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Ruthless Rulers #1
Ruthless Prince
Take a peek behind the curtains at the wild, sinful lives of America’s elite and uncover their scandalous secrets, twisted lies and wicked games…
I’ve been watching Willow Rhoades for years, biding my time, and I know her inside and out. I know she’s not the pure, innocent little princess she makes herself out to be, and I know every sordid secret she tries to hide. Every dark deed she’s committed.
She’s about to pay for all of those sins, in more ways than one.
She doesn’t know it yet, but she belongs to me, offered up as payment for a debt incurred by her corrupt family. Now it’s finally time for me to take her. Claim her. Own her.
As my pretty little captive, she’ll discover that she was born to serve. Born to be used. Born to be mine. She’ll submit to me, and I won’t be gentle about it. I’ll control her, punish her, and make her beg for more as she confesses to every last one of her wicked secrets and lies.
Welcome to your new world, Willow. You’re now the property of Logan Thorne.
Note: This novel contains disturbing content that may be offensive to some readers.
Ruthless Prince is the first book in the Ruthless Rulers trilogy. The story continues in Sinful Palace.
I’ve been watching Willow Rhoades for years, biding my time, and I know her inside and out. I know she’s not the pure, innocent little princess she makes herself out to be, and I know every sordid secret she tries to hide. Every dark deed she’s committed.
She’s about to pay for all of those sins, in more ways than one.
She doesn’t know it yet, but she belongs to me, offered up as payment for a debt incurred by her corrupt family. Now it’s finally time for me to take her. Claim her. Own her.
As my pretty little captive, she’ll discover that she was born to serve. Born to be used. Born to be mine. She’ll submit to me, and I won’t be gentle about it. I’ll control her, punish her, and make her beg for more as she confesses to every last one of her wicked secrets and lies.
Welcome to your new world, Willow. You’re now the property of Logan Thorne.
Note: This novel contains disturbing content that may be offensive to some readers.
Ruthless Prince is the first book in the Ruthless Rulers trilogy. The story continues in Sinful Palace.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 22, 2019
1064 people are currently reading
1180 people want to read
About the author
Stella Hart
33 books304 followersStella Hart is the dark romance pen name of Alessandra Hart. She loves animals, red wine, and rainy days where she can curl up inside and plot new books instead of having to go out.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
December 20, 2019
I don't say this lightly, because all of this authors work is pretty dark, but Ruthless Prince was pretty freaking dark. It's actually taken me two days to gather my thoughts on this one, because when I finished reading all I could think was, "holy crap!" Willow and Logan are on this insane thrill ride together. Logan seemingly knows all of the twists and turns, while Willow is in the dark and left feeling pretty crazy. I don't want to say too much about this book, because I feel like you need to read it yourself and let it unfold organically, but I will say that the relationship in this one is forced, there's dub con, and there is a bit of abuse. So many things are revealed, but I don't trust half of them, and I ca't wait for the next book to see what actually is taking place in this corrupt political elite world. Such a great read. I'm only sad I have to wait for the next one!
Coming December 22nd!
*ARC
Coming December 22nd!
*ARC
Read
August 13, 2020DNF @25%
Going into this book, I knew that it was gonna be dark, but this wasn't it! Logan (H) was a psychopath.
He did such messed up shit to her, whose-name-i-dont-rememeber. He literally made her look crazy and stupid girl even believes it herself! She thinks that she really is crazy too! He made everyone believe that she needed help, after what he did to her, all the threats and then hogtied her to the bed naked!! Her parents, the security team and the doctors believed that she was hallucinating and did all of those things to herself under stress.
We also get a snippet of what happens after she finds out that she is sold to them (The Thorne family; Logan's family) and she is now married to him at the start of the book (it's in the girl's POV) and she says how Logan has beaten her black and blue. There's the whole 'punishment' thing and then there's beating a girl up, and I'm sorrynot sorry but thats where I draw the line.
This book just wasn't for me. H was a psychopath and h was a crazy bitch, I'm sorry but I have better things to do with my time than read about how H basically ruins her life by convincing her family that she's crazy and then beats her up. Also, did I mention that he hates her for no apparent reason?
Again, this book just wasn't for me #sorrynotsorry but it will not stop me from future reads by this author,but it will move her books down my tbr
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Happy reading you guys! I just haven't been having luck with books lately and I end up dnf'ing them but you guys should have fun. I'm not at all jealous! The onlybooks book I can read is Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata which I read again last night. Don't blame me, I couldn't sleep and after this book, I really needed a memory cleanser! Why am I so sure that Chandler is shaking her head at me right now? Sorry Chan, I couldn't help it!
Anyway, happy reading to you guys once again, hope you guys are having better luck than me! x
Going into this book, I knew that it was gonna be dark, but this wasn't it! Logan (H) was a psychopath.
He did such messed up shit to her, whose-name-i-dont-rememeber. He literally made her look crazy and stupid girl even believes it herself! She thinks that she really is crazy too! He made everyone believe that she needed help, after what he did to her, all the threats and then hogtied her to the bed naked!! Her parents, the security team and the doctors believed that she was hallucinating and did all of those things to herself under stress.
We also get a snippet of what happens after she finds out that she is sold to them (The Thorne family; Logan's family) and she is now married to him at the start of the book (it's in the girl's POV) and she says how Logan has beaten her black and blue. There's the whole 'punishment' thing and then there's beating a girl up, and I'm sorry
This book just wasn't for me. H was a psychopath and h was a crazy bitch, I'm sorry but I have better things to do with my time than read about how H basically ruins her life by convincing her family that she's crazy and then beats her up. Also, did I mention that he hates her for no apparent reason?
Again, this book just wasn't for me #sorrynotsorry but it will not stop me from future reads by this author,
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Happy reading you guys! I just haven't been having luck with books lately and I end up dnf'ing them but you guys should have fun. I'm not at all jealous! The only
Anyway, happy reading to you guys once again, hope you guys are having better luck than me! x
April 24, 2020
4.5 stars
I loved it!
