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RuleBreaker
Jeremy Hayden is everything I ever wanted.
He’s the captain of the football team, the golden boy, the man every woman craves.
But there’s one problem. He doesn’t even know I exist.
Until one night, when he walked into my room.
For a second, I thought everything was finally changing.
That he finally saw me.
I was wrong.
Because the next day, I found out he was dating my sister.
And just like that, my whole world fell apart.
So I did the only thing I could.
I started dating my best friend to make him jealous.
I never noticed her.
But somehow, I always felt her. In the crowd. On the field. In my dreams.
And I didn’t even know it…until I lost her.
I made a bet to save my career.
Let her sister pull the strings.
And now I’m stuck in a lie I can’t get out of.
But the truth?
I was already in love.
With the wrong girl.
The one I never saw until it was too late.
He’s the captain of the football team, the golden boy, the man every woman craves.
But there’s one problem. He doesn’t even know I exist.
Until one night, when he walked into my room.
For a second, I thought everything was finally changing.
That he finally saw me.
I was wrong.
Because the next day, I found out he was dating my sister.
And just like that, my whole world fell apart.
So I did the only thing I could.
I started dating my best friend to make him jealous.
I never noticed her.
But somehow, I always felt her. In the crowd. On the field. In my dreams.
And I didn’t even know it…until I lost her.
I made a bet to save my career.
Let her sister pull the strings.
And now I’m stuck in a lie I can’t get out of.
But the truth?
I was already in love.
With the wrong girl.
The one I never saw until it was too late.
- GenresSports RomanceRomance
324 pages, Paperback
First published October 30, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 9, 2025
(3,5/5)
Let me tell you first and foremost I was not okay after seeing that art of our MMC and reading his description afterwards. The mental image I had - GUYS.. I nearly fainted.
(But he wasn't a teenager in my head, let's not make it weird, okay)
This story was.. Chaotic, messy and I was here for it in the beginning - then I wasn't in the middle - and then I was again at the end. So my reading experience was as chaotic as the story, I guess.
I honestly for the life of me can't remember or imagine that my teenage years were this messy. I feel like there was constantly someone yelling, crying or fucking. Didn't we ever just.. exist?
Maybe not haha.
I did feel like the story needed to be proofread again to make sure inconsistencies are ironed out, but this definitely has promise.
Let me tell you first and foremost I was not okay after seeing that art of our MMC and reading his description afterwards. The mental image I had - GUYS.. I nearly fainted.
(But he wasn't a teenager in my head, let's not make it weird, okay)
This story was.. Chaotic, messy and I was here for it in the beginning - then I wasn't in the middle - and then I was again at the end. So my reading experience was as chaotic as the story, I guess.
I honestly for the life of me can't remember or imagine that my teenage years were this messy. I feel like there was constantly someone yelling, crying or fucking. Didn't we ever just.. exist?
Maybe not haha.
I did feel like the story needed to be proofread again to make sure inconsistencies are ironed out, but this definitely has promise.
November 22, 2025
3⭐️
this started out really promising but then i almost felt like some things went wrong along the way.
i think it quickly became a little confusing after just the first few chapters, i wasn’t really sure what was going on and in which order most of the things the main characters did took place, it felt a little chaotic to read and sometimes like i was missing a chapter. towards the end and the second half this definitely improved and i didn’t have this feeling whatsoever.
i did enjoy this book and the cute romance i think this book could have just needed more polishing especially towards the middle of the book, other than that though this was a really cute read and i just wanted more. this felt too short, i needed more!
Thank you so much to NetGalley for sending me this arc!
this started out really promising but then i almost felt like some things went wrong along the way.
i think it quickly became a little confusing after just the first few chapters, i wasn’t really sure what was going on and in which order most of the things the main characters did took place, it felt a little chaotic to read and sometimes like i was missing a chapter. towards the end and the second half this definitely improved and i didn’t have this feeling whatsoever.
i did enjoy this book and the cute romance i think this book could have just needed more polishing especially towards the middle of the book, other than that though this was a really cute read and i just wanted more. this felt too short, i needed more!
Thank you so much to NetGalley for sending me this arc!
October 28, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this book, I’m rating it 3.0 stars.
I want to start by saying the story has chaotic characters which creates a fun vibe where I literally couldn’t put it down. I do feel like the writing had a YA feel due to the age of the characters, some slightly cringe behaviour and the poor choices made, but the book itself has a fair amount of spice so definitely couldn’t be YA in my opinion. I do feel like the story is a little messy with the romance and the dynamics between our love square, and I really needed Isaac and Winter to have better boundaries cause it felt a little intense.
There are some heart breaking moments relating to the familial aspects of the story and I’d consider the possible triggers before reading such as physical and emotional abuse and grief. I wish we got more of a closure on things with the winter and her family.
All in all it’s an easily devourable read that’s totally worth the chaos for a good time with lots of chaos.
I want to start by saying the story has chaotic characters which creates a fun vibe where I literally couldn’t put it down. I do feel like the writing had a YA feel due to the age of the characters, some slightly cringe behaviour and the poor choices made, but the book itself has a fair amount of spice so definitely couldn’t be YA in my opinion. I do feel like the story is a little messy with the romance and the dynamics between our love square, and I really needed Isaac and Winter to have better boundaries cause it felt a little intense.
There are some heart breaking moments relating to the familial aspects of the story and I’d consider the possible triggers before reading such as physical and emotional abuse and grief. I wish we got more of a closure on things with the winter and her family.
All in all it’s an easily devourable read that’s totally worth the chaos for a good time with lots of chaos.
October 26, 2025
This book felt chaotic and disorganized, making it a frustrating read. The story revolves around familiar tropes like stalking and instalove. Winter, our seemingly invisible female protagonist, has been obsessively in love with Jeremy, the “golden boy” of their school. Interestingly, Jeremy only starts to notice her after smelling her perfume—an scent that has haunted him for years. Winter's only true friend is Isaac, a guy who secretly loves her sister. Isaac is her confidant and constant support, but their relationship feels more like a friendship than anything romantic. The story also reveals a dark family background, with Winter’s mother being cruel and targeted specifically at her. The story’s chaos stems from its uneven pacing; some parts flow smoothly while others feel strangely disconnected. It’s hard to tell if Jeremy is playing rugby, soccer, or American football at times—a mistake that shouldn’t happen in a well-structured story. The characters’ relationships also seem inconsistent: Isaac acts more in love with Winter than just a friend, Sophie oscillates between cruelty and caring, and Winter and Jeremy’s relationship lacks depth. I rated it two stars because, despite some bright moments, the book felt like searching for a diamond in the ocean—disappointing given the intriguing summary that promised more.
October 6, 2025
“That’s where you’re wrong, little snow. Every piece of you belongs to me.”
This is my first book by this author and wow. I read this in one day. Grab tissues.
This book touches on some sensitive situations that literally brought tears to my eyes. There were a couple times I thought my eyes were going to literally pop out of my head because I was so appalled and shocked at what was going on.
Some of my favorite romance novels are ones that touch on a deeper level and this one definitely accomplished that. Going from anger to awww to tears in my eyes and then filled with laughter and repeat...it was an emotional heart wrenching rollercoaster and I loved every second of it.
Clearly with all the early events that occurred I was team Winter from the beginning! Jeremy is complex. He gets himself into quite the situation and you want to shake him while your heart breaks for him at the same time. the author does a fantastic with the character building all around. I definitely have my love list and my I wish I could high five them in the face list. Issac is the real MVP. I'll leave his character with a if you know you know. Sigh.
Overall the premise of the book is fantastic. There's plenty of drama and plenty of turns, twists and even more drama, swooning moments and heartache. jaw dropping moments that kept me hooked with a touch of spice. I couldn't put it down. Again.. finished it in one day. It was quite the journey. Full of rage, laughs, lots of laughs.. tears, lots of tears. and gasps. Lots of gasps. I'd like to thank the author for this overly emotional, heart wrenching journey. I'm wrecked.
I received an advanced review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily
This is my first book by this author and wow. I read this in one day. Grab tissues.
This book touches on some sensitive situations that literally brought tears to my eyes. There were a couple times I thought my eyes were going to literally pop out of my head because I was so appalled and shocked at what was going on.
