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Ruthless Heart: The spicy, touch her and die, enemies-to-lovers, college romance
🖤 Enemies-to-lovers
🖤 Sports romance
🖤 Bully romance
🖤 Morally grey MMC
I wake up naked. Hungover. And in the wrong bed.
Jett Santo’s bed.
Cardinal Saint’s star quarterback.
Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous.
He doesn’t even remember my name.
I should be grateful. I should disappear.
Pretend it never happened.
But I can’t.
Because my body already belongs to him.
And he knows it.
Now his future is on the line — and I’m no longer a mistake.
I’m his alibi.
His weakness.
His obsession.
Jett Santo doesn’t lose.
But I’m hiding a secret that could destroy us both.
Because that night wasn’t the ending.
It was the beginning.
And when the truth comes out, neither of us will walk away unscathed.
A scorching football romance full of obsession, secrets and a hero who breaks all the rules — perfect for fans of Meagan Brandy, Chloe Walsh, Parker S. Huntington, Rosa Lucas, L.J Shen, Rebecca Jenshak, Nikki Lawson or Becka Mack
Recommended for 18+.
🖤 Sports romance
🖤 Bully romance
🖤 Morally grey MMC
I wake up naked. Hungover. And in the wrong bed.
Jett Santo’s bed.
Cardinal Saint’s star quarterback.
Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous.
He doesn’t even remember my name.
I should be grateful. I should disappear.
Pretend it never happened.
But I can’t.
Because my body already belongs to him.
And he knows it.
Now his future is on the line — and I’m no longer a mistake.
I’m his alibi.
His weakness.
His obsession.
Jett Santo doesn’t lose.
But I’m hiding a secret that could destroy us both.
Because that night wasn’t the ending.
It was the beginning.
And when the truth comes out, neither of us will walk away unscathed.
A scorching football romance full of obsession, secrets and a hero who breaks all the rules — perfect for fans of Meagan Brandy, Chloe Walsh, Parker S. Huntington, Rosa Lucas, L.J Shen, Rebecca Jenshak, Nikki Lawson or Becka Mack
Recommended for 18+.
- GenresSports
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2026
49 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Eve L. Mitchell
56 books766 followersEve L. Mitchell is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes contemporary romance and urban fantasy.
Being an avid reader from a young age, Eve still considers herself to be a reader first. She believes there is nothing better than getting that new book either on your e-reader or in your hands, and the fact she may bring that excitement to a fellow reader, fills her with wonder. She writes under a pen name because otherwise her Secret Agent status will be revoked.
Eve lives in the North East of Scotland, with her three coffee machines and her significant other, Mr. M. She enjoys NFL Football, music and having long conversations with the voices in her head, which sometimes turn into the stories she writes.
Being an avid reader from a young age, Eve still considers herself to be a reader first. She believes there is nothing better than getting that new book either on your e-reader or in your hands, and the fact she may bring that excitement to a fellow reader, fills her with wonder. She writes under a pen name because otherwise her Secret Agent status will be revoked.
Eve lives in the North East of Scotland, with her three coffee machines and her significant other, Mr. M. She enjoys NFL Football, music and having long conversations with the voices in her head, which sometimes turn into the stories she writes.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 11, 2026
Thank you to the publisher Joffe Books for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this book there was a lot of tension and sexual tension between Ava and Jett, I rather enjoyed that even if I did want to shake some sense into Jett or give him a full on smack for the way he was treating Ava. I felt bad for Ava when she wakes up in Jett’s bedroom and realises what happened, particularly as he behaved like a massive douche to her when she wakes up. He was a complete jerk to her, it was like being back at school when the boys used to be mean to a girl because he secretly likes her and doesn’t know how to express it. I liked Ava she was down to earth, smart, loved football and was a massive nerd for football stats, her best friend Mia was an excellent partner in crime as she always has Ava’s back. Out of the Santo’s trio I liked Ash the most as he does feel guilty for the way they are treating Ava and realises that there might be more to story than meets the eye. Because I’m slightly evil I really enjoyed the part when Jett comes to realise the truth behind the night he and Ava spent together, I glad he felt bad but I think he deserved to suffer a lot more before Ava forgave him. I would have liked him to have suffered a bit more before his redemption arc was completed but other than I really enjoyed this book so much so that I read it in one sitting. I thought the aftermath of what happened was dealt with really sensitively. I think this is probably the best dark romance I have read recently.
I enjoyed this book there was a lot of tension and sexual tension between Ava and Jett, I rather enjoyed that even if I did want to shake some sense into Jett or give him a full on smack for the way he was treating Ava. I felt bad for Ava when she wakes up in Jett’s bedroom and realises what happened, particularly as he behaved like a massive douche to her when she wakes up. He was a complete jerk to her, it was like being back at school when the boys used to be mean to a girl because he secretly likes her and doesn’t know how to express it. I liked Ava she was down to earth, smart, loved football and was a massive nerd for football stats, her best friend Mia was an excellent partner in crime as she always has Ava’s back. Out of the Santo’s trio I liked Ash the most as he does feel guilty for the way they are treating Ava and realises that there might be more to story than meets the eye. Because I’m slightly evil I really enjoyed the part when Jett comes to realise the truth behind the night he and Ava spent together, I glad he felt bad but I think he deserved to suffer a lot more before Ava forgave him. I would have liked him to have suffered a bit more before his redemption arc was completed but other than I really enjoyed this book so much so that I read it in one sitting. I thought the aftermath of what happened was dealt with really sensitively. I think this is probably the best dark romance I have read recently.
