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Royal Oaks Prep #1
Cruel Rule
I kissed the king of Royal Oaks Prep. Now I’m his favorite target.
Leo Holt is rich, ruthless, and ridiculously hot.
Captain of the basketball team.
Worshipped by the school.
Feared by everyone else.
And me?
I'm the new girl. The nobody.
The mistake he never saw coming.
One stolen kiss at a summer bonfire—that’s all it took to paint a target on my back.
Now he’s made it his mission to destroy me, one brutal rumor at a time.
But I don’t scare easy.
I don’t cry in the bathroom.
And I sure as hell don’t bow to bullies—no matter how good they look in a varsity jacket.
Leo Holt thinks he can break me?
He’s dead wrong.
Because I’ve got secrets of my own.
And when the queen rises… the king falls.
Perfect for fans
💔 High school bully romance
🔥 Enemies-to-lovers tension
👑 Alpha bad boys & fierce heroines
🎓 Prep school drama with real heart
💋 First kisses, cruel games, and slow-burn passion
(THIS IS BOOK ONE OF A TWO BOOK SERIES MINI CLIFF)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“My new obsession!”
I devoured this in one sitting. Leo Holt is the arrogant, broken, brooding bad boy of my dreams, and the heroine? An actual queen. I was hooked from the bonfire kiss to the final twist. If you love cruel games, sizzling tension, and girls who fight back, this book is for you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Best bully romance of the year.”
This book has EVERYTHING.
💋 First kiss at a bonfire? Check.
👑 Arrogant alpha who secretly cares? Check.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Read this if you love Zodiac Academy, Elite, or Cruel Prince.”
The Gold Royal Oak setting gave dark academia perfection, and the dynamics between Leo and the heroine were FIRE. Every time he called her “Gitanilla” I MELTED. I need this adapted to Netflix immediately.
#LeoHoltForever #PromKingFanClub
🎓 Rich kids, power plays, and private school chaos? DOUBLE CHECK.
The writing is sharp, the pacing flawless, and the heat? Let's just say I highlighted a lot.
Leo Holt is rich, ruthless, and ridiculously hot.
Captain of the basketball team.
Worshipped by the school.
Feared by everyone else.
And me?
I'm the new girl. The nobody.
The mistake he never saw coming.
One stolen kiss at a summer bonfire—that’s all it took to paint a target on my back.
Now he’s made it his mission to destroy me, one brutal rumor at a time.
But I don’t scare easy.
I don’t cry in the bathroom.
And I sure as hell don’t bow to bullies—no matter how good they look in a varsity jacket.
Leo Holt thinks he can break me?
He’s dead wrong.
Because I’ve got secrets of my own.
And when the queen rises… the king falls.
Perfect for fans
💔 High school bully romance
🔥 Enemies-to-lovers tension
👑 Alpha bad boys & fierce heroines
🎓 Prep school drama with real heart
💋 First kisses, cruel games, and slow-burn passion
(THIS IS BOOK ONE OF A TWO BOOK SERIES MINI CLIFF)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“My new obsession!”
I devoured this in one sitting. Leo Holt is the arrogant, broken, brooding bad boy of my dreams, and the heroine? An actual queen. I was hooked from the bonfire kiss to the final twist. If you love cruel games, sizzling tension, and girls who fight back, this book is for you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Best bully romance of the year.”
This book has EVERYTHING.
💋 First kiss at a bonfire? Check.
👑 Arrogant alpha who secretly cares? Check.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐“Read this if you love Zodiac Academy, Elite, or Cruel Prince.”
The Gold Royal Oak setting gave dark academia perfection, and the dynamics between Leo and the heroine were FIRE. Every time he called her “Gitanilla” I MELTED. I need this adapted to Netflix immediately.
#LeoHoltForever #PromKingFanClub
🎓 Rich kids, power plays, and private school chaos? DOUBLE CHECK.
The writing is sharp, the pacing flawless, and the heat? Let's just say I highlighted a lot.
- GenresYoung Adult
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2025
182 people are currently reading
66 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 5, 2026
I should have listened to my gut and stopped on the first page when the FMC said "visco girl". Listen, you know that gross childhood phrase "He who smelt, it dealt"? Yeah, that basically applied to this author when she said;
"Then—like a scene straight out of a Wattpad cliché—he stepped closer."
I feel like she was trying to be witty here, like "Maybe if I say it first, people won't ACTUALLY comment that this is, in fact, a Wattpad cliche'!" and a horrible one at that.
