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Scarlett #4

Sophie and the Bad Teacher

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I’ve always had a thing for older men. When Mr. Halifax starts teaching my favorite class, I know I want him.

He’s a good teacher. But I want him to do bad things to me.

I have the perfect plan to make him mine. All I need is for him to watch me dance with someone else in a crowded club. Mr. Halifax will surely claim me once I make him jealous.

But when the mysterious stranger I’m dancing with pulls me close, I’ve never felt so desired in my life. He whispers sinful things in my ear. And his hands on my waist as I lock eyes with Mr. Halifax make me feel alive.

I never saw the stranger’s face. He walks away without even telling me his name.

But he knows me.

And now he keeps texting me. Warning me not to make a mistake by sleeping with Mr. Halifax.

He’s crawled under my skin. I need to know who he is. I’ve been playing with fire and I’m worried my life is about to go up in flames.

I need to unmask the stranger before he has a chance to ruin everything.

508 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2026

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About the author

Ivy Smoak

118 books8,302 followers
Ivy Smoak is the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon #1 bestselling author of The Hunted Series. Her books have sold over 4 million copies worldwide.

When she's not writing, you can find Ivy binge watching too many TV shows, taking long walks, playing outside, and generally refusing to act like an adult. She lives with her husband in Delaware.

Learn more about Ivy on:
Amazon ➜ http://bit.ly/IvySmoakAMZ
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Reader Group ➜ bit.ly/IvySmoakGroup
Join Ivy Smoak's newsletter for a sexy FREE story and exclusive material: https://www.ivysmoak.com/newsletter

Empire High
Untouchable (Empire High, #1) by Ivy Smoak Elite (Empire High, #2) by Ivy Smoak Betrayal (Empire High, #3) by Ivy Smoak Matchmaker (Empire High, #4) by Ivy Smoak Runaway (Empire High, #5) by Ivy Smoak

The Hunted & Light to My Darkness
Temptation (The Hunted, #1) by Ivy Smoak Addiction (The Hunted, #2) by Ivy Smoak Eruption (The Hunted, #3) by Ivy Smoak Devotion (The Hunted, #4) by Ivy Smoak
The Light to My Darkness (The Light to My Darkness #1) by Ivy Smoak A Whirlwind of Color (The Light to My Darkness #2) by Ivy Smoak This Is Love (The Light to My Darkness #3) by Ivy Smoak

Made of Steel
Made of Steel (Made of Steel, #1) by Ivy Smoak Forged in Flames (Made of Steel #2) by Ivy Smoak Carved in Ice (Made of Steel #3) by Ivy Smoak

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
Profile Image for Kaitlyn Calicott.
Author 3 books6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 24, 2026
Sophie has always been the confident, outgoing, and flirty friend. But behind every girl are insecurities. I love getting a glimpse into her head to see what she really thinks about her love life, friends, and family.

This book is full of a mystery mortal, dating app, know it all messages, post it note or feathers, tequila messages, number block, date with a plumber, picky little goblins, feathery celebration, extra tutoring, Christmas figs, red headed harem, Christmas wish, handsy monkeys, party crashers give coal for Christmas, missing teacher, tears don’t stop, so bad at it, green eyed surprise, jelly reveal, sink the tryouts, healing fight, stolen dove, Larry the guard, Caribbean proposal, prom pudding secrets, biggest mistake, fresh start or is it?

Just when Sophie thinks she can get back to normal, Ivy gives us a cliffhanger needing the second book as soon as possible.
570 reviews33 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
September 28, 2026
I absolutely devoured this book! This book was amazing! There are a few good twists and turns that I did not see coming! That's Ivy for ya though! I can NOT wait for book 2! Thank you so very much for the ARC
Profile Image for Jodie.
118 reviews6 followers
October 11, 2026
Received an ARC copy from the author

I’ve been following Ivy and the Hunter’s for 6 years. I feel like I’m part of the family at this point.

I’ve been obsessed with Sophie since the later EH books. So to finally get her story filled me with love.

