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HEAU Hockey Legends #2
Redeeming the Villain
Alora Briarwood is impeccably good at faking a smile. She’s been doing it her entire life as a politician’s daughter. But after taking a year off after high school and gaining the confidence to make her own decisions, she’s finally ready to focus on her music at Happily Ever After University with her service dog, Sunny, at her side.Malik Ravenwell, known for being malicious on and off the ice, has proven he’s right where he belongs—as one of the top forwards in collegiate hockey. He spent this last year locking up his old skeletons and throwing away the key, not willing to let anything or anyone get in the way of his newfound happiness.
When Malik strolls into Alora’s dorm room by accident, a fiery confrontation ignites. After all, Malik’s mission in high school was to make Alora’s life a living hell. But she isn’t shying away from his scowl or backing down from his threats anymore.
When long-buried and twisted secrets begin to surface, they realize their pasts are far more intertwined than they ever could have imagined. It doesn’t matter how much they hate one another, they’re drawn together as if an invisible string tethers their souls. When the castle crumbles and the facade they once believed fades away, their connection may be the only thing left to save them from succumbing to the ghosts of their past.
Sleeping beauty retelling meets college hockey romance.
When Malik strolls into Alora’s dorm room by accident, a fiery confrontation ignites. After all, Malik’s mission in high school was to make Alora’s life a living hell. But she isn’t shying away from his scowl or backing down from his threats anymore.
When long-buried and twisted secrets begin to surface, they realize their pasts are far more intertwined than they ever could have imagined. It doesn’t matter how much they hate one another, they’re drawn together as if an invisible string tethers their souls. When the castle crumbles and the facade they once believed fades away, their connection may be the only thing left to save them from succumbing to the ghosts of their past.
Sleeping beauty retelling meets college hockey romance.
512 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 24, 2025
86 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
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June 2, 2025
“𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐈 𝐰𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐮𝐩 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐟¥£𝐤 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝? 𝐓𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐦𝐞, 𝐀𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐚. 𝐈 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮.”
A modern twist on a classic favorite. This modern day sleeping beauty retelling with darker undertones and a gorgeous, broken hockey god?? I’m sold!! This book was so good. So heartbreaking. I think I experienced every emotion reading this book. I felt emotionally drained after.
Alora is our sweet, kind hearted FMC. She’s lived her life under the control of her father. Never allowed to truly explore who she is or even wants to be. Stuck in box to follow the line her father set for her. She’s the ultimate people pleaser…afraid to cross the line so she follows along to not make waves. She has POTs which puts a strain on her ability to do things but with the help of her best friend and service dog, Sunny, she’s able to find peace and comfort. She takes a gap year off before transferring to college and when she gets there she’s met with the face of her high school bully.
Malik is our dark, mysterious and broody MMC. He’s popular and a hockey player god. He keeps his walls high and locked tight. But…the truth is…he’s a broken boy. Trauma and pain from his past have turned him cold…creating a rage in him that only seems to grow as time passes. The target of his anger and wrath is Alora. Secrets , lies and deceit plague him…making her the object of his hatred. He’s been her bully since high school, making her life even more of a living hell than it already was.
Beneath all the hatred and pain though, is an undeniable pull towards each other that has always been there. But the hatred between the two stops things from ever evolving. Alora isn’t the same girl Malik bullied in high school…and she refuses to be his emotional punching bag anymore…standing up for herself and shocking Malik in the process.
I’ll be honest…I hated Malik in the beginning. I could not understand his hatred for someone as sweet as Alora. And I think that’s how Pru wanted it. She wanted us to feel that anger and confusion towards him…because when she finally revealed his reasons for his actions…the pain and torment behind his anger…all we could was cry for him. He went through hell. He was so broken…carrying the weight of the world…secrets and lies…all on his shoulders from a young kid. Does it excuse his behaviour? No. But you understand why he did what he did…how his trauma and pain clouded his reasoning.
These two start to communicate more. Their hate making way for their real feelings. I loved seeing Alora breaking down Maliks walls. The way she loved him despite the pain he caused her and understood his darkness. Malik loved her so fiercely…he was possessive and almost obsessed with her…he learned all about her health issues…making sure to be able to take care of her and understand her needs.
I loved seeing Alora blossom into the woman she was always meant to be. Standing up for herself against her father and making sure he understood that he didn’t control her life anymore. It was such an empowering moment and I was so proud of her.
Now…the SPICE!!! Malik is pure filth. He channeled that hate into every encounter and I was HERE FOR IT! This man was everything I wanted and needed. Hot…unhinged…psychotic and obsessive in all the ways you want and need him to be. Alora was his and he WORSHIPED HER! There was no debating or hesitating when he finally came clean about his feelings. She was his and always would be…whether she wanted it or not 🫠🫠🫠
Everything about this book was perfection. The pain, the HEARTBREAKING ROMANCE…the push and pull…the way they both came together to heal each other and find their way out of the darkness by each others side. And of course…the hockey was spot on in a way that only Pru can do! I need more of this series ASAP!!! 🩷
Thank you SO MUCH to Pru Schuyler for allowing me to ARC read this masterpiece 🩷🩷
🏒College Hockey Romance
🎵Bully Romance
🏒Sleeping Beauty Vibes
🎵POTS Rep
🏒Found Family
🎵Hidden Trauma
🏒Broken MMC
🎵Strong FMC
🏒Alpha/Protective MMC
🎵Service Dog
🏒FILTHY Mouth
🎵Enemies to Lovers
🏒Grief Rep
🎵Boy Obsessed
🏒Rich Girl x Poor Boy
🎵Redemption Arc
🏒Hockey Player x Pianist
🎵Secrets & Lies
🏒Family Trauma
🎵Dual POV
🏒HEA
A modern twist on a classic favorite. This modern day sleeping beauty retelling with darker undertones and a gorgeous, broken hockey god?? I’m sold!! This book was so good. So heartbreaking. I think I experienced every emotion reading this book. I felt emotionally drained after.
Alora is our sweet, kind hearted FMC. She’s lived her life under the control of her father. Never allowed to truly explore who she is or even wants to be. Stuck in box to follow the line her father set for her. She’s the ultimate people pleaser…afraid to cross the line so she follows along to not make waves. She has POTs which puts a strain on her ability to do things but with the help of her best friend and service dog, Sunny, she’s able to find peace and comfort. She takes a gap year off before transferring to college and when she gets there she’s met with the face of her high school bully.
Malik is our dark, mysterious and broody MMC. He’s popular and a hockey player god. He keeps his walls high and locked tight. But…the truth is…he’s a broken boy. Trauma and pain from his past have turned him cold…creating a rage in him that only seems to grow as time passes. The target of his anger and wrath is Alora. Secrets , lies and deceit plague him…making her the object of his hatred. He’s been her bully since high school, making her life even more of a living hell than it already was.
Beneath all the hatred and pain though, is an undeniable pull towards each other that has always been there. But the hatred between the two stops things from ever evolving. Alora isn’t the same girl Malik bullied in high school…and she refuses to be his emotional punching bag anymore…standing up for herself and shocking Malik in the process.
I’ll be honest…I hated Malik in the beginning. I could not understand his hatred for someone as sweet as Alora. And I think that’s how Pru wanted it. She wanted us to feel that anger and confusion towards him…because when she finally revealed his reasons for his actions…the pain and torment behind his anger…all we could was cry for him. He went through hell. He was so broken…carrying the weight of the world…secrets and lies…all on his shoulders from a young kid. Does it excuse his behaviour? No. But you understand why he did what he did…how his trauma and pain clouded his reasoning.
These two start to communicate more. Their hate making way for their real feelings. I loved seeing Alora breaking down Maliks walls. The way she loved him despite the pain he caused her and understood his darkness. Malik loved her so fiercely…he was possessive and almost obsessed with her…he learned all about her health issues…making sure to be able to take care of her and understand her needs.
I loved seeing Alora blossom into the woman she was always meant to be. Standing up for herself against her father and making sure he understood that he didn’t control her life anymore. It was such an empowering moment and I was so proud of her.
Now…the SPICE!!! Malik is pure filth. He channeled that hate into every encounter and I was HERE FOR IT! This man was everything I wanted and needed. Hot…unhinged…psychotic and obsessive in all the ways you want and need him to be. Alora was his and he WORSHIPED HER! There was no debating or hesitating when he finally came clean about his feelings. She was his and always would be…whether she wanted it or not 🫠🫠🫠
Everything about this book was perfection. The pain, the HEARTBREAKING ROMANCE…the push and pull…the way they both came together to heal each other and find their way out of the darkness by each others side. And of course…the hockey was spot on in a way that only Pru can do! I need more of this series ASAP!!! 🩷
Thank you SO MUCH to Pru Schuyler for allowing me to ARC read this masterpiece 🩷🩷
🏒College Hockey Romance
🎵Bully Romance
🏒Sleeping Beauty Vibes
🎵POTS Rep
🏒Found Family
🎵Hidden Trauma
🏒Broken MMC
🎵Strong FMC
🏒Alpha/Protective MMC
🎵Service Dog
🏒FILTHY Mouth
🎵Enemies to Lovers
🏒Grief Rep
🎵Boy Obsessed
🏒Rich Girl x Poor Boy
🎵Redemption Arc
🏒Hockey Player x Pianist
🎵Secrets & Lies
🏒Family Trauma
🎵Dual POV
🏒HEA
May 23, 2025
Oh, this baby deserves more than 5! This was a 10 star read!
Malik pls stop, I can’t highlight everything!
But maybe, once upon a dream, she's mine, a part of my story that was always inevitable.
Did I stay up till 6 AM reading this bad boy because I couldn’t put it down? Damn right I did!
This fucking book guys! I never thought I’d fall for a bully so fast, but this man was the perfect tortured, obsessed man I needed. And the mouth on this man…good lord! Weak in the knees, panties gone, and legs wide open (lmao). He was filthy and perfect.
My girl Alora, you are one brave woman! Her growth and strength were beautiful to watch. How well explained and portrayed POTS was, also made me love it. She found herself away from her father, and her character shined. Her fighting back and standing up for herself was necessary, and a beauty to witness, people DO need to be slapped around sometimes.
