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Bellthorn Boys #1
Gates of Bellthorn
There are five doors.
This isn’t a dorm. They left me here in this room with nothing but a bed, the darkness, and five locked doors.
Instead of preparing for my classes, I tremble, dreading what might come in next. I can’t sleep in a state of terror waiting for the door to open. Any door. Five men with 24/7 access.
Days go by, and my body gives up. I close my eyes and fall asleep, just to wake up with hands all over my body.
I never see their faces, but they make themselves known. Breath over my neck, a hand covering my mouth, and all I can do is hate myself for not being vigilant enough. I fell asleep.
The gates of Bellthorn are locked up tight, with me stuck inside. But I’m only one secret. There are far more to discover.
Welcome to Belthorn Academy.
This isn’t a dorm. They left me here in this room with nothing but a bed, the darkness, and five locked doors.
Instead of preparing for my classes, I tremble, dreading what might come in next. I can’t sleep in a state of terror waiting for the door to open. Any door. Five men with 24/7 access.
Days go by, and my body gives up. I close my eyes and fall asleep, just to wake up with hands all over my body.
I never see their faces, but they make themselves known. Breath over my neck, a hand covering my mouth, and all I can do is hate myself for not being vigilant enough. I fell asleep.
The gates of Bellthorn are locked up tight, with me stuck inside. But I’m only one secret. There are far more to discover.
Welcome to Belthorn Academy.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2025
81 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
October 7, 2025
Thank you, Luna Literary, for the arc!!
I think I am not the target audience for this. The book is exactly what the tropes say it is, yet not really.
What you will find inside this book:
- Dark Romance
- Why Choose
- Gothic Academia
- Free Use
- Somno
- Bully Romance
- Twin Brothers
- Exhibition/Voyeur
Something you must know is that this book is severely non-con. There is no informed consent. There's large amounts of humiliation going on and most of the sexual interactions is rape. The fact that Sable is able to enjoy maybe half of it is a benefit to her and makes the boys feel less bad about this, if they ever did. They're too caught up in their nepotist "rights" to ask themselves the hard questions.
One half of the book are kinky scenes, noncon of course. The other half is the men fighting amongst each other, being edgy and broody. So much drama.
I love most of the kinks listed, but not like this. Maybe my fault for misinterpreting the combination of non-con and bully romance.
I think I am not the target audience for this. The book is exactly what the tropes say it is, yet not really.
What you will find inside this book:
- Dark Romance
- Why Choose
- Gothic Academia
- Free Use
- Somno
- Bully Romance
- Twin Brothers
- Exhibition/Voyeur
Something you must know is that this book is severely non-con. There is no informed consent. There's large amounts of humiliation going on and most of the sexual interactions is rape. The fact that Sable is able to enjoy maybe half of it is a benefit to her and makes the boys feel less bad about this, if they ever did. They're too caught up in their nepotist "rights" to ask themselves the hard questions.
One half of the book are kinky scenes, noncon of course. The other half is the men fighting amongst each other, being edgy and broody. So much drama.
I love most of the kinks listed, but not like this. Maybe my fault for misinterpreting the combination of non-con and bully romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2025
3.5 too many questions not answered! Hopefully book two will tell more!
Super super spicy and fast pace.
- 5 guys with secrets and lies
- twins
- dark academia
- degradation
Super super spicy and fast pace.
- 5 guys with secrets and lies
- twins
- dark academia
- degradation
November 3, 2025
I got an arc of this book.
God, I think it is the best arc I ever got.
If I see the duet Knight-Oliveira as a writing duet, I buy the book. It's really that simple. And then I read the blurb and the moment I saw "5 doors. 24/7 access" I was like, ok, say no more I am gonna buy it.
I live in Europe and I pulled every mean I could master to have this book from the preorder campaign with small bookstores if that makes you realise how much I loved it.
The writer duo really knows how to deal with trauma and near death experiences and how that affects the characters and I really, REALLY, love this aspect in their books.
Sable is the most unique/mainstream character I have ever read and why? Because we all know the model "spoiled girl but she is nice" but now she has a twist. She has a dark desire that forms her into something more.
The guys? Man, the guys. I am still conflicted between Orion and Lex, Lex and Orion. I love my boys with a pinch of asshole and those two really delivered. I love the complexity of their characters, without not appreciate the rest of the boys. But those two just stole the show for me.
I didnt knew it was a series and now I am burning alive but I will live.
God, I think it is the best arc I ever got.
If I see the duet Knight-Oliveira as a writing duet, I buy the book. It's really that simple. And then I read the blurb and the moment I saw "5 doors. 24/7 access" I was like, ok, say no more I am gonna buy it.
I live in Europe and I pulled every mean I could master to have this book from the preorder campaign with small bookstores if that makes you realise how much I loved it.
The writer duo really knows how to deal with trauma and near death experiences and how that affects the characters and I really, REALLY, love this aspect in their books.
Sable is the most unique/mainstream character I have ever read and why? Because we all know the model "spoiled girl but she is nice" but now she has a twist. She has a dark desire that forms her into something more.
The guys? Man, the guys. I am still conflicted between Orion and Lex, Lex and Orion. I love my boys with a pinch of asshole and those two really delivered. I love the complexity of their characters, without not appreciate the rest of the boys. But those two just stole the show for me.
I didnt knew it was a series and now I am burning alive but I will live.
October 1, 2025
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Gothic Academy
*Some dark elements
*Elite Vs Rags
*Survivor FMC
*Troubled MMCs
*OW drama
*Established Harem (5)
*Fast Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Fast burn, fast pace and full of tension 🫣
You’re dropped into this book very suddenly and the pace doesn’t really slow from there on out 🙈 our FMC is Sable who’s father 💀 her mother then tried to 💀 them both driving off a cliff yet Sable survived and despite the rough situation it put her in had a tenacity to survive; which a scholarship to Bellthorn offers! As the blurb indicates a condition to this is that the five men surrounding her room have access to her 24/7 to do what they want as part of an offering their expected to undertake - oh boy oh boy do they get up to some kinky stuff 🌶️🔥🔥 Sable seems to go along with it (personally would have expected a little more of a fight) but it’s clear that she enjoys what these men do to her and the security it brings 🙈 there is public humiliation and drama with other women due to this to add an extra layer of tension! But honestly most of it comes from Sable and the guys! Soren wants nothing to do with the offering however Sable seems to draw him out his shell; his twin Orion is all ferocity and unwillingness to deal with his emotions yet shows up for Sable in different ways; Lex is cold, calculating and indifferent until he willing succumbs to the puzzle that is Sable; Hadrian is intriguing in being the n the sidelines but maybe the only one who treats Sable as a human and sees to her own needs; then there’s Parker who may be a master manipulator and not in control of his feelings but is doing his best with them 😅 they’re all a bit damaged but clearly have a deeper connection to Sable! It transpires there may be a little more as to why she is at Bellthorn and its that catalyst that brings us to a head with our cliffhanger 😱😱
it’s very much focused on the present; you don’t get a lot of back story to the main characters (for instance the men all recognise the FMC but it’s not really explained how; is it same social circle/schools/just because of the her circumstances etc!) you also don’t really get an answer as to why her father did what he did or if there is more to Sables place so hoping to get answers in the next book which I will 10000% be reading! 😃
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Gothic Academy
*Some dark elements
*Elite Vs Rags
*Survivor FMC
*Troubled MMCs
*OW drama
*Established Harem (5)
*Fast Burn
*Book 1 / ?