Her confidence is next level, and to see her go through so much and learn and grow from it was such a heartwarming feeling. The character development is one of the best across the whole hunted universe, and I think it’s the quickest I’ve never devoured one of Ivy’s books because I was just so captivated.

The addition of Larry also sealed its fate as my favourite Hunted book.

I can’t wait for the next one ❤️
3,783 reviews75 followers
October 23, 2026
Another unforgettable and unputdownable addition to one of my absolute favorite series . Ivy nailed once again and delivered a story that will keep you up reading well into the early morning hours. Fun , steamy , emotionally charged , filled with unexpected surprises and moments that will keep you smiling, laughing and cheering so freaking hard . Words cannot express how in love I have fallen with Sophie and Mr Halifax . You just absolutely need to read this book / series , it genuinely is everything.
Profile Image for Liz.
2,439 reviews18 followers
October 16, 2026
Scarlett might’ve finally got her man, but the shenanigans at Empire High are far from over! This time, it’s Sophie’s turn in Sophie and the Bad Teacher, and she’s determined to get the older man she’s had her eye on all school year. The only problem? He’s her teacher and doesn’t seem remotely interested. But Sophie isn’t one to give up easily, especially when she thinks he’s just playing hard to get. Enter stage left Adonis, a green-eyed stranger with a thing for Greek mythology who immediately dubs her Aphrodite. He seems to know an awful lot about her friends and family and has some pretty strong opinions about Mr Halifax. Sophie, of course, isn’t exactly interested in listening. She has a plan, and with her friends behind her, she’s convinced she can make it work.

I’ve always found Sophie a little spoilt, the sort of girl who won’t take no for an answer and doesn’t consider what the consequences might be but while reading I’ve also wondered whether her crush on Mr Halifax was more about having someone safe to practise her flirting skills on, knowing he’d never actually take her seriously. Well, that theory didn’t quite go to plan! Sophie’s journey took a turn I wasn’t expecting, and seeing her heartbroken with her confidence shattered made me feel for her more than I thought I would and I missed her usual sassy, overly confident self, though, and couldn’t help wondering what was waiting for her around the corner.

As with the previous books, the humour really works here. I found myself smiling throughout and laughing out loud more than once. Sophie might make some questionable decisions, but she’s still easy to root for, and watching her schemes unfold is half the fun. There’s more to her than meets the eye, too, and I liked seeing a more vulnerable side to her. The friendships are another big plus. Scarlett might be loved up, but she’s still the ultimate ride-or-die best friend, happy to join Sophie in whatever questionable plan she’s come up with, even when disaster seems almost guaranteed. RJ and Liam are also on top form, providing plenty of laughs and stealing their fair share of scenes. And then there are all the little things that make this series so much fun, from Liam’s not-girlfriend Natalivanka and her broken English to the monkeys, goblins and a cat called Larry. There’s plenty of silliness, but it’s balanced nicely with some genuinely emotional moments as Sophie’s feelings for Mr Halifax turn out to be more complicated than I’d expected. I also loved seeing the next generation building friendships just as strong as those their parents share, with Rob keeping a proud eye on proceedings while James takes things in a rather different direction to certain events by banning Christmas for his own offspring!

Overall, this book is a great mix of humour, friendship, teenage drama and heart with enough going on to keep things entertaining without losing sight of the characters. And just when you think you know where things are heading, the ending throws in a twist that leaves you wanting the next book. Now I just need to know what happens next now that the team are at college and away from Daddy James’ close supervision!
Profile Image for Kim (Chipperbooks) .
1,452 reviews34 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 12, 2026
💫Title: Sophie and the Bad Teacher 📚Series: Stolen Kisses and Bad Decisions: Sophie, Book 1
✍🏻Author: Ivy Smoak
👩‍❤️‍👨Main Characters: Sophie Hunter 🗒️P. 508
📱Book Type Reviewed: E-Book 🗓️Release Date: 10/15/2026
🔹Tropes: Forbidden Romance, Age Gap, Masked Hero, Professor/Student
🌟Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sophie, Sophie, Sophie. You are truly Rob and Daphne’s child.

