What do you think?
The Order #0
Pretty Ruthless
At Ashford University, power doesn’t belong to the professors.
It belongs to the students.
The ones with the right names.
The right connections.
The ones who decide what happens behind closed doors.
Becky Dawson doesn’t belong there.
She’s not rich. Not connected. Not invited.
But she knows something’s not right.
And every answer leads back to one man.
Carrson Ashford.
Cold. Controlled. Untouchable.
They say he’s dangerous. They don’t know the half of it.
Now Becky’s on the hunt.
Studying him, following him, learning patterns he thinks no one sees.
Because Carrson isn’t just a man.
He’s a door.
The heir to a world built on power, ambition, and survival.
But Becky isn’t the only predator here.
Carrson notices. Pushes to see if she’ll break.
When he presses a blade to her throat, she doesn’t run.
When he tells her to stay away, she steps closer.
When he tells her to run,
she waits to see if he’ll chase.
That’s a problem.
Because Becky Dawson?
She was never supposed to be part of his world.
But now that she is,
Carrson can’t decide
whether to destroy her…
or make sure she never leaves.
Before Pretty Vicious... there was Pretty Ruthless.
Set in 1994, this dark academia secret society romance is where is all begins, where power is everything, obsession is inevitable, and love is the most dangerous game of all.
It belongs to the students.
The ones with the right names.
The right connections.
The ones who decide what happens behind closed doors.
Becky Dawson doesn’t belong there.
She’s not rich. Not connected. Not invited.
But she knows something’s not right.
And every answer leads back to one man.
Carrson Ashford.
Cold. Controlled. Untouchable.
They say he’s dangerous. They don’t know the half of it.
Now Becky’s on the hunt.
Studying him, following him, learning patterns he thinks no one sees.
Because Carrson isn’t just a man.
He’s a door.
The heir to a world built on power, ambition, and survival.
But Becky isn’t the only predator here.
Carrson notices. Pushes to see if she’ll break.
When he presses a blade to her throat, she doesn’t run.
When he tells her to stay away, she steps closer.
When he tells her to run,
she waits to see if he’ll chase.
That’s a problem.
Because Becky Dawson?
She was never supposed to be part of his world.
But now that she is,
Carrson can’t decide
whether to destroy her…
or make sure she never leaves.
Before Pretty Vicious... there was Pretty Ruthless.
Set in 1994, this dark academia secret society romance is where is all begins, where power is everything, obsession is inevitable, and love is the most dangerous game of all.
300 pages, Unknown Binding
Published May 28, 2026
About the author
Lexi Davis
13 books1,597 followersLexi Davis loves long walks on the beach, drinking iced mochas, and writing smut. She believes in the ultimate power of love to both heal and transform. Her greatest hope is that her books bring joy to readers and allow them to escape one page at a time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 992 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is a prequel to Pretty Vicious and it was darker and heavier in some aspects, but I understand certain things so much better now. I don't think I ever did a complete 180 on a character like this before. I absolutely hated Carr in the first book, yet here I loved him. I'm questioning my sanity a little bit, but sometimes you just have to roll with it..
At Ashford University, people are slated for power. A secret society and people that seem to have more control than anyone has ever realised, but Becky noticed and she came to find him. Looking for answers, for change, for revenge and Carrson is in the center of it all. She pushing her way in and Carrson is starting to notice, but she's not the only predator. He's dangerous, she's determined and the clash is unavoidable..
Look, neither Becky nor Carrson are good people. They crave power and control. They crave each other. Becky knew what she wanted and she took it. Her grief made me so sad, those letters to Remi broke me a little. She was patient, she stayed around Carrson until his walls started to break, little by little. His darkness never scared her, it matched her own. She wanted to belong and she did exactly that. And Carrson, I honestly don't know what to think anymore. I hated that man so much before, yet here I started to understand him more and that made a difference, but I do feel a little guilty for not hating him more after everything. I can't say he changed, he didn't, he was always unhinged and dangerous, but understanding him and the scars he carries makes it difficult to judge.. I found myself loving his darkness and my heart broke for him. He wasn't perfect, far from it, but I get it. I get him.
Becky and Carrson were honestly perfect for each other, the way they were obsessed with one another, how she managed to get close to him, no matter how cold he was being. She never stopped looking for answers, but she found him and somehow that was everything and he finally found someone who loved all the parts that made him. She was always on his mind. Their story was unusual and intense, but it was inevitable. The spice was great, but that scene at the end, I found it so hot, which made me stop and question my sanity again, but once again, we role with it.
I thought I would get some answers here, but for every question answered, I had a dozen more. I need more. That epilogue, I knew that was going to happen, I just knew. I have to know what happened next and I'm so confused about some things. I need book two to come sooner!!! I need it now!!
*Thank you to Netgalley, to the author and to Victory Editing for providing me with an ARC.*
At Ashford University, people are slated for power. A secret society and people that seem to have more control than anyone has ever realised, but Becky noticed and she came to find him. Looking for answers, for change, for revenge and Carrson is in the center of it all. She pushing her way in and Carrson is starting to notice, but she's not the only predator. He's dangerous, she's determined and the clash is unavoidable..
Look, neither Becky nor Carrson are good people. They crave power and control. They crave each other. Becky knew what she wanted and she took it. Her grief made me so sad, those letters to Remi broke me a little. She was patient, she stayed around Carrson until his walls started to break, little by little. His darkness never scared her, it matched her own. She wanted to belong and she did exactly that. And Carrson, I honestly don't know what to think anymore. I hated that man so much before, yet here I started to understand him more and that made a difference, but I do feel a little guilty for not hating him more after everything. I can't say he changed, he didn't, he was always unhinged and dangerous, but understanding him and the scars he carries makes it difficult to judge.. I found myself loving his darkness and my heart broke for him. He wasn't perfect, far from it, but I get it. I get him.
Becky and Carrson were honestly perfect for each other, the way they were obsessed with one another, how she managed to get close to him, no matter how cold he was being. She never stopped looking for answers, but she found him and somehow that was everything and he finally found someone who loved all the parts that made him. She was always on his mind. Their story was unusual and intense, but it was inevitable. The spice was great, but that scene at the end, I found it so hot, which made me stop and question my sanity again, but once again, we role with it.
I thought I would get some answers here, but for every question answered, I had a dozen more. I need more. That epilogue, I knew that was going to happen, I just knew. I have to know what happened next and I'm so confused about some things. I need book two to come sooner!!! I need it now!!
*Thank you to Netgalley, to the author and to Victory Editing for providing me with an ARC.*
May 29, 2026
Thank you to Lexi Davis, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
4 / 5 ⭐
I like my men OBSESSSSED and Carrson was definitely right up my alley! Honestly, Becky too though hehe. I loved that they were just all over each other once we got over the slow burn.
I will say that I did not read Pretty Vicious yet, but I feel that you do not need to read that book in order to enjoy this one! I went in relatively blind and I still had a great time.
Carrson and Becky's chemistry was addictive. I loved their cat and mouse dynamic, and I found myself just wanting to know more about them and I wanted them to just reveal their secrets to each other already! Like ughhh. I was getting antsy.
He was the epitome of morally grey MMC, and Becky was also ruthless in her own way as well!!
I need to go back and read the first book now!
♡ pre-read ♡
Lexi Davis is slowly integrating her way into my must-read authors list hehe.
4 / 5 ⭐
I like my men OBSESSSSED and Carrson was definitely right up my alley! Honestly, Becky too though hehe. I loved that they were just all over each other once we got over the slow burn.
I will say that I did not read Pretty Vicious yet, but I feel that you do not need to read that book in order to enjoy this one! I went in relatively blind and I still had a great time.
Carrson and Becky's chemistry was addictive. I loved their cat and mouse dynamic, and I found myself just wanting to know more about them and I wanted them to just reveal their secrets to each other already! Like ughhh. I was getting antsy.
He was the epitome of morally grey MMC, and Becky was also ruthless in her own way as well!!
I need to go back and read the first book now!
♡ pre-read ♡
Lexi Davis is slowly integrating her way into my must-read authors list hehe.