This was ROMANCE. The longing, the angst, the “hate to love you but can’t hate you”, the small connections, the hidden feelings, the crazy fateful coincidences that feel more like destiny than anything else…perfection. This gave me all the feels and made me happy and hopeful for love. I love Malik and Alora to pieces.
I also love Blair. She was so caring, understanding and immediately kind. I liked how, even while being friends with Malik and still having his back, knowing he’s not a bad guy, she always saw Alora’s side and understood that Malik was being shitty to Alora, never once did she try to excuse his behavior or downplay it. She’s a real one and I loved her.
Pru, I know I already told you, because I bombarded your DMs as I read, but you wrote an incredible book, and I’m so lucky I got the opportunity to read it as an ARC.
(I’m aware 30 quotes is crazy work…but just say Thank You and read the book, you won’t regret it. Also, be thankful (or sad) that I restrained myself and didn’t put everything I highlighted here.)
Quotes:
Malik Ravenwell. A name I will never forget, no matter how hard I try.
I'm not a princess locked in a tower, waiting to be saved by some honorable prince. I wield the sword and slay the dragon myself.
Alora was always the object of my obsession, sitting at the center of everything I did back then. Even before I learned her last name.
But I'm a mess when it comes to her. Uncontrollable and raw.
"If it were easy, everyone would have it. Love can be messy, especially when it's with someone you care deeply about. Sometimes, the pieces don't fit perfectly right away; they need some shaping. But if you're willing to try, it's always worth it, if it's meant to be."
I can't imagine how perfect her bare body is. Those luscious curves. Fuck, I want to taste them, devour them. I want to know exactly what it's like to feel her thighs wrap around my neck. To hear what she sounds like, coming apart by my touch. I need it. I need her.
"Don't worry, Bug. I won't choke you until you ask me to."
How can I want someone so badly and loathe them at the same time? Make it make sense.
"I've tried to forget you. Over and over, I have tried. Endlessly. And I've failed every single time.
I don't know how to navigate the growing urge to make her smile rather than frown.
"I'm not tired. I need you."
Let her find happiness with that guy. But I couldn't, not when she already belonged to me.
"Tell me how much you hate me when I bury my face between your legs."
My eyes fall to the length of her neck, adorned with my new favorite necklace ... my hand.
Taking the black lace between my teeth, I look up at her lust-blown eyes and ease them down.
I want to get lost in her, bury myself so deep inside of her that she forgets what it feels like without me.
Using my thumb, I open her parted lips further, lining her mouth up below mine before spitting down between her parted lips.
“But I'm done pretending like I don't want you. Because I do, more than I want to fucking live."
"I just protect what's mine. I won't survive losing another person close to me."
"You think I won't stay up here with you and say fuck the rest of the world? Test me, Alora. I dare you."
It might seem crazy and soon, but I don't fucking care. She's it for me; I'm done. It's her or no one.
"The ways I've imagined burying myself so deep inside of you that you forget you ever hated me. You've haunted me for years, for far longer than you'll ever know."
"I'm obsessed with you. You consume every thought in my goddamn head. Isn't it clear, baby? I'm yours just as much as you're mine."
“Don't you dare stay quiet. I own your every moan, whimper, and cry. Give them all to me.”
Not a drop of doubt is in her tone or her body. She believes me. She really believes me
"Fucking hell, Alora. That ass of yours will be my goddamn ruin."
Because of every little moment leading up to this, I stand in the arms of the redeemed villain, in a castle free of curses and thorns, in a love story that is no one else's but our own.
Malik pls stop, I can’t highlight everything!
But maybe, once upon a dream, she's mine, a part of my story that was always inevitable.
Did I stay up till 6 AM reading this bad boy because I couldn’t put it down? Damn right I did!
This fucking book guys! I never thought I’d fall for a bully so fast, but this man was the perfect tortured, obsessed man I needed. And the mouth on this man…good lord! Weak in the knees, panties gone, and legs wide open (lmao). He was filthy and perfect.
My girl Alora, you are one brave woman! Her growth and strength were beautiful to watch. How well explained and portrayed POTS was, also made me love it. She found herself away from her father, and her character shined. Her fighting back and standing up for herself was necessary, and a beauty to witness, people DO need to be slapped around sometimes.
This was ROMANCE. The longing, the angst, the “hate to love you but can’t hate you”, the small connections, the hidden feelings, the crazy fateful coincidences that feel more like destiny than anything else…perfection. This gave me all the feels and made me happy and hopeful for love. I love Malik and Alora to pieces.
I also love Blair. She was so caring, understanding and immediately kind. I liked how, even while being friends with Malik and still having his back, knowing he’s not a bad guy, she always saw Alora’s side and understood that Malik was being shitty to Alora, never once did she try to excuse his behavior or downplay it. She’s a real one and I loved her.
Pru, I know I already told you, because I bombarded your DMs as I read, but you wrote an incredible book, and I’m so lucky I got the opportunity to read it as an ARC.
(I’m aware 30 quotes is crazy work…but just say Thank You and read the book, you won’t regret it. Also, be thankful (or sad) that I restrained myself and didn’t put everything I highlighted here.)
Quotes:
Malik Ravenwell. A name I will never forget, no matter how hard I try.
I'm not a princess locked in a tower, waiting to be saved by some honorable prince. I wield the sword and slay the dragon myself.
Alora was always the object of my obsession, sitting at the center of everything I did back then. Even before I learned her last name.
But I'm a mess when it comes to her. Uncontrollable and raw.
"If it were easy, everyone would have it. Love can be messy, especially when it's with someone you care deeply about. Sometimes, the pieces don't fit perfectly right away; they need some shaping. But if you're willing to try, it's always worth it, if it's meant to be."
I can't imagine how perfect her bare body is. Those luscious curves. Fuck, I want to taste them, devour them. I want to know exactly what it's like to feel her thighs wrap around my neck. To hear what she sounds like, coming apart by my touch. I need it. I need her.
"Don't worry, Bug. I won't choke you until you ask me to."
How can I want someone so badly and loathe them at the same time? Make it make sense.
"I've tried to forget you. Over and over, I have tried. Endlessly. And I've failed every single time.
I don't know how to navigate the growing urge to make her smile rather than frown.
"I'm not tired. I need you."
Let her find happiness with that guy. But I couldn't, not when she already belonged to me.
"Tell me how much you hate me when I bury my face between your legs."
My eyes fall to the length of her neck, adorned with my new favorite necklace ... my hand.
Taking the black lace between my teeth, I look up at her lust-blown eyes and ease them down.
I want to get lost in her, bury myself so deep inside of her that she forgets what it feels like without me.
Using my thumb, I open her parted lips further, lining her mouth up below mine before spitting down between her parted lips.
“But I'm done pretending like I don't want you. Because I do, more than I want to fucking live."
"I just protect what's mine. I won't survive losing another person close to me."
"You think I won't stay up here with you and say fuck the rest of the world? Test me, Alora. I dare you."
It might seem crazy and soon, but I don't fucking care. She's it for me; I'm done. It's her or no one.
"The ways I've imagined burying myself so deep inside of you that you forget you ever hated me. You've haunted me for years, for far longer than you'll ever know."
"I'm obsessed with you. You consume every thought in my goddamn head. Isn't it clear, baby? I'm yours just as much as you're mine."
“Don't you dare stay quiet. I own your every moan, whimper, and cry. Give them all to me.”
Not a drop of doubt is in her tone or her body. She believes me. She really believes me
"Fucking hell, Alora. That ass of yours will be my goddamn ruin."
Because of every little moment leading up to this, I stand in the arms of the redeemed villain, in a castle free of curses and thorns, in a love story that is no one else's but our own.
May 24, 2025
5 ⭐️
This one hurt in the best way. Malik was an absolute a-hole for a solid 50% of this book and I hated him accordingly … until it became apparent why he was the way he was. Heartbreaking to say the least.
Alora on the other hand had my heart from the beginning. She’s been through hell … between Malik’s past torment and her father’s control and watching her finally stand up for herself felt so satisfying. That girl deserved the world and a thousand soft hugs.
The dynamic between them is complicated, messy, and somehow beautiful. Once they actually connect, it’s heartbreakingly perfect. I’m not usually a bully romance fan but this one felt different. There’s a reason behind Malik’s cruelty and healing that doesn’t happen instantly or easily.
Also: that final scene with her dad? Gut punch. But necessary. Definitely glad I read it and would recommend to others too but check the trigger warnings first.
This one hurt in the best way. Malik was an absolute a-hole for a solid 50% of this book and I hated him accordingly … until it became apparent why he was the way he was. Heartbreaking to say the least.
Alora on the other hand had my heart from the beginning. She’s been through hell … between Malik’s past torment and her father’s control and watching her finally stand up for herself felt so satisfying. That girl deserved the world and a thousand soft hugs.
The dynamic between them is complicated, messy, and somehow beautiful. Once they actually connect, it’s heartbreakingly perfect. I’m not usually a bully romance fan but this one felt different. There’s a reason behind Malik’s cruelty and healing that doesn’t happen instantly or easily.
Also: that final scene with her dad? Gut punch. But necessary. Definitely glad I read it and would recommend to others too but check the trigger warnings first.
May 23, 2025
This Book!! This book! I literally could not leave it until I finished it! It was so good and I just absolutely love this series so far. The storybook aspect is still so amazing even if it wasn’t as on the nose as the last book!
Malik is just the type of guy you love to hate especially when he’s being a jerk! I did just want to wrung his neck when he wouldn’t let the connection he has with Alora was off the charts! My heart broke for him in this book by learning about his past and I’m glad that he has Alora! I loved that even when Malik said he hated Alora, the audience could see it was the complete opposite.
Alora the strong girl that you are! I loved the representation of POTS in this book and the way that it was written was incredible. Also with the aspect of the SA was written and how it was dealt with. I adored that Alora forgave Malik with what had happened in the past and saw the good in him. She saw past his mask and I loved seeing them go from enemies to lovers!
The found family in this series just makes me fall more in love with it the more books we get. I absolutely adored this book and cannot wait to see who the next book is about! This is a definite must read and I cannot wait to get the physical copy in my hands!
