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The Rules
She's the one person I can never fall in love with...
A car door slams in the driveway.
We both freeze. Still tangled together, still breathing hard. The dryer rumbles beneath us like it’s trying to rat us out.
No. Not now.
“No,” Harper whispers. “No, no, no, no.”
I can feel her heart pounding against my chest. Another door slam. Voices—Mom’s laugh, Silas’s deeper one behind it.
Our parents are back. Early.
The basement suddenly feels smaller. Hotter. The warm, reckless bubble we were in starts collapsing under the weight of reality.
Harper’s hands are still under my shirt. Mine are still on her skin. Neither of us moves.
“They’re early,” she whispers, eyes wide, lips still kiss-swollen.
I should step back. I should untangle my stepsister’s legs from around me and put actual feet of space between us before we get caught like this.
I don’t.
For three more pounding heartbeats, I kiss her deep again, lingering in the way her tongue tangles urgently against mine, memorizing the exact way her legs feel wrapped around me right now—
Before I force myself to let go.
Pulling back is the hardest thing I’ve ever done.
And the way her fingers catch in my shirt at the last second—like she doesn’t want to let go either—nearly kills me.
A dark romance stepbrother romance novel.
A car door slams in the driveway.
We both freeze. Still tangled together, still breathing hard. The dryer rumbles beneath us like it’s trying to rat us out.
No. Not now.
“No,” Harper whispers. “No, no, no, no.”
I can feel her heart pounding against my chest. Another door slam. Voices—Mom’s laugh, Silas’s deeper one behind it.
Our parents are back. Early.
The basement suddenly feels smaller. Hotter. The warm, reckless bubble we were in starts collapsing under the weight of reality.
Harper’s hands are still under my shirt. Mine are still on her skin. Neither of us moves.
“They’re early,” she whispers, eyes wide, lips still kiss-swollen.
I should step back. I should untangle my stepsister’s legs from around me and put actual feet of space between us before we get caught like this.
I don’t.
For three more pounding heartbeats, I kiss her deep again, lingering in the way her tongue tangles urgently against mine, memorizing the exact way her legs feel wrapped around me right now—
Before I force myself to let go.
Pulling back is the hardest thing I’ve ever done.
And the way her fingers catch in my shirt at the last second—like she doesn’t want to let go either—nearly kills me.
A dark romance stepbrother romance novel.
- GenresDark Romance
516 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2026
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October 3, 2025beta read🫶🏽
April 22, 2026
Plot: 4.5/5 • Spice: 2.5/5 ➡️➡️➡️ Harper and her BFF, Z, are surviving in trailer park where they live with their deadbeat parents. Harper’s estranged father comes from her after he’s gotten his life together. Harper does not want to leave Z by any means but eventually does.
Harper’s new life with her step mom and step brother seems like something out of a book. She doesn’t want to believe any of it. She turns 18 in a couple weeks so as soon as she does she’s going to run back to Z and they’ll start their life. Not romantically, strictly platonic. At least for her.
Harper and her new step brother, Caleb, are instantly
attracted to each other. They’re complete opposites. but what do they always say? Opposites attract. Caleb falls hard and fast. Harper hides her feelings but she’s on the same page as Caleb.
After refusing to let her leave, Caleb drives Harper back to east Texas to get Z. They bring him back to their home. Her step mother welcomes him with open arms. Z has feelings for Harper, but they’re still not reciprocated.
When Helen (the step mothers) cancer returns shit hits the fan. Caleb spirals. Harper stands by him. Harper’s dad makes the ultimate sacrifice. Harper and Caleb are targeted by their “friend”. Z manipulates an awful situation to benefit only him. This ends on such a sad, heartbreaking cliffy.
I made the mistake of reading the synopsis for book two. 👀👀👀👀 Holy crap. I know damn well it’s gonna get worse. Holding on until May!
Harper’s new life with her step mom and step brother seems like something out of a book. She doesn’t want to believe any of it. She turns 18 in a couple weeks so as soon as she does she’s going to run back to Z and they’ll start their life. Not romantically, strictly platonic. At least for her.
Harper and her new step brother, Caleb, are instantly
attracted to each other. They’re complete opposites. but what do they always say? Opposites attract. Caleb falls hard and fast. Harper hides her feelings but she’s on the same page as Caleb.
After refusing to let her leave, Caleb drives Harper back to east Texas to get Z. They bring him back to their home. Her step mother welcomes him with open arms. Z has feelings for Harper, but they’re still not reciprocated.
When Helen (the step mothers) cancer returns shit hits the fan. Caleb spirals. Harper stands by him. Harper’s dad makes the ultimate sacrifice. Harper and Caleb are targeted by their “friend”. Z manipulates an awful situation to benefit only him. This ends on such a sad, heartbreaking cliffy.
I made the mistake of reading the synopsis for book two. 👀👀👀👀 Holy crap. I know damn well it’s gonna get worse. Holding on until May!
March 29, 2026
“She wants to be ruined? I’ll ruin her.”
WOW! I just read my first Kora Nyx book, and nooooo … I am not okay. I am still shooketh from The Rules. I didn’t expect this romance to break me! My poor heart and mind were not prepared for this annihilation. The Rules is a storm I never saw coming, but one that wrecked my heart and soul in the most wonderful of ways. So devastatingly beautiful and brilliantly told.
This step-sibling romance stars two broken soulmates—struck by tragedy—who battle the past and perception as they become whole together.
He’s calm and calculated.
She’s chaos.
He shows her that she’s worthy.
She brings much-needed color to his gray world.
Both make each other feel everything.
I was drawn to Harper and Caleb’s undeniable pull … a connection of kismet. I was mesmerized by the depth and raw vulnerability of this hero and heroine who awaken and save each other. Caleb and Harper held my heart the whole time reading.
OMG … the angst … the push and pull … the chemistry … the intensity … the heat … I was done for! My body and soul burst into flames. I burned and broke for this book. Pure intoxication! Days later, my emotions are still raging for this forbidden and fiery romance that’s messy, but oh so meaningful.
If you like highly addictive, hold-you-prisoner, heart-pounding YA/NA romance, run and one-click this novel now! But you must try and have patience because holy mother of cliffhangers! I was rendered an emotional mess. A few tears, screams for more, and the urge to smack a villain. Well played, Kora Nyx. You created an addict for your words, AKA, ME. I NEED book two now!
💋💋💋💋💋 ruin me kisses
⏩️ https://amzn.to/4dbpXJf
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
WOW! I just read my first Kora Nyx book, and nooooo … I am not okay. I am still shooketh from The Rules. I didn’t expect this romance to break me! My poor heart and mind were not prepared for this annihilation. The Rules is a storm I never saw coming, but one that wrecked my heart and soul in the most wonderful of ways. So devastatingly beautiful and brilliantly told.
This step-sibling romance stars two broken soulmates—struck by tragedy—who battle the past and perception as they become whole together.
He’s calm and calculated.
She’s chaos.
He shows her that she’s worthy.
She brings much-needed color to his gray world.
