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Hawthorne Prep #1
King of Hawthorne Prep
From USA Today Bestselling author Jennifer Sucevic comes a sexy, new bully romance.
Welcome to the world of Hawthorne Prep. A seemingly idyllic school where ivy clings to the thick stone walls and a wrought iron gate keeps out the townies who can’t afford to foot the hefty price tag.
A couple of months ago, the idea of being ripped away from my life in Chicago and plunked down in the middle of nowheresville, Wisconsin was unimaginable. Laughable, even. And yet, here I am, forced to wear a short plaid skirt and navy blazer to school every day. The only silver lining is the brand spanking new G-wagon parked in the weathered brick drive. All I have to do is make it through senior year and then I’m off to college.
Shouldn’t be a problem, right?
Wrong.
In a school like this, flying under the radar is impossible.
There’s a king who presides over the kingdom and he’s set on forcing me to my knees so I can kiss the crown. Unbeknownst to me, being a Hawthorne in this town comes with a price and he’s going to make damn sure I pay what’s owed.
*King of Hawthorne Prep is a mature bully romance intended for audiences over the age of 18*
Welcome to the world of Hawthorne Prep. A seemingly idyllic school where ivy clings to the thick stone walls and a wrought iron gate keeps out the townies who can’t afford to foot the hefty price tag.
A couple of months ago, the idea of being ripped away from my life in Chicago and plunked down in the middle of nowheresville, Wisconsin was unimaginable. Laughable, even. And yet, here I am, forced to wear a short plaid skirt and navy blazer to school every day. The only silver lining is the brand spanking new G-wagon parked in the weathered brick drive. All I have to do is make it through senior year and then I’m off to college.
Shouldn’t be a problem, right?
Wrong.
In a school like this, flying under the radar is impossible.
There’s a king who presides over the kingdom and he’s set on forcing me to my knees so I can kiss the crown. Unbeknownst to me, being a Hawthorne in this town comes with a price and he’s going to make damn sure I pay what’s owed.
*King of Hawthorne Prep is a mature bully romance intended for audiences over the age of 18*
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2020
898 people are currently reading
1586 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Sucevic
77 books2,267 followersJennifer is the USA Today Bestselling Author of King of Campus. She currently resides in Michigan with her husband, kids, a dog named Rocky, and a kitten named Lily. After pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology also from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee, she spent five years working as a high school counselor before moving out of state with her family. She enjoys reading, writing, and traveling. Please contact Jennifer at jmolitor6@hotmail.com. Connect with Jennifer on facebook- https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.suc... or check her out on Wattpad- https://www.wattpad.com/user/jsucevic. Jennifer can also be found on Tumblr at jsucevic (inspiration board).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
June 8, 2020
Horrible, horrible!
This book was just an awful book how any person could allow themselves to be subjected to such nasty treatment is beyond my comprehension. Don’t read this book nothing admirable about the book!
This book was just an awful book how any person could allow themselves to be subjected to such nasty treatment is beyond my comprehension. Don’t read this book nothing admirable about the book!
January 13, 2023
This book.
Ugh! Summer, Summer, Summer.
RUN girl run as fast as you can from Kingsley and his f’d up family.
This poor girl has lost her damn mind!
She has allowed herself to be manipulated by everyone around her.
And Kingsley. What apiece of work he is.
If Summer does ends up marrying him, $20 says he turns into an abusive, controlling husband.
This book started off kinda sweet with the slightly naive Summer’s chance meeting with the boy of her dreams (Kingsley) on the beach, while on summer holidays with her parents.
Unfortunately, her fathers aunt rose die’s leaving a will that starts up a family feud in the town Summers family are forced to live in. The town of Hawthorne (a town that Summers family built)
Yes, just like all the good family feuds, (be it Capulate v Montague or a Hatfield v McCoy) there are devious plans afoot.
Those plans involve Summer and Kingsley’s families
The Hawthorne’s and THE Rothchilds
This is where the story lost me. Summer allowed herself to be screwed over by her parents and seduced by Kingsley way too many times.
And while she patted herself on the back for standing up to the majority of school bullies (telling herself she was strong) she couldn’t stay the F away from the biggest bully of all....Kingsley.
She felt pulled towards him. She felt they were meant to be together...Oh come on!!! Get a grip girl..Ya know, for a smart girl she needed to stop think with her body and start using her brain!
What kind of message it this sending out to young girls?
Yeah, give up your dreams of college that you’ve held onto for years and go off with the first good looking boy that crosses your path.
Yep. When all your brain can think about is sex, it doesn’t matter how much of a possessive, self serving a@#hole the guy is, it doesn’t matter because he’s got killer cheekbones, great lips and a big D.
Also the storyline towards the end...If Summer was already falling in Love with Kingsley, why was it such a big twist when she found out what her parents had negotiated with The Rothschild family?
The last couple of chapters seemed like, unnecessary drama when she was always going to go along with the path everyone had planned out for her anyway and choose Kingsley. (This part annoyed me the most. Her compliance)
Please, Please give Summer some backbone and have her be more evolved in the sequel to this book.
If she hasn’t become more independent and moved away from Kingsley’s (and the Rothschild’s) influence I will be extremely disappointed.
