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Deceptive Queen
Power is inherited.
Monsters are made.
Larissa Mountbatten has spent years perfecting the art of deception.
At Duxbury Academy, where billionaire heirs inherit empires before they inherit adulthood, appearances are everything—and Larissa has mastered them all. She rules the elite with calculated precision, hides a past no one can uncover, and refuses to let anyone see the cracks beneath her carefully crafted crown.
Until Viktor Yaroslav returns.
After disappearing without explanation four years ago, the heir to one of Russia's most feared empires walks back into Duxbury with a single glance that threatens everything Larissa has buried. He watches too closely. He knows too much. And with every passing day, it becomes impossible to tell whether he's trying to destroy her… or save her.
But when ghosts from Larissa's past begin resurfacing, a deadly game of lies, obsession, and betrayal unfolds—one that neither crowns nor kingdoms can survive.
Monsters are made.
Larissa Mountbatten has spent years perfecting the art of deception.
At Duxbury Academy, where billionaire heirs inherit empires before they inherit adulthood, appearances are everything—and Larissa has mastered them all. She rules the elite with calculated precision, hides a past no one can uncover, and refuses to let anyone see the cracks beneath her carefully crafted crown.
Until Viktor Yaroslav returns.
After disappearing without explanation four years ago, the heir to one of Russia's most feared empires walks back into Duxbury with a single glance that threatens everything Larissa has buried. He watches too closely. He knows too much. And with every passing day, it becomes impossible to tell whether he's trying to destroy her… or save her.
But when ghosts from Larissa's past begin resurfacing, a deadly game of lies, obsession, and betrayal unfolds—one that neither crowns nor kingdoms can survive.
- GenresRomance
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2026
About the author
Aroona Abbas
4 books53 followersAroona Abbas believes every plot twist deserves a cup of chai and a little drama. When she’s not sketching or reading manhwas, she’s probably living as a character in a fantasy kingdom, a dystopian paradise, or somewhere deep in Regency-era drama. She loves creating new worlds and writing characters readers can truly love (or love to hate). Sketching may be her first passion—but writing is the one that keeps her up at night.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 15, 2026
3.25!
A quick thank you to the author Aroona Abbas for sharing an ARC of this book with me!
A very easy and simple read! The writing could use more edge, but it was pretty decent and quick paced (thank you for that). Tbf, its giving a revamp effort on gossip girl ngl. At least in the beginning. I felt like i was reading bits of mean girls, gossip girls and the twisted series.
The story is about Larissa Grosvenor Mountbatten—The golden girl of Duxbury, perfect life, loyal friends, a boyfriend who worships her, her carefully constructed image of a queen who rules the hallway is threatened by the return of Viktor Aleksandrovich Yaroslav, who challenges her in every way possible.
The Larissa-Vikor thing was…iffy. The whole Fallon thing was seemed to be dismissed and ruled out solely to focus on some sexual tension, like, what even was fallon doing there when the whole tension to some actual plot started due to her entrance? The ending seemed extremely rushed. Its like the problems kept coming in and the story just kept moving on to different settings.
““You two are so cringe.” Irene announces.” same cause Benjamin what the hell.
Im sorry but Larissa is MESSED up, like girl, get a grip. Reading about Larissa after naive little Evangeline Fox, gotta say, im baffled.
“Ghosts don’t get to live twice.” I murmur.
My hands move. They find her neck. And then they tighten. Get some fucking help Larissa, you’re worse than Georgina Sparks for christ’s sake.
I would love to read more about Aina’s and Emiliano’s dynamic!
A quick thank you to the author Aroona Abbas for sharing an ARC of this book with me!
A very easy and simple read! The writing could use more edge, but it was pretty decent and quick paced (thank you for that). Tbf, its giving a revamp effort on gossip girl ngl. At least in the beginning. I felt like i was reading bits of mean girls, gossip girls and the twisted series.
The story is about Larissa Grosvenor Mountbatten—The golden girl of Duxbury, perfect life, loyal friends, a boyfriend who worships her, her carefully constructed image of a queen who rules the hallway is threatened by the return of Viktor Aleksandrovich Yaroslav, who challenges her in every way possible.
The Larissa-Vikor thing was…iffy. The whole Fallon thing was seemed to be dismissed and ruled out solely to focus on some sexual tension, like, what even was fallon doing there when the whole tension to some actual plot started due to her entrance? The ending seemed extremely rushed. Its like the problems kept coming in and the story just kept moving on to different settings.
““You two are so cringe.” Irene announces.” same cause Benjamin what the hell.
Im sorry but Larissa is MESSED up, like girl, get a grip. Reading about Larissa after naive little Evangeline Fox, gotta say, im baffled.
“Ghosts don’t get to live twice.” I murmur.
My hands move. They find her neck. And then they tighten. Get some fucking help Larissa, you’re worse than Georgina Sparks for christ’s sake.
I would love to read more about Aina’s and Emiliano’s dynamic!
June 8, 2026
The story is amazing, I love how well written it is and how full of tension. I love the spicy scenes and the rapid pace of the story. I could barely put this book down; it had me absorbed in it. I do have to admit that it took me like 10-15 pages to get into the rhythm of the story, but once I did, I could not stop. I loved the tension, the drama, the Gossip Girl kind of vibes. I loved all the characters, and I would actually love to read about all of them in the same detail. I liked the dynamic between Larissa and Viktor, and my second favourite couple dymanic vas between Aina and Emiliano. I can't wait to get my hands on the next book in this series. Thank you to the author ❤️❤️❤️
August 16, 2026
A fast-paced and addictive read! I was especially hooked by the tension and chemistry between Larissa and Viktor. I loved their conversations and the way they challenge each other.
Larissa was definitely a highlight for me. I love seeing powerful female characters who are trying to maintain their position while dealing with everything around them.