Want to Read
May 16, 2026🐍 𝖆𝖗𝖈 𝖆𝖓𝖓𝖔𝖚𝖓𝖈𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖓𝖙 🐍
GUESS WHAT GUESS WHAT GUESS WHAT
GUESS WHAT GUESS WHAT GUESS WHAT
May 29, 2026
Pretty Ruthless is the prequel to Pretty Vicious, and it was the cherry on top of what I needed to become even more immersed in and understanding of The Order's world. The MFC, Becky, is not one to mess with. She is the predator, willing to stop at nothing to get what she wants. And what she wants is power and control, especially after losing someone close to her. But little does she know, the prey she was hunting for power and control… was also hunting her.
Honestly, this book left me wanting to reread Pretty Vicious just to catch all the little nuggets between Carr and Becky as adults. Their story left me satisfied while also begging for more of what's to come in this series. You slowly see the characters begin developing confidence after experiencing traumatic events, and their chemistry was truly fire meets fire.
Individually, they were also great characters. You watch Carr navigate how to take charge in the world he was born into, while Becky searches through every crevice to seek the power she's been craving.
All in all, it was a great read. Just please check the trigger warnings beforehand.
* I want to thank Netgalley and Lexi Davis for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Honestly, this book left me wanting to reread Pretty Vicious just to catch all the little nuggets between Carr and Becky as adults. Their story left me satisfied while also begging for more of what's to come in this series. You slowly see the characters begin developing confidence after experiencing traumatic events, and their chemistry was truly fire meets fire.
Individually, they were also great characters. You watch Carr navigate how to take charge in the world he was born into, while Becky searches through every crevice to seek the power she's been craving.
All in all, it was a great read. Just please check the trigger warnings beforehand.
* I want to thank Netgalley and Lexi Davis for the ARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 2, 2026
Thank you Netgalley and Lexi Davis for this ARC.
How I love everything that Lexi Davis writes!
This was definitely a great prequel. The slightest bit darker but also a bit less thrilling in comparison to pretty vicious.
This is really a softer version of the L.O.R.D.S. series for me and I'm all here for it. Will definitely buy them as physical copies.
How I love everything that Lexi Davis writes!
This was definitely a great prequel. The slightest bit darker but also a bit less thrilling in comparison to pretty vicious.
This is really a softer version of the L.O.R.D.S. series for me and I'm all here for it. Will definitely buy them as physical copies.
May 31, 2026
I loved Pretty Vicious and dove at the chance to read this one for sure. Knowing Carrson in Vicious as Carr I definitely didn't like him. But in Ruthless before he became Carr? I loved seeing Carrson's personality. From absolutely disliking his character to oddly loving him in this book is interesting for me. I'm needing book 3 to give me the answers to the changes, to things not answered in this book.
Carrson is young, closed off, doesn't allow touch, lethal. But watching him open up to Becky, take control, and really blossom was easily things that made me love his character. Becky? Her as the FMC definitely drove a lot of interest and easily kept me hanging onto all of her moments. How she gets past his defenses, burrows in under his skin. Their push and pull together. They both work so well together.
Okay but the other things?There are some inconsistencies like there's one moment where it's daytime, then she's dragged outside into the night air.... for the next page it to be noon. Okay, it's minor and doesn't take away from the plot. The lore? Is intriguing, but also filled with a large lack of information. Now with that said we have only had Pretty Vicious as book 1 and Ruthless as a prequel so of course we do not have all the information. I feel we are far from that and I'm hoping that a lot of the information we do not have is answered in the next book.
I did read this as an ARC but grabbed it off of KU to read as the final product. Unfortunately those inconsistencies and error are still in the book but they don't really take away from the experience since the inconsistencies aren't exactly plot related. I'm very interested in where the next book is going to go at this point and dying for answers to all the questions I still have.
If you enjoy a book that leaves you with questions and begging for answers, moments of vulnerability, an interesting secret society or cult like vibes, and some darker moments from the past or even just breath play this could be that book for you.
Update: The inconsistency has actually been corrected now*
Carrson is young, closed off, doesn't allow touch, lethal. But watching him open up to Becky, take control, and really blossom was easily things that made me love his character. Becky? Her as the FMC definitely drove a lot of interest and easily kept me hanging onto all of her moments. How she gets past his defenses, burrows in under his skin. Their push and pull together. They both work so well together.
Okay but the other things?
I did read this as an ARC but grabbed it off of KU to read as the final product. Unfortunately those inconsistencies and error are still in the book but they don't really take away from the experience since the inconsistencies aren't exactly plot related. I'm very interested in where the next book is going to go at this point and dying for answers to all the questions I still have.
If you enjoy a book that leaves you with questions and begging for answers, moments of vulnerability, an interesting secret society or cult like vibes, and some darker moments from the past or even just breath play this could be that book for you.
Update: The inconsistency has actually been corrected now*
May 30, 2026
This story setting is 1994-1995 and I love the time period so right out of the gate I was already feeling this book.
Carrson and Becky. I loved Becky! She was so strong and empowered with an absolute drive of a powerhouse. Carrson’s past was heartbreaking. I can see why he did some of the things he did because of his past. I read the trigger warnings and author note before I read this so I understood they were both a morally dark couple.
Having read Pretty Vicious before reading this story, I get a better sense of Carr. I see why he made the choices he made but my goodness… 😞 Knowing the pain his son went through does make me feel saddened for how the cycle continued. Overall 5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️ this scenes were spicy good!
Carrson and Becky. I loved Becky! She was so strong and empowered with an absolute drive of a powerhouse. Carrson’s past was heartbreaking. I can see why he did some of the things he did because of his past. I read the trigger warnings and author note before I read this so I understood they were both a morally dark couple.
Having read Pretty Vicious before reading this story, I get a better sense of Carr. I see why he made the choices he made but my goodness… 😞 Knowing the pain his son went through does make me feel saddened for how the cycle continued. Overall 5/5 ⭐️ 4/5 🌶️ this scenes were spicy good!
July 5, 2026
2*
This was an easy read - read in one sitting.
This was not dark romance (in my eyes). It was tame, but it was a quick read!
There’ wasn’t really a focus on a development of a relationship, everything happened very quickly between Becky and Carson.
I wish there was more on the society as well as Becky’s background, as I felt this was overlooked and a very minor subplot.
This was an easy read - read in one sitting.
This was not dark romance (in my eyes). It was tame, but it was a quick read!
There’ wasn’t really a focus on a development of a relationship, everything happened very quickly between Becky and Carson.
I wish there was more on the society as well as Becky’s background, as I felt this was overlooked and a very minor subplot.
May 30, 2026
Delicious, Cat & mouse, & trauma
Ate this up! Need more from this world
If you're looking for a quick good time.
Dive in, You won't be able to put it down!
Ate this up! Need more from this world
If you're looking for a quick good time.
Dive in, You won't be able to put it down!
May 31, 2026
3.75 ⭐
"Becky, What does love feel like?" ~Carrson Ashford
Pretty Ruthless serves as the prequel to Pretty Vicious, and in my opinion, it was the stronger of the two books. The writing felt more polished, the pacing was smoother, and the overall story flowed effortlessly from beginning to end.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the development of Carrson and Becky's relationship. Their connection wasn't rushed or forced; instead, it was built gradually in a way that felt natural and believable. Watching their bond grow amidst the darkness surrounding them made it easy to become emotionally invested in both characters.
The underlying storyline involving The Order added an extra layer of intrigue throughout the book. The secrets, dangers, and expectations placed upon these characters kept me turning the pages, eager to uncover more about their world and how everything would ultimately connect to the wider series. There was always enough mystery lingering beneath the surface to keep me interested without overwhelming the romance.
I've reviewed several of Lexi Davis's books now, and Pretty Ruthless is definitely my favourite so far. The trauma bonding between Carrson and Becky was handled in a way that felt compelling rather than repetitive, and the shared secrets they carried created a strong emotional foundation for their relationship. Their story kept me thoroughly invested from start to finish.
What I didn't expect was how much this book would change my perspective on Pretty Vicious. Having the background and context behind these characters has made me want to go back and reread it with a much more open mind and a greater appreciation for where everyone came from.