Both make each other feel everything.
I was drawn to Harper and Caleb’s undeniable pull … a connection of kismet. I was mesmerized by the depth and raw vulnerability of this hero and heroine who awaken and save each other. Caleb and Harper held my heart the whole time reading.
OMG … the angst … the push and pull … the chemistry … the intensity … the heat … I was done for! My body and soul burst into flames. I burned and broke for this book. Pure intoxication! Days later, my emotions are still raging for this forbidden and fiery romance that’s messy, but oh so meaningful.
If you like highly addictive, hold-you-prisoner, heart-pounding YA/NA romance, run and one-click this novel now! But you must try and have patience because holy mother of cliffhangers! I was rendered an emotional mess. A few tears, screams for more, and the urge to smack a villain. Well played, Kora Nyx. You created an addict for your words, AKA, ME. I NEED book two now!
💋💋💋💋💋 ruin me kisses
⏩️ https://amzn.to/4dbpXJf
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
May 13, 2026
She knows how to survive. He makes her want to stay.
Harper comes from a life built on damage control. She’s sharp, guarded, and used to turning fear into a weapon before anyone can get close enough to hurt her. When she lands in her estranged father’s polished new home, she isn’t looking for a fresh start. She’s looking for a way back to Z, the boy who survived hell with her and still pulls at her loyalty.
Then there’s Caleb, all control, restraint, and careful rules. He should be the safe choice to avoid, the perfect stepbrother with too much to lose. But Harper gets under his skin fast, and Caleb sees too much. Not just her anger, but the tenderness she keeps buried.
What starts as tension turns into something neither of them can handle cleanly. Their connection is forbidden, obsessive, protective, and messy. Caleb wants to be chosen. Harper doesn’t know how to stay. And Z’s pull keeps dragging her toward the survival bond she’s scared to outgrow.
As secrets, family wounds, old loyalties, and consequences close in, Harper and Caleb become more than a line they shouldn’t cross. They become proof of what they’re both scared to want: safety, desire, trust, and someone who doesn’t leave.
Harper moves from guarded survival toward the possibility of wanting tenderness and a future she doesn’t have to run from. Caleb shifts from rigid control into exposed devotion that forces him to face how little he can control love or loss. Together, they build a bond where being chosen feels dangerous and necessary.
A dark, hot stepbrother romance about off-limits desire, toxic loyalty, and the difference between being needed and being chosen. It follows a girl built to run, a boy held together by rules, and a love that offers safety while every old wound tells them to leave. It’s messy, obsessive, protective, and ends on a cliffhanger.
The Elevator Pitch: When Harper is pulled from the wreckage of one life into the polished rules of another, Caleb should be the one boundary she refuses to cross. But his careful control and her feral self-protection collide into a forbidden connection neither of them can manage cleanly. As old loyalties, family secrets, and public consequences close in, wanting each other becomes the most dangerous form of truth.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥 Hot
Harper comes from a life built on damage control. She’s sharp, guarded, and used to turning fear into a weapon before anyone can get close enough to hurt her. When she lands in her estranged father’s polished new home, she isn’t looking for a fresh start. She’s looking for a way back to Z, the boy who survived hell with her and still pulls at her loyalty.
Then there’s Caleb, all control, restraint, and careful rules. He should be the safe choice to avoid, the perfect stepbrother with too much to lose. But Harper gets under his skin fast, and Caleb sees too much. Not just her anger, but the tenderness she keeps buried.
What starts as tension turns into something neither of them can handle cleanly. Their connection is forbidden, obsessive, protective, and messy. Caleb wants to be chosen. Harper doesn’t know how to stay. And Z’s pull keeps dragging her toward the survival bond she’s scared to outgrow.
As secrets, family wounds, old loyalties, and consequences close in, Harper and Caleb become more than a line they shouldn’t cross. They become proof of what they’re both scared to want: safety, desire, trust, and someone who doesn’t leave.
Harper moves from guarded survival toward the possibility of wanting tenderness and a future she doesn’t have to run from. Caleb shifts from rigid control into exposed devotion that forces him to face how little he can control love or loss. Together, they build a bond where being chosen feels dangerous and necessary.
A dark, hot stepbrother romance about off-limits desire, toxic loyalty, and the difference between being needed and being chosen. It follows a girl built to run, a boy held together by rules, and a love that offers safety while every old wound tells them to leave. It’s messy, obsessive, protective, and ends on a cliffhanger.
The Elevator Pitch: When Harper is pulled from the wreckage of one life into the polished rules of another, Caleb should be the one boundary she refuses to cross. But his careful control and her feral self-protection collide into a forbidden connection neither of them can manage cleanly. As old loyalties, family secrets, and public consequences close in, wanting each other becomes the most dangerous form of truth.
Heat Level: 🔥🔥 Hot
May 18, 2026
It’s a slow burn to start with leading us into Harper’s story. Her past life and her new one, some of her past pulling into her future. Her concealed love for her step-brother seems to be the light she needs. Caleb controls his own complex mind through rules, he uses to follow to keep him in centred, on the right path except where Harper is concerned, her touch has the ability to ground him. Her found family, her hoping she can settle without thinking she isn’t good enough, that she isn’t like her alcoholic mother or her in and it out of prison father who seems to be on the straight and narrow with this new family. But is it all a pipe dream? Can she actually be a better person?
𝐈'𝐦 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭.
Kora has written this beautifully, it flows effortlessly through Harper’s life, giving us hope for her, the trailer trash girl gets a break at last. The taboo relationship narrated to perfection without it seeming sleazy, the spice between the pair is hot and I loved the way they flowed together with a comfortable ease. All the characters within the story are portrayed brilliantly, it’s difficult to explain how committed you feel like you are a part of their life within the pages. BUT gosh! That ending 🫣🤯
𝐈'𝐦 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐫𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭.
Kora has written this beautifully, it flows effortlessly through Harper’s life, giving us hope for her, the trailer trash girl gets a break at last. The taboo relationship narrated to perfection without it seeming sleazy, the spice between the pair is hot and I loved the way they flowed together with a comfortable ease. All the characters within the story are portrayed brilliantly, it’s difficult to explain how committed you feel like you are a part of their life within the pages. BUT gosh! That ending 🫣🤯
Review of advance copy received from Author
Harper's story in Rules & Ruin 1 is the beginning of an intense, chaotic, and emotionally harrowing journey, where every decision is driven by the struggle for survival, from the start, we meet Harper a strong, sarcastic and angry girl, shaped by a harsh environment that never gave her the chance to simply be a teenager, behind her tough exterior lies pain, fear and a constant desire to escape the life she was dealt.
By her side is Z her refuge and the only person who truly understands her, their relationship is deep, built on shared pain, loyalty and the need to not be alone, they both dream of running away, of starting over far from everything that has scarred them, however this connection is also fraught with uncertainty, unresolved feelings, and decisions that could change everything.
