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Gifted Academy #2

Ruthless Idols

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I knew being the only Norm at Gifted Academy would be hard and dangerous, but I didn’t expect to be tossed out of a window. Also didn’t expect to be saved by one of the Magnificent Four.

Bryce brought me back from the brink of death, but he did more than heal my broken bones. He weakened my defenses and carved a place in my heart.

He’s not the only one vying for my attention. Rufio, Phoenix, and Morpheus have all changed their attitudes toward me, and recklessly, I want to know where it will lead.

But a complicated romance with four ruthless Idols should be the least of my worries. Powerful players are closing in, getting ready to either use or destroy me. I don’t know which one is worse.

443 pages, ebook

First published September 12, 2019

1669 people are currently reading
1588 people want to read

About the author

Michelle Hercules

75 books1,840 followers

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5 stars
3,151 (45%)
4 stars
2,502 (35%)
3 stars
1,055 (15%)
2 stars
197 (2%)
1 star
74 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 389 reviews
Profile Image for Sentranced Jem.
1,229 reviews611 followers
September 15, 2019
If Wicked Gods was the PG version of this series, Ruthless Idols is definitely the R-Rated version.

Ruthless Idols was everything Wicked Gods wasn't (that's saying something since I really enjoyed the book), plus more.....so much more!

The chemistry between these characters just went up the scale to the point where I can't even count and don't even want to since I am drowning in their story.

Michelle Hercules has absolutely ruined me with this book. Daisy and her guy are such amazing characters. Daisy is a force to be reckoned with!
The plot twists and constant adventure didn't feel overwhelming and that is a true art form in itself. so Bravo Hercules 👏🏼

I don't know when the book 3 is coming out but rest assured I am waiting with baited breath.

I should put it out there that there is a part in this book that may be a trigger warning to some so be aware of that as you go into this book.
Profile Image for Caroline.
543 reviews169 followers
October 19, 2023
Honestly this one was a bit slower, but the ending was sooooo satisfying. I think any reader could tell what was happening to Daisy, so it was frustrating that it took everyone else in the book like 1000 years to figure out what was changing. The story did get a bit repetitive at times when we hit the like 15th attempt on Daisy's life. It's a little wild to me that this entire story so far has been like 3 weeks.

Also, I'm annoyed that Daisy is withholding information from the 4 guys, and alternatively, the 4 guys are withholding information from Daisy. Like, if you guys all love each other sooo much, let's communicate ppl!! But i guess they don't trust each other or whatever...but it's frustrating...haha

Anyways, the ending was so satisfying. I loved watching Daisy be a bad bitch. My heart was breaking for Phoenix - what his dad was doing to him was so completely fucked up (check triggers!). Also, Daisy's powers are BADASS. I have never seen these types of powers before in a book. I did not see them coming at allll. Good for her.

On to book 3!
Profile Image for CeCe.
3,612 reviews109 followers
March 5, 2020
Heroine: Daisy
Heroes: Bryce, Rufio, Morpheous, and Phoenix
Genre: RH

I won’t be continuing the series. I finished book 2 because I wanted to know about Daisy’s possible powers and the diary.

A lot of things were placed under the rug. Such as how the certain students were being murdered by drugs. Plus, the Idols usage of drugs in the treehouse bothered me.

I disconnected with Daisy in this book. I felt a stronger connection with her in book 1. Plus, at times, I did not understand what was so special about Daisy that the 4 Idols cared for her so deeply. I Love RH stories, but there were reasons I could not explain, it felt as if Daisy was cheating on the Idols when she was having sex with one and the other discovered it just minutes after. It felt wrong. I don't usually feel that way RH stories and I have read MANY. I did not care for Daisy in this one. Every time Daisy had sex with one of the Idols, she made it sound like they were her regular hook ups.

I did enjoy reading about the twists that this book had which kept me reading. I skimmed the scenes where the Daisy was intimate with the 4 Idols. As I mentioned, they felt like hook ups.