January 23, 2026
Ruthless Heart by Eve L. Mitchell is the brilliant and intoxicating beginning of the Ruthless Devils series.
The main characters, Ava and Jett are a dynamic duo and a couple who I found addicted to know how their story would pan out.
Each character had their own story to tell, and having this as a dual POV from both Ava and Jett’s perspectives, really helped to cement the storyline and allowed for the reader to understand the deep underlying thoughts and feelings of both characters, as well as the reasons for their actions.
Whilst there’s a level of hatred between these two, there’s also an intensity to their attraction towards one and another, which captures the enemies to lovers genre perfectly.
This is enhanced by the flashbacks which are so well entwined into the storyline that it’s a vivid experience for the reader, as we are drawn into what has happened and the emotions the character is feeling.
Ava has a few clever references of fairy tale stories rolled into everyday situations. But this story is anything but a fairy tale and I’m sure at times Ava would rather be living in one, rather than playing a real life cat and mouse game or maybe Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, is more appropriate.
With witty remarks and sassy comebacks, you’ll find yourself giggle at scenes. Whilst for others you’ll be deeply drawn into the emotional journey that both Ava and Jett go on - both collectively and alone. At no time in Ruthless Heart, will you be starved for a gripping plot and addictive characters.
Oh and I almost forgot to mention the attention to detail in this story with the football references. I’ve never read a sports romance book that completely nails the sports analogies, whilst maintaining the true romance element of the book. I think this is a massive win and skill that Eve L. Mitchell has been able to capture this so perfectly, especially weaving it into Ava’s character by showing how much she loves football and the ease of understanding Jett’s life a QB for the Devils.
This enemies to lovers, college sports romance is a slow burn which heats up, along with light bullying aspects and mystery - which I can’t wait to see what the bigger picture is throughout the series.
Bonus chapter: I know Quinn is a side character in Ruthless Heart, but right from the first chapter Quinn appeared in, I need to know more of her story. I’m ecstatic that the second book will be Quinn’s!!
I feel like Ruthless Heart was just the warm up, as the Handoff to the Running Back will change the game. Overall I can’t wait to read more about the Santo’s guys and the women who they fall for, in the following Ruthless Devils books.
The main characters, Ava and Jett are a dynamic duo and a couple who I found addicted to know how their story would pan out.
Each character had their own story to tell, and having this as a dual POV from both Ava and Jett’s perspectives, really helped to cement the storyline and allowed for the reader to understand the deep underlying thoughts and feelings of both characters, as well as the reasons for their actions.
Whilst there’s a level of hatred between these two, there’s also an intensity to their attraction towards one and another, which captures the enemies to lovers genre perfectly.
This is enhanced by the flashbacks which are so well entwined into the storyline that it’s a vivid experience for the reader, as we are drawn into what has happened and the emotions the character is feeling.
Ava has a few clever references of fairy tale stories rolled into everyday situations. But this story is anything but a fairy tale and I’m sure at times Ava would rather be living in one, rather than playing a real life cat and mouse game or maybe Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf, is more appropriate.
With witty remarks and sassy comebacks, you’ll find yourself giggle at scenes. Whilst for others you’ll be deeply drawn into the emotional journey that both Ava and Jett go on - both collectively and alone. At no time in Ruthless Heart, will you be starved for a gripping plot and addictive characters.
Oh and I almost forgot to mention the attention to detail in this story with the football references. I’ve never read a sports romance book that completely nails the sports analogies, whilst maintaining the true romance element of the book. I think this is a massive win and skill that Eve L. Mitchell has been able to capture this so perfectly, especially weaving it into Ava’s character by showing how much she loves football and the ease of understanding Jett’s life a QB for the Devils.
This enemies to lovers, college sports romance is a slow burn which heats up, along with light bullying aspects and mystery - which I can’t wait to see what the bigger picture is throughout the series.
Bonus chapter: I know Quinn is a side character in Ruthless Heart, but right from the first chapter Quinn appeared in, I need to know more of her story. I’m ecstatic that the second book will be Quinn’s!!
I feel like Ruthless Heart was just the warm up, as the Handoff to the Running Back will change the game. Overall I can’t wait to read more about the Santo’s guys and the women who they fall for, in the following Ruthless Devils books.
February 1, 2026
This book was
exactly
what I needed as a palate cleanser after fantasy brain. Short, fast-paced, messy, and FUN. Like the kind of book you inhale in one sitting and then immediately start side-eyeing the rest of the series because yes, I will be continuing 😌
We open right in the chaos. Ava wakes up naked, hungover, and very much in the wrong bed and the secondhand embarrassment hit immediately. That horrible, sinking feeling of realising you are the problem in someone else’s morning. You feel her humiliation in your bones, especially when the man in question does not even remember her name. Brutal.
