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Diamond Lake #1
The Burn
Written by USA Today Bestselling Authors K.L. Middleton and Cassie Alexandra
I didn't think there could be anything worse than losing my parents... until I changed schools and became the target of the A-squad - the cruel and popular a-holes of Diamond Lake High. The worst of the group? Chase Adams. An arrogant, rich, hell-raiser who gets his thrills by street racing, partying, and playing games. This year he and his crowd have it out for me.
They think they can shake me. Ruin me. Break me.
What they don't realize is that I've already been to hell and back.
If I have to return, it won't be alone.
A new adult bully romance featuring snobby, power-hungry, dangerous teens against the girl who refused to bend.
315 pages, Paperback
Published September 17, 2019
1872 people are currently reading
1546 people want to read
About the author
K.L. Middleton
56 books227 followersI am a wife and mother of two girls, Cassie and Allie. I live in Minnesota and, yes, our winters are legendary! I believe this has a lot to do with my passion for reading and writing, which is something I'd like to make a full time career of sometime in the future. Right now my days are filled with chasing after children in my daycare but at night I chase after my dreams of becoming a popular writer. Most of my books are written with young adults in mind but I am ecstatic when I hear that readers of all ages enjoy them. It's a great motivator and pushes me to keep writing, even when I'm exhausted from wiping noses all day long!
Also writes YA books as Kristen Middleton.
Also writes YA books as Kristen Middleton.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 25, 2019
Book 2 can’t come quick enough.
41/2 stars read.
I thought I was going to be over HSBR but this one pretty much got me hooked. I think the hero and heroine of the story nailed it for me but what had me so liking it is the characters in this book and that’s pretty amazing for me.
Chase and MacKenzie are totally different from one another but yet the chemistry and sparks really doesn’t get off quick, but a little slower which I like. I however do enjoy when you have a girlfriend/ex girlfriend who goes all psycho and then what would a story be if you don’t have a good circle of friends. I do enjoy the POVS between Chase, MacKenzie and Mattie. I unfortunately did come across some typos but I still enjoyed it though. Now the rest of the characters I’m so curious about. Sonny and Kara. Jason.
41/2 stars read.
I thought I was going to be over HSBR but this one pretty much got me hooked. I think the hero and heroine of the story nailed it for me but what had me so liking it is the characters in this book and that’s pretty amazing for me.
Chase and MacKenzie are totally different from one another but yet the chemistry and sparks really doesn’t get off quick, but a little slower which I like. I however do enjoy when you have a girlfriend/ex girlfriend who goes all psycho and then what would a story be if you don’t have a good circle of friends. I do enjoy the POVS between Chase, MacKenzie and Mattie. I unfortunately did come across some typos but I still enjoyed it though. Now the rest of the characters I’m so curious about. Sonny and Kara. Jason.
August 29, 2019
It was pretty good. It didn't quite end cliffhanger per se but you'd want to continue the series. I love the "burn" on someone who decided to mess with her!!
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May 20, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/4/2020)! 🎁
August 30, 2019
So this book was recommended on Facebook so I gave it a go. Let me start by saying this was my first time reading a book by these authors and I think they have a lot of potential...
First things first tho...When I read the blurb on goodreads and then read the book, the MMC wasn’t anything as described in this book. He wasn’t this arrogant, rich, hell-raiser, a**hole prick.. I actually thought he was more on the wimpy side, definitely not your usual alpha male that are in these type of books. Also where was the street racing? Would like to see more of that.
I really think this could have been better if Chase was what was described as in the blurb and that Mackenzie was also bullied by Chase and his crew rather it all being more of Mattie and her little click. I really didn’t have an issue with Mackenzie being harassed by Mattie because it was entertaining, but was more of Chase didn’t do any bullying nor did he seem to have a mean bone whatsoever...which was a disappointment. Wheres the bad boy hell-raiser that likes to play games? Supposedly they’re all wealthy? I did not get that impression at all with Chase or the other MC’s. Which usually is the reason why they’re arrogant a**holes. Lol So I am hoping in the 2nd book we get a different Chase. There really wasn’t much hottest in this book, so I’m hoping that changes too. ;) wink
I felt more chemistry between Sonny and Kara then I did with the two MC’s, so I would like to see more chemistry between Chase and Mackenzie in the next book.
On a good note tho, I LOVE that the FMC was strong, so that was a bonus, because Mackenzie was definitely that! It kept my attention and has a good storyline. Also I’d like to point out how well the Authors captured there age group. You definitely could tell they were 17/18 years old. Most books out there with this genre sound more in there early 20’s then teenagers.