The entire romance between Toby and Rosie (Daisy's sister) should have been eliminated. The whole Toby and Rosie romance felt like a filler to make the word count. Toby is what 18? Rosie is what 15? That felt wrong. I think Rosie should have found herself a job to help support the family. I did not care for the little sister at all.

Also, regarding to the writing, there was too many switch in POVs. I blame that for disconnecting so quickly. There were times when I did not know which hero's POV I was reading. I had to go back and double check. A seasoned beta reader should have pointed this out. Maybe instead of giving the heroes POVs, there should have been a POV from Mr. X or the principal. After awhile I did not care what the heroes were thinking. Their thoughts were repetitive.

There were also scenes that did not tug at my heart as I expected them. Example when The execution of that entire scene could have been written with more gut. Nonetheless, this is all my opinion of the story and the characters. You may feel 100% differently. Reading is subjective.

The story started off pretty promising and then just went flat.

Trigger warning:
Profile Image for omega’s rights activist.
193 reviews29 followers
March 16, 2025
4 stars. Plot twist was obvious but I liked it. If you like this kind of book, you know exactly what you’re in for
Profile Image for ❀ Crystal ✿ -  PEACE ☮ LOVE ♥ BOOKS .
2,532 reviews308 followers
February 8, 2021
I have gotten so sucked into this series. The book picks up right where the last one ended. This time the guys can all admit they don't hate Daisy but it's hard for them to admit she may mean more to them-she's still just a Norm. Things are still not all roses and sunshine for the them all and things only get worse when Bryce uncovers a HUGE secret from Daisy's past. The same secrets that have kept her and her sister on the run for the past seven years. Danger is always around the corner and even if it's not coming directly from the guys anymore, the mean girls in school are angrier than ever. There are multiple attempts on Daisy's life. Attempts that would and should kill any Norm. Somehow though, Daisy is either the luckiest B on the planet or someone somewhere is looking out for her. The guys can't always be there to protect her and the world is a cruel place for Norms like Daisy. I loved this book and it only got better as it went on. The guys finally give up their destroy Daisy plot and surprise surprise man up about their feelings. She hooks up with a couple of them but life is always getting in the way. One of her men is having 'insane' visions and one is still under his fathers abusive thumb. The brother's mother and headmistress at the school is keeping secrets. Daisy has so many questions and far too few answers. Things only get worse when weird things start happening around her. I didn't think it was hard to put together what was going on but for the sake of the review let's just say things are about to drastically change for everyone ;) The end has me so pumped I'm literally going to finish this and jump right in. This is a really great series and I'm so glad I randomly gave it a shot.
Profile Image for Jypsy .
1,524 reviews72 followers
September 12, 2019
Thank you to Social Butterfly and the author for an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Ruthless Idols
By: Michelle Hercules

*REVIEW* 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Daisy, the norm, has created a storm. That's the story of Ruthless Idols(second in a series, picking up where the first book ended): Daisy is a force of nature with the power to change everything, and regardless of her knowledge, or lack thereof, about the events transpiring, fate has plans for this girl. The guys, idols, are definitely an important part of the bigger picture, but I wonder if any or all of them might end up as collateral damage. Who knows? For now, this story answers about as many questions as it, in turn, creates. We learn much more about many things, but we're left with numerous things unanswered. The narrative is sharp, unpredictable, engrossing and thrilling. Twists and turns are everywhere. Being told from multiple points of view only adds to the suspense. Daisy is a strong heroine with sass and intelligence. She's survived so far, and she is stronger now. The guys are, obviously, smoking hot and mysterious, and all four have distinct voices. I'm glad they are not clones of each other. The author has written these characters with thoughtfulness and individuality, and the story is better for it because it's not repetitive or boring. I read this book fairly quickly and found it entertaining and engaging. I think readers of young adult fantasy/paranormal fiction will enjoy this story. Just be prepared for an up down all around ride!
Profile Image for Alaina.
7,356 reviews203 followers
October 19, 2019
Ugh, I can't wait to dive into the next book of this series!!