This was my first book by Stella Hart and I'm delighted to say that she made it to my favorite authors list!
Okay.. Where to start...I don't even remember how I came across this book but I'm happy all the same.
Ruthless Prince is the story of the first daughter of America,Willow Rhoades and her childhood crush and later enemy and fiànce,Logan Thorne.
The story starts with Willow attending her engagement party to which she is an unwilling participant. Her father has signed over a contract which allows the Thorne family, rights over Willow once she turns twenty-one. She is to marry Logan but naturally isn't happy about it. She despises the situation and couldn't for the love of all things figure out why Logan hates her so much. They used to be friends in their teen years and even had a mutual crush on each other but suddenly, something happened and Logan started hating her guts.
At this point, I've read all the books in the trilogy and I have to say that Ms. Hart has done a perfect job in the development of the plot. Small things hinted in the first book are so relevant with the climax that it left me starstruck some times.
Nonetheless to say, the story is absolutely amazing.
I liked Willow's character.Her backbone was admirable in the least. Despite finding herself in a shitty situation, she did not lose her cool and boldly handled it. She was compassionate and lovely and if.. If only she hadn't had that body-betraying her mind reaction, she would have been a 5 star heroine.
Logan...was a complicated character to like. At least in the first book. He's bossy and downright cruel at times. He decides to punish Willow for a crime, she didn't even remember committing at that time, without even hearing her out. He pissed me off at times and his chemistry with Willow wasn't as... how to say it... sizzling..? as I'd hoped it would be. But all in all, he was good enough and definitely redeemed himself in the next book.
The book ends with a cliffhanger. There is so much in this story- secrets, lies, deception, angst and suspense. So much suspense that it had me biting my nails in the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed it !
I loved it!
This was my first book by Stella Hart and I'm delighted to say that she made it to my favorite authors list!
Okay.. Where to start...I don't even remember how I came across this book but I'm happy all the same.
Ruthless Prince is the story of the first daughter of America,Willow Rhoades and her childhood crush and later enemy and fiànce,Logan Thorne.
The story starts with Willow attending her engagement party to which she is an unwilling participant. Her father has signed over a contract which allows the Thorne family, rights over Willow once she turns twenty-one. She is to marry Logan but naturally isn't happy about it. She despises the situation and couldn't for the love of all things figure out why Logan hates her so much. They used to be friends in their teen years and even had a mutual crush on each other but suddenly, something happened and Logan started hating her guts.
At this point, I've read all the books in the trilogy and I have to say that Ms. Hart has done a perfect job in the development of the plot. Small things hinted in the first book are so relevant with the climax that it left me starstruck some times.
Nonetheless to say, the story is absolutely amazing.
I liked Willow's character.Her backbone was admirable in the least. Despite finding herself in a shitty situation, she did not lose her cool and boldly handled it. She was compassionate and lovely and if.. If only she hadn't had that body-betraying her mind reaction, she would have been a 5 star heroine.
Logan...was a complicated character to like. At least in the first book. He's bossy and downright cruel at times. He decides to punish Willow for a crime, she didn't even remember committing at that time, without even hearing her out. He pissed me off at times and his chemistry with Willow wasn't as... how to say it... sizzling..? as I'd hoped it would be. But all in all, he was good enough and definitely redeemed himself in the next book.
The book ends with a cliffhanger. There is so much in this story- secrets, lies, deception, angst and suspense. So much suspense that it had me biting my nails in the end.
I thoroughly enjoyed it !
January 31, 2020
i know i love my jerk heroes but logan......... the guy is beyond annoying and makes it so hard to read this book.
July 29, 2021
3 stars
i've been looking for this series for so long and i finally found it again. i remember reading the whole series in one go a while back because i couldn't believe how messed it up it got at times and i had to know how it ended. like yes there's dark romance but this is seriously DARK guys.
i definitely need to reread these books to review/rate them properly but the world building and setting are a large part of the reason why this has stuck with me despite many dark romance books blending into an unmemorable blur. the high society, politics, and secret cult combo always makes for a great exposition.
i've been looking for this series for so long and i finally found it again. i remember reading the whole series in one go a while back because i couldn't believe how messed it up it got at times and i had to know how it ended. like yes there's dark romance but this is seriously DARK guys.
i definitely need to reread these books to review/rate them properly but the world building and setting are a large part of the reason why this has stuck with me despite many dark romance books blending into an unmemorable blur. the high society, politics, and secret cult combo always makes for a great exposition.
December 23, 2019
Ridiculous and UnBelievable Creepy Nightmare👺
ADULT XXX Horror Story.
The book has a huge problem in that the entire scenario is not believable, unless the reader believes that the entire secret service, FBI, and medical personnel at the hospital Willow was taken to are all in on the conspiracy to do her harm.
There were a number of problems with this plot. I know much of our government in D.C. Is corrupt, but this book takes it to an unbelievable level where not one honest person exists there! Not realistic!
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
I don't normally read books like this one for a reason. They are like horror movies in that they depend on stupid characters and unbelievable scenarios that don't work in real life.
Read at your own risk. I should have turned it back in without 📚reading it. There is no Prince👑, and the book ends in a cliffhanger, losing another 🌟star.
ADULT XXX Horror Story.
The book has a huge problem in that the entire scenario is not believable, unless the reader believes that the entire secret service, FBI, and medical personnel at the hospital Willow was taken to are all in on the conspiracy to do her harm.
There were a number of problems with this plot. I know much of our government in D.C. Is corrupt, but this book takes it to an unbelievable level where not one honest person exists there! Not realistic!
ARC Received from Booksprout🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
I don't normally read books like this one for a reason. They are like horror movies in that they depend on stupid characters and unbelievable scenarios that don't work in real life.
Read at your own risk. I should have turned it back in without 📚reading it. There is no Prince👑, and the book ends in a cliffhanger, losing another 🌟star.