Fast burn, fast pace and full of tension 🫣
You’re dropped into this book very suddenly and the pace doesn’t really slow from there on out 🙈 our FMC is Sable who’s father 💀 her mother then tried to 💀 them both driving off a cliff yet Sable survived and despite the rough situation it put her in had a tenacity to survive; which a scholarship to Bellthorn offers! As the blurb indicates a condition to this is that the five men surrounding her room have access to her 24/7 to do what they want as part of an offering their expected to undertake - oh boy oh boy do they get up to some kinky stuff 🌶️🔥🔥 Sable seems to go along with it (personally would have expected a little more of a fight) but it’s clear that she enjoys what these men do to her and the security it brings 🙈 there is public humiliation and drama with other women due to this to add an extra layer of tension! But honestly most of it comes from Sable and the guys! Soren wants nothing to do with the offering however Sable seems to draw him out his shell; his twin Orion is all ferocity and unwillingness to deal with his emotions yet shows up for Sable in different ways; Lex is cold, calculating and indifferent until he willing succumbs to the puzzle that is Sable; Hadrian is intriguing in being the n the sidelines but maybe the only one who treats Sable as a human and sees to her own needs; then there’s Parker who may be a master manipulator and not in control of his feelings but is doing his best with them 😅 they’re all a bit damaged but clearly have a deeper connection to Sable! It transpires there may be a little more as to why she is at Bellthorn and its that catalyst that brings us to a head with our cliffhanger 😱😱
it’s very much focused on the present; you don’t get a lot of back story to the main characters (for instance the men all recognise the FMC but it’s not really explained how; is it same social circle/schools/just because of the her circumstances etc!) you also don’t really get an answer as to why her father did what he did or if there is more to Sables place so hoping to get answers in the next book which I will 10000% be reading! 😃
October 10, 2025
Nothing like what I was expecting and still devoured it.
Please check your trigger warnings because this book is not for everyone. However, if you’re a why choose reader and don’t have trigger issues I would absolutely recommend this. It is messy and drama and so many things happening that cause chaos for the main characters. It’s a ride.
Plot points I am sure will be answered in future books but currently have me screaming because there wasn’t development with them in this one. This book definitely focuses on establishing the “relationship” and all that comes with the wreck that is. Like watching a car crash in slow motion you seriously can’t look away from.
I can’t wait to see Sable be more of a queen. Soren can kick rocks. Like actually. There needs to be a great reason that happened because he’s not redeemable in my eyes are the current moment. Although I think
There were some obvious editing issues that would help make the book better but it didn’t detract from the story (at least not for me).
Please check your trigger warnings because this book is not for everyone. However, if you’re a why choose reader and don’t have trigger issues I would absolutely recommend this. It is messy and drama and so many things happening that cause chaos for the main characters. It’s a ride.
Plot points I am sure will be answered in future books but currently have me screaming because there wasn’t development with them in this one. This book definitely focuses on establishing the “relationship” and all that comes with the wreck that is. Like watching a car crash in slow motion you seriously can’t look away from.
I can’t wait to see Sable be more of a queen. Soren can kick rocks. Like actually. There needs to be a great reason that happened because he’s not redeemable in my eyes are the current moment. Although I think
There were some obvious editing issues that would help make the book better but it didn’t detract from the story (at least not for me).
October 2, 2025
Gates of Bellthorn
by Aurelia Knight, Amy Oliveira
4⭐️
3🌶️
“Gates of Bellthorn” is a Why Choose( with twins) , Dark Academia, secret society vibes, forced proximity, insta lust, secret, mystery and lies,
spicy 🥵, dark bully romance. 🖤
MFC Sable was always told to stay away from “Bellthorn” university .
She attends anyway and becomes the prey of 5 men who use , humiliate and abuse her.
She’s put a in a room with 5 doors with strange light up symbols above them and they have access to her 24/7.
Each man has their own way of torturing her mentally and sexually.
She’s definitely put through the wringer … but is such a trooper. She is also the victim of bullying by her jealous classmates/ cheerleaders.
It was an interesting story . A little slow paced and it kind of lost me a little, half way through. It does end on a cliffhanger, so I’m a little curious how this story plays out.
I received a arc copy of this book from Luna Literally PR and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
by Aurelia Knight, Amy Oliveira
4⭐️
3🌶️
“Gates of Bellthorn” is a Why Choose( with twins) , Dark Academia, secret society vibes, forced proximity, insta lust, secret, mystery and lies,
spicy 🥵, dark bully romance. 🖤
MFC Sable was always told to stay away from “Bellthorn” university .
She attends anyway and becomes the prey of 5 men who use , humiliate and abuse her.
She’s put a in a room with 5 doors with strange light up symbols above them and they have access to her 24/7.
Each man has their own way of torturing her mentally and sexually.
She’s definitely put through the wringer … but is such a trooper. She is also the victim of bullying by her jealous classmates/ cheerleaders.
It was an interesting story . A little slow paced and it kind of lost me a little, half way through. It does end on a cliffhanger, so I’m a little curious how this story plays out.
I received a arc copy of this book from Luna Literally PR and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
November 4, 2025
Plot: 5/5 • Smut: 5/5 ———> She’s nothing but a prized pig offered to serve five guys.
After surviving her father driving off a cliff with her in the car, Sable is on her own. No money. No family. Nothing. What does get is a “scholarship” to bellthorn. Only, it’s really not what she thinks. At Bellthorn she we will at service to 5 of the founding families. Day and night, beck and call.
Of course, per usual, feelings arise. There is absolute heartbreak at the very end of this and it leaves us on a cliffhanger. Soren, you’re on my shit list.
Lots of smut. Lots of group action. However, no MM. There is a group of twins amongst the 5, but other than that none of the guys are related. Very good indeed.
After surviving her father driving off a cliff with her in the car, Sable is on her own. No money. No family. Nothing. What does get is a “scholarship” to bellthorn. Only, it’s really not what she thinks. At Bellthorn she we will at service to 5 of the founding families. Day and night, beck and call.
Of course, per usual, feelings arise. There is absolute heartbreak at the very end of this and it leaves us on a cliffhanger. Soren, you’re on my shit list.
Lots of smut. Lots of group action. However, no MM. There is a group of twins amongst the 5, but other than that none of the guys are related. Very good indeed.
October 7, 2025
Oh, whyyyy do I do this to myself?! Being blessed with this ARC also means that I have to wait for the next book when ALL I want to do is keep reading! How am I going to survive this?
I loved every one of these characters and I’m ready for more of them. It’s rare than none of the characters have made me angry beyond belief by the end of book one, so needless to say … I’m impressed.
Also, still laughing how Sable was just like… YOLO IM HÖRNY! 😂
I loved every one of these characters and I’m ready for more of them. It’s rare than none of the characters have made me angry beyond belief by the end of book one, so needless to say … I’m impressed.
Also, still laughing how Sable was just like… YOLO IM HÖRNY! 😂
October 1, 2025
Mind blown!!!! I ended the book pacing with goosebumps on my arms.
If you put everything I love in a dark romance book this would be it.
Why Choose (and I love it when I love every single man in the group too it makes it *muahhh chefs kiss*)
College/academy setting
KINKY AS SHIT
ENDING INSANE
Bully
Secrets, lies, and scandals
GIVE ME MOREEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!
If you put everything I love in a dark romance book this would be it.
Why Choose (and I love it when I love every single man in the group too it makes it *muahhh chefs kiss*)
College/academy setting
KINKY AS SHIT
ENDING INSANE
Bully
Secrets, lies, and scandals
GIVE ME MOREEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!
October 8, 2025
need more!
Omg I just finished this and I immediately need the next one please!! Don’t ask me to pick a favorite guy because how could I be forced to choose when the FMC can’t even decide!
Omg I just finished this and I immediately need the next one please!! Don’t ask me to pick a favorite guy because how could I be forced to choose when the FMC can’t even decide!
October 28, 2025
Thank you for the arc!
I have noo idea what to rate this, because it was quite the mixed bag of feelings....2.5? Maybe?
The good:
The premise, story, setting and characters were interesting.
I liked that all the guys bicker and don't get along due to their massive egos.
The teamwork 😉 and twins
Soren, Parker and maybe Lex
The ehh:
Hadrian, didn't get much page time, so I'm fairly neutral on him as an MMC.
It kind of felt like the story was being improvised as it went along, it just seemed like there were very sudden things and there wasn't much long term pay off.
I also felt like there were a lot of things borrowed from other bullyverse books, especially Forsyth university.
I wish there was more world building in this. more about the history of the school, the founding families who donate, etc.
The bad:
Orion was just a bully, but maybe he can redeem himself
I was into pretty much all the tropes listed, but felt like they weren't completely accurate
There needed to be a better editor for this book.
I get that things can slip through the cracks, but the author regularly used the wrong form of your.
The start featured a lot of clunky sentences like:
"It’s Friday, and I’m waiting for Lex today."
or ",and the image of Sable Briarwick on her knees cleaning her own mess has my cock twitching when it turns into her licking herself off my cock."