Some of my favorite romance novels are ones that touch on a deeper level and this one definitely accomplished that. Going from anger to awww to tears in my eyes and then filled with laughter and repeat...it was an emotional heart wrenching rollercoaster and I loved every second of it.
Clearly with all the early events that occurred I was team Winter from the beginning! Jeremy is complex. He gets himself into quite the situation and you want to shake him while your heart breaks for him at the same time. the author does a fantastic with the character building all around. I definitely have my love list and my I wish I could high five them in the face list. Issac is the real MVP. I'll leave his character with a if you know you know. Sigh.
Overall the premise of the book is fantastic. There's plenty of drama and plenty of turns, twists and even more drama, swooning moments and heartache. jaw dropping moments that kept me hooked with a touch of spice. I couldn't put it down. Again.. finished it in one day. It was quite the journey. Full of rage, laughs, lots of laughs.. tears, lots of tears. and gasps. Lots of gasps. I'd like to thank the author for this overly emotional, heart wrenching journey. I'm wrecked.
I received an advanced review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily
October 30, 2025
Wow I have no clue where to start. Sad to say but this was a complete waste of my time. I hate when stories trauma dump to keep the story going. Like when do the characters get a break?? Every chapter was written all of over the place. I have no clue what type of writing this was. Everything was all over the place and left me so confused and annoyed. Where did the abuse come from??? The synopsis says nothing about parental abuse. Then why is the FMC so weak?? She constantly lets the MMC take advantage of her and her feelings!! Then we have her crappy parents how did her dad go from loving her and taking up for her to just letting her mom abuse her and being on her side! Then we have her sister being an absolute terror and then one chapter she’s supposedly changed but then in the next chapter the crappy sister is back. She goes back to helping mistreat her sister like what??! This was so much back-and-forth that I was not able to enjoy this book. To kill off one of the decent characters that were always there for the FMC was totally unnecessary. Then the MMC was so hot and cold that I am burnt and freezer burnt at the same time. I am highly disappointed because I was looking forward to reading this book, but this was not a good one at all. I guess I give this story one star for the happy ending.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2025
I was kindly sent this Arc by Camelia Varga and it was my first book I’ve read by her. I went in blind and at first I was excited for a fluffy sports romance but how wrong was I! It had me in a chokehold from the first page, the story is gripping but also heartbreaking and there’s betrayal throughout the book.
Jeremy Hayden is the star football player and Winter is the coach’s daughter, Winter has literally been in love with Jeremy for the longest time but he focuses on nothing but football until he finally sees her. You will literally fall in love with their story, there’s tension and yearning. He waits for her, defends her, he loves her so much.
The author also touches on sensitive subjects that literally broke my heart, Winter is such a bright FMC who just wants to be noticed but the way her mum and sister make her life hell shocked me to the point of tears I just wanted to hug her. Jeremy MMC will annoy you but also just melt your heart. Overall this book was a fun but heartbreaking story, it will make you cry but also laugh, have you raging but mostly make you cry a lot!
Jeremy Hayden is the star football player and Winter is the coach’s daughter, Winter has literally been in love with Jeremy for the longest time but he focuses on nothing but football until he finally sees her. You will literally fall in love with their story, there’s tension and yearning. He waits for her, defends her, he loves her so much.
The author also touches on sensitive subjects that literally broke my heart, Winter is such a bright FMC who just wants to be noticed but the way her mum and sister make her life hell shocked me to the point of tears I just wanted to hug her. Jeremy MMC will annoy you but also just melt your heart. Overall this book was a fun but heartbreaking story, it will make you cry but also laugh, have you raging but mostly make you cry a lot!
October 23, 2025
‧₊˚✧ 3.25 ✧˚₊‧
It's ARC time, baby! I don't remember how I got a hold of this one, but I do remember that the premise intrigued me, so I requested a copy and got accepted!
This story is in a dual POV from both Winter and Jeremy's perspective. Winter always looked at Jeremy from a distance, ever since she was seven. She knew he wouldn't notice her, though, so she was content blending into the crowd, watching him from a distance. Will Jeremy notice her? And will he give up his fuckboy ways?
Winter's family most definitely isn't winning any 'family of the year' awards. Her mother haunts her every day, her father just looks at it from a distance, and her sister antagonises her on every corner she can. She even snoops away Jeremy from right under her nose just because she can. I felt like Sophie was the biggest bitch on the block to Winter, a backstab from her own sister.
Jeremy starts out as a bit of a dick. He sleeps around, with little respect for the girls. He just sees them as a convenience when he needs it, so I was honestly surprised about how his personal arc goes. He goes from that to falling for Winter super hard, which seemed like a bit of a 180. I think if this would've been more gradual, it would've been a bit more believable.
Onto my absolute favorite of the story: Isaac. Yes, you read that right, I picked the best friend over the love interest in this story. The thing for me was this: I think Winter and Isaac would've been happy together, despite their crushes. I knew it wasn't going to happen, but the two of them had amazing chemistry too. So sue me, I was there for Isaac.
Sadly, the book still was riddled with mistakes, which took away from the reading experience for me. I shot the author a message to see if those could be resolved before the launch.
I got to admit, this story did keep me on my toes. I didn't see a lot of the twists coming. I got my heart broken too by this book. It also has a bittersweet ending more than a happily ever after, which was refreshing to read.
And finally a big thank you to Camelia Varga for the eARC of this book. As always I leave this review voluntarily and all the opinions are my own. I hope to see this book do well upon release on the 30th of October!
It's ARC time, baby! I don't remember how I got a hold of this one, but I do remember that the premise intrigued me, so I requested a copy and got accepted!
This story is in a dual POV from both Winter and Jeremy's perspective. Winter always looked at Jeremy from a distance, ever since she was seven. She knew he wouldn't notice her, though, so she was content blending into the crowd, watching him from a distance. Will Jeremy notice her? And will he give up his fuckboy ways?
Winter's family most definitely isn't winning any 'family of the year' awards. Her mother haunts her every day, her father just looks at it from a distance, and her sister antagonises her on every corner she can. She even snoops away Jeremy from right under her nose just because she can. I felt like Sophie was the biggest bitch on the block to Winter, a backstab from her own sister.
Jeremy starts out as a bit of a dick. He sleeps around, with little respect for the girls. He just sees them as a convenience when he needs it, so I was honestly surprised about how his personal arc goes. He goes from that to falling for Winter super hard, which seemed like a bit of a 180. I think if this would've been more gradual, it would've been a bit more believable.
Onto my absolute favorite of the story: Isaac. Yes, you read that right, I picked the best friend over the love interest in this story. The thing for me was this: I think Winter and Isaac would've been happy together, despite their crushes. I knew it wasn't going to happen, but the two of them had amazing chemistry too. So sue me, I was there for Isaac.
Sadly, the book still was riddled with mistakes, which took away from the reading experience for me. I shot the author a message to see if those could be resolved before the launch.
I got to admit, this story did keep me on my toes. I didn't see a lot of the twists coming. I got my heart broken too by this book. It also has a bittersweet ending more than a happily ever after, which was refreshing to read.
And finally a big thank you to Camelia Varga for the eARC of this book. As always I leave this review voluntarily and all the opinions are my own. I hope to see this book do well upon release on the 30th of October!
November 22, 2025
Never have I read a sports romance and ended up needing my heart soothed after all the emotional torment. I thoroughly recommend this book
January 11, 2026
RuleBreaker is the first book by Camelia Varga that I have read. This being said I felt like this story was chaotic and all over the place at times. I am not a huge fan of the whole stalker/insta-love trope. I know that Winter has been secretly in love with Jeremy for forever but I felt like Jeremy becoming obsessed with Winter came out of left field and I would have liked to see more progression to their relationship. This book had a YA feel to it with the age of the characters and the cringey and poor choices that they continued to make but it definitely had too much spice for the YA age range. I loved the camaraderie and friendship that Winter and Isaac had but they needed to put up better boundaries. For a minute, I thought those two might end up together instead of Jeremy and Winter.
There are some absolutely heart breaking aspects to Winter's familial life, such as emotional and physical abuse and grief! A parent should never treat their child the way Winter was and it broke my heart for her. I needed more closure to that aspect of the story.
Overall, this was an enjoyable albeit chaotic teen spicy romance. This wasn't my favorite read, but I will still check out more by the author.