If you read Scarlett, which you should because it’s amazing, then you know Sophie has a major crush. For two years, Sophie only has heart eyes for Mr. Halifax, her teacher. Now it’s senior year and Sophie has a plan to get Mr. Halifax to notice her. Of course her family/friends are all nearby…Scarlett and Axel, Jacob, Liam and RJ…and like any and all of their plans, when they all get together, things don’t ever go quite as expected.

Now, this wouldn’t be a true Ivy Smoak book without some kind of twist. So, let’s throw in a mystery man for Sophie and Operation Mystery Guy is in effect. Scarlett, Axel, Sophie, and Jacob may be the only seniors, but RJ and Liam are never far away to assist when needed. Senior year is looking like quite the adventure.

For Scarlett, I was Team Axel from day one, and LOVE them together so much! My heart hurts for Jacob…he is such a good friend to all of them. I’m sure Ivy will fix this soon, so I have faith. Being back at Empire High and it’s here we go again. I say it every time but it’s the perfect description; a rollercoaster of emotions. Yes, a lot of this is fun, so entertaining, the family banter hilarious, but also sincere and heartfelt. (Oh goodness...the start of chapter 23…so sweet!) From the beginning, I get swept right in and feel like I have a locker beside Scarlett and Sophie at Empire High. Starting with the parents, I have such an invested interest in all of these characters and I know it sounds silly, but my heart loves these characters and I want them all to find their forever love. Love everything about this!

Series: Stolen Kisses and Bad Decisions

Scarlett:
.5- Scarlett and How It All Began
1- Scarlett and the Kiss Thief
2- Scarlett and the Fake Boyfriend
3- Scarlett and Her Prince Charming

Sophie:
1- Sophie and the Bad Teacher
2- Sophie and the Second Chance (2027)
3- Sophie… (unknown 2027/2028?)

Thank you to #IvySmoak for this book. All reviews and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jennie.
78 reviews4 followers
October 19, 2026
I truly enjoyed this book just as much as I enjoyed the Scarlet series (even if I will always be Team Jacob 😂). The Empire High world will forever live rent-free in my head. Mattlyn always! ❤️

What I loved most about this book was that it felt like genuine Ivy Smoak. She stayed true to her characters and maintained the heart of the world she created. I have always been in love with Rob, and this book gave us the genuine Rob, RJ, and Sophie we know and love, along with little pieces of their dad and mom woven into who they have become.

I absolutely loved the unity between the friends and family throughout this story. They show up for one another in a way that makes you feel the strength of their bonds. (Daphne was obviously not on the same wavelength as the rest of them! 😂)

One of my favorite parts was getting to see a side of Sophie we haven’t really seen in the other books. She has always been so smart, confident, and witty, just like her dad, but this story let us see beneath that strong exterior. We got to see her inner struggles, her vulnerability, and the moments when even she finally broke. There is no doubt in my mind that she will always find a way to pick up the pieces because that’s who Soph is. But seeing her go through so much and allowing us to witness those raw, vulnerable moments made me feel for her in a way I hadn’t before.

I also loved catching little glimpses of Penny and James, as well as Brooklyn and Matt, throughout the story. It brought back so many of the feelings that made me fall in love with these characters and their world in the first place.

This is the Ivy Smoak I love. The characters, the connections, the vulnerability, and the way she brings these people to life on the page reminded me exactly why I fell in love with her books.

I’m so excited to see what comes next in Sophie’s journey. Thank you, Ivy, for putting this story on paper and bringing it to life for your fans. Some fictional worlds stay with you long after you turn the last page, and Empire High will always be one of them. ❤️
Profile Image for Glenda.
290 reviews3 followers
October 15, 2026
Ahhh! OMG, where do I even start?! 😭🐝

Have you ever picked up a book thinking you already know exactly how the story is going to go? Yeah, that was me when I started Sophie and the Bad Teacher. I already knew I was going to love Sophie's story, but what I didn't expect was how emotionally invested and protective I'd become throughout the book. And the twists and surprises Ivy Smoak had waiting for us? AHHH! 🤯

I just finished this book, and now I have to WAIT for book two?! Excuse me?! 😩 This story was everything and MORE. When I tell you I went through a roller coaster of emotions, I mean it! The surprises, the twists, the moments that had me feeling ALL THE THINGS… I genuinely wasn't expecting so much of what happened, and I mean that in the BEST way possible. But honestly, should I even be surprised? Ivy Smoak always finds a way to keep us on our toes!