I have noo idea what to rate this, because it was quite the mixed bag of feelings....2.5? Maybe?
The good:
The premise, story, setting and characters were interesting.
I liked that all the guys bicker and don't get along due to their massive egos.
The teamwork 😉 and twins
Soren, Parker and maybe Lex
The ehh:
Hadrian, didn't get much page time, so I'm fairly neutral on him as an MMC.
It kind of felt like the story was being improvised as it went along, it just seemed like there were very sudden things and there wasn't much long term pay off.
I also felt like there were a lot of things borrowed from other bullyverse books, especially Forsyth university.
I wish there was more world building in this. more about the history of the school, the founding families who donate, etc.
The bad:
Orion was just a bully, but maybe he can redeem himself
I was into pretty much all the tropes listed, but felt like they weren't completely accurate
There needed to be a better editor for this book.
I get that things can slip through the cracks, but the author regularly used the wrong form of your.
The start featured a lot of clunky sentences like:
"It’s Friday, and I’m waiting for Lex today."
or ",and the image of Sable Briarwick on her knees cleaning her own mess has my cock twitching when it turns into her licking herself off my cock."
October 22, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️���️⭐️.25
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🩵
Feelings after turning the last page: Sable NO‼️ he didn’t -- he wouldn’t — it’s not what you — OH MY GOODNESS🫠🫠🫠 *immediately adds book 2 to Goodreads*
🩵
Review: Guys this one was so much fun. Definitely check those TWs as it is dark, and some parts definitely made my stomach turn (I just want to “talk” with and and 🤭), but that just made it all the more emotional and interesting to read. I loved getting to know the guys from all their POVs and understanding who they are. They are all so different and have their own mysteries to uncover. I really enjoyed Sable’s character as well and girlfriend is going THROUGH IT in this book. We start chapter 1 with a bang and it does not let up for our girl throughout the book. There is quite a large cliffy BUT you don’t have to wait too long for book 2!! Thrones of Bellthorn comes out 1/29/26 and I can’t wait!!!
Thank you so much to @lunaliterary.management and the authors for the opportunity to read prior to release day!!!!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🩵
Feelings after turning the last page: Sable NO‼️ he didn’t -- he wouldn’t — it’s not what you — OH MY GOODNESS🫠🫠🫠 *immediately adds book 2 to Goodreads*
🩵
Review: Guys this one was so much fun. Definitely check those TWs as it is dark, and some parts definitely made my stomach turn (I just want to “talk” with and and 🤭), but that just made it all the more emotional and interesting to read. I loved getting to know the guys from all their POVs and understanding who they are. They are all so different and have their own mysteries to uncover. I really enjoyed Sable’s character as well and girlfriend is going THROUGH IT in this book. We start chapter 1 with a bang and it does not let up for our girl throughout the book. There is quite a large cliffy BUT you don’t have to wait too long for book 2!! Thrones of Bellthorn comes out 1/29/26 and I can’t wait!!!
Thank you so much to @lunaliterary.management and the authors for the opportunity to read prior to release day!!!!
September 28, 2025
On the day Sable (FMC) lost both her parents she also finds out her father was not the man she grew up thinking he was and his secrets almost drown her. With her father’s secrets and crimes she loses everything she has ever known along with every penny.
Just when she believes there is no hope and she will be stuck with her creepy uncle she receives news she was accepted not a scholarship with Bellthorn Academy. She should have known that nothing comes for free, especially with the Briarwick curse hanging over her head.
Now that she is at Bellthorn she is owned (or so they think) by Parker, Lex, Orion, Soren and now Hadrian since he has suddenly enrolled after years of the other guys not hearing from him. The founding families sons are given an Offering every year but they should have known they could not own a woman like Sable Briarwick. This year wont be like the past ones.
When all the secrets start coming out and boy do they, who will she be able to trust? They may want to protect her when they all fiend out some of the truths but will end up breaking her in the end? Will she end up breaking them all?
I usually hate being left on a cliffy but I definitely know this story could not all be told in one book and still hold the pull this one has. The this was written had me hooked from the very beginning Gand did not let me go til the last page. I mean it is seriously AMAZING!!!!! Between Sable’s cursed family, Parker’s stalking, Lex’s - well - whole personality, Orion and Soren’s twin rivalry, and then the enrollment of Hadrian with all his (hints) that when he left his did not abandon Soren his former best friend without a word? Yeah, it is definitely full of storyline and plot!!! Let’s not forget about those jealous B’s - Liliana and Arabella, Lex’s paid babysitter Cillian and Sable’s creepy uncle. There are so many players at the table that this story can go so many different ways. Can’t wait to find out more.
I have question that I know will be answered in the next book. This is how you write a first book and draw in readers to keep in suspense and doing back for more that is for sure. I know I damn sure am excited about this book and any to come. It is brilliant the way we were given crumbs in some areas and a whole meal in others. Genius Ladies purer genius!!!
Oh Aurelia and Amy, what an exquisite twisted tale you have weaved for us. I cant wait til this all comes undone one secret at a time. This story has brilliantly woven these six lives together. They have been brought together by lies and lust but we can see so much more between them all.
Now can we let our girl hand out just desserts to those that have wronged her and deserve it? Sable has worked too hard to be able to keep herself safe after what her father did. Her strength and weaknesses are what make her who she is.
Thank you Aurelia Knightt and Amy Olivera for writing this intriguing why choose with secret society. This story is full of mouth watering spice with just a such as much plot. Serious LLOOOVVEE this.
Also, thank you Luna Literary for letting me be part of this ARC and giving a new obsession.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚩🚩 (always check triggers)
Just when she believes there is no hope and she will be stuck with her creepy uncle she receives news she was accepted not a scholarship with Bellthorn Academy. She should have known that nothing comes for free, especially with the Briarwick curse hanging over her head.
Now that she is at Bellthorn she is owned (or so they think) by Parker, Lex, Orion, Soren and now Hadrian since he has suddenly enrolled after years of the other guys not hearing from him. The founding families sons are given an Offering every year but they should have known they could not own a woman like Sable Briarwick. This year wont be like the past ones.
When all the secrets start coming out and boy do they, who will she be able to trust? They may want to protect her when they all fiend out some of the truths but will end up breaking her in the end? Will she end up breaking them all?
I usually hate being left on a cliffy but I definitely know this story could not all be told in one book and still hold the pull this one has. The this was written had me hooked from the very beginning Gand did not let me go til the last page. I mean it is seriously AMAZING!!!!! Between Sable’s cursed family, Parker’s stalking, Lex’s - well - whole personality, Orion and Soren’s twin rivalry, and then the enrollment of Hadrian with all his (hints) that when he left his did not abandon Soren his former best friend without a word? Yeah, it is definitely full of storyline and plot!!! Let’s not forget about those jealous B’s - Liliana and Arabella, Lex’s paid babysitter Cillian and Sable’s creepy uncle. There are so many players at the table that this story can go so many different ways. Can’t wait to find out more.
I have question that I know will be answered in the next book. This is how you write a first book and draw in readers to keep in suspense and doing back for more that is for sure. I know I damn sure am excited about this book and any to come. It is brilliant the way we were given crumbs in some areas and a whole meal in others. Genius Ladies purer genius!!!
Oh Aurelia and Amy, what an exquisite twisted tale you have weaved for us. I cant wait til this all comes undone one secret at a time. This story has brilliantly woven these six lives together. They have been brought together by lies and lust but we can see so much more between them all.
Now can we let our girl hand out just desserts to those that have wronged her and deserve it? Sable has worked too hard to be able to keep herself safe after what her father did. Her strength and weaknesses are what make her who she is.
Thank you Aurelia Knightt and Amy Olivera for writing this intriguing why choose with secret society. This story is full of mouth watering spice with just a such as much plot. Serious LLOOOVVEE this.
Also, thank you Luna Literary for letting me be part of this ARC and giving a new obsession.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🚩🚩 (always check triggers)
October 8, 2025
*why choose
*twin brothers
*exh!bition/v0yur!sm
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Gothic academia
*college setting
Secrets, lies, scandals
*Some dark elements
*Elite Vs Rags
*Survivor FMC
*Troubled MMCs
*Fast Burn
*secret society vibes
*enemies to lovers
*Book 1/?
