Exposed

by Suzana Thompson

My enemy had seen me naked. He was holding the proof right before my eyes, and my stomach lurched sickeningly. "Seems like you had too much to drink last night," he remarked in that condescending tone he always used with me. I looked up at him as he stood watching me from the doorway with his attitude of superiority. In that moment of weakness, I actually tried to plead with him. "Please. I've never done anything to you." "Begging me on your knees. That's a good start." Dread turned my clammy skin cold. Mason Sumner hated my guts, and he would have no compassion for me. This was bad. This was really, really bad. Not intended for younger teens due to adult content.

Genres: Dark Romance, High School, Enemies To Lovers, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook

482 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 3, 2018

About the author

I love to write, but quitting my day job is not an option. I survive on coffee and too little sleep. This is a habit from my teens when I used to stay up most of the night reading books.


Website: http://www.suzanathompson.com/

Reviews

[Lady Raven RAVE! · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Style: Bully Romance (High School)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Dark Level: 1/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: No
Male: Popular, Obsessive & Possessive
Series: No
Pages: 482
Audio: GirlV: GOOD
Kindle Unlimited: No


STORY:
So I struggle with the rating for this book, because there were equal pros and cons. I’ve read so many romance books I’ve stopped counting, I've learned to dissect to give my overall view of the books and not on one thing. Here, the FMC( female main character) was not someone I cared for. My relationship with her was that of hills and valleys, highs and lows. Now, do I rate this book low because of her choices and that she annoyed me? No, but it was tempting. Or, do I rate this book across the board with overall feeling of the story and other characters? Yes.

So here we go. The way the book started out, it was really good for my personal taste and what I like as well as it follows a blueprint of the typical BR genre if you are familiar with it. Mason comes off cold and calculating in the beginning. The book started out with an already established isolation and history of bullying by Mason. With a naked picture, Mason uses this to blackmail Ella for what her mother had done. The blackmail aspect of the book had a good enough lifespan, as it sets into motion what Mason needed and that was getting close to Ella. Because Mason came off Stoic to me, it was hard penetrating his views and knowing what his end game was. Now, Ella. She was good in the beginning but somewhere somehow I started liking Mason more than Ella. Her choices and thought process irked the hell out of me as the story progresses. I am being serious when I say this, I literally had anxiety because of Ella while reading this book because of her secret and what she was doing. One reason I believe I found her irritating, she carried this book on her own with her POV. I felt if we had dual POV, this would have made a lot of difference. Now I’m not saying Mason was innocent because he came of very calculated, obsessive and controlling with Ella. I really needed to gauge Mason’s thoughts as there was so much mystery to him.

Regardless of what I thought about Ella, I liked the 90% of the story and seeing the way Mason was so obsessed with Ella and willing to do anything had me excited as well. I would have preferred to have seen a conclusion to Mason and Ella’s mother situation as well.


CHEMISTRY:
I wanted more physical chemistry between Ella and Mason. I felt as though with all that drama between them; they deserved more intimacy. The build up I liked but when it exploded, I needed more and more than once.


SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Addison and Josh yuck - nails on the chalkboard or worst. So annoying.

Alice- loved her the realest.

Erin- loved her.

Zoey- loved her.

Tyler- loved him.

I thought there were a lot of good secondary characters in this book that made up for Ella’s stupidity; that’s why I am so surprised this is not a series. After finishing the book I went in search of more books as I thought this was a series. If this was a series, I would so read everyone’s stories listed above.


Overall, despite my love hate relationship with Ella, I found the story likable. The story still engaged me, and it still kept my interest wanting to know how this would end.


***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an interesting story with an enemy to lovers type romance. The author does a good job developing the story and moves it in a timely fashion. It's an enjoyable read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Judie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this read but had a few eye rolling moments when it came to Ella. I did hope that she wasn’t such a pushover but as the story went on she did step up a bit.