So will I continue on to the next book? The answer is yes, I will continue the series just because I want to see where the Authors takes us with this story and I want to see what happens with Mackenzie and Chase. I hope the Authors gives us some answers on who attacked Mackenzie? Will Chase find out who damaged his car? Will Mattie get what’s coming to her?
February 6, 2024
DNF’d at 27%. Why? If you don’t care for spoilers I caught up to 27%, read on.
Full of pig men. One guy was meant to be her friend and only wanted to make a bet on who could fuck her first? Yikes.
Planned to stand her up at the dance to prove that he could break her heart and win her back? Double yikes.
Some people might find this book enjoyable, but I did not. I’ll provide 2 stars because the writing was quite good but I couldn’t stand ANY of the guys and I know damn well, she’d end up with Chase who’s just constantly dickish.
Maybe I’m too old for books like this. Either way, it made me sick to the stomach and I’ve decided I can’t finish it.
Full of pig men. One guy was meant to be her friend and only wanted to make a bet on who could fuck her first? Yikes.
Planned to stand her up at the dance to prove that he could break her heart and win her back? Double yikes.
Some people might find this book enjoyable, but I did not. I’ll provide 2 stars because the writing was quite good but I couldn’t stand ANY of the guys and I know damn well, she’d end up with Chase who’s just constantly dickish.
Maybe I’m too old for books like this. Either way, it made me sick to the stomach and I’ve decided I can’t finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2026
Idk how to feel about this book. One one hand, I enjoyed it; it was light, easy, and entertaining enough to read. On the other, everyone’s a doormat and has the survival and detective skills of a wet piece of paper. Chase immediately believed Mattie and then the Freemont kid just because he “knew” them. The story was kinda all over the place with the romance developing almost out of nowhere. In fact I think it was so uninteresting and therefore so realistic that it came off as lacking in chemistry. Because people can develop crushes based on virtually nothing.
March 10, 2020
Had so much potential but failed.
So this was recommended to me, I liked the synopsis so here I am. I liked the fact the story was set in a town, rather than just high school all the time. I also liked the introduction of characters and how they interacted with each other....this said it just seemed to lack something, I don't know why but at one point I could have happily just stopped reading and started another book but I hate doing that and like to see a book to the end. I think for me the plot lacked depth and grit, Chase wasnt 'alpha' enough for me the way he let his pyscho ex fool him and manipulate him and she in turn took things way to far, it just seemed unbelievable. A part of me wants to read the next book but the price is too steep and reviews not that great so for me I won't bother...sorry! I hate leaving negative reviews in any way but this just wasn't for me!!
So this was recommended to me, I liked the synopsis so here I am. I liked the fact the story was set in a town, rather than just high school all the time. I also liked the introduction of characters and how they interacted with each other....this said it just seemed to lack something, I don't know why but at one point I could have happily just stopped reading and started another book but I hate doing that and like to see a book to the end. I think for me the plot lacked depth and grit, Chase wasnt 'alpha' enough for me the way he let his pyscho ex fool him and manipulate him and she in turn took things way to far, it just seemed unbelievable. A part of me wants to read the next book but the price is too steep and reviews not that great so for me I won't bother...sorry! I hate leaving negative reviews in any way but this just wasn't for me!!
July 7, 2021
terrible <3
December 8, 2019
There were a few times during this read when I thought I would like to give up on the story - the guys were dickheads most of the time. One example of this (other than the main plot being a bet between two guys about who could sleep with the heroine first)? The moment when our hero said they shouldn't call the cops after his love interest was tazed at a party - because it would mean the party got shut down, and also he'd probably have to deal with his psycho ex's dad and he just couldn't be bovvered with that).
In addition to the above sort of shit, there was the usual girl-on-girl hate that you often get with these types of stories. The story probably could have used a little bit more polishing too, before being published, as there were some inconsistencies that could be ironed out - like when they decide not to play another game of pool until their friends return, but then suddenly they're playing pool with no segue into that decision. Another example is how the hero believes what others say about the heroine, and suddenly starts hating her again ... until he suddenly starts not hating her again, with no reason spelled out.
Despite all of the above, I kept reading this book. Unlike with other stories where I've hated the hero from the get go, I guess in this case I felt like there was maybe something redeeming about him and I wanted to find out if I was right. It was also quite an easy book to read, and I didn't find it dragging at any point. Maybe that's because it didn't have much depth to it or something. Either way, the narrative kept me reading.
I'm not entirely sure I will read on when the next book comes out, but I guess time will tell.
In addition to the above sort of shit, there was the usual girl-on-girl hate that you often get with these types of stories. The story probably could have used a little bit more polishing too, before being published, as there were some inconsistencies that could be ironed out - like when they decide not to play another game of pool until their friends return, but then suddenly they're playing pool with no segue into that decision. Another example is how the hero believes what others say about the heroine, and suddenly starts hating her again ... until he suddenly starts not hating her again, with no reason spelled out.