January 28, 2020
I am definitely on the fence with this book. I am starting to read installment 2 and will read which I hope is the final installment 3. Logan is not a dirty alpha that I like and I have liked many in other novels that were very dark characters. I could not connect with him at all. The cult story line among the rich and famous was an attraction but like all cults themes tend to follow basic story lines.
Willow is very naive coming from a home whereas her mother is the Vice President of the US., and has been in the limelight, i.e. press etc., her entire life. She doesn't think on her feet and gets caught in some precarious situations and causes some very bad situations. I hope her character evolves in book 2&3. I would like to see a very strong woman in Willow but so far I don't see that. She's a disappointment and her relationship with Logan (if you can call it that) is nothing but hate sex and being submissive.
He's a monster and she is his victim...a very helpless one. It's a story line that has been done quite a bit and done successfully. Time will tell if this set of novels is able to that.
Willow is very naive coming from a home whereas her mother is the Vice President of the US., and has been in the limelight, i.e. press etc., her entire life. She doesn't think on her feet and gets caught in some precarious situations and causes some very bad situations. I hope her character evolves in book 2&3. I would like to see a very strong woman in Willow but so far I don't see that. She's a disappointment and her relationship with Logan (if you can call it that) is nothing but hate sex and being submissive.
He's a monster and she is his victim...a very helpless one. It's a story line that has been done quite a bit and done successfully. Time will tell if this set of novels is able to that.
January 24, 2020
Unrealistic Drama
So much conspiracy theory stuff. None of it has a place in fiction romance. It made it very hard to read. I skipped multiple pages in my quest to finish.
So much conspiracy theory stuff. None of it has a place in fiction romance. It made it very hard to read. I skipped multiple pages in my quest to finish.
April 18, 2020
This book was so unrealistic it was almost funny...a cringing mess.
did-not-finish
April 18, 2020***DNF***
Not believable to me. I lost interest. Not for me.
Not believable to me. I lost interest. Not for me.
December 22, 2019
"When I was born, my life was signed over to the Thorne family, and now I belonged to him. Forever."
When I read the blurb to the prequel of this series I knew it belonged on my TBR list. Within the first few minutes into Wicked Royals I knew this series would be a must for me. After I devoured Wicked Royals I knew I needed to hop on the Willow & Logan train ASAP. I hadn't been that excited about a new series (not from one of my few fav authors) in forever. As soon as I got my hands on the ARC copy of this one I felt like a kid on Christmas morning, ready to tear it open & not come up for air until I was finished. There was a chance it could be a huge disappointment (its happened w other preludes before), but my gut told me this was going to be amazing. And amazing it was! Ruthless Prince was EVERYTHING I thought it would be and more. It was intense, rage-inducing, exciting, tragic, captivating, suspenseful, & with just enough darkness that I was on the edge of my seat until the very last sentence. It left me with the same intense need to get my hands on the next installment....its SO GOOD.
“You can claim ownership of me, but I’ll never accept it. You’ll never own me, and I’ll never do what you say.”
Book Facts: Told in dual POV, this is book 1 in the Ruthless Rulers series. This series must be read in order, starting with the short prelude Wicked Royals. It does contain triggering situations (mostly to do with sexual acts & punishment) and ends with a cliffy. With Willow's 21st birthday approaching, she has no idea she will soon be the property of the Thornes, and the future wife of Logan Thorne. Logan, her first kiss & the only guy she has ever been attracted to....the same Logan she hates now. There was a time Logan cared deeply for Willow, a time he could never imagining hurting her......that was before she did what she did, ruining his family forever. And the day is approaching that will mark the beginning of his revenge. She will be punished. She will be used. She will break. She will be his wife. And he plans to never let her go.
Timeline of Thoughts:
Starting: I am too amped up over this series!
12%: Why does it always come down to what I am sure is a complete misunderstanding from child/teen-hood? And why can't they just you know, talk it out?
23%: I am really holding out hope that his mom isn't going to be "Okay" or part of the suffering I know Willow is going to deal with.
38%: Poor ole Teddy. Complete side note though.....I need to know wth Willow did to this dude.
50%: I need to know who Q is.
61%: I had a feeling that's what it was. And I truly hope like all asshole antihero bastards he feels like a dumbass & asshole when he figures out the truth.
67%: Why is everyone always convincing her she is crazy? I get it, I totally see where his hated comes from.... but if it stays like this, I'm afraid this will take far too long to become a romance.
69%: I have a feeling she was saying that as a warning not to him, but to who he was talking about in regards to someone else.....I KNOW its not what he thinks. Watch and see.
75%: She seriously needs to "think" before acting..... why do these heroines act on impulsive decisions without weighing the good vs bad? Because that would be too logical.
90%: Its clear where this is headed, but I am far more interested in the "reveal" of the FULL truth & not just what he believes about that night.
Finished: HOLY SHIT! I can't believe it, that was one insane cliffy!
Final Thoughts:
1. Fav Part of Book: The Order stuff absolutely fascinated me because unlike some others who have tried the secret society stuff, this book made it make sense & feel believable.
2. Least Fav Part of Book: It would have to be the things Willow does that aren't a result of her truly thinking it through.
3. Logan: First impression in this book (excluding the prelude) was that he was a grade A a-hole. I honestly figured he had a ridiculous reason to hate her BUT regardless if it is valid or not, I HATE how he treated her. He is clearly a genius and is always one step ahead, but its also clear how he felt about her years ago is resurfacing. He is quite sadistic when it comes to her, but I can totally see him redeeming himself.
4. Willow: First impression in this book (excluding the prelude) was that she was a fighter & stubborn. She is quite naive and sometimes she acted a little entitled, but it is easy to feel sorry for her throughout this book. I appreciated that she didn't even attempt to make excuses for her reactions to him and that her love & protectiveness for her brother was my favorite part. What I didn't like was her inability to truly "think" about the things she did or said (in relation to consequences) before doing them. I am definitely rooting for her.