Fast burn, fast pace and full of tension
Bully romance
S0m no
I could not sleep!! I ate this up! This writer duo really established a nice flow and know how to work amazing together I love their books!! 🔥🥵🥵
"I'm sitting in the cuck chair and I have more dignity."
"I'll bite you, I swear to god,"
"Better make it count then, because I'm going to c*m either way."
"You may be an a**h0le, but you're pretty enough for me to sit on your 🥵."
"There's something about Sable. She brings far too many emotions to the surface, and her mere presence is enough to unravel me."
"We all care about Sable. Stop playing this sh** game and accept it. She's ours to take care of. Not because she's the Offering but because she's ours."
"They're not mythical beasts; they're flawed human men with no shortage of issues, and now I feel for them."
My mind is blown 🤯 I’m still processing this fantastic read!! This is why choose and it is hot hot hot 🥵
I love every man in that group and I’m obsessed! The twists and turns of the story, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough!
These men have access to Sable surrounding her room.. 24/7!
And man does it get k!nky 🥵
Would have loved more tension build up but I love why choose and threw myself into this and I couldn’t get enough!
Sable has lost everything. So with no other option she accepts a scholarship to Bellthorn that she never heard of or applied to unknowingly signing her life away to these 5 men.
As Sable begins to accept her new role and is tormented by Soren, Orion, Parker, Lex, and Hadrian, she learns they each have their own secrets. And making connections with them also growing their relationships, Sable finds that theres more to her families story than she ever expected. But tensions rise, and answers are given, the group's emotions run high and more betrayl is uncovered. Can Sable survive her first year at Bellthorn?
Im hooked and absolutely need the next book!!
*twin brothers
*exh!bition/v0yur!sm
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Gothic academia
*college setting
Secrets, lies, scandals
*Some dark elements
*Elite Vs Rags
*Survivor FMC
*Troubled MMCs
*Fast Burn
*secret society vibes
*enemies to lovers
*Book 1/?
Fast burn, fast pace and full of tension
Bully romance
S0m no
I could not sleep!! I ate this up! This writer duo really established a nice flow and know how to work amazing together I love their books!! 🔥🥵🥵
"I'm sitting in the cuck chair and I have more dignity."
"I'll bite you, I swear to god,"
"Better make it count then, because I'm going to c*m either way."
"You may be an a**h0le, but you're pretty enough for me to sit on your 🥵."
"There's something about Sable. She brings far too many emotions to the surface, and her mere presence is enough to unravel me."
"We all care about Sable. Stop playing this sh** game and accept it. She's ours to take care of. Not because she's the Offering but because she's ours."
"They're not mythical beasts; they're flawed human men with no shortage of issues, and now I feel for them."
My mind is blown 🤯 I’m still processing this fantastic read!! This is why choose and it is hot hot hot 🥵
I love every man in that group and I’m obsessed! The twists and turns of the story, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough!
These men have access to Sable surrounding her room.. 24/7!
And man does it get k!nky 🥵
Would have loved more tension build up but I love why choose and threw myself into this and I couldn’t get enough!
Sable has lost everything. So with no other option she accepts a scholarship to Bellthorn that she never heard of or applied to unknowingly signing her life away to these 5 men.
As Sable begins to accept her new role and is tormented by Soren, Orion, Parker, Lex, and Hadrian, she learns they each have their own secrets. And making connections with them also growing their relationships, Sable finds that theres more to her families story than she ever expected. But tensions rise, and answers are given, the group's emotions run high and more betrayl is uncovered. Can Sable survive her first year at Bellthorn?
Im hooked and absolutely need the next book!!
October 25, 2025
Wow. I was totally caught off guard by this book and this was the best! I was hooked on the first chapter itself. The introduction alone put me with my eyes open and waiting to see what mayhem would follow afterwards. The Sable does not bring you into the story slowly and makes you plunge right into the fire, and, frankly, I enjoyed every moment of it.
Initially, I did not realize my opinion about the way Sable dealt with all this. I also had to live moments when I desired her to be more aggressive or cunning, and as the story continued on, I began to empathize with her more. She is, she is making her way out of an exhaustion and survival, and even where she is not actually fighting, you can sense the power close to boiling over. She is only waiting, waiting till she has her moment, and I think it will be an epic one at that.
The book is hot (or, to be more exact, spicy ), and there is also this dark twisty tension which makes you unable to take your eyes away off the pages. I was totally overwhelmed when the bullying kicked in and the power play began to change. It was awkward at times but in a manner that allowed me to experience it all the fear, the anger, the attraction between them all.
And the guys? Whew. How complex an affair, yet in the most good-tasting manner. Parker was one that really caught my eye; he is the one I could not get out of my mind. On the contrary, I felt ambivalent about Orion. He was making me mad, and I know that there is something about him. The conflict between them and Sable is mad. One minute you feel like screaming, the next minute, you are fanning yourself, because, well... yeah.
The end still leaves so much to be desired and I cannot wait to find out the answers in the second book. Who is it who is really pulling the strings? It was something odd in that fifth room. And what is going on actually between the MMCs? I do have my theories, though I am dubious that I will not be shocked as book two drops.
In general, I think this was a very intense, emotional, spicy and full of mystery story that one just could not forget even when the story was read. I am addicted and just looking forward to what the next move would be by Sable and her guys. Bring on book two!!
arc review
Initially, I did not realize my opinion about the way Sable dealt with all this. I also had to live moments when I desired her to be more aggressive or cunning, and as the story continued on, I began to empathize with her more. She is, she is making her way out of an exhaustion and survival, and even where she is not actually fighting, you can sense the power close to boiling over. She is only waiting, waiting till she has her moment, and I think it will be an epic one at that.
The book is hot (or, to be more exact, spicy ), and there is also this dark twisty tension which makes you unable to take your eyes away off the pages. I was totally overwhelmed when the bullying kicked in and the power play began to change. It was awkward at times but in a manner that allowed me to experience it all the fear, the anger, the attraction between them all.
And the guys? Whew. How complex an affair, yet in the most good-tasting manner. Parker was one that really caught my eye; he is the one I could not get out of my mind. On the contrary, I felt ambivalent about Orion. He was making me mad, and I know that there is something about him. The conflict between them and Sable is mad. One minute you feel like screaming, the next minute, you are fanning yourself, because, well... yeah.
The end still leaves so much to be desired and I cannot wait to find out the answers in the second book. Who is it who is really pulling the strings? It was something odd in that fifth room. And what is going on actually between the MMCs? I do have my theories, though I am dubious that I will not be shocked as book two drops.
In general, I think this was a very intense, emotional, spicy and full of mystery story that one just could not forget even when the story was read. I am addicted and just looking forward to what the next move would be by Sable and her guys. Bring on book two!!
arc review
October 7, 2025
4🌟
5🌶
⚠️Check your triggers⚠️
Thank you to Aurelia Knight and Amy Oliveira for the opportunity to read this captivating story.
If you loved Noctocadia, Gothikana, or the Ruthless Boys, give this series a try!
Bellthorn Academy is not for the faint of heart, but with the read of your brave enough to venture.
Sable lost everything in a matter of hours. She learned that her whole life is a life when her father tells her that her mother dead as he drives them off a bridge. His actions left her with little option but to accept a scholarship to Bellthorn Academy that she never applied to. By doing so, she unwittingly signs her life over to the five sons of the founding families that rule the school.
But that's not the only mystery and conundrum lerking behind the Gothic fortress walls. As Sable begins to learn her new role and is tormented by Soren, Orion, Parker, Lex, and Hadrian, she discovers they each have their own secrets. While their relationship develops, Sable finds that they'd more to her families story that she ever expected. But as tensions rise and answers are given, the group's emotions run high and more betrayl is uncovered. Will Sable survive her year at Bellthorn?
This story had me for a loop. Admittedly, it bordered on too much smut for the plot, but given the crux of the story, it makes sense. The level of mystery and the number of twists left me demanding more! Follow the tidbits that are left throught out the story and the revelations become clear. I can't wait to see how Sable and the Boys come back in Book 2 after that cliffhanger!
🥀Dark Romance
💕Why Choose
🦋Gothic Academia
💝Free Use
💋Somno
🖤Bully Romance
💞Twin Brothers
❣️Exhibition/Voyeur
"There’s something about Sable. She brings far too many emotions to the surface, and her mere presence is enough to unravel me."