Overall, Pretty Ruthless was an engaging and well-structured prequel that successfully deepened the series while delivering a romance that kept me emotionally invested. If you've read Pretty Vicious, I would definitely recommend picking this one up.
"Becky, What does love feel like?" ~Carrson Ashford
Pretty Ruthless serves as the prequel to Pretty Vicious, and in my opinion, it was the stronger of the two books. The writing felt more polished, the pacing was smoother, and the overall story flowed effortlessly from beginning to end.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the development of Carrson and Becky's relationship. Their connection wasn't rushed or forced; instead, it was built gradually in a way that felt natural and believable. Watching their bond grow amidst the darkness surrounding them made it easy to become emotionally invested in both characters.
The underlying storyline involving The Order added an extra layer of intrigue throughout the book. The secrets, dangers, and expectations placed upon these characters kept me turning the pages, eager to uncover more about their world and how everything would ultimately connect to the wider series. There was always enough mystery lingering beneath the surface to keep me interested without overwhelming the romance.
I've reviewed several of Lexi Davis's books now, and Pretty Ruthless is definitely my favourite so far. The trauma bonding between Carrson and Becky was handled in a way that felt compelling rather than repetitive, and the shared secrets they carried created a strong emotional foundation for their relationship. Their story kept me thoroughly invested from start to finish.
What I didn't expect was how much this book would change my perspective on Pretty Vicious. Having the background and context behind these characters has made me want to go back and reread it with a much more open mind and a greater appreciation for where everyone came from.
Overall, Pretty Ruthless was an engaging and well-structured prequel that successfully deepened the series while delivering a romance that kept me emotionally invested. If you've read Pretty Vicious, I would definitely recommend picking this one up.
July 1, 2026
I was generously gifted this ARC after reading Bad Bunny by Lexi Davis around Easter time and although I hadn't read the other book in the series, the email reassured readers that it could be read as a standalone since it's a prequel. I'm happy to report that I didn't feel lost and was able to fully enjoy the story without any prior knowledge of the series.
Tropes
🩶 Morally grey mmc
❤️🔥 Dark academic romance
👊🏼 Touch her and die
❌️ Predator vs predator
🔥 Slow burn
🔐 Secret society
About
This book is pretty ruthless (get it, ha). I went in having read the trigger warnings, but it wasnt 'that' bad in terms of a dark romance. There wasn't anything that shocked me. Maybe that says more about me than it does about the book (hand over face). Either way, if you're familiar with darker romance, you'll probably know what you're signing up for.
MMC - Carrson
If you've read Pretty Vicious - don't come for me..I understand hes a terrible person in that book from the reviews on Goodreads and I will learn why, but in this prequel Carrson is the definition of a morally grey hero. His walls are sky-high, he's full of red flags, and he's completely obsessed with Becky from the very beginning (what we love). He's tortured by his past and, for reasons you'll discover as the story unfolds, he doesn't let anyone touch him. Anyone except Becky (cute or...). That detail made every moment of intimacy and vulnerability between them feel super special.
FMC - Becky
And speaking of Becky—I loved her. She knew exactly what she wanted and wasn't afraid to go after it. She didn't let Carrson's coldness and attitude scare her away, but she also wasn't a pushover. She was patient with him when he needed it, challenged him when he deserved it, and slowly but surely knocked those walls of his crashing down.
The chemistry between these two was intense, and I found myself completely invested in watching Carrson fight his feelings. Their relationship felt like a constant push and pull, cat and mouse, making it impossible not to keep turning the pages.
My only real criticism is that I don't feel like I fully understood The Order by the end of the book. The rules explain that women are given three daughters and men are given a son, but I was left confused about where these children actually come from, especially after THAT ending, say whaaaat! It felt like there were still some unanswered questions surrounding how the system works, and I found myself wishing for a little more clarity.
I was also a little unsure about Becky’s immediate obsession with Carrson. At times I struggled to understand why she was so drawn to him or how she even knew who he was in the first place, and I found myself questioning what her end goal or motivation was in pursuing him so strongly at the start.
However, I will be reading the other books in the series as I did enjoy this.
Rating
Character Driven ---⭐️------ Plot Driven
Insta Lust -------⭐️--- Slow Burn
Light/Fluffy ---------⭐️-- Emotional Damage
Low Angst ---------⭐️-- High Angst
Slow Paced -----⭐️------ Fast Paced
Spice Level 🌶🌶
Book Boyfriend Rating
Red Flag -🚩--------- Cinammon Roll
Serious -❤️---------- LOL
Overall, if you enjoy dark romance with a morally grey, obsessive hero, a strong heroine who knows her worth, and plenty of tension, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you Net Galley and team Lexi Davis for the arc.
Tropes
🩶 Morally grey mmc
❤️🔥 Dark academic romance
👊🏼 Touch her and die
❌️ Predator vs predator
🔥 Slow burn
🔐 Secret society
About
This book is pretty ruthless (get it, ha). I went in having read the trigger warnings, but it wasnt 'that' bad in terms of a dark romance. There wasn't anything that shocked me. Maybe that says more about me than it does about the book (hand over face). Either way, if you're familiar with darker romance, you'll probably know what you're signing up for.
MMC - Carrson
If you've read Pretty Vicious - don't come for me..I understand hes a terrible person in that book from the reviews on Goodreads and I will learn why, but in this prequel Carrson is the definition of a morally grey hero. His walls are sky-high, he's full of red flags, and he's completely obsessed with Becky from the very beginning (what we love). He's tortured by his past and, for reasons you'll discover as the story unfolds, he doesn't let anyone touch him. Anyone except Becky (cute or...). That detail made every moment of intimacy and vulnerability between them feel super special.
FMC - Becky
And speaking of Becky—I loved her. She knew exactly what she wanted and wasn't afraid to go after it. She didn't let Carrson's coldness and attitude scare her away, but she also wasn't a pushover. She was patient with him when he needed it, challenged him when he deserved it, and slowly but surely knocked those walls of his crashing down.
The chemistry between these two was intense, and I found myself completely invested in watching Carrson fight his feelings. Their relationship felt like a constant push and pull, cat and mouse, making it impossible not to keep turning the pages.
My only real criticism is that I don't feel like I fully understood The Order by the end of the book. The rules explain that women are given three daughters and men are given a son, but I was left confused about where these children actually come from, especially after THAT ending, say whaaaat! It felt like there were still some unanswered questions surrounding how the system works, and I found myself wishing for a little more clarity.
I was also a little unsure about Becky’s immediate obsession with Carrson. At times I struggled to understand why she was so drawn to him or how she even knew who he was in the first place, and I found myself questioning what her end goal or motivation was in pursuing him so strongly at the start.
However, I will be reading the other books in the series as I did enjoy this.
Rating
Character Driven ---⭐️------ Plot Driven
Insta Lust -------⭐️--- Slow Burn
Light/Fluffy ---------⭐️-- Emotional Damage
Low Angst ---------⭐️-- High Angst
Slow Paced -----⭐️------ Fast Paced
Spice Level 🌶🌶
Book Boyfriend Rating
Red Flag -🚩--------- Cinammon Roll
Serious -❤️---------- LOL
Overall, if you enjoy dark romance with a morally grey, obsessive hero, a strong heroine who knows her worth, and plenty of tension, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Thank you Net Galley and team Lexi Davis for the arc.
June 21, 2026
I loved this story but not as much as book 1. I think my biggest issue is at times I felt like I was reading the exact same book but with different people. Which personally I didn't hate, because I absolutely love the story and vibe. I just want more new information!! Maybe I'm just being needy and this may only be a me problem.
There are some serious similarities between the FMC/MMC in this book and the 1st. There are a few key differences though and it does lean a little more into the lore (which I loved!) but I have sooooo many questions that I need answers to. I just need the third book right now!
There are some serious similarities between the FMC/MMC in this book and the 1st. There are a few key differences though and it does lean a little more into the lore (which I loved!) but I have sooooo many questions that I need answers to. I just need the third book right now!
June 11, 2026
If you like a touch of Haunting Adeline with some secret society plot lines intertwined, you'll want to read this.
June 24, 2026
Lexi has done it once again 👏 👏
Every single book I read of hers is better than the last.