5. Writing: I am absolutely fascinated with this plot and the characters in this world. Its paced perfectly (including all the drama & "issues) and it kept me glued to the page from start to finish. I haven't liked everything from this author, but this one is definitely a great one for me. If I had to bring up any issue, it would be that the dialogue at times didn't feel as smooth or authentic/natural as the actual story.
"She still deserved everything she got, and I would be the one to give it to her."
Overall, I highly anticipated getting my hands on this after reading the prelude and it 100% delivered. I found myself unable to put it down until the very end, not just wanting but NEEDING to know what happened next. I have a feeling this series might just be her best work to date, and I can't wait for book 2!
“Don’t ever try to leave me again,” he growled. “You’re mine. You always will be.”
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I read the blurb to the prequel of this series I knew it belonged on my TBR list. Within the first few minutes into Wicked Royals I knew this series would be a must for me. After I devoured Wicked Royals I knew I needed to hop on the Willow & Logan train ASAP. I hadn't been that excited about a new series (not from one of my few fav authors) in forever. As soon as I got my hands on the ARC copy of this one I felt like a kid on Christmas morning, ready to tear it open & not come up for air until I was finished. There was a chance it could be a huge disappointment (its happened w other preludes before), but my gut told me this was going to be amazing. And amazing it was! Ruthless Prince was EVERYTHING I thought it would be and more. It was intense, rage-inducing, exciting, tragic, captivating, suspenseful, & with just enough darkness that I was on the edge of my seat until the very last sentence. It left me with the same intense need to get my hands on the next installment....its SO GOOD.
“You can claim ownership of me, but I’ll never accept it. You’ll never own me, and I’ll never do what you say.”
Book Facts: Told in dual POV, this is book 1 in the Ruthless Rulers series. This series must be read in order, starting with the short prelude Wicked Royals. It does contain triggering situations (mostly to do with sexual acts & punishment) and ends with a cliffy. With Willow's 21st birthday approaching, she has no idea she will soon be the property of the Thornes, and the future wife of Logan Thorne. Logan, her first kiss & the only guy she has ever been attracted to....the same Logan she hates now. There was a time Logan cared deeply for Willow, a time he could never imagining hurting her......that was before she did what she did, ruining his family forever. And the day is approaching that will mark the beginning of his revenge. She will be punished. She will be used. She will break. She will be his wife. And he plans to never let her go.
Timeline of Thoughts:
Starting: I am too amped up over this series!
12%: Why does it always come down to what I am sure is a complete misunderstanding from child/teen-hood? And why can't they just you know, talk it out?
23%: I am really holding out hope that his mom isn't going to be "Okay" or part of the suffering I know Willow is going to deal with.
38%: Poor ole Teddy. Complete side note though.....I need to know wth Willow did to this dude.
50%: I need to know who Q is.
61%: I had a feeling that's what it was. And I truly hope like all asshole antihero bastards he feels like a dumbass & asshole when he figures out the truth.
67%: Why is everyone always convincing her she is crazy? I get it, I totally see where his hated comes from.... but if it stays like this, I'm afraid this will take far too long to become a romance.
69%: I have a feeling she was saying that as a warning not to him, but to who he was talking about in regards to someone else.....I KNOW its not what he thinks. Watch and see.
75%: She seriously needs to "think" before acting..... why do these heroines act on impulsive decisions without weighing the good vs bad? Because that would be too logical.
90%: Its clear where this is headed, but I am far more interested in the "reveal" of the FULL truth & not just what he believes about that night.
Finished: HOLY SHIT! I can't believe it, that was one insane cliffy!
Final Thoughts:
1. Fav Part of Book: The Order stuff absolutely fascinated me because unlike some others who have tried the secret society stuff, this book made it make sense & feel believable.
2. Least Fav Part of Book: It would have to be the things Willow does that aren't a result of her truly thinking it through.
3. Logan: First impression in this book (excluding the prelude) was that he was a grade A a-hole. I honestly figured he had a ridiculous reason to hate her BUT regardless if it is valid or not, I HATE how he treated her. He is clearly a genius and is always one step ahead, but its also clear how he felt about her years ago is resurfacing. He is quite sadistic when it comes to her, but I can totally see him redeeming himself.
4. Willow: First impression in this book (excluding the prelude) was that she was a fighter & stubborn. She is quite naive and sometimes she acted a little entitled, but it is easy to feel sorry for her throughout this book. I appreciated that she didn't even attempt to make excuses for her reactions to him and that her love & protectiveness for her brother was my favorite part. What I didn't like was her inability to truly "think" about the things she did or said (in relation to consequences) before doing them. I am definitely rooting for her.
5. Writing: I am absolutely fascinated with this plot and the characters in this world. Its paced perfectly (including all the drama & "issues) and it kept me glued to the page from start to finish. I haven't liked everything from this author, but this one is definitely a great one for me. If I had to bring up any issue, it would be that the dialogue at times didn't feel as smooth or authentic/natural as the actual story.
"She still deserved everything she got, and I would be the one to give it to her."
Overall, I highly anticipated getting my hands on this after reading the prelude and it 100% delivered. I found myself unable to put it down until the very end, not just wanting but NEEDING to know what happened next. I have a feeling this series might just be her best work to date, and I can't wait for book 2!
“Don’t ever try to leave me again,” he growled. “You’re mine. You always will be.”
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2019
Intriguing plot with a promising sequel!