"We all care about Sable. Stop playing this shit game and accept it. She's ours to take care of. Not because she’s the Offering but because she’s ours.”
"They’re not mythical beasts; they’re flawed human men with no shortage of issues, and now I feel for them."
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The above opinions are my own.
5🌶
⚠️Check your triggers⚠️
Thank you to Aurelia Knight and Amy Oliveira for the opportunity to read this captivating story.
If you loved Noctocadia, Gothikana, or the Ruthless Boys, give this series a try!
Bellthorn Academy is not for the faint of heart, but with the read of your brave enough to venture.
Sable lost everything in a matter of hours. She learned that her whole life is a life when her father tells her that her mother dead as he drives them off a bridge. His actions left her with little option but to accept a scholarship to Bellthorn Academy that she never applied to. By doing so, she unwittingly signs her life over to the five sons of the founding families that rule the school.
But that's not the only mystery and conundrum lerking behind the Gothic fortress walls. As Sable begins to learn her new role and is tormented by Soren, Orion, Parker, Lex, and Hadrian, she discovers they each have their own secrets. While their relationship develops, Sable finds that they'd more to her families story that she ever expected. But as tensions rise and answers are given, the group's emotions run high and more betrayl is uncovered. Will Sable survive her year at Bellthorn?
This story had me for a loop. Admittedly, it bordered on too much smut for the plot, but given the crux of the story, it makes sense. The level of mystery and the number of twists left me demanding more! Follow the tidbits that are left throught out the story and the revelations become clear. I can't wait to see how Sable and the Boys come back in Book 2 after that cliffhanger!
🥀Dark Romance
💕Why Choose
🦋Gothic Academia
💝Free Use
💋Somno
🖤Bully Romance
💞Twin Brothers
❣️Exhibition/Voyeur
"There’s something about Sable. She brings far too many emotions to the surface, and her mere presence is enough to unravel me."
"We all care about Sable. Stop playing this shit game and accept it. She's ours to take care of. Not because she’s the Offering but because she’s ours.”
"They’re not mythical beasts; they’re flawed human men with no shortage of issues, and now I feel for them."
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The above opinions are my own.
October 8, 2025
Spice
Why Choose
Secrets/Lies
Gothic Academia
Somno
Bully
Free Use
Cliffhanger
So this book starts out with a bang. I mean the plot and all the secrets starts from page one. There is so much to uncover in this book and yet we still have so much more to learn. This book ends on a cliffhanger so know that going into this book that you will not get all the answers. What we do learn is a lot. There are so many moving parts and secrets to unlock and even the major players are missing a lot of key details. You can tell they are just as in the dark about a lot of things. They may know that our girl Sable but they are just as in the dark and maybe even more so. They get an "offering" each year. They all have free access to her and she has to conceeed to their every demand. Sable is different from the other offerings because she never signed up to be one. She never says anything to the guys about it because she does not trust them on many levels. They can be mean to her but they also feel for her in ways they never have. This adds a level of issues to the already complicated world they live in. Soren doesn't want an offering but he has a hard time staying detattached from Sable. His twin loves to use her but he and hsi brother also have a love hate relationship with each other. Then there is Lex and his alpha ways. Parker has a lot of secrets that are starting to unravel but his obsession with Sable is very much intact. I think out of all the guys, his feelings for Sable run a lot deeper then we even know. Then there is Haydrien. He has separated himself from all the guys, but has been forced back into the fray. Where all this is heading we still don't know. The secrets the lies and the twists are what keep you engaged and wanting more. There is some other woman/former friend drama that Sable is subjected to. Hopefully all these mean girls and whoever else is pulling the strings gets what is coming to them. If you are looking for a story that keeps you engaged and dying for more, then look no further.
Why Choose
Secrets/Lies
Gothic Academia
Somno
Bully
Free Use
Cliffhanger
So this book starts out with a bang. I mean the plot and all the secrets starts from page one. There is so much to uncover in this book and yet we still have so much more to learn. This book ends on a cliffhanger so know that going into this book that you will not get all the answers. What we do learn is a lot. There are so many moving parts and secrets to unlock and even the major players are missing a lot of key details. You can tell they are just as in the dark about a lot of things. They may know that our girl Sable but they are just as in the dark and maybe even more so. They get an "offering" each year. They all have free access to her and she has to conceeed to their every demand. Sable is different from the other offerings because she never signed up to be one. She never says anything to the guys about it because she does not trust them on many levels. They can be mean to her but they also feel for her in ways they never have. This adds a level of issues to the already complicated world they live in. Soren doesn't want an offering but he has a hard time staying detattached from Sable. His twin loves to use her but he and hsi brother also have a love hate relationship with each other. Then there is Lex and his alpha ways. Parker has a lot of secrets that are starting to unravel but his obsession with Sable is very much intact. I think out of all the guys, his feelings for Sable run a lot deeper then we even know. Then there is Haydrien. He has separated himself from all the guys, but has been forced back into the fray. Where all this is heading we still don't know. The secrets the lies and the twists are what keep you engaged and wanting more. There is some other woman/former friend drama that Sable is subjected to. Hopefully all these mean girls and whoever else is pulling the strings gets what is coming to them. If you are looking for a story that keeps you engaged and dying for more, then look no further.
October 23, 2025
This book was exactly what I expected and nothing like I expected simultaneously.
Sable doesn't know what to do after her father confesses to killing her mother and then drives their car off a bridge. Her father's assets were all frozen while the investigation is ongoing and the paparazzi can't get enough of her. When she receives an offer to attend Bellthorn University with a scholarship, she believes that it is her best option. However, when she arrives at Bellthorn, she quickly learns that she is not a normal student. Her room is locked and has five extra doors where five men can access her 24/7. As she goes through the semester, she learns what is expected of her as the offering, but she doesn't know anything about the contract that she supposedly signed.
I really liked Sable and I enjoyed how she was determined to make the best of her situation even when she didn't understand how she ended up there. I also really enjoyed how the guys squabbled amongst themselves especially about Sable. All of the guys were really interesting, but I especially enjoyed the dynamic between Orion and Soren. Orion was a bit of a bully and I didn't like some of the things that he did that seemed designed to humiliate Sable. Soren was definitely more hesitant when it came to Sable, but I really hope there is an explanation for his actions at the end of the book. I really enjoyed Lex's interactions with Sable. Parker was a really interesting character and I definitely want more information on his background and his secrets. Hadrian didn't get as much page time so I felt like we didn't learn as much about him, but I am very curious about the truth of what happened with Hadrian and Soren. I absolutely loved the spicy scenes and the sharing. If you like dark, why choose romance then I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
Sable doesn't know what to do after her father confesses to killing her mother and then drives their car off a bridge. Her father's assets were all frozen while the investigation is ongoing and the paparazzi can't get enough of her. When she receives an offer to attend Bellthorn University with a scholarship, she believes that it is her best option. However, when she arrives at Bellthorn, she quickly learns that she is not a normal student. Her room is locked and has five extra doors where five men can access her 24/7. As she goes through the semester, she learns what is expected of her as the offering, but she doesn't know anything about the contract that she supposedly signed.
I really liked Sable and I enjoyed how she was determined to make the best of her situation even when she didn't understand how she ended up there. I also really enjoyed how the guys squabbled amongst themselves especially about Sable. All of the guys were really interesting, but I especially enjoyed the dynamic between Orion and Soren. Orion was a bit of a bully and I didn't like some of the things that he did that seemed designed to humiliate Sable. Soren was definitely more hesitant when it came to Sable, but I really hope there is an explanation for his actions at the end of the book. I really enjoyed Lex's interactions with Sable. Parker was a really interesting character and I definitely want more information on his background and his secrets. Hadrian didn't get as much page time so I felt like we didn't learn as much about him, but I am very curious about the truth of what happened with Hadrian and Soren. I absolutely loved the spicy scenes and the sharing. If you like dark, why choose romance then I would definitely recommend giving it a try.