Malik is just the type of guy you love to hate especially when he’s being a jerk! I did just want to wrung his neck when he wouldn’t let the connection he has with Alora was off the charts! My heart broke for him in this book by learning about his past and I’m glad that he has Alora! I loved that even when Malik said he hated Alora, the audience could see it was the complete opposite.
Alora the strong girl that you are! I loved the representation of POTS in this book and the way that it was written was incredible. Also with the aspect of the SA was written and how it was dealt with. I adored that Alora forgave Malik with what had happened in the past and saw the good in him. She saw past his mask and I loved seeing them go from enemies to lovers!
The found family in this series just makes me fall more in love with it the more books we get. I absolutely adored this book and cannot wait to see who the next book is about! This is a definite must read and I cannot wait to get the physical copy in my hands!
December 10, 2025
2.5⭐/2.75⭐
Not having internet really makes me read anything
Not having internet really makes me read anything
May 25, 2025
I was so lucky to receive this as an ARC! It was 5 stars for me; i absolutely loved this book!!
Tropes:
Bully
Hate to love
POTS representation
Hockey player
Pianists
Enemies to lovers
I had so many emotions laughing, mad,and bawling like a damn baby!! I l feel in love with Malik! Was a a bully yes, but He was so consumed with grief and revenge, and hiding behind walls so high! I also love Alora! She was the exact thing he needed even though his denial was strong! She balanced him out, and they were perfect for each other! Gotta love that hate to love trope ☺️ She was also battling her own struggles with POTS, and navigating this diagnosis the best she could! Again, Malik was wait she needed and could lean on him on the hard days, and Sunny her cutest support dog! I would recommend this series to anyone!!
Tropes:
Bully
Hate to love
POTS representation
Hockey player
Pianists
Enemies to lovers
I had so many emotions laughing, mad,and bawling like a damn baby!! I l feel in love with Malik! Was a a bully yes, but He was so consumed with grief and revenge, and hiding behind walls so high! I also love Alora! She was the exact thing he needed even though his denial was strong! She balanced him out, and they were perfect for each other! Gotta love that hate to love trope ☺️ She was also battling her own struggles with POTS, and navigating this diagnosis the best she could! Again, Malik was wait she needed and could lean on him on the hard days, and Sunny her cutest support dog! I would recommend this series to anyone!!
June 6, 2025
Y’all this was insane. He bullies her for YEARS and one day they wake up and realize that they wanna fuck. THE END. The plot was all over the place and there was a lot of telling rather than showing. I did not see a lot of love between them, simply lust and obsession. The writing really didn’t work for me either with a lot of long paragraphs of inner monologue. Overall NO.
May 30, 2025
4.5⭐ 2.5🌶️
I am a huge fan of Pru Schuylers writing and was really excited for this book and it didn't disappoint! I thoroughly enjoyed the journey it took me on.
This book follows Alora and Malik, Alora has just transferred to the Happily Ever After University after a gap year to find herself and move past the traumas of her teenage years. Malik is one of the campus' hockey heros, has a powerful presence but on the inside is broken from more trauma than one boy should have lived through but is also the villain in Alora story as he was her bully in high school!
Alora is a beautifully written character who has POTS, a serious but hidden illness and her best friend is her service dog Sunny, she has been suppressed and asked to blend in her whole life not really having much freedom to be her true self or follow her passions. The way her character grows throughout the book was beautiful to read and the depth in which her POTS was written was fantastic and Pru really represented this in the book, I will admit that I hadn't heard of it but felt I learnt a great deal about it throughout the book and I applaud the care taken and the detail used.
Malik is a broken boy and the more you learn about him the more you understand why he is the way he is and again his character growth through the book was fantastically written. He is the ultimate alpha male and becomes the ultimate protector.
I love that in all Pru's sports romances the sport isn't just a background point and there is also some hockey content involved. The found family gained more depth in this book as well and became stronger promising some really great books and characters to come. The little sleeping beauty references were cute and brought such a fun element to the book which was nice because this book was raw and emotional at times, I shed a few tears but it ended beautifully ❤️
🏒 Bully Romance
🎹 Sports Romance
🏒 POTS representation
🎹 Found Family
🏒 Spice
🎹 Service Dog
🏒 Alpha Protective MMC
🎹 Strong FMC
🏒 Hidden Trauma
There are some trigger warnings, please read them!
This was an ARC review that I wrote willingly.
I am a huge fan of Pru Schuylers writing and was really excited for this book and it didn't disappoint! I thoroughly enjoyed the journey it took me on.
This book follows Alora and Malik, Alora has just transferred to the Happily Ever After University after a gap year to find herself and move past the traumas of her teenage years. Malik is one of the campus' hockey heros, has a powerful presence but on the inside is broken from more trauma than one boy should have lived through but is also the villain in Alora story as he was her bully in high school!
Alora is a beautifully written character who has POTS, a serious but hidden illness and her best friend is her service dog Sunny, she has been suppressed and asked to blend in her whole life not really having much freedom to be her true self or follow her passions. The way her character grows throughout the book was beautiful to read and the depth in which her POTS was written was fantastic and Pru really represented this in the book, I will admit that I hadn't heard of it but felt I learnt a great deal about it throughout the book and I applaud the care taken and the detail used.
Malik is a broken boy and the more you learn about him the more you understand why he is the way he is and again his character growth through the book was fantastically written. He is the ultimate alpha male and becomes the ultimate protector.
I love that in all Pru's sports romances the sport isn't just a background point and there is also some hockey content involved. The found family gained more depth in this book as well and became stronger promising some really great books and characters to come. The little sleeping beauty references were cute and brought such a fun element to the book which was nice because this book was raw and emotional at times, I shed a few tears but it ended beautifully ❤️
🏒 Bully Romance
🎹 Sports Romance
🏒 POTS representation
🎹 Found Family
🏒 Spice
🎹 Service Dog
🏒 Alpha Protective MMC
🎹 Strong FMC
🏒 Hidden Trauma
There are some trigger warnings, please read them!
This was an ARC review that I wrote willingly.
May 24, 2025
Redeeming The Villain by Pru Schuyler
👑Enemies To Lovers
🏒Hockey Romance
👑POTS Rep.
🏒Grief Rep.
👑Modern Retelling of Sleeping Beauty
🏒Possessive & Obsessive MMC
My Rating: 1000/10💫
This may very well be one of my favorite books I’ve read this year! I mean, it had my attention immediately because Aurora has always been my favorite Disney princess with Sleeping Beauty being my favorite Disney movie and man did this book exceed my expectations. I mean Pru did an amazing job at building a modern fairytale world and I am so thankful that I was able to read this book before it was released to the world. Malik was perfect (lowkey put the hot in psychotic tho). And Alora was an amazing character to read because she had her princessy moments but still had a backbone and could hold her own. Also, I want my own Sunny because she sounds adorable and like the most well behaved dog ever. I also think that Pru did really well when it came to not only describing Grief but also describing POTS. I had actually never read a book with a character who had POTS before so I love how Pru took the time to explain what POTS is and give clarification on things while still keeping the same illustrative feel to the book. Overall, this is a book that I highly reccomend to any romance reader because it was just that good!
Redeeming The Villain Out Now!
👑Enemies To Lovers
🏒Hockey Romance
👑POTS Rep.
🏒Grief Rep.
👑Modern Retelling of Sleeping Beauty
🏒Possessive & Obsessive MMC
My Rating: 1000/10💫
This may very well be one of my favorite books I’ve read this year! I mean, it had my attention immediately because Aurora has always been my favorite Disney princess with Sleeping Beauty being my favorite Disney movie and man did this book exceed my expectations. I mean Pru did an amazing job at building a modern fairytale world and I am so thankful that I was able to read this book before it was released to the world. Malik was perfect (lowkey put the hot in psychotic tho). And Alora was an amazing character to read because she had her princessy moments but still had a backbone and could hold her own. Also, I want my own Sunny because she sounds adorable and like the most well behaved dog ever. I also think that Pru did really well when it came to not only describing Grief but also describing POTS. I had actually never read a book with a character who had POTS before so I love how Pru took the time to explain what POTS is and give clarification on things while still keeping the same illustrative feel to the book. Overall, this is a book that I highly reccomend to any romance reader because it was just that good!
Redeeming The Villain Out Now!
May 27, 2025
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️
OH. MY. LANTA…. This book was absolutely stunning from beginning to end! A work of art… it will leave you breathless and feeling everything, anger, love, tears of sadness and joy and every emotion in between while you try to flip pages as fast as you can and as slow as you can to savor this amazing book! And if all of that doesn’t say it, then let me say that I loved every moment of this book! I loved Alora and her quiet strength, her trusting demeanor even if it meant she might get hurt, her determination to be positive even if it wasn’t always easy and of course her love for Sunny! As for Malik… just add him straight to the top of the book boyfriend list because while he may have started out Aloras enemy it was clear that while he may have been a pessimist and only willing to let a few people even close to his heart that when he loved someone he loved them fiercely, loyally and forever. So if you’re looking for a truly beautifully written book full of amazing characters, banter and snark, so much romance, all the emotions, a found family that’s loyal to a fault, the cutest service dog companion, a scoop of drama, a sprinkling of spice, and a happily ever after that’ll have you in tears than be sure to add a copy of Redeeming the Villain today!
HAPPY READING 📖
Spice:🌶️🌶️
OH. MY. LANTA…. This book was absolutely stunning from beginning to end! A work of art… it will leave you breathless and feeling everything, anger, love, tears of sadness and joy and every emotion in between while you try to flip pages as fast as you can and as slow as you can to savor this amazing book! And if all of that doesn’t say it, then let me say that I loved every moment of this book! I loved Alora and her quiet strength, her trusting demeanor even if it meant she might get hurt, her determination to be positive even if it wasn’t always easy and of course her love for Sunny! As for Malik… just add him straight to the top of the book boyfriend list because while he may have started out Aloras enemy it was clear that while he may have been a pessimist and only willing to let a few people even close to his heart that when he loved someone he loved them fiercely, loyally and forever. So if you’re looking for a truly beautifully written book full of amazing characters, banter and snark, so much romance, all the emotions, a found family that’s loyal to a fault, the cutest service dog companion, a scoop of drama, a sprinkling of spice, and a happily ever after that’ll have you in tears than be sure to add a copy of Redeeming the Villain today!