Jett Santo is exactly what he says on the tin. Star quarterback. Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous. He is morally grey in that delicious, infuriating way where you want to shake him and kiss him in equal measure. He comes in hot with assumptions, control, and a whole lot of judgement, especially once he convinces himself Ava spiked his drink. Normally, I despise miscommunication as a trope, but here it actually worked. It fuels the tension, the bullying, and the obsession without feeling lazy, and when Jett realises he was wrong… the shift is chef’s kiss.
Ava, though? I adored her. She is unassuming and innocent on the surface, but she is no doormat. She stands up to Jett and the Devils at every opportunity, and her internal monologue is genuinely funny:
Ava clocking Ash’s energy immediately made me love her even more.
But what really sold this for me was the way obsession creeps in. Ava goes from mistake to alibi to weakness, and Jett does not even pretend he is in control anymore. Their dynamic around possession is subtle but intense, especially in moments like this:
Did I predict the twist? Yes. Did I mind? Not at all. Sometimes it is about the journey, not the shock factor, and I was having too much fun to care. The pacing never drags, the side characters are genuinely compelling, and the campus atmosphere feels alive, especially with lines like:
Four stars, zero regrets, and I will absolutely be picking up the next book because if Quinn and Gray are next… I am ready 😈📖
Thank you so much to Eve L. Mitchell and Choc Lit for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
We open right in the chaos. Ava wakes up naked, hungover, and very much in the wrong bed and the secondhand embarrassment hit immediately. That horrible, sinking feeling of realising you are the problem in someone else’s morning. You feel her humiliation in your bones, especially when the man in question does not even remember her name. Brutal.
Jett Santo is exactly what he says on the tin. Star quarterback. Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous. He is morally grey in that delicious, infuriating way where you want to shake him and kiss him in equal measure. He comes in hot with assumptions, control, and a whole lot of judgement, especially once he convinces himself Ava spiked his drink. Normally, I despise miscommunication as a trope, but here it actually worked. It fuels the tension, the bullying, and the obsession without feeling lazy, and when Jett realises he was wrong… the shift is chef’s kiss.
Ava, though? I adored her. She is unassuming and innocent on the surface, but she is no doormat. She stands up to Jett and the Devils at every opportunity, and her internal monologue is genuinely funny:
“Mia always went on about the chemistry. I think my PH level was neutral, as I had never encountered a chemical reaction yet.”Her banter with the Saints boys is elite, especially with Gray, who is very clearly morally black and enjoying every second of it.
“Yo, chick?”The Devils as a trio are such a good dynamic. Jett is morally grey, Gray is chaos incarnate, and Ash… Ash is giving cinnamon roll with an edge and I am already obsessed. His introduction in class was iconic.
“Chick? Do I look like poultry?”
i>“I told the administration to stop sending me jocks.”Professor Leitch saying that about Ash immediately set the tone, but then Ash follows it up with quiet confidence that had me folding.
“Anyway, I opted for this class, I’m not looking for easy credit. I was told you were good, was I misinformed?”Please. Calm down.
Ava clocking Ash’s energy immediately made me love her even more.
"I think Ash Santo just became my hero."The tension between Ava and Jett is sharp, sarcastic, and constantly crackling. Their dialogue is full of bite, especially when Jett is being at his absolute worst.
“So now you want to give me a blow job.”Men. Honestly.
“What is wrong with you?”
“You.”
But what really sold this for me was the way obsession creeps in. Ava goes from mistake to alibi to weakness, and Jett does not even pretend he is in control anymore. Their dynamic around possession is subtle but intense, especially in moments like this:
“You want me to wear your shirt?”That exchange says everything about how their relationship is shifting.
“It’s just a shirt.”
“Is it?”
"No. You okay with it?"
Did I predict the twist? Yes. Did I mind? Not at all. Sometimes it is about the journey, not the shock factor, and I was having too much fun to care. The pacing never drags, the side characters are genuinely compelling, and the campus atmosphere feels alive, especially with lines like:
“…the word on campus was that the Devils were hunting because Satan himself was angry.”Overall, Ruthless Heart was a scorching, addictive sports romance with great banter, morally questionable men, and a heroine who refuses to be steamrolled. It is not reinventing the genre, but it does what it sets out to do really well, and I had a blast reading it.
Four stars, zero regrets, and I will absolutely be picking up the next book because if Quinn and Gray are next… I am ready 😈📖
Thank you so much to Eve L. Mitchell and Choc Lit for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
❤️ Blurb -
Enemies-to-lovers
🖤 Sports romance
🖤 Bully romance
🖤 Morally grey MMC
I wake up naked. Hungover. And in the wrong bed. Jett Santo’s bed.
Cardinal Saint’s star quarterback.
Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous.
He doesn’t even remember my name.
I should be grateful. I should disappear.
Pretend it never happened.
But I can’t.
Because my body already belongs to him.
And he knows it.
Now his future is on the line — and I’m no longer a mistake.
I’m his alibi.
His weakness.
His obsession.
Jett Santo doesn’t lose.
But I’m hiding a secret that could destroy us both.
Because that night wasn’t the ending.
It was the start.
And when the fallout comes, neither of us will escape.