Ugh! Summer, Summer, Summer.
RUN girl run as fast as you can from Kingsley and his f’d up family.
This poor girl has lost her damn mind!
She has allowed herself to be manipulated by everyone around her.
And Kingsley. What apiece of work he is.
If Summer does ends up marrying him, $20 says he turns into an abusive, controlling husband.
This book started off kinda sweet with the slightly naive Summer’s chance meeting with the boy of her dreams (Kingsley) on the beach, while on summer holidays with her parents.
Unfortunately, her fathers aunt rose die’s leaving a will that starts up a family feud in the town Summers family are forced to live in. The town of Hawthorne (a town that Summers family built)
Yes, just like all the good family feuds, (be it Capulate v Montague or a Hatfield v McCoy) there are devious plans afoot.
Those plans involve Summer and Kingsley’s families
The Hawthorne’s and THE Rothchilds
This is where the story lost me. Summer allowed herself to be screwed over by her parents and seduced by Kingsley way too many times.
And while she patted herself on the back for standing up to the majority of school bullies (telling herself she was strong) she couldn’t stay the F away from the biggest bully of all....Kingsley.
She felt pulled towards him. She felt they were meant to be together...Oh come on!!! Get a grip girl..Ya know, for a smart girl she needed to stop think with her body and start using her brain!
What kind of message it this sending out to young girls?
Yeah, give up your dreams of college that you’ve held onto for years and go off with the first good looking boy that crosses your path.
Yep. When all your brain can think about is sex, it doesn’t matter how much of a possessive, self serving a@#hole the guy is, it doesn’t matter because he’s got killer cheekbones, great lips and a big D.
Also the storyline towards the end...If Summer was already falling in Love with Kingsley, why was it such a big twist when she found out what her parents had negotiated with The Rothschild family?
The last couple of chapters seemed like, unnecessary drama when she was always going to go along with the path everyone had planned out for her anyway and choose Kingsley. (This part annoyed me the most. Her compliance)
Please, Please give Summer some backbone and have her be more evolved in the sequel to this book.
If she hasn’t become more independent and moved away from Kingsley’s (and the Rothschild’s) influence I will be extremely disappointed.
August 9, 2021
It was embarassing to read how little respect the h had for herself. I love bully romances where h is strong and faisty. And even when H is stronger and holds more power in school she still have dignity and is fighting the best she can. This one was only thinking with her hormones.
*SPOILER*
H was cruel and embarrasing her every time he was in her vicinity and she still never pushed him away or told him to not touch her. WORST! She was eager for it.
I don't know why authors are writing such weak heroines now. It's really rare to read about heroine who holds her own and it's really a shame. Especially now when women fights more and more for their rights and to be treated more equally as men does.
*SPOILER*
H was cruel and embarrasing her every time he was in her vicinity and she still never pushed him away or told him to not touch her. WORST! She was eager for it.
I don't know why authors are writing such weak heroines now. It's really rare to read about heroine who holds her own and it's really a shame. Especially now when women fights more and more for their rights and to be treated more equally as men does.
June 9, 2020
2.5 really
The bully is really hard to like in this story guys brace yourself. Like I don’t even know if I like them together. At the beginning it was sweet and then is just got so twisted that I don’t understand why she would continue to stay with him. Read at your own risk.
The bully is really hard to like in this story guys brace yourself. Like I don’t even know if I like them together. At the beginning it was sweet and then is just got so twisted that I don’t understand why she would continue to stay with him. Read at your own risk.
October 23, 2023
This is one of those books where it’s not so much dark romance as it is a toxic and arguably abusive relationship. But I did read the whole thing and there were times I thought I saw the vision, thus the 2 stars.
January 19, 2021
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Stars! Bully, Friends to Enemies to lover/ YA romance. It’s like I can’t get enough of these bully romance. This one was good. I love the way they met and then things fall apart at school, typical. Their chemistry was on point.
July 31, 2020
I need more right now!
King of Hawthorne Prep is exactly what you want in a bully romance. Kingsley and Summer have steaming hot chemistry from the first time they meet. They spend one glorious day together out on the lake before Summer is forced to leave. Summer's life is uprooted and her family moves to a new town. New school, new people. Summer never expected to see her lost summer fling on her first day of Hawthrone Prep. Relieved to know one person at school Summer tries to talk to Kingsley only to realize the boy she spent the day on the boat with is not the same one she sees now. Kingsley and the entire school make Summer and her twin brother Austin's life a living hell. Summer and Austin have no idea why the students of Hawthrone Prep hate them. The town, the school, the buildings all say their last name but in this town it is definitely not a good thing. The problem with avoiding Kingsley? He has made it clear he hates her but then why does his touch cause sparks? Why does his kiss leave her breathless?
I loved little things that set this book apart from others. First of all Austin. I like that Summer isn't the new girl who is completely alone. Second, Summer and Kingsley meet and no nothing of one another. She gets to see a side I don't think even Kingsley knew he had. So when they meet again it throws you when he is a complete and total jerk.