There are some absolutely heart breaking aspects to Winter's familial life, such as emotional and physical abuse and grief! A parent should never treat their child the way Winter was and it broke my heart for her. I needed more closure to that aspect of the story.
Overall, this was an enjoyable albeit chaotic teen spicy romance. This wasn't my favorite read, but I will still check out more by the author.
December 28, 2025
This is the first book I have read by Camelia Varga I will definitely read more.
I was hooked by the story line from the start. The pull between the Winter and Jeremy starts in the first few pages and remains strong through their ups and downs.
Some of the football terms in the book were a bit off and I wasn't exactly certain which position Jeremy plays (one scene has him as the quarterback, another as a receiver.)
I really hated Sophie and the girls', which is a good thing 🙂. Their antics made my blood boil.
Overall, I enjoyed this ARC and would recommend it
I was hooked by the story line from the start. The pull between the Winter and Jeremy starts in the first few pages and remains strong through their ups and downs.
Some of the football terms in the book were a bit off and I wasn't exactly certain which position Jeremy plays (one scene has him as the quarterback, another as a receiver.)
I really hated Sophie and the girls', which is a good thing 🙂. Their antics made my blood boil.
Overall, I enjoyed this ARC and would recommend it
October 27, 2025
Heartbreaking by MeemsAngel82
That is the definition of what I feel here. This was written in a realistic way and nothing here is smooth. And this is something to keep in mind throughout the entire book. Shame on me if there are trigger warnings and I didn't see them. But I'll just say that there are a few and one completely devastates me. I had tears all the way through this book for several reasons.
She wasn't wanted and her mother made it obvious by the various forms of abuse thrown at her. Her dad would try at times but her sister also enjoyed hurting her, though she shows some concern for her. The boy that makes her heart beat faster gives her something to look forward to. As does her best friend, a guy who protected her from her own family. And even the actions and words of the boy who she crushed on and who actually crushed on her right back.
The abuses she went through was too much. Her father should have drawn the line right away. Her sister should make her mind up on caring for her or not because she was part of the problem. Her feelings for her guy and her beautiful and strong relationship with her best buddy were the only things she had, and sometimes her dad would do the right thing and acknowledge her unfair treatment at home… but only sometimes doesn't cut it. Her guy. He was a guy. But he did have big feelings for her and him too-draw a line. Her sister trying to manipulate him was weak and he should have showed his strength and at least set her aside. Her sister didn't know what she wanted, but wanted all eyes on her, but knowing she wasn't worth the effort. Drama, drama. It was too much for me, but then the light came in the form of her best friend. Her bud was so fantastic. A teen but with a heart of gold that went above and beyond. Even when her own family tormented and put her aside, his parents were great too. Our H's parents were fantastic as well, her bonding with them and the dogs… letting her guard down and having something positive instead of constant torment was wonderful. But her best friend was her constant. My heart broke at what he wanted and really was never going to get. There was so much for him… I couldn't take nor understand the direction the book went with him. She already had enough. She already was done. Why break her? And in that way? I wish our H stood up more, was more strong. I wish her dad… whomever… was stronger for her. She could have had and deserved more. From everyone. This wasn't for me, but clearly was pulling at my heart so, well done in the sense I was emotionally involved in this book. I cannot take relentless torment like this and have so many weak people cause her so much harm. This H needed to be stronger for her and himself. And her best friend should be here for it all. I was done from the beginning but her best friend's story completely ended me. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That is the definition of what I feel here. This was written in a realistic way and nothing here is smooth. And this is something to keep in mind throughout the entire book. Shame on me if there are trigger warnings and I didn't see them. But I'll just say that there are a few and one completely devastates me. I had tears all the way through this book for several reasons.
She wasn't wanted and her mother made it obvious by the various forms of abuse thrown at her. Her dad would try at times but her sister also enjoyed hurting her, though she shows some concern for her. The boy that makes her heart beat faster gives her something to look forward to. As does her best friend, a guy who protected her from her own family. And even the actions and words of the boy who she crushed on and who actually crushed on her right back.
The abuses she went through was too much. Her father should have drawn the line right away. Her sister should make her mind up on caring for her or not because she was part of the problem. Her feelings for her guy and her beautiful and strong relationship with her best buddy were the only things she had, and sometimes her dad would do the right thing and acknowledge her unfair treatment at home… but only sometimes doesn't cut it. Her guy. He was a guy. But he did have big feelings for her and him too-draw a line. Her sister trying to manipulate him was weak and he should have showed his strength and at least set her aside. Her sister didn't know what she wanted, but wanted all eyes on her, but knowing she wasn't worth the effort. Drama, drama. It was too much for me, but then the light came in the form of her best friend. Her bud was so fantastic. A teen but with a heart of gold that went above and beyond. Even when her own family tormented and put her aside, his parents were great too. Our H's parents were fantastic as well, her bonding with them and the dogs… letting her guard down and having something positive instead of constant torment was wonderful. But her best friend was her constant. My heart broke at what he wanted and really was never going to get. There was so much for him… I couldn't take nor understand the direction the book went with him. She already had enough. She already was done. Why break her? And in that way? I wish our H stood up more, was more strong. I wish her dad… whomever… was stronger for her. She could have had and deserved more. From everyone. This wasn't for me, but clearly was pulling at my heart so, well done in the sense I was emotionally involved in this book. I cannot take relentless torment like this and have so many weak people cause her so much harm. This H needed to be stronger for her and himself. And her best friend should be here for it all. I was done from the beginning but her best friend's story completely ended me. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 19, 2025
3.5
Winter and Jeremy
This sounded good based on the blurb, and it kept me invested. It was emotionally intense, and at times all but wrecked me.
The plot was messy and had so much drama for 17-18-year-olds, with blackmail, betrayal, lies, and a lot of secrets. The ‘love triangle’, I think it was more of a ‘love-square’, was extremely confusing.
The plot points are a bit weird.
Her family is horrible.
- Her mother hates her for a reason that is revealed towards the end of the book, and it was extreme. Completely OTT, and would have been grounds for removal from the home, and hopefully prison time for her mum.
- Her sister is essentially a mini-me of her mother. Manipulative, hateful, skanky and downright nasty… The blackmail to steal Jeremy just sealed it - she was completely irredeemable.
- Her father was probably the worst of the lot. Her mother and sister were open in thier hatred. Then, he just allows them to treat her like c.rap, then acts all surprised when people tell him they’re violent. His kind of love is the type that you never want to have.
Jeremy….
- The school player, and he’s never met her before but is obsessed by her scent. Then agrees to destroy Winter in exchange for help with football…. Falls for her, then continues to ‘date’ her sister… Like her father, that kind of love is not the type you want.
Winter…
- She was very, very, very weak. No spine, takes whatever is dished out and just really needs to get away from everyone but Isaac. Then, when she’s had enough, makes choices for her health, and his future, it jumps ahead to an adult relationship in very weird circumstances. I mean, why is there a championship game in Ireland????
The saving factor was Isaac. Their weird relationship was more brother/sister, but still had odd behaviours that made you think something could be there… What was done to him was heartbreaking, and I’m not sure if I could forgive the author for that particular action.
I do want to know why there were no repercussions for Aaron’s actions!?!?!
Finally, the story that I wanted only happened in the last few chapters. If the drama and conflict finished around 50-60%, this may have been a different review, but there was zero relationship build for about 85% because he was ‘with’ her sister the entire time…
So, this had potential, but it was missed. It’s a page turner, sure, but needs a lot of work to fix the many errors.
Winter and Jeremy
This sounded good based on the blurb, and it kept me invested. It was emotionally intense, and at times all but wrecked me.
The plot was messy and had so much drama for 17-18-year-olds, with blackmail, betrayal, lies, and a lot of secrets. The ‘love triangle’, I think it was more of a ‘love-square’, was extremely confusing.
The plot points are a bit weird.
Her family is horrible.
- Her mother hates her for a reason that is revealed towards the end of the book, and it was extreme. Completely OTT, and would have been grounds for removal from the home, and hopefully prison time for her mum.
- Her sister is essentially a mini-me of her mother. Manipulative, hateful, skanky and downright nasty… The blackmail to steal Jeremy just sealed it - she was completely irredeemable.