This is book one of a trilogy and it starts out great! The plot is intriguing and I finished the book in almost a single reading! Some form of torture is used on the heroine so beware for the faint hearted! Can't wait for Book 2 !! <3
RATING:
• Overall: 4.5
• Storyline: 4
• Hero/Heroine: 4 / 3.5
• Steam: 3.5
SAFETY:
• Hero: Logan -
• Heroine: Willow -
• Safe sex: No mention of any preventive measures used
• OM/OW: Logan has prior sexual experiences with OW but no mention of OW after he got together with Willow
• Virgin: Heroine only
• Angst: A little due to Willow's mysterious past
• Abuse: Some form of BSDM is used by hero
• Push/Pull: Yes,
• Ending: Cliffhanger (look out for book 2 and 3!!)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book one of a trilogy and it starts out great! The plot is intriguing and I finished the book in almost a single reading! Some form of torture is used on the heroine so beware for the faint hearted! Can't wait for Book 2 !! <3
RATING:
• Overall: 4.5
• Storyline: 4
• Hero/Heroine: 4 / 3.5
• Steam: 3.5
SAFETY:
• Hero: Logan -
• Heroine: Willow -
• Safe sex: No mention of any preventive measures used
• OM/OW: Logan has prior sexual experiences with OW but no mention of OW after he got together with Willow
• Virgin: Heroine only
• Angst: A little due to Willow's mysterious past
• Abuse: Some form of BSDM is used by hero
• Push/Pull: Yes,
• Ending: Cliffhanger (look out for book 2 and 3!!)
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2020
This book is amazing. It has so many different turns in it but boy is it good. Logan, hum, what can I say except he is such an alpha male with a huge chip on his shoulder. The arrogance, the domination, I love it.
Just remember this book is dark so be warned. If dark is your thing then grab this book, you will love it. I don't want to spoil anything by talking to much so just read it!!! I can't wait for book 2 because it does end on a cliff hanger.
Just remember this book is dark so be warned. If dark is your thing then grab this book, you will love it. I don't want to spoil anything by talking to much so just read it!!! I can't wait for book 2 because it does end on a cliff hanger.
Want to read
October 27, 2021Because this is about yet another set of wealthy elite + a secret society, I kept feeling like I was reading the same SH book I already read. I’ll come back to it in a year or two when those books aren’t still so fresh in my mind. Reminder to self: don’t bother reading the prequel – it’s not necessary!
March 3, 2020
Couldn't put it down...
May 2, 2020
This book is ridiculously stupid. The plot is unbelievable - very unrealistic.
December 18, 2019
Oh boy! This is an enticing and intense start to this new series. This is the first book in Willow and Logan's story and it certainly looks like it will be an epic roller coaster ride of powerful emotions, drama, steam, darkness and stunning twists. Do prepare yourself for the cliffhanger at the end of this book in preparation of book two. Of my own accord I am posting a forthright review.
June 24, 2020
It’s been a couple of days since i read this series and i’m not sure how to describe my feelings for this series. I didn’t know how to break my review into three parts for each book so here’s just an enormous rant of how I felt for all the three books combined.
disclaimer: the rant contains spoilers and has a lot of typos.
After I read the prequel I was pumped and excited to find out further about the story. The couple had went from being best friends in the past to hating each other in the present so that made me curious to know more about their relationship. Plus the added drama of both of their families being rivals and being powerful was just the cherry on top of the cake. So with that thought I purchased the first book and I did like it initially.
I really liked the whole concept of secret society and how the main couple are invited to it. That was definitely something different to read about and tbh it made me really happy to finally read a book which was not heavily based on the couple.
But with that being said, the first book took a long time for the story to progress I mean there were barely any scenes with the couple together and the time they ended up actually having a proper conversation together was half way through the first book.
The main guy also does a lot of cruel things to the main girl which really did not make much sense to me and I didn’t think they were justifiable. The heroine is sold to the main guy’s family and the way he behaves with her is insane. People on here call it dark but I call it psychopath. He makes her stay in the basement of his house and he has this weird bdsm vibes to it (btw his parents know how he is treating her and they are OKAY with it). He makes her obey him and threatens her of killing her little brother. He later reveals why he hates her so much and she seems to be clueless about it. (miscommunications plot)
Anyways the story progresses and the heroine is invited into the secret society and in there she reveals her deepest darkest secret that she believes her mother who was the vice president of the country may be involved in killing the president to become the president. This secret later gets revealed on television of an interview of her mother and her. I mean how insane is that? Her mother is the freakin present of the country and such accusations are being thrown at her live?!!
Anyways back to the main couple. The heroine tries to escape the hero’s house and fails and for that the hero as a punishment tells her that he will attach a collar on her neck and will make her crawl on her hands in the hallway of his house so the maids can watch. 🤢 Thankfully he doesn’t actually carry out that punishment but just the thought of that is disgusting.
Along with the insane drama going on with the main couple there is an ongoing drama in the secret society which was literally the only thing which made me want to read further. The main couple really made me want to DNF this book but the whole secret society suspense really bothered me so without much of a choice I had to purchase the series.
I skipped the whole 3rd book and went to the ending to know what happens and gosh it was so NOT worth it.
Honestly this whole series made me so mad and angry. I loathed the couple, they had no chemistry, nothing made me want to ship them. Matter of fact with the way the hero treated the girl I wished she would have abandoned him and found someone else deserving. The hero had no redeeming qualities in him and his actions weren’t justified. He was heartless (not at all in a good way) and his behavior were inhuman. The only aspect of the book that got me hooked was the secret society concept and that as well was utterly disappointing. I expected something more like the illuminati but this was just some elite group playing mind games and plotting against each other. Overall this series was just nasty.
disclaimer: the rant contains spoilers and has a lot of typos.
After I read the prequel I was pumped and excited to find out further about the story. The couple had went from being best friends in the past to hating each other in the present so that made me curious to know more about their relationship. Plus the added drama of both of their families being rivals and being powerful was just the cherry on top of the cake. So with that thought I purchased the first book and I did like it initially.
I really liked the whole concept of secret society and how the main couple are invited to it. That was definitely something different to read about and tbh it made me really happy to finally read a book which was not heavily based on the couple.
But with that being said, the first book took a long time for the story to progress I mean there were barely any scenes with the couple together and the time they ended up actually having a proper conversation together was half way through the first book.