For starters, the FMC was the most annoyingly overdramatic, self-insert chick I've read in a while. The kind of character who needs an assistant to carry around a fainting couch she can flop down on dramatically while saying "Oh EM GEE, everyone is so *mean* to me!!" 😭😭😭😭 She acts like she's been the victim of human trafficking and a locker room gang bang, not photoshopped bullshit! I'm not saying it's nothing, but her reaction to bullying that is maybe a 4/10 on the bully scale is as though she suffered bullying that is 1000/10 😂🤦🏼♀️
The writing was bad, I felt like I was reading a 15 year old girls creative writing journal. She did this MADDENING thing where she'd give you the same conversation from both characters PoV, but then she'd CHANGE the dialogue!
Like from Jade's PoV when she first has a convo with Leo, she asks how he knows she isn't from around here. He says because she doesn't have a spray tan and laminated eyebrows. When we get Leo's perspective, after she asks how he knows she isn't from around here, he instead says "Your shoe's are still clean" Gah!🤬🤬🤬 This didn't happen just once or twice, this was constant! In book two, an entire chapter was repeated twice! Not back to back either. Timelines changed randomly, Days went by and then were somehow repeated again. Information that was already given, was given again and everyone was shocked by it.It's like she kept all her ideas drafts in a folder and then never sorted them and just put them together and called it a book.
I started skipping and skimming about the 4th chapter in, skimmed to the end, went to the next book, skimmed through that where I got one of the most hilariously bad lines from the heroine. It's supposed to be her "I'm a bad ass" mic drop comeback lines, but instead we got;
"You wanted me gone. You got your viral moment. But here's the thing about queens, Bianca—they don't abdicate. They abdicate you."
😂😂😂😂💀💀💀💀💀😭😭😭😭
Whaaaaaat?! Girl, I don't think that word means what you think it means. You can't "abdicate" another person, it goes against the very definition of the word. You can usurp or depose someone but you can't "abdicate" someone else. In fact, the ONLY person who can abdicate from their position is the person in the position themselves 🤦🏼♀️ If I were Bianca, I'd have just stared at her for a second before cracking up laughing. It reminds me of "Not another teen movie" when the cheerleader girl is mocking the whole "bring it on" speech and says "Oh, it's already been BROUGHTEN" 😂😂 In fact, I think thinking of it as a satire is what carried me through skimming both books. It gets more and more overblown and ridiculous as we go on. Netflix specials for a chick who had glue put in her hair? Global fame? Are you kidding me? The FMC is supposed to be "So real and not faking anything or doing it for the publicity" but the entire damn thing, every single person is talking about, posting on and looking at everyone else's social media and hashtags😂🤦🏼♀️
This was also completely closed door. There may have been some comment to that effect in the blurb, but I didn't catch it. So there wasn't even any sex to carry it through.
Ultimately, if you're in the mood for a badly written YA daydream, just stick to Wattpad.
"Then—like a scene straight out of a Wattpad cliché—he stepped closer."
I feel like she was trying to be witty here, like "Maybe if I say it first, people won't ACTUALLY comment that this is, in fact, a Wattpad cliche'!" and a horrible one at that.
For starters, the FMC was the most annoyingly overdramatic, self-insert chick I've read in a while. The kind of character who needs an assistant to carry around a fainting couch she can flop down on dramatically while saying "Oh EM GEE, everyone is so *mean* to me!!" 😭😭😭😭 She acts like she's been the victim of human trafficking and a locker room gang bang, not photoshopped bullshit! I'm not saying it's nothing, but her reaction to bullying that is maybe a 4/10 on the bully scale is as though she suffered bullying that is 1000/10 😂🤦🏼♀️
The writing was bad, I felt like I was reading a 15 year old girls creative writing journal. She did this MADDENING thing where she'd give you the same conversation from both characters PoV, but then she'd CHANGE the dialogue!
Like from Jade's PoV when she first has a convo with Leo, she asks how he knows she isn't from around here. He says because she doesn't have a spray tan and laminated eyebrows. When we get Leo's perspective, after she asks how he knows she isn't from around here, he instead says "Your shoe's are still clean" Gah!🤬🤬🤬 This didn't happen just once or twice, this was constant! In book two, an entire chapter was repeated twice! Not back to back either. Timelines changed randomly, Days went by and then were somehow repeated again. Information that was already given, was given again and everyone was shocked by it.It's like she kept all her ideas drafts in a folder and then never sorted them and just put them together and called it a book.
I started skipping and skimming about the 4th chapter in, skimmed to the end, went to the next book, skimmed through that where I got one of the most hilariously bad lines from the heroine. It's supposed to be her "I'm a bad ass" mic drop comeback lines, but instead we got;
"You wanted me gone. You got your viral moment. But here's the thing about queens, Bianca—they don't abdicate. They abdicate you."