Despite all of the above, I kept reading this book. Unlike with other stories where I've hated the hero from the get go, I guess in this case I felt like there was maybe something redeeming about him and I wanted to find out if I was right. It was also quite an easy book to read, and I didn't find it dragging at any point. Maybe that's because it didn't have much depth to it or something. Either way, the narrative kept me reading.
I'm not entirely sure I will read on when the next book comes out, but I guess time will tell.
January 18, 2025
whoever rated this more than one star needs to be checked into a mental institution.
everything about this book made me want to dnf it, but i pulled through because i love writing scathing reviews.
and when i say everything, i mean everything. the writing was horrid, the dialogue actually made me want to gouge my eyes out (what teenager actually talks like that???), and the "chemistry" between the leads was nonexistent.
the drama was so surface-level with no real substance to it - mattie (your generic mean girl) hates mackenzie the minute she steps into the school and the only explanation we get is that apparently mattie and her then-boyfriend chase (who's the love interest, by the way) had seen her before (chase has no memory of it) and chase had been checking her out WHILE WITH HIS GIRLFRIEND, which is wrong on so many levels and really is an honest testament to his character. but anyway, that little fact never comes up at all throughout the book yet acts as (seemingly) the only motivator for mattie's jealousy and hatred of mackenzie. which is ridiculous, honestly. the amount of girl-on-girl hate in this book was sickening and disheartening - mattie hates mackenzie for a reason mackenzie doesn't find out about, and mackenzie's friends all hate mattie instantly, purely because of their animosity towards each other. it's so much hate, and words like "bitch" and "slut" are thrown around constantly as insults, which is demeaning and just straight-up a catty way to extend the surface-level drama.
which leads me to my next point, which is mackenzie's "friends." quotation marks are used, because these are some of the fakest friends i've ever read about. i forgot their names, but they had no opinions of their own and would constantly switch up on people based on a rumour. i wouldn't trust any of these people with my life. they had no actual character developments and were quite literally plot devices, there purely for the need to progress the plot as necessary. i found myself skipping over pages of dialogue because it was filler with mackenzie + friends.
and while the thought is fresh in my mind, no one in this godforsaken book had any opinions of their own. the only exception to this is mattie, and even that one was just deep-seated hatred of mackenzie. but it was so bad - mackenzie hears one bad thing about mattie and immediately thinks she's the worst person ever, chase switches up on mackenzie and mattie so quickly and constantly, it gave me whiplash, and, as i mentioned earlier, all of the front-running character's friends agreed with whatever current piece of gossip was running rampant through the school at a given time. i have never read a book with characters like this and i'm not really predicting that i will again.
i could not bring myself to care about the characters. oh, your parents died in a car crash? oh well. and don't even get me started on chase's home life. it's implied that it sucks and is probably abusive, but we don't really get to see anything, because he just moves out before we're halfway through the book, after one interaction with his father. it just feels like lazy writing and a half-assed attempt to humanize him, gain some sympathy, but it doesn't work because chase has practically no face-to-face interactions with his father in this entire book.
and the romance (if it can even be called that)? chemistry was non-existent. every interaction between mackenzie and chase felt forced, stilted, and heavily uncomfortable. the so-called hate was very one-sided, and it depended solely on chase's mood. he switched up on her so quickly, going from thinking she was hot (i am not joking; this is the alleged romance we're talking about) to hating her (typically influenced by something mattie said, which is very interesting, because he claimed he was done with her but still allows her to interfere with his thoughts and opinions?? make it make sense), to forgiving her because there's just no way she's capable of doing anything she's been accused of because she's so small and kind and sweet and did i mention she's hot? (i'm exaggerating but the point still stands.)
also, the entire prospect of the romance developed from a bet chase made with this guy named gus - which is an interesting premise. i love a good bet in a romance (see Betting on You or how to lose a guy in 10 days), but it has to be done right. a bet made to see who could have sex with mackenzie first was absolutely disgusting to see, and is yet another point against our so-called love interest, chase. it's so unbelievably ridiculous, i can't believe i read this entire book. the only time mackenize acted rationally was when she found out about the bet, told chase to fuck off, and got back at gus (which was actually so funny but it didn't redeem this book).
so, for my final thoughts, i absolutely hated this book. i cannot believe this is a series and there is no way in hell i'm reading the next one. i feel the need to say that i started reading this book for the spice more than for the plot (it just completely slipped my mind that this is still set in a high school), but it didn't deliver on either point. the one scene we got was shit - no build-up, no tension, nothing. everything about this book sucked, actually. the writing, the dialogue, the non-existent chemistry (that somehow was stretched across like 300+ pages??).