My only issue was the pacing. At some points, it felt like the story was rushing to get to the next scene, and the ending came so suddenly that I was like, wait… we're already at the ending? I wanted a little more depth and more time with certain scenes and characters.
Still, I really enjoyed it and I'm definitely looking forward to the next part of Larissa and Viktor's story “I just hope the author adds a little more depth to the story in the next part." And Aina and Emiliano's chemistry has already caught my attention and I hope the author gives us more of their story in the next part.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Larissa was definitely a highlight for me. I love seeing powerful female characters who are trying to maintain their position while dealing with everything around them.
My only issue was the pacing. At some points, it felt like the story was rushing to get to the next scene, and the ending came so suddenly that I was like, wait… we're already at the ending? I wanted a little more depth and more time with certain scenes and characters.
Still, I really enjoyed it and I'm definitely looking forward to the next part of Larissa and Viktor's story “I just hope the author adds a little more depth to the story in the next part." And Aina and Emiliano's chemistry has already caught my attention and I hope the author gives us more of their story in the next part.
ARC received from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
A very fun read! The writing could've used a little more edge, but it was enjoyable, quick-paced, and kept me turning the pages. Thank you to the author for letting me read & review this!❤️
Honestly, it gave me Gossip Girl vibes, just with more money, more drama, and set in Switzerland. Some parts of the story felt rushed and some plot points overlooked, but I really enjoyed the tension and chemistry between Larissa and Viktor (Poor Ben lol). I just wish there had been a bit more consistency in their dynamic toward the end. The constant push-and-pull started to feel repetitive after a while.
Larissa was actually my favorite part of the book. She was completely unhinged at times, but I loved being inside her head and reading her inner monologue.
My biggest issue was the ending. It felt incredibly rushed. I looked at my page count and genuinely thought, "Wait... how is this ending already?" There were several plot points that could've benefited from more development before wrapping up.
That being said, I really enjoyed the world the author created and I'm definitely interested in continuing the series. I'm hoping to see a deeper connection between Viktor and Larissa in book two, and I'd also love more of Bastardino, I mean, Emiliano and Aina.
One final side note that drove me crazy: if you're going to include luxury cars throughout the story and make the FMC host underground races, please do some more research. Ferrari, Porsche, Bugatti, Pagani... and then suddenly a Lamborghini with back seats? Unless Beatrice was driving a Urus (which she clearly wasn't), Lamborghini doesn't make modern supercars with back seats. As a car girl, that detail annoyed me way more than it should have and honestly pulled me out of the story every time I thought about it. 😂
Overall, an entertaining read with lots of potential, and I'll definitely be picking up book two!
A very fun read! The writing could've used a little more edge, but it was enjoyable, quick-paced, and kept me turning the pages. Thank you to the author for letting me read & review this!❤️
Honestly, it gave me Gossip Girl vibes, just with more money, more drama, and set in Switzerland. Some parts of the story felt rushed and some plot points overlooked, but I really enjoyed the tension and chemistry between Larissa and Viktor (Poor Ben lol). I just wish there had been a bit more consistency in their dynamic toward the end. The constant push-and-pull started to feel repetitive after a while.
Larissa was actually my favorite part of the book. She was completely unhinged at times, but I loved being inside her head and reading her inner monologue.
My biggest issue was the ending. It felt incredibly rushed. I looked at my page count and genuinely thought, "Wait... how is this ending already?" There were several plot points that could've benefited from more development before wrapping up.
That being said, I really enjoyed the world the author created and I'm definitely interested in continuing the series. I'm hoping to see a deeper connection between Viktor and Larissa in book two, and I'd also love more of Bastardino, I mean, Emiliano and Aina.
One final side note that drove me crazy: if you're going to include luxury cars throughout the story and make the FMC host underground races, please do some more research. Ferrari, Porsche, Bugatti, Pagani... and then suddenly a Lamborghini with back seats? Unless Beatrice was driving a Urus (which she clearly wasn't), Lamborghini doesn't make modern supercars with back seats. As a car girl, that detail annoyed me way more than it should have and honestly pulled me out of the story every time I thought about it. 😂
Overall, an entertaining read with lots of potential, and I'll definitely be picking up book two!
July 7, 2026
I really wanted to love this one because the premise immediately caught my attention, but unfortunately it just wasn’t the right fit for me.
The strongest part of the story was definitely the mystery surrounding Larissa. The dreams, the missing pieces of her past, and slowly trying to work out what Viktor knows kept me turning the pages. I also really enjoyed the friendship dynamic between the girls, they were fun, supportive, and brought some much needed humour to the story.
If you enjoy elite boarding schools, privileged students, high society drama and strong Gossip Girl vibes, this will probably be right up your alley.
It’s also a very easy book to read.
Where it lost me was the emotional connection. I never quite clicked with the characters, so it was hard to become invested in what was happening.
The opening introduces a lot of characters and influential families all at once, and I found myself constantly trying to remember who everyone was rather than settling into the story.
The secret race-car driver storyline also felt a little out of place for me. Instead of adding intrigue, it pulled me out of the story, and I struggled to fully buy into that part of Larissa’s character.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad book, it simply wasn’t my kind of setting or story. I can absolutely see why readers who love glamorous dark academia, wealthy elites, mystery and slow-burning secrets would enjoy it much more than I did.
While it wasn’t for me, I appreciate the opportunity to read an ARC and I’m grateful to the author for trusting readers with an early copy.
The strongest part of the story was definitely the mystery surrounding Larissa. The dreams, the missing pieces of her past, and slowly trying to work out what Viktor knows kept me turning the pages. I also really enjoyed the friendship dynamic between the girls, they were fun, supportive, and brought some much needed humour to the story.
If you enjoy elite boarding schools, privileged students, high society drama and strong Gossip Girl vibes, this will probably be right up your alley.