Sophie and the Bad Teacher is the first book in Sophie's story and the fourth book in the Stolen Kisses and Bad Decisions series. It's also part of a second-generation series featuring the children from one of my absolute FAVORITE series, The Hunted Series. At this point, I've basically made myself an honorary auntie because it feels like I've been watching these kids grow up! Seeing Ivy bring their stories to life and letting us experience this next generation is something I absolutely LOVE.

I cannot wait to see what's in store next for Sophie because after THAT ending, I NEED MORE!

If you love mystery, witty banter, young love, unexpected twists, and emotional roller coasters, you NEED to give Sophie's story a chance. Honestly, do yourself a favor and read the entire series!

And if you really want the FULL experience, go back and pick up The Hunted Series, starting with Temptation. Trust me when I say you will NOT regret it!

Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two because I am NOT ready to leave these characters behind! 😭
Profile Image for Alejandra Gaviria.
145 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 13, 2026
Omg omg omg !!😱

Give me a second cause this girl is seriously processing it all. Truly, Ivy never fails. Book hangovers are a thing because you just don’t see it coming.

Ahem. So let’s begin. If you have read Ivy’s books then you know we are on the next gen. Seeing our lovely kids become teenagers. But! Even better seeing how their families stories all come together and show up. It just really brings it altogether beautifully. So if you read about the Hunters, Caldwells & Stevens, then you can just pick up all the background in a heartbeat.

I love how Ivy brings everyone together. I mean, we felt Sophie truly go through it. Everything she felt, her commitment to love & so much more. I loved being able to see Rob & Daphne be parents. The relationship they have with their kids. Truly you can tell they are Rob & Daphne’s kids. Seeing the different perspectives really puts a touch on things and brings everything home.

But just like always, Ivy gives you laughter, but she knows how to pull at your heart strings too. Damn does she pull on them. We go through all our feelings. But to end this book on that cliff hanger?! Now that was just plain cruel 😂 I promise Sophie has us going through a wild ride. & I can’t wait for book two! As much as I want to drop a hint I won’t leave any spoilers. You need to read this book for yourself.

Ivy you outdid yourself again! You truly are going above and beyond for the kids stories. as always I’m here for all of it. I never wanted to let these characters go and reading the kids stories has been just chef’s kiss. Now please don’t have us waiting too long for the next one🤞🏽as always happy reading! ✌🏽
Profile Image for Mrs Sara.
38 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 14, 2026
Well now I can breath....take a breath.......

Well the next Gen of Empire High are really coming into their own...
Seeing them grow from kids to teenagers and beyond..... what i also like and loved that Ivy hascdone seeing how their families are together and how they are as parents

If you read an the previous books you already know how the families come together Hunters, Caldwells & Stevens and why they are they act or interact the way they do.

I really felt for Sophie everything she went through it. Your hear goes out to her... her commitment to love and everything else.
So great to Rob & Daphne be parents. Especially Rob with his carefree attitude They have such a great relationship with their kids. They are so intune with them and really feel everything you can see they are their kids

As always Ivy knows how to pull on your heart trings takes you deep and makes you feel, but in the same breath makes you laugh and want hide in embarrassment with the antics that go on...
She knows how to toy with your emotions but in a good way you go through everything with them and really feel.

So takes you on her wild ride, with fun, love and laughter.... what you would expect having read the previous books, she take you into her world

Ivy did again!!..... You truly are taking us on a wild ride and beyond with the next gen... i did not want to say goodbye to the first generation as you got me hooked on all there stories from the very first book with Penny.