HAPPY READING 📖
May 29, 2025
I was obsessed with the first book in this series, so getting my hands on an e-ARC of this one? I died. And let me tell you—it did not disappoint. I am so deeply in love with this series it's not even funny.
Set in the incredibly immersive HEAU world Pru has crafted, this story is a loose fairy tale retelling—but make it angsty, emotional, and oh-so-intense. From page one, I was hooked. We're talking found family vibes, heartbreak, grief, yearning, and a deliciously messy “hate that I love you” dynamic between Alora and Malik that wrecked me in the best way
Their relationship? Complicated. Messy. But somehow it is still tender and beautiful. Malik is your classic broody, possessive, “touch her and die” hockey player, and I mean…who can resist that?!
Also, major props for the POTS chronic illness rep—it was done with care and authenticity, and it added such an important layer to Alora’s character.
It's a slow burn (yes, the delicious kind), and when the tension finally breaks? Let’s just say the open door spice had me kicking my feet and grinning like a fool.
This book had me feeling everything—my heart ached, my fingers tingled, and I already can't wait to reread it. If you love your romance angsty, your characters layered, and your HEA served with a touch of redemption, this one’s for you.
Set in the incredibly immersive HEAU world Pru has crafted, this story is a loose fairy tale retelling—but make it angsty, emotional, and oh-so-intense. From page one, I was hooked. We're talking found family vibes, heartbreak, grief, yearning, and a deliciously messy “hate that I love you” dynamic between Alora and Malik that wrecked me in the best way
Their relationship? Complicated. Messy. But somehow it is still tender and beautiful. Malik is your classic broody, possessive, “touch her and die” hockey player, and I mean…who can resist that?!
Also, major props for the POTS chronic illness rep—it was done with care and authenticity, and it added such an important layer to Alora’s character.
It's a slow burn (yes, the delicious kind), and when the tension finally breaks? Let’s just say the open door spice had me kicking my feet and grinning like a fool.
This book had me feeling everything—my heart ached, my fingers tingled, and I already can't wait to reread it. If you love your romance angsty, your characters layered, and your HEA served with a touch of redemption, this one’s for you.
May 24, 2025
Thank You to Pru for the ARC.
This book, what can I say? I loved it, couldn't stop reading it, and couldn't help falling for Malik and Alora's chemistry. These two characters were just perfect. Their relationship had everything, tension, angst, and some spicy moments.
Malik was a complicated character who was still dealing with the grief and anger that came from losing his brother in an accident that was covered up by his uncle, who was a real villain. Other circumstances also result in Malik treating Alora as an enemy following her dads involvement in the accident. Alora is dealing with our own health issues, and the way Malik treats her has some impact on her health, but neither seem to be able to stop thinking about the other. This book was so good, I enjoyed how the relationship developed throughout the book and how initial impressions are proved false. I love how Alora gained the strength to stand up for herself and prove that she is a strong woman.
This book, what can I say? I loved it, couldn't stop reading it, and couldn't help falling for Malik and Alora's chemistry. These two characters were just perfect. Their relationship had everything, tension, angst, and some spicy moments.
Malik was a complicated character who was still dealing with the grief and anger that came from losing his brother in an accident that was covered up by his uncle, who was a real villain. Other circumstances also result in Malik treating Alora as an enemy following her dads involvement in the accident. Alora is dealing with our own health issues, and the way Malik treats her has some impact on her health, but neither seem to be able to stop thinking about the other. This book was so good, I enjoyed how the relationship developed throughout the book and how initial impressions are proved false. I love how Alora gained the strength to stand up for herself and prove that she is a strong woman.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
I had to take a few days to get my thoughts together because this book was intense on the feelings. Seriously grab a box of tissues because I was crying. Not surprising because every book I’ve read from Pru has me in tears but I also just kinda am surprised at the same time. Weird I know.
Ugh you really just want to not like Malik. You really do but when you know his past it’s like you just can’t. Alora 1000% did not deserve what he did to her but you understand why. Doesn’t make it right but I think you get what I’m saying. Seeing how he changed towards her was sweet. Alora’s dynamic with her father made me also cry at the end. She really was a kind soul. Did she really need to forgive Malik for everything he’s done? Debatable. It was just so good. I devoured it & it was hard to put down.
Ugh you really just want to not like Malik. You really do but when you know his past it’s like you just can’t. Alora 1000% did not deserve what he did to her but you understand why. Doesn’t make it right but I think you get what I’m saying. Seeing how he changed towards her was sweet. Alora’s dynamic with her father made me also cry at the end. She really was a kind soul. Did she really need to forgive Malik for everything he’s done? Debatable. It was just so good. I devoured it & it was hard to put down.
July 24, 2025
Malik and Alora’s story is a unique one! From bully/hate to love- it was a wild ride. If you don’t enjoy bully romance, I’d maybe skip this one. BUT I feel like Pru wrote this one great and that the HEA definitely makes up for the not so pretty parts of Malik and Alora’s story! There’s tons of emotion and trauma, but as time goes on you get to see Malik work towards resolving his grief with Alora (and Sunny) right beside him. I loved the POTS rep and loved getting to see the way Alora learned to adapt with her illness. I loved Sunny, her service dog, and think she brought some definite sunshine into her life when she needed it most. The corruptness of Alora’s father and how he played a part in everything definitely made it interesting and had me not wanting to stop reading!
August 5, 2025
I finally finished this book, and unfortunately, I still feel the same way: it's boring, slow, and overly repetitive. If the main characters had communicated at least a little, the story could have been resolved in three chapters. Instead, it drags unnecessarily with constant back-and-forth that drags on.
What bothered me most was the ending: rushed and pointless. The supposed plot twist is obvious from the start, which diminishes its impact, and in the end, everything is resolved in the most ridiculous way possible.
As for the characters… Malik is insufferable from the start. Eventually, you try to empathize with him, but his lack of communication is so frustrating that it's incredibly difficult. He claims to hate Alora, but never explains why. He treats her badly, then gets jealous, hurts her again, and never gives a clear reason
And Alora… you may or may not like him. Sometimes his complaints seem too superficial. I was particularly bothered by the fact that, at the end, he felt empathy for his father. I understand that he's his father, but 💀
Anyway, a book with an interesting idea, but a boring and even ridiculous plot.
What bothered me most was the ending: rushed and pointless. The supposed plot twist is obvious from the start, which diminishes its impact, and in the end, everything is resolved in the most ridiculous way possible.
As for the characters… Malik is insufferable from the start. Eventually, you try to empathize with him, but his lack of communication is so frustrating that it's incredibly difficult. He claims to hate Alora, but never explains why. He treats her badly, then gets jealous, hurts her again, and never gives a clear reason
And Alora… you may or may not like him. Sometimes his complaints seem too superficial. I was particularly bothered by the fact that, at the end, he felt empathy for his father. I understand that he's his father, but 💀
Anyway, a book with an interesting idea, but a boring and even ridiculous plot.
June 1, 2025
Another beautiful and heartfelt story told. It had me in the feels most of the way through it and the representation was brilliant. I loved it with my whole heart 💖 Malik and Alora's story is one certainly to last forever
June 19, 2025
This was written like a wattpad story in the worst way possible. The way there was absolutely no development of the fmc and mmc relationship. It was I hate you, I kinda want to kiss you, kiss you, hate you, now I’m in love. Maybe “bully” romances aren’t my thing, either way don’t recommend.
June 8, 2025
📖Book Review📖
Redeeming the Villain
This is the second book in the HEAU University series and OMG I loved it, I’m so happy to be back at HEAU university.
The story was great and I was addicted from the start, I loved the sleeping beauty retelling of the story and felt it was done very well. Malik and Alora were so cute together them and their banter and how they went from serious enemies to lovers was just ✨Chefs kiss 😘✨
I could tell from the start of the book that Malik was going to fall HARD for Alora, I mean come on “I tried not to smell her strawberry and vanilla perfume but couldn’t help it” that man was a simp for her and I ate up every second of that and this book.
I think the POTS Representation was very important and well done in the book, I like when books have health/mental health reps as I feel it will bring more awareness to that illness.
Another part of the story that I found really enjoyable to read was the fact that Pru showed Maliks journey with grief and how he coped with it, also that it’s ok for men/boys to cry and to not feel ashamed about it. I felt that was a really important message in the story.
I can’t lie there was a second where I was thinking wow Malik is a bit too mean but then Alora came back fighting and I was so here for it. With it being a bully romance I thought I wouldn’t like it as much as I did but I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I’m definitely adding it to my favourites of all time. As I read on I could see Malik was just hurting and lashing out at others to protect himself from being hurt again. Alora was the perfect person for him, like yin and yang, light and dark.
The switch from Malik hating Alora to falling for her was pretty abrupt and I find when that happens in books it usually puts me off and I end up dnfing the book, this kind of did but also didn’t in a way because I could see there was underlying trauma and issues between the two that would explain the past hate.
I genuinely loved this book and can’t wait for the rest of the series. I’m secretly but not so secretly hoping a Cinderella retelling will be next 😂
This series by Pru combines both my love of spicy hockey romance and Disney princess retellings. I 100000000000% recommend you start this series NOW, it’s amazing and you won’t regret it.
Tropes
🩷College Hockey romance
✨Enemies to lovers
🩷Bully romance
✨He was her high school bully
🩷Interconnected pasts
✨”Always been you”
🩷College hockey
✨Sleeping beauty retelling
🩷Family trauma
✨POTS representation
🩷Hate to love
✨Hockey player x pianist
🩷Castle campus setting
✨Star crossed lovers
🩷Twisted secrets
✨Dual POV
🩷Possessive MMC
✨Forbidden romance
🩷Congressman’s daughter
✨Service dog
🩷Nobody touches her but me
✨Secret obsession/pining
🩷Rich girl x poor boy
✨Elite university
🩷He falls first
✨Found family
🩷No 3rd act break up
✨HEA (happily ever after) 🥹🩷
♾️⭐️
4🌶️
Redeeming the Villain
This is the second book in the HEAU University series and OMG I loved it, I’m so happy to be back at HEAU university.