- Her father was probably the worst of the lot. Her mother and sister were open in thier hatred. Then, he just allows them to treat her like c.rap, then acts all surprised when people tell him they’re violent. His kind of love is the type that you never want to have.
Jeremy….
- The school player, and he’s never met her before but is obsessed by her scent. Then agrees to destroy Winter in exchange for help with football…. Falls for her, then continues to ‘date’ her sister… Like her father, that kind of love is not the type you want.
Winter…
- She was very, very, very weak. No spine, takes whatever is dished out and just really needs to get away from everyone but Isaac. Then, when she’s had enough, makes choices for her health, and his future, it jumps ahead to an adult relationship in very weird circumstances. I mean, why is there a championship game in Ireland????
The saving factor was Isaac. Their weird relationship was more brother/sister, but still had odd behaviours that made you think something could be there… What was done to him was heartbreaking, and I’m not sure if I could forgive the author for that particular action.
I do want to know why there were no repercussions for Aaron’s actions!?!?!
Finally, the story that I wanted only happened in the last few chapters. If the drama and conflict finished around 50-60%, this may have been a different review, but there was zero relationship build for about 85% because he was ‘with’ her sister the entire time…
So, this had potential, but it was missed. It’s a page turner, sure, but needs a lot of work to fix the many errors.
November 13, 2025
When I read the description for this book, mixed with the sexy AF cover art, I was soo excited to dive into the story of Jeremy and Winter. This book had so much potential to be an amazing sports romance - But unfortunately it lost me completely after the three day cabin stay. It went from an amazing storyline to just.. I’m not even sure. There was so much chaos in such a short time that it didnt settle right with the story. If it had been drawn out more maybe another 100 pages or even just more detail - it would’ve been great.
To start off it seems like they’re in high school and Jeremy is an American football player, but then it goes on about him having sponsors and contracts? I’ve never heard of a high school player having a contract to play, let alone sponsors.. at least not in the USA- so I assumed it was based in another country and maybe it was soccer (football) or rugby. Especially when the characters said phrases like “pitch” and “goal”, but then at a different time they mentioned touchdowns. I honestly am not sure what sport he plays or if the author didn’t know the correct terms. This alone had me almost DNF the book. I hate when a sports romance doesn’t use correct terminology.
There were a lot of inconsistencies too. Like in the beginning Winter wears overalls to school and then a few chapters later she says she has to wear a school uniform? Or when her and Jeremy are in her room and she practically grabs his pen*s and puts it in her and says he took her vCard… but then a few chapters later she says she’s still a virgin? And then when they do it again later they act like it’s the first time? I was so confused.
Honestly, there was just too much trauma/drama. I mean, I understood what the author was going for, but to force Winter to break things off with Jeremy, ruin his sports career, kill off her best friend, ship her off to Ireland, then finds out her mother hates her because her dad is actually her uncle and her uncle is actually her dad? I saw the whole mom cheating thing coming from a mile away but it was just too much chaos in just a short amount of time. Kinda ruined the perfect storyline that was set up in the beginning. Perhaps if it was split up between chapters and there was a little bit of happiness it would’ve been better.
Rated: 2 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️
* I received a free eARC copy of this book from Victory Editing via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
To start off it seems like they’re in high school and Jeremy is an American football player, but then it goes on about him having sponsors and contracts? I’ve never heard of a high school player having a contract to play, let alone sponsors.. at least not in the USA- so I assumed it was based in another country and maybe it was soccer (football) or rugby. Especially when the characters said phrases like “pitch” and “goal”, but then at a different time they mentioned touchdowns. I honestly am not sure what sport he plays or if the author didn’t know the correct terms. This alone had me almost DNF the book. I hate when a sports romance doesn’t use correct terminology.
There were a lot of inconsistencies too. Like in the beginning Winter wears overalls to school and then a few chapters later she says she has to wear a school uniform? Or when her and Jeremy are in her room and she practically grabs his pen*s and puts it in her and says he took her vCard… but then a few chapters later she says she’s still a virgin? And then when they do it again later they act like it’s the first time? I was so confused.
Honestly, there was just too much trauma/drama. I mean, I understood what the author was going for, but to force Winter to break things off with Jeremy, ruin his sports career, kill off her best friend, ship her off to Ireland, then finds out her mother hates her because her dad is actually her uncle and her uncle is actually her dad? I saw the whole mom cheating thing coming from a mile away but it was just too much chaos in just a short amount of time. Kinda ruined the perfect storyline that was set up in the beginning. Perhaps if it was split up between chapters and there was a little bit of happiness it would’ve been better.
Rated: 2 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️
* I received a free eARC copy of this book from Victory Editing via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2025
I received an ARC of this book and this is my first one from this author.
I'm not sure I know how to summarize my feelings on this book - did I read the whole thing because I needed to know where it was going, yes. Did I cringe at some of it, also yes.
Told in dual POV of Winter and Jeremy. Jeremy is the golden boy athlete and Winter is the smart girl coaches daughter who has been longing for him for years. Isaac is Winter's best friend who is in love with Winter's sister. This story follows Winter and Jeremy's relationship through some truly messy situations.
By messy, I mean Winter's family is awful. Which itself is confusing - why would Isaac, someone who is Winter's sole supporter, be in love with a truly awful sister. I asked myself this every time it was brough up that Isaac was obsessed with the sister. Winter's mom is so mean and critical and her dad just mostly lets it be.
I feel Jeremy's obsession with Winter after finally noticing her could have been built up better. It went from nothing to 1000%, which I don't usually hate, but he was so offensive in the beginning. Maybe I just needed to understand why Winter was so enthralled with him a bit better.
Isaac and Winter's relationship was also a bit confusing. It took a few turns and had a few scenes I felt could have went somewhere and then everything was magically fixed. Overall that subplot felt kind of disjointed.
I also mean messy in the way that there were obvious mistakes that need cleared up or corrected. The first one I can think of is that I went in with the impression Jeremy was an American football player for Winter's dad. However, when the game was referenced, it did not seem as if that were the case at all. About 20% into the book there's a reference to someone scoring a goal and I remember flipping back through the book to see if I had missed something. I'm not sure I ever figured out what sport it should've been.
Despite the immature-ish actions and thoughts of the characters, I did read it all. Maybe I have a secret liking of hot messes - I read it quickly and needed to know how it ended after some of the twists. I rated it a 3 for the flow and the mistakes, but not for emotional or fun reasons. I think there's a lot of potential, maybe just needs a bit of polishing.
I'm not sure I know how to summarize my feelings on this book - did I read the whole thing because I needed to know where it was going, yes. Did I cringe at some of it, also yes.
Told in dual POV of Winter and Jeremy. Jeremy is the golden boy athlete and Winter is the smart girl coaches daughter who has been longing for him for years. Isaac is Winter's best friend who is in love with Winter's sister. This story follows Winter and Jeremy's relationship through some truly messy situations.
By messy, I mean Winter's family is awful. Which itself is confusing - why would Isaac, someone who is Winter's sole supporter, be in love with a truly awful sister. I asked myself this every time it was brough up that Isaac was obsessed with the sister. Winter's mom is so mean and critical and her dad just mostly lets it be.
I feel Jeremy's obsession with Winter after finally noticing her could have been built up better. It went from nothing to 1000%, which I don't usually hate, but he was so offensive in the beginning. Maybe I just needed to understand why Winter was so enthralled with him a bit better.
Isaac and Winter's relationship was also a bit confusing. It took a few turns and had a few scenes I felt could have went somewhere and then everything was magically fixed. Overall that subplot felt kind of disjointed.
I also mean messy in the way that there were obvious mistakes that need cleared up or corrected. The first one I can think of is that I went in with the impression Jeremy was an American football player for Winter's dad. However, when the game was referenced, it did not seem as if that were the case at all. About 20% into the book there's a reference to someone scoring a goal and I remember flipping back through the book to see if I had missed something. I'm not sure I ever figured out what sport it should've been.
Despite the immature-ish actions and thoughts of the characters, I did read it all. Maybe I have a secret liking of hot messes - I read it quickly and needed to know how it ended after some of the twists. I rated it a 3 for the flow and the mistakes, but not for emotional or fun reasons. I think there's a lot of potential, maybe just needs a bit of polishing.