😂😂😂😂💀💀💀💀💀😭😭😭😭
Whaaaaaat?! Girl, I don't think that word means what you think it means. You can't "abdicate" another person, it goes against the very definition of the word. You can usurp or depose someone but you can't "abdicate" someone else. In fact, the ONLY person who can abdicate from their position is the person in the position themselves 🤦🏼♀️ If I were Bianca, I'd have just stared at her for a second before cracking up laughing. It reminds me of "Not another teen movie" when the cheerleader girl is mocking the whole "bring it on" speech and says "Oh, it's already been BROUGHTEN" 😂😂 In fact, I think thinking of it as a satire is what carried me through skimming both books. It gets more and more overblown and ridiculous as we go on. Netflix specials for a chick who had glue put in her hair? Global fame? Are you kidding me? The FMC is supposed to be "So real and not faking anything or doing it for the publicity" but the entire damn thing, every single person is talking about, posting on and looking at everyone else's social media and hashtags😂🤦🏼♀️
This was also completely closed door. There may have been some comment to that effect in the blurb, but I didn't catch it. So there wasn't even any sex to carry it through.
Ultimately, if you're in the mood for a badly written YA daydream, just stick to Wattpad.
January 12, 2026
4 stars for me.
Jade wants to keep her head down and survive her senioy year in new school without drama. Leo, a king of Royal Oaks Prep don't let her hide,he wants her even when that will just make Jade a target,he's elite ,she's a scholarship girl,and those two don't mix.Not being able to fight their feelings they get together soon,which is the thing that everyone wants to destroy.
Will Jade trust with her heart and let Leo get close?
I actually really enjoyed this book,which surprise me a little as it is more YA then NA.Leo as a bully was acting exacly his age,I often read about kings of school etc.,that behave older then the age insinuated,Leo while powerful also shows this vulnerability with his conflicted feelings about Jade and her safety.While it have some dark themes,I got also glimpse at the first love and sweet moments that make this book a emotional and great story.I hope Jade will tough up a little bit more,while I saw the parts that she's getting stronger,there were times that she lost all fight and wants to give up.I'm moving to book two now,and boy I really hope the bullys from old and the new school get what they deserved.
Thank you booksirens and author for copy,my review is honest and my own.
Jade wants to keep her head down and survive her senioy year in new school without drama. Leo, a king of Royal Oaks Prep don't let her hide,he wants her even when that will just make Jade a target,he's elite ,she's a scholarship girl,and those two don't mix.Not being able to fight their feelings they get together soon,which is the thing that everyone wants to destroy.
Will Jade trust with her heart and let Leo get close?
I actually really enjoyed this book,which surprise me a little as it is more YA then NA.Leo as a bully was acting exacly his age,I often read about kings of school etc.,that behave older then the age insinuated,Leo while powerful also shows this vulnerability with his conflicted feelings about Jade and her safety.While it have some dark themes,I got also glimpse at the first love and sweet moments that make this book a emotional and great story.I hope Jade will tough up a little bit more,while I saw the parts that she's getting stronger,there were times that she lost all fight and wants to give up.I'm moving to book two now,and boy I really hope the bullys from old and the new school get what they deserved.
Thank you booksirens and author for copy,my review is honest and my own.
October 14, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the first book in the Royal Oaks Prep Series. It is the story of Jade and Leo. Jade is the new girl at Royal Oaks Prep. He is the golden boy that is ruthless and the captain of the basketball team. During the summer they had a stolen moment around a bonfire. A kiss. And now she has a target on her back. He is on a mission to destroy her life. One vicious rumor at a time that he enjoys spreading a little to much. This is a slow burn or a romance with twists and turns and things you will not see coming. There is a lot of drama, a boy obsessed, total opposites attraction, bullying. You name it is in this book. I really enjoyed reading this book, and can't wait to have the next book in my hands.
This is the first book in the Royal Oaks Prep Series. It is the story of Jade and Leo. Jade is the new girl at Royal Oaks Prep. He is the golden boy that is ruthless and the captain of the basketball team. During the summer they had a stolen moment around a bonfire. A kiss. And now she has a target on her back. He is on a mission to destroy her life. One vicious rumor at a time that he enjoys spreading a little to much. This is a slow burn or a romance with twists and turns and things you will not see coming. There is a lot of drama, a boy obsessed, total opposites attraction, bullying. You name it is in this book. I really enjoyed reading this book, and can't wait to have the next book in my hands.