Ruthless Idols was so freaking good. I loved all the twists and turns each chapter gave me. Plus getting more pov's from the guys was equally entertaining - especially when it came to them figuring out how Daisy works into their lives. They all love her, and it's definitely the same for her, yet I'm still hanging on the edge of my seat for the last guy to man up and say it.

Hey, actions speak louder than words and these guys definitely know how to show it! I was so happy with all the smutty stuff I got in this book. It made me so happy and now I need for all of them to be in one happy little harem.

Besides love being in the air today, this series is definitely upping the mystery mythological ways. It's intriguing that an idol was forced away from her powers a long long time ago. Yet, certain people were looking for her descendants to see if anyone of them will soon develop them.

Of course, nothing really starts to show until a certain untimely death occurs. Or maybe it didn't. So much happened in this book that I'm still trying to wrap my brain around it all. The ending was so good and I am so happy that Phoenix's dad, who was a major dick, got what he deserved. It was about god damn time and I'm so happy that they were all there.

No idea what's still going on the Principal's mind.. but I'm sure things are going to get even twisted once everyone realizes who is dead and who isn't. I seriously can't wait for the next book!!
Profile Image for Kimberly Garner.
1,336 reviews29 followers
September 21, 2019
OMGoshhhhhhhhhhhh SO SO good. I absolutely am loving this series so much. I am bummed I have to wait for the third book. These cliff hangers can suck it. However I have come to expect them from this genre. This book is so good, with even more twists and turns, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. I love bully romance, but when you add in something as kickass as God,s and demigods it is just that much better.
I read this book in just a couple of hours, the characters are so awesome, I want them to be my friends. I need to track this author down and make her my friend, cause damn I love the way she writes. You can look at all past reviews and I have never said that before. I hope the author keeps the same writing style for the rest of her career, and I really hope everyone reads this series because it really is something special. The story is told in multiple POV.
Profile Image for Emma James.
Author 30 books1,497 followers
January 25, 2023
So good!
We learn more.
Daisy becomes more.
All the sub characters play their roles well.
Really good series so far.
Profile Image for ⊹ Gabriela | Asternyx ⊹.
639 reviews506 followers
March 25, 2023
Actual rating: 3.5🌟

What to expect:
∘ New Adult
∘ Paranormal Bullly Romance
∘ Academy setting
∘ Multiple POV
��� Reverse Harem - 4 powerful love interests: Rufio, Bryce, Morpheus, Phoenix
∘ Secrets, betrayals
∘ Intriguing plot developments
Tropes:
∘ Hate to Love
∘ Insta-Lust
∘ "Touch her and you die"

Trigger Warnings: bullying, physical and emotional abuse, abuse by a parent, drugs, past trauma, murder, rape


Thoughts
The threat to Daisy's life only grows more pressing with each passing moment, as her enemies become more numerous and ruthless. The plot thickens as new secrets and revelations emerge from every angle, complicating matters even further.

As the stakes continue to rise, the romance takes a bit of a backseat, but the bond forming between the characters is no less compelling. However, it did feel less intense than in the first book.

Unfortunately, there was one particular aspect of the story that didn't sit well with me: the relationship between Tobi and Daisy's sister. Not only did I find it to be an unnecessary development, but the sister's attitude really grated on my nerves as well.
Profile Image for Zen.
2,983 reviews
June 16, 2024
4 stars

I'm a little conflicted about this story. The concept is fun and lots of conflict and angst without over doing the angst. My problem is with the writing at times. The story and sometimes the dialogue feels a bit clunky and doesn't always flow well. I do enjoy the story and of course will continue on, but I'm hoping the storytelling becomes just a bit smoother.
Profile Image for Bookishgames.
229 reviews85 followers
August 15, 2021
Sometimes, I feel like I'm cursed with second book of series. I just couldn't see past the slut shaming and all the problematic topics in this one. Also, even if I love the boys (especially Phoenix), I had a hard time with Daisy. She eas weak, and prefered to let her hormones dictate her brain, which I thought was seriously repetitive after 100 pages. At least, the ending was mind blowing. I'll see if the third book can changr my opinion, now that Daisy knows about her true identity.
Profile Image for Rachel.
248 reviews31 followers
January 23, 2024
Book 2 of this Academy Demi-God Paranormal Why Choose series has caught my attention and I'm already listening to book 3.