October 27, 2025
RuleBreaker by Camelia Varga
Alright, if you're clicking on a book called RuleBreaker, you are absolutely looking for trouble, and trust me, Camelia Varga is here to serve it up with a shovel. This book doesn't just push the envelope; it sets the entire mailbox on fire. This is a dark romance, emphasis on dark, so put away your good judgment and your fluffy pillows, because this ride is brutal and unforgiving. The plot centers around [Main Character Name, e.g., Lena] who is either running from something truly terrifying or running straight toward the gorgeous, morally bankrupt chaos that defines the "heroes" of this story. There's an inevitable power imbalance, a desperate situation, and those classic alpha guys who are less "boyfriend material" and more "felony material." It is pure, addictive filth.
The major critique here is the emotional whiplash. The characters go from wanting to kill each other to wanting to dominate each other in about three pages flat, and the "why" is mostly glossed over with the heat of their forbidden tension. You have to totally abandon the pretense of a slow-burn romance and accept that this is a full-speed dive into trauma bonding and pure chemical reaction. The men are intentionally infuriating—they're controlling, they're possessive, and they exist only to test the heroine’s resolve, which, spoiler alert, she does not have. It’s exactly what you paid for, but don't try to defend their choices to your therapist.
Look, RuleBreaker is like eating pure sugar: it's a guaranteed rush, but you know it’s bad for you. It's compulsively readable and succeeds wildly at the one thing it promises: high-stakes, zero-filter spice and aggressive anti-heroes. If you're a connoisseur of dark romance, where the heroine is tough but hopelessly drawn into the toxicity, this hits the spot. But if you require your main characters to possess even a tiny sliver of common decency or a relationship that could survive a Tuesday, keep scrolling. This is a five-star read for your dark heart, but a zero-star recommendation for your life choices.
#RuleBreaker #NetGalley
Alright, if you're clicking on a book called RuleBreaker, you are absolutely looking for trouble, and trust me, Camelia Varga is here to serve it up with a shovel. This book doesn't just push the envelope; it sets the entire mailbox on fire. This is a dark romance, emphasis on dark, so put away your good judgment and your fluffy pillows, because this ride is brutal and unforgiving. The plot centers around [Main Character Name, e.g., Lena] who is either running from something truly terrifying or running straight toward the gorgeous, morally bankrupt chaos that defines the "heroes" of this story. There's an inevitable power imbalance, a desperate situation, and those classic alpha guys who are less "boyfriend material" and more "felony material." It is pure, addictive filth.
The major critique here is the emotional whiplash. The characters go from wanting to kill each other to wanting to dominate each other in about three pages flat, and the "why" is mostly glossed over with the heat of their forbidden tension. You have to totally abandon the pretense of a slow-burn romance and accept that this is a full-speed dive into trauma bonding and pure chemical reaction. The men are intentionally infuriating—they're controlling, they're possessive, and they exist only to test the heroine’s resolve, which, spoiler alert, she does not have. It’s exactly what you paid for, but don't try to defend their choices to your therapist.
Look, RuleBreaker is like eating pure sugar: it's a guaranteed rush, but you know it’s bad for you. It's compulsively readable and succeeds wildly at the one thing it promises: high-stakes, zero-filter spice and aggressive anti-heroes. If you're a connoisseur of dark romance, where the heroine is tough but hopelessly drawn into the toxicity, this hits the spot. But if you require your main characters to possess even a tiny sliver of common decency or a relationship that could survive a Tuesday, keep scrolling. This is a five-star read for your dark heart, but a zero-star recommendation for your life choices.
#RuleBreaker #NetGalley
October 26, 2025
This is the kind of book you can devour in one sitting, it pulls you in and you need to keep reading to find out what happens next.
There were a few things I really liked about the story, Winter’s strength, she's probably one of the most resilient female leads of any book ever. Her relationship with Issac was inspirational, to have someone always in your corner, its the friendship of most people's dreams.
There were quite a few things l was less keen on...
I couldn't quite get my head around how old these characters were, are they teenagers or...? Because if they are they're way more advanced then I was at that age!! And the setting, where are we geographically, I thought America but where would realistically allow Jeremy to visit Ireland every fortnight??
Winter's family - her mum and sister especially, the violence wasn't pre-warred in a triggers list and needs to be. The coach (“dad”) seemed to care but then forgave his wife over and over again - just complete red flags.
Jeremy. Don’t get me wrong, he's a heart throb but his actions are just awful, he treats girls like toys and has no regard for them as human beings - he literally has them stored in his phone as no.34 call for s€x -ew. His relationship with his parents seems lovely until his mum walks in on him TWICE in a suggestive situation (naked & “ready”)…. And she doesn’t bat an eye?! Again, are they teenagers or…?
While I loved Winter’s friendship with Issac, when they began a fake dating, Isaac was getting a little too into it, it was uncomfortable, and then after he got “excited” during their snog fest they went back to his house, agreed they'd taken things too far but then he continues to get "excited" by looking at Winter’s backside and then they share a bed and she wakes up with her hand down his boxers....?? Awkward
The ending though… that was emotional, tragic and put Winter and Jeremy in a much better position for a happily ever after that may last
There were a few things I really liked about the story, Winter’s strength, she's probably one of the most resilient female leads of any book ever. Her relationship with Issac was inspirational, to have someone always in your corner, its the friendship of most people's dreams.
There were quite a few things l was less keen on...
I couldn't quite get my head around how old these characters were, are they teenagers or...? Because if they are they're way more advanced then I was at that age!! And the setting, where are we geographically, I thought America but where would realistically allow Jeremy to visit Ireland every fortnight??
Winter's family - her mum and sister especially, the violence wasn't pre-warred in a triggers list and needs to be. The coach (“dad”) seemed to care but then forgave his wife over and over again - just complete red flags.
Jeremy. Don’t get me wrong, he's a heart throb but his actions are just awful, he treats girls like toys and has no regard for them as human beings - he literally has them stored in his phone as no.34 call for s€x -ew. His relationship with his parents seems lovely until his mum walks in on him TWICE in a suggestive situation (naked & “ready”)…. And she doesn’t bat an eye?! Again, are they teenagers or…?
While I loved Winter’s friendship with Issac, when they began a fake dating, Isaac was getting a little too into it, it was uncomfortable, and then after he got “excited” during their snog fest they went back to his house, agreed they'd taken things too far but then he continues to get "excited" by looking at Winter’s backside and then they share a bed and she wakes up with her hand down his boxers....?? Awkward
The ending though… that was emotional, tragic and put Winter and Jeremy in a much better position for a happily ever after that may last
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2025
“RuleBreaker” by Camelia Varga is a standalone novel. Jeremy Hayden is the star of the football team and Winter is the football Coach’s other daughter, that no one knows even exists. Winter has been in love with Jeremy for so long, not that he knows, doesn’t even know who she is. Then he does….”Curly chestnut hair falling around her face, pink flushed cheeks dusted with freckles and those eyes….those ocean blue eyes, lit up like wildfire.” To him, she is his little snow.
“He was six-foot-five, every inch of him built for dominance. Thick, muscular arms flexed as he tossed the ball effortlessly, his movements precise. The ridges of his abdomen tightened with each breath, the deep V of his hips disappearing into the waistband of his shorts. His body was a work of art one I had memorized, obsessed over, dreamt about for years.”
You will fall in love with Jeremy and Winter. She does not have an easy life, her mother and sister hate her and make her life hell. Her best and only friend is Isaac, he is her rock and a shoulder to cry on. He always supports her and stands up for her. At times you will laugh, you will cry, you will even get frustrated, but over all, you have your fingers crossed that everything will work out for them. They compliment each in some many ways - faults and all. Please note that tissues may be required.
I was hooked by the first chapter. This is a lovely book that will keep you hooked! It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story. From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story. This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊
“He was six-foot-five, every inch of him built for dominance. Thick, muscular arms flexed as he tossed the ball effortlessly, his movements precise. The ridges of his abdomen tightened with each breath, the deep V of his hips disappearing into the waistband of his shorts. His body was a work of art one I had memorized, obsessed over, dreamt about for years.”
You will fall in love with Jeremy and Winter. She does not have an easy life, her mother and sister hate her and make her life hell. Her best and only friend is Isaac, he is her rock and a shoulder to cry on. He always supports her and stands up for her. At times you will laugh, you will cry, you will even get frustrated, but over all, you have your fingers crossed that everything will work out for them. They compliment each in some many ways - faults and all. Please note that tissues may be required.