November 13, 2025
A brilliant new author I’ve come across has absolutely nailed their step into the world of prep school romance — complete with all the addictive tropes we love: bully-to-lovers tension, rich alpha sports jocks, and the kind of instant, all-consuming love that befalls Leo Holt, the reigning King of Royal Oaks Prep.
I truly enjoyed the character of Jade — her strength, resilience, and courage shine through every page. There’s something so captivating about an underdog who refuses to break, even when the odds are stacked against her. Jade’s down-to-earth nature and unwavering integrity make her impossible not to root for, especially as the drama unfolds.
This story delivers it all — action, emotional depth, loyal friendships, and a pure, passionate love that hits hard. And just when you think you can breathe again… that cliffhanger ending will leave you desperate for more!
I truly enjoyed the character of Jade — her strength, resilience, and courage shine through every page. There’s something so captivating about an underdog who refuses to break, even when the odds are stacked against her. Jade’s down-to-earth nature and unwavering integrity make her impossible not to root for, especially as the drama unfolds.
This story delivers it all — action, emotional depth, loyal friendships, and a pure, passionate love that hits hard. And just when you think you can breathe again… that cliffhanger ending will leave you desperate for more!
October 12, 2025
This is the first book in a new series, and this is Leo and Jade’s story.
Leo is ruthless, wealthy, and the captain of the basketball team, while Jade is the new girl at Royal Oaks Prep, and one stolen kiss at a summer bonfire—that is all it took to paint a target on her back. Now he has made it his mission to destroy her, one brutal rumour at a time.
I cannot wait to read the conclusion of Leo and Jade’s journey.
This is a well written slow burn, emotions roller coaster, with friendships, drama, tension, secrets, bullying, obsession, enemies / lovers, undeniable chemistry, engaging and realistic secondary characters, opposites attract, and is an entertaining, tragic, dark romance.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
Leo is ruthless, wealthy, and the captain of the basketball team, while Jade is the new girl at Royal Oaks Prep, and one stolen kiss at a summer bonfire—that is all it took to paint a target on her back. Now he has made it his mission to destroy her, one brutal rumour at a time.
I cannot wait to read the conclusion of Leo and Jade’s journey.
This is a well written slow burn, emotions roller coaster, with friendships, drama, tension, secrets, bullying, obsession, enemies / lovers, undeniable chemistry, engaging and realistic secondary characters, opposites attract, and is an entertaining, tragic, dark romance.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
January 8, 2026
Cruel Reign (Book 1) by J. T. Hardt
I fell in love with the main characters of this book. Jade and Leo have so much charisma together, and Aunt Sarah is so sweet. Shani is Jade's best friend and tries to help Jade cope with everything. They are all students at Royal Oak High School, and almost all have rich parents. Not Jade, she is a scholarship kid.
I could not wait for this book to come out, so I pre-ordered it. This is the second book of Jade and Leo. You will want to read Book One first, then this one. I loved both books and found the twists and turns very interesting. I highly recommend both books. I think I cried, laughed, and even got pissed reading this story. It is a wonderful read.
I fell in love with the main characters of this book. Jade and Leo have so much charisma together, and Aunt Sarah is so sweet. Shani is Jade's best friend and tries to help Jade cope with everything. They are all students at Royal Oak High School, and almost all have rich parents. Not Jade, she is a scholarship kid.
I could not wait for this book to come out, so I pre-ordered it. This is the second book of Jade and Leo. You will want to read Book One first, then this one. I loved both books and found the twists and turns very interesting. I highly recommend both books. I think I cried, laughed, and even got pissed reading this story. It is a wonderful read.
February 21, 2026
Good
I feel like this was based on a true story of a girl that was cyber bullied just like Jade. They ruined this girls life, just like Jade's Having to move out of your home town because a bunch of Jealous twats is crazy...People who bully offline or socials is a very sad person, so are the ones who follow those people doing the same, if you are laughing you are also that person.. This hurt my heart and shredded a couple of tears. Going on to book two lets see how she raises from the ashes to a beautiful Phoenix....Gina This book needs to be a class read. 9th grade and up as lessons need to be taught...
I feel like this was based on a true story of a girl that was cyber bullied just like Jade. They ruined this girls life, just like Jade's Having to move out of your home town because a bunch of Jealous twats is crazy...People who bully offline or socials is a very sad person, so are the ones who follow those people doing the same, if you are laughing you are also that person.. This hurt my heart and shredded a couple of tears. Going on to book two lets see how she raises from the ashes to a beautiful Phoenix....Gina This book needs to be a class read. 9th grade and up as lessons need to be taught...
January 6, 2026
This book has potential but it lacks details. You get sort of lost because of the missing lines.