This angsty, dark, college, sports romance with a morally grey MMC is perfect for fans of Meagan Brandy, Chloe Walsh, Parker S. Huntington, Rosa Lucas, L.J Shen, Rebecca Jenshak, Nikki Lawson or Becka Mack
💜 Review -
Dark Romance novel fans will love this. This was such a brilliant and well written novel. From the very first page I was hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I'm not normally a fan of dark romance novels but this one was well written and any sensitive subjects were written with care. I loved the story, which I found easy to follow and had good pacing. Plus there was a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Choclit and the author Eve. L Mitchell for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Enemies-to-lovers
🖤 Sports romance
🖤 Bully romance
🖤 Morally grey MMC
I wake up naked. Hungover. And in the wrong bed. Jett Santo’s bed.
Cardinal Saint’s star quarterback.
Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous.
He doesn’t even remember my name.
I should be grateful. I should disappear.
Pretend it never happened.
But I can’t.
Because my body already belongs to him.
And he knows it.
Now his future is on the line — and I’m no longer a mistake.
I’m his alibi.
His weakness.
His obsession.
Jett Santo doesn’t lose.
But I’m hiding a secret that could destroy us both.
Because that night wasn’t the ending.
It was the start.
And when the fallout comes, neither of us will escape.
This angsty, dark, college, sports romance with a morally grey MMC is perfect for fans of Meagan Brandy, Chloe Walsh, Parker S. Huntington, Rosa Lucas, L.J Shen, Rebecca Jenshak, Nikki Lawson or Becka Mack
💜 Review -
Dark Romance novel fans will love this. This was such a brilliant and well written novel. From the very first page I was hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I'm not normally a fan of dark romance novels but this one was well written and any sensitive subjects were written with care. I loved the story, which I found easy to follow and had good pacing. Plus there was a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Choclit and the author Eve. L Mitchell for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2026
Here is my review for Ruthless Heart by Eve L Mitchell
This sports/bully/college dark romance was me stepping outside my normal genres and comfort zone as the bullying was of a young woman but she kicked their arse really well in one scene but it could have turned out worse. I’m not into American Football and the NFL but Ava, the mfc absolutely loves the game and knows all the stats especially for the team for her hometown of Knoxville. One morning, after a party, Ava woke up totally naked, with a humongous hangover, in the bed of someone she doesn’t like. It was Jett Santo’s bed! Cardinal Saints’ star quarterback, their number 8 player and captain. Unfortunately, Jett and his brother don’t know who she is apart from blonde hair and they think she is behind Jett being laid off for two weeks from the team. They say he hurt his ankle but really the hunt has begun and it’s not fair play! The story has been well thought out by the author to be a really great enemy to lovers' dark romance with Jett being a bit of a stud as well. Ava is a great mfc but she is up against the might of the devils. Jett is a mean mmc and comes as a package with a twin brother and a cousin. Some of the story was built up slowly and some seemed rushed towards the end which spoiled it a little bit. I was hooked right from the start of the book on page one, until the last page! I managed to read this book in one sitting but it took me quite a while. I really liked the descriptions of the characters used in the story as it helped to picture them as I read. I really enjoyed reading this story and I’m looking forward to the next book when it comes out. This is a new author to me who I haven’t read before but I will look to read her books in the future.
Blurb :
🖤 Enemies-to-lovers
🖤 Sports romance
🖤 Morally grey MMC
🖤 Bully romance
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Probably the best dark romance I have read.’
I wake up naked. Hungover. And in the wrong bed.
Jett Santo’s bed.
Cardinal Saints’ star quarterback.
Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous.
He doesn’t even remember my name.
I should be grateful. Pretend it never happened.
But I can’t.
Because my body already belongs to him.
And he knows it.
Now his future is on the line — and I’m no longer a mistake.
I’m his alibi.
His weakness.
His obsession.
Jett Santo doesn’t lose.
But I’m hiding a secret that could destroy us both.
Because that night wasn’t the ending.
It was the beginning.
And when the truth comes out, neither of us will walk away unscathed.
A scorching football romance full of obsession, secrets and a hero who breaks all the rules — perfect for fans of Meagan Brandy, Chloe Walsh, Parker S. Huntington, Rosa Lucas, L.J Shen, Rebecca Jenshak, Nikki Lawson or Becka Mack.
This sports/bully/college dark romance was me stepping outside my normal genres and comfort zone as the bullying was of a young woman but she kicked their arse really well in one scene but it could have turned out worse. I’m not into American Football and the NFL but Ava, the mfc absolutely loves the game and knows all the stats especially for the team for her hometown of Knoxville. One morning, after a party, Ava woke up totally naked, with a humongous hangover, in the bed of someone she doesn’t like. It was Jett Santo’s bed! Cardinal Saints’ star quarterback, their number 8 player and captain. Unfortunately, Jett and his brother don’t know who she is apart from blonde hair and they think she is behind Jett being laid off for two weeks from the team. They say he hurt his ankle but really the hunt has begun and it’s not fair play! The story has been well thought out by the author to be a really great enemy to lovers' dark romance with Jett being a bit of a stud as well. Ava is a great mfc but she is up against the might of the devils. Jett is a mean mmc and comes as a package with a twin brother and a cousin. Some of the story was built up slowly and some seemed rushed towards the end which spoiled it a little bit. I was hooked right from the start of the book on page one, until the last page! I managed to read this book in one sitting but it took me quite a while. I really liked the descriptions of the characters used in the story as it helped to picture them as I read. I really enjoyed reading this story and I’m looking forward to the next book when it comes out. This is a new author to me who I haven’t read before but I will look to read her books in the future.