First I'd just like to thank Lexi Davis for allowing me to be on her arc team, and also apologize that my review is so late 😅
But dang, my girl has outdone herself with this one! I truly enjoyed reading Carrson and Becky's origin story and how they fell in love, and to see where Carrson from Pretty Vicious got his start.
This book was so good; it pulled me in right from the start and didnt let go. I may have stayed up all night reading this, no biggie. Thats just how good it was.
Carrson is an unforgettable character. The way he opened up to Becky amd learned to trust her before he even knew what was happenin; the way he loved her in his own unique way; the way he protected her from anyone who wanted to harm her, but especially from Jackson and Jack, who really thought they had a chance to force her to be Jackson's bonded. Which was a whole thing, read the book to find out!!
This story came together so seamlessly. The order of events made sense, the characters were likeable (most of the time lol),, and the storyline had a natural progression that I enjoyed.
Lexi is just incredible at writing morally Grey men and badass women who lobe them despite all of their red flags.
HIGHLY recommend this book to all of my dark romance lovers 💗
Every single book I read of hers is better than the last.
First I'd just like to thank Lexi Davis for allowing me to be on her arc team, and also apologize that my review is so late 😅
But dang, my girl has outdone herself with this one! I truly enjoyed reading Carrson and Becky's origin story and how they fell in love, and to see where Carrson from Pretty Vicious got his start.
This book was so good; it pulled me in right from the start and didnt let go. I may have stayed up all night reading this, no biggie. Thats just how good it was.
Carrson is an unforgettable character. The way he opened up to Becky amd learned to trust her before he even knew what was happenin; the way he loved her in his own unique way; the way he protected her from anyone who wanted to harm her, but especially from Jackson and Jack, who really thought they had a chance to force her to be Jackson's bonded. Which was a whole thing, read the book to find out!!
This story came together so seamlessly. The order of events made sense, the characters were likeable (most of the time lol),, and the storyline had a natural progression that I enjoyed.
Lexi is just incredible at writing morally Grey men and badass women who lobe them despite all of their red flags.
HIGHLY recommend this book to all of my dark romance lovers 💗
May 26, 2026
"I can be pretty ruthless when I want to be"
4 ☆
Lexi Davis you have done it again!!! What an incredible dark romance! When I say I have no self control, I'm serious because I read this book in 2 hours non stop, I was that hooked🥲
This book pulled me in right from the start, I love when we meet both MMC and FMC earlier on in the book and that's exactly what I got. Carrson was such a good MMC, he was morally grey but he became such a softie for her🥹 He kept trying to deny his feelings for her but you could see in his POV how hard he was falling and I was obsessed. He has such a traumatic past, it made me so sad.
Becky, I adored her. She was so feisty and I love that she didn't give up on getting answers even after she caught feelings for Carrson. We love an FMC who isn't lead by her feelings for a man. I love that she knew what she wanted and literally just went for it. Both of these characters deserve the world🥹
If you love secret societies and morally grey MMCs, pretty ruthless is something you should definitely read!
Thank you so much Lexi for this ARC!!!! I cannot wait to continue this series🩷
4 ☆
Lexi Davis you have done it again!!! What an incredible dark romance! When I say I have no self control, I'm serious because I read this book in 2 hours non stop, I was that hooked🥲
This book pulled me in right from the start, I love when we meet both MMC and FMC earlier on in the book and that's exactly what I got. Carrson was such a good MMC, he was morally grey but he became such a softie for her🥹 He kept trying to deny his feelings for her but you could see in his POV how hard he was falling and I was obsessed. He has such a traumatic past, it made me so sad.
Becky, I adored her. She was so feisty and I love that she didn't give up on getting answers even after she caught feelings for Carrson. We love an FMC who isn't lead by her feelings for a man. I love that she knew what she wanted and literally just went for it. Both of these characters deserve the world🥹
If you love secret societies and morally grey MMCs, pretty ruthless is something you should definitely read!
Thank you so much Lexi for this ARC!!!! I cannot wait to continue this series🩷
June 5, 2026
Listen… I was not prepared for this 🥲
So wild that I did a complete 180 on Carr as a character. I hated him in the first book, but now I’m obsessed cause this man is obsessed 🤭 I loved that he went soft as putty for the fmc, let’s go 🔥
As always, love the dark academia/secret society vibes. I felt that everything was laid out very clearly in here as well, so if you picked this up as a standalone, you would still understand the lore.
I love how obsessive and strong the fmc was! She came in knowing what she wanted and she went for it, I was completely rooting for her. The letters to Remi broke me 💔
All in all, loved this book so much and can’t wait for the next one, thank you to the author and Victory Editing for giving me an eArc 🫶🏻
So wild that I did a complete 180 on Carr as a character. I hated him in the first book, but now I’m obsessed cause this man is obsessed 🤭 I loved that he went soft as putty for the fmc, let’s go 🔥
As always, love the dark academia/secret society vibes. I felt that everything was laid out very clearly in here as well, so if you picked this up as a standalone, you would still understand the lore.
I love how obsessive and strong the fmc was! She came in knowing what she wanted and she went for it, I was completely rooting for her. The letters to Remi broke me 💔
All in all, loved this book so much and can’t wait for the next one, thank you to the author and Victory Editing for giving me an eArc 🫶🏻
August 13, 2026
Returning to Ashford house and the order was just like you expect, with secrets, terror and twists of course you dont see coming. This was a look into Carrson's father's past now we jump back into the current timeliness and I cant wait to see what Lexi has in store.
June 2, 2026
Set in 1994 at Ashford University, where power belongs to students with the right names and connections,  Pretty Ruthless is a prequel to Pretty Vicious that delivers one of dark romance’s most satisfying match-ups: two predators circling each other.
Becky Dawson is on the hunt — studying Carrson Ashford, following him, learning patterns he thinks no one sees. But Carrson notices, and can’t decide whether to destroy her or make sure she never leaves.  The result is a cat-and-mouse slow burn that crackles with tension from start to finish.
Dark academia aesthetics, a blood-bound secret society, and enemies-to-lovers heat  round out a fast, addictive read. Fans of the series will love the origin story; newcomers will find it a strong entry point. The only complaint: it ends too soon.
More on my instagram: @mamareadsandreviews
Becky Dawson is on the hunt — studying Carrson Ashford, following him, learning patterns he thinks no one sees. But Carrson notices, and can’t decide whether to destroy her or make sure she never leaves.  The result is a cat-and-mouse slow burn that crackles with tension from start to finish.
Dark academia aesthetics, a blood-bound secret society, and enemies-to-lovers heat  round out a fast, addictive read. Fans of the series will love the origin story; newcomers will find it a strong entry point. The only complaint: it ends too soon.
More on my instagram: @mamareadsandreviews
May 17, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
Becky is definitely persistent, and obsessive, I’ll give her that! Carrson doesn’t give in straight away, he’s so used to closing himself off that he doesn’t want to let anyone in. Their building relationship is beautiful to read; Becky has the patience of a saint, and watching Carrson slowly lowering his walls made me smile.
This was a great prequel to Pretty Vicious, showing the challenges everyone has to obey when in the Order. However, I did find parts of it repetitive to the goings on in Pretty Vicious, but it acted as a nice reminder to what occurred in Pretty Vicious.
The second epilogue left me with many more questions, and I can’t wait to dive in to Pretty Savage! The romance was a lot darker, and definitely spicier!
Becky is definitely persistent, and obsessive, I’ll give her that! Carrson doesn’t give in straight away, he’s so used to closing himself off that he doesn’t want to let anyone in. Their building relationship is beautiful to read; Becky has the patience of a saint, and watching Carrson slowly lowering his walls made me smile.
This was a great prequel to Pretty Vicious, showing the challenges everyone has to obey when in the Order. However, I did find parts of it repetitive to the goings on in Pretty Vicious, but it acted as a nice reminder to what occurred in Pretty Vicious.
The second epilogue left me with many more questions, and I can’t wait to dive in to Pretty Savage! The romance was a lot darker, and definitely spicier!
May 30, 2026
I am just so confused by the plot like I don't even know what the plot is. Also I am pretty sure the author used AI to generate the images so that sucks.
I got an ARC provided by NetGalley.
I got an ARC provided by NetGalley.