Also, I really wish authors would proofread their work before sending it out. There is nothing I dislike more than reading a book and the author changes the name of a person or changes the state of where the person is from.
In the middle of the book, the name of a girl and the state where Jade is from… annoying because it ruins the whole vibe.
Proofreading is your friend.
Take this back and edit it. It can be a good book.
Also, I really wish authors would proofread their work before sending it out. There is nothing I dislike more than reading a book and the author changes the name of a person or changes the state of where the person is from.
In the middle of the book, the name of a girl and the state where Jade is from… annoying because it ruins the whole vibe.
Proofreading is your friend.
Take this back and edit it. It can be a good book.
October 2, 2025
This is the first book I have read from this author and I can not wait to read more. The MCs had such fire between them even when they were fighting. The plot was refreshing and flowed easily. I could not wait to turn the page to find out what happened next. The supporting characters were so awesome I want books on them. I can not wait to read the conclusion of Leo and Jade's story.
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.
October 6, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
December 28, 2025
wish it was longer but other than that i loved it so much, i love jade and leo 💖💖😭😭
January 11, 2026
Nice fast read for when you are laid up sick in bed.
September 30, 2025
Jade kissed the king of Royal Oaks Prep. Now she's his favorite target.
Leo Holt is not only rich but also ruthless and ridiculously hot.
He's the captain of the basketball team.
He is worshipped by everyone in the school.
And those who don't worship him, fear him.
And Jade?
She's just the new girl. She feels like a nobody.
Just the mistake that Leo never saw coming.
It started with one stolen kiss at an innocent summer bonfire – that's all it took to paint the target on her back.
Now Leo has made it his mission to destroy her, with one brutal rumour at a time.
But Leo doesn't know that Jade doesn't scare easily.
And she doesn't cry in the bathroom.
And Jade sure as shit doesn't bow down to bullies – no matter how good they look in a varsity jacket.
Leo Holt is sure that he's going to be able to break her.
But he's dead wrong.
Because Jade has secrets of her own.
And when the queen rises...the king is going to fall.
(THIS IS BOOK ONE OF A TWO-BOOK SERIES MINI CLIFF)
Tropes: High School Bully Romance, Enemies To Lovers Tension, Alpha Bad Boy, Fierce FMC, Prep School Drama with Real Heart, First Kisses, Cruel Games, and Slow Burn Passion.
Cruel Rule is the 1st book in the Royal Oaks Prep series by J.T. Hardt an Elite Prep School Bully Romance. I found this book to be such an electrifying start to this series. It was so detailed that it pulled me in and just had me hooked from the first chapter. I fell in love with this book and I can't wait for the next book. I found this book took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions that was perfect for an enemies-to-lovers romance.
Jade is the new girl at Royal Oaks Prep, an elite prep school. After a stolen kiss Jade finds herself the target of Leo Holt, the school's popular and ruthless basketball captain. The stolen kiss ignites the most dangerous game of power and attraction Jade has ever played. You can't deny the chemistry between Jade and Leo as it sizzles off the page like electricity, and it's filled with all the tension and longing that will keep you hooked from the first page to the very last word.
J.T. Hardt has masterfully blended high school drama with an intense romance, delivering the perfect roller coaster of emotions and angst. You can see and almost feel Jade's resilience and Leo has such a complex character that adds a perfect depth to the narrative, and that makes this more than just your typical bully romance.
And all I can hope is that once this duet is complete we can see secondary characters getting their own stories told.
And that cliffhanger at the end, it will leave you demanding the 2nd half of this duet as soon as possible.
I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of enemies-to-lovers, angst, and spice making Cruel Rule the perfect must-read. The perfect blend of romance and suspense that will leave you counting down the days till you can get your hands on the next book.
Leo Holt is not only rich but also ruthless and ridiculously hot.
He's the captain of the basketball team.
He is worshipped by everyone in the school.
And those who don't worship him, fear him.
And Jade?
She's just the new girl. She feels like a nobody.
Just the mistake that Leo never saw coming.
It started with one stolen kiss at an innocent summer bonfire – that's all it took to paint the target on her back.
Now Leo has made it his mission to destroy her, with one brutal rumour at a time.
But Leo doesn't know that Jade doesn't scare easily.
And she doesn't cry in the bathroom.
And Jade sure as shit doesn't bow down to bullies – no matter how good they look in a varsity jacket.
Leo Holt is sure that he's going to be able to break her.
But he's dead wrong.
Because Jade has secrets of her own.
And when the queen rises...the king is going to fall.