Blurb :
🖤 Enemies-to-lovers
🖤 Sports romance
🖤 Morally grey MMC
🖤 Bully romance
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Probably the best dark romance I have read.’
I wake up naked. Hungover. And in the wrong bed.
Jett Santo’s bed.
Cardinal Saints’ star quarterback.
Arrogant. Untouchable. Dangerous.
He doesn’t even remember my name.
I should be grateful. Pretend it never happened.
But I can’t.
Because my body already belongs to him.
And he knows it.
Now his future is on the line — and I’m no longer a mistake.
I’m his alibi.
His weakness.
His obsession.
Jett Santo doesn’t lose.
But I’m hiding a secret that could destroy us both.
Because that night wasn’t the ending.
It was the beginning.
And when the truth comes out, neither of us will walk away unscathed.
A scorching football romance full of obsession, secrets and a hero who breaks all the rules — perfect for fans of Meagan Brandy, Chloe Walsh, Parker S. Huntington, Rosa Lucas, L.J Shen, Rebecca Jenshak, Nikki Lawson or Becka Mack.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book drops you straight into chaos—in the best possible way. From the very first page, you’re thrown into a situation that feels equal parts reckless, humiliating, and impossible to ignore. Waking up in the bed of the most untouchable guy on campus should be a one-night disaster you bury forever. Instead, it becomes the start of something dangerously consuming.
Jett Santo is not your soft, cinnamon-roll quarterback. He’s arrogant, emotionally guarded, and fully aware of the power he holds—on the field and off. What makes him compelling isn’t just the confidence, but the way his control slowly fractures when the heroine refuses to be just another name he forgets. Their dynamic is built on tension, secrets, and a constant push-and-pull between desire and self-preservation.
The romance thrives on obsession. Not in a dreamy, idealized way—but in a messy, realistic way where both characters are making bad decisions while knowing better. The stakes feel real, especially as the “alibi” aspect comes into play, turning a personal relationship into something that could ruin futures, reputations, and careers.
What I loved most is how emotionally charged everything feels. This isn’t just spicy for the sake of spice—it’s about power, vulnerability, and the fear of being truly seen by someone who could destroy you. It’s angsty, addictive, and the kind of book that keeps you turning pages at 1 a.m. because you need to know how far it’s going to go.
If you love morally grey heroes, emotionally messy heroines, and sports romance that leans darker and more intense, this one hits hard.
Thanks to Choc Lit for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jett Santo is not your soft, cinnamon-roll quarterback. He’s arrogant, emotionally guarded, and fully aware of the power he holds—on the field and off. What makes him compelling isn’t just the confidence, but the way his control slowly fractures when the heroine refuses to be just another name he forgets. Their dynamic is built on tension, secrets, and a constant push-and-pull between desire and self-preservation.
The romance thrives on obsession. Not in a dreamy, idealized way—but in a messy, realistic way where both characters are making bad decisions while knowing better. The stakes feel real, especially as the “alibi” aspect comes into play, turning a personal relationship into something that could ruin futures, reputations, and careers.
What I loved most is how emotionally charged everything feels. This isn’t just spicy for the sake of spice—it’s about power, vulnerability, and the fear of being truly seen by someone who could destroy you. It’s angsty, addictive, and the kind of book that keeps you turning pages at 1 a.m. because you need to know how far it’s going to go.
If you love morally grey heroes, emotionally messy heroines, and sports romance that leans darker and more intense, this one hits hard.
Thanks to Choc Lit for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2026
My Thoughts: dark romance is quickly becoming one of my favourite genres and this book cemented for me why.
Jett and Ava find themselves in a compromising position when they wake up the morning after a party in bed together, with no memory of why/how it happened! When Jett then fails a drugs test and gets temporarily suspended from his football team he sees red, he doesn’t do drugs, never has done and is utterly convinced that the girl he found in his bed is the cause.. but with no idea who she is he is in deep trouble.
Ava suddenly finds herself getting trouble from the Santo’s, she knows she should keep her head down, stay out of their way but there’s just something that keeps pulling them together, they fight, they argue but yet they always find themselves in bed together, what she doesn’t know is that Jett is using her, or at least he thinks he is!
When I first started reading this I was worried that the college age characters would be too young for me, as a 35 year old woman I’m pretty sure I am not the target audience! – but once I looked past that I got so caught up in the story, I love an MMC who isn’t afraid to put himself out there in front of his friends, and although it took him a while Jett was possessive and protective 🥵 but Ava wasn’t afraid to give as good as she got!
Jett and Ava find themselves in a compromising position when they wake up the morning after a party in bed together, with no memory of why/how it happened! When Jett then fails a drugs test and gets temporarily suspended from his football team he sees red, he doesn’t do drugs, never has done and is utterly convinced that the girl he found in his bed is the cause.. but with no idea who she is he is in deep trouble.