Can't wait for all their stories see what life has in store for all of them... looking forward to Sophie next book and in time a book for Jacob...

Please don’tmake us wait to long for the next on.....
30 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 10, 2026
ARC Review: Sophie and the Bad Teacher by Ivy Smoak

Well, Ivy Smoak has done it again! 🤩 How this author manages to get me to spend an entire day reading until I finish a book absolutely amazes me. I swear, once I start one of her books, everything else has to wait!

I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but let me tell you… this book is SOOOO funny and has been such a fantastic read! Ivy Smoak has a way with words that pulls you right into the story, and the pranks? What can I say? Robert’s daughter… that’s all we need to say! 😂🤣

Honestly, I wish these characters could last forever and that Ivy could keep writing about them again and again. There is just something so special about this group of characters that makes me never want to leave their world. Every time I read another book featuring them, it makes me want to go all the way back to the beginning and reread every single book because they really are THAT GOOD!

This book is another HIT, and I recommend it 100%! Just do yourself a favor and read it on the weekend because you are NOT going to want to work, be productive, or do anything else until you finish it! 😂📚

This has been such a fun ride! Great job, Ivy Smoak! You did it again! ❤️ I can’t wait for Book 2 in this series!

And honestly, there’s nothing quite like one of your books to pull me right out of a reading slump. Your stories and characters never disappoint, and I’m always left wanting more.

Five stars from me! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for litljen.
1,266 reviews43 followers
October 20, 2026
Ivy Smoak always delivers fantastical stories, and Sophie and the Bad Teacher is just as outrageous and fun as the rest of her catalogue! It's a funny, steamy, emotional, surprising, and delightful read that will completely consume you. As with most of Smoak's stories, this one ends in a cliffhanger, so make sure you are prepared going in! This forbidden student/teacher/classmate romance will make you laugh and make you cry. There are twists and turns that you won't see coming, which only adds to the fun.

Poor Sophie has had a serious crush on her teacher, Mr. Hallifax, for the past year. She's completely obsessed with him and has made it her mission to seduce him. Things go awry when Mr. Hallifax disappears one day without a trace. In steps Adonis, the new student who is obsessed with Sophie. It takes time, but Sophie eventually falls for Adonis, and they begin a relationship that turns out to be pretty twisted. I'm not going to give anything away, but just wait until you see how everything goes down!!!

Smoak's mind is truly a wonder, and what she came up with for this story is diabolical! I feel like I came away with a bit of whiplash....but in a great way! The cliffhanger is something I was expecting, and I'm glad it ended the way it did. I cannot wait to see where Ms. Smoak takes the next part of this story! I also can't wait for Jacob's story, as she started laying some breadcrumbs for what's to come for him! Don't miss this fabulous story!!! 4.75 stars
Profile Image for harlsreadsnc.
31 reviews
October 15, 2026
Ivy has done it again with another amazing book! I absolutely loved being back at Empire High with Sophie, Scarlett, Axel, Jacob, RJ, and Liam. There’s just something about being back with these characters that I love, and getting to see Scarlett and Axel’s relationship blossom now that they’re finally together was everything!

My heart was BREAKING for Jacob. We all know he’s still in love with Scarlett, and seeing him deal with those feelings while never letting them affect the friendship group made me love him even more. I also hated seeing Sophie so broken. No spoilers, but my girl deserved so much better!

And of course, I loved seeing Daddy James being Daddy James. Because let’s be real, we can never get enough of him!

The banter and the way the characters interact never miss a beat, just like in Scarlett’s books. Ivy knows how to keep me hooked from beginning to end! And that plot twist at the end?! I JUST KNEW something was going to happen, but that cliffhanger still had me sitting there like EXCUSE ME?! I NEED THE NEXT BOOK NOW.

A huge thank you to Ivy for choosing me to receive an ARC copy of this book! I’m so happy I got to be back at Empire High and can’t wait to read more of Sophie’s story!
Profile Image for Sierra.
199 reviews2 followers
October 28, 2026
🌶️🌶️ 2/5

Sophie is a senior in high school and determined to make her math teacher notice her. She’s had a crush on him for years and with being almost 18 and almost graduating, she needs to make her move. He’s ignored her previous advances, so she knows she needs to up her game this year. Will he be able to remain professional and continue to ignore her advances, or will he finally crave to her seductions?