(THIS IS BOOK ONE OF A TWO-BOOK SERIES MINI CLIFF)
Tropes: High School Bully Romance, Enemies To Lovers Tension, Alpha Bad Boy, Fierce FMC, Prep School Drama with Real Heart, First Kisses, Cruel Games, and Slow Burn Passion.
Cruel Rule is the 1st book in the Royal Oaks Prep series by J.T. Hardt an Elite Prep School Bully Romance. I found this book to be such an electrifying start to this series. It was so detailed that it pulled me in and just had me hooked from the first chapter. I fell in love with this book and I can't wait for the next book. I found this book took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions that was perfect for an enemies-to-lovers romance.
Jade is the new girl at Royal Oaks Prep, an elite prep school. After a stolen kiss Jade finds herself the target of Leo Holt, the school's popular and ruthless basketball captain. The stolen kiss ignites the most dangerous game of power and attraction Jade has ever played. You can't deny the chemistry between Jade and Leo as it sizzles off the page like electricity, and it's filled with all the tension and longing that will keep you hooked from the first page to the very last word.
J.T. Hardt has masterfully blended high school drama with an intense romance, delivering the perfect roller coaster of emotions and angst. You can see and almost feel Jade's resilience and Leo has such a complex character that adds a perfect depth to the narrative, and that makes this more than just your typical bully romance.
And all I can hope is that once this duet is complete we can see secondary characters getting their own stories told.
And that cliffhanger at the end, it will leave you demanding the 2nd half of this duet as soon as possible.
I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of enemies-to-lovers, angst, and spice making Cruel Rule the perfect must-read. The perfect blend of romance and suspense that will leave you counting down the days till you can get your hands on the next book.
September 24, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Oh my goodness. Okay this author and me have a live-hate relationship. I mean *scoffs* come on!?
It is a slow burn sexual relationship but a love at first sight scenario.
It contains a total bad*ss Female Main Character (FMC—Jade) with a heart breaking backstory, but how she gets through it all whilst remaining physically intact is insane to me… mentally, barely. The Male Main Character (MMC—Leo) is a spoilt, rich boy who is seen for the first time by a girl who hides behind several walls of secrets but sees him, really sees him, nevertheless.
I absolutely love the friends of Jade and Leo: Shani, Tristan and Xavier. I always have (and always will) love individual personalities, not at all lacking in depth. They aren’t fake and are just… perfect.
Speaking of favourite characters, I think the aunt is my spirit animal. Haha! No but really, this author did an amazing job.
The only thing I would say is probably the pacing or amount of pages. I understand that authors sometimes have to cut a lot of their story, or have a page/word limit and I totally understand, but I feel as though if Leo and Jade’s times together was put in a bit more depth it would be perfect but it is still amazing.
Honestly, I adore how powerful and inspiring Jade is; particularly towards the end of the book (which ends on a cliff hanger by the way and I am totally reading the next book in the series!!!)
Read it!
Xoxo…
Oh my goodness. Okay this author and me have a live-hate relationship. I mean *scoffs* come on!?
It is a slow burn sexual relationship but a love at first sight scenario.
It contains a total bad*ss Female Main Character (FMC—Jade) with a heart breaking backstory, but how she gets through it all whilst remaining physically intact is insane to me… mentally, barely. The Male Main Character (MMC—Leo) is a spoilt, rich boy who is seen for the first time by a girl who hides behind several walls of secrets but sees him, really sees him, nevertheless.
I absolutely love the friends of Jade and Leo: Shani, Tristan and Xavier. I always have (and always will) love individual personalities, not at all lacking in depth. They aren’t fake and are just… perfect.
Speaking of favourite characters, I think the aunt is my spirit animal. Haha! No but really, this author did an amazing job.
The only thing I would say is probably the pacing or amount of pages. I understand that authors sometimes have to cut a lot of their story, or have a page/word limit and I totally understand, but I feel as though if Leo and Jade’s times together was put in a bit more depth it would be perfect but it is still amazing.
Honestly, I adore how powerful and inspiring Jade is; particularly towards the end of the book (which ends on a cliff hanger by the way and I am totally reading the next book in the series!!!)
Read it!
Xoxo…
September 19, 2025
Welcome to Cruel Rule by J.T. Hardt—aka the dark academia thirst trap we all needed and none of us were emotionally stable enough to survive.
Picture this: a girl named Jade gets deep-faked into OnlyFans infamy by her high school bullies. Cut to: her dramatic relocation to a foggy Rhode Island prep school where the polo ponies are bougie, and the boys are straight-up certified menaces. Enter Leo Holt. He’s hot, he’s rich, and his red flags are color-coordinated with his varsity jacket. This man kisses her ONCE at a bonfire and it launches a school-wide gossip apocalypse. And what does Jade do? Survive, glow up, and drop one-liners like a savage.