Ava suddenly finds herself getting trouble from the Santo’s, she knows she should keep her head down, stay out of their way but there’s just something that keeps pulling them together, they fight, they argue but yet they always find themselves in bed together, what she doesn’t know is that Jett is using her, or at least he thinks he is!
When I first started reading this I was worried that the college age characters would be too young for me, as a 35 year old woman I’m pretty sure I am not the target audience! – but once I looked past that I got so caught up in the story, I love an MMC who isn’t afraid to put himself out there in front of his friends, and although it took him a while Jett was possessive and protective 🥵 but Ava wasn’t afraid to give as good as she got!
February 2, 2026
🖤 Ava & Jett
I honestly could not put the flipping book down!!! It was past 4 a.m. when I stopped reading, and the only reason I stopped then was because I had work a few hours later. #workruinseverything!
I was instantly taken in by both the MCs and the potential plot during "The Morning After". Ava is our fiesty but funny FMC, and Jett is the typical hotter-than-hell star QB with all the usual traits we love in our jacka$$ book boyfriends, and when the pair collide...mayhem!
Unfortunately, I did feel like the author missed a trick with Ava's "talent" and I do feel like the couple's story ended too quickly 😢. But I have spotted that Book 2 is in the works, so I'm hopeful we'll see some more of them throughout or maybe a cheeky bonus epilogue...?🤞🏻
I'd say this one is on the lighter side of dark romance and the bully aspect remained somewhat realistic, I don't know if that makes it harder to digest or worse...but check TWs just in case.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶.5
"I was close to believing aliens had abducted us both and put us in a sticky situation. And sticky I had been."
I honestly could not put the flipping book down!!! It was past 4 a.m. when I stopped reading, and the only reason I stopped then was because I had work a few hours later. #workruinseverything!
I was instantly taken in by both the MCs and the potential plot during "The Morning After". Ava is our fiesty but funny FMC, and Jett is the typical hotter-than-hell star QB with all the usual traits we love in our jacka$$ book boyfriends, and when the pair collide...mayhem!
Unfortunately, I did feel like the author missed a trick with Ava's "talent" and I do feel like the couple's story ended too quickly 😢. But I have spotted that Book 2 is in the works, so I'm hopeful we'll see some more of them throughout or maybe a cheeky bonus epilogue...?🤞🏻
I'd say this one is on the lighter side of dark romance and the bully aspect remained somewhat realistic, I don't know if that makes it harder to digest or worse...but check TWs just in case.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶.5
"I was close to believing aliens had abducted us both and put us in a sticky situation. And sticky I had been."
February 6, 2026
Ruthless Heart by Eve L. Mitchell is a dark, spicy, college romance by the author. Our two MC's are Ava and Jett who are in different worlds in the Cardinal Saints college. Jett is Mr. Football and Ava is not. The story opens where it's the morning after some sordid activities;) And Ava leaves as quickly as she can after Jett, hoping to never let him find out who she is. Ava lost something pretty important with Jett and she doesn't even like him, but she hoped to remember what happened that night. And neither does Jett who just finds out that he failed the team's drug testing, on that night in question. And he has no idea what happened but wants to find Ava and prove what happened and that he wasn't doing drugs to be kicked off the team. I really liked the banter between Ava and Jett, they have hilarious moments of 'hating' each other and then not. Ava eventually finds out that Jett is hunting for her, except he has no idea who she is of course. I liked th story as it was engaging for a college story and the characters are well written. This was a really well written college story and I am highly recommending it to my dark college romance fans!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reviewed by Abbey on behalf of The Plot Thickens Book Club
Title: Ruthless Heart
Author: Eve L. Mitchell
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
If you love your romances fast-paced, intense, and dripping in enemies-to-lovers tension, Ruthless Heart delivers just that. This book throws you straight into the chaos of college life, where reputations are everything and the football players rule the halls — especially Jett.
When Ava finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time, she’s suddenly on Jett’s radar… and not in a good way. What follows is a fiery clash of wills, secrets, and undeniable chemistry that kept me hooked from beginning to end.
It’s got all the best new adult vibes, sports romance, off-the-charts tension, and a slow unravelling of characters with far more depth than they let on. I loved watching Jett and Ava push each other’s buttons in every way possible!
A great start to a gritty, addictive series I’ll definitely be picking up the next book in The Ruthless Devils lineup.
Title: Ruthless Heart
Author: Eve L. Mitchell
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
If you love your romances fast-paced, intense, and dripping in enemies-to-lovers tension, Ruthless Heart delivers just that. This book throws you straight into the chaos of college life, where reputations are everything and the football players rule the halls — especially Jett.
When Ava finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time, she’s suddenly on Jett’s radar… and not in a good way. What follows is a fiery clash of wills, secrets, and undeniable chemistry that kept me hooked from beginning to end.
It’s got all the best new adult vibes, sports romance, off-the-charts tension, and a slow unravelling of characters with far more depth than they let on. I loved watching Jett and Ava push each other’s buttons in every way possible!
A great start to a gritty, addictive series I’ll definitely be picking up the next book in The Ruthless Devils lineup.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3 stars for me.
Ava wakes up with hungover in Jett Santo’s bed.Losing her virginity is not enough,as Jett thinks that she drugged him,and will stop at nothing to make her pay.She wants to avoid him,but it's hard when her body seems to want him.Will those two figure it out,or will Jett revenge push them apart?