I hope that Austin gets a book of his own. He is broody and seems a little broken on his own. Austin and Kingsley seem to be a lot more alike than either of them would like to admit. Honestly the fighting between them is kind of hot. Hopefully we get more of them throwing down in the next book and then maybe a friendship. I would feel bad for anyone who would go up against the two of them but it would make for one hell of a story!
I loved this story. It took me only hours to read the entire book because I was sucked in from chapter one. I am so glad the next book is coming out in few days. I'm curious to see where this goes. Also you can just read this as a standalone. There is no big cliff hanger that will leave you wanting to scream. It has a happy for now. I'm definitely going to check out other books by Jennifer Sucevic.
King of Hawthorne Prep is exactly what you want in a bully romance. Kingsley and Summer have steaming hot chemistry from the first time they meet. They spend one glorious day together out on the lake before Summer is forced to leave. Summer's life is uprooted and her family moves to a new town. New school, new people. Summer never expected to see her lost summer fling on her first day of Hawthrone Prep. Relieved to know one person at school Summer tries to talk to Kingsley only to realize the boy she spent the day on the boat with is not the same one she sees now. Kingsley and the entire school make Summer and her twin brother Austin's life a living hell. Summer and Austin have no idea why the students of Hawthrone Prep hate them. The town, the school, the buildings all say their last name but in this town it is definitely not a good thing. The problem with avoiding Kingsley? He has made it clear he hates her but then why does his touch cause sparks? Why does his kiss leave her breathless?
I loved little things that set this book apart from others. First of all Austin. I like that Summer isn't the new girl who is completely alone. Second, Summer and Kingsley meet and no nothing of one another. She gets to see a side I don't think even Kingsley knew he had. So when they meet again it throws you when he is a complete and total jerk.
I hope that Austin gets a book of his own. He is broody and seems a little broken on his own. Austin and Kingsley seem to be a lot more alike than either of them would like to admit. Honestly the fighting between them is kind of hot. Hopefully we get more of them throwing down in the next book and then maybe a friendship. I would feel bad for anyone who would go up against the two of them but it would make for one hell of a story!
I loved this story. It took me only hours to read the entire book because I was sucked in from chapter one. I am so glad the next book is coming out in few days. I'm curious to see where this goes. Also you can just read this as a standalone. There is no big cliff hanger that will leave you wanting to scream. It has a happy for now. I'm definitely going to check out other books by Jennifer Sucevic.
February 11, 2022
This book is trying to give what it needs to give, it really is, but it simply isn’t working. I thought I could stick it out til the end but I DNFed it at 30%. I literally couldn’t read another page of over exaggerated detail that was completely pointless. Sorry not sorry 😭
January 26, 2023
So I'm not sure that sexual chemistry works the way this book has it going, but I guess to each his own. I think the fact that kids get to behave so over the top in these books are quite disturbing, however it's that factor that made the books so good.
I'm still reeling from this right now.
This was really a good read.
I'm still reeling from this right now.
This was really a good read.
September 2, 2024
I respect Jennifer's writing, especially her college romances but this story is not a good attempt.
High school drama, and bully romance in particular has its own rules and needs to be in line with the psychological aspects of teenage people otherwise it's a failure.
It could be classified as Grease meets Romeo & Juliet in a new but not exactly better form.
This story is wrong on many levels:
1. the main heroine is an annoying crybaby and pushover,
2. A supposedly happy family is based on a complete lack of honest verbal communication,
3. twins maintain verbal miscommunication despite their "special" bond,
4. the main heroine is lusting after a complete asshole - a glorification of abusive relationships,
5. far-fetched basic motive for common hatred manifested toward main characters by the community (or is it the American way of behaving?),
6. help is offered in exchange for sexual favours - promotion of prostitution and a very backward view of women's position in social areas.
Basically the most annoying is the lack of consistency in our heroine's behaviour. She vows to hate her tormentor and tries to avoid him by every chance and in the same sentence admits to being helplessly weak with lust toward him and submitting to all his desires.
It's painful to read about the main character who is stupid, weak and inconsistent.
Even the author herself puts this confession in her character's inner monologue:
..."If I were smart, I would fortify and protect myself against his onslaught. It’s only been a few days and look at me..."
Overall, the high schoolers are some misplaced adults with their problems straight from the gentlemen's club, not the school environment.
The action is nonexistent, the school creates some phoney background, and the bullying has no rational explanation and looks like pure abuse which doesn't endear Kingsley in readers' eyes.
This book is a waste of time.
High school drama, and bully romance in particular has its own rules and needs to be in line with the psychological aspects of teenage people otherwise it's a failure.
It could be classified as Grease meets Romeo & Juliet in a new but not exactly better form.
This story is wrong on many levels:
1. the main heroine is an annoying crybaby and pushover,
2. A supposedly happy family is based on a complete lack of honest verbal communication,
3. twins maintain verbal miscommunication despite their "special" bond,
4. the main heroine is lusting after a complete asshole - a glorification of abusive relationships,
5. far-fetched basic motive for common hatred manifested toward main characters by the community (or is it the American way of behaving?),
6. help is offered in exchange for sexual favours - promotion of prostitution and a very backward view of women's position in social areas.