Like any book from Ivy Smoak, this book is chaotic and had me physically cracking up at some points. While being chaotic and silly in parts it was also a little upsetting in parts.

I’ll be honest, this book brought me back to high school. Reading about how Sophie reacted to guys and how one guy seemed to completely break and change her until someone else managed to weasel his way into her heart brought flashbacks to stuff I had to deal with and felt about boys.

All in all, I did enjoy this book. Got to see characters that I’ve grown to love from other series and getting the stories about their children’s perspectives have been amazing. I can’t wait to read the next book about Sophie.
Profile Image for Ashling B.
159 reviews19 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 14, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I absolutely loved Scarlett and the Kiss Thief, so I knew I was going to enjoy this one too! 😂 I really enjoyed getting to know Sophie a bit more and seeing a different side to her. I also loved that Sophie and Scarlett are getting ready to head off to college. I've really enjoyed their friendship throughout the series, so I was excited to see what was next for them! ❤️

There was plenty of drama between Sophie trying to win over Mr. Halifax and the mysterious stranger who suddenly appears in her life! 👀 I loved the mystery element, especially as it reminded me of what I enjoyed so much about Kiss Thief. I was constantly trying to figure out who the stranger was, and Sophie definitely had me questioning some of her decisions along the way 😂

Overall, I really enjoyed this one! It was such an easy book to get caught up in, with plenty of secrets and drama. And that ending...... I should have known Ivy Smoak would leave us hanging! I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what happens next! ❤️

📚 Forbidden romance
🔥 Age gap attraction
👀 Mysterious stranger
💌 Secrets and drama
❤️ Female friendship
😱 Cliffhanger ending
Profile Image for Jayme Muraco.
195 reviews8 followers
October 15, 2026
Omg Ivy!!!!! I ate this book up so fast!!! Ivy’s writing is so addicting and humorous, and her characters are top tier. I have been in love with this world she has built for years and love that she just keeps giving us more.

Sophie has been in love with her teacher, Mr. Halifax, for a while now, and isn’t too subtle about it. She’ll get herself in trouble on purpose, such as using her phone so he confiscates it. And she maybeeeee purposely leaves some tasteful pictures of herself in her phone, hoping he goes through it. You will truly be cracking up this entire book at her actions and comments.

Sophie and her friends go to a club one night knowing that the teachers are all there. Sophie eyes Mr. Halifax the entire time, especially while she’s dancing with a mystery man. This mystery man is making her feel things she hasn’t felt by anyone else in a long time, other than her feelings for Mr. Halifax of course.

Will this mystery man make her forget all about Mr. Halifax? Will Sophie and her teacher finally cross that line?

RUN AND GET THIS ASAP!! You will not be disappointed.
21 reviews
October 15, 2026
Get ready for an unexpected and unpredictable journey with Sophie and the Bad Teacher! Will Sophie finally achieve her long-standing desire to be with Mr. Halifax? Will he risk everything for a student? Dive in to find out!

Ivy masterfully captures the raw emotions of high school in this book. As a young person, everything feels more dramatic and intense. It’s your first time experiencing what feels like real adult experiences, from falling in love and heartbreak to learning to trust. While Sophie has always been confident and self-assured, this is the first time we witness her vulnerability. Brace yourself for a fresh perspective on Sophie.

As always, Ivy infuses the story with humor and lightheartedness, even amidst the heavy times. Expect a few playful pranks and mischievous monkeys to keep you entertained.

Join us for more exciting adventures at Empire High!