The story was great and I was addicted from the start, I loved the sleeping beauty retelling of the story and felt it was done very well. Malik and Alora were so cute together them and their banter and how they went from serious enemies to lovers was just ✨Chefs kiss 😘✨
I could tell from the start of the book that Malik was going to fall HARD for Alora, I mean come on “I tried not to smell her strawberry and vanilla perfume but couldn’t help it” that man was a simp for her and I ate up every second of that and this book.
I think the POTS Representation was very important and well done in the book, I like when books have health/mental health reps as I feel it will bring more awareness to that illness.
Another part of the story that I found really enjoyable to read was the fact that Pru showed Maliks journey with grief and how he coped with it, also that it’s ok for men/boys to cry and to not feel ashamed about it. I felt that was a really important message in the story.
I can’t lie there was a second where I was thinking wow Malik is a bit too mean but then Alora came back fighting and I was so here for it. With it being a bully romance I thought I wouldn’t like it as much as I did but I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I’m definitely adding it to my favourites of all time. As I read on I could see Malik was just hurting and lashing out at others to protect himself from being hurt again. Alora was the perfect person for him, like yin and yang, light and dark.
The switch from Malik hating Alora to falling for her was pretty abrupt and I find when that happens in books it usually puts me off and I end up dnfing the book, this kind of did but also didn’t in a way because I could see there was underlying trauma and issues between the two that would explain the past hate.
I genuinely loved this book and can’t wait for the rest of the series. I’m secretly but not so secretly hoping a Cinderella retelling will be next 😂
This series by Pru combines both my love of spicy hockey romance and Disney princess retellings. I 100000000000% recommend you start this series NOW, it’s amazing and you won’t regret it.
Tropes
🩷College Hockey romance
✨Enemies to lovers
🩷Bully romance
✨He was her high school bully
🩷Interconnected pasts
✨”Always been you”
🩷College hockey
✨Sleeping beauty retelling
🩷Family trauma
✨POTS representation
🩷Hate to love
✨Hockey player x pianist
🩷Castle campus setting
✨Star crossed lovers
🩷Twisted secrets
✨Dual POV
🩷Possessive MMC
✨Forbidden romance
🩷Congressman’s daughter
✨Service dog
🩷Nobody touches her but me
✨Secret obsession/pining
🩷Rich girl x poor boy
✨Elite university
🩷He falls first
✨Found family
🩷No 3rd act break up
✨HEA (happily ever after) 🥹🩷
♾️⭐️
4🌶️
June 6, 2025
📖 𝙍𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙑𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙮 𝙋𝙧𝙪 𝙎𝙘𝙝𝙪𝙮𝙡𝙚𝙧 ✨
“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘈𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢.”
I have been waiting for Malik’s story for nearly a year! We meet him in Saving the Beast and I just knew his book was going to be amazing.
Right from the beginning we get a flashback chapter that shows us a glimpse of the messy history between Malik and Alora. Malik is morally grey and has a truly tragic backstory! (I promise you he becomes beyond devoted to her during this story!)
Alora is looking to leave her past behind her and enjoy her college experience. Her & her trusty service dog, Sunny are excited to be at HEAU. The last person she ever wanted to see again, her highschool bully, is about to shake up that excitement though.
Malik has reinvented himself at HEAU as a hockey star. He has a new found family that do not know about his past and who he used to be. The last thing he wanted was Alora Briarwood to show up at his school. She brings up bad memories and he can’t get her off his mind. He thought he knew what type of person she was, but maybe he was wrong all along?
“𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘦, 𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘬.
Malik is a broken boy, and my heart hurt for what he’s gone through. The friendship he formed with Griffin over their grief, is so special. Even after everything he did to Alora in high school, she still saw the spark of light inside him that was more than worthy of love. I wanted to give him the biggest hug!
“𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦. 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘦 𝘮𝘦. 𝘔𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘮𝘦. 𝘋𝘰 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵.” 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘳𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘳𝘰𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘴 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘶𝘴. “𝘐’𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴, 𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘬. 𝘛𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘦.”
Listen y’all, the spicy tension between Malik & Alora had me in a chokehold. I loved this book so much! Their past is messy, but the pull between them was so strong. (And the spice was freaking PERFECTION!) 😮💨🫠❤️🔥
“𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘦𝘵. 𝘐 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘰𝘢𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘳𝘺. 𝘎𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦.”
I loved getting to see more of our favorite hockey players! They were more than ready to stand up for their friends! This whole series is going to be one of my all time favorites and it’s not even finished yet!
If you love fairytale inspired modern day romances with a broken boy, please go read this series today!
𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴:
❤️🔥 𝘌𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴
👀 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 & 𝘓𝘪𝘦𝘴
🩶 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘺 𝘔𝘔𝘊
🥹 𝘉𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘉𝘰𝘺
❤️🩹 𝘗𝘖𝘛𝘚 𝘙𝘦𝘱
🦮 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘋𝘰𝘨 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦
🫶🏼 𝘍𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺
🔥 𝘚𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘉𝘶𝘳𝘯 + 𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘪𝘪𝘪𝘤𝘺
“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘈𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘢.”
I have been waiting for Malik’s story for nearly a year! We meet him in Saving the Beast and I just knew his book was going to be amazing.
Right from the beginning we get a flashback chapter that shows us a glimpse of the messy history between Malik and Alora. Malik is morally grey and has a truly tragic backstory! (I promise you he becomes beyond devoted to her during this story!)
Alora is looking to leave her past behind her and enjoy her college experience. Her & her trusty service dog, Sunny are excited to be at HEAU. The last person she ever wanted to see again, her highschool bully, is about to shake up that excitement though.
Malik has reinvented himself at HEAU as a hockey star. He has a new found family that do not know about his past and who he used to be. The last thing he wanted was Alora Briarwood to show up at his school. She brings up bad memories and he can’t get her off his mind. He thought he knew what type of person she was, but maybe he was wrong all along?
“𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘦, 𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘬.
Malik is a broken boy, and my heart hurt for what he’s gone through. The friendship he formed with Griffin over their grief, is so special. Even after everything he did to Alora in high school, she still saw the spark of light inside him that was more than worthy of love. I wanted to give him the biggest hug!
“𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘦. 𝘚𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘦 𝘮𝘦. 𝘔𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘮𝘦. 𝘋𝘰 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵.” 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘳𝘺, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘳𝘰𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘺 𝘦𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘥𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘴 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘶𝘴. “𝘐’𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴, 𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘬. 𝘛𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘦.”
Listen y’all, the spicy tension between Malik & Alora had me in a chokehold. I loved this book so much! Their past is messy, but the pull between them was so strong. (And the spice was freaking PERFECTION!) 😮💨🫠❤️🔥
“𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺 𝘲𝘶𝘪𝘦𝘵. 𝘐 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘮𝘰𝘢𝘯, 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘳𝘺. 𝘎𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦.”
I loved getting to see more of our favorite hockey players! They were more than ready to stand up for their friends! This whole series is going to be one of my all time favorites and it’s not even finished yet!
If you love fairytale inspired modern day romances with a broken boy, please go read this series today!
𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘴:
❤️🔥 𝘌𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴
👀 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴 & 𝘓𝘪𝘦𝘴
🩶 𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘺 𝘔𝘔𝘊
🥹 𝘉𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘉𝘰𝘺
❤️🩹 𝘗𝘖𝘛𝘚 𝘙𝘦𝘱
🦮 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘋𝘰𝘨 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦
🫶🏼 𝘍𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘢𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘺
🔥 𝘚𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘉𝘶𝘳𝘯 + 𝘚𝘱𝘪𝘪𝘪𝘪𝘤𝘺
May 29, 2025
4.5⭐️
“The easiest thing I’ll ever do is love you forever, Alora.” ❤️
“What am I going to do with you?” .. “Keep me?” .. “Letting you go has never been an option.” ❤️
“She’s my life now, the most important part of my existence. Nothing will change that. She’s who I look for in the stands of my games, the home that my heart has found solace in.” ❤️
Tropes
College hockey romance
Sleeping beauty retelling
Bully romance
Rich girl Poor boy
MMC with a traumatic past
FMC with chronic illness
Redemption arc
I don’t enjoy Bully romances, but I loved this first book in this series and I’m glad I gave this one a chance. Malik was making it real hard to keep an open mind for his character, but by the end he completely redeemed himself in my eyes.
I really came to like Malik. He was protective, possessive, researched her illness so that he knew how he could help take care of her, he genuinely felt bad and scared when he thought he caused her flare up that one time, he loved her out loud and made sure everyone knew it, he spoke life into her, he was always there for her. I loved seeing how he loved her even thought he was broken inside. To me, loving her helped to heal him. And I can’t forget about his mouth. The spice was definitely spiiiicing with these two!
I really liked Alora as well. I love how strong and resilient she became. She wasn’t putting up with Malik’s bs anymore and that caught him off guard. I hated what she went through with that creep professor, but I’m glad that in the end she was still able to show her talent and rock the showcase. She deserved that.
I’m glad her POS dad got what he deserved (but I would’ve loved to have seen what Malik did if he found out that he slapped her), Malik’s POS uncle got what he deserved but I wanted to actually see him crumble and finally offer some sort of apology to Malik, but it just shows that some people are just just evil.
I loved all of the Sleeping Beauty references, I loved the actual hockey that was included, I loved the found family, and I loved Malik and Alora together. I just wish we would’ve gotten an extended epilogue showing them getting engaged or married or whatever their lives looked like a few years down the line. That type of ending would’ve given it more HEA vibes for me
“The easiest thing I’ll ever do is love you forever, Alora.” ❤️
“What am I going to do with you?” .. “Keep me?” .. “Letting you go has never been an option.” ❤️
“She’s my life now, the most important part of my existence. Nothing will change that. She’s who I look for in the stands of my games, the home that my heart has found solace in.” ❤️
Tropes
College hockey romance
Sleeping beauty retelling
Bully romance
Rich girl Poor boy
MMC with a traumatic past
FMC with chronic illness
Redemption arc
I don’t enjoy Bully romances, but I loved this first book in this series and I’m glad I gave this one a chance. Malik was making it real hard to keep an open mind for his character, but by the end he completely redeemed himself in my eyes.