Basically the most annoying is the lack of consistency in our heroine's behaviour. She vows to hate her tormentor and tries to avoid him by every chance and in the same sentence admits to being helplessly weak with lust toward him and submitting to all his desires.
It's painful to read about the main character who is stupid, weak and inconsistent.
Even the author herself puts this confession in her character's inner monologue:
..."If I were smart, I would fortify and protect myself against his onslaught. It’s only been a few days and look at me..."
Overall, the high schoolers are some misplaced adults with their problems straight from the gentlemen's club, not the school environment.
The action is nonexistent, the school creates some phoney background, and the bullying has no rational explanation and looks like pure abuse which doesn't endear Kingsley in readers' eyes.
This book is a waste of time.
August 10, 2020
They met for a sweet brief moment before the school started. Once Summer and her twin enter the new school...bullying become relentless. And it's all because the boy she met happened to be the son of a man who got a vendetta against her family. I can never accept a boy again if I receive the same humiliation (coz dude... it's over the top) Summer has endured from him especially if that treatment is extended to my brother, my twin even more. At least I would have him work for my forgiveness, trust and love back. Let him sweat a bit coz I'm worth it. I would ask him to work it with my brother too coz he hurt him, directly and indirectly. Summer forgave him quick and instant, for this reason I am giving this a lower rate even if there's a HEA.
July 22, 2020
My favorite
King of Hawthrone Prep has got to be hands down my favorite story of Jennifer's! I loved everything about this one and couldn't put it down. Summer and Kingsley are the perfect pair. This was one that I wanted to jump through the book and punch several people. Its truly a bully romance but instead of bullying between our two main stars the whole school participants. My heart broke for how Summer and her twin Austin were treated and they didn't have a clue as to why. Kings man you want to hate him but you can't! There is good in him somewhere. I'm counting down the days until the next book in this new amazing series!
King of Hawthrone Prep has got to be hands down my favorite story of Jennifer's! I loved everything about this one and couldn't put it down. Summer and Kingsley are the perfect pair. This was one that I wanted to jump through the book and punch several people. Its truly a bully romance but instead of bullying between our two main stars the whole school participants. My heart broke for how Summer and her twin Austin were treated and they didn't have a clue as to why. Kings man you want to hate him but you can't! There is good in him somewhere. I'm counting down the days until the next book in this new amazing series!
December 28, 2024
This has to be the worst book I have read so far from this author. An entire town hating a family for something that happened 3/4 generations ago? A high school senior year commanding an entire school, including teachers and staff? Teachers and parents acting oblivious to two kids being bullied and harassed and not doing a thing about it?And the worst part? Summer can’t help falling for Kingsley. Nevermind the fact that he assaulted, her, sexually assaulted, her, humiliated her, snuck into her bedroom while she was sleeping, forcing her to do things like not wear a bra and exposing herself, tracked her phone. And then her parents arrange her marriage to Kingsley?!?!?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2022
Fell short
I've read several enemy to lover books. The females were strong willed and gave just as hard. This story is simply a teenage female that is assaulted and mentally abused, but justifies the actions because she is sexually attracted to the male lead. Then, to further show how unimportant she is, her parents arrange marriage between the two just to protect their interests. Disappointed in the character set up.
I've read several enemy to lover books. The females were strong willed and gave just as hard. This story is simply a teenage female that is assaulted and mentally abused, but justifies the actions because she is sexually attracted to the male lead. Then, to further show how unimportant she is, her parents arrange marriage between the two just to protect their interests. Disappointed in the character set up.
June 18, 2023
Just Terrible… this is a terrible book for YA because it teaches them the lack of self worth, and degrades them. Bully romances have limitations, but forced conduct is disgusting and awful
September 14, 2025
DNF.. Can't stand books with weak, pathetic FMC.
September 15, 2022
Soooo Jennifer Sucevic has hit us with a different type of book from her usual genre and style - and I was kind of unprepared for this departure. Normally her MO are these amazing college-based sports stories / series - which I so love. Like literally, ever single one of them. They are addictive and that's why I have literally gobbled up every single one of her books. But here she has dove head first into a high school bully-type ... romance? Can we call it romance? There's so much bullying happening and mixed in is this amazing attraction that's undeniable and incredibly addictive. And what makes it worse is that it really leaves a reader like me torn - the straight-up male possessiveness and degradation that I feel at times have me loving to hate Kingsley - meanwhile we can't but just love Summer... however her giving into Kingsley has us torn yet again. The strong woman at the beginning of the book seems to cower to him - and that was hard for me because I so feel for Summer's character in the beginning. But I get the precarious position she's been thrust into, so you forgive her... basically.
The initial meet cute is really cute and sweet - which then becomes a major departure from the attraction that ensues. And I got to say that the sizzle in this book and then the following book ("Queen of Hawthorne Prep") may be Sucevic's hottest and sexiest sizzle to date... and she's written A LOT of incredible attractions and romance and sexy scenes. No joke. And here we thought she couldn't top some of her previous romantic relationships and sex scenes... but she may have just surpassed all of her other books with this two-part series in that department. Hands down.