October 23, 2025
This definitely left me wanting more and has one of the best openings I have read in a while. Sable's story starts with a bang and the fast pace doesn't let up. I was surprised that Sable lets things happen to her for quite a lot of book and with more acceptance than I thought she would. I appreciate Sable is coming from rock bottom with little choices but I thought she would have been more sneaky and fought back more as she definitely has a backbone. Similarly I thought Sable would be more curious about her situation with the hints that the guys dropped as it was clear they knew something she didn't from the start.
The book is high spice and my engagement drifted for a bit but I was gripped when the bullying picked up and when it became clear there were more secrets to uncover than just how Sable ended up in Bellthorn. The bullying was horrid but the tension was so good! I did genuinely feel like these people could get away with anything.
There is also a lot of unanswered questions from various plot threads which have me intrigued for book two. I'm desperate to know who interfered with Soren and Hadrian (although there is one obvious candidate for me right now), who is in room five, and who is ultimately pulling the strings. Parker is probably my favourite of the MMCs at the moment (Orion is showing promise but ugh, he is one of the worst in this book); although the MMCs may be a combined front, there are definitely a few cracks starting to show and after that little show at the end the fallout is going to be epic in book two!
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
The book is high spice and my engagement drifted for a bit but I was gripped when the bullying picked up and when it became clear there were more secrets to uncover than just how Sable ended up in Bellthorn. The bullying was horrid but the tension was so good! I did genuinely feel like these people could get away with anything.
There is also a lot of unanswered questions from various plot threads which have me intrigued for book two. I'm desperate to know who interfered with Soren and Hadrian (although there is one obvious candidate for me right now), who is in room five, and who is ultimately pulling the strings. Parker is probably my favourite of the MMCs at the moment (Orion is showing promise but ugh, he is one of the worst in this book); although the MMCs may be a combined front, there are definitely a few cracks starting to show and after that little show at the end the fallout is going to be epic in book two!
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
September 30, 2025
Heads up, it ends with a cliffhanger. (I like to make a note of that right away, especially if more books haven't been released yet.) Sable finds herself in a situation that she thought was her only option, but turns out it may have been her worst mistake. When she accepted a scholarship to a university (that she hadn't applied for) she thought it was her saving grace. She was homeless and almost penniless and the opportunity couldn't have come at a better time. Unfortunately, it's not quite what she thought it was. Unbeknownst to her, by accepting, she became 'The Offering.' Meaning she is offering her body for use by the 5 men (who represent the five founding families.) She is theirs to do as they see fit and doesn't get a say in the matter. Needless to say, there is A LOT of smuttiness. It is, obviously (or not) dark. Also obviously, it is a reverse harem. There is a lot of multiple partners, but there is no swords crossing (but who knows what the next book will bring.) There is kinda a sense that maybe it will happen (or has happened) in the past. Aside from the smex, there is some mean girl antics and some secrets. The men all have some internal 'issues' that give them each their uniqueness. Each behaving differently with Sable as a result. Of course, feels start getting involved and then all hell breaks loose. The characters are all interesting and you want to get to know them better. The guys aren't necessarily 'good guys' but they do have a sense of protector when it comes to Sable... no matter how they treat her in her role of The Offering. I already mentioned it, but I'm going to mention it again... while there is a plotline... this book is all about the spice.
October 7, 2025
Overall, I liked this book. It has my favorite tropes in it. You get multiple POV from the characters, a RH, bully, CRAWL TO ME from BOTH FMC and MMCs, somno, secret society, etc.
The story is a little odd because you get her losing her parents and then she is going off to attend Bellthorn Academy. Which btw, WTF IS THAT PLACE. I do like the creepy secretive vibe it gives off. From that point on....it's literally just the guys using Sable to have their way on their day. Sable also is a bit of a confusing FMC. She is scared and shy....but then she is a huge brat and commands a room. The dynamic shifts. Maybe it's just internal that she feels that way. But it can be confusing.
I wanted to DNF it because truly, there was no plot I was getting. THEN towards the end....75% maybe? I started getting little glimmers of a plot. The actual WHY. Finally at the end, I found myself wanting to read it, instead of forcing myself through it. Also....when you get towards the end...I just want to say, I FREAKING KNEW I DIDN'T LIKE A CERTAIN CHARACTER. I want to know what is going to happen because secrets are FINALLY starting to surface and the actual plot is starting to plot. Instead of just bullying and screwing her.
This book ends on a cliffhanger. I was not aware of that when signing up for the ARC. Nor did I realize there were going to be multiple books? So also, confusing. I honestly would've been happy with just the single book like I thought this was.
That being said, the last 25% saved this book. I look forward to reading the next book when it comes out early next year to see what happens.
The story is a little odd because you get her losing her parents and then she is going off to attend Bellthorn Academy. Which btw, WTF IS THAT PLACE. I do like the creepy secretive vibe it gives off. From that point on....it's literally just the guys using Sable to have their way on their day. Sable also is a bit of a confusing FMC. She is scared and shy....but then she is a huge brat and commands a room. The dynamic shifts. Maybe it's just internal that she feels that way. But it can be confusing.
I wanted to DNF it because truly, there was no plot I was getting. THEN towards the end....75% maybe? I started getting little glimmers of a plot. The actual WHY. Finally at the end, I found myself wanting to read it, instead of forcing myself through it. Also....when you get towards the end...I just want to say, I FREAKING KNEW I DIDN'T LIKE A CERTAIN CHARACTER. I want to know what is going to happen because secrets are FINALLY starting to surface and the actual plot is starting to plot. Instead of just bullying and screwing her.
This book ends on a cliffhanger. I was not aware of that when signing up for the ARC. Nor did I realize there were going to be multiple books? So also, confusing. I honestly would've been happy with just the single book like I thought this was.
That being said, the last 25% saved this book. I look forward to reading the next book when it comes out early next year to see what happens.
October 5, 2025
We haven’t even got to the gates and we’re starting off with a bang! Our FMC Sable is going through it before she even gets to Bellthorn( she is trying to figure out how she got in). We start meeting our MMCs and boy are they ready for Sable(a few more than the others)apparently she’s a “gift” for them. We have the twins Soren and Orion( who may or may not hate each other), Lex, Parker and Hadrian. They seem to have been all friends at one point in their lives, but not so much now. These men are so complicated. Poor Sable is getting whiplash trying the keep up. Same girl. These gates are hiding so many secrets.I need to know them all immediately. I know for sure Mr All American, Parker is hiding something. This book is giving the lords series mixed with devil backbone series and throw in a bit of The Reckoning. Our girl Sable giving all these men a run for their money(whether they want to admit it or not). She is a lot stronger and smarter than they may realize. Honey now let us talk about the spice that is happening behind the gates. As I said before Sable is a gift to the men and they are allowed constant access to her( I mean she signed up for it or did she?). She is getting railed every which way and she loves it ( and so do I 🤭🤭). Let me tell you our girl is just squ*****g all over the place. She was loving all the things these men are doing to her. The group scene was 🥵🥵🥵!!As much as all the mean might not want to admit it Sable is under their skin and they want her. They are definitely proving that to her through their actions. And she feels the same. I try not( lies) to pick favorites but Lex is definitely my fav MMC. I love them all though. The last 10-12% of the book had my flabbers gasted. Aurelia and Amy y’all ain’t right for that cliffhanger. I’m was staring a my kindle dumbfounded. You teased me with goodness then you just ripped my heart out( dramatic, I know lol). My mind is swirling with theories of what could happen next. Baby I went through the gates now I need to get to Thorne. I’m ready book two like yesterday. If you would like to send it to me once it’s finished that would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance 😁😁.
October 11, 2025
This is a dark romance book with plenty of darkness - check triggers before reading.
There are some LORDS series vibes here - Gates of Bellthorn starts at Bellthorn, a school for the rich and famous. Our FMC, Sable, is brought here because she used to be a rich heiress, but her family name fell apart before she lost both of her parents in a twisted and tragic way.
Sable doesn't know why she's been invited to Bellthorn - but she soon finds herself in an.....interesting position. She is this year's Offering, a girl who must live in a room that offers 24/7 access to the Bellthorn founding families' sons. Sable feels she's in a situation she can't get out of - and she finds herself at the whim of these twisted young men who have had nothing but money and power their entire lives.
During the beginning, I found myself a little perplexed because Sable didn't sign up for this - but she seems to go with things pretty quickly. I was expecting her to be more upset and fight the guys over it, so I felt a bit conflicted. As the relationships between her and her MMCs evolve, though, that is put by the wayside, and we see her develop unique interactions with each of the men.