It was a quick and spicy read.Bully romance with little mystery and lots of lust.I didn't like for the most part Jett,he didn't even question Ava innocence,just assumed without proof that she's quilty.For someone so smart Ava really was tangled up in lust,I though she will make him grovel at least. I warm up to them at the almost end,but their relationship for me lack emotional involvement,it was more about lust then falling for each other.It was a good story,just wish there was more connection between them.The end was interesting as there seem to be story for the second characters,and I hope to read it in future.
Thank you Joffe books publisher dor arc,my review is honest and my own.
Ava wakes up with hungover in Jett Santo’s bed.Losing her virginity is not enough,as Jett thinks that she drugged him,and will stop at nothing to make her pay.She wants to avoid him,but it's hard when her body seems to want him.Will those two figure it out,or will Jett revenge push them apart?
It was a quick and spicy read.Bully romance with little mystery and lots of lust.I didn't like for the most part Jett,he didn't even question Ava innocence,just assumed without proof that she's quilty.For someone so smart Ava really was tangled up in lust,I though she will make him grovel at least. I warm up to them at the almost end,but their relationship for me lack emotional involvement,it was more about lust then falling for each other.It was a good story,just wish there was more connection between them.The end was interesting as there seem to be story for the second characters,and I hope to read it in future.
Thank you Joffe books publisher dor arc,my review is honest and my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Listen, I made a mistake when I requested this book on NetGalley; I should have checked it on Goodreads first. I really liked the blurb, and I was so happy when my request was granted. However, after reading the first two or three chapters, I realized that it does sound somewhat familiar, and I checked GR, and it looks like I have read the ARC of the previous book with the same title and story. This is a revised version, but I don't want to read it twice, so in honor of the granted request and my mistake, I will rate it the same as the first (unrevised) book.
My review of the original book: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Also, I really hate it when authors don't mention it's a revised, updated version. I think that would be fair to readers.
ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
My review of the original book: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Also, I really hate it when authors don't mention it's a revised, updated version. I think that would be fair to readers.
ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Overall I have mixed views, whilst I enjoyed the book overall, the romance between Ava and Jett felt rushed. I am still slightly perplexed at how everything negative that had happened to Ava in the college by Jett and his friends was suddenly undone, as if by magic, as soon as they got together. The initial start of the book was fantastic and really hooked me, but then it all got lost in translation between 15-65% where everything became confusing or at time pointless and childish (maybe I'm just too old for college nonsense). Additionally during this time there were numerous hints to something which I assume will be addressed in the next book but it felt more distracting than intriguing. I do appreciate it's the first in a series and authors certainly grow with time so I will definitely be continuing this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ava wakes up in a strange bed, not remembering the wild night she had with her college’s star quarterback the night before. He doesn’t either, and what follows is intense, thanks to Jett’s belief that Ava drugged him in an attempt to sabotage his college career & NFL future. With the support of his twin brother Gray & cousin Ash plus Quinn, who is like a sister to him, Jett plans to destroy Ava for what she did to him, but uncovers a dark part of the story surrounding the night they met.
I was hooked on this story, but had some struggles because of a side story surrounding Quinn - I liked it, but at times it felt like a distraction that didn’t take the story forward or have any conclusion. Hoping that the next book brings answers to that!!
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
I was hooked on this story, but had some struggles because of a side story surrounding Quinn - I liked it, but at times it felt like a distraction that didn’t take the story forward or have any conclusion. Hoping that the next book brings answers to that!!
Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy.
February 3, 2026
✨Eve L Mitchell does it again! I just love her writing. This is my 3rd book I’ve read of hers and it’s another 5 star read! I loved everything about this book. I especially loved the enemies to lovers in Ruthless Heart. The way the relationship began between Jett and Ava was crazy! I love me a good morally gray MMC who falls hard. 🤭
✨If you’re looking for a sports romance with a morally gray MMC and a fiesty smart FMC, then add this to your TBR!
🥀FAVORITE QUOTES🥀
“If unicorns were real, they’d fart rainbows.”
📚19/150
ARC REVIEW #14
✨Thank you to ChocLit and Eve L Mitchell for an opportunity to read this book. All opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.
✨If you’re looking for a sports romance with a morally gray MMC and a fiesty smart FMC, then add this to your TBR!
🥀FAVORITE QUOTES🥀
“If unicorns were real, they’d fart rainbows.”
📚19/150
ARC REVIEW #14
✨Thank you to ChocLit and Eve L Mitchell for an opportunity to read this book. All opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.
February 5, 2026
WOW just WOW !!!! This enemies to lovers book is just WOW. And it really is a proper hate to love story and boy did I hate Jett in the beginning....in fact he was a complete and utter A*** but once things started unravelling it kinda became clear why he was...still I think I could have quite easily nutted him myself. I was cheering Ava on when she got that moment in!!!! The background story of this book handles a difficult subject, one that shows how easy it can be, to be put into a really bad situation and its handled phenomenally well. Brilliantly written and yet another brilliant book by Eve
February 6, 2026
Was actually not a bad kindle book so I would say more 2.5 stars. The whole breaking into peoples houses was definitely random, there was no lead up to it and then it was just forgotten about. I’m assuming it’ll be in the second book.