I received an ARC copy of Sophie and the Bad Teacher, and this review is a reflection of my honest and unbiased opinions.
71 reviews
October 15, 2026
Sophie has waited forever to get her happy ending and fights to get it, only to lose it.
She invites Mr. Halifax to every party and he never shows.
Until the one time he does and she gives him everything just for him to leave the school.
OMG.......this book tore my heart out! I felt so bad for Sophie and felt every emotion that she was going through. I mean, what teenage girl has not had their heart broken by their crush? But her heart was hurt in the most horrific way I could think of. It was ripped out and stepped on and not given an explanation as to why things happened.....(Uncle James & daddy Rob finding the note that was left at the party?)
Sophie's the best friends a girl can have and RJ being the brother he is, who could ask for more?! They do their best to keep her spirits up and her smile in place.
I love the twist at the end of the book when they get to New Castle and walk into their first class.....
I can not wait to see what Jacob and Axel do when they walk in that room!
Profile Image for Sandi Beyette.
21 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 10, 2026
All I can say is Holy Crap! This book had me laughing so hard, then almost in tears and now I cannot wait for the next one to come out!

As usual Ivy has amazing character development, watching all the kids growing up has been amazing! I am so excited to see what happens next.

There were definitely a few twists and turns and I felt like I knew what was going to happen to be hit with something completely different.

Its was amazing to see Sophie in a different light than from the Scarlett books, but the way she is in this book was fantastic!

If you haven't read the Scarlett and the Kiss theif series, you have to read those first, to understand some of nuances. But this is also a great standalone series.

Thank you Ivy for another amazing story. You are truly talented and have definitely become my go to author when people ask me to recommend books.
Profile Image for Tessa Dotson.
28 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 11, 2026
I could not tear myself away! I truly felt every single thing. To put into words this story is difficult. Sophie’s story is the most relatable story ivy has written. She is so confident and a shining star, but she is also human and full of emotions and depth that gets overshadowed by her bright light. To see and feel how life changes her was truly impactful. And to see how she finds herself and pushes through was inspiring. In the blink of an eye it can change. And every thing you do has an impact on those around you. Will Sophie get the bad teacher? Can she break him? Or will the new guy steal her heart away? I am still routing for Jacob, I feel like he means more to Sophie than they realize just yet. I can’t wait to see how Aphrodite overcomes her first year of college. And how the 4 best friends shake things up.
Profile Image for lashawn  Newman.
160 reviews
October 16, 2026
Wowzer. I know there are some who will not enjoy this one due to some of the content but I certainly did. It also took a turn I wasn't expecting. Though I shouldn't be surprised by anything when it comes to an Ivy Smoak book. All I have to say is that this book confirms that Sophie is definitely Rob's daughter. This girl is all over the place. My heart hurt for her though. I know the maturity level is low but she is a high school girl and so it fits. She makes some seriously "bad decisions" as I think many young girls who have a crush sometimes do. I am rooting for Team Adonis as I do think he truly gets her despite how it all started. I just don't think she sees her own hypocrisy. Excited to see what Ivy has in store and who she eventually ends up with.
Profile Image for Heather Williams.
123 reviews
November 3, 2026
Ivy brings us back to the familiar grounds of Empire High with Sophie and the Bad Teacher, the fourth book in the Stolen Kisses and Bad Decisions series. It has a high stakes, forbidden student/teacher romance packed with tension, mystery and a cliffhanger ending.

This book starts Sophie's journey with her plan to get her teacher Mr. Halifax to admit and act on his feelings for her. However a chance encounter with a stranger leads to a protective stalker warning her away from her teacher.

The mystery and chemistry were great, however the thought process and decisions of Sophie were sometimes annoying. The cliffhanger leaves you asking what will happen next.

Overall an entertaining, page turner that you will devour quickly.
1,312 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 11, 2026
A Forbidden Romance!!

Sophie and the Bad Teacher is all about Sophie and her obsession with Mr. Halifax. She will do whatever she can to get him to notice her in the way she has pined over him for years. This includes plans and shenanigans and A Christmas Adam Party with all involved…Scarlett, Axel, Liam, Jacob and RJ.

What happens when Sophie doesn’t get what she wants? She digs in deeper until there is nothing left. In the midst, there has a mysterious stranger vying for her attention, how can she accept advances when her heart is still tied to Mr. Halifax? Sophie is navigating her senior year, but will this mysterious stranger derail her plans? Only time will tell so as not to tube away too much of the story.