It’s also a very easy book to read.
Where it lost me was the emotional connection. I never quite clicked with the characters, so it was hard to become invested in what was happening.
The opening introduces a lot of characters and influential families all at once, and I found myself constantly trying to remember who everyone was rather than settling into the story.
The secret race-car driver storyline also felt a little out of place for me. Instead of adding intrigue, it pulled me out of the story, and I struggled to fully buy into that part of Larissa’s character.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad book, it simply wasn’t my kind of setting or story. I can absolutely see why readers who love glamorous dark academia, wealthy elites, mystery and slow-burning secrets would enjoy it much more than I did.
While it wasn’t for me, I appreciate the opportunity to read an ARC and I’m grateful to the author for trusting readers with an early copy.
June 7, 2026
What a ride, it had it's ups, it's downs, twists and turns. I devoured this story, it gets you hooked almost immediately. 4/5
It features Larissa the Queen of her school, calm, polished and calculated. Everything starts to unravel when Viktor gets anywhere near her. Her mask falters, her composition starts to crumble. She is always focused on being in control, but he takes that away from her.
There's a few things that I loved, and a few things that I didn't.
- I loved the feel of the overall story, a very prestigious atmosphere and almost nostalgic in a way. It gave a very Mean Girls kind of vibe, reminiscent of high-school clicks.
- It was incredibly descriptive, each scene in the story made you feel like you were right there with the characters.
- The amount of spice that was there was steamy!
- The story seemed very fast paced, like there is always something going on under the surface...
- It keeps you guessing, on your toes while a certain Queen's past is slowly reveled.
A couple things I didn't like
- Sometimes the story seemed a little dis-jointed. Certain things didn't quite line-up.
- It pains me to say it but the relationship between Larissa and Viktor doesn't seem well put together. It didn't quite depict the enemies to lovers trope quite right.
- The ending...
Overall, I really enjoyed the ride, a quick easy read.
It features Larissa the Queen of her school, calm, polished and calculated. Everything starts to unravel when Viktor gets anywhere near her. Her mask falters, her composition starts to crumble. She is always focused on being in control, but he takes that away from her.
There's a few things that I loved, and a few things that I didn't.
- I loved the feel of the overall story, a very prestigious atmosphere and almost nostalgic in a way. It gave a very Mean Girls kind of vibe, reminiscent of high-school clicks.
- It was incredibly descriptive, each scene in the story made you feel like you were right there with the characters.
- The amount of spice that was there was steamy!
- The story seemed very fast paced, like there is always something going on under the surface...
- It keeps you guessing, on your toes while a certain Queen's past is slowly reveled.
A couple things I didn't like
- Sometimes the story seemed a little dis-jointed. Certain things didn't quite line-up.
- It pains me to say it but the relationship between Larissa and Viktor doesn't seem well put together. It didn't quite depict the enemies to lovers trope quite right.
- The ending...
Overall, I really enjoyed the ride, a quick easy read.
June 9, 2026
The best dark romance ever. Even thinking about comparing this to K M Moronova's is impossible to do.
Did Not Finish
June 20, 2026DNF it after chapter 2.Gonna read it after my exam
August 14, 2026
This feels like it would be a natural fit for fans of Rina Kent or more general dark academia vibes. Dynamic FMC brimming with agency and competence grapples with skeletons in her closet. Mysterious MMC with an axe to grind and inscrutable motivations. Slow reveals
Abbas clearly has a very descriptively rich way of painting scenes to complement the action in any given moment. I appreciated her literary flourishes, with subtly clever use of zeugma such as "students draped in designer and arrogance..." I think her writing style might lend itself well to period pieces, which is why I plan on trying A Scandalous Venture in the near future.
I appreciate how much page space Abbas dedicated to the relationships surrounding the FMC other than romantic prospects, it made the world feel dynamic. Overall, While I think this work does a good job laying foundations for future pairs to be explored in sequels or subsequent series installments, I do think some of the exposition feels slightly inorganic. I am very interested and love the banter between Aina and Emiliano, presumably they will get a book in the future, but their introduction threw me since, these people who have presumably known each other for years are explaining to each other what each other’s backstory is just feels a little artificial.
Thanks to the author for a courtesy copy in consideration for an offer to write an honest review.
Abbas clearly has a very descriptively rich way of painting scenes to complement the action in any given moment. I appreciated her literary flourishes, with subtly clever use of zeugma such as "students draped in designer and arrogance..." I think her writing style might lend itself well to period pieces, which is why I plan on trying A Scandalous Venture in the near future.
I appreciate how much page space Abbas dedicated to the relationships surrounding the FMC other than romantic prospects, it made the world feel dynamic. Overall, While I think this work does a good job laying foundations for future pairs to be explored in sequels or subsequent series installments, I do think some of the exposition feels slightly inorganic. I am very interested and love the banter between Aina and Emiliano, presumably they will get a book in the future, but their introduction threw me since, these people who have presumably known each other for years are explaining to each other what each other’s backstory is just feels a little artificial.
Thanks to the author for a courtesy copy in consideration for an offer to write an honest review.
August 30, 2026
This is for the vibes type of read! A great transition from summer to Fall. Deceptive Queen is a high school drama that is HIGH on the drama. I received an ARC* of this book, and if you are familiar with and liked Elite, Control Z, and My Fault, then you will enjoy this first book of the series. Within the pages, you get a little bit of everything: dark academy, high school rivalries, secrets being revealed, eye popping steamy scenes, street racing, and the pacing of a thriller that will leave you frantically turning the pages to figure out what is happening.
Is it cringe? Are there plot holes? Yes, but that’s the genre, and Aroona Abbas definitely delivers a fast-paced, guilty pleasure, fun, and easy read. So if you are looking for a new book that will have you rolling your eyes but still wanting more, this is for you. Looking forward to the next in the series!