0/10 would not recommend. go touch some grass instead.
everything about this book made me want to dnf it, but i pulled through because i love writing scathing reviews.
and when i say everything, i mean everything. the writing was horrid, the dialogue actually made me want to gouge my eyes out (what teenager actually talks like that???), and the "chemistry" between the leads was nonexistent.
the drama was so surface-level with no real substance to it - mattie (your generic mean girl) hates mackenzie the minute she steps into the school and the only explanation we get is that apparently mattie and her then-boyfriend chase (who's the love interest, by the way) had seen her before (chase has no memory of it) and chase had been checking her out WHILE WITH HIS GIRLFRIEND, which is wrong on so many levels and really is an honest testament to his character. but anyway, that little fact never comes up at all throughout the book yet acts as (seemingly) the only motivator for mattie's jealousy and hatred of mackenzie. which is ridiculous, honestly. the amount of girl-on-girl hate in this book was sickening and disheartening - mattie hates mackenzie for a reason mackenzie doesn't find out about, and mackenzie's friends all hate mattie instantly, purely because of their animosity towards each other. it's so much hate, and words like "bitch" and "slut" are thrown around constantly as insults, which is demeaning and just straight-up a catty way to extend the surface-level drama.
which leads me to my next point, which is mackenzie's "friends." quotation marks are used, because these are some of the fakest friends i've ever read about. i forgot their names, but they had no opinions of their own and would constantly switch up on people based on a rumour. i wouldn't trust any of these people with my life. they had no actual character developments and were quite literally plot devices, there purely for the need to progress the plot as necessary. i found myself skipping over pages of dialogue because it was filler with mackenzie + friends.
and while the thought is fresh in my mind, no one in this godforsaken book had any opinions of their own. the only exception to this is mattie, and even that one was just deep-seated hatred of mackenzie. but it was so bad - mackenzie hears one bad thing about mattie and immediately thinks she's the worst person ever, chase switches up on mackenzie and mattie so quickly and constantly, it gave me whiplash, and, as i mentioned earlier, all of the front-running character's friends agreed with whatever current piece of gossip was running rampant through the school at a given time. i have never read a book with characters like this and i'm not really predicting that i will again.
i could not bring myself to care about the characters. oh, your parents died in a car crash? oh well. and don't even get me started on chase's home life. it's implied that it sucks and is probably abusive, but we don't really get to see anything, because he just moves out before we're halfway through the book, after one interaction with his father. it just feels like lazy writing and a half-assed attempt to humanize him, gain some sympathy, but it doesn't work because chase has practically no face-to-face interactions with his father in this entire book.
and the romance (if it can even be called that)? chemistry was non-existent. every interaction between mackenzie and chase felt forced, stilted, and heavily uncomfortable. the so-called hate was very one-sided, and it depended solely on chase's mood. he switched up on her so quickly, going from thinking she was hot (i am not joking; this is the alleged romance we're talking about) to hating her (typically influenced by something mattie said, which is very interesting, because he claimed he was done with her but still allows her to interfere with his thoughts and opinions?? make it make sense), to forgiving her because there's just no way she's capable of doing anything she's been accused of because she's so small and kind and sweet and did i mention she's hot? (i'm exaggerating but the point still stands.)
also, the entire prospect of the romance developed from a bet chase made with this guy named gus - which is an interesting premise. i love a good bet in a romance (see Betting on You or how to lose a guy in 10 days), but it has to be done right. a bet made to see who could have sex with mackenzie first was absolutely disgusting to see, and is yet another point against our so-called love interest, chase. it's so unbelievably ridiculous, i can't believe i read this entire book. the only time mackenize acted rationally was when she found out about the bet, told chase to fuck off, and got back at gus (which was actually so funny but it didn't redeem this book).
so, for my final thoughts, i absolutely hated this book. i cannot believe this is a series and there is no way in hell i'm reading the next one. i feel the need to say that i started reading this book for the spice more than for the plot (it just completely slipped my mind that this is still set in a high school), but it didn't deliver on either point. the one scene we got was shit - no build-up, no tension, nothing. everything about this book sucked, actually. the writing, the dialogue, the non-existent chemistry (that somehow was stretched across like 300+ pages??).
0/10 would not recommend. go touch some grass instead.
March 2, 2024
i dont know if ive grown out of books like this but I really did not like it. i ended up finishing the book because I thought that something was bound to happen but nothing did. the characters all lacked depth and reasoning behind their actions, especially chase who literally was mad one second then happy the next?? would not recommend. if you want something with a similar storyline that has good writing, plot and characters, read After.
September 8, 2019
A little too short
This book was a little too short for my liking. It could have benefited from some length added. The characters could have been fleshed out or more science were the main characters interacted. I would also recommend going back and fixing where the main male character is called by his last name but it’s the wrong name.