You’ll scream. You’ll roll your eyes. You’ll fall for Leo even though he’s the exact type your therapist warned you about. And then you’ll reread that beach volleyball scene three times “for plot.”
This book? Petty, messy, addictive. Basically, if Gossip Girl and Cruel Intentions had a baby and raised it on Instagram drama and trauma healing playlists.
Triggers & Ratings
Trigger Warnings:
• Cyberbullying / Catfishing
• Deepfake / sexual image manipulation
• Emotional manipulation
• Power imbalance
• Social exclusion / cancel culture
• Classism & elitism
Spice Level: 🍒🍒 (Slow burn with heated tension)
Emotional Damage: 🩹🩹🩹🩹
Rating: ★★★★½ — because Leo is both the problem and the prize.
Picture this: a girl named Jade gets deep-faked into OnlyFans infamy by her high school bullies. Cut to: her dramatic relocation to a foggy Rhode Island prep school where the polo ponies are bougie, and the boys are straight-up certified menaces. Enter Leo Holt. He’s hot, he’s rich, and his red flags are color-coordinated with his varsity jacket. This man kisses her ONCE at a bonfire and it launches a school-wide gossip apocalypse. And what does Jade do? Survive, glow up, and drop one-liners like a savage.
You’ll scream. You’ll roll your eyes. You’ll fall for Leo even though he’s the exact type your therapist warned you about. And then you’ll reread that beach volleyball scene three times “for plot.”
This book? Petty, messy, addictive. Basically, if Gossip Girl and Cruel Intentions had a baby and raised it on Instagram drama and trauma healing playlists.
Triggers & Ratings
Trigger Warnings:
• Cyberbullying / Catfishing
• Deepfake / sexual image manipulation
• Emotional manipulation
• Power imbalance
• Social exclusion / cancel culture
• Classism & elitism
Spice Level: 🍒🍒 (Slow burn with heated tension)
Emotional Damage: 🩹🩹🩹🩹
Rating: ★★★★½ — because Leo is both the problem and the prize.
September 13, 2025
A Thrilling Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
CRUEL RULE by J.T. Hardt is an electrifying start to the Royal Oaks Prep series. The story follows Jade, the new girl at an elite prep school, who becomes the target of Leo Holt, the school's popular and ruthless basketball captain, after a stolen kiss ignites a dangerous game of power and attraction. The chemistry between Jade and Leo is palpable, filled with tension and longing that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
The book masterfully blends high school drama with intense romance, delivering a rollercoaster of emotions. Jade's resilience and Leo's complex character add depth to the narrative, making it more than just a typical bully romance. The cliffhanger ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
If you're a fan of enemies-to-lovers tales with a touch of angst and a lot of heat, CRUEL RULE is a must-read. It's a captivating blend of romance and suspense that will have you counting down the days until the next book.
CRUEL RULE by J.T. Hardt is an electrifying start to the Royal Oaks Prep series. The story follows Jade, the new girl at an elite prep school, who becomes the target of Leo Holt, the school's popular and ruthless basketball captain, after a stolen kiss ignites a dangerous game of power and attraction. The chemistry between Jade and Leo is palpable, filled with tension and longing that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
The book masterfully blends high school drama with intense romance, delivering a rollercoaster of emotions. Jade's resilience and Leo's complex character add depth to the narrative, making it more than just a typical bully romance. The cliffhanger ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
If you're a fan of enemies-to-lovers tales with a touch of angst and a lot of heat, CRUEL RULE is a must-read. It's a captivating blend of romance and suspense that will have you counting down the days until the next book.
September 30, 2025
A little sad that it’s a series. I read the comments prior to reading this and no one hinted at waiting for the next book 🤦🏾♀️. This book was pretty good. A lot of unnecessary bullying by adults and children that should have been illegal hands down. The author did pull you into the main characters’ world and almost had you feeling the angst along with the characters. The setting is familiar to the bully romance story arc but almost to an extreme with no real reason for it. I think that’s where the disconnect was…the extreme unprovoked viciousness. The next in the series is not available until December but I think I’ll read it. The spice 🌶️ is definitely a simmer. More YA romance levels but still cute. The readers focus is pulled more towards waiting for that other tragic shoe drop since we are made aware early in the story.
November 28, 2025
Cruel Rule by J.T. Hardt
This story is amazing!!! It’s going into my top 5 books of all time. The characters are so well-written — some you can’t help but hate, while others you absolutely love. My eyes are still swollen from crying, and I stayed up until 4 AM because I had to finish it. I’m already counting down the days until book two releases. I was completely taken in by this story.