This two part series is one-million-percent something that you cannot and will not want to put down. Of course (duh!) her writing is on point, the character development and setting couldn't be any more perfect. But this story is dominated by anxiety for me... you're waiting for the next hit, for the next shoe to drop - because you know something big is coming and it almost physically hurts. I was super anxious reading this. And Sucevic never disappoints because when she hits you with it, oh boy does it shock and surprise and at times enrage you. But she softens the blow with the relationship that you can't but want to happen between Summer and Kingsley. Despite the inner turmoil that one feels and the degradation that Kingsley throws Summer's way - you still want a HEA for them, and even when you find yourself hating yourself a little for wanting it... you can't but root for them. It's such a conflicting feeling. But isn't that just the mark of an amazing writer - one who gets you so involved in the plot, storyline and characters that you find yourself laughing, crying, yelling at how the story unfolds? Well, if that's the case, count Jennifer Sucevic in that category. I highly-highly recommend any of her books - but will say that this one is (again) just a bit of a departure from her usual MO and if one is used to reading (and loving) her other books - just mentally and emotionally prepare yourself that this one is not like all the others! ... not to say that that's necessarily a bad thing. Sucevic of course crushed this high school bully romance thing. And I for one cannot wait for book #3!!! Give me Austin's story NOW!
The initial meet cute is really cute and sweet - which then becomes a major departure from the attraction that ensues. And I got to say that the sizzle in this book and then the following book ("Queen of Hawthorne Prep") may be Sucevic's hottest and sexiest sizzle to date... and she's written A LOT of incredible attractions and romance and sexy scenes. No joke. And here we thought she couldn't top some of her previous romantic relationships and sex scenes... but she may have just surpassed all of her other books with this two-part series in that department. Hands down.
This two part series is one-million-percent something that you cannot and will not want to put down. Of course (duh!) her writing is on point, the character development and setting couldn't be any more perfect. But this story is dominated by anxiety for me... you're waiting for the next hit, for the next shoe to drop - because you know something big is coming and it almost physically hurts. I was super anxious reading this. And Sucevic never disappoints because when she hits you with it, oh boy does it shock and surprise and at times enrage you. But she softens the blow with the relationship that you can't but want to happen between Summer and Kingsley. Despite the inner turmoil that one feels and the degradation that Kingsley throws Summer's way - you still want a HEA for them, and even when you find yourself hating yourself a little for wanting it... you can't but root for them. It's such a conflicting feeling. But isn't that just the mark of an amazing writer - one who gets you so involved in the plot, storyline and characters that you find yourself laughing, crying, yelling at how the story unfolds? Well, if that's the case, count Jennifer Sucevic in that category. I highly-highly recommend any of her books - but will say that this one is (again) just a bit of a departure from her usual MO and if one is used to reading (and loving) her other books - just mentally and emotionally prepare yourself that this one is not like all the others! ... not to say that that's necessarily a bad thing. Sucevic of course crushed this high school bully romance thing. And I for one cannot wait for book #3!!! Give me Austin's story NOW!
September 21, 2020
Romeo and Juliet (sorta), but no suicides
I read both Books 1 and 2 twice - back to back they were so good. I even read Book 2 first. Great duo and can’t wait to read Austin’s story. I hope Everly and Duke have a story as well. Their chemistry was off the charts.
**spoilers of Kingsley and Summer’s story that spans Books 1 and 2**
Romeo and Juliet without the suicides. Yeah, Everly did a good job summing up their story in one sentence.
Book 1:
Kingsley and Summer meet by accident while on a beach and fall into instant attraction. A cute boy and a pretty girl. They hit it off immediately. She’s a virgin and he’s a gentleman.
They go out on the lake and have a day filled with the start of a hot, budding romance. They are both so intrigued with one another and we see a side of Kingsley that we only glimpse in a few different parts of both books, but it’s this memory of the dark haired boy who stole her heart that Summer keeps searching for throughout the story because he’s the one she really falls in love with.
Fast forward, Summer’s Grandma Hawthorne dies and leaves a fortune to Summer’s father but with many stipulations - including he must live in small town Hawthorne for ten years or they lose it all. Of course Kingsley lives in Hawthorne and he now hates her because of her family name - everyone does. Once he realizes Summer is a Hawthorne, the bottom drops out because their family has been feuding for 80 years. Summer is unaware until then.
This is where the Romeo and Juliet part begins and it’s handled superbly without being mushy or too much like the Shakespearean novel.
There is some bullying. The whole town actually hates the Hawthornes and Kingsley allows them to be bullies. He stops anyone from actually hurting Summer though.
The book does end on a HFN - no cliffhanger. The story just continues into a HEA by the end of book 2.
Book 2:
I actually like that the teenaged pregnancy was thrown in because this isn’t something seen a lot in these types of books nowadays. I do wish Summer had a little more backbone when standing up for them to her mom and dad, but I guess that shows her age and vulnerability. Summer was a teenage girl who had lived in a protected bubble all of her life.
Books 1 and 2 are very well-written, professionally edited, intriguing, very steamy, and with tons of teenaged angst and vulnerability thrown in. These are 18 year olds with some very adult problems and actions.
Highly recommend this author!