*Thank you to the author for letting me dive into this addicting world! Opinions are entirely my own.
Is it cringe? Are there plot holes? Yes, but that’s the genre, and Aroona Abbas definitely delivers a fast-paced, guilty pleasure, fun, and easy read. So if you are looking for a new book that will have you rolling your eyes but still wanting more, this is for you. Looking forward to the next in the series!
*Thank you to the author for letting me dive into this addicting world! Opinions are entirely my own.
August 17, 2026
This was so good! For me, the beginning was a little slow, so I had a harder time focusing on the book. Around chapter 4 is when is captured me full attention. I couldn’t put it down! I was so invested on wondering what was going to happen next. I love the characters and the dynamic that they had. The cliffhanger at the end has me hooked! I am really looking forward to book 2!
Thank you Aroona Abbas for sending me the book!
Thank you Aroona Abbas for sending me the book!
September 12, 2026
I read this book in an afternoon. I just could not put it down. I wanted to know the backstory Larissa had with Viktor and Fallon. I also wanted to find out what occurred during her childhood years that caused her to become uneasy.
I won't list any spoilers, but I can't wait to read the next book in the series. 😁
Thank you for the opportunity for me to review this book.
I won't list any spoilers, but I can't wait to read the next book in the series. 😁
Thank you for the opportunity for me to review this book.
September 4, 2026
At the beginning I was confused on what was going on. But after the first two chapters I finally understood it. This is a very good book, I like the banter and the tension between Larissa and viktor.
The only think I have a problem with is the cheating trope. It’s just not for me, but this is the first book I have read with this trope. Over all I loved the action.
The only think I have a problem with is the cheating trope. It’s just not for me, but this is the first book I have read with this trope. Over all I loved the action.
June 17, 2026
I went into The Deceptive Queen expecting secrets, privilege, and maybe a little chaos. What I got was Fast & Furious meets Gossip Girl with a psychological thriller twist.
Larissa is the queen bee of an elite private school, but beneath the polished exterior she's leading an underground racing team, hiding dangerous secrets from her past, and trying to maintain the carefully curated image everyone expects from her. Enter Viktor, the boy who knows more about Larissa than anyone else and isn't afraid to bulldoze his way back into her life.
This book was incredibly ambitious. Underground racing, elite prep school drama, morally messy relationships, childhood secrets, mystery, and high-stakes suspense all collide in one story. There were moments when I genuinely couldn't put it down.
That said, the execution didn't always work for me. Some of the reveals came so late that I found myself confused rather than intrigued, and certain plot twists felt disconnected from the story I thought I was reading. I could see exactly what the author was trying to accomplish, but I wish the breadcrumbs had been placed a little more intentionally along the way.
I also struggled with the cheating element. As someone who personally dislikes cheating tropes, I found myself sympathizing with Benjamin more than I expected. It didn't ruin the story for me, but it definitely shaped my experience.
Overall, The Deceptive Queen wasn't a bad book by any means. In fact, I found it entertaining, addictive in places, and full of interesting ideas. It just didn't always stick the landing for me.
If you enjoy privileged teens with too much power, underground racing, morally complicated characters, and secrets that threaten to destroy carefully crafted personas, this one might be worth adding to your TBR.
Larissa is the queen bee of an elite private school, but beneath the polished exterior she's leading an underground racing team, hiding dangerous secrets from her past, and trying to maintain the carefully curated image everyone expects from her. Enter Viktor, the boy who knows more about Larissa than anyone else and isn't afraid to bulldoze his way back into her life.
This book was incredibly ambitious. Underground racing, elite prep school drama, morally messy relationships, childhood secrets, mystery, and high-stakes suspense all collide in one story. There were moments when I genuinely couldn't put it down.
That said, the execution didn't always work for me. Some of the reveals came so late that I found myself confused rather than intrigued, and certain plot twists felt disconnected from the story I thought I was reading. I could see exactly what the author was trying to accomplish, but I wish the breadcrumbs had been placed a little more intentionally along the way.
I also struggled with the cheating element. As someone who personally dislikes cheating tropes, I found myself sympathizing with Benjamin more than I expected. It didn't ruin the story for me, but it definitely shaped my experience.
Overall, The Deceptive Queen wasn't a bad book by any means. In fact, I found it entertaining, addictive in places, and full of interesting ideas. It just didn't always stick the landing for me.
If you enjoy privileged teens with too much power, underground racing, morally complicated characters, and secrets that threaten to destroy carefully crafted personas, this one might be worth adding to your TBR.
August 18, 2026
This book was shocking, clever, dark, and, in many ways, outstanding. The book continues to draw you in with every page. At first, there are so many secrets and lies that none of it makes sense. I just kept on reading so I could see where each piece of this puzzle would fit. And there were many pieces.
We start this book at a party for students who attend a boarding school called Duxbury Private Academy. The main character, Larissa Grosvenor Mountbatten, is the popular girl that everyone wishes to be. She comes from a wealthy family with more authority than most students' parents have. She is attending the party with her three best friends and boyfriend Ben. When Larissa looks up at the balcony, she sees Viktor Yaroslav, the boy who went away for four years.
Throughout the book, we learn that Larissa is not the pristine, innocent girl we thought she was at first glance. She has a past that Viktor brought back with him, and things start to unravel as her perfectly wrapped-up past slips through the cracks. These morally grey characters have secrets that cause twists, surprises, and shocking outcomes.