The main guy also does a lot of cruel things to the main girl which really did not make much sense to me and I didn’t think they were justifiable. The heroine is sold to the main guy’s family and the way he behaves with her is insane. People on here call it dark but I call it psychopath. He makes her stay in the basement of his house and he has this weird bdsm vibes to it (btw his parents know how he is treating her and they are OKAY with it). He makes her obey him and threatens her of killing her little brother. He later reveals why he hates her so much and she seems to be clueless about it. (miscommunications plot)
Anyways the story progresses and the heroine is invited into the secret society and in there she reveals her deepest darkest secret that she believes her mother who was the vice president of the country may be involved in killing the president to become the president. This secret later gets revealed on television of an interview of her mother and her. I mean how insane is that? Her mother is the freakin present of the country and such accusations are being thrown at her live?!!
Anyways back to the main couple. The heroine tries to escape the hero’s house and fails and for that the hero as a punishment tells her that he will attach a collar on her neck and will make her crawl on her hands in the hallway of his house so the maids can watch. 🤢 Thankfully he doesn’t actually carry out that punishment but just the thought of that is disgusting.
Along with the insane drama going on with the main couple there is an ongoing drama in the secret society which was literally the only thing which made me want to read further. The main couple really made me want to DNF this book but the whole secret society suspense really bothered me so without much of a choice I had to purchase the series.
I skipped the whole 3rd book and went to the ending to know what happens and gosh it was so NOT worth it.
Honestly this whole series made me so mad and angry. I loathed the couple, they had no chemistry, nothing made me want to ship them. Matter of fact with the way the hero treated the girl I wished she would have abandoned him and found someone else deserving. The hero had no redeeming qualities in him and his actions weren’t justified. He was heartless (not at all in a good way) and his behavior were inhuman. The only aspect of the book that got me hooked was the secret society concept and that as well was utterly disappointing. I expected something more like the illuminati but this was just some elite group playing mind games and plotting against each other. Overall this series was just nasty.
December 23, 2019
Great new series! Logan knew that Willow would one day be his so he has been watching and waiting and now the time is finally come for him to claim her. Willow was given to Logan as a debt owed and even though he hates her he plans to take her and make her submit to him. Fast-paced dark read with loads of drama and suspense. Be advised this is a trilogy so it does end on a cliff-hanger. Looking forward to more in the series! I loved it!
March 21, 2020
Logan and Willow. Contains spoilers.
First off, this is not a love story. Not yet anyway. At the end of this book, which ends in a major cliffhanger, Logan and Willow still hate each other, with a simmering lust for each other buried beneath. But I can see a possible love coming in future books. So I will read book 2.
Second, I almost didn't make it through this book. There were a lot of conspiracy things in this book that were just unbelievable. Number one being, how would the presidential detail of the Secret Service not know about secret passageways in the White House? 100% unbelievable. They may or may not exist in real life, but they exist in the book, and I can't believe that these fictional SS agents wouldn't know they existed. Ridiculous.
Anyway, I ignored the glaring holes for the good of the story, and it was pretty good, but very angsty. Poor Willow is having all rugs ripped out from under her. It seems like there's nothing good lying ahead. But I'm reading book 2, hoping there is light ahead.
First off, this is not a love story. Not yet anyway. At the end of this book, which ends in a major cliffhanger, Logan and Willow still hate each other, with a simmering lust for each other buried beneath. But I can see a possible love coming in future books. So I will read book 2.
Second, I almost didn't make it through this book. There were a lot of conspiracy things in this book that were just unbelievable. Number one being, how would the presidential detail of the Secret Service not know about secret passageways in the White House? 100% unbelievable. They may or may not exist in real life, but they exist in the book, and I can't believe that these fictional SS agents wouldn't know they existed. Ridiculous.
Anyway, I ignored the glaring holes for the good of the story, and it was pretty good, but very angsty. Poor Willow is having all rugs ripped out from under her. It seems like there's nothing good lying ahead. But I'm reading book 2, hoping there is light ahead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2020
Interesting book and well written. However, a lot of time is spent on side stories. Although these side stories are fodder for the main story, it can get very exhausting reading them. I skipped some parts of the side stories and came back to them later when I had more energy.
As for the budding love story, it starts off very dark. The "hero" is fascinating but extremely cruel. He is difficult to love and guts any of his redeeming features as soon as you find them. Honestly, even when I got to the end of the story, I still disliked him very much and, was hoping the heroine found a way to separate from him.
I have read dark romances before but I am yet to see one with this level of cruelty. The cruelty borders on sociopathic behavior and is very troubling.
Anyway, I have just started on the next book. I am hoping that the hero grows on me.
As for the budding love story, it starts off very dark. The "hero" is fascinating but extremely cruel. He is difficult to love and guts any of his redeeming features as soon as you find them. Honestly, even when I got to the end of the story, I still disliked him very much and, was hoping the heroine found a way to separate from him.
I have read dark romances before but I am yet to see one with this level of cruelty. The cruelty borders on sociopathic behavior and is very troubling.
Anyway, I have just started on the next book. I am hoping that the hero grows on me.
December 15, 2019
Loved how dark, alpha, cocky, domineering and sexy Logan is. That was an intense, twisted roller coaster of a ride. You won't be able to put it down or stop reading. There is a cliffhanger so be aware.
December 23, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.
I've been watching Willow Rhoades for years, biding my time, and I know her inside out. I know she's not the pure, innocent little princess she makes herself out to be, and I know every sordid secret she tries to hide. Every dark deed she's committed. She's about to pay for all of those sins, in more ways than one. She doesn't know it yet, but she belongs to me, offered up as payment for a debt incurred by her corrupt family. Now is is finally time for me to take her. Claim her. Own her. As my pretty little captive , she'll discover that she was born to serve. Born to be used. Born to be mine. She'll submt to me, and I won't be gentle about it. I'll control her, punish her, and make her beg for more as she confesses to every last one of her wicked secrets and lies.
Ruthless Prince is the first book the the Ruthless Ruler Trilogy. You too should be warned that this novel may contain disturbing content and triggers. Please heed the warning before diving it.