I really came to like Malik. He was protective, possessive, researched her illness so that he knew how he could help take care of her, he genuinely felt bad and scared when he thought he caused her flare up that one time, he loved her out loud and made sure everyone knew it, he spoke life into her, he was always there for her. I loved seeing how he loved her even thought he was broken inside. To me, loving her helped to heal him. And I can’t forget about his mouth. The spice was definitely spiiiicing with these two!
I really liked Alora as well. I love how strong and resilient she became. She wasn’t putting up with Malik’s bs anymore and that caught him off guard. I hated what she went through with that creep professor, but I’m glad that in the end she was still able to show her talent and rock the showcase. She deserved that.
I’m glad her POS dad got what he deserved (but I would’ve loved to have seen what Malik did if he found out that he slapped her), Malik’s POS uncle got what he deserved but I wanted to actually see him crumble and finally offer some sort of apology to Malik, but it just shows that some people are just just evil.
I loved all of the Sleeping Beauty references, I loved the actual hockey that was included, I loved the found family, and I loved Malik and Alora together. I just wish we would’ve gotten an extended epilogue showing them getting engaged or married or whatever their lives looked like a few years down the line. That type of ending would’ve given it more HEA vibes for me
June 5, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | A spellbinding fusion of hockey heat, heartfelt disability rep, and fairytale magic
Pru Schuyler has officially scored a hat-trick with Redeeming the Villain, the second installment in the HEAU Hockey Legends series—and my new gold-standard for sports romance. From the drop of the puck, this story dazzles with depth, delivering a swoon-worthy love match wrapped in razor-sharp social commentary and a pitch-perfect Sleeping Beauty homage.
Authentic POTS representation
Protagonist Talia’s struggles with POTS aren’t window dressing; they’re woven into every practice, every class, every stolen kiss in the training room. Schuyler captures the frustrating uncertainty of living with an invisible, often-misunderstood condition while still letting Talia be fierce, funny, and undeniably desirable. As someone who’s longed to see nuanced disability rep in romance, I felt seen on every page.
Complex emotions & sparkling chemistry
Talia and bad-boy goalie Lucas glide from enemies to allies to something breathtakingly tender, their connection deepening in tandem with Lucas’s hard-won journey from headline villain to genuine hero. Expect banter sharp enough to cut tape lines and moments so vulnerable you’ll press a palm to your chest.
High-stakes backdrop
Schuyler raises the stakes with a delicious undercurrent of political corruption swirling around HEAU’s athletic board—think boosters, bribes, and reputations on the brink—plus realistic parent-child rifts that mirror the story’s core question: What does it mean to truly wake up and claim your life?
A fairytale reimagined
By threading in Sleeping Beauty motifs—the pricking betrayal, the “kiss” that’s really hard-earned trust, a heroine who refuses to stay dormant—the novel feels both timeless and fiercely modern. Pairing that framework with POTS was nothing short of genius, proving that happily-ever-afters ring louder when they honor real-world challenges.
Bottom line? Redeeming the Villain is a triumphant blend of adrenaline, heart, and hope. Whether you’re here for the hockey, the disability rep, or the fairytale twist, this book will leave you wide-awake and cheering long after the final buzzer.
Pru Schuyler has officially scored a hat-trick with Redeeming the Villain, the second installment in the HEAU Hockey Legends series—and my new gold-standard for sports romance. From the drop of the puck, this story dazzles with depth, delivering a swoon-worthy love match wrapped in razor-sharp social commentary and a pitch-perfect Sleeping Beauty homage.
Authentic POTS representation
Protagonist Talia’s struggles with POTS aren’t window dressing; they’re woven into every practice, every class, every stolen kiss in the training room. Schuyler captures the frustrating uncertainty of living with an invisible, often-misunderstood condition while still letting Talia be fierce, funny, and undeniably desirable. As someone who’s longed to see nuanced disability rep in romance, I felt seen on every page.
Complex emotions & sparkling chemistry
Talia and bad-boy goalie Lucas glide from enemies to allies to something breathtakingly tender, their connection deepening in tandem with Lucas’s hard-won journey from headline villain to genuine hero. Expect banter sharp enough to cut tape lines and moments so vulnerable you’ll press a palm to your chest.
High-stakes backdrop
Schuyler raises the stakes with a delicious undercurrent of political corruption swirling around HEAU’s athletic board—think boosters, bribes, and reputations on the brink—plus realistic parent-child rifts that mirror the story’s core question: What does it mean to truly wake up and claim your life?
A fairytale reimagined
By threading in Sleeping Beauty motifs—the pricking betrayal, the “kiss” that’s really hard-earned trust, a heroine who refuses to stay dormant—the novel feels both timeless and fiercely modern. Pairing that framework with POTS was nothing short of genius, proving that happily-ever-afters ring louder when they honor real-world challenges.
Bottom line? Redeeming the Villain is a triumphant blend of adrenaline, heart, and hope. Whether you’re here for the hockey, the disability rep, or the fairytale twist, this book will leave you wide-awake and cheering long after the final buzzer.
May 26, 2025
💗 𝓮𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓡𝓔𝓥𝓘𝓔𝓦💗
I am loving this world that Pru has created with the Happily Ever After University Hockey Legends and all that goes with it. I straight up devoured this and felt all kinds of things during. The retelling of our childhood stories is done so good and while Redeeming The Villian is as obvious as the first was, it will still steal your heart. Malik and Alora had me both laughing and tearing up at times. I did not want to love Malik as much as I did. Yes he was a bully, but what he needed was a hug and to heal from his grief and guilt he has carried from childhood. Alora was exactly what he needed, even though she was the target of his bullying. Malik was truly terrible but at the same time struggled with his feelings of wanting her. Alora, having grown since high school shocked Malik when she didn’t back down. And goodness did Alora have to be strong, with having POTS and her overbearing politician father (he’s the worst) Malik and Alora’s chemistry was off the charts and the banter was fire. I loved that once Alora discovered Malik’s secrets, she forgave him and saw the good that he has hidden. Besides how can you not love a man who tattoos her name on his knuckles and will take anyone down who hurts her. The POTS representation was done so good and we can’t forget how much Sunny brought to the story. It was so great having Blair and Griffin and the other Legend. The found family vibe is so strong with this series and I’m excited for whats coming next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🎀 Sleeping Beauty Retelling
🏒Enemies To Lovers
🎀POTS Representation
🏒Her High School Bully
🎀Found Family
🏒College Hockey
🎀Your Mine Vibes
“I want to ruin you. Corrupt you. Make you suffer the same way I do. Make you hate me for the rest of your life. At least if you did, I would be free from the torment of choosing or losing you.”
“But I’m done hiding from the villains in my life. I’m not a princess locked in a tower, waiting to be saved by some honorable prince. I’ll wield the sword and slay the dragon myself.”
Thank you Pru Schuyler for the beautiful arc💗
I am loving this world that Pru has created with the Happily Ever After University Hockey Legends and all that goes with it. I straight up devoured this and felt all kinds of things during. The retelling of our childhood stories is done so good and while Redeeming The Villian is as obvious as the first was, it will still steal your heart. Malik and Alora had me both laughing and tearing up at times. I did not want to love Malik as much as I did. Yes he was a bully, but what he needed was a hug and to heal from his grief and guilt he has carried from childhood. Alora was exactly what he needed, even though she was the target of his bullying. Malik was truly terrible but at the same time struggled with his feelings of wanting her. Alora, having grown since high school shocked Malik when she didn’t back down. And goodness did Alora have to be strong, with having POTS and her overbearing politician father (he’s the worst) Malik and Alora’s chemistry was off the charts and the banter was fire. I loved that once Alora discovered Malik’s secrets, she forgave him and saw the good that he has hidden. Besides how can you not love a man who tattoos her name on his knuckles and will take anyone down who hurts her. The POTS representation was done so good and we can’t forget how much Sunny brought to the story. It was so great having Blair and Griffin and the other Legend. The found family vibe is so strong with this series and I’m excited for whats coming next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
🎀 Sleeping Beauty Retelling
🏒Enemies To Lovers
🎀POTS Representation
🏒Her High School Bully
🎀Found Family
🏒College Hockey
🎀Your Mine Vibes
“I want to ruin you. Corrupt you. Make you suffer the same way I do. Make you hate me for the rest of your life. At least if you did, I would be free from the torment of choosing or losing you.”
“But I’m done hiding from the villains in my life. I’m not a princess locked in a tower, waiting to be saved by some honorable prince. I’ll wield the sword and slay the dragon myself.”
Thank you Pru Schuyler for the beautiful arc💗
May 24, 2025
This is a Dual POV, enemies-to-lovers, College Hockey romance set in a (sort of) fairytale University. Very loosely fairytale retelling, in a contemporary romance.
A few notes to highlight:
🎼 POTS rep
🏒 hockey player x pianist
🎼 interconnected standalone
🏒 bully romance
🎼 possessive MMC
Alora is ready to find her way through to a future she’ll be happy with- not just follow what her Congressman Dad wants her to do. She is in love with music, her piano is her favorite escape, and with her doggo Sunny at her side to keep her company and make the days smoother, she’s unstoppable! Until…she runs into her high school bully, Malik at her new University. What are the odds??!! ✨ no present bullying ✨
In a crazy twist of fate, the two keep running into each other and sooner rather than later, some hard truths are brought to the forefront.
This was such a great read! I loved how the dynamics played out, the banter between Alora and Malik 😂 literally laughed when he was shookith at her audacity! He was pretty quick to change his tune though, and his friends were amazing and supportive ❤️ no toxic masculinity here folks ✨snaps✨ Definitely angsty (what good enemeies to lovers doesn’t have angst) but the resolution to it all is so beautiful!