[Shayay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the majority of this! Sweet and sexy connection between Mason and Ella. Intense depth of passion between them. I’m glad the bully aspect didn’t last too long, and that Ella stands up for herself most of the time. I enjoy a good enemies to lovers too. Mason has treated Ella horribly for years because of something between Ella’s horrible mother and Mason’s father. Mason is hurt so he lashes out, but once he actually talks with Ella, he realizes how wrong he was about her. Now, I’m all for Mason needing to really prove himself to Ella and I’m usually the reader that says that the heroine should’ve made the hero that done her wrong work more for her forgiveness, but in this book, I felt Mason had to work too hard for Ella’s trust. Yes, Mason was a total jerk before, so there definitely needed to be some major apologies, but Ella took it too far. It was pretty obvious that Mason was being genuine with her, but Ella continues to make idiotic choices. She’s a total idiot about Josh and that junk went on for way too long; I can’t stand how dishonest she was. The sweet moments between Mason and Ella were a bit tainted after that. So, that’s where the lost star comes from. I loved that her friends tell Ella like it is though, and made her see that she was being a moron; too bad she didn’t fully listen. Other than that though, I loved everything else. The poems were awesome and the epilogue was wonderful. I listened to the audio version and the narrator did great. She fit the characters well. I also loved that this is a standalone. Entertaining!

[Niah · Rating 1 out of 5]

Can't believe this was even released

Have absolutely no respect for any of the characters. Don't recommend this book to anyone at all. EXTREMELY hard to finish

[AND 1515 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sizzling Drama and Raging Hormones...

by and1515

At first Ella thought she was seeing things but nope she wasn't hallucinating at all;the one person didn't even like was standing there like he'd won some kind of lottery.
Ella couldn't comprehend how or why this was happening to her nor could she understand the fact her so called friend's apparent role in this whole nightmare.
Mason couldn't believe he finally caught his prey and now he had Ella exactly where he wanted her.
It had been so easy; he was going to make sure she never forgot just who was in charge.
Ella was beyond emotional and totally embarrassed as he kept pushing her trying to use her reactions to sooth his own issues.
Now he had thought of everything and he was making sure his demonic friends got to see her as his little maid.
But there's nothing more confusing or complicated then trying to navigate one's self through highschool but adding someone like Mason on top of everything else.
Was like trying to walk through rush hour traffic while blindfolded; hoping and praying you don't get hit.
Then of course there were those's she actually thought were descent only to realize they were just an illusion out to trip her up.
But no matter how much she felt good or even bad the world didn't stop just because she'd made some really bad choices.
Mason hadn't known how to deal with the thoughts racing through his head but also the fact nothing seemed to matter anymore.
And he either needed to speak up or forever hold his peace.
Yeah he knew and soon so would she.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[NerdyFloraleReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mason Sumner is Ella's biggest tormentor. Because of him and the rumors he spreads, she doesn't have any friends, let alone any boyfriends. The only friend she was allowed to have, betrayed her in the worst way possible. And it results in Mason, whose driven by his desire to get even, having what he needs to make Ella's life a living hell. Blackmail. I know I shouldn't be rooting for someone like Mason but there's something about enemies turn to lovers that I like. He's a bully, cold, manipulative and calculated. He claims to hate Ella yet one way or the other he's completely obsessed with her. Upon reading one of her poems, his prospective about her changed. And Ella isn't sure what to make of it. She's confused. About him. His behavior. Her feelings. Everything. The big question is are his intentions good? Or is this part of another one of his games? This writing style is always my favorite. Hold on, let me clarify that Suzana Thompson's style of writing is my favorite. Nothing is dragged out or overly detailed. Everything flows effortlessly from one point to the other. And the ending was perfect. This was such a good book to read. I can't help but shiver at the cover, it feels like Mason is staring into the depths of my soul. Ugh love it!💘

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, I really enjoyed this read/listen. This is the story of Ella and Mason who's parents have a sorted and dark history. Beyond that tho, Ella's behavior, while somewhat understandable was so extreme in her back and forth, hot and cold behavior with Mason that I had a hard time liking her - even with all the bullying he did to her over the years. I loved Mason - who seemed consistent and his behavior was more understandable and reliable thru the read. if you like bully, school romance reads, then I would definitely recommend. Narration was spot on and the characters had great chemistry. Loved the epilogue which gave me the perfect closure to these two.