The romance- Since this is a Dark Romance, we have some very questionable events that happen. Some of this includes dub-con/non-con, somnophilia (sexual activities while someone is unconscious), gaslighting(side character affected), and graphic violence. These are only a few of the major ones that could trigger someone. This type of romance is not for everyone. But, like every great Dark Romance, the banter is perfect. She'll say something, he'll say something smart, she'll say something snarky back, and it just goes in circles. It's entertaining, dirty, crazy, and just what I like. Viktor wants her to want him, and Larissa wants Viktor to leave her alone until she doesn't. I truly loved them together. I didn't like the dub-con/non-con because, to me, we didn't need it. I could see why others would argue it was necessary so their relationship would grow the way it did, but it just made Viktor seem gross. If Aroona changed it to coercion and Larissa consented to the things he did to her, I would absolutely love Viktor. Viktor is genuinely the man she needs. Someone who knows the real her, sees her, understands her, doesn't hold her back, and doesn't make her feel ashamed. But I wish we got him to respect her boundaries and know when to back off.
The friendship- Larissa's friends, Irene, Aina, and Eliana, are beautiful, outstanding, true friends. We learn Larissa has a shady past, and most people would run away from it. But not her friends. They stay by her even though they know something is either wrong or that she is a complete psychopath. They support her, not the guy they want her with. Larissa has many masks she puts on for public, but when they become too heavy to wear, her best friends are right there when those masks fall, and her composure breaks. This includes Viktor's friends and Ben's friends. They all support each other, even knowing them at their worst, Viktor and Larissa especially.
The secrets- You have no idea what this book is gonna be about until the very end, and that ends on a cliffhanger. They draw you in and keep you invested the whole time. Towards the beginning, new secrets are revealed almost every chapter. It almost seems too much until each secret starts to fit into place and everything makes more and more sense. The cliffhanger was phenomenal. Usually when authors use this kind of ending, they add more commentary between the two characters and have some explanation, but we didn't get that. If anything, it just made this book better. I'm still not sure what the truth is about what happened or why Larissa is so terrified of this character. We only received about two pieces of information that are brushed off almost immediately after they happen, making this moment so crazy. It was unexpected but not out of the blue. You anticipate that something like this would happen, but had no idea it would be at the very end, making it thrilling to read.
The violence- There are some violent scenes that I did not see coming. A few seemed random until you continued the book and understood the characters and their actions. One of my personal favorite fight scenes, really the only one, was in the art room. With characters like Viktor and Ben, they are bound to disagree, especially since Larissa is in a relationship with Ben and a situationship with Viktor. Ben can be very jealous, and the inevitable happened: he and Viktor got into a fight. It was funny but adrenaline-pumping. Many more scenes like this have brief comedic relief, but it is still an intense situation.
At the end of the day, this book was a solid Dark Romance. We have darker themes of dub-con/non-con, attempted murder, gaslighting, and much more. Larissa and Viktor's banter is just the type I like; feisty and steamy. The romance isn't the star of the show, but the mystery and secrets are. It's a perfect mix of suspense and thrill.
Warning: There is only one book out in the series. If you don't want to start an incomplete series, I would consider reading Aroona Abbas's other standalones. These are "A Scandalous Adventure" and "A Price of a Letter" (releases on 1 January, 2027).
We start this book at a party for students who attend a boarding school called Duxbury Private Academy. The main character, Larissa Grosvenor Mountbatten, is the popular girl that everyone wishes to be. She comes from a wealthy family with more authority than most students' parents have. She is attending the party with her three best friends and boyfriend Ben. When Larissa looks up at the balcony, she sees Viktor Yaroslav, the boy who went away for four years.
Throughout the book, we learn that Larissa is not the pristine, innocent girl we thought she was at first glance. She has a past that Viktor brought back with him, and things start to unravel as her perfectly wrapped-up past slips through the cracks. These morally grey characters have secrets that cause twists, surprises, and shocking outcomes.
The romance- Since this is a Dark Romance, we have some very questionable events that happen. Some of this includes dub-con/non-con, somnophilia (sexual activities while someone is unconscious), gaslighting(side character affected), and graphic violence. These are only a few of the major ones that could trigger someone. This type of romance is not for everyone. But, like every great Dark Romance, the banter is perfect. She'll say something, he'll say something smart, she'll say something snarky back, and it just goes in circles. It's entertaining, dirty, crazy, and just what I like. Viktor wants her to want him, and Larissa wants Viktor to leave her alone until she doesn't. I truly loved them together. I didn't like the dub-con/non-con because, to me, we didn't need it. I could see why others would argue it was necessary so their relationship would grow the way it did, but it just made Viktor seem gross. If Aroona changed it to coercion and Larissa consented to the things he did to her, I would absolutely love Viktor. Viktor is genuinely the man she needs. Someone who knows the real her, sees her, understands her, doesn't hold her back, and doesn't make her feel ashamed. But I wish we got him to respect her boundaries and know when to back off.
The friendship- Larissa's friends, Irene, Aina, and Eliana, are beautiful, outstanding, true friends. We learn Larissa has a shady past, and most people would run away from it. But not her friends. They stay by her even though they know something is either wrong or that she is a complete psychopath. They support her, not the guy they want her with. Larissa has many masks she puts on for public, but when they become too heavy to wear, her best friends are right there when those masks fall, and her composure breaks. This includes Viktor's friends and Ben's friends. They all support each other, even knowing them at their worst, Viktor and Larissa especially.
The secrets- You have no idea what this book is gonna be about until the very end, and that ends on a cliffhanger. They draw you in and keep you invested the whole time. Towards the beginning, new secrets are revealed almost every chapter. It almost seems too much until each secret starts to fit into place and everything makes more and more sense. The cliffhanger was phenomenal. Usually when authors use this kind of ending, they add more commentary between the two characters and have some explanation, but we didn't get that. If anything, it just made this book better. I'm still not sure what the truth is about what happened or why Larissa is so terrified of this character. We only received about two pieces of information that are brushed off almost immediately after they happen, making this moment so crazy. It was unexpected but not out of the blue. You anticipate that something like this would happen, but had no idea it would be at the very end, making it thrilling to read.