In Ruthless Prince you are going to meet Willow and Logan. Man to these two have quiet the story to tell. It is dark and intense and will have you one the edge of your seat for most of it. I couldn't put it down. There wasn't a thing about this book that I didn't love about this book. I love good dark romances and this is one of them.. I so can not wait to see what happens and where the lives and these character's take them in the next book Sinful Palace. It can not get here soon enough.
I've been watching Willow Rhoades for years, biding my time, and I know her inside out. I know she's not the pure, innocent little princess she makes herself out to be, and I know every sordid secret she tries to hide. Every dark deed she's committed. She's about to pay for all of those sins, in more ways than one. She doesn't know it yet, but she belongs to me, offered up as payment for a debt incurred by her corrupt family. Now is is finally time for me to take her. Claim her. Own her. As my pretty little captive , she'll discover that she was born to serve. Born to be used. Born to be mine. She'll submt to me, and I won't be gentle about it. I'll control her, punish her, and make her beg for more as she confesses to every last one of her wicked secrets and lies.
Ruthless Prince is the first book the the Ruthless Ruler Trilogy. You too should be warned that this novel may contain disturbing content and triggers. Please heed the warning before diving it.
In Ruthless Prince you are going to meet Willow and Logan. Man to these two have quiet the story to tell. It is dark and intense and will have you one the edge of your seat for most of it. I couldn't put it down. There wasn't a thing about this book that I didn't love about this book. I love good dark romances and this is one of them.. I so can not wait to see what happens and where the lives and these character's take them in the next book Sinful Palace. It can not get here soon enough.
December 20, 2019
I've read a few books by this author and, while her writing is always stellar, her stories seems to sometimes lose me as the series go on. However, the premise for this book sounded intriguing and I decided to give it a shot. Overall, I'm really glad I dove in. In Ruthless Prince, we are taken back to the decadent and wicked world of the order but, this time, with a political bent. I did enjoy the story and the author's writing was, as always, impeccable. Stella Hart created a rich an enticing world that definitely kept my attention. White house intrigue and secret society high-jinx mixed into an enemies to lovers, hate to love you relationship add up to all the ingredients I can't stay away from. Having said that, the relationship tone and premise was very similar to the author's prior series. I also had a very hard time connecting with Willow. She just wasn't a very sympathetic character and came across as whiny and immature. The jury's still out on Logan. I enjoyed him as the villain, but I have a feeling I won't be as fond of him when he inevitably goes soft as the series goes on. Another issue that appears a lot in dark romance is "betraying body" and was utilized here in abundance. I would have loved to see a bit bit more struggle before Willow succumbs to her attraction towards her torturer. Despite these issues, the book had me thoroughly entertained and I will definitely read book two!
December 20, 2019
Holy cow, what an explosive start to this dark, twisted series!!!
This is book one in the Ruthless Rulers series, but please be sure to read the prequel Wicked Royals before reading this book.
Logan has known for quite some time that Willow would be his wife after her twenty-first birthday and he's been looking forward to all the wicked, hurtful things he can do to her. He's hated her for years and he can't wait to get his hands on her. Willow has no idea why Logan hates her so much and she also has no idea she's been promised to him after she turns twenty-one. They are to be married within a year and she is to play the dutiful, loving wife in public, but behind closed doors Logan plans to humiliate and break her for the rest of her life. He wants her miserable and he plans to do everything in his power to make that happen. This is an explosive first book for the series and it ends on a total OMFG cliffhanger that will have you dying for book two, Sinful Palace. I'm quite intrigued as to where this whole story is headed and I'm looking forward to reading more of Willow and Logan's story. This is an absolutely amazing story so far and I highly recommend it!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book one in the Ruthless Rulers series, but please be sure to read the prequel Wicked Royals before reading this book.
Logan has known for quite some time that Willow would be his wife after her twenty-first birthday and he's been looking forward to all the wicked, hurtful things he can do to her. He's hated her for years and he can't wait to get his hands on her. Willow has no idea why Logan hates her so much and she also has no idea she's been promised to him after she turns twenty-one. They are to be married within a year and she is to play the dutiful, loving wife in public, but behind closed doors Logan plans to humiliate and break her for the rest of her life. He wants her miserable and he plans to do everything in his power to make that happen. This is an explosive first book for the series and it ends on a total OMFG cliffhanger that will have you dying for book two, Sinful Palace. I'm quite intrigued as to where this whole story is headed and I'm looking forward to reading more of Willow and Logan's story. This is an absolutely amazing story so far and I highly recommend it!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 22, 2019
This book does have triggers....a ton of triggers. We are talking unhealthy treatment, borderline torture, dubious consent, physical abuse and more. This is not a love story of any kind (right now) and does end with one helluva cliffhanger.
Now that I have that out of the way - holy sh*t, get ready for a government conspiracy, secret society, and revenge story all rolled into one.
This is my first book of Stella’s that I have read and my jaw is still on the floor. I started reading this afternoon and I did not put it down until I finished. When I did, I actually yelled out “No!” because of the cliffhanger - I HAVE to know what happens next. Stella has impressed me beyond expectations with her ability to draw me in and has definitely gained a fan with this first installment of Ruthless Rulers.
In this book (without giving anything away), you will meet Willow and Logan. One is innocent and the other is set on revenge. As the plot unfolds, more secrets, scandals, torture, and jaw dropping events unfold.
If you love a good suspense filled story that will leave you speechless and begging for more, definitely pick this one up. You will not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Now that I have that out of the way - holy sh*t, get ready for a government conspiracy, secret society, and revenge story all rolled into one.
This is my first book of Stella’s that I have read and my jaw is still on the floor. I started reading this afternoon and I did not put it down until I finished. When I did, I actually yelled out “No!” because of the cliffhanger - I HAVE to know what happens next. Stella has impressed me beyond expectations with her ability to draw me in and has definitely gained a fan with this first installment of Ruthless Rulers.