Everything takes a turn when Silas Harper's father, abruptly enters her life, although he arrives to rescue her from a dangerous situation, he also forces her to abandon the only place she's ever known Z this moment completely shatters Harper's equilibrium and marks a turning point in the story, filled with helplessness and pain. The transition to a new life is radical, Harper goes from surviving in a hostile environment to a world of privilege, rules and appearances where she doesn't fit in, this is where Caleb enters the picture a character who adds a new layer to the story, unlike anything Harper has ever known, Caleb represents control, stability and a completely different world he is intelligent, reserved and seemingly perfect but he also possesses an intensity that is palpable in every interaction with Harper.
The relationship between Harper and Caleb is marked by constant tension from the very beginning, there is a clash between them two opposing worlds that shouldn't understand each other but that inevitably draw together, Caleb is not an easy character to understand and that makes him all the more interesting. With him Harper confronts new emotions, a different kind of connection, more restrained but equally intense, that challenges everything she thought she knew about herself.
Throughout the story Harper struggles between her past and present, between what she left behind with Z and what begins to emerge with Caleb, this internal conflict is one of the book's strongest points because it shows how difficult it is to let go, heal and allow yourself to feel something new when wounds are still open. And then the ending arrives and it simply leaves you breathless, just when you begin to feel that Harper is finding a new equilibrium, that she might slowly begin to rebuild herself, the story takes that twist that changes everything, it's one of those endings that leaves you silent for a few seconds, processing what just happened, with a mixture of shock, frustration, and an urgent need to continue the story.
It leaves you with too many questions, with raw emotions, and with that feeling that nothing is truly resolved. And that, although it hurts, is precisely what makes the book so addictive. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
By her side is Z her refuge and the only person who truly understands her, their relationship is deep, built on shared pain, loyalty and the need to not be alone, they both dream of running away, of starting over far from everything that has scarred them, however this connection is also fraught with uncertainty, unresolved feelings, and decisions that could change everything.
Everything takes a turn when Silas Harper's father, abruptly enters her life, although he arrives to rescue her from a dangerous situation, he also forces her to abandon the only place she's ever known Z this moment completely shatters Harper's equilibrium and marks a turning point in the story, filled with helplessness and pain. The transition to a new life is radical, Harper goes from surviving in a hostile environment to a world of privilege, rules and appearances where she doesn't fit in, this is where Caleb enters the picture a character who adds a new layer to the story, unlike anything Harper has ever known, Caleb represents control, stability and a completely different world he is intelligent, reserved and seemingly perfect but he also possesses an intensity that is palpable in every interaction with Harper.
The relationship between Harper and Caleb is marked by constant tension from the very beginning, there is a clash between them two opposing worlds that shouldn't understand each other but that inevitably draw together, Caleb is not an easy character to understand and that makes him all the more interesting. With him Harper confronts new emotions, a different kind of connection, more restrained but equally intense, that challenges everything she thought she knew about herself.
Throughout the story Harper struggles between her past and present, between what she left behind with Z and what begins to emerge with Caleb, this internal conflict is one of the book's strongest points because it shows how difficult it is to let go, heal and allow yourself to feel something new when wounds are still open. And then the ending arrives and it simply leaves you breathless, just when you begin to feel that Harper is finding a new equilibrium, that she might slowly begin to rebuild herself, the story takes that twist that changes everything, it's one of those endings that leaves you silent for a few seconds, processing what just happened, with a mixture of shock, frustration, and an urgent need to continue the story.
It leaves you with too many questions, with raw emotions, and with that feeling that nothing is truly resolved. And that, although it hurts, is precisely what makes the book so addictive. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 17, 2026
The Rules is the first book in a duet series. This is my first book by the author and I have to say, I was surprised on how much I enjoyed this.
I should note, to me, this wasn't a dark romance and the cover is sightly misleading. The MMC isn't a dark Hero, nor is he the bad-boy type that the cover makes you believe (at least with me), BUT that is okay. It actually turned out better than expected.
This is a drama romance with a good-boy / bad-girl kind of romance vibe. I'm usually not into FMC who have a chip on their shoulder, but Harper was written fairly well. She lives in a trailer park with her single mom. Her step-dad is a perv and she finds solace with her guy best-friend Z. I actually would have appreciated Z's POV, just to get a little of his justification for his behavior, he was painted as the obstacle in the book (a little too annoying at times, but I get it, there needs to be tension).
Harper's father takes Harper back to live with her Dad in Dallas. Harper will share a house with Caleb (the stepson) and the new mom, stepmom. The stepmom was a sweet character too and I appreciated the balance of tension. I love it when there is a balance of good characters and bad (not so great) characters.
The best part of the read for me was Caleb. He's the good-boy, guy next door type. He follows the rules and does his best to get top grades and land a spot to Harvard. I really liked Caleb, I found him endearing and his OCD traits made me want to give him a big hug.
The relationship between Harper and Caleb was very adorable and sweet.
This could have easily been a five star read for me, BUT with the last minute tension written towards the end, I just kind of cringed at the change of tone. It was a relatively light read, which turned slightly dramatic for the sake of a cliffy. I get it, that's the whole point of a duet right? BUT I didn't like the dramatic change of tone.
I will continue to the next book and if the tone is still intense, I'll have to skim it, instead of read it. But we shall see.
I should note, to me, this wasn't a dark romance and the cover is sightly misleading. The MMC isn't a dark Hero, nor is he the bad-boy type that the cover makes you believe (at least with me), BUT that is okay. It actually turned out better than expected.
This is a drama romance with a good-boy / bad-girl kind of romance vibe. I'm usually not into FMC who have a chip on their shoulder, but Harper was written fairly well. She lives in a trailer park with her single mom. Her step-dad is a perv and she finds solace with her guy best-friend Z. I actually would have appreciated Z's POV, just to get a little of his justification for his behavior, he was painted as the obstacle in the book (a little too annoying at times, but I get it, there needs to be tension).
Harper's father takes Harper back to live with her Dad in Dallas. Harper will share a house with Caleb (the stepson) and the new mom, stepmom. The stepmom was a sweet character too and I appreciated the balance of tension. I love it when there is a balance of good characters and bad (not so great) characters.
The best part of the read for me was Caleb. He's the good-boy, guy next door type. He follows the rules and does his best to get top grades and land a spot to Harvard. I really liked Caleb, I found him endearing and his OCD traits made me want to give him a big hug.
The relationship between Harper and Caleb was very adorable and sweet.
This could have easily been a five star read for me, BUT with the last minute tension written towards the end, I just kind of cringed at the change of tone. It was a relatively light read, which turned slightly dramatic for the sake of a cliffy. I get it, that's the whole point of a duet right? BUT I didn't like the dramatic change of tone.
I will continue to the next book and if the tone is still intense, I'll have to skim it, instead of read it. But we shall see.
May 6, 2026
4.5 Stars
The Rules is written by Kora Nyx, a new-to-me author I found on Tiktok. I decided to give the book a shot and went in blind. This book is a dark stepbrother romance. I love me a good taboo-ish book. I wasn’t sure what I was expecting when I began reading, but she had me hooked within the first chapter.