The violence- There are some violent scenes that I did not see coming. A few seemed random until you continued the book and understood the characters and their actions. One of my personal favorite fight scenes, really the only one, was in the art room. With characters like Viktor and Ben, they are bound to disagree, especially since Larissa is in a relationship with Ben and a situationship with Viktor. Ben can be very jealous, and the inevitable happened: he and Viktor got into a fight. It was funny but adrenaline-pumping. Many more scenes like this have brief comedic relief, but it is still an intense situation.
At the end of the day, this book was a solid Dark Romance. We have darker themes of dub-con/non-con, attempted murder, gaslighting, and much more. Larissa and Viktor's banter is just the type I like; feisty and steamy. The romance isn't the star of the show, but the mystery and secrets are. It's a perfect mix of suspense and thrill.
Warning: There is only one book out in the series. If you don't want to start an incomplete series, I would consider reading Aroona Abbas's other standalones. These are "A Scandalous Adventure" and "A Price of a Letter" (releases on 1 January, 2027).
August 20, 2026
Deceptive Queen -minor spoilers until 1-2 way through
Intro
The chapter links dont work, but the intro to the FMC goes well. We meet her, a few friends, another (male) clique, her BF and the MMC
Forced Proximity
FMC& MMC appointed school representatives (but by chapter 29 there’s still no actual school representative events of note)
We get a peek at the MMC's depth's, the FMC's loyalty and friendship. Even when the overall thought aimed at him is negative though, its underlying description is possitive, complementary.
Ch. 11-20
Whole spending time with her bf, FMC is separated and MMC (with absolutely NO warning) fingers her while her bf is on the phone to her. Does she report the assault? Tell her bf? No, because she foze up when HE tried to initiate sex, but assault is ok to cover up? On the other hand, she does self-isolate and shut down, typical survivor behavior. Then... 180°! She decides to get revenge. Except he also brought her past to catch up to her. Who she thought she killed was actually in a coma and has amnesia (soap-opera), and at a party she decides to re-kill her victim.
There's a lot of illogical decisions for someone s enamoured with a spotless/immaculate reputation. There's also absolutely no thought process explaining her behavior.
Ch 20-29
OK, medication? we're going to blame everything on mental illness apparently. At least one friend has the good sense to tell an adult everything.
Ch. 21 p. 150 'the cloak read' → 'the clock read'
Ch 25 p 176 'so I figured out why not...' → 'so I figured why not take you out today 'or' so I figured, why don't I take you out to day '
Ch 29 p 202 - Did Not/Will Not Finish
Whole this story starts with a strong premise: one that many Young Adult authors use and I've enjoyed before, this starts strong but did not maintain. I went in with few expectations.
Would the MMC blackmail her? Blackmail her family? Threaten her existing relationship?
I wasn't expecting S.A.
I'm no stranger to dubious consent in stories, especially Dark Romance. It took me a while to articulate how this story presented differently enough that I didn't enjoy it though, in fact actively disliked it.
Where we get exposition on the MC's feelings towards her existing relationship, her family, friends, car, and the girl she attempted to murder, at no point does she ever think positively about her experiences with the MMC. Her thoughts cycle between 'I hate him! 'how can I destroy him?' and 'why is he doing this? 'To answer the last question, apparently she ignored him-according to his own words.
I did give this story a second chance after their initial sexual encounter. Perhaps she would warm up to him? No.
While she rebuffs her actual boyfrien, even admitting to a friend she's a virgin, she doesn't even threaten retaliation. When her boyfriend is assertive in his amourous intent, she physically distances them, thinking of it as controlling and seeming to detest it. When the MMC does far more than fervently kiss her (like her boyfriend), she simply stands there.
She goes from a dominating, social personality to indecisive or angry whenever he's around. Her established reputation would suggest this is unusual behavior, but no real clarification is given as to how or why this change occurs. Her behavior is at one point rationalized by a friend asking if she'd taken her medication implying psychiatric needs. While I agree that dialogue between friend needn't rehash what two friends already know, there's enough internal rationalization, monologue and memories that some explanation could've been given. Instead the reader is left with the range idea she's been labeled some form of 'crazy' and that's it.
I am giving this 2 stars because while I didn’t enjoy the FMC & MMC interacting AT ALL, the interactions between other characters (excluding her interactions with her BF) and overall idea of the story is good. The premise is something I typically enjoy, and ignoring the repeated SA, I was able to get about 1/2 through before DNF-ing.
Intro
The chapter links dont work, but the intro to the FMC goes well. We meet her, a few friends, another (male) clique, her BF and the MMC
Forced Proximity
FMC& MMC appointed school representatives (but by chapter 29 there’s still no actual school representative events of note)
We get a peek at the MMC's depth's, the FMC's loyalty and friendship. Even when the overall thought aimed at him is negative though, its underlying description is possitive, complementary.
Ch. 11-20
Whole spending time with her bf, FMC is separated and MMC (with absolutely NO warning) fingers her while her bf is on the phone to her. Does she report the assault? Tell her bf? No, because she foze up when HE tried to initiate sex, but assault is ok to cover up? On the other hand, she does self-isolate and shut down, typical survivor behavior. Then... 180°! She decides to get revenge. Except he also brought her past to catch up to her. Who she thought she killed was actually in a coma and has amnesia (soap-opera), and at a party she decides to re-kill her victim.
There's a lot of illogical decisions for someone s enamoured with a spotless/immaculate reputation. There's also absolutely no thought process explaining her behavior.
Ch 20-29
OK, medication? we're going to blame everything on mental illness apparently. At least one friend has the good sense to tell an adult everything.