This is a must read if you want a good read with a FMC who knows her worth and also believes in the good in others, not quick to jump to conclusions, and loves pink 😂 The balance between POVs was amazing! I think we got pretty 50/50 distribution between them, and the POTS rep didn’t overpower the plot, it added to the ways in which we could see that Malik paid attention to her and cared for her ❤️
Spice! I always scroll to find this part in the reviews 😂 this is defs open door spicy scenes, its a slow burn so it doesn’t start until later in the book, about 50% and on, I would rate it at about 🌶️🌶️🌶️, they MAKE TIME whenever for the spice 😂 loved it! Has bit of a ✨degradation✨ kink in there.
Overall, a fun read, and a definite must if you love retellings!
✨ARC Review✨
A few notes to highlight:
🎼 POTS rep
🏒 hockey player x pianist
🎼 interconnected standalone
🏒 bully romance
🎼 possessive MMC
Alora is ready to find her way through to a future she’ll be happy with- not just follow what her Congressman Dad wants her to do. She is in love with music, her piano is her favorite escape, and with her doggo Sunny at her side to keep her company and make the days smoother, she’s unstoppable! Until…she runs into her high school bully, Malik at her new University. What are the odds??!! ✨ no present bullying ✨
In a crazy twist of fate, the two keep running into each other and sooner rather than later, some hard truths are brought to the forefront.
This was such a great read! I loved how the dynamics played out, the banter between Alora and Malik 😂 literally laughed when he was shookith at her audacity! He was pretty quick to change his tune though, and his friends were amazing and supportive ❤️ no toxic masculinity here folks ✨snaps✨ Definitely angsty (what good enemeies to lovers doesn’t have angst) but the resolution to it all is so beautiful!
This is a must read if you want a good read with a FMC who knows her worth and also believes in the good in others, not quick to jump to conclusions, and loves pink 😂 The balance between POVs was amazing! I think we got pretty 50/50 distribution between them, and the POTS rep didn’t overpower the plot, it added to the ways in which we could see that Malik paid attention to her and cared for her ❤️
Spice! I always scroll to find this part in the reviews 😂 this is defs open door spicy scenes, its a slow burn so it doesn’t start until later in the book, about 50% and on, I would rate it at about 🌶️🌶️🌶️, they MAKE TIME whenever for the spice 😂 loved it! Has bit of a ✨degradation✨ kink in there.
Overall, a fun read, and a definite must if you love retellings!
✨ARC Review✨
June 5, 2025
"Because of every little moment leading up to this, I stand in the arms of the redeemed villain, in a castle free of curses and thorns, in a love story that is no one else's but our own"
Esta es la primera vez que leo a la autora, leí la sinopsis y decía que era un retelling de la bella durmiente, así que es algo que no podía no leer.
Es un libro super adictivo y entretenido. El 50% del libro me lo devoré porque no podía parar de leer y quería entender a los protagonistas. Es una especie de enemigos a amantes con bullying (lean los triggers). Este trope de acá es interesante, sé que mucha gente no le gusta, pero este podría ser la excepción. Al principio odias al protagonista masculino pero después de que entendes todo, lo empezas amar. El estaba obsesionado con Alora, la protagonista. Es la típica sunshine pero me gusto que tenía carácter. No es un libro que les va a cambiar la vida pero esta divertido para leer una vez. Tiene vibras como si Elle Kennedy y Rina Kent escribieran un libro.
Por último, es una serie y cada historia es un retelling, el primero es el de la bella y la bestia.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the first time I’ve read something by this author. I read the blurb and it said it was a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, so it was something I just had to read.
It’s a super addictive and entertaining book. I devoured 50% of it because I couldn’t stop reading and wanted to understand the main characters. It’s a sort of enemies-to-lovers story with bullying involved (check the trigger warnings).
This particular trope is interesting — I know a lot of people don’t like it, but this one might be the exception. At first, you hate the male lead, but once you understand everything, you start to love him. He was obsessed with Alora, the main character. She’s the typical sunshine girl, but I liked that she had a strong personality.
It’s a series, and each book is a different retelling — the first one is Beauty and the Beast.
Thanks to the author for the ARC 🩷🩷🩷🩷
Esta es la primera vez que leo a la autora, leí la sinopsis y decía que era un retelling de la bella durmiente, así que es algo que no podía no leer.
Es un libro super adictivo y entretenido. El 50% del libro me lo devoré porque no podía parar de leer y quería entender a los protagonistas. Es una especie de enemigos a amantes con bullying (lean los triggers). Este trope de acá es interesante, sé que mucha gente no le gusta, pero este podría ser la excepción. Al principio odias al protagonista masculino pero después de que entendes todo, lo empezas amar. El estaba obsesionado con Alora, la protagonista. Es la típica sunshine pero me gusto que tenía carácter. No es un libro que les va a cambiar la vida pero esta divertido para leer una vez. Tiene vibras como si Elle Kennedy y Rina Kent escribieran un libro.
Por último, es una serie y cada historia es un retelling, el primero es el de la bella y la bestia.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the first time I’ve read something by this author. I read the blurb and it said it was a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, so it was something I just had to read.
It’s a super addictive and entertaining book. I devoured 50% of it because I couldn’t stop reading and wanted to understand the main characters. It’s a sort of enemies-to-lovers story with bullying involved (check the trigger warnings).
This particular trope is interesting — I know a lot of people don’t like it, but this one might be the exception. At first, you hate the male lead, but once you understand everything, you start to love him. He was obsessed with Alora, the main character. She’s the typical sunshine girl, but I liked that she had a strong personality.
It’s a series, and each book is a different retelling — the first one is Beauty and the Beast.
Thanks to the author for the ARC 🩷🩷🩷🩷
June 5, 2025
Hi. Hello. Hi. That epilogue did NOT have to go that hard into my feelings lol Way to make me cry with the last three pages of a book
YOU'VE NOW BEEN FOREWARNED
I loved this with my whole heart. Malik had so much that was breaking him from the inside out. He had so much pain and so much rage. But watching him from the first page to the last learn how to live with that and his past. How to grow and go from a 'villain' to a hardcore protector of Alora will make him rise thru the ranks of book boyfriends. He was broken and with the help of Griffin and showing a crack or two in his walls...Alora slipped thru with Sunny and he grew and healed and it was beautiful.
Alora, being the daughter of a Congressman, was the definition of people pleaser. She kept her head down and it hurt to watch her be a pawn in not only her father's life but also Malik's during high school. She came to HEAU finally spread her wings and explore all the things she was never allowed before. You could tell she was 100% cautious with everybody she came across because they were somehow attached to Malik and he had made her life hell. She also had tried to keep her dad off her back, while dealing with an invisible health disability. But I was so happy to watch her from the first chapter to the last grow into her own. She found her voice and definitely learned how to use it. She was such a kindhearted girl.
Sunny!!! The cutest little fluff girl to ever live!
Having these two at the same college without the other having knowledge of it and how it came to light had me giggling. Their obvious chemistry and magnetic pull was definitely there once the snark and hatred wore off. I loved these two together because they definitely showed how college couples work. Communication was hard at any level but once they had complete trust in each other we finally got to see why Malik's hatred of Blackwoods went so deep. We got to see Alora blossom into who she was truly meant to be and find a family that was going to go to bat for her no matter what. And Malik learned to live with how Alora's father so drastically changed the course his life but Alora wasn't the girl he thought she was.
Everything about it was *chef's kiss* It was such a heartbreaking romance with snark and emotional pain and spicy spicy all wrapped up with an adorable golden pup as they learned to fight their way out of dark times.
I'm ready Pru Schuyler to see who nudges in and pushes Sunny out of the spot of Asher's girl
YOU'VE NOW BEEN FOREWARNED
I loved this with my whole heart. Malik had so much that was breaking him from the inside out. He had so much pain and so much rage. But watching him from the first page to the last learn how to live with that and his past. How to grow and go from a 'villain' to a hardcore protector of Alora will make him rise thru the ranks of book boyfriends. He was broken and with the help of Griffin and showing a crack or two in his walls...Alora slipped thru with Sunny and he grew and healed and it was beautiful.
Alora, being the daughter of a Congressman, was the definition of people pleaser. She kept her head down and it hurt to watch her be a pawn in not only her father's life but also Malik's during high school. She came to HEAU finally spread her wings and explore all the things she was never allowed before. You could tell she was 100% cautious with everybody she came across because they were somehow attached to Malik and he had made her life hell. She also had tried to keep her dad off her back, while dealing with an invisible health disability. But I was so happy to watch her from the first chapter to the last grow into her own. She found her voice and definitely learned how to use it. She was such a kindhearted girl.
Sunny!!! The cutest little fluff girl to ever live!
Having these two at the same college without the other having knowledge of it and how it came to light had me giggling. Their obvious chemistry and magnetic pull was definitely there once the snark and hatred wore off. I loved these two together because they definitely showed how college couples work. Communication was hard at any level but once they had complete trust in each other we finally got to see why Malik's hatred of Blackwoods went so deep. We got to see Alora blossom into who she was truly meant to be and find a family that was going to go to bat for her no matter what. And Malik learned to live with how Alora's father so drastically changed the course his life but Alora wasn't the girl he thought she was.
Everything about it was *chef's kiss* It was such a heartbreaking romance with snark and emotional pain and spicy spicy all wrapped up with an adorable golden pup as they learned to fight their way out of dark times.
I'm ready Pru Schuyler to see who nudges in and pushes Sunny out of the spot of Asher's girl
May 29, 2025
✨Okay, Redeeming the Villain absolutely wrecked me in the best way.🤭
Enemies to lovers? ✔️
College hockey romance🏒? ✔️
A tortured bad boy with a soft side he swears doesn’t exist? ✔️✔️
A fmc who finds her voice and refuses to shrink herself anymore? YES.