I read both Books 1 and 2 twice - back to back they were so good. I even read Book 2 first. Great duo and can’t wait to read Austin’s story. I hope Everly and Duke have a story as well. Their chemistry was off the charts.
**spoilers of Kingsley and Summer’s story that spans Books 1 and 2**
Romeo and Juliet without the suicides. Yeah, Everly did a good job summing up their story in one sentence.
Book 1:
Kingsley and Summer meet by accident while on a beach and fall into instant attraction. A cute boy and a pretty girl. They hit it off immediately. She’s a virgin and he’s a gentleman.
They go out on the lake and have a day filled with the start of a hot, budding romance. They are both so intrigued with one another and we see a side of Kingsley that we only glimpse in a few different parts of both books, but it’s this memory of the dark haired boy who stole her heart that Summer keeps searching for throughout the story because he’s the one she really falls in love with.
Fast forward, Summer’s Grandma Hawthorne dies and leaves a fortune to Summer’s father but with many stipulations - including he must live in small town Hawthorne for ten years or they lose it all. Of course Kingsley lives in Hawthorne and he now hates her because of her family name - everyone does. Once he realizes Summer is a Hawthorne, the bottom drops out because their family has been feuding for 80 years. Summer is unaware until then.
This is where the Romeo and Juliet part begins and it’s handled superbly without being mushy or too much like the Shakespearean novel.
There is some bullying. The whole town actually hates the Hawthornes and Kingsley allows them to be bullies. He stops anyone from actually hurting Summer though.
The book does end on a HFN - no cliffhanger. The story just continues into a HEA by the end of book 2.
Book 2:
I actually like that the teenaged pregnancy was thrown in because this isn’t something seen a lot in these types of books nowadays. I do wish Summer had a little more backbone when standing up for them to her mom and dad, but I guess that shows her age and vulnerability. Summer was a teenage girl who had lived in a protected bubble all of her life.
Books 1 and 2 are very well-written, professionally edited, intriguing, very steamy, and with tons of teenaged angst and vulnerability thrown in. These are 18 year olds with some very adult problems and actions.
Highly recommend this author!
June 27, 2025
It's no secret that I love a Jennifer Sucevic book. I'm also a fan of academia based books, so finding out she'd written a series based on that, I knew I had to dive in.
Summer and Kingsley have a meet cute at a lake in Michigan during the summer break, but when Summer's grandma dies unexpectedly, she has to leave, without the time for them to exchange numbers. The terms of Grandma's will means that her family have to up sticks and move to Hawthorne, a town named after her family, and her and her twin, Austin, have to start at Hawthorne Prep. Within minutes of arrival, Summer and Kingsley meet again... and it becomes clear that not only is he not the nice guy she met at the lake, but her and Austin are persona non grata for being Hawthornes. How is Summer going to get through her final year at school, with Kingsley on her mind for all the wrong reasons? Right when she thinks she might have it worked out, her parents hit her with a twist that totally changes her life...
This is a thrilling story that has you rooting for Summer, but also dreaming of Kingsley, despite his awful attitude to start with. It is spicy - more spicy than her hockey romances - and I love it. If anything, I feel like the school based scenes could have been developed further, to make Summer's dilemma that bit more pronounced - it feels like she capitulates a little easily. I'm super excited for book two though - it looks like there is going to be even more trouble for poor Summer! Another excellent read by Jennifer Sucevic.
Summer and Kingsley have a meet cute at a lake in Michigan during the summer break, but when Summer's grandma dies unexpectedly, she has to leave, without the time for them to exchange numbers. The terms of Grandma's will means that her family have to up sticks and move to Hawthorne, a town named after her family, and her and her twin, Austin, have to start at Hawthorne Prep. Within minutes of arrival, Summer and Kingsley meet again... and it becomes clear that not only is he not the nice guy she met at the lake, but her and Austin are persona non grata for being Hawthornes. How is Summer going to get through her final year at school, with Kingsley on her mind for all the wrong reasons? Right when she thinks she might have it worked out, her parents hit her with a twist that totally changes her life...
This is a thrilling story that has you rooting for Summer, but also dreaming of Kingsley, despite his awful attitude to start with. It is spicy - more spicy than her hockey romances - and I love it. If anything, I feel like the school based scenes could have been developed further, to make Summer's dilemma that bit more pronounced - it feels like she capitulates a little easily. I'm super excited for book two though - it looks like there is going to be even more trouble for poor Summer! Another excellent read by Jennifer Sucevic.
July 4, 2022
3.5 stars!
About 2 teens Kingsley Rothchild and Summer Hawthorne who form a connection during a seaside vacation...
Summer's family moves to Hawthorne following the death of her Grandma Rose. (the relocation was a stipulation in Grandma Rose's Will)
Summer changes schools....and surprise surprise...its Kingsley's school.
(Why am I picturing Sandy and Danny of Grease, right now!!! 😁)
Problems ensue for Summer and her twin Austin at the new school, when the students learn they're the hated Hawthornes.
More details are revealed about why the town hates the Hawthornes, the conditions of the Grandmother Rose's Will and, the Rothchild family connection.
Things definitely heat up between our hero and heroine towards the 2nd half of the book.