Ch. 21 p. 150 'the cloak read' → 'the clock read'
Ch 25 p 176 'so I figured out why not...' → 'so I figured why not take you out today 'or' so I figured, why don't I take you out to day '
Ch 29 p 202 - Did Not/Will Not Finish
Whole this story starts with a strong premise: one that many Young Adult authors use and I've enjoyed before, this starts strong but did not maintain. I went in with few expectations.
Would the MMC blackmail her? Blackmail her family? Threaten her existing relationship?
I wasn't expecting S.A.
I'm no stranger to dubious consent in stories, especially Dark Romance. It took me a while to articulate how this story presented differently enough that I didn't enjoy it though, in fact actively disliked it.
Where we get exposition on the MC's feelings towards her existing relationship, her family, friends, car, and the girl she attempted to murder, at no point does she ever think positively about her experiences with the MMC. Her thoughts cycle between 'I hate him! 'how can I destroy him?' and 'why is he doing this? 'To answer the last question, apparently she ignored him-according to his own words.
I did give this story a second chance after their initial sexual encounter. Perhaps she would warm up to him? No.
While she rebuffs her actual boyfrien, even admitting to a friend she's a virgin, she doesn't even threaten retaliation. When her boyfriend is assertive in his amourous intent, she physically distances them, thinking of it as controlling and seeming to detest it. When the MMC does far more than fervently kiss her (like her boyfriend), she simply stands there.
She goes from a dominating, social personality to indecisive or angry whenever he's around. Her established reputation would suggest this is unusual behavior, but no real clarification is given as to how or why this change occurs. Her behavior is at one point rationalized by a friend asking if she'd taken her medication implying psychiatric needs. While I agree that dialogue between friend needn't rehash what two friends already know, there's enough internal rationalization, monologue and memories that some explanation could've been given. Instead the reader is left with the range idea she's been labeled some form of 'crazy' and that's it.
I am giving this 2 stars because while I didn’t enjoy the FMC & MMC interacting AT ALL, the interactions between other characters (excluding her interactions with her BF) and overall idea of the story is good. The premise is something I typically enjoy, and ignoring the repeated SA, I was able to get about 1/2 through before DNF-ing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2026
A huge thank you to the author for kindly sending me the arc of this book in return for an honest review!!
➵🏎️🥀˚｡𖦹☆°‧⋆
“But if you truly wish for a truce, maybe kneeling in front of me and begging for forgiveness might be where you should start.”
“Begging?” He raises his eyebrows in an amused way, putting the violin aside. “I never thought you were into that sort of stuff, Mountbatten.”
➵🏎️🥀˚｡𖦹☆°‧⋆
The story is about Larissa Grosvenor Mountbatten, a spoiled, perfect, popular heiress with perfect friends, a perfect boyfriend, and a perfect life. At least she thought until Viktor Aleksandrovich Yaroslav returned, the boy in her past. The boy who witnessed her dirtied her hands.
➵🏎️🥀˚｡𖦹☆°‧⋆
I went completely blind reading this book. The first few chapters intrigued me. I found the writing easy to read, and the pace was also great. I had a good time until the plot kind of started to confuse me. I thought the story would be about something that had happened from her past and how she'll go through it and fix it but then it changed. That's not the deal breaker for me though since I was interested.
What ticked me off though is Larissa's personality. Oh my god, I found her SOO insufferable.
'It’s how much it sounds like I’m the one who’s done something wrong.' IT'S BECAUSE YOU ARE. Oh god, I could NOT stand her most of the time. My blood boils every time she does or say something so insignificant. Yes, we get you're the queen or the princess or something😭
Plus, the thing about Larissa and Victor. I don't know what to feel about it. Especially since Larissa's dating Benjamin.
Honestly, Benjamin deserves better.
Overall, i really liked how some of the sentences were written. Not overly dramatic but not overly simple either. And as I mentioned before, the pacing was great.
Again, thanks to the author for sending the copy of this book!! <3
➵🏎️🥀˚｡𖦹☆°‧⋆
“But if you truly wish for a truce, maybe kneeling in front of me and begging for forgiveness might be where you should start.”
“Begging?” He raises his eyebrows in an amused way, putting the violin aside. “I never thought you were into that sort of stuff, Mountbatten.”
➵🏎️🥀˚｡𖦹☆°‧⋆
The story is about Larissa Grosvenor Mountbatten, a spoiled, perfect, popular heiress with perfect friends, a perfect boyfriend, and a perfect life. At least she thought until Viktor Aleksandrovich Yaroslav returned, the boy in her past. The boy who witnessed her dirtied her hands.
➵🏎️🥀˚｡𖦹☆°‧⋆
I went completely blind reading this book. The first few chapters intrigued me. I found the writing easy to read, and the pace was also great. I had a good time until the plot kind of started to confuse me. I thought the story would be about something that had happened from her past and how she'll go through it and fix it but then it changed. That's not the deal breaker for me though since I was interested.
What ticked me off though is Larissa's personality. Oh my god, I found her SOO insufferable.
'It’s how much it sounds like I’m the one who’s done something wrong.' IT'S BECAUSE YOU ARE. Oh god, I could NOT stand her most of the time. My blood boils every time she does or say something so insignificant. Yes, we get you're the queen or the princess or something😭
Plus, the thing about Larissa and Victor. I don't know what to feel about it. Especially since Larissa's dating Benjamin.
Honestly, Benjamin deserves better.
Overall, i really liked how some of the sentences were written. Not overly dramatic but not overly simple either. And as I mentioned before, the pacing was great.
Again, thanks to the author for sending the copy of this book!! <3
July 31, 2026
If you ever wondered what would happen if you threw Gossip Girl into a blender with a high-stakes thriller, Aroona Abbas’s Deceptive Queen is your answer.
One thing this book does incredibly well is keep you entertained. There was never a dull moment. Every chapter revealed another secret or shifted the dynamics between the characters, making it almost impossible to predict what would happen next.