September 21, 2026
Okay, first off that epilogue ending?! The fact that I KNOW I won’t get answers until Carrson gets answers is absolutely DIABOLICAL. 😭 I need to know what happens next immediately.
I was hooked from the very first chapter, and I definitely recommend paying attention to the content/trigger warnings because they show up fast. But honestly, the intensity was part of what pulled me in. This book takes you through a serious range of emotions, and just when you think you have things figured out, there’s another twist, revelation, or perfectly placed piece of foreshadowing.
I really enjoyed Lexi Davis’s writing style. It’s easy to consume without feeling overly simplistic, and I never found myself stopping to decipher unnecessarily complicated language. The modern setting makes the world feel relatable, while the author simultaneously creates this darker world within our own. I especially loved the humor and sarcasm throughout the book. Some of the snarky comments and reactions felt like exactly what I would think or say in the moment, which made the characters feel even more human.
Speaking of the characters, I am grudgingly empathetic of Carr. The characters aren’t necessarily relatable given the world they inhabit, but the author does an incredible job making them feel human enough that you can connect with them. I found myself sympathizing with Carr in ways I absolutely did not expect. And now that I’m reading Pretty Savage (the 2nd order book), I’m seeing Carr through an even more empathetic lens. I love how much layering the author has built into these characters and how your perception of them can shift as you learn more.
I also loved how Pretty Ruthless expands on the world we were introduced to in Pretty Vicious (first order book). Having already experienced this universe made the story incredibly easy to fall into, and I loved getting more context for the next generation. It feels like the kind of world where everything is connected, and I’m very much here for it.
Overall, Pretty Ruthless was a 5-star read for me. Dark academia, college setting, mafia vibes, morally questionable characters, intense emotions, humor, twists, and a cliffhanger designed specifically to ruin my peace? Yeah. I’m in.
Would I reread it? Absolutely. Would I recommend it? Also absolutely. Would I like answers to that lingering questions immediately? VERY MUCH SO
I was hooked from the very first chapter, and I definitely recommend paying attention to the content/trigger warnings because they show up fast. But honestly, the intensity was part of what pulled me in. This book takes you through a serious range of emotions, and just when you think you have things figured out, there’s another twist, revelation, or perfectly placed piece of foreshadowing.
I really enjoyed Lexi Davis’s writing style. It’s easy to consume without feeling overly simplistic, and I never found myself stopping to decipher unnecessarily complicated language. The modern setting makes the world feel relatable, while the author simultaneously creates this darker world within our own. I especially loved the humor and sarcasm throughout the book. Some of the snarky comments and reactions felt like exactly what I would think or say in the moment, which made the characters feel even more human.
Speaking of the characters, I am grudgingly empathetic of Carr. The characters aren’t necessarily relatable given the world they inhabit, but the author does an incredible job making them feel human enough that you can connect with them. I found myself sympathizing with Carr in ways I absolutely did not expect. And now that I’m reading Pretty Savage (the 2nd order book), I’m seeing Carr through an even more empathetic lens. I love how much layering the author has built into these characters and how your perception of them can shift as you learn more.
I also loved how Pretty Ruthless expands on the world we were introduced to in Pretty Vicious (first order book). Having already experienced this universe made the story incredibly easy to fall into, and I loved getting more context for the next generation. It feels like the kind of world where everything is connected, and I’m very much here for it.
Overall, Pretty Ruthless was a 5-star read for me. Dark academia, college setting, mafia vibes, morally questionable characters, intense emotions, humor, twists, and a cliffhanger designed specifically to ruin my peace? Yeah. I’m in.
Would I reread it? Absolutely. Would I recommend it? Also absolutely. Would I like answers to that lingering questions immediately? VERY MUCH SO
July 10, 2026
If you love dark romance with complex characters, layered mysteries, and writing that completely pulls you into the story, this series deserves your attention immediately.
🖤 Dark academia
🗝️ Secret society
🖤 Morally black MMC
🔥 Obsessive FMC
🐌 Slow burn
⚔️ Enemies-to-lovers
"I think you underestimate me," I say, lifting my chin.
"Oh, really?" His mouth tugs, and he lifts one eyebrow, not dismissive. Interested.
"Yes." I flick my hair over my shoulder, playing it up because he's watching. "I can be pretty ruthless when I want to be."
"Can you now?"
Every time I read a Lexi Davis book, I'm reminded why she's become one of my favourite dark romance authors 😮💨 Her writing is incredibly immersive. I completely lose track of time, forget about everything around me, and before I know it, I've devoured another chunk of the book. That's exactly the kind of reading experience I love.
And the cherry on top? 🍒 Stumbling across stunning character illustrations while reading. She has done this in most (maybe even all) of the books I've read by her, and I absolutely love that she includes them.
His kindness ruins me in a way cruelty never could.
While Pretty Ruthless is still quite dark, I actually found myself even more emotionally invested than I was in Pretty Vicious. This book gives you a completely different perspective on the characters and the events you thought you already understood from book one.
Because after reading Pretty Vicious, I knew one thing for sure: I hated Carr.
I never expected Lexi to completely change my opinion of him... and yet here we are 🤯 He's intense, vicious, controlling, and power-hungry. He's far from a good person, and yet I was rooting for him.
That's what impresses me most about Lexi's writing. She takes deeply flawed, completely unhinged characters and somehow makes you emotionally attached to them.
And the same goes for Becky. If you're expecting a sweet FMC... oh no. Change those expectations, because she might not be completely unhinged, but she's definitely not far off!
"We're not good people," I whisper, "but we can be good to each other."
The world itself is just as addictive. Every answer reveals another secret, every revelation changes the direction of the story, and I constantly felt like there was another layer waiting to be uncovered.
By the time I reached the epilogue, I was left with one thought only: I NEED THE NEXT BOOK IMMEDIATELY.
One thing I would recommend, though, is reading this series in publication order.
Even though Pretty Ruthless is technically a prequel, I think it has so much more impact after reading Pretty Vicious. Watching everything fall into place and seeing familiar characters in a completely new light made the experience even more rewarding. It even left me wanting to reread the first book straight away.
Fuck that. I am cruel. I'm a monster. A killer. I ruin things. You won't be the exception.
*I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
🖤 Dark academia
🗝️ Secret society
🖤 Morally black MMC
🔥 Obsessive FMC
🐌 Slow burn
⚔️ Enemies-to-lovers
"I think you underestimate me," I say, lifting my chin.
"Oh, really?" His mouth tugs, and he lifts one eyebrow, not dismissive. Interested.
"Yes." I flick my hair over my shoulder, playing it up because he's watching. "I can be pretty ruthless when I want to be."
"Can you now?"
Every time I read a Lexi Davis book, I'm reminded why she's become one of my favourite dark romance authors 😮💨 Her writing is incredibly immersive. I completely lose track of time, forget about everything around me, and before I know it, I've devoured another chunk of the book. That's exactly the kind of reading experience I love.
And the cherry on top? 🍒 Stumbling across stunning character illustrations while reading. She has done this in most (maybe even all) of the books I've read by her, and I absolutely love that she includes them.
His kindness ruins me in a way cruelty never could.
While Pretty Ruthless is still quite dark, I actually found myself even more emotionally invested than I was in Pretty Vicious. This book gives you a completely different perspective on the characters and the events you thought you already understood from book one.
Because after reading Pretty Vicious, I knew one thing for sure: I hated Carr.
I never expected Lexi to completely change my opinion of him... and yet here we are 🤯 He's intense, vicious, controlling, and power-hungry. He's far from a good person, and yet I was rooting for him.
That's what impresses me most about Lexi's writing. She takes deeply flawed, completely unhinged characters and somehow makes you emotionally attached to them.
And the same goes for Becky. If you're expecting a sweet FMC... oh no. Change those expectations, because she might not be completely unhinged, but she's definitely not far off!
"We're not good people," I whisper, "but we can be good to each other."
The world itself is just as addictive. Every answer reveals another secret, every revelation changes the direction of the story, and I constantly felt like there was another layer waiting to be uncovered.
By the time I reached the epilogue, I was left with one thought only: I NEED THE NEXT BOOK IMMEDIATELY.
One thing I would recommend, though, is reading this series in publication order.