I found the story to be entertaining, because how can you not be entertained with this group? In the end, Sophie wants her happily ever after like Scarlett and Axel, James and Penny and her mom and dad. Can’t wait to read Sophie and Her Second Chance!
48 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 13, 2026
Oh my! This book was once again another amazing book. i have never read another author that can put you through the emotional paces like Ivy. This book has laughs, emotional feels, and a behind the scenes look at how even the ones that seem most put together can be insecure.
I am absolutely loving the books about the kids of our favorite group from Empire High. If you've read the series you can definitely see how the kids are like their parents. I love how we can still catch up on the OG through these books.
Sophie goes through some typical teenage experiences including angst and poor decision-making. In true Ivy fashion we have a cliff hanger and i cannot wait for book two.
Profile Image for Kerryanne Woodhead.
230 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 13, 2026
I did not go into this book prepared for the rollercoaster of emotions! Sophie went through so many different feelings throughout this book and experienced all the highs and lows. I love that the comedy and operations were still in full force with the gang. The whole family is just like coming home, we know and love them all. I've been part of the Hunter and Caldwell family from the beginning. Picky little goblins is my favourite quote of all.
Larry was my favourite, full of sass and knows what she likes - hilarious! I wouldn't expect anything less.
So many twists in the story and did not expect that little surprise at the end - cant wait for book 2!!
Profile Image for Elke Simmons.
97 reviews4 followers
October 15, 2026
Sophie and the Bad Teacher was given to me as an ARC for an honest review. I have been an Ivy Smoak fan for years now, but this series is one of my favorites, and Sophie’s story has started with a bang. Getting to know her better has been so thrilling. Sophie’s story has plenty of spice, and maybe even a little darkness, but so much to love. One of the best aspects of this story is the obvious closeness of the Hunter family. It’s a sweet element that helps the reader deeply invest in the story. There were some spectacular turns and I cannot wait to see what else is in store for Sophie. If you like romance, this is definitely a story you want to read.
582 reviews15 followers
October 17, 2026
Sophie has a crush on her teacher, Mr. Halifax. She’s always finding ways to get him to notice her. Will he finally cave to her? Wait til you find out.

At the club one night with her friends, it seems Sophie gets exactly what she wants. But does she is the question? She also meets a mystery man, Adonis. He’s definitely one heck of a character. I didn’t much prefer him though. When Mr. Halifax disappears, it’s Adonis who really tries to be all Sophie needs. Is this relationship meant to be? Will Adonis and Sophie have a happy ending? What happens when college begins and a shocking surprise astonishes Sophie? You won’t want to miss it. Bring on book 2.
49 reviews
October 20, 2026
This book picks up where Scarlett's story trio ends. It starts her story and while you think you know Sophie, you don't.
Now it's her turn to dig into her life.
And while you think you're ready for this, you're really not.
The turns and twists don't end, and I have a feeling the trio for Sophie's story won't stop with all the twists and unexpected moments until the last word of her series!
This book really should be read after Sophie's book and it does end on a cliffhanger of sorts.
Just start with Scarlett's trio first!!
5 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
October 11, 2026
I’ve enjoyed going back to Empire High, seeing Rob as a dad, and experiencing the stories of the next generation. Ivy writes her books so well, it gives you a perspective of Sophie’s mind, emotions, and love story all while feeling like you’re in their world of these characters. Thoroughly enjoyed seeing the character development and growth throughout this book! I am looking forward to and cannot wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Lori Hamilton.
745 reviews5 followers
October 15, 2026
I thought I was obsessed with Scarlett’s books but holy cow! Sophie’s book is so crazy good. My heart broke for Sophie a few times but overall she is still the hilarious girl who has no filter and still can’t stand the Triple G’s. She really went through some things in this book but she had her friends and family to help her.
With the crazy twist and then the cliffhanger I cannot wait for the next book to come out! I must know what happens next.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
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