The boarding school setting was one of my favorite parts. It had all the messy friendships, rivalries, and drama that reminded me of Gossip Girl, but with much higher stakes. I genuinely enjoyed watching the relationships evolve, and the friendships were just as compelling as the romance.
My only reason for giving it four stars instead of five is that there was so much happening. Around the middle of the book, I found myself struggling to identify the central plot because there were so many twists and storylines unfolding at once. At times it felt a little overwhelming, and I had to stop and piece everything together.
That said, I was never bored. If anything, the nonstop drama kept me turning the pages because I needed to know how everything would connect.
If you enjoy:
Elite boarding school settings
Secrets and betrayals
Thriller vibes with constant twists
Romance woven into the mystery
Friendships that feel just as important as the romance
I think you'll really enjoy Deceptive Queen.
It was chaotic in the best way: dramatic, addictive, and full of surprises. Even though I occasionally felt lost in the middle, I still had a great time reading it and can't wait to see what happens next.
One thing this book does incredibly well is keep you entertained. There was never a dull moment. Every chapter revealed another secret or shifted the dynamics between the characters, making it almost impossible to predict what would happen next.
The boarding school setting was one of my favorite parts. It had all the messy friendships, rivalries, and drama that reminded me of Gossip Girl, but with much higher stakes. I genuinely enjoyed watching the relationships evolve, and the friendships were just as compelling as the romance.
My only reason for giving it four stars instead of five is that there was so much happening. Around the middle of the book, I found myself struggling to identify the central plot because there were so many twists and storylines unfolding at once. At times it felt a little overwhelming, and I had to stop and piece everything together.
That said, I was never bored. If anything, the nonstop drama kept me turning the pages because I needed to know how everything would connect.
If you enjoy:
Elite boarding school settings
Secrets and betrayals
Thriller vibes with constant twists
Romance woven into the mystery
Friendships that feel just as important as the romance
I think you'll really enjoy Deceptive Queen.
It was chaotic in the best way: dramatic, addictive, and full of surprises. Even though I occasionally felt lost in the middle, I still had a great time reading it and can't wait to see what happens next.
August 10, 2026
—5⭐
Qué pasada. Me ha gustado muchísimo lo caótica que es esta historia. Entre el ambiente de instituto de élite, las familias poderosas, los secretos enterrados y la sensación constante de que absolutamente todo el mundo está ocultando algo, es muy fácil quedarse enganchada. Además, me ha encantado ver cómo esa imagen perfecta de la protagonista empieza a resquebrajarse poco a poco, porque desde el principio se nota que hay muchísimo más detrás de lo que aparenta.
Y el regreso de alguien de su pasado… 👀 No voy a mentir, ahí ya estaba completamente dentro. Me encanta cuando una historia te hace sospechar de todo el mundo y empiezas a montar tus propias teorías sobre quién sabe qué y quién está mintiendo.
Sí que creo que algunas cosas podrían haber tenido un poco más de desarrollo, especialmente ciertos personajes y algunos aspectos de la trama, pero los secretos, las rivalidades y todo el drama consiguieron mantenerme leyendo. No es perfecta, pero sí tiene ese punto de «vale, necesito saber qué está pasando aquí» que hace que una novela sea muy difícil de soltar.
Un comienzo de saga muy entretenido, bastante dramático y lleno de gente que claramente necesita aprender a comunicarse. Y yo, por supuesto, encantada de cotillear. 😭
Qué pasada. Me ha gustado muchísimo lo caótica que es esta historia. Entre el ambiente de instituto de élite, las familias poderosas, los secretos enterrados y la sensación constante de que absolutamente todo el mundo está ocultando algo, es muy fácil quedarse enganchada. Además, me ha encantado ver cómo esa imagen perfecta de la protagonista empieza a resquebrajarse poco a poco, porque desde el principio se nota que hay muchísimo más detrás de lo que aparenta.
Y el regreso de alguien de su pasado… 👀 No voy a mentir, ahí ya estaba completamente dentro. Me encanta cuando una historia te hace sospechar de todo el mundo y empiezas a montar tus propias teorías sobre quién sabe qué y quién está mintiendo.
Sí que creo que algunas cosas podrían haber tenido un poco más de desarrollo, especialmente ciertos personajes y algunos aspectos de la trama, pero los secretos, las rivalidades y todo el drama consiguieron mantenerme leyendo. No es perfecta, pero sí tiene ese punto de «vale, necesito saber qué está pasando aquí» que hace que una novela sea muy difícil de soltar.
Un comienzo de saga muy entretenido, bastante dramático y lleno de gente que claramente necesita aprender a comunicarse. Y yo, por supuesto, encantada de cotillear. 😭
August 25, 2026
This was a good easy read chapters are small so it’s easy to binge read your way through. Larissa is a girl who the world sees as perfect but she has secrets in her past that might just come out with the return of Viktor. This is set in an academy school setting for the rich and wealthy with their own secret racing club.
I did struggle with Larissa character she gave off mean girl vibes and I didn’t really like the way she treated and manipulated Ben to keep her secrets and to keep up her perfect appearance. Viktor loved he knows the real her secrets and all and he’s going to test her.
This book did leave me wanting more as I know there is still somethings to learn from how we ended can’t wait for the next book
I did struggle with Larissa character she gave off mean girl vibes and I didn’t really like the way she treated and manipulated Ben to keep her secrets and to keep up her perfect appearance. Viktor loved he knows the real her secrets and all and he’s going to test her.
This book did leave me wanting more as I know there is still somethings to learn from how we ended can’t wait for the next book
August 18, 2026
so good!
Such a good book. Definitely recommend if you are wanting boarding school and underground racing vibes!! Cannot wait for book 2
Such a good book. Definitely recommend if you are wanting boarding school and underground racing vibes!! Cannot wait for book 2
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