Even though Pretty Ruthless is technically a prequel, I think it has so much more impact after reading Pretty Vicious. Watching everything fall into place and seeing familiar characters in a completely new light made the experience even more rewarding. It even left me wanting to reread the first book straight away.
Fuck that. I am cruel. I'm a monster. A killer. I ruin things. You won't be the exception.
*I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
September 6, 2026
I’m not a big dark romance reader, but I’ve been dipping my toes in more and more lately. So when I received this ARC from NetGalley, I dove right in!
Pretty Ruthless is the prequel to The Order series. The book is set in the 90’s and centered around Carrson and Becky. Becky doesn’t belong at Ashford University - she’s not rich, doesn’t have any power, and she’s definitely an outsider to the elite fraternities ruling the school. At the top of that food chain is Carrson Ashford: cold, controlled, untouchable.
Becky starts studying him, getting closer bit by bit… but Carrson is a predator, determined to keep her at arm’s length while still wanting to hunt her. Between the hate, the mistrust, and the danger, there’s also chemistry - and a whole lot of desire…
💭 This story was almost a 3.5 or even 4‑star read for me. I’m still discovering dark romance, and I don’t always enjoy it, but this one is genuinely well written. Carrson is the perfect morally grey character, and Becky seems like the ideal target… yet she never backs down. She’s sassy, sharp, and refuses to let anyone dictate her life - something I love in a FMC.
And honestly? You can’t not enjoy Carrson in this book. He’s dangerous, intimidating, powerful… but also deeply hurt and insecure once you peel back the layers. That softer side made their romance so much more compelling. And the spice? Dark, tense, and just right - never too much.
The story itself intrigued me. I wanted answers about Becky’s sister, I wanted more intel on The Order, and the setup had me hooked. But that’s where the book lost me a bit: the plot felt weak, and I think it could’ve gone much deeper. There’s not enough explanation about why Becky wants to be part of Carrson’s world, barely any clarity about her sister, and I closed the book with more questions than answers. Loose ends aren’t my favorite - though maybe they’ll be resolved in the next books.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this. The characters are strong, the spice is great, and the writing pulled me in. I just wish the plot had delivered more answers. Still… I’m definitely curious about the rest of the series! 💚
Pretty Ruthless is the prequel to The Order series. The book is set in the 90’s and centered around Carrson and Becky. Becky doesn’t belong at Ashford University - she’s not rich, doesn’t have any power, and she’s definitely an outsider to the elite fraternities ruling the school. At the top of that food chain is Carrson Ashford: cold, controlled, untouchable.
Becky starts studying him, getting closer bit by bit… but Carrson is a predator, determined to keep her at arm’s length while still wanting to hunt her. Between the hate, the mistrust, and the danger, there’s also chemistry - and a whole lot of desire…
💭 This story was almost a 3.5 or even 4‑star read for me. I’m still discovering dark romance, and I don’t always enjoy it, but this one is genuinely well written. Carrson is the perfect morally grey character, and Becky seems like the ideal target… yet she never backs down. She’s sassy, sharp, and refuses to let anyone dictate her life - something I love in a FMC.
And honestly? You can’t not enjoy Carrson in this book. He’s dangerous, intimidating, powerful… but also deeply hurt and insecure once you peel back the layers. That softer side made their romance so much more compelling. And the spice? Dark, tense, and just right - never too much.
The story itself intrigued me. I wanted answers about Becky’s sister, I wanted more intel on The Order, and the setup had me hooked. But that’s where the book lost me a bit: the plot felt weak, and I think it could’ve gone much deeper. There’s not enough explanation about why Becky wants to be part of Carrson’s world, barely any clarity about her sister, and I closed the book with more questions than answers. Loose ends aren’t my favorite - though maybe they’ll be resolved in the next books.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this. The characters are strong, the spice is great, and the writing pulled me in. I just wish the plot had delivered more answers. Still… I’m definitely curious about the rest of the series! 💚
May 27, 2026
I was not expecting to fall head over heels for Carr but here we are. When I first saw this book I immediately assumed it was the sequel to Pretty Vicious so when I saw the FMC was named Becky naturally my immediate thought was… Who TF is Becky?!?! Laurel or bust! Then like five seconds later is when I discovered that it’s actually a prequel, Carrson is actually Carr and Becky is not a replacement for Laurel. All was well in the spicy, dark romance world once again.
I feel like I sound like a broken record whenever I write a review for Lexi Davis but what can I say? Everything remains true with each book because she consistently leans into her strengths with her writing. Pretty Ruthless is no exception, you can expect LD’s highly addictive writing. With every single one of her books I am hooked from the very first page. Her characters are multidimensional and the scenes are always so well written that they grab the reader by the collar and pull them straight into the pages. These are books where I truly forget that I am reading, making them a staple on my bookshelf and ones I can’t stop recommending.
I loved getting the chance to revisit Ashford and Rosewood House. The Order is deeply dark and twisted but offers a peek into the life of a secret society. I am so thoroughly invested in the storyline so of course that ending has left me reeling. I think I might have even more questions than I started with but you won’t hear my complaining. Looks like I will be doing a reread of Pretty Vicious sooner than later. I have come to love each and every character from this world and need more like I need air. So Lexi, if you’re reading this, paaaleeeeaaaase give us more! I need a story for everyone - Sam, Thomson and Rose!!!
A great big thank you to the one and only, Lexi Davis for gifting me an advanced reader copy of Pretty Ruthless. I cannot wait to purchase a physical copy for my shelf on pub day!
I feel like I sound like a broken record whenever I write a review for Lexi Davis but what can I say? Everything remains true with each book because she consistently leans into her strengths with her writing. Pretty Ruthless is no exception, you can expect LD’s highly addictive writing. With every single one of her books I am hooked from the very first page. Her characters are multidimensional and the scenes are always so well written that they grab the reader by the collar and pull them straight into the pages. These are books where I truly forget that I am reading, making them a staple on my bookshelf and ones I can’t stop recommending.
I loved getting the chance to revisit Ashford and Rosewood House. The Order is deeply dark and twisted but offers a peek into the life of a secret society. I am so thoroughly invested in the storyline so of course that ending has left me reeling. I think I might have even more questions than I started with but you won’t hear my complaining. Looks like I will be doing a reread of Pretty Vicious sooner than later. I have come to love each and every character from this world and need more like I need air. So Lexi, if you’re reading this, paaaleeeeaaaase give us more! I need a story for everyone - Sam, Thomson and Rose!!!
A great big thank you to the one and only, Lexi Davis for gifting me an advanced reader copy of Pretty Ruthless. I cannot wait to purchase a physical copy for my shelf on pub day!
May 28, 2026
3.5⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
I’m such a Lexi Davis fan, but I didn’t enjoy this one quite as much as Pretty Vicious, which I absolutely loved. However, this is the prequel so we get more history into the Order.
This story follows Becky and Carrson Sr., and Carrson was easily my favorite part. He’s cold, morally black, tortured, hates everyone, and doesn’t let anyone touch him…except her. Exactly the kind of morally grey character I love. He was intimidating, obsessive, and honestly I loved that he was inexperienced because it made the spice hit even harder.
The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Becky and Carrson was SO good. Their relationship was messy, toxic, and full of obsession. The slow burn and tension was done really well.
I didn’t fully connect with Becky though. I understood her purpose in breaking down Carrson’s walls and getting him to open up, but at times she honestly just gave obsessive stalker and annoyed me.
One thing I really loved was getting a deeper look into The Order and the darker side of it. The rituals, manipulation, secrets, and power dynamics gave the story such a strong dark academia vibes.
That ending had me stressed. After that epilogue, I definitely need the next book because I have way too many questions now.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Prequel/ Dark Romance Series
➳❥ Morally Black MMC
➳❥ Obsessive FMC
➳❥ Secret Society
➳❥ Cat & Mouse
➳❥ Slow Burn
➳❥ Touch Her & Die
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“He's going to chase me. And the crazy part, I want him to.”
"You see, I don't just want to hurt you. I want to mark you."
“I’m not a good person.”
“Good, neither am I.”
“I'm a fucking addict, and my preferred drug, is the sound you make when you come"
"I want you to admit it. You don't run from me. You run for me."