I love how the MMCs went from taking advantage of their "Offering" to becoming protective of Sable - the emotions behind this change are strong and compelling. The spice before and after this switch is super hot - but the moment you can see them start to feel something for her, I felt much more locked into the story.
I'm excited to see where this series goes - bring on book 2!
There are some LORDS series vibes here - Gates of Bellthorn starts at Bellthorn, a school for the rich and famous. Our FMC, Sable, is brought here because she used to be a rich heiress, but her family name fell apart before she lost both of her parents in a twisted and tragic way.
Sable doesn't know why she's been invited to Bellthorn - but she soon finds herself in an.....interesting position. She is this year's Offering, a girl who must live in a room that offers 24/7 access to the Bellthorn founding families' sons. Sable feels she's in a situation she can't get out of - and she finds herself at the whim of these twisted young men who have had nothing but money and power their entire lives.
During the beginning, I found myself a little perplexed because Sable didn't sign up for this - but she seems to go with things pretty quickly. I was expecting her to be more upset and fight the guys over it, so I felt a bit conflicted. As the relationships between her and her MMCs evolve, though, that is put by the wayside, and we see her develop unique interactions with each of the men.
I love how the MMCs went from taking advantage of their "Offering" to becoming protective of Sable - the emotions behind this change are strong and compelling. The spice before and after this switch is super hot - but the moment you can see them start to feel something for her, I felt much more locked into the story.
I'm excited to see where this series goes - bring on book 2!
October 23, 2025
Dark. Delicious. Spicy AF.
I was not prepared for this dark academy why choose romance? It was intense, twisted, unhinged deliciousness. I could not put this book down. I'm still reeling! Hold on a sec while I pick myself up after becoming a pile of melted goo from the heat this book emitted.
"An Offering...a toy to play with, no rules and no limits."
Okay, let me just start with how this book was so full of secrets and lies. The suspense kept me captivated throughout the story. It was impossible not to be hooked from beginning to end.
The characters: Amazing!
The plot: Amazing!
The dark gothic academia world: You guessed it, Amazing!
I loved everything about this book. It's so much more than the spice (which there is an abundance of) the mystery keeps getting better with each page.
I was grabbed, held captive, chewed up, spit out, and said: Thank you, can I please have some more?!
Sable is our FMC.
Our MMCs are: Twins Orion and Soren, Lex, Parker, and Hadrian. I loved how there was a different dynamic between each character. They all have their own unique morally gray broken inner turmoil that makes them intriguing. As atrocious as some of the things the guys do to Sable are, she takes it and never backs down like a true little BA. They have met their match.
Tropes:
Why Choose
FMMMMM
Twins
Explicit/Graphic
Morally-gray
Bully
Somno
Voyeur
Dubcon
Kink
Gothic Academia
Cliffhanger
Multiple POV
Check TW
I can't wait for book 2! I'm frothing at the mouth.
Thank you Luna Literary, Aurelia Knight, and Amy Oliveira for the opportunity to read this ARC.
I was not prepared for this dark academy why choose romance? It was intense, twisted, unhinged deliciousness. I could not put this book down. I'm still reeling! Hold on a sec while I pick myself up after becoming a pile of melted goo from the heat this book emitted.
"An Offering...a toy to play with, no rules and no limits."
Okay, let me just start with how this book was so full of secrets and lies. The suspense kept me captivated throughout the story. It was impossible not to be hooked from beginning to end.
The characters: Amazing!
The plot: Amazing!
The dark gothic academia world: You guessed it, Amazing!
I loved everything about this book. It's so much more than the spice (which there is an abundance of) the mystery keeps getting better with each page.
I was grabbed, held captive, chewed up, spit out, and said: Thank you, can I please have some more?!
Sable is our FMC.
Our MMCs are: Twins Orion and Soren, Lex, Parker, and Hadrian. I loved how there was a different dynamic between each character. They all have their own unique morally gray broken inner turmoil that makes them intriguing. As atrocious as some of the things the guys do to Sable are, she takes it and never backs down like a true little BA. They have met their match.
Tropes:
Why Choose
FMMMMM
Twins
Explicit/Graphic
Morally-gray
Bully
Somno
Voyeur
Dubcon
Kink
Gothic Academia
Cliffhanger
Multiple POV
Check TW
I can't wait for book 2! I'm frothing at the mouth.
Thank you Luna Literary, Aurelia Knight, and Amy Oliveira for the opportunity to read this ARC.
October 9, 2025
Gates of Bellthorn is a why choose, academic romance featuring Sable Briarwick, Parker Hollow, Orion & Soren Rook, Lex Morwen, and Hadrian Vale.
Sable was accustomed to living the good life. She grew up not wanting for anything. The day her father came to collect her from school was the day everything changed. He was not who everyone thought he was. In order to protect himself and his family, he thought unaliving them all was his only choice. Sable survived, but lost everything.
With no money, and no real family, Sable didn't question the scholarship she was offered from Bellthorn Academy. While she didn't know much about the school, she figured it was a place to go where she would have shelter and get an education, and figure out her next steps. What she didn't realize that she was being welcomed in as an offering to the sons of the founding families.
Sable was placed in a locked room where five doors open off her room providing 24/7 access to her, and her body, with no limits. Five different men, with completely different personalities, but they are all attracted to her and all too happy to play, to humiliate, to abuse...
I wasn't sure what to expect but Knight and Oliveira did not disappoint. The story was well written, revealing more about each of the characters, but not everything. There are plenty of secrets and lies and mysteries yet to be solved. The book ends on a cliffhanger, and Throne of Bellthorn looks to be coming in January 2026. I'm glad we don't have long to wait as I need to find out what happens next.
I really enjoyed this writing duo and hope to be able to discover more of their joint works in the future.
Sable was accustomed to living the good life. She grew up not wanting for anything. The day her father came to collect her from school was the day everything changed. He was not who everyone thought he was. In order to protect himself and his family, he thought unaliving them all was his only choice. Sable survived, but lost everything.
With no money, and no real family, Sable didn't question the scholarship she was offered from Bellthorn Academy. While she didn't know much about the school, she figured it was a place to go where she would have shelter and get an education, and figure out her next steps. What she didn't realize that she was being welcomed in as an offering to the sons of the founding families.
Sable was placed in a locked room where five doors open off her room providing 24/7 access to her, and her body, with no limits. Five different men, with completely different personalities, but they are all attracted to her and all too happy to play, to humiliate, to abuse...
I wasn't sure what to expect but Knight and Oliveira did not disappoint. The story was well written, revealing more about each of the characters, but not everything. There are plenty of secrets and lies and mysteries yet to be solved. The book ends on a cliffhanger, and Throne of Bellthorn looks to be coming in January 2026. I'm glad we don't have long to wait as I need to find out what happens next.
I really enjoyed this writing duo and hope to be able to discover more of their joint works in the future.
October 6, 2025
I'm not okay. This cliff about killed me. And I was so into the story that I didn't realize I was nearing the end of book 1. All of the guys other than Soren and Hadrian were pretty big jerks to Sable. So, you have to like bully romance. Sable and her reactions to them helped for the most part. She was a strong character. She gives as good as she gets sometimes. Lex surprised me. I ended up loving him the most. I loved how obsessed Parker was with her. Orion was a bit of a douche canoe but even he has his good moments. Hadrian takes care of her well. Soren denies his desire for her for quite a while. I enjoyed Sable a lot. There should be a TW for cheating. That is my one trigger. I will add that it didn't send me into a panic like it usually does. Mainly because I'm assuming there's a reason for why and how it happened and who it was. I'm hoping it is explained in book 2 quickly and I'm hoping I will forgive him for it, that there was a reason or culprit to why it happened. When you read it you'll probably come to the same conclusion. Did it ruin the book for me? No. Not at all. But it did make the cliffhanger more excruciating. 😂😳 I'm not always a fan of bully romance, but this was done in a way that I enjoyed it. Each guy had soft moments with her and that helped tremendously. It was well done. Both authors impressed me. World building was top notch.