Alora and Malik’s story is messy, emotional, and full of tension—but also healing, soft, and beautifully redemptive🥹. Watching these two navigate their tangled past, the pain they both carry, and the undeniable pull between them was honestly addictive🫠. The way their walls come down piece by piece? CHEF’S KISS.🤌🏽
🥰Malik is such a well-written “villain.” He’s not perfect. He’s angry, he’s guarded, and he’s made serious mistakes—but the way he chooses to grow, to protect, and eventually to love💜? Absolutely melted me.😭And Alora? She’s the quiet kind of strong. Her journey of reclaiming her power and finding her own path made me root for her from the start.🫶🏽
Also, shoutout to Sunny the service dog for being a literal angel. 🐾
This book is the perfect blend of angst, heartache, banter, healing, and swoon. It takes familiar tropes and gives them so much emotional depth. I highlighted so many lines.🤭
⭐️If you love character-driven romance with emotional stakes, real growth, and a slow-burn that pays off hard—add this to your TBR immediately.❤️🔥
💕Pru Schuyler, I am begging you to write more in this world. I’m not ready to leave Happily Ever After University yet.🙌🏽
Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to reads this ARC!💜
Enemies to lovers? ✔️
College hockey romance🏒? ✔️
A tortured bad boy with a soft side he swears doesn’t exist? ✔️✔️
A fmc who finds her voice and refuses to shrink herself anymore? YES.
Alora and Malik’s story is messy, emotional, and full of tension—but also healing, soft, and beautifully redemptive🥹. Watching these two navigate their tangled past, the pain they both carry, and the undeniable pull between them was honestly addictive🫠. The way their walls come down piece by piece? CHEF’S KISS.🤌🏽
🥰Malik is such a well-written “villain.” He’s not perfect. He’s angry, he’s guarded, and he’s made serious mistakes—but the way he chooses to grow, to protect, and eventually to love💜? Absolutely melted me.😭And Alora? She’s the quiet kind of strong. Her journey of reclaiming her power and finding her own path made me root for her from the start.🫶🏽
Also, shoutout to Sunny the service dog for being a literal angel. 🐾
This book is the perfect blend of angst, heartache, banter, healing, and swoon. It takes familiar tropes and gives them so much emotional depth. I highlighted so many lines.🤭
⭐️If you love character-driven romance with emotional stakes, real growth, and a slow-burn that pays off hard—add this to your TBR immediately.❤️🔥
💕Pru Schuyler, I am begging you to write more in this world. I’m not ready to leave Happily Ever After University yet.🙌🏽
Thank you to the Author for the opportunity to reads this ARC!💜
May 24, 2025
I received an eARC for this book and loved being able to continue this series.
Malick and Alora are such a tender couple. This is not a book for the faint of heart. It definitely starts off very rough with Malick being Alora's bully and making her life horrible.
Even with knowing how much he "hated" Alora you still felt the hurt that he was feeling because of what happened in the past. The tension and angst between these characters was palpable. It was insane!
Malick is such a tortured, broken MMC who is barely clinging to life. He is struggling and has so much hurt in his heart. It was great to see his perspective and how he dealt with everything. Alora has a difficult and complicated relationship with her father and as the story unfolds we find out some deep, dark truths. She grows so much throughout the story and seeing her push through all her difficulties is inspiring.
There is a great representation of POTS and the care everyone provided for Alora was great.
There were a lot of little aspects that bring you back to the original fairytale story but they're different enough where you don't really feel like it's the same.
If you enjoy retellings, then you should definitely give this book a read. The story definitely has some tougher subjects that are mentioned and they are tackled in a delicate manner.
Malick and Alora are such a tender couple. This is not a book for the faint of heart. It definitely starts off very rough with Malick being Alora's bully and making her life horrible.
Even with knowing how much he "hated" Alora you still felt the hurt that he was feeling because of what happened in the past. The tension and angst between these characters was palpable. It was insane!
Malick is such a tortured, broken MMC who is barely clinging to life. He is struggling and has so much hurt in his heart. It was great to see his perspective and how he dealt with everything. Alora has a difficult and complicated relationship with her father and as the story unfolds we find out some deep, dark truths. She grows so much throughout the story and seeing her push through all her difficulties is inspiring.
There is a great representation of POTS and the care everyone provided for Alora was great.
There were a lot of little aspects that bring you back to the original fairytale story but they're different enough where you don't really feel like it's the same.
If you enjoy retellings, then you should definitely give this book a read. The story definitely has some tougher subjects that are mentioned and they are tackled in a delicate manner.
May 23, 2025
📚ARC Review – Redeeming the Villain by Pru Schuyler📚
🗓️Releasing May 24🗓️
•Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨About the characters:
Alora:
She starts off reserved—thanks to her father’s big name and even bigger expectations—but deep down, she just wants to figure out who she is. She’s sweet, quiet, and honestly handles everything thrown at her like a champ. Her love for music is beautiful, and her bond with her dog? Adorable. You can’t not love her.
Malik:
Okay, Malik comes in cold, angry, and 100% on a mission for revenge—and honestly, I get it. He’s been through a lot, and it’s left him feeling pretty lost. But under that tough exterior, he’s all heart. Once he lets people in (especially Alora), you see how loyal and protective he really is.
✨My thoughts:
This was my first Pru Schuyler book and I’m really glad I gave it a shot. I read the whole thing in one day—it just pulled me in. I also really appreciated how much care the author took to learn about POTS before writing this. It showed.
The story is all about healing, trust, and seeing people for who they really are—not just where they come from. The found family vibes? So, so good. I loved the friendships and how real they felt. Can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
🗓️Releasing May 24🗓️
•Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✨About the characters:
Alora:
She starts off reserved—thanks to her father’s big name and even bigger expectations—but deep down, she just wants to figure out who she is. She’s sweet, quiet, and honestly handles everything thrown at her like a champ. Her love for music is beautiful, and her bond with her dog? Adorable. You can’t not love her.
Malik:
Okay, Malik comes in cold, angry, and 100% on a mission for revenge—and honestly, I get it. He’s been through a lot, and it’s left him feeling pretty lost. But under that tough exterior, he’s all heart. Once he lets people in (especially Alora), you see how loyal and protective he really is.
✨My thoughts:
This was my first Pru Schuyler book and I’m really glad I gave it a shot. I read the whole thing in one day—it just pulled me in. I also really appreciated how much care the author took to learn about POTS before writing this. It showed.
The story is all about healing, trust, and seeing people for who they really are—not just where they come from. The found family vibes? So, so good. I loved the friendships and how real they felt. Can’t wait to see where the series goes next!
May 25, 2025
This book! I was hooked from the beginning! Malik & Alora’s chemistry was off the charts from the beginning. Full of angst, tension, and heartache I couldn’t put this one down.
Oh Malik. The emotions this man pulled from me. I wanted to shake him on moment, and hold him the next. His story was heartbreaking and his pain was palpable. The way the flip switched as he realized the truth of Alora. He went from tormentor to fierce protector so fast!
I loved Alora from the very beginning. As a POTSie myself, I felt her struggles so deep. She was a fighter both mentally and physically. While she was dealing with an invisible illnesss, she also went toe to toe with Malik.
The POTS representation in this book was amazing!! The everyday struggles, not knowing how the day is going to go, constantly calculating your next move to conserve energy. It’s all so real. Alora’s journey was so relatable. Thank you Pru for doing this illness such beautiful justice.
The found family in this book was perfect. I cannot wait to get more of Asher! 👏
Thank you Pru for the arc of Redeeming the Villain!
Favorite Quotes:
“Don’t apologize for who you became in order to survive, Malik
“The easiest thing I’ll ever do is love you forever, Alora.”
Oh Malik. The emotions this man pulled from me. I wanted to shake him on moment, and hold him the next. His story was heartbreaking and his pain was palpable. The way the flip switched as he realized the truth of Alora. He went from tormentor to fierce protector so fast!
I loved Alora from the very beginning. As a POTSie myself, I felt her struggles so deep. She was a fighter both mentally and physically. While she was dealing with an invisible illnesss, she also went toe to toe with Malik.
The POTS representation in this book was amazing!! The everyday struggles, not knowing how the day is going to go, constantly calculating your next move to conserve energy. It’s all so real. Alora’s journey was so relatable. Thank you Pru for doing this illness such beautiful justice.
The found family in this book was perfect. I cannot wait to get more of Asher! 👏
Thank you Pru for the arc of Redeeming the Villain!
Favorite Quotes:
“Don’t apologize for who you became in order to survive, Malik
“The easiest thing I’ll ever do is love you forever, Alora.”
May 26, 2025
Alora is the perfect facade of a person, well used to fake and pretend everything for appearances as a politician’s daughter.
Her life is anything but perfect, but as she starts her college adventure ad Happily Ever After University, she is determined to lead a new life and dedicate herself to her music.
Malik is a talented hockey player at HEAU. He is cocky, but hides his true self and his traumas from everyone. He is haunted by his past and the loss of his brother.
When Alora and Malik are confronted with each other, their pasts are no longer in the past. They are forced into dealing with their secrets, insecurities and fears.
Malik struggles to keep his distance from Alora, even tough she is the last person he should be thinking about.
Alora suffers from not only an illness and loneliness, but also from not knowing why Malik chooses to make her life a living hell.
Their hate becomes so much more, but dealing with the pain and ghost from the past can easily tear them apart.
A heartbreaking love story with so many lovely, messy, spicy and angsty moments that will get you hooked.
Pruh Shuyler writes an amazing story with strong and vulnerable characters that makes you believe in fate.
Beautiful, unique and highly recommended.
Thank you for the ARC.
Her life is anything but perfect, but as she starts her college adventure ad Happily Ever After University, she is determined to lead a new life and dedicate herself to her music.
Malik is a talented hockey player at HEAU. He is cocky, but hides his true self and his traumas from everyone. He is haunted by his past and the loss of his brother.
When Alora and Malik are confronted with each other, their pasts are no longer in the past. They are forced into dealing with their secrets, insecurities and fears.
Malik struggles to keep his distance from Alora, even tough she is the last person he should be thinking about.
Alora suffers from not only an illness and loneliness, but also from not knowing why Malik chooses to make her life a living hell.
Their hate becomes so much more, but dealing with the pain and ghost from the past can easily tear them apart.
A heartbreaking love story with so many lovely, messy, spicy and angsty moments that will get you hooked.
Pruh Shuyler writes an amazing story with strong and vulnerable characters that makes you believe in fate.
Beautiful, unique and highly recommended.
Thank you for the ARC.
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