I was hooked by the first chapter. This is a lovely book that will keep you hooked! It has fun, laughs, intrigue, twists that you do not expect, and physical attraction. I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful love story. From page to page, chapter to chapter, from cover to cover - you will enjoy this beautiful story. This book will not disappoint! Highly recommended 😊
January 11, 2026
📚RuleBreaker
✍🏻Camelia Varga
Blurb:
Jeremy Hayden is everything I ever wanted.
He’s the captain of the football team, the golden boy, the man every woman craves.
But there’s one problem. He doesn’t even know I exist.
Until one night, when he walked into my room.
For a second, I thought everything was finally changing.
That he finally saw me.
I was wrong.
Because the next day, I found out he was dating my sister.
And just like that, my whole world fell apart.
So I did the only thing I could.
I started dating my best friend to make him jealous.
I never noticed her.
But somehow, I always felt her. In the crowd. On the field. In my dreams.
And I didn’t even know it…until I lost her.
I made a bet to save my career.
Let her sister pull the strings.
And now I’m stuck in a lie I can’t get out of.
But the truth?
I was already in love.
With the wrong girl.
The one I never saw until it was too late.
My Thoughts:
I was hooked by the story line from the start. This story blends Cinderella‑like magic with gut‑wrenching heartbreak. Winter has been in love with Jeremy the high school football star since she was 7, but Jeremy didn’t even know she existed until 1 day when he thought she was going to give him the answers to the test he needed to pass. To tears in my eyes and then filled with laughter. If you enjoy Sports Romance, popular guy, shy girl, coaching's daughter, twists and family drama then add this to your TBR list.
Thanks NetGalley, Author and Publisher Camelia Varga for the advanced copy of "RuleBreaker" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#AuthorCameliaVarga
#PublisherCamelisVarga
#RuleBreaker
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Camelia Varga
Blurb:
Jeremy Hayden is everything I ever wanted.
He’s the captain of the football team, the golden boy, the man every woman craves.
But there’s one problem. He doesn’t even know I exist.
Until one night, when he walked into my room.
For a second, I thought everything was finally changing.
That he finally saw me.
I was wrong.
Because the next day, I found out he was dating my sister.
And just like that, my whole world fell apart.
So I did the only thing I could.
I started dating my best friend to make him jealous.
I never noticed her.
But somehow, I always felt her. In the crowd. On the field. In my dreams.
And I didn’t even know it…until I lost her.
I made a bet to save my career.
Let her sister pull the strings.
And now I’m stuck in a lie I can’t get out of.
But the truth?
I was already in love.
With the wrong girl.
The one I never saw until it was too late.
My Thoughts:
I was hooked by the story line from the start. This story blends Cinderella‑like magic with gut‑wrenching heartbreak. Winter has been in love with Jeremy the high school football star since she was 7, but Jeremy didn’t even know she existed until 1 day when he thought she was going to give him the answers to the test he needed to pass. To tears in my eyes and then filled with laughter. If you enjoy Sports Romance, popular guy, shy girl, coaching's daughter, twists and family drama then add this to your TBR list.
Thanks NetGalley, Author and Publisher Camelia Varga for the advanced copy of "RuleBreaker" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#AuthorCameliaVarga
#PublisherCamelisVarga
#RuleBreaker
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 29, 2025
Thanks for the arc, #NetGalley! #RuleBreaker
This book was intriguing, I'm not gonna lie. It had a good plot and the story was overall good, but it was way to fast. I feel like we skipped to the ending and then we had a two year. I usually love instant love and all that, but this one felt too rush. Winter was a bit of a pushover by moment. She did push Sophie, her sister, by moment. But she kept mostly to herself. Or she opened up to Isaac, which I was glad to know she had someone in her corner.
For Jeremy, is was reallly fucked up what he did to Winter. To messing with her and then falling in love with her. Just to end up dating Sophie? And he had the audacity to get mad at Isaac. Like chill a bit. But he was super sweet to Winter when he wanted. Calling her Little Snow and getting Jasmin in his house cause Winter smelled like Jasmin was just soooo adorable!
I cannot forgive the fate that Isaac had. Like he was such an amazing character. He had so much potential!
I just simply hate Winter's mom. Gotta say the plot twist at the end was AMAZING! I seriously was not expecting that at all!! But the way her dad was affected, hurted me cause you could see that it affected him hard. Winter was her sunshine and you could see that he loved her sooo much.
At the end, it was a very good story, that you can read literally in one setting, like I did haha.
I give overall a 3.25/5 stars⭐️
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
This book was intriguing, I'm not gonna lie. It had a good plot and the story was overall good, but it was way to fast. I feel like we skipped to the ending and then we had a two year. I usually love instant love and all that, but this one felt too rush. Winter was a bit of a pushover by moment. She did push Sophie, her sister, by moment. But she kept mostly to herself. Or she opened up to Isaac, which I was glad to know she had someone in her corner.
For Jeremy, is was reallly fucked up what he did to Winter. To messing with her and then falling in love with her. Just to end up dating Sophie? And he had the audacity to get mad at Isaac. Like chill a bit. But he was super sweet to Winter when he wanted. Calling her Little Snow and getting Jasmin in his house cause Winter smelled like Jasmin was just soooo adorable!
I cannot forgive the fate that Isaac had. Like he was such an amazing character. He had so much potential!
I just simply hate Winter's mom. Gotta say the plot twist at the end was AMAZING! I seriously was not expecting that at all!! But the way her dad was affected, hurted me cause you could see that it affected him hard. Winter was her sunshine and you could see that he loved her sooo much.
At the end, it was a very good story, that you can read literally in one setting, like I did haha.
I give overall a 3.25/5 stars⭐️
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2025
⭐️ A story with potential, but too confusing to fully enjoy
RuleBreaker by Camelia Varga had an intriguing setup—a forbidden romance full of tension, heartbreak, and complicated relationships—but the execution left me more frustrated than invested. The story had the emotional groundwork for something powerful, yet the pacing and confusing plot made it hard to follow.
Jeremy and Winter’s relationship should have been filled with intensity and longing, but the narrative often felt disjointed, with sudden shifts that made it difficult to stay connected to their story. I found myself rereading sections just to figure out what was really happening.
Character motivations were also hard to grasp. Sophie’s reactions were especially inconsistent—one minute she hated Winter, and the next she pitied her. It made her character feel unpredictable in a way that didn’t always make sense. On top of that, it was confusing to understand why Winter’s best friend, Isaac, seemed to resent her living situation but was also in love with Sophie, who was a huge part of the problems at home. The emotional dynamics between these three characters never quite added up.
There were glimmers of strong writing and emotion throughout, but the lack of clarity and uneven character development made it difficult to connect with the story or care deeply about the outcome.
💬 Final thoughts: RuleBreaker had plenty of drama and potential for emotional depth, but the confusing storytelling and tangled character relationships kept it from living up to what it could have been.
RuleBreaker by Camelia Varga had an intriguing setup—a forbidden romance full of tension, heartbreak, and complicated relationships—but the execution left me more frustrated than invested. The story had the emotional groundwork for something powerful, yet the pacing and confusing plot made it hard to follow.
Jeremy and Winter’s relationship should have been filled with intensity and longing, but the narrative often felt disjointed, with sudden shifts that made it difficult to stay connected to their story. I found myself rereading sections just to figure out what was really happening.
Character motivations were also hard to grasp. Sophie’s reactions were especially inconsistent—one minute she hated Winter, and the next she pitied her. It made her character feel unpredictable in a way that didn’t always make sense. On top of that, it was confusing to understand why Winter’s best friend, Isaac, seemed to resent her living situation but was also in love with Sophie, who was a huge part of the problems at home. The emotional dynamics between these three characters never quite added up.
There were glimmers of strong writing and emotion throughout, but the lack of clarity and uneven character development made it difficult to connect with the story or care deeply about the outcome.
💬 Final thoughts: RuleBreaker had plenty of drama and potential for emotional depth, but the confusing storytelling and tangled character relationships kept it from living up to what it could have been.