Once the four MMC Idols (this world version of Demi Gods) stopped being such massive Donkeys the storyline and all its mysteries started to pick up and I'm intrigued.



There are still so many unanswered questions about this world, the past, and the agendas of all those secret factions working in the background. I'm off to learn what I can from the next book.

BTW the audiobook version is still not great but I'm still listening to them so I guess it's bearable. I probably would have preferred to read this series though.
Profile Image for Mom Reads Romance.
712 reviews26 followers
April 12, 2024
DNF 25%. I just cannot read this crap. How is this getting such high reviews? Poorly written. Dumb trope. Reads like teenage angst at best.
There was zero time between the teen boys bullying this child to being in love. 🙄 Where is the build up? Where is the suspense?
None of this reads as sexy and suspenseful to me. It reads as trying too hard and immature.

RH✅

KU✅

Finished series✅

Assuming a hea✅
Profile Image for Mummy's Naughty Corner.
1,513 reviews88 followers
February 6, 2021
Well the story is starting to come together. She's turned into an Idol after being healed but it seems like her blood line may not be as innocent as she thinks. The guys are still being twats at times and school life is heating up. The guys parents are all as bad as each other and none of them will win parent of the year.
Profile Image for Missy Brown.
1,750 reviews30 followers
September 26, 2019
What a great followup to Wicked Gods!! The hook got in deep with WG, and I was very much looking forward to Ruthless Idols, and I was not disappointed.

Ruthless Idols picks right up where book one ends. Daisy was thrown out the window. Dying, and bleeding. None other than Bryce saving her. I knew that there would be consequences for this action. We had so many questions, like what will the healing do to Daisy? What did Bryce actually do to her? Exactly what will happen next? How will this effect everyone? Guess what, we get those answers here. Once everything starts, it does not let up until the end.

The guys are not really where i want them yet. We still get them hot and cold. But man those times when they are hot, they sure do burn. I really do not have a favorite, i am still on and off with them.

Overall, this was a impressive second book in the GIfted Academy series that has me needing book three like yesterday!!! Well done Michelle!!!
Profile Image for Annie.
68 reviews
December 10, 2019
The second book heats up even more, and has great twists and turns and is more fast-paced then the first. The back story is discussed further and the bullying ceases as her harem interaction stops this occurring, as the boys realise their feelings but others will continue attacks.

Trigger alert with sexual abuse/molestation between one of the boys and his father, this is not detailed in-depth but is mentioned and discussed.

Profile Image for Katrina G.
722 reviews39 followers
January 11, 2021
It's not often I love a second book more than a first book, but here we are. This was everything I could have hoped for and more. The relationship between Daisy and all the other guys progressed pretty quickly, not that I'm complaining. I loved her time spent with all of them. The only thing I didn't really like, is that it seems like she has a secret with each of them, which means they're all kind of lying to each other in a way.

What surprised me more than the blossoming RH, was the plot. And that fact that there actually was one.
Profile Image for Melissa.
249 reviews2 followers
Read
November 17, 2019
I don’t even know where to begin. I was so excited to read this book and it definitely did NOT disappoint. I am ready to go find my own harem but I doubt it would be as fun as these guys :)

I really enjoy when the books is written from multiple POV’s. It gives you an understanding of what motivates the characters and what is driving the story more than just from the MC’s perspective.

The book moved at a great pace. Not too fast where you couldn’t keep up and not so slow that you were begging to get on with it already. Some things were answered while others were just getting started. It definitely wetted my appetite for MORE!! Now the agony of waiting until Book 3 is released. But if this one was any indication it’ll be worth it!!
Profile Image for Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) .
2,828 reviews116 followers
September 5, 2019
I’m completely blown away by just how crazy amazing this story is! Book 2 gives us more of everyone and everything and I can’t wait to figure out just what fate has instore for Daisy! Even just a regular norm can change the world and change is happening, even if some aren’t ready for it! The arrogance of the Idols has made them vulnerable and it’s going to cost them heavily!