The book focuses on three main characters: Harper, her best friend Z, and Caleb, her stepbrother. Harper is the product of raw, ugly instability. Raised in a trailer park by an addict mother and a rotation of disgusting men, she runs on pure survival instinct. She uses her rebellion as a shield, allowing only Z to be close. Z, growing up in the same area, has to deal with an abusive father and pure neglect. Together, they form a pact to marry to escape their home situation. But life has other plans.
When Harper’s real dad comes for her, leaving her best friend behind, she moves into a big house with her new stepmother and stepbrother. Caleb, as a defense mechanism, creates an ever-growing list of “rules” to project the appearance of perfection for his ill mom. This rigid structure and protective nature offer Harper the first genuine experience in safety she has ever known. Together, they see things in each other that draw them to each other. Harper’s chaotic and rebellious nature and Caleb’s secure and stable life.
The presence of Z complicates the dynamic. Harper’s loyalty is called into question as her connection with Caleb grows more intense. Z sees Harper as a means to escape his traumatic life, but sadly, it is only keeping them tethered to a cycle of poverty and danger.
This story had me in a chokehold, and that ending had my jaw on the floor!! I was shookith! LOL. Oh, and there is another book releasing soon called The Ruins!! I can’t wait!!
Thanks to Kora Nyx for gifting me an eARC of The Rules. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Rules is written by Kora Nyx, a new-to-me author I found on Tiktok. I decided to give the book a shot and went in blind. This book is a dark stepbrother romance. I love me a good taboo-ish book. I wasn’t sure what I was expecting when I began reading, but she had me hooked within the first chapter.
The book focuses on three main characters: Harper, her best friend Z, and Caleb, her stepbrother. Harper is the product of raw, ugly instability. Raised in a trailer park by an addict mother and a rotation of disgusting men, she runs on pure survival instinct. She uses her rebellion as a shield, allowing only Z to be close. Z, growing up in the same area, has to deal with an abusive father and pure neglect. Together, they form a pact to marry to escape their home situation. But life has other plans.
When Harper’s real dad comes for her, leaving her best friend behind, she moves into a big house with her new stepmother and stepbrother. Caleb, as a defense mechanism, creates an ever-growing list of “rules” to project the appearance of perfection for his ill mom. This rigid structure and protective nature offer Harper the first genuine experience in safety she has ever known. Together, they see things in each other that draw them to each other. Harper’s chaotic and rebellious nature and Caleb’s secure and stable life.
The presence of Z complicates the dynamic. Harper’s loyalty is called into question as her connection with Caleb grows more intense. Z sees Harper as a means to escape his traumatic life, but sadly, it is only keeping them tethered to a cycle of poverty and danger.
This story had me in a chokehold, and that ending had my jaw on the floor!! I was shookith! LOL. Oh, and there is another book releasing soon called The Ruins!! I can’t wait!!
Thanks to Kora Nyx for gifting me an eARC of The Rules. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 8, 2026
This Book hooked me from the very beginning & was a very emotional book to read! It does leave you hanging...but definitely read Book 2, The Ruins, it will make it worth the wait.
This book does deal with a stebsibling relationship, but I was surprised at how much more there was to the book than that!!!
Harper & Z grew up in a trailer park together... and were really all each other had... until her Dad took her to live with his new family... and it was a rough adjustment for her after fending for herself for so long...
I really loved Caleb's Mom... and so glad that Harper got to experience having a bit of a normal family life & have parents for a little while at least... and it's interesting to see how her Dad really has made a change & is finally trying to be a good parent to her... (a bit late at 17... but at least he's doing it)
You really want to feel bad for Z... he's has a rough life... but it isn't long until you start seeing his true colors & it made me so mad at him! LOL (Yes, I know it's a book... I get emotional reading books like this, but that's one of the marks of a well written book that I get so invested in it!!)
I love Caleb... and feel so much for him!! Love the time that Caleb & Harper have together, as short as it is... 🤩
The books are fast paced & well written, very complex... a lot more than I expected when I first started reading them.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*dark romance
*stepbrother/stepsister relationship
*coming of age/YA/New adult
*MMC's Mom has cancer
*FMC's Mom is an addict & her Dad has been in & out of prison & not around much until her Senior year of high school
*first half of a Duet
*love triangle
*ends in a cliffhanger
Thank you to the author (Kora Nyx) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
This book does deal with a stebsibling relationship, but I was surprised at how much more there was to the book than that!!!
Harper & Z grew up in a trailer park together... and were really all each other had... until her Dad took her to live with his new family... and it was a rough adjustment for her after fending for herself for so long...
I really loved Caleb's Mom... and so glad that Harper got to experience having a bit of a normal family life & have parents for a little while at least... and it's interesting to see how her Dad really has made a change & is finally trying to be a good parent to her... (a bit late at 17... but at least he's doing it)
You really want to feel bad for Z... he's has a rough life... but it isn't long until you start seeing his true colors & it made me so mad at him! LOL (Yes, I know it's a book... I get emotional reading books like this, but that's one of the marks of a well written book that I get so invested in it!!)
I love Caleb... and feel so much for him!! Love the time that Caleb & Harper have together, as short as it is... 🤩
The books are fast paced & well written, very complex... a lot more than I expected when I first started reading them.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*dark romance
*stepbrother/stepsister relationship
*coming of age/YA/New adult
*MMC's Mom has cancer
*FMC's Mom is an addict & her Dad has been in & out of prison & not around much until her Senior year of high school
*first half of a Duet
*love triangle
*ends in a cliffhanger
Thank you to the author (Kora Nyx) & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
May 11, 2026
The Rules was a heartbreaking story... in all the ways.
Harper has had a rough life, left to be raised by her mom and whatever boyfriend she's currently with, in a trailer home. Her mother, not really the mom type. Harper is basically left to fend for herself finding food. But she doesn't have the worst of it. Because her best friend Z is living basically the same life as her, except his father is abusive and loves to take his anger out on Z. So not only does she try to survive herself, but she tries to help keep Z alive as well. making sure that when she steals food, she steals enough for them both and making sure that he eats. Until her father shows up. He takes Harper to live with him and his new wife and step son. Harper is heartbroken, as she made a pact with Z that as soon as they turn 18 in a few months, they'll get married, emancipated from their parents, and start their lives together, looking after one another, as they've always done. But now, Harper has to play family with her father's new family, except, once she meets her step brother Caleb, that all changes. She sees a life of possibilities, chances she was never given, and someone who makes her feel whole and loved. Through it all though, she never forgets Z and still plans to rescue him. But rescuing him may cost her everything!!
I was not prepared for the way this ended. I just knew he was bad to his core. I know Harper is hurting and blinded by everything right now to see the truth, but I hope she pulls it together and gets revenge in book 2.
This story sucked me in right from the beginning. Caleb with his severe OCD and rules to help keep things in order. Z with all his chaos and destruction. Harper, with all her character growth. She grew sooooo much in this story. I loved that for her. I love who she's becoming. I can't wait for the next one!!