This book was a little too short for my liking. It could have benefited from some length added. The characters could have been fleshed out or more science were the main characters interacted. I would also recommend going back and fixing where the main male character is called by his last name but it’s the wrong name.
October 10, 2019
Love it!!
What a good bully romance story. You get so used to reading the ones where the guy is a complete jerk. Not the case here. Yeah there is some billing going on, but the female lead gives as much as she gets. And that ending, was so very nice. Can’t wait to see what book two brings.
What a good bully romance story. You get so used to reading the ones where the guy is a complete jerk. Not the case here. Yeah there is some billing going on, but the female lead gives as much as she gets. And that ending, was so very nice. Can’t wait to see what book two brings.
October 14, 2019
Amazing start to this series!
I NEED more! More Chase, more Mackenzie, and more Revenge! Matti needs to be taken down! Don't want to give anything away so I'm gonna leave you with this...This book is addicting and once you open that cover you won't want to put it down! It truly was a beautiful frustrating work of art! Can't wait for The Chase!
I NEED more! More Chase, more Mackenzie, and more Revenge! Matti needs to be taken down! Don't want to give anything away so I'm gonna leave you with this...This book is addicting and once you open that cover you won't want to put it down! It truly was a beautiful frustrating work of art! Can't wait for The Chase!
September 8, 2020
Oh man! So many plots set against Mack and baby girl held her own. I love this herione. We need more like her. She never backed down from the challenges that were thrown against her. I didnt really get much of a vibe for her and chase but I hope to see more in the sequel. I'm also dying to find out what's mattie issue. Awsome read!!
July 11, 2022
To be honest, from the description I did expect more. I hoped for a whole enemies to lovers, with the guy being a bully and something happens that makes him see her in another light or something like that... But it felt like reading a Wattpad high school romance novel. It was an easy read, but honestly, I wouldn't read it again.
August 29, 2019
Great read
This book was great, the way the mc got back at her bully was brilliant, I don't want to say to much because I will give away to much can't wait until next one is out
This book was great, the way the mc got back at her bully was brilliant, I don't want to say to much because I will give away to much can't wait until next one is out
June 17, 2025
Written by USA Today Bestselling Authors K.L. Middleton and Cassie Alexandra
Mackenzie didn't think that there could be anything worse than losing her parents... until she changed schools and suddenly she's the target of the A-squad – they are the cruel and popular a-hole of Diamond Lake High.
There is one who happens to be the worst of the group. Chase Adams! He's arrogant and a hell-raiser. He gets his kicks by street racing, and partying, and he loves playing games. And this year, he and his crowd have their eyes set on me, they will do what they have to to get their kicks at my expense.
They are the fools who think they are going to be able to shake me, ruin me, even break me.
There are so many things that they don't know about me. They don't know that I have already been to hell and back and if I have to go back to hell, I am not going to go back alone.
This is a new adult bully romance that features snobby, power-hungry, dangerous teens who are going against the girl who refuses to bend.
The Burn by K.L. Middleton and Cassie Alexandra is the first book in their new high school bully romance series Diamond Lake. And if you are a fan of karma then you are going to love this book, just remember, sometimes revenge is a dish served cold, frigid even with a side of wit.
There is one truth when it comes to bullies, truthfully beneath it all, they are all cowards, and it's the reason they are bullies to begin with. And here in this book, we have that cowardice at its peak. And we get to see that the new girl who comes to the school, she's not always the easiest to take down. And she often knows how to give just as well as she takes.
I enjoyed this read. However I did find that there were a few gaps that were left open, which left me with unanswered questions and I was left wondering what was missing.
There's the truth about Chase's car. There needs to be a catalyst for that video to be brought to light, showing Chase's car being keyed and who exactly did it.
And then there's that hooded and masked guy who not only threatened and tased Mackenzie. The questions about him are where are Bruce and Maddie and how are they involved with this guy?
And finally, there's Chase's dad himself. Chase's dad is...a mess. It's a wonder his son is running around like a goon, look at his dad, his dad isn't acting like a dad. So, does his dad turn it around and manage to turn into a real father, the father that Chase deserves?
Maybe all these questions are answered in the 2nd book and the gaps are filled in, I can't wait to jump into the 2nd book and find out and get my answers. I can't wait to read more from these authors, including the rest of this series and I would recommend this series, gaps or not it's still a fun read.
Mackenzie didn't think that there could be anything worse than losing her parents... until she changed schools and suddenly she's the target of the A-squad – they are the cruel and popular a-hole of Diamond Lake High.