Our hero is an a$$, he's manipulative, dominant, possessive and determined to get his girl. He can be a harda$$ but he does have his soft moments for his 'baby girl'.
Our heroine forgives way too easily, but she's very protective of her twin and there are moments she does try to stand her ground.
Steam Lvl: 3
Heroine: Virgin prior to hero
Hero: isn't a virgin but not a manwhore either./there is a wanna be girlfriend but no real ow drama. Once he's with the heroine he's focused on her.
Both are 18yrs old.
I liked it and will read book 2.
About 2 teens Kingsley Rothchild and Summer Hawthorne who form a connection during a seaside vacation...
Summer's family moves to Hawthorne following the death of her Grandma Rose. (the relocation was a stipulation in Grandma Rose's Will)
Summer changes schools....and surprise surprise...its Kingsley's school.
(Why am I picturing Sandy and Danny of Grease, right now!!! 😁)
Problems ensue for Summer and her twin Austin at the new school, when the students learn they're the hated Hawthornes.
More details are revealed about why the town hates the Hawthornes, the conditions of the Grandmother Rose's Will and, the Rothchild family connection.
Things definitely heat up between our hero and heroine towards the 2nd half of the book.
Our hero is an a$$, he's manipulative, dominant, possessive and determined to get his girl. He can be a harda$$ but he does have his soft moments for his 'baby girl'.
Our heroine forgives way too easily, but she's very protective of her twin and there are moments she does try to stand her ground.
Steam Lvl: 3
Heroine: Virgin prior to hero
Hero: isn't a virgin but not a manwhore either./there is a wanna be girlfriend but no real ow drama. Once he's with the heroine he's focused on her.
Both are 18yrs old.
I liked it and will read book 2.
January 5, 2026
One of the worst things ive ever read in my life I'm not sure if its even worth bothering to write a proper review for. Surely the fmc has experienced some sort of head injury that can explain why she acts so irrationally how on earth can you gravitate towards someone who probably has fantasies about killing you. I get that she had a little summer fling with him but he literally strangled her on the first day of school so im pretty sure thats reason enough for no longer wanting to be with him. His reason for hating her was so flimsy like you know her family have hardly profited of their family wealth and even then shes just a teenager like you she doesnt have some sort of ancestorsly control over her family. I dont know how we're meant to root for these two as a couple cause there was zero chemistry cause most the plot consisted of him torturing her or wanting to fuck her. This girl has the backbone like a slinky shes known this man for a month and shes already gotten trapped by him and his manipulative family. Good luck to her cause this relationship will be so healthy considering that it started out with some wholesome bullying.
June 5, 2023
I remembered this book about 25% in. I'd read it before a long time ago, curiously I think it had a different name (not sure). I'd have to search my read list here in goodreads...or perhaps it was before I started posting in this community. I don't know if this was a reprinted version.
Besides the point, this was a bad book. Not only n the way both MC were presented, I don't want to judge that too much, but in the total simplicity of the situation they are in.
The torment inflicted was out of place and disproportional to anything required.
And Summer's submissiveness was so off putting.
I'd go as far as saying that if this book had a trigger warning or at least stated in the tags that
it had to do with voluntary submission I'd have known to stay clear. Public humiliation is not something lightly taken and in this case it was just swept to the side as if it never happened.
*Again, not judging, to each his own, but man were some parts of this book cringe worthy... especially for a virgin.
There is no redemption for Kingsley, at least not in this first book.
Besides the point, this was a bad book. Not only n the way both MC were presented, I don't want to judge that too much, but in the total simplicity of the situation they are in.
The torment inflicted was out of place and disproportional to anything required.
And Summer's submissiveness was so off putting.
I'd go as far as saying that if this book had a trigger warning or at least stated in the tags that
it had to do with voluntary submission I'd have known to stay clear. Public humiliation is not something lightly taken and in this case it was just swept to the side as if it never happened.
*Again, not judging, to each his own, but man were some parts of this book cringe worthy... especially for a virgin.
There is no redemption for Kingsley, at least not in this first book.
May 5, 2021
Surprisingly good
I tried to purchase this book in the past but was held off from the book's negative reviews. I did not want to waste time reading a bad book. Kingsley and Summer are two teenagers that meet during summer vacation, not knowing that their family surname is the cause of their dismissal, and multiple anguish situation described in the book. The female character I was not that fond of her personality at times; she was silly. Kingsley is the alpha guy, at times too aggressive towards Summer. I did not like the author’s reason for the book's central storyline consisting of the parents signing a marriage contract between the two main characters; it did not make much sense. Book one ends abruptly, and book two picks up suddenly, starting with a sex scene. However, the book was intriguing enough and piqued my curiosity. On the positive side, the Kingsley and Summer book has been completed; there is no need to wait for the following book.
I tried to purchase this book in the past but was held off from the book's negative reviews. I did not want to waste time reading a bad book. Kingsley and Summer are two teenagers that meet during summer vacation, not knowing that their family surname is the cause of their dismissal, and multiple anguish situation described in the book. The female character I was not that fond of her personality at times; she was silly. Kingsley is the alpha guy, at times too aggressive towards Summer. I did not like the author’s reason for the book's central storyline consisting of the parents signing a marriage contract between the two main characters; it did not make much sense. Book one ends abruptly, and book two picks up suddenly, starting with a sex scene. However, the book was intriguing enough and piqued my curiosity. On the positive side, the Kingsley and Summer book has been completed; there is no need to wait for the following book.