Harper has had a rough life, left to be raised by her mom and whatever boyfriend she's currently with, in a trailer home. Her mother, not really the mom type. Harper is basically left to fend for herself finding food. But she doesn't have the worst of it. Because her best friend Z is living basically the same life as her, except his father is abusive and loves to take his anger out on Z. So not only does she try to survive herself, but she tries to help keep Z alive as well. making sure that when she steals food, she steals enough for them both and making sure that he eats. Until her father shows up. He takes Harper to live with him and his new wife and step son. Harper is heartbroken, as she made a pact with Z that as soon as they turn 18 in a few months, they'll get married, emancipated from their parents, and start their lives together, looking after one another, as they've always done. But now, Harper has to play family with her father's new family, except, once she meets her step brother Caleb, that all changes. She sees a life of possibilities, chances she was never given, and someone who makes her feel whole and loved. Through it all though, she never forgets Z and still plans to rescue him. But rescuing him may cost her everything!!
I was not prepared for the way this ended. I just knew he was bad to his core. I know Harper is hurting and blinded by everything right now to see the truth, but I hope she pulls it together and gets revenge in book 2.
This story sucked me in right from the beginning. Caleb with his severe OCD and rules to help keep things in order. Z with all his chaos and destruction. Harper, with all her character growth. She grew sooooo much in this story. I loved that for her. I love who she's becoming. I can't wait for the next one!!
May 22, 2026
Harper lives in a trailer park with her mum who really doesn't seem to care. Darlene is an alcoholic and doesn't seem aware that her latest boyfriend is acting creepily towards her daughter Harper but it isn't the first one and probably wouldn't have been the last if it wasn't for the fact that her father came to take her home with him. Apparently Darlene was actually aware but instead of kicking out her boyfriend she had Harper removed instead.
This should have been a turning point for Harper. Her father is an ex con that is actually doing quite well for himself. Married to a woman with money, and a stepson he seemed to have turned his life around although Harper doesn't trust it. She also just wants to return home to her best friend Z, to rescue him from his abusive father.
Living with her father and his new family is also challenging as she has an attraction towards her stepbrother and he feels the same. Her stepbrother Caleb is a golden boy, good reputation, intelligent, seems to be on track for Harvard but lives his life to a strict set of rules. Self inflicted rules that once Harper comes to stay grow by the day as he knows he can't act on his ever growing feelings towards his stepsister.
Overall this book was excellent. It really grabbed my attention and although the relationship between the 2 main characters was tabboo I was still rooting for them. As this book drew to an end all of a sudden a lot of stuff happened and none of it good. This culminated in the most brutal cliffhanger I have ever read. I am totally wrecked and I am so glad I waited for book 2 to be released before reading this. Make sure you have the next book lined up ready to go, waiting to read the conclusion would be just too nerve wracking!
This should have been a turning point for Harper. Her father is an ex con that is actually doing quite well for himself. Married to a woman with money, and a stepson he seemed to have turned his life around although Harper doesn't trust it. She also just wants to return home to her best friend Z, to rescue him from his abusive father.
Living with her father and his new family is also challenging as she has an attraction towards her stepbrother and he feels the same. Her stepbrother Caleb is a golden boy, good reputation, intelligent, seems to be on track for Harvard but lives his life to a strict set of rules. Self inflicted rules that once Harper comes to stay grow by the day as he knows he can't act on his ever growing feelings towards his stepsister.
Overall this book was excellent. It really grabbed my attention and although the relationship between the 2 main characters was tabboo I was still rooting for them. As this book drew to an end all of a sudden a lot of stuff happened and none of it good. This culminated in the most brutal cliffhanger I have ever read. I am totally wrecked and I am so glad I waited for book 2 to be released before reading this. Make sure you have the next book lined up ready to go, waiting to read the conclusion would be just too nerve wracking!
Review of advance copy received from Author
😭😮💨 I am emotionally wrecked is that a spoiler or a warning?
😮💨 I wish I had book 2 right now (it IS a duet) there is a giant cliffie and my heart was broken before we even went over the edge.
This is my first book by this author— I stumbled on her ARC sign up, and the premise of the book resonated with me.
🌶️ Spice level | 1 1/2 on page everyone is 18.
🛑 Some trigger warnings for attempted SA of FMC not by any MCs. Child abuse, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, addiction. 🛑
📖 Story line | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Well written, well paced.
👩🏻👦🏻 Characters | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Raw, Realistic, easy to empathize with.
🔤📖 Writing | Few errors, some minor edits remain but nowhere near so many indie books I’ve read of late, I don’t feel they interfered with the enjoyment of the story.
Story is told in dual POV.
📖 Tropes 📖
Step-Sibling Romance
Found Family
Forced Proximity
Secret Relationship
Taboo Relationship
Dark Romance
Early Adult
📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖
Character’s feel very realistic down to trauma responses, broken family dynamics and how one might pick up the broken bits and try to go forward.
The MMC has OCD and I feel this was written really well and felt very realistic. I never found myself scanning past his ticks — I went through them and experienced them with him and my heart cracked a little each time for him.
Broken people can either try to help you up or pull you down so they’re not alone, the FMC gets to meet several people who are prime examples of this and we get to feel her own struggle with it and what kind of person she wants to be. 😮💨 really hoping for a HEA in book 2.
😮💨 I wish I had book 2 right now (it IS a duet) there is a giant cliffie and my heart was broken before we even went over the edge.
This is my first book by this author— I stumbled on her ARC sign up, and the premise of the book resonated with me.
🌶️ Spice level | 1 1/2 on page everyone is 18.
🛑 Some trigger warnings for attempted SA of FMC not by any MCs. Child abuse, drug abuse, alcohol abuse, addiction. 🛑
📖 Story line | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Well written, well paced.
👩🏻👦🏻 Characters | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Raw, Realistic, easy to empathize with.
🔤📖 Writing | Few errors, some minor edits remain but nowhere near so many indie books I’ve read of late, I don’t feel they interfered with the enjoyment of the story.
Story is told in dual POV.
📖 Tropes 📖
Step-Sibling Romance
Found Family
Forced Proximity
Secret Relationship
Taboo Relationship
Dark Romance
Early Adult
📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖📖
Character’s feel very realistic down to trauma responses, broken family dynamics and how one might pick up the broken bits and try to go forward.
The MMC has OCD and I feel this was written really well and felt very realistic. I never found myself scanning past his ticks — I went through them and experienced them with him and my heart cracked a little each time for him.
Broken people can either try to help you up or pull you down so they’re not alone, the FMC gets to meet several people who are prime examples of this and we get to feel her own struggle with it and what kind of person she wants to be. 😮💨 really hoping for a HEA in book 2.
May 11, 2026
They didn't just break the rules, they obliterated them.
Very dark and sexually explicit romance about step siblings, with no shared parent I feel compelled to add. The FMC, Harper, grew up in a small southern Texas town trailer park. Caleb grew up, well let's just say on the other side of the tracks. Prep school, debate team, and Harvard bound. Both of them have their own issues, to put it kindly, but when their lives implode it is a spectacular conflagration, events neither of them could have predicted lead to circumstances they didn't see coming.