I’m such a Lexi Davis fan, but I didn’t enjoy this one quite as much as Pretty Vicious, which I absolutely loved. However, this is the prequel so we get more history into the Order.
This story follows Becky and Carrson Sr., and Carrson was easily my favorite part. He’s cold, morally black, tortured, hates everyone, and doesn’t let anyone touch him…except her. Exactly the kind of morally grey character I love. He was intimidating, obsessive, and honestly I loved that he was inexperienced because it made the spice hit even harder.
The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Becky and Carrson was SO good. Their relationship was messy, toxic, and full of obsession. The slow burn and tension was done really well.
I didn’t fully connect with Becky though. I understood her purpose in breaking down Carrson’s walls and getting him to open up, but at times she honestly just gave obsessive stalker and annoyed me.
One thing I really loved was getting a deeper look into The Order and the darker side of it. The rituals, manipulation, secrets, and power dynamics gave the story such a strong dark academia vibes.
That ending had me stressed. After that epilogue, I definitely need the next book because I have way too many questions now.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Prequel/ Dark Romance Series
➳❥ Morally Black MMC
➳❥ Obsessive FMC
➳❥ Secret Society
➳❥ Cat & Mouse
➳❥ Slow Burn
➳❥ Touch Her & Die
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“He's going to chase me. And the crazy part, I want him to.”
"You see, I don't just want to hurt you. I want to mark you."
“I’m not a good person.”
“Good, neither am I.”
“I'm a fucking addict, and my preferred drug, is the sound you make when you come"
"I want you to admit it. You don't run from me. You run for me."
July 12, 2026
Pretty Ruthless takes us back to 1994 and reveals the dark beginnings of The Order through Becky Dawson and Carrson Ashford.
Becky arrives at Ashford University searching for answers about her sister Remi’s death. She doesn’t have wealth, influence, or a powerful family name, but she refuses to be intimidated by the students who control everything behind closed doors. Every clue eventually leads her to Carrson Ashford.
Carrson is cold, controlled, and deeply embedded in a world built on manipulation, blood oaths, violence, and inherited power. He warns Becky to stay away, but she continues watching him, following him, and challenging him. Their relationship quickly becomes a dangerous battle between two people who recognize the darkness inside each other.
What stood out to me was how Becky’s investigation slowly changed her. She begins as an outsider trying to expose The Order, but the closer she gets to Carrson, the more blurred the line becomes between uncovering the society and becoming part of it.
Becky and Carrson’s connection isn’t soft or healing. It is obsessive, unsettling, tender in unexpected moments, and destructive in others. Their shared trauma creates a bond neither of them can easily escape.
This prequel adds so much history to The Order while showing how its traditions, secrets, and cycles of violence were passed down through generations. It can be read as a standalone, but readers of Pretty Vicious will recognize the foundations of the dangerous legacy that follows.
Dark, atmospheric, and filled with morally gray choices, Pretty Ruthless explores what happens when grief and ambition turn outsiders into the architects of the very system they once despised.
Becky arrives at Ashford University searching for answers about her sister Remi’s death. She doesn’t have wealth, influence, or a powerful family name, but she refuses to be intimidated by the students who control everything behind closed doors. Every clue eventually leads her to Carrson Ashford.
Carrson is cold, controlled, and deeply embedded in a world built on manipulation, blood oaths, violence, and inherited power. He warns Becky to stay away, but she continues watching him, following him, and challenging him. Their relationship quickly becomes a dangerous battle between two people who recognize the darkness inside each other.
What stood out to me was how Becky’s investigation slowly changed her. She begins as an outsider trying to expose The Order, but the closer she gets to Carrson, the more blurred the line becomes between uncovering the society and becoming part of it.
Becky and Carrson’s connection isn’t soft or healing. It is obsessive, unsettling, tender in unexpected moments, and destructive in others. Their shared trauma creates a bond neither of them can easily escape.
This prequel adds so much history to The Order while showing how its traditions, secrets, and cycles of violence were passed down through generations. It can be read as a standalone, but readers of Pretty Vicious will recognize the foundations of the dangerous legacy that follows.
Dark, atmospheric, and filled with morally gray choices, Pretty Ruthless explores what happens when grief and ambition turn outsiders into the architects of the very system they once despised.
August 3, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Lexi Davis, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Pretty Ruthless by Lexi Davis
4⭐️ | 3.5🌶️
This was my first full-length novel by Lexi Davis after only reading her novellas, and I really enjoyed seeing her tackle a larger story. I also hadn’t read Pretty Vicious first, but that actually worked in my favor since Pretty Ruthless is a prequel. You can absolutely read this one first without feeling lost.
The slower pacing took a little getting used to compared to Lexi’s novellas, but once I settled into the story and connected with the characters, I was hooked.
This is Carr and Becky’s story, with Carr being Carrson’s father, the MMC from Pretty Vicious. Becky is determined to uncover answers and step into Carr’s dangerous world. She’s fearless, relentless, and the perfect match for him.
Carr is a compelling mystery. Raised by a brutal secret society and an even more brutal and vile father, he’s a fascinating character and I can see why Becky wanted to claim him. I hate how rough his childhood was.
I loved that both Carr and Becky are flawed, damaged people who somehow fit together perfectly. Their relationship is messy, emotional, and built on helping each other heal, which made it feel genuine.
The drama is one of this book’s biggest strengths. Secrets, manipulation, power plays, and constant twists kept me invested, and I loved that no one ever felt completely innocent.
The chemistry between Carr and Becky is incredible. The spice is somewhat intense, but what stood out most was how it also became part of Carr’s healing journey as he slowly learned to feel safe with physical touch again.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait to go back and read Pretty Vicious.
Pretty Ruthless by Lexi Davis
4⭐️ | 3.5🌶️
This was my first full-length novel by Lexi Davis after only reading her novellas, and I really enjoyed seeing her tackle a larger story. I also hadn’t read Pretty Vicious first, but that actually worked in my favor since Pretty Ruthless is a prequel. You can absolutely read this one first without feeling lost.
The slower pacing took a little getting used to compared to Lexi’s novellas, but once I settled into the story and connected with the characters, I was hooked.
This is Carr and Becky’s story, with Carr being Carrson’s father, the MMC from Pretty Vicious. Becky is determined to uncover answers and step into Carr’s dangerous world. She’s fearless, relentless, and the perfect match for him.
Carr is a compelling mystery. Raised by a brutal secret society and an even more brutal and vile father, he’s a fascinating character and I can see why Becky wanted to claim him. I hate how rough his childhood was.
I loved that both Carr and Becky are flawed, damaged people who somehow fit together perfectly. Their relationship is messy, emotional, and built on helping each other heal, which made it feel genuine.
The drama is one of this book’s biggest strengths. Secrets, manipulation, power plays, and constant twists kept me invested, and I loved that no one ever felt completely innocent.
The chemistry between Carr and Becky is incredible. The spice is somewhat intense, but what stood out most was how it also became part of Carr’s healing journey as he slowly learned to feel safe with physical touch again.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait to go back and read Pretty Vicious.
May 29, 2026
Rating: Loved it
🖤 Morally Grey
👀 She Stalks Him
📚 Dark Academia
🔥 Obsessive MMC
🫦 Primal Play
🔒 Forced Proximity
🤍 Touch Aversion
💀 Touch Her and Die
🐈 Cat & Mouse
🌬️ Breath Play
🫀 Past Trauma
🕯️ Secret Society
Oh my god…prequel!
I was so excited when this was announced because I desperately needed something to hold me over until book two, and this absolutely delivered. I love a good origin story, and this one did not disappoint.
It’s honestly wild how you can absolutely despise a character in one book and then suddenly feel nothing but empathy for them in the prequel. Carr had my heart cracking open the entire time, and I kept reminding myself, “Nope, we don’t like him.” Unfortunately, I fear that’s no longer 100% true.
And Becky being just as unhinged as Carrson? Perfection. These two are morally grey in the best, most toxic way possible. Becky might look like an easy target, but she’s every bit as hungry for power and control as everyone around her. She isn’t prey, she’s the predator and she proves over and over again that she’ll do whatever it takes to get what she wants.