There is one who happens to be the worst of the group. Chase Adams! He's arrogant and a hell-raiser. He gets his kicks by street racing, and partying, and he loves playing games. And this year, he and his crowd have their eyes set on me, they will do what they have to to get their kicks at my expense.
They are the fools who think they are going to be able to shake me, ruin me, even break me.
There are so many things that they don't know about me. They don't know that I have already been to hell and back and if I have to go back to hell, I am not going to go back alone.
This is a new adult bully romance that features snobby, power-hungry, dangerous teens who are going against the girl who refuses to bend.
The Burn by K.L. Middleton and Cassie Alexandra is the first book in their new high school bully romance series Diamond Lake. And if you are a fan of karma then you are going to love this book, just remember, sometimes revenge is a dish served cold, frigid even with a side of wit.
There is one truth when it comes to bullies, truthfully beneath it all, they are all cowards, and it's the reason they are bullies to begin with. And here in this book, we have that cowardice at its peak. And we get to see that the new girl who comes to the school, she's not always the easiest to take down. And she often knows how to give just as well as she takes.
I enjoyed this read. However I did find that there were a few gaps that were left open, which left me with unanswered questions and I was left wondering what was missing.
There's the truth about Chase's car. There needs to be a catalyst for that video to be brought to light, showing Chase's car being keyed and who exactly did it.
And then there's that hooded and masked guy who not only threatened and tased Mackenzie. The questions about him are where are Bruce and Maddie and how are they involved with this guy?
And finally, there's Chase's dad himself. Chase's dad is...a mess. It's a wonder his son is running around like a goon, look at his dad, his dad isn't acting like a dad. So, does his dad turn it around and manage to turn into a real father, the father that Chase deserves?
Maybe all these questions are answered in the 2nd book and the gaps are filled in, I can't wait to jump into the 2nd book and find out and get my answers. I can't wait to read more from these authors, including the rest of this series and I would recommend this series, gaps or not it's still a fun read.
April 8, 2023
So this was different from what I expected when I read the blurb. The story kept me interested enough to finish, but there were some issues that made this a bit disappointing. For me there was too much unnecessary filler where nothing happens. The characters act odd in some situations, like when
I just didn't get it.
There were also editing issues, especially with grammar and typos. These don't bother me as much as some people, but I think a good editor and beta reader could've elevated the book and made the writer shine much better. There were simple things that should've been caught by someone proofreading.
Worst of all, it all felt kind of hollow, if that makes sense. Not much substance. Her parents' death seems like an afterthought, and the bullying barely registers with her. She should be an angsty mess, by all rights. Chase is so wishy-washy, not quite what was described in the blurb. I don't feel like I connected with anyone, and I absolutely hated half the characters. To be fair, this is my first high school bully romance, but I honestly don't see how Chase can redeem himself with Mackenzie.
I'm complaining a lot because I can see so much missed potential in this book and it frustrates me. But there are some things I really liked about it! Mackenzie's clapbacks are pretty funny and her grandma is awesome. I'm interested to see what happens next! Hopefully some of the above issues are fixed and Chase gets a clue, because dude is way too easily maneuvered by people he knows are liars and manipulators.
(Free on Amazon Kindle)
I just didn't get it.
There were also editing issues, especially with grammar and typos. These don't bother me as much as some people, but I think a good editor and beta reader could've elevated the book and made the writer shine much better. There were simple things that should've been caught by someone proofreading.
Worst of all, it all felt kind of hollow, if that makes sense. Not much substance. Her parents' death seems like an afterthought, and the bullying barely registers with her. She should be an angsty mess, by all rights. Chase is so wishy-washy, not quite what was described in the blurb. I don't feel like I connected with anyone, and I absolutely hated half the characters. To be fair, this is my first high school bully romance, but I honestly don't see how Chase can redeem himself with Mackenzie.
I'm complaining a lot because I can see so much missed potential in this book and it frustrates me. But there are some things I really liked about it! Mackenzie's clapbacks are pretty funny and her grandma is awesome. I'm interested to see what happens next! Hopefully some of the above issues are fixed and Chase gets a clue, because dude is way too easily maneuvered by people he knows are liars and manipulators.
(Free on Amazon Kindle)
December 20, 2023
Book:The Burn
Read By: Ebook
Author: Cassie Alexander and K.L. Middleton
Genre: Romance, high school
Recommend: Yes
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Upon a recommendation, I picked up this book, drawn in by the intriguing synopsis. The setting of a small town was a refreshing change from the typical high school setting found in many young adult novels. I was immediately drawn to the diverse cast of characters and their interactions with each other. However, as I continued reading, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing. Despite my initial interest, there were points where I felt like putting the book down and moving onto another one. But out of respect for the author's work, I pushed through until the end.
Before I could finish, he leaned forward and kissed me hard on the lips. Not expecting it, I froze for a few seconds and then began kissing him back.