The main characters are high school students, seniors, and pretty typically angsty. The FMC and MMC fall in love and have no idea wat kind of sh*# show is brewing behind their backs. Their story had me riveted from the first page, and while I was kinda rooting for them, I was also always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Anger, betrayal, drug and alcohol use, sexual assault, as well as some surprising and unexpected twist and turns in the plot, and a cliffhanger that left me reeling. This book made me laugh and cry and thank goodness that I was in high school long before cell phones were a thing. While this book might not be for everyone, I enjoyed it and will gladly recommend it to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.
Very dark and sexually explicit romance about step siblings, with no shared parent I feel compelled to add. The FMC, Harper, grew up in a small southern Texas town trailer park. Caleb grew up, well let's just say on the other side of the tracks. Prep school, debate team, and Harvard bound. Both of them have their own issues, to put it kindly, but when their lives implode it is a spectacular conflagration, events neither of them could have predicted lead to circumstances they didn't see coming.
The main characters are high school students, seniors, and pretty typically angsty. The FMC and MMC fall in love and have no idea wat kind of sh*# show is brewing behind their backs. Their story had me riveted from the first page, and while I was kinda rooting for them, I was also always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Anger, betrayal, drug and alcohol use, sexual assault, as well as some surprising and unexpected twist and turns in the plot, and a cliffhanger that left me reeling. This book made me laugh and cry and thank goodness that I was in high school long before cell phones were a thing. While this book might not be for everyone, I enjoyed it and will gladly recommend it to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a step-sibling romance with a heavy emphasis on the taboo element of them being step-siblings. While I never find this trope to be problematic, this book wants you to feel the forbidden nature of it. So much so, anyone finding out, implies catastrophic consequences! Outside of that, you have two teenagers from different sides of the tracks, so to speak, with traumatic pasts that find one another. He has what appears to be a severe case of obsessive compulsive disorder that developed out of a need to exert control over his environment. Harper has spent her entire 17 years on this earth surviving. When she is unexpectedly removed from her home and her best friend, we bear witness to her breaking and breaking some more. Caleb, dear sweet Caleb, doesn't necessarily want to save her, but to show her she is worthy of love. He gives and he gives without asking anything in return. His love is that pure untainted kind that we wish we could go back to before we became jaded by knowledge and life.
The author warns readers about a toxic love. You won't see it until the end, but when you do, it's a bit of a mind trip. Prepare yourselves. This book does end on a cliffy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The author warns readers about a toxic love. You won't see it until the end, but when you do, it's a bit of a mind trip. Prepare yourselves. This book does end on a cliffy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 5, 2026
This is the first book in a duet. Harper has a rough life. Her mother is a drunk and invites strange men over that she needs to hide from and fight off. Her best friend Z is being physically and verbally abused by his dad. Z is being starved and tortured. These two can’t wait to graduate and run away. However, before that can happen Harper’s father has apparently cleaned himself up and is now doing pretty well. He takes Harper with him to a new place and a new private school. Harper is a tough talking bright young lady and she clashes with her classmates in an English class but Caleb a very handsome shy young man tries to smooth things out and make peace. But right after school Harper lays a big kiss on him and steals his wallet trying to get back to Z, only for her father to arrive and introduce her to he4 stepbrother Caleb. The dichotomy between these two is so bizarre. Harper is chaos and loud and a whirlwind of trouble. Caleb has a severe case of OCD and anxiety. He tries to be the perfect son, not make waves, smooth ruffled feathers. This book is a very emotional story, wit( heartache, action, spice and lots of tension. This book does end on a cliffhanger so be prepared for that.
May 6, 2026
I’m a little torn on this book because I liked the concept of the FMC being the “bad girl”, in most step sibling romances it’s the MMC shown as the “bad guy”. I was excited because I liked that change. And that part was well written. However, the ending felt rushed. I guess it was probably to escalate the cliff hanger but even still, the fact that Harper just believed Z and went with him kind of threw me. Helen had said over and over again “you don’t give up on family”. So even after all of that Harper just left. And with Caleb’s OCD the idea that he wouldn’t know Harper’s phone number by heart and have a million different ways to remember it seemed silly. And the plot hole that the school didn’t have inside cameras for “privacy reasons” is also ridiculous. I graduated a long time ago and we had camera that were going 24/7 and I went to a public school… so a private academy would definitely always know who was coming and going at all times… maybe I’m thinking too much into it but it wasn’t a believable ending. Will I read book two? Yes. Even though the synopsis seems silly. I’m just glad I won’t have to wait months for its release. Hopefully it redeems this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2026
Expect devastation!
Harper lives with her mother in a trailer park after her dad went to prison years ago while trying to avoid her mother’s latest boyfriend. She escapes to her best friend Z’s trailer who is abused by his dad who is a cop. The two of them hatch a plan when Harper turns 18, they’ll marry and escape the hell they are both living in. Yet when Harper’s now reformed dad steps in to take Harper to live with him, his wealthy wife and stepson Caleb, it puts a damper on their plans. Harper struggles fitting in at her new private school and immediately has a run-in with Caleb who she discovers is her stepbrother. Add in the rescue of an adorable kitten, and there’s a whole lot of complications to weed through. But underlying it all is the sizzling electricity between Harper and Caleb that complicates Harper’s plans to rescue Z. Caleb comes up with a new plan that almost seems perfect, except it is definitely not what Z wanted. Add in a rival gang, a high school female’s retaliation on Harper, Harper’s father undying love of his daughter, Harper’s stepmom’s health, Z wreaking havoc and you’ll be turning the pages to see how it all implodes?
Harper lives with her mother in a trailer park after her dad went to prison years ago while trying to avoid her mother’s latest boyfriend. She escapes to her best friend Z’s trailer who is abused by his dad who is a cop. The two of them hatch a plan when Harper turns 18, they’ll marry and escape the hell they are both living in. Yet when Harper’s now reformed dad steps in to take Harper to live with him, his wealthy wife and stepson Caleb, it puts a damper on their plans. Harper struggles fitting in at her new private school and immediately has a run-in with Caleb who she discovers is her stepbrother. Add in the rescue of an adorable kitten, and there’s a whole lot of complications to weed through. But underlying it all is the sizzling electricity between Harper and Caleb that complicates Harper’s plans to rescue Z. Caleb comes up with a new plan that almost seems perfect, except it is definitely not what Z wanted. Add in a rival gang, a high school female’s retaliation on Harper, Harper’s father undying love of his daughter, Harper’s stepmom’s health, Z wreaking havoc and you’ll be turning the pages to see how it all implodes?
May 19, 2026
Here we are again Squirrel Friends!
The Rules Kora Nyx had me so tangled in emotion that I could not stand it. One minute I’m questioning my life choices, the next sobbing. This book is basically what happens when tension, bad decisions, emotional damage, and chemistry get locked in a room together and told to “figure it out.”