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received a complimentary copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
September 24, 2025
Ooookay I got this as an ARC, and holy shit. 🔥🥵🌶️
First of all, how dare the authors leave me with a cliffhanger like that. I need Throne of Bellthorn ASAP! (If you’re reading this, please pick me as an ARC reader for that too so I can read it sooner 🙏🏼)
As soon as I started this book I was hooked. It was dark and SPICY.
Only giving 4 stars because I felt that sometimes it was hard to follow. For example, I would have to go back a couple pages to see what guy we were talking about or make sure I didn’t miss a page somehow.
Favorite quote: from Parker “it’s not my major, but I have a gift” I actually giggled at that.
Fuck Arabella and Lilliana. And Cillian. I hate them all.
Originally Parker was my favorite, but the stalking storyline might have me changing my mind. But still, he was like the broody, murdery golden retriever, and how can you not love that? Lex grew on me the most. I thought he would be the asshole the whole time, but he started showing a sweeter side. Orion being the first to say he was in love caught me off guard because I didn’t expect it.
I would have loved for the authors to dig a little deeper into the stalking from Parker. And showed us more of that storyline. Or given us more details. Like how it began or something more than oh yeah I’ve been stalking her forever.
First of all, how dare the authors leave me with a cliffhanger like that. I need Throne of Bellthorn ASAP! (If you’re reading this, please pick me as an ARC reader for that too so I can read it sooner 🙏🏼)
As soon as I started this book I was hooked. It was dark and SPICY.
Only giving 4 stars because I felt that sometimes it was hard to follow. For example, I would have to go back a couple pages to see what guy we were talking about or make sure I didn’t miss a page somehow.
Favorite quote: from Parker “it’s not my major, but I have a gift” I actually giggled at that.
Fuck Arabella and Lilliana. And Cillian. I hate them all.
Originally Parker was my favorite, but the stalking storyline might have me changing my mind. But still, he was like the broody, murdery golden retriever, and how can you not love that? Lex grew on me the most. I thought he would be the asshole the whole time, but he started showing a sweeter side. Orion being the first to say he was in love caught me off guard because I didn’t expect it.
I would have loved for the authors to dig a little deeper into the stalking from Parker. And showed us more of that storyline. Or given us more details. Like how it began or something more than oh yeah I’ve been stalking her forever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
ARC review for 'Gates of Bellthorn' by Aurelia Knight and Amy Oliveira
STOP what you are doing. If your comfort zone is full of dark secrets, power imbalances, and five morally gray men, you need to be at the Gates of Bellthorn Academy.
This is not a sweet boarding school romance. This is an intense, high-stakes dive into a world ruled by elite power and chilling secrets. Our heroine lands a scholarship that quickly turns into an imprisonment, finding herself locked in a room where five doors—and five brutal keepers (Lex, Parker, Orion, Soren, and Hadrian)—have constant access to her.
💀 Why this book will break you (and why you’ll love it):
Gothic, claustrophobic vibe: The atmosphere is thick with dread. The setting, an isolated academy hidden in a mountain, is its own character, demanding absolute obedience.
The power of five: If you love a complex why choose dynamic, this delivers. These men are her enemies, her tormentors, and the only path to the truth. Expect conflict, cruelty, and zero apologies.
Extreme tropes: Be aware this is DARK romance. It features heavy elements of bully romance and somno (sleep play), focusing on control and surveillance. Check your triggers!
If you like your academy romances raw, intense, and soaked in mystery, you need to sign up for Bellthorn's dark curriculum. Just don't fall asleep...
STOP what you are doing. If your comfort zone is full of dark secrets, power imbalances, and five morally gray men, you need to be at the Gates of Bellthorn Academy.
This is not a sweet boarding school romance. This is an intense, high-stakes dive into a world ruled by elite power and chilling secrets. Our heroine lands a scholarship that quickly turns into an imprisonment, finding herself locked in a room where five doors—and five brutal keepers (Lex, Parker, Orion, Soren, and Hadrian)—have constant access to her.
💀 Why this book will break you (and why you’ll love it):
Gothic, claustrophobic vibe: The atmosphere is thick with dread. The setting, an isolated academy hidden in a mountain, is its own character, demanding absolute obedience.
The power of five: If you love a complex why choose dynamic, this delivers. These men are her enemies, her tormentors, and the only path to the truth. Expect conflict, cruelty, and zero apologies.
Extreme tropes: Be aware this is DARK romance. It features heavy elements of bully romance and somno (sleep play), focusing on control and surveillance. Check your triggers!
If you like your academy romances raw, intense, and soaked in mystery, you need to sign up for Bellthorn's dark curriculum. Just don't fall asleep...
October 8, 2025
I must say that any time I see these two fantastic authors together, I AM GOING TO READ THE BOOK! Aurelia has been my one click author for a couple years now and Amy is following right behind! What’s better than having them duo a book! NOTHING! With that being said, holy moly.
This book immediately started off devastating (though some may say dark) idk what’s classified as a dark book, I’m old and just like to read! Sable’s dad showed no emotion in delivering the devastating news about her mother, then for him to want to unalive them both, not expecting Sable to live was ruthless. This throws her life into turmoil where she’s hiding out, running out of money and accepts a scholarship instead of staying with her perverted uncle. BUT, she doesn’t remember anything about this scholarship and little does she know, her world is about to be upended! Sable gets into the gates of Bellthorn and all hell breaks loose; good, bad, indifferent! She becomes the offering for the elite boys there, the spice kicks in, heat turns up, drama between the boys and just utter chaos! This is a must read and be ready for the cliffhanger that will leave you highly upset about book 2 not being out yet😂
Thank you for letting me ARC this!
This book immediately started off devastating (though some may say dark) idk what’s classified as a dark book, I’m old and just like to read! Sable’s dad showed no emotion in delivering the devastating news about her mother, then for him to want to unalive them both, not expecting Sable to live was ruthless. This throws her life into turmoil where she’s hiding out, running out of money and accepts a scholarship instead of staying with her perverted uncle. BUT, she doesn’t remember anything about this scholarship and little does she know, her world is about to be upended! Sable gets into the gates of Bellthorn and all hell breaks loose; good, bad, indifferent! She becomes the offering for the elite boys there, the spice kicks in, heat turns up, drama between the boys and just utter chaos! This is a must read and be ready for the cliffhanger that will leave you highly upset about book 2 not being out yet😂
Thank you for letting me ARC this!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ i received this as an ARC and i'm just severely behind schedule ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
When I saw this pop up, I didn’t even really read that this was going to be a duet. I just saw the gothic academy, bully romance and why choose, so I immediately wanted to get my hands on it. I'm really happy that this is being made into a duet just because there’s so much to build up on and doing it in one book would not be enough to satisfy the reader. I’ve got questions that I hope book 2 will answer for my birdbrain.
I was definitely not expecting that to be the cliffhanger but it just leaves it so open for book 2. I’m hoping that book 2 just picks up right where this one left off.
It was definitely spicy. The kind of spicy that lingers and honestly, I really enjoyed the difference between everyone. I’m 50/50 when it comes to bully romance so, I was pretty happy that this bully romance worked out for me! I love the mix of the bully romance with the dark, gothic academic setting a lot.
Words for the dear characters: Soren really should figure his shit out. Orion - just admit your feelings. Lex - I have no words. Parker, what did you do? Hadrian - figure your shit out x2 and be honest. Sable - girl be a bully back.
When I saw this pop up, I didn’t even really read that this was going to be a duet. I just saw the gothic academy, bully romance and why choose, so I immediately wanted to get my hands on it. I'm really happy that this is being made into a duet just because there’s so much to build up on and doing it in one book would not be enough to satisfy the reader. I’ve got questions that I hope book 2 will answer for my birdbrain.
I was definitely not expecting that to be the cliffhanger but it just leaves it so open for book 2. I’m hoping that book 2 just picks up right where this one left off.
It was definitely spicy. The kind of spicy that lingers and honestly, I really enjoyed the difference between everyone. I’m 50/50 when it comes to bully romance so, I was pretty happy that this bully romance worked out for me! I love the mix of the bully romance with the dark, gothic academic setting a lot.
Words for the dear characters: Soren really should figure his shit out. Orion - just admit your feelings. Lex - I have no words. Parker, what did you do? Hadrian - figure your shit out x2 and be honest. Sable - girl be a bully back.
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