October 20, 2025
Okay Camelia you did it with this one! I’ve read books by her before and getting to ARC read this book is just amazing. I loved the characters, the story and the plot. It had me hooked right away and once I started reading I couldn’t put it down until I finished it.
Winter is stuck living with her parents with a mother who hits her and a father who does nothing and a sister who bullies her. Oh and the man she’s dreamed of for years? Doesn’t as much as look her way. Until one day a mistake happens with seating and now that he’s seen her he can’t stop. Jeremy accepts a dare that changes his whole life. A hookup for his dream life. An easy choice to make. But is it as easy to let Winter go and walk away again? And can Willow handle the heartbreak that follows? Or will she break this time? Once and for all?
I absolutely loved this book. Oh and it’s American football (yay!) so it’s a sports romance. I’m a sucker for a goods sports romance and this was no different. I absolutely loved the book and I’m honored that I got to ARC read it. Thank you Camelia! So if you’re looking for an amazing sports romance then look no further! It’s definitely lighter than some of her other books like Haunting Hearts but it can still be seen as dark so do check your triggers before reading! Now I’m not going to say much more so you can dig into this book yourself! Highly recommend! Oh and I almost forgot 5/5⭐️. Spice? I’d say a 🌶️🌶️.5/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.
Winter is stuck living with her parents with a mother who hits her and a father who does nothing and a sister who bullies her. Oh and the man she’s dreamed of for years? Doesn’t as much as look her way. Until one day a mistake happens with seating and now that he’s seen her he can’t stop. Jeremy accepts a dare that changes his whole life. A hookup for his dream life. An easy choice to make. But is it as easy to let Winter go and walk away again? And can Willow handle the heartbreak that follows? Or will she break this time? Once and for all?
I absolutely loved this book. Oh and it’s American football (yay!) so it’s a sports romance. I’m a sucker for a goods sports romance and this was no different. I absolutely loved the book and I’m honored that I got to ARC read it. Thank you Camelia! So if you’re looking for an amazing sports romance then look no further! It’s definitely lighter than some of her other books like Haunting Hearts but it can still be seen as dark so do check your triggers before reading! Now I’m not going to say much more so you can dig into this book yourself! Highly recommend! Oh and I almost forgot 5/5⭐️. Spice? I’d say a 🌶️🌶️.5/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️.
October 25, 2025
3.5 Stars
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Wow, where do I even begin with this book…
I only skimmed the description before diving in. I expected things to get a little wild due to the title of the book, but I could’ve never predicted the level of chaos that was about to unfold. When I say the male main character Jeremy is unhinged, that’s an understatement. When I say Winter’s family is horrible, that’s also an understatement. The amount of angst, drama, and pure emotional carnage in this book is unreal.
Winter’s pain was heavy, and there were moments that were genuinely hard to read, but her friendship with Isaac was such a bright spot. I loved seeing the two of them lean on each other through everything.
I didn’t expect so many plot twists, which literally made me gasp out loud. I started reading around 8 p.m. and didn’t put it down until 3 a.m., which should tell you everything you need to know. Was it unrealistic at times? Absolutely. Did I care? Not even a little. Once you’re sucked into this world, it’s impossible to walk away.
If you love yearning, jealousy, and the kind of possessive chaos that makes you wonder if someone should get arrested then this book is for you.
I also appreciated that the ending didn’t try to tie everything up with a neat little bow. Some things stayed unresolved, and that felt real since not every relationship can bounce back after that much damage.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Wow, where do I even begin with this book…
I only skimmed the description before diving in. I expected things to get a little wild due to the title of the book, but I could’ve never predicted the level of chaos that was about to unfold. When I say the male main character Jeremy is unhinged, that’s an understatement. When I say Winter’s family is horrible, that’s also an understatement. The amount of angst, drama, and pure emotional carnage in this book is unreal.
Winter’s pain was heavy, and there were moments that were genuinely hard to read, but her friendship with Isaac was such a bright spot. I loved seeing the two of them lean on each other through everything.
I didn’t expect so many plot twists, which literally made me gasp out loud. I started reading around 8 p.m. and didn’t put it down until 3 a.m., which should tell you everything you need to know. Was it unrealistic at times? Absolutely. Did I care? Not even a little. Once you’re sucked into this world, it’s impossible to walk away.
If you love yearning, jealousy, and the kind of possessive chaos that makes you wonder if someone should get arrested then this book is for you.
I also appreciated that the ending didn’t try to tie everything up with a neat little bow. Some things stayed unresolved, and that felt real since not every relationship can bounce back after that much damage.
November 8, 2025
I have to say I understand both people who love and people who hate this book, because it's a hit or miss. I stand somewhere inbetween.
This had so much potential but somewhere in the middle the story became too messy for me.
The writing itself is good, the author built up the characters beautifully there was emotional depth but in the end we wanted to do a little too much in my opinion.
I will never be able to forgive Isaac's death because he was the only person who was there everytime for Winter. They were basically the same person and felt like soulmates. It would have been better if was who Winter ended up with in my opinion.
I think Jeremy was an asshole most of the time and by the time he realised what he had done he would have deserved Winter's hate but of course that didn't happen.
Winter's sister and mother were the center of my hate. They were so horrible people, the "mother" blaming the kid for her own mistakes and the sister being so spoiled she would throw a tantrum if she couldn't get one thing.
The plot twist at the end was something I never could have guessed and I was so sorry for Winter and her dad because even if not by blood he was the father.
Overall if you want your heart ripped to pieces and a book that will keep you reading from first sentence to last then this is the book for you because this is a heartbreaking book that you can read in one sitting.
This had so much potential but somewhere in the middle the story became too messy for me.
The writing itself is good, the author built up the characters beautifully there was emotional depth but in the end we wanted to do a little too much in my opinion.
I will never be able to forgive Isaac's death because he was the only person who was there everytime for Winter. They were basically the same person and felt like soulmates. It would have been better if was who Winter ended up with in my opinion.
I think Jeremy was an asshole most of the time and by the time he realised what he had done he would have deserved Winter's hate but of course that didn't happen.
Winter's sister and mother were the center of my hate. They were so horrible people, the "mother" blaming the kid for her own mistakes and the sister being so spoiled she would throw a tantrum if she couldn't get one thing.
The plot twist at the end was something I never could have guessed and I was so sorry for Winter and her dad because even if not by blood he was the father.
Overall if you want your heart ripped to pieces and a book that will keep you reading from first sentence to last then this is the book for you because this is a heartbreaking book that you can read in one sitting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2025
An emotional new adult sports romance that had my heart melting and then breaking only to put it back together again. Sometimes you just need a little teenage angst and drama in your life and this book definitely delivered in spades. The emotional hits just kept coming one after another.
There's something about the bad boy player that ends up only having eyes for one girl...man did I initially hate Jeremy. He was the worst at the start of the book but then you get in deeper and you just end up loving him.
Our poor sweet FMC Winter went through some awful emotional abuse. I just wanted to give her a big hug. Poor thing, her sister is the worst and her mother is straight up unhinged psycho evil.
Winter and Jeremy have that crackling intense attraction, the longing, and the delicious angst gave me that heart-in-my-throat feeling as I read their story. The anticipation and build-up were so good.
There were moments I could have done without and parts that seemed like they came out of nowhere so I had trouble with inconsistencies. I 100% could have done without how the author did Issac. Overall I still read the whole book because of the drama and looking for that HEA which was mildly satisfying.
Tropes:
Football player
Coach's daughter
Both Obsessed
Popular guy + Shy girl
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you NetGalley and Camelia Varga for the opportunity to read this eARC.
There's something about the bad boy player that ends up only having eyes for one girl...man did I initially hate Jeremy. He was the worst at the start of the book but then you get in deeper and you just end up loving him.
Our poor sweet FMC Winter went through some awful emotional abuse. I just wanted to give her a big hug. Poor thing, her sister is the worst and her mother is straight up unhinged psycho evil.
Winter and Jeremy have that crackling intense attraction, the longing, and the delicious angst gave me that heart-in-my-throat feeling as I read their story. The anticipation and build-up were so good.
There were moments I could have done without and parts that seemed like they came out of nowhere so I had trouble with inconsistencies. I 100% could have done without how the author did Issac. Overall I still read the whole book because of the drama and looking for that HEA which was mildly satisfying.