This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read

[Brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

The perfect enemies to lovers story. The hatred and assumptions that Mason has of Ella is horrible in this story. The torment he put her through is heartbreaking and the realization that he was wrong about her has him feeling horrible as well. Trying to turn around their relationship was messed up and it was amazing how they were able to make it through the end with a happy ever after. It was fun to watch but painful at the same time. The narration for this book was amazing as well. So happy I got to listen to this book.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book to be very entertaining. High school bullying at its worst. Two kids dealing with issues that, frankly have been brought on by their parents. Ella has really been cheated out of her high school experience.
I listened to audiobook version and felt I was right in the story. Performed very well with various characters. Lots of expression and emotion. I felt Mason's love and frustration. I felt Ella's distrust and doubt, but need. I recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from Story Origin.

[Suzanne Critelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new author and narrator for me. This is a young adult audiobook, but I do recommend it for the older teens and up. Ella has always crushed on Mason before meeting him. When they do meet, he pretty much gives her hell. Mason then gets a change of heart. Ella's feelings for Mason are strong, but throughout the story she will either act on them and fight them. I enjoyed seeing how the whole story falls into place and the narrator's interpretation of it all.

[Tranese · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a good read

First book to be read bu Suzana Thompson. I was 30% into the book before I Purchased it. That's how good this was. This one was not like your usual bully romances and that is a great thing. I really loved how how strong Ella was throughout the entire book she held nothing back and I loved how Mason was so determined nothing was going to stand in his way. Great read from beginning to end, though i feel like the end was kind of rushed

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

To much drama for me but my high school time is in the past and memories are not so harsh.
So what we have here,; enemies to lovers, high school bullying, unstable families on both sides.
Just wonder how this two come well adjusted young people.
The ending was very rushed, I definitely would like more of their lovely family time.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I give 3.5*for this book

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like reading bully romance themed stories because I like to see how the author utilizes the two differing points and see if they can make it interesting and believable. This author does with this book. While some of the actions and dialogue doesn’t seem to ring true for the characters given their age, the story does have a good vibe. I found this book to be enjoyable and entertaining.

I requested a copy of this book so I could provide an honest review.

[Lia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I gave 4 stars only because the final part was a bit rushed in my opinion. But I loved it!!! I would have strangled Ella tho...how stubborn she was to not believe in Mason and in her feelings for him!!!! Damn her! And other things she did or didn't do. Sorry but I was procrastinating all the time about her. Anyway I loved the story, and the sensual tension and passion between the two. Well done!

[Destiney Rice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this enemies to lovers high school bully romance. I do believe it should be NA rather than YA due to some sexy steamy situations. I did find myself wishing Ella would stand up for herself more but she gets better throughout the book. I'm glad to have some backstory on Mason and see his character building throughout the story. Overall It was a great read and great audiobook.

[Ashley Hedden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exposed: A High School Bully Romance was a good read by Suzana Thompson. Mason hates Ella’s guts for something that is against her control. He has a naked picture of her that he is using to blackmail her. Little did they both know, this may bring them both together. I enjoyed reading this book and cant wait to read more by the author.

[Jerry T Sada · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good reminder of high school

The story is Simple but captivating. At the beginning I even hated the hero, but he turned out to be ok. The female lead was a little erratic but it is high school. I enjoyed the book and recommend it.

[Kathy Mccalmon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a high school bully romance. It is more an enemies to lovers dark romance. The storyline has drama conflict and suspense.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alex Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deliciously dark bully romance. Likable characters, well written. Would recommend, will read this author again.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting

Wow. That was an emotional rollercoaster. There’s a fine line between love and hate and they seem to skirt along the edges daring one another to cross.

[Nate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an entertaining book. I liked it. I received an arc of the book. And am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

hmmmm

Well I love the book but I hated how he didn't bully her for to long and it was quick to in love there wasn't any girls fights I don't know not enough drama or sex for me

[Cheryl addie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it,could not put it down

[Natalie Darby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Suzana Thomspon for sending me this audiobook in return for an honest review. 