The banter? Top tier. The spice? Aggressive. The emotional whiplash? Absolutely disrespectful. I spent half the book feeling like I was in on a dirty little secret and the other half SCREAMING absolutely FUCCCCKK this asshole! (You’ll see when you read it.) This book stressed me out in the best way.
Kora Nyx somehow made these chaotic, flawed characters impossible not to love. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, the book said, “that’s cute” and ruined my peace again. The detail into Caleb’s mental health and Harper’s trauma… Top fucking tier.
If you like dark romance that makes you laugh, stress out, blush, and emotionally spiral all at once, congratulations—this book was written for you. Easy four star read… On to book two, The Ruins.
The Rules Kora Nyx had me so tangled in emotion that I could not stand it. One minute I’m questioning my life choices, the next sobbing. This book is basically what happens when tension, bad decisions, emotional damage, and chemistry get locked in a room together and told to “figure it out.”
The banter? Top tier. The spice? Aggressive. The emotional whiplash? Absolutely disrespectful. I spent half the book feeling like I was in on a dirty little secret and the other half SCREAMING absolutely FUCCCCKK this asshole! (You’ll see when you read it.) This book stressed me out in the best way.
Kora Nyx somehow made these chaotic, flawed characters impossible not to love. Every time I thought I knew where the story was going, the book said, “that’s cute” and ruined my peace again. The detail into Caleb’s mental health and Harper’s trauma… Top fucking tier.
If you like dark romance that makes you laugh, stress out, blush, and emotionally spiral all at once, congratulations—this book was written for you. Easy four star read… On to book two, The Ruins.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was not what I was expecting. Be ready for your emotions to go on a ride, with tissues. Caleb is my favorite character, he is messed up inside, but covers it trying to be perfect. Harper has has an extremely tough bringing up, she doesn't trust anyone, and has a wall up. Well these two together are like puzzle pieces, both broken, but complete when they are together. This book is more young adult, may be a little young for myself, but real world issues, and fantastic writing make it a great read. The ending is definitely a cliff hanger and I'm a little mad about it, but more what happened at the end, then the fact it's a cliff hanger. This is not a light hearted book, or a feel good read. It is deep and emotional. But the fact that it affected my mood the way it did, shows what good writing is about. There is so much chemistry and surprises that this book definitely keeps you on your toes. I will be waiting to see what happens!!!
I received an ARC of this book, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
I received an ARC of this book, all opinions and thoughts are my own.
May 8, 2026
This book wrecked me in the best way.
Harper is the kind of FMC you can’t help but root for after everything she’s survived growing up in chaos, learning how to fend for herself long before she ever should have had to. All she’s ever really wanted was safety, love, and someone who would choose her first.
The emotional tension in this story was incredible. Every relationship felt layered and messy in a way that felt painfully real. You can feel how deeply Harper clings to the people she loves, especially Z, the best friend she grew up surviving beside and would sacrifice anything for.
And then there’s Caleb… our sweet, perfect golden boy MMC. The one constantly checking, counting, calculating every step just to keep the people he loves safe. Controlled, careful, always following the rules… until Harper. Watching him slowly unravel for her had me completely obsessed.
This book had me hooked from page one and I genuinely couldn’t put it down. And that ending??? The sound that left me nearly woke up my husband and left me staring at ceiling cause what the f*ck
Harper is the kind of FMC you can’t help but root for after everything she’s survived growing up in chaos, learning how to fend for herself long before she ever should have had to. All she’s ever really wanted was safety, love, and someone who would choose her first.
The emotional tension in this story was incredible. Every relationship felt layered and messy in a way that felt painfully real. You can feel how deeply Harper clings to the people she loves, especially Z, the best friend she grew up surviving beside and would sacrifice anything for.
And then there’s Caleb… our sweet, perfect golden boy MMC. The one constantly checking, counting, calculating every step just to keep the people he loves safe. Controlled, careful, always following the rules… until Harper. Watching him slowly unravel for her had me completely obsessed.
This book had me hooked from page one and I genuinely couldn’t put it down. And that ending??? The sound that left me nearly woke up my husband and left me staring at ceiling cause what the f*ck
April 12, 2026
ARC Review:
I loved this book. I was expecting something completely different. A dark MMC, maybe a rivalry between the two main characters. This was a great surprise.
We follow our FMC, Harper, who suddenly moves in with her estranged father who has wronged her before, and with his new wife and son.
Said son is our MMC, Caleb, he seems like a very soft character but is much more than that. He’s protective, ambitious and very loving. The two are inevitably drawn to each other.
I loved the development of their story, as well as their character developments, especially Harper, I loved that she finally felt like she belonged, even if she didn’t want to.
This book is for everyone who loves a forbidden romance with forced proximity and a smidge of mystery.
I also did not except that ending. I need the second book now!!!
Tropes:
🐈stepsiblings
🎨forced proximity
🐈hurt/comfort
🎨OCD rep
🐈protective MMC
I loved this book. I was expecting something completely different. A dark MMC, maybe a rivalry between the two main characters. This was a great surprise.
We follow our FMC, Harper, who suddenly moves in with her estranged father who has wronged her before, and with his new wife and son.
Said son is our MMC, Caleb, he seems like a very soft character but is much more than that. He’s protective, ambitious and very loving. The two are inevitably drawn to each other.
I loved the development of their story, as well as their character developments, especially Harper, I loved that she finally felt like she belonged, even if she didn’t want to.
This book is for everyone who loves a forbidden romance with forced proximity and a smidge of mystery.
I also did not except that ending. I need the second book now!!!
Tropes:
🐈stepsiblings
🎨forced proximity
🐈hurt/comfort
🎨OCD rep
🐈protective MMC
Review of advance copy
This book was interesting. I liked the whole plot of it and found the 2 main characters enjoyable and complex. The writing style improved throughout the book as the story became more complex. I really enjoyed reading it and found it easy to read and follow along with. I also finished it under two days so it was a simple and easy read. Some constructive criticism I would have about this book is at the beginning. I felt like the sentences were too long and were overly descriptive to the point where we were just talking about nothing. For me the way that this book could’ve earned five stars is maybe developing the characters a little more and I felt like the two characters didn’t have the connection that they talked about in their inner monologue. You could tell that they liked each other, but I just felt like it was fast paced. But I will definitely be reading part two when it comes out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 4, 2026
I missed that this was not a standalone. I am thankful the next book comes out in a few days. This is my first book by this author and I enjoyed the writing style.
Harper has had a rough life. Her only friend Z is all she has. Her mother is a drunk and she is always fending off her mom’s boyfriends. Z has his own problems. His stepdad beats him. He barely get fed and all he wants is to run away with Harper.
Harper gets saved by her dad. He has cleaned himself up and has a wife with a son Harper’s age. They meet at school and don’t realize who the other is. The chemistry is the start of their relationship. The meet cute was perfect. Harper wants to escape her refuge and go back for Z. He suggested they get married so they can get emancipated but her Dad rescues her before they can plan anything.
The book ends on a sad sad cliffhanger. I’m equally ticked off at what went down as I am sad. Can’t wait till the next book.