Tropes:
Football player
Coach's daughter
Both Obsessed
Popular guy + Shy girl
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you NetGalley and Camelia Varga for the opportunity to read this eARC.
October 26, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC.
The cover was what intrigued me to read this book, but as I was reading I felt like there some things that just didn’t tie well with others.
Winter grow a backbone, she is not as strong as it was portrayed. A lot of everything that happened to her could have been avoided if she defended herself better.
Jeremy how do you go from screwing everyone around to falling head over heels for the one girl you were told to break her heart. You didn’t even know her 5 minutes before and you getting jealous about someone looking at her!
Also, how old are these characters that they had such flexible schedules and got away with way more than they should’ve.
I don’t forgive the author for doing what she did to Isaac, I feel like a better relationship would have been better to form between Winter and Isaac.
Screw her family, especially her sister and mom. Sophie being so bipolar to “i hate my sister” to crying about how her mother treats her. Like GTFO her girl you hate her, can’t justify your feelings or treatment for whenever it’s convenient for you.
Glad the author had some sense to not try to make a “happy ending” with her family and made sure Jeremy didn’t go back to his whore ways.
The cover was what intrigued me to read this book, but as I was reading I felt like there some things that just didn’t tie well with others.
Winter grow a backbone, she is not as strong as it was portrayed. A lot of everything that happened to her could have been avoided if she defended herself better.
Jeremy how do you go from screwing everyone around to falling head over heels for the one girl you were told to break her heart. You didn’t even know her 5 minutes before and you getting jealous about someone looking at her!
Also, how old are these characters that they had such flexible schedules and got away with way more than they should’ve.
I don’t forgive the author for doing what she did to Isaac, I feel like a better relationship would have been better to form between Winter and Isaac.
Screw her family, especially her sister and mom. Sophie being so bipolar to “i hate my sister” to crying about how her mother treats her. Like GTFO her girl you hate her, can’t justify your feelings or treatment for whenever it’s convenient for you.
Glad the author had some sense to not try to make a “happy ending” with her family and made sure Jeremy didn’t go back to his whore ways.
October 28, 2025
This book truly surprised me. Despite being a bit messy at times, I ended up really enjoying it. It follows the familiar dynamic between the popular football star with a bad-boy reputation and the invisible girl who falls for him. Winter’s feelings for Jeremy can come across as a little obsessive, but considering we’re dealing with teenagers and all their intensity, it felt believable enough.
The story does an excellent job of conveying raw emotion — I was completely hooked from the very first page. Winter’s family, however, is absolutely terrible. Even her father, who initially appears to be the most reasonable one, ultimately fails her in unforgivable ways. There were several moments that genuinely made me gasp.
If I had to point out one shortcoming, it would be the lack of emotional depth between Jeremy and Winter. For a good part of the story, their connection feels driven more by physical attraction than by true understanding or communication. I wish their bond had been explored more deeply beyond the lust and tension.
Overall, it’s an intense and emotional read that kept me turning the pages from start to finish.
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story does an excellent job of conveying raw emotion — I was completely hooked from the very first page. Winter’s family, however, is absolutely terrible. Even her father, who initially appears to be the most reasonable one, ultimately fails her in unforgivable ways. There were several moments that genuinely made me gasp.
If I had to point out one shortcoming, it would be the lack of emotional depth between Jeremy and Winter. For a good part of the story, their connection feels driven more by physical attraction than by true understanding or communication. I wish their bond had been explored more deeply beyond the lust and tension.
Overall, it’s an intense and emotional read that kept me turning the pages from start to finish.
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2025
Wahou.
Just wahou.
How do you describe a book that gave you everything!
I don’t know how to review it without spoiling it.
It is not your regular sport romance book.
My emotions went through a roller coaster 🎢.
It started by the FMC giving me second hand embarrassment. At one point I had to close my eyes and kindle to try to forget about it.
The MMC broke my heart and got me routing for a sec for the male FMC best friend (this is not a love triangle, read the book and you will get my point 😅)
But at the same time each interaction between Winter (the FMC) and Jeremy (the MMC) was fire.
The jealousy, the « games », the second part of the book got my heart beating way too fast.
Then there is family dynamics and girl, yes I am talking to you Camelia Varga, (& after what you made me feel without asking for my consent 😌, I think I can be familiar to you), girl what was that???
How could you do that to us. You made me cry while I was waiting for my plane and once more when I was IN the plane.
You broke my heart, mended it back together but the scars are here.
Thank you & the universe for the HEA, otherwise I would have send you my therapy bills.
This book deserves some hype!
Just wahou.
How do you describe a book that gave you everything!
I don’t know how to review it without spoiling it.
It is not your regular sport romance book.
My emotions went through a roller coaster 🎢.
It started by the FMC giving me second hand embarrassment. At one point I had to close my eyes and kindle to try to forget about it.
The MMC broke my heart and got me routing for a sec for the male FMC best friend (this is not a love triangle, read the book and you will get my point 😅)
But at the same time each interaction between Winter (the FMC) and Jeremy (the MMC) was fire.
The jealousy, the « games », the second part of the book got my heart beating way too fast.
Then there is family dynamics and girl, yes I am talking to you Camelia Varga, (& after what you made me feel without asking for my consent 😌, I think I can be familiar to you), girl what was that???
How could you do that to us. You made me cry while I was waiting for my plane and once more when I was IN the plane.
You broke my heart, mended it back together but the scars are here.
Thank you & the universe for the HEA, otherwise I would have send you my therapy bills.
This book deserves some hype!
October 20, 2025
Okay so this is not your fluffy lil romance. This book is DRAMA. Like—every single bad thing that could possibly happen to two people? Happened to Jeremy and Winter. I swear I needed emotional support after about 5 pages.
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t fully convinced on Jeremy at first. In fact, I was kinda rooting for Isaac and Winter (don’t come for me 😭). But somewhere along the line… Jeremy grew on me. Slowly, painfully, but he did.
The characters? Messy in the best way. Sophie had me dizzy—one second she’s handing her sister snacks, next second she’s trying to steal the man she likes. Whiplash central.
And honestly? Everyone except Isaac failed Winter. That girl deserved so much better.
I did love the whole “Jeremy only made a move because Sophie asked him to” plotline—it added such a morally grey layer—but I wish it had been dragged out longer. Give me more angst! More depth!
✨ Overall: chaotic, emotional, and absolutely un-put-downable. Not a comfort read, but a compelling one.
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t fully convinced on Jeremy at first. In fact, I was kinda rooting for Isaac and Winter (don’t come for me 😭). But somewhere along the line… Jeremy grew on me. Slowly, painfully, but he did.
The characters? Messy in the best way. Sophie had me dizzy—one second she’s handing her sister snacks, next second she’s trying to steal the man she likes. Whiplash central.
And honestly? Everyone except Isaac failed Winter. That girl deserved so much better.
I did love the whole “Jeremy only made a move because Sophie asked him to” plotline—it added such a morally grey layer—but I wish it had been dragged out longer. Give me more angst! More depth!
✨ Overall: chaotic, emotional, and absolutely un-put-downable. Not a comfort read, but a compelling one.
October 24, 2025
Okay so this book was not my favorite. I do love how messy all the characters were I lived for the drama, but some things were a bit rushed. There were some moments where I cringed and got second hand embarrassment but if you are looking for a fast paced book that never runs out of plot line then this is book perfect.
If you are a fan of fake dating, overprotective male love interests, love triangles, and some miscommunication then this book is right up your alley. It is also written in dual POV which is nice and the chapters are short.
I was not a fan of Winter’s family like at all,but I was a huge fan of Isaac which made me a bit disappointed, I don’t think he got the ending he deserved.
Overall I think a lot of people would love this book based on the tropes and the love interests alone. I can’t wait to see the love and praise that this book gets on publishing day! Huge thank you to Camelia Varga, Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book!
If you are a fan of fake dating, overprotective male love interests, love triangles, and some miscommunication then this book is right up your alley. It is also written in dual POV which is nice and the chapters are short.
I was not a fan of Winter’s family like at all,but I was a huge fan of Isaac which made me a bit disappointed, I don’t think he got the ending he deserved.
Overall I think a lot of people would love this book based on the tropes and the love interests alone. I can’t wait to see the love and praise that this book gets on publishing day! Huge thank you to Camelia Varga, Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book!
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