The person that drugged her didn’t really give a reason, there was no meat to the idea and considering the whole book was leading up to it, it could’ve been more of a climax.
When Ava and Jett became lovers there wasn’t really any relationship building it just went from we’re sexually attracted to each other but also don’t like to each other to bam we’re in love.
The person that drugged her didn’t really give a reason, there was no meat to the idea and considering the whole book was leading up to it, it could’ve been more of a climax.
When Ava and Jett became lovers there wasn’t really any relationship building it just went from we’re sexually attracted to each other but also don’t like to each other to bam we’re in love.
February 2, 2026
This was one of those books that you pick up because holy heck the cover is 🔥 and then you completely lose yourself in the story, and it’s 5am and you wonder how you are going to get any sleep now or even begin to recover from your book hangover! It’s just that good!!! I think this was my first sports romance and it was everything I could have wanted it to be. I completely fell in love with Ava and her Take no bs attitude. Jett is the boy your mom warned you about and you will love him!!!! This is a must read book, I promise you will not be disappointed ❤️❤️❤️
February 8, 2026
I couldn’t put this book down and read it in 24 hours. Loved both the main characters, Ava was so quiet and unassuming on the surface but she packed a punch when she needed to, and seemed to always get one up on Jett. Jett was arrogant, rude, untouchable (and completely appealing).
I enjoyed how much Ava loved football and always knew the latest game stats and yet she didn’t pine after Jett like every other girl. It was good to read a sports mad FMC that didn’t play but just loved the game.
The bully romance wasn't over done and the chemistry between the MC was scorching, I’’ intrigued by the extra underlying plot which is clearly going to to continue in the next book and
I cannot wait to continue the series and read Grey and Quinn’s story at the end of the month.
I enjoyed how much Ava loved football and always knew the latest game stats and yet she didn’t pine after Jett like every other girl. It was good to read a sports mad FMC that didn’t play but just loved the game.
The bully romance wasn't over done and the chemistry between the MC was scorching, I’’ intrigued by the extra underlying plot which is clearly going to to continue in the next book and
I cannot wait to continue the series and read Grey and Quinn’s story at the end of the month.
February 7, 2026
Definitely recommend.
Ruthless Heart by Eve L. Mitchell.
This was a really good read. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. This is a new author for me. I got into this book straight away. I loved the writing style and the story. I liked Ava straight away. I didn't like Jet. He was not nice. I read this in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. I loved everything about this book. I definitely recommend this book.
Ruthless Heart by Eve L. Mitchell.
This was a really good read. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. This is a new author for me. I got into this book straight away. I loved the writing style and the story. I liked Ava straight away. I didn't like Jet. He was not nice. I read this in two sittings. I couldn't put it down. I loved everything about this book. I definitely recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, it’s an easy read and I really liked the MFC, Ava! There is a mystery throughout the book that we try to solve with the characters.
I loved Jett and his relationship with Gray and Ash. He definitely had a soft spot for Ava but didn’t show it until much later into the book.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I loved Jett and his relationship with Gray and Ash. He definitely had a soft spot for Ava but didn’t show it until much later into the book.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Overall it was a good book, but it took me a little longer to get through. I did want to know if there was going to be a sequel?? I would love to know more about the other characters.
And a huge thank you to the author for letting me read it! I can’t wait to see some more of your books!
And a huge thank you to the author for letting me read it! I can’t wait to see some more of your books!
February 8, 2026
Great Read
I love a family saga and even better that it’s forced proximity. The writers style was great and the football facts were stand out! Looking forward to book 2; as Quinn doesn’t seem like she can win me over as a reader.
I love a family saga and even better that it’s forced proximity. The writers style was great and the football facts were stand out! Looking forward to book 2; as Quinn doesn’t seem like she can win me over as a reader.
January 29, 2026
Ava is such a fun character to read about. The first chapter draws you in and the rest make you stay.
February 2, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
3 🌶
RTC
3 🌶
RTC
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a slow starter for me but after I'd reached the half way mark it really got good and I became OBSESSED
I loved the mystery element, about what had happened on the fateful night between Jett & Ava, the reader finds out what happens along with the characters.
The relationships and friendships between the characters enriched the story so much, I was rooting for them all.
The 🌶️ was also SO good, i would say it's 2/5.
I can see this being a good start to a series too as some of the charecters had back stories i would like to hear about and things that might happen with them in the future, especially after the epilogue.
I loved the mystery element, about what had happened on the fateful night between Jett & Ava, the reader finds out what happens along with the characters.
The relationships and friendships between the characters enriched the story so much, I was rooting for them all.
The 🌶️ was also SO good, i would say it's 2/5.
I can see this being a good start to a series too as some of the charecters had back stories i would like to hear about and things that might happen with them in the future, especially after the epilogue.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a perfect example of a bully romance with an alphahole done right. The story starts with our main couple having a one night stand, that neither can remember. I was constantly trying to guess who was behind their memory loss and even when it's revealed, I still hadn't guessed.
Definitely a great start to the series and I can't wait to read more.
Definitely a great start to the series and I can't wait to read more.
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