After much reflection, I realized that what lacked in the story was depth and grit. Chase, the protagonist, didn't have enough of an "alpha" presence for my taste. He allowed his manipulative ex-girlfriend to control him, and her actions became increasingly far-fetched and unbelievable. Though a part of me is curious about what happens next in the series, the steep price and mixed reviews make me hesitant to dive into the sequel.
You and your crazy, entitled, holier-than-though, good-for-nothing friends don’t seem to get that.”
I hate giving negative reviews, but I also want to provide honest feedback. Unfortunately, this book just didn't resonate with me as a reader.
Read By: Ebook
Author: Cassie Alexander and K.L. Middleton
Genre: Romance, high school
Recommend: Yes
< b>Age recommendation: 18-30+ Years
My feelings:
Upon a recommendation, I picked up this book, drawn in by the intriguing synopsis. The setting of a small town was a refreshing change from the typical high school setting found in many young adult novels. I was immediately drawn to the diverse cast of characters and their interactions with each other. However, as I continued reading, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was missing. Despite my initial interest, there were points where I felt like putting the book down and moving onto another one. But out of respect for the author's work, I pushed through until the end.
Before I could finish, he leaned forward and kissed me hard on the lips. Not expecting it, I froze for a few seconds and then began kissing him back.
After much reflection, I realized that what lacked in the story was depth and grit. Chase, the protagonist, didn't have enough of an "alpha" presence for my taste. He allowed his manipulative ex-girlfriend to control him, and her actions became increasingly far-fetched and unbelievable. Though a part of me is curious about what happens next in the series, the steep price and mixed reviews make me hesitant to dive into the sequel.
You and your crazy, entitled, holier-than-though, good-for-nothing friends don’t seem to get that.”
I hate giving negative reviews, but I also want to provide honest feedback. Unfortunately, this book just didn't resonate with me as a reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2024
Chase and MacKenzie are totally different from one another but yet the chemistry and sparks really doesn’t get off quick, but a little slower which I like.
I also liked the introduction of characters and how they interacted with each other....this said it just seemed to lack something, like Mattie was doing the chitter chatter and Chase was feeling the heat, he was mistreated and misjudged by many in the novel. I think for me the plot lacked depth and grit, Chase wasn't 'alpha' enough for me the way it is presented in the blurb as he let his psycho ex fool him and manipulate him and she in turn took things way to far, it just seemed unbelievable.
I however do enjoy when you have a girlfriend/ex girlfriend who goes all psycho and then what would a story be if you don’t have a good circle of friends. I do enjoy the point of views banters between Chase, MacKenzie and Mattie. I unfortunately did come across some typing mistakes as editing lacked conviction but I still enjoyed it though. The story has other characters who might found a pair to go by the events and parties of high school and family and friends gathering by the students parents.
I also liked the introduction of characters and how they interacted with each other....this said it just seemed to lack something, like Mattie was doing the chitter chatter and Chase was feeling the heat, he was mistreated and misjudged by many in the novel. I think for me the plot lacked depth and grit, Chase wasn't 'alpha' enough for me the way it is presented in the blurb as he let his psycho ex fool him and manipulate him and she in turn took things way to far, it just seemed unbelievable.
I however do enjoy when you have a girlfriend/ex girlfriend who goes all psycho and then what would a story be if you don’t have a good circle of friends. I do enjoy the point of views banters between Chase, MacKenzie and Mattie. I unfortunately did come across some typing mistakes as editing lacked conviction but I still enjoyed it though. The story has other characters who might found a pair to go by the events and parties of high school and family and friends gathering by the students parents.
September 16, 2020
Witty and Funny …. remember, revenge is a dish that’s best served cold 😱
If you like karma, you certainly will like this book.
Bullies are really cowards, that’s why they are bullies. And here we have cowardice at it best. But the new girl in school isn’t easily taken down. She knows how to give every bit as well as she gets.
👁 OBSERVATIONS:
This is a fun and quick read…. too quick. It really needs better development to fill in the ‘gaps’ that leave you wondering.
What gaps? Well, when is the truth coming out about Chase’s car. Something has to happen for that video to be brought to light showing exactly who keyed the car.
And how about the hooded, masked guy who threatened and tased Mackenzie? Just where and how are Bruce and Maddie involved?
Then, there is Chase’s dad….he’s a royal mess. Does he turn his life around and become a real father?
March 7, 2026
Book 1 of Mackenzie and Chase!!!!
This book was good.... Mackenzie parents died in a car accident so she went and lived with her grandmother.... She was the new girl at the school so people took notice.... I guess Chase notice her before she started school there but forgot, the person that didn't forget is his girlfriend Mattie.... Chase like to race, and he was racing Gus, but they got cought so they mad another bet on Mackenzie.... I really liked how Mackenzie can handle her self.... She really puts people in their place.... If your looking for a spicy book, this is not it, the most your get is a make on session or them talking about someone doing it, but that is about it....