Harper has had a rough life. Her only friend Z is all she has. Her mother is a drunk and she is always fending off her mom’s boyfriends. Z has his own problems. His stepdad beats him. He barely get fed and all he wants is to run away with Harper.
Harper gets saved by her dad. He has cleaned himself up and has a wife with a son Harper’s age. They meet at school and don’t realize who the other is. The chemistry is the start of their relationship. The meet cute was perfect. Harper wants to escape her refuge and go back for Z. He suggested they get married so they can get emancipated but her Dad rescues her before they can plan anything.
The book ends on a sad sad cliffhanger. I’m equally ticked off at what went down as I am sad. Can’t wait till the next book.
April 23, 2026
The Rules is book one of a stepsibling duet.
Caleb is straightlaced and has a set of rules he follows in order to be the most perfect and best version of himself. Harper entering his world has caused some of his rules to be questioned. I loved Caleb and his strong convictions. Even though he knew of Harper's plans, he was still there for her, supporting her and helping her achieve what she wanted and needed. Harper expects everyone to disappoint and leave her. I felt bad that she constantly lived her life this way. Both of these characters go through a lot of challenges and painful moments. I loved seeing them support each other through some things, but the pain they go through is heartily felt through every word on every page. That ending leaves me wanting more. I am in need of the next part of the duet, to see how everything goes between Harper and Caleb.
Caleb is straightlaced and has a set of rules he follows in order to be the most perfect and best version of himself. Harper entering his world has caused some of his rules to be questioned. I loved Caleb and his strong convictions. Even though he knew of Harper's plans, he was still there for her, supporting her and helping her achieve what she wanted and needed. Harper expects everyone to disappoint and leave her. I felt bad that she constantly lived her life this way. Both of these characters go through a lot of challenges and painful moments. I loved seeing them support each other through some things, but the pain they go through is heartily felt through every word on every page. That ending leaves me wanting more. I am in need of the next part of the duet, to see how everything goes between Harper and Caleb.
May 12, 2026
What happens when two very different worlds collide? Sparks fly because this is the perfect way to describe when Harper meets Caleb. She is a resilient seventeen-year-old who is uprooted from her difficult life in a Texas trailer park and thrust into the polished, high-pressure environment of affluent Dallas by her father who comes back to take her to his new family. Harper is struggling to find her footing in a world of wealth and leave her friend behind add to this a new stepbrother and the situation is more complicated.
I absolutely loved the way the author build the tension as Harper tries to protect those she loves while navigating betrayal, blackmail, and the crushing weight of family secrets. It was a emotional rollercoaster that left me curious for the next installment.
Thank you BookSirens and to the author for this wonderful book!
I absolutely loved the way the author build the tension as Harper tries to protect those she loves while navigating betrayal, blackmail, and the crushing weight of family secrets. It was a emotional rollercoaster that left me curious for the next installment.
Thank you BookSirens and to the author for this wonderful book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am wrecked. Before the last few chapters THE RULES was one of the most beautiful, soul deep love stories I’ve read. Now? hmhh Now, I’m disgusted, red faced, snotty nosed, ugly crying, WRECKED for Caleb and Harper. And Silas! UGH! I have a knot in my stomach that I’m pretty sure won’t ease for a week. Still I love this book. Why am I such a sadist? *** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨Caleb
FMC:
✨Harper
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨cliffhanger
Tropes:
👉dark steamy romance
👉forbidden love
👉forced proximity
👉stepbrother
Triggers: 🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, open🚪sex
💥profanity
💥violence, r ape, abuse
💥death of a parent
💥drug use
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
MMC:
✨Caleb
FMC:
✨Harper
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨cliffhanger
Tropes:
👉dark steamy romance
👉forbidden love
👉forced proximity
👉stepbrother
Triggers: 🛑see content warning page/author’s website for full list🛑
💥18+
💥🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, open🚪sex
💥profanity
💥violence, r ape, abuse
💥death of a parent
💥drug use
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While I was skeptical at first of the romance with a sibling story line this book had me invested from the first chapter! Harper and Z were dealt the WORST hand ... but they each had each other. Thats all that matters right? Well, Harpers dad (who ran away/in prison) finally figured out that Harpers moms daily boyfriend(s) were taking advantage of his daughter and SAVED HER. End of Story right? Wrong. Harper meets Caleb and both of their worlds stop! I cannot believe the attraction, let alone the forbidden aspect to it. To the point that Z does the unthinkable... All I can say is I am anxiously at the edge of my seat waiting for Book 2!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Caleb and Harper's first story of the duet starts a journey that features the tropes of the Found Family as well as the "step-sibling" forbidden love romance. Mind the TWs! Harper's life is diametrically opposed to Caleb's. Her experiences, her home life, and her perceptions have all been shaped by a darker reality. Coming to live on the other side of the tracks, with a family that cares for each other just shows her how far away that distance truly is. She struggles to acclimate to the home life that Caleb seemingly takes for vantage. But a deeper dive into his thoughts puts his own struggles and his coping mechanisms into perspective. Slowly they turn to each other and become closer than expected. Until... book 2 of the duet cannot come soon enough.
April 21, 2026
Thank goodness the next book comes out in a couple of weeks! This book had such a compelling plot and well-written characters. Wrapped up in a step-brother plot is the story of two young people who have already experienced more difficulties than most might ever experience.
Both have created ways of surviving and dealing with their experiences, but when they are thrown together during their senior year, they not only find attraction but somewhere safe to land.
The realistic characters leave you hopeful but with a tension that they will persevere as the book ends on a wild cliffhanger!
The book very accurately portrays how heartbreaking and gritty real life can be, but how having someone to walk alongside you is worth pursuing.
Both have created ways of surviving and dealing with their experiences, but when they are thrown together during their senior year, they not only find attraction but somewhere safe to land.
The realistic characters leave you hopeful but with a tension that they will persevere as the book ends on a wild cliffhanger!
The book very accurately portrays how heartbreaking and gritty real life can be, but how having someone to walk alongside you is worth pursuing.
April 21, 2026
Caleb & Harper's relationship is complicated. Both are damaged - Caleb has rules he tries to follow to keep himself in control. Harper is chaotic. They fall for each other despite their step-sibling relationship.
After being rescued from a bad situation at home by her estranged father Harper doesn’t trust anyone & is determined to return back to Grass Valley for her friend Z. They had planned to run away together. Things get even more complicated…… Z doesn't like that Harper is happy with her new family.
The betrayal at the end of this book made me feel physically ill. This book does end in a cliffhanger. Hoping against hope that justice is served & that Harper, her father, and Caleb win in the end.
After being rescued from a bad situation at home by her estranged father Harper doesn’t trust anyone & is determined to return back to Grass Valley for her friend Z. They had planned to run away together. Things get even more complicated…… Z doesn't like that Harper is happy with her new family.
The betrayal at the end of this book made me feel physically ill. This book does end in a cliffhanger. Hoping against hope that justice is served & that Harper, her father, and Caleb win in the end.
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