In this book (without giving anything away), you will meet Willow and Logan. One is innocent and the other is set on revenge. As the plot unfolds, more secrets, scandals, torture, and jaw dropping events unfold.
If you love a good suspense filled story that will leave you speechless and begging for more, definitely pick this one up. You will not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2020
Interesting read
Warning: Some scenes in this book may be triggering.
Okay so ‘Ruthless Prince’ is book 1 of a trilogy and wasn’t really my thing but I couldn’t give it a bad review because it was so beautifully written and I don’t want to ruin it for other readers.
So the reason this wasn’t my thing is because its a little darker than what I am used to with bully romance. I will leave it there and let other readers decide for themselves.
‘Ruthless Prince’ was written from POVs of both the heroine and the hero in the book. There’s a lot of build up and I was really anticipating the journey; although I couldn’t help but get frustrated at points with the heroine because she was so helpless.
Logan and Willow’s story is a very hard pill to swallow. I spent the first half of the book wondering what Willow could have done to be hated so much by Logan, which, plot twist, was very shocking. The book also ended on a cliffhanger, so despite not being my style, I had to download ‘Sinful Palace’ book 2 of the trilogy. I didn’t want to read it. I needed to read it. I think it takes a really good author to keep you hooked on a book even when you’re not really used to the narrative.
Warning: Some scenes in this book may be triggering.
Okay so ‘Ruthless Prince’ is book 1 of a trilogy and wasn’t really my thing but I couldn’t give it a bad review because it was so beautifully written and I don’t want to ruin it for other readers.
So the reason this wasn’t my thing is because its a little darker than what I am used to with bully romance. I will leave it there and let other readers decide for themselves.
‘Ruthless Prince’ was written from POVs of both the heroine and the hero in the book. There’s a lot of build up and I was really anticipating the journey; although I couldn’t help but get frustrated at points with the heroine because she was so helpless.
Logan and Willow’s story is a very hard pill to swallow. I spent the first half of the book wondering what Willow could have done to be hated so much by Logan, which, plot twist, was very shocking. The book also ended on a cliffhanger, so despite not being my style, I had to download ‘Sinful Palace’ book 2 of the trilogy. I didn’t want to read it. I needed to read it. I think it takes a really good author to keep you hooked on a book even when you’re not really used to the narrative.
December 25, 2019
Old Wine in New Bottle
Stella Hart has come up with yet another elite dark romance, secret societies and contract. Ruthless Rulers is a trilogy with a new theme where the father selling the female lead within a few weeks of her birth, to a family from a secret society, to get married to the son of the family with the clause, and he can do whatever to her. Willow the sold and Logan, the owner had a short love story when they were teenagers. But something changed in Logan which made him hate and neglect Willow. What will happen when she comes to know the truth or is there most profound truth that Logan has to know is the remaining story.
Though the theme is new, the first book, Ruthless Prince, misses the thrills she had in her previous books, I felt the first book is little draggy compared to the book 1 in her other series. Waiting for the remaining story in the upcoming books
PS: Stella has proved her trademark in writing dark romance series by mentioning the cloak and dagger from her previous series Dark Dynasty.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Stella Hart has come up with yet another elite dark romance, secret societies and contract. Ruthless Rulers is a trilogy with a new theme where the father selling the female lead within a few weeks of her birth, to a family from a secret society, to get married to the son of the family with the clause, and he can do whatever to her. Willow the sold and Logan, the owner had a short love story when they were teenagers. But something changed in Logan which made him hate and neglect Willow. What will happen when she comes to know the truth or is there most profound truth that Logan has to know is the remaining story.
Though the theme is new, the first book, Ruthless Prince, misses the thrills she had in her previous books, I felt the first book is little draggy compared to the book 1 in her other series. Waiting for the remaining story in the upcoming books
PS: Stella has proved her trademark in writing dark romance series by mentioning the cloak and dagger from her previous series Dark Dynasty.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2020
Secret societies and some warped parents
Ruthless Prince is the first book in the Ruthless Rulers series by Stella Hart. Right now I am sort of torn by this book and it took me a while to mull over how to review it after I finished reading it. As it is the first book in a trilogy and each book is the continuing story of Logan Thorne and Willow Rhoades I realize that I cannot judge this story fully quite yet. However, this first book starts with an interesting concept for a story-line that is quite dark and filled with anger, cruelty, secret societies and some messed up parents. While the story-line grabbed me the characters sort of left me felling that they are not flushed out fully and instead they seemed almost two-dimensional instead of multi-dimensional. I will have to see what happens in the next book of the trilogy to see what happens next and maybe the author will give the reader more depth to the characters.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Ruthless Prince is the first book in the Ruthless Rulers series by Stella Hart. Right now I am sort of torn by this book and it took me a while to mull over how to review it after I finished reading it. As it is the first book in a trilogy and each book is the continuing story of Logan Thorne and Willow Rhoades I realize that I cannot judge this story fully quite yet. However, this first book starts with an interesting concept for a story-line that is quite dark and filled with anger, cruelty, secret societies and some messed up parents. While the story-line grabbed me the characters sort of left me felling that they are not flushed out fully and instead they seemed almost two-dimensional instead of multi-dimensional. I will have to see what happens in the next book of the trilogy to see what happens next and maybe the author will give the reader more depth to the characters.
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
March 7, 2020
Not for the faint of heart at all. If you struggle with dark romance due to the potential abuse or mistreatment at the beginning of or during the romantic relationship is forming, this isn't for you. Even if you don't mind that, there may be parts you choose to skip. In most scenes, you won't miss too much information if you skip things. Besides dealing with the issues of abuse and complicated romantic entanglements, this book and the ones that follow are filled with intrigue, secret societies, and secrets. I really enjoyed that part of this series, almost more than getting to see how the main characters' relationship went from toxic to wholesome. Spoiler alert here: it does have a happily ever after ending when you get to the end of the series. So if you don't like reading dark romance if it has an unhappy ending, that won't be a problem here.
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