This book was good.... Mackenzie parents died in a car accident so she went and lived with her grandmother.... She was the new girl at the school so people took notice.... I guess Chase notice her before she started school there but forgot, the person that didn't forget is his girlfriend Mattie.... Chase like to race, and he was racing Gus, but they got cought so they mad another bet on Mackenzie.... I really liked how Mackenzie can handle her self.... She really puts people in their place.... If your looking for a spicy book, this is not it, the most your get is a make on session or them talking about someone doing it, but that is about it....
August 4, 2021
This was my first "bullies to lovers" romance, and I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about this trope. Turns out, I love it! At least in this particular instance. I love Chase and Mackenzie's characters. She's not afraid to stand up for himself, and he doesn't just fall in line with his troublesome friends every time they want to do something stupid or cruel. While he makes some bad decisions on his own, he at least feels they are justified and he has a reason behind it. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
August 11, 2024
This was an enjoyable read considering the mains are younger than they are in my usual reads. The characters were in high school (17/18yrs old) Mackenzie is the newbie at School after moving in with her eccentric but loveable grandma after her parents die in a car accident. She becomes the wrath of Mattie and her other popular friends at school, when Mattie’s ex, Chase takes a passing liking for Mackenzie. There are quite a few twists and turns in this story, that were great, and I particularly like Mackenzie’s personality that won’t take shit from anyone ( much like her grandma) this book had an awesome final chapter which had me chuckling, and although it’s not a HEA, I enjoy how this first book of the series wants me to follow on to see what happens next.
May 8, 2025
BE WARNED: this is not the full book!! It stops half way through the book and you have to pay for the other half!!
It’s only getting 2 stars because of the fact that the book just stops in the middle and you have to pay for the rest. Other than that the plot was ok. Lots of teenage drama, no spice at all. Also why can’t people just use sexual words while writing spicy scenes? Why do we as adults use the words “my sex”. Grow up. If you’re going to write sex scenes write sex scenes. The plot is really good I just wish it was more of an adult book.
It’s only getting 2 stars because of the fact that the book just stops in the middle and you have to pay for the rest. Other than that the plot was ok. Lots of teenage drama, no spice at all. Also why can’t people just use sexual words while writing spicy scenes? Why do we as adults use the words “my sex”. Grow up. If you’re going to write sex scenes write sex scenes. The plot is really good I just wish it was more of an adult book.
October 27, 2020
Muchas veces pasa que en lo libros los personajes son chicos de secundaria de 15 años que actúan como adultos gangster o algo así. En este libro, los personajes ya tienen 18 y se comportan como niños de 15, muy inmaduros, es un libro totalmente inocente y poco aburrido.
La amiga de el personaje principal femenino se llama Kara pero a lo largo del libro le cambian el nombre a Tara y Kala, estos errores son molestos y difíciles de perdonar en un libro que supuestamente fue revisado y editado.
La amiga de el personaje principal femenino se llama Kara pero a lo largo del libro le cambian el nombre a Tara y Kala, estos errores son molestos y difíciles de perdonar en un libro que supuestamente fue revisado y editado.
April 28, 2021
I downloaded The Burn, a high school bully romance, which is part of the Diamond Lake series, as a free ebook from Amazon. While I found the high school mean girls a bit over-the-top, I loved Mackenzie and her common sense contempt for the machinations of her peers. I loved the ending where we are treated to a revenge scenario that still has me evil-smiling. Perfect.
July 12, 2021
3.5 stars
So as far as HSBR go, this was average. I mean, I liked it and would like to know what happens in the next book but at the same time, I'm not sure I want to pay for it as I wasn't totally hooked.
An enjoyable read but would've liked a little more romance or smut in there.
So as far as HSBR go, this was average. I mean, I liked it and would like to know what happens in the next book but at the same time, I'm not sure I want to pay for it as I wasn't totally hooked.
An enjoyable read but would've liked a little more romance or smut in there.
June 21, 2022
Great read
I really enjoyed this one. I laughed and was pissed a lot but the ending was EPIC.
Mackenzie is a courageous young lady who's literally gone through hell and back. I absolutely loved grandma Rae shit is a spit fire. Kara is hilarious and such a great friend.
I highly recommend this book.
I really enjoyed this one. I laughed and was pissed a lot but the ending was EPIC.
Mackenzie is a courageous young lady who's literally gone through hell and back. I absolutely loved grandma Rae shit is a spit fire. Kara is hilarious and such a great friend.
I highly recommend this book.
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