It begins with Jade, who has already been through so much at her previous school. She moves in with her aunt to escape the drama and finish her senior year, hoping for a fresh start — but things don’t go as planned.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This story is amazing!!! It’s going into my top 5 books of all time. The characters are so well-written — some you can’t help but hate, while others you absolutely love. My eyes are still swollen from crying, and I stayed up until 4 AM because I had to finish it. I’m already counting down the days until book two releases. I was completely taken in by this story.
It begins with Jade, who has already been through so much at her previous school. She moves in with her aunt to escape the drama and finish her senior year, hoping for a fresh start — but things don’t go as planned.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 30, 2025
3.75 🌟
I flew through this book and it definitely kept my attention. It wasn’t a traditional bully romance; the main mmc fell for the fmc pretty quickly. I will admit, that threw me off at first, but I appreciated where the plot ended up going and it made me interested to pick up the next book
I also really respected the fmc. She was really strong and I look forward to see how she responds in the next book
I received an advanced copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I flew through this book and it definitely kept my attention. It wasn’t a traditional bully romance; the main mmc fell for the fmc pretty quickly. I will admit, that threw me off at first, but I appreciated where the plot ended up going and it made me interested to pick up the next book
I also really respected the fmc. She was really strong and I look forward to see how she responds in the next book
I received an advanced copy of this book for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily
October 9, 2025
If I could have rated it a 4.5 ⭐️ I would as I absolutely loved this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The MFC is so strong throughout the challenges she has gone through and that she goes through in the book. The MMC I feel so sorry for, for reasons I won’t mention as I don’t want to give any spoilers.
If you love enemies to lovers, angst and a little spice, this is the book for you.
Be warned though, it’s a 2 part series and the ending will leave you hungry for the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The MFC is so strong throughout the challenges she has gone through and that she goes through in the book. The MMC I feel so sorry for, for reasons I won’t mention as I don’t want to give any spoilers.
If you love enemies to lovers, angst and a little spice, this is the book for you.
Be warned though, it’s a 2 part series and the ending will leave you hungry for the next book.
October 11, 2025
A high school bully romance set in the elite world of Royal Oaks Prep. The setup had so much potential, all the prep school drama I live for. But… when it came to the spice?
Let’s just say it fizzled faster than I wanted. Everything happens behind closed doors, which honestly felt like a crime given the build-up 😩
Would I have loved it more if it had some steam? Absolutely. Yes, I’m shallow. No, I’m not sorry 🙂↕️
Perfect if you’re into angsty high school drama and alpha-meets-broken-girl vibes, but maybe not the one if you’re craving open-door spice 🙌
Let’s just say it fizzled faster than I wanted. Everything happens behind closed doors, which honestly felt like a crime given the build-up 😩
Would I have loved it more if it had some steam? Absolutely. Yes, I’m shallow. No, I’m not sorry 🙂↕️
Perfect if you’re into angsty high school drama and alpha-meets-broken-girl vibes, but maybe not the one if you’re craving open-door spice 🙌
September 6, 2025
I loved this book! It takes the reader on an enemies to lovers angst filled roller coaster ride! The heat and the yearning in this book were absolutely perfect! After i finished this book I immediately went looking for book 2! unfortunately it doesn’t come out till December but it will definitely be on my TBR!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2025
I really enjoyed this fully detailed read. I was freaking hooked. Poor Jade all te crap she runaway from only to endure it again. The had really good chem and it was sweet while it lasted. This gave me Pretty in Pink vibes I LOVED IT!!! Can’t wait to read to the continuation please don’t make me wait long !!!!! I hope we get to have more in the series like Tristan,Xavier and Shani’s books.😍
Read
September 27, 2025Thank you to booksirens & the author for this arc !
When I hear a bully romance I have high expectations , sad to say this book didn’t fill them 🥹 had to dnf at 50% cause it just can’t keep my attention .. they still only kissed & there isn’t a lot of bullying going on .. so I’m sorry this just isn’t the book for me
When I hear a bully romance I have high expectations , sad to say this book didn’t fill them 🥹 had to dnf at 50% cause it just can’t keep my attention .. they still only kissed & there isn’t a lot of bullying going on .. so I’m sorry this just isn’t the book for me
November 7, 2025
I like the book so much it was so good. I loved the main couple in this book so much. I will definitely be reading this again before the next book comes out. I received an advance review copy for fee and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 21, 2025
I cannot wait for the next book. Cruel Rule kept me enthralled from the first chapter. I didn't want it to end. The love, the betrayal, the choices made….. so good.
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