When I read the blub for exposed I was unsure if this was the story for me. I like enemies to lovers books but I'm not a fan of the idea of school bullies turning into love interests. However, having read some of Thompson's other books, Fake Boyfriend and Tomboy, I decided to put my faith in her. 

Ella has been bullied by Mason since he came into town, After a drunken blackout, Mason gets hold of an indecent image of Ella and uses it as blackmail to make her do whatever he wants. Suddenly, he becomes a perfect gentleman and begins to act like Ella's boyfriend...is he being truthful or just luring her into a false sense of security?

As mentioned, I wasn't sure about the school bully to love interest thing, but I think that Suzana Thompson turned the idea around really well. Mason's character building was very clever. We learned his back story and why he had such an issue with Ella to begin with. Throughout the story, he also displays a 'spoiled little rich boy' personality where he's obviously not used to getting what he wants and is often shocked or annoyed when Ella defies him. It's actually a well-written flaw to stop him from being a perfect boyfriend.
I didn't click as well with Ella's character, she was likable and had a strong personality but I don't really feel like I learned a lot about her. 
Narrator, Lauren Sweet did a good job keeping the story in motion and portraying the different characters. 

I was pleasantly surprised by this story, to the point where I was really hooked on this audiobook. I'd suggest it for high school romance lovers but would urge them to take caution and read with an open mind due to the nature of the book.

[Tiffany Thomson · Rating 1 out of 5]

Let me start this off with saying I do not like to give any book a bad review but this site is all about our honest opinion. I started this book with little expectations as all the reviews on amazon were not good. Ok I can't believe how immature these characters really are. The main girls supposedly bestfriend was never really even her friend and then set her up to get completely drunk so the popular guy would date her wtf... and then she allowed her to take a nude picture of her amd really expected him not 2 cheat on her amd want her how dumb can this girl be. So despite to be popular but in the end only had like maybe 5 minutes of fame being popular I couldn't even finish this book the writing was so bad. The boy did have quite the crush on the girl he was terrorizing big shocker their. Are girls in highschool these days really that stupid and careless about other people. I dont even know the characters names sorry guys. All in all personally I would suggest you don't waste you're time.

[Randi Bustamante · Rating 1 out of 5]

What in the heck am I reading? Seriously! Its an enemies to lovers stories, but there is no reason to be enemies. Mason assumes too much about Ella for something that happened between their parents, consenting adults, when they were kids! Seriously 12/13 years old at the time. Ella and Mason don't even meet until Freshman year of H.S., so 14-ish, and right off the bat he's an asshole to her. He makes her life miserable, she has no friends, no boyfriends, never invited out to parties, events, nothing. And she still has a crush on him. Then in the first few chapters he reads her poems and is in love 🤦‍♀️
I can't stand the writing style either.
It is like this.
I will tell you it's bad.
But won't show you how it is.
And continue on like this.
With very little detail.
And sophomoric vocabulary.
I can not recommend this book.

[Rita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enemy to lovers / high school bully romance , Ella is bullied by Mason when he get her compromised picture. There is a power exchange when he blackmailed her to do his bidding. Mason hates and loves Ella because her mother was cause of his father heart attack, so after he starts to see Ella is not like her mother he starts to show his feelings… it is an interesting book, with few hot scenes.

[Ashley Hedden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exposed: A High School Bully Romance was a good read by Suzana Thompson. Mason hates Ella’s guts for something that is against her control. He has a naked picture of her that he is using to blackmail her. Little did they both know, this may bring them both together. I enjoyed reading this book and cant wait to read more by the author.

[C 10 · Rating 3 out of 5]

My enemy had seen me naked. He was holding the proof right before my eyes, and my stomach lurched sickeningly.

"Seems like you had too much to drink last night," he remarked in that condescending tone he always used with me.

I looked up at him as he stood watching me from the doorway with his attitude of superiority. In that moment of weakness, I actually tried to plead with him. "Please. I've never done anything to you."

"Begging me on your knees. That's a good start."

Dread turned my clammy skin cold. Mason Sumner hated my guts, and he would have no compassion for me. This was bad. This was really, really bad.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.