Hercules never ceases to amaze me with her brilliant writing and her ability to craft such intricate webs of twists and turns! I’m always on the edge of my seat and even when I think I know what’s going on I’m stunned into silence still every time!
1,641 reviews6 followers
September 4, 2019
The second in this series and was so excited to be able to read it. This one picks up right after book one with her being healed and goes from there. Of course her problems or the threats and people after her doesn't stop there. I was seriously hooked and kept on edge with all the twists this book had but absolutely could not get enough of them. Loved every character and honestly can't wait and need more. Just so good!
Profile Image for Monica.
1,530 reviews
September 4, 2019
What a book. I couldn't put it down once I started. A lot happens in this book. I don't want to spoil anything so I will keep this review shorter. Things progress with Daisy and the 4 Idols. Things also progress with Daisy and her nemesis. Big surprises are in store for everyone. If you liked the first book, you will love this one. I can't wait for the next one to see what happens next.


*I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
Profile Image for Maddye.
417 reviews7 followers
April 5, 2021
Once again, super addictive, exciting and finallyyyyy getting the answers to some questions and the secrets that have been kept!

Absolutely brutal world but I’m loving all the elements to the story! I was able to follow the POV jumps a lot better in this book then the previous and it’s enjoyable getting to know each character; their personalities, thoughts and what makes them tick.

Loving this series!
Profile Image for Angela James.
1,411 reviews14 followers
September 24, 2019
Noooo

Noooo say it ain't so! Another series that I've become obsessed with only to take a nose dive off a cliff and the next book isn't out yet (cries all the tears and flails wildly) I thought I was ready but I wasn't ready lol This book was amazing y'all and I'm so hooked, I feel like a junkie waiting for my next fix!
Profile Image for Bookiechick  Reviews.
725 reviews24 followers
August 28, 2020
This world has taken over. I have so many questions and thoughts. So many secrets, some bombs dropped and one hell of a revelation at the end. Where is the story going to go next?
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This is such a mind blowing series. There are games played on all sides and you don’t quite know who’s side is on whims and which is good and bad and I’m here for it! There’s so much suspense and excitement, and the anticipation is through the roof. The plot is such a mind web that when the bombs drop its significant no matter how small.
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I’m in love with this series and the characters. There’s so much intricate details and scenarios that you think are going to lead one way but then it goes another. It’s truly enthralling seeing the web untangle and the pace in which it does is the best torture.
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I cannot wait to see what happens in book 3! Michelle has written one hell of a series.
Profile Image for TheDailyKaylee.
362 reviews71 followers
September 9, 2020
Off to the next I go

Book 1 of 4 in this reverse harem bully romance series! Throughout this book we watch relationships in the harem change. From good, to bad, to good again. We also get answers of who Daisy truly is and what her purpose is in a world full of beings with God like powers. I loved everything about this book BUTTT, even though Daisy doesn’t just take the bullying lying down, I do wish she would have made the guys grovel a bit more. Honestly, the way the author wrote her scenes, the progression of the relationships flow nicely, I just wish they did a little more groveling. I feel like only Bryce really groveled at all, and he wasn’t even a part of the initial bullying. But overall, it was still an amazing book. The story is still going strong, and I’m off to the next book!
Profile Image for Cheri.
906 reviews13 followers
April 20, 2023
Still having a good time with this series. Story picks up as Daisy is thrown out the window in a Idol attack. Bryce manages to help her and unlocks a new ability he never knew he had. He and Daisy grow closer and I loved seeing how much he cared about her. He ended up on my shit list for how he treated her over her father's diary. Phoenix really grew on me in this book especially after seeing what he had to endure at home. My only complaint is that his father deserved a more detailed comeuppance. I felt robbed with how quickly it ended. I'll admit that Rosie annoyed me in this story. I found her behavior childish but tbf she's only 15 so her reaction was age appropriate. Daisy really came into her own and I really loved reading each guy's POV. Their sex scenes were ridiculously hot. Got more answers but still had more questions. On to the next book.
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