The letters Becky writes to Remi absolutely wrecked me at times. Watching her slowly fall for Carrson while simultaneously feeling guilty for moving forward from her grief was heartbreaking. I just wanted to hug her through the pages.
And that epilogue?! THAT CLIFFHANGER?! I thought I desperately needed book two before, but apparently I didn’t truly understand the word “desperate” until that final page.
Thank you, Lexi, for the ARC 🖤
🖤 Morally Grey
👀 She Stalks Him
📚 Dark Academia
🔥 Obsessive MMC
🫦 Primal Play
🔒 Forced Proximity
🤍 Touch Aversion
💀 Touch Her and Die
🐈 Cat & Mouse
🌬️ Breath Play
🫀 Past Trauma
🕯️ Secret Society
Oh my god…prequel!
I was so excited when this was announced because I desperately needed something to hold me over until book two, and this absolutely delivered. I love a good origin story, and this one did not disappoint.
It’s honestly wild how you can absolutely despise a character in one book and then suddenly feel nothing but empathy for them in the prequel. Carr had my heart cracking open the entire time, and I kept reminding myself, “Nope, we don’t like him.” Unfortunately, I fear that’s no longer 100% true.
And Becky being just as unhinged as Carrson? Perfection. These two are morally grey in the best, most toxic way possible. Becky might look like an easy target, but she’s every bit as hungry for power and control as everyone around her. She isn’t prey, she’s the predator and she proves over and over again that she’ll do whatever it takes to get what she wants.
The letters Becky writes to Remi absolutely wrecked me at times. Watching her slowly fall for Carrson while simultaneously feeling guilty for moving forward from her grief was heartbreaking. I just wanted to hug her through the pages.
And that epilogue?! THAT CLIFFHANGER?! I thought I desperately needed book two before, but apparently I didn’t truly understand the word “desperate” until that final page.
Thank you, Lexi, for the ARC 🖤
June 8, 2026
★★★★☆ 4 Stars
Thank you to Lexi Davis for providing me with an eARC, and thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for helping make early access possible. As always, this review reflects my honest thoughts.
🖤 Before Pretty Vicious... there was Pretty Ruthless. 🖤
And if you've read Pretty Vicious, you know exactly why this story matters.
Set in 1994, Pretty Ruthless serves as the origin story of Ashford House, The Order, and the complicated legacy that shapes everything we see later in the series. This is Carrson Ashford's story—and Becky Dawson's—and honestly? Lexi gave me something I wasn't expecting:
Sympathy for Carrson's dad.
Because let me tell you... after reading Pretty Vicious, I was perfectly content hating that man. 😂
But hearing his backstory, understanding the pressures surrounding The Order, and seeing the events that helped shape him into who he became added so much depth to the overall series. It doesn't excuse everything, but it definitely complicates things in the best way.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was getting a deeper look into The Order itself. Lexi expands the mythology, politics, and history behind the society in ways that made the entire world feel richer and more layered. This didn't feel like a throwaway prequel—it felt like an important piece of the puzzle.
And Becky?
The girl has guts.
The tension between Becky and Carrson was deliciously chaotic from the start. Watching her refuse to back down when everyone else would have run made for such an entertaining dynamic.
My only real criticism—and this is something I've noticed in a few of Lexi's books—is that some of the sexually inexperienced/virgin character dynamics don't always feel entirely authentic to me. The dialogue and reactions during those moments can occasionally pull me out of the story and make me cringe a little. It's a minor complaint overall, but it stood out enough for me to notice.
That said, this book accomplished exactly what a prequel should do:
✔️ Expanded the world
✔️ Added depth to existing characters
✔️ Made me rethink what I thought I knew
✔️ Left me desperate to see where Lexi goes next
And trust me... there are SO many directions this story could go from here.
🖤 Read if you love:
• Dark academia
• Secret societies
• Morally gray characters
• Family legacies
• Obsession and power dynamics
• "I should hate you but now I understand you" character arcs
Overall: A strong addition to the Ashford universe that adds meaningful depth to the series while leaving readers with even more questions. If you're a fan of Pretty Vicious, you absolutely need to pick this one up.
Thank you to Lexi Davis for providing me with an eARC, and thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for helping make early access possible. As always, this review reflects my honest thoughts.
🖤 Before Pretty Vicious... there was Pretty Ruthless. 🖤
And if you've read Pretty Vicious, you know exactly why this story matters.
Set in 1994, Pretty Ruthless serves as the origin story of Ashford House, The Order, and the complicated legacy that shapes everything we see later in the series. This is Carrson Ashford's story—and Becky Dawson's—and honestly? Lexi gave me something I wasn't expecting:
Sympathy for Carrson's dad.
Because let me tell you... after reading Pretty Vicious, I was perfectly content hating that man. 😂
But hearing his backstory, understanding the pressures surrounding The Order, and seeing the events that helped shape him into who he became added so much depth to the overall series. It doesn't excuse everything, but it definitely complicates things in the best way.
One of my favorite aspects of this book was getting a deeper look into The Order itself. Lexi expands the mythology, politics, and history behind the society in ways that made the entire world feel richer and more layered. This didn't feel like a throwaway prequel—it felt like an important piece of the puzzle.
And Becky?
The girl has guts.
The tension between Becky and Carrson was deliciously chaotic from the start. Watching her refuse to back down when everyone else would have run made for such an entertaining dynamic.
My only real criticism—and this is something I've noticed in a few of Lexi's books—is that some of the sexually inexperienced/virgin character dynamics don't always feel entirely authentic to me. The dialogue and reactions during those moments can occasionally pull me out of the story and make me cringe a little. It's a minor complaint overall, but it stood out enough for me to notice.
That said, this book accomplished exactly what a prequel should do:
✔️ Expanded the world
✔️ Added depth to existing characters
✔️ Made me rethink what I thought I knew
✔️ Left me desperate to see where Lexi goes next
And trust me... there are SO many directions this story could go from here.
🖤 Read if you love:
• Dark academia
• Secret societies
• Morally gray characters
• Family legacies
• Obsession and power dynamics
• "I should hate you but now I understand you" character arcs
Overall: A strong addition to the Ashford universe that adds meaningful depth to the series while leaving readers with even more questions. If you're a fan of Pretty Vicious, you absolutely need to pick this one up.
May 31, 2026
"Love is always a risk. It's the ultimate act of self-sabotage. Handing over your heart and hoping it doesn't get a knife driven into it. Knowing how exposed you are and doing it anyway."
Ahhh, Lexi Davis has served up a delicious dark romance once again.
It was so good to return to The Order! Carrson and Becky... I did not see that coming. I was determined not to like Carrson, thanks to Pretty Vicious. But it crept up on me anyway.
Both Carrson and Becky have lived through things that should never fall on those so young. My heart broke for both of them.
I really hope they get the ending the younger versions of them deserve, once the series ends.
I'm now going to be super impatient waiting for Pretty Savage, the next book in the series. Lexi always leaves her readers wanting more!
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spicy)
- Dark Academia
- Secret Society
- Morally Black MMC
- Obsessive FMC
- Enemies to lovers
- Dual POV
Pretty Ruthless is available now! But if you haven't read Pretty Vicious, start there. And then wait eagerly for Pretty Savage like the rest of us!
Thank you to Lexi Davis for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Ahhh, Lexi Davis has served up a delicious dark romance once again.
It was so good to return to The Order! Carrson and Becky... I did not see that coming. I was determined not to like Carrson, thanks to Pretty Vicious. But it crept up on me anyway.
Both Carrson and Becky have lived through things that should never fall on those so young. My heart broke for both of them.
I really hope they get the ending the younger versions of them deserve, once the series ends.
I'm now going to be super impatient waiting for Pretty Savage, the next book in the series. Lexi always leaves her readers wanting more!
You should read this book if you love:
- Open door romance (spicy)
- Dark Academia
- Secret Society
- Morally Black MMC
- Obsessive FMC
- Enemies to lovers
- Dual POV
Pretty Ruthless is available now! But if you haven't read Pretty Vicious, start there. And then wait eagerly for Pretty Savage like the rest of us!
Thank you to Lexi Davis for the complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
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