July 14, 2025
Listen okay it really wasn’t that bad, honestly maybe it’s because I’ve read a lot of bully romance books that include a lot more worst than this book. I don’t understand why someone reads a book label dark bully romance and then has a shock pikachu face when that’s what is delivered. I think some people would drop dead, if they read worst than enemies or fear me, because those books would make this book look like a saint.
Now why did I gave it 3 stars? It was good when the bully parts were delivered it fed my corrupted soul but I truly could’ve used more bully, do I need therapy? Probably, but it wasn’t enough it was like just a short amount of time and all of sudden instant love. That I do not care for, like you guys didn’t even talk much you just out here banging? Like how did you even fall in love?Don’t me get started on the ending but am I reading the next book? Yes, yes I am.
Now why did I gave it 3 stars? It was good when the bully parts were delivered it fed my corrupted soul but I truly could’ve used more bully, do I need therapy? Probably, but it wasn’t enough it was like just a short amount of time and all of sudden instant love. That I do not care for, like you guys didn’t even talk much you just out here banging? Like how did you even fall in love?Don’t me get started on the ending but am I reading the next book? Yes, yes I am.
July 1, 2020
It's just a book
The arguments in this book were a bit unbe!ievable. Yes, I know this is fiction but there is just a point where the weak justifications seem dramatized and overdone. Can you criticize a book character for bad acting? When it comes to bullying this story is on the softer side so there is a bit of room for an easy HEA. So yes this story has some perks. However, I'm left thinking that this author has much better work, so much so that you are absorbed into the story and don't sleep for days in other works In the end this particular book has no new world to be consumed, it is just a book that can be closed at anytime.
The arguments in this book were a bit unbe!ievable. Yes, I know this is fiction but there is just a point where the weak justifications seem dramatized and overdone. Can you criticize a book character for bad acting? When it comes to bullying this story is on the softer side so there is a bit of room for an easy HEA. So yes this story has some perks. However, I'm left thinking that this author has much better work, so much so that you are absorbed into the story and don't sleep for days in other works In the end this particular book has no new world to be consumed, it is just a book that can be closed at anytime.
October 8, 2021
Absolutely Amazing! Summer & Kingsley = Fire!
This beautiful, amazing, fantastic book!!! I love everything about this book. I love a great bully romance and this is just that and so much more.
Kingsley’s hatred for Summer goes way beyond just him liking her and picking on her! He has a great reason for his hatred and it is entertainment at its finest! Jennifer Sucevic has easily become a favorite author of mine! She is an incredible writer, her stories are amazing and grab your attention from the very first page! If you love a great bully romance or enemies to lovers, this is the book for you! A must read!!
This beautiful, amazing, fantastic book!!! I love everything about this book. I love a great bully romance and this is just that and so much more.
Kingsley’s hatred for Summer goes way beyond just him liking her and picking on her! He has a great reason for his hatred and it is entertainment at its finest! Jennifer Sucevic has easily become a favorite author of mine! She is an incredible writer, her stories are amazing and grab your attention from the very first page! If you love a great bully romance or enemies to lovers, this is the book for you! A must read!!
February 26, 2022
The Seduction of a Hawthorne by a Rothchild
Summer is on a beach vacation with her family when she meets a handsome stranger and they have fun hanging out. A sudden death in her family cuts their time short and they head home. A few months later and she's attending Hawthorne Prep and Kingsley, the handsome stranger comes back into her life. He's pissed off and wants nothing to do with her and she can't figure out why as she is drawn to him and he to her. The Hawthorne name apparently has been a huge burden in their new town and Summer and her twin Austin are finding out how big that burden is.
Summer is on a beach vacation with her family when she meets a handsome stranger and they have fun hanging out. A sudden death in her family cuts their time short and they head home. A few months later and she's attending Hawthorne Prep and Kingsley, the handsome stranger comes back into her life. He's pissed off and wants nothing to do with her and she can't figure out why as she is drawn to him and he to her. The Hawthorne name apparently has been a huge burden in their new town and Summer and her twin Austin are finding out how big that burden is.
September 28, 2022
Ja opzich wel oke. Er is een cliffhanger, maar je kan het opzich wel een open einde noemen. Ik ga de vervolgen niet lezen. Er was nu al een vinger in de perzik. Heftig dat zij en haar broer gepest werden door hun achternaam door wat hun opa's gedaan hebben...
Ik snapte niet waarom ze niet tegen hun ouders zeiden over het gepest.
Ook echt just ur luck dat je ouders een pact hebben gemaakt dat hun kinderen met elkaar moeten trouwen zodat jullie kind elkaars bloed delen.
Ik snapte ook niet wat het nut van Kingsley's wraak was. Hij is possessive, dus om haar zonder bh op school te laten lopen was erg apart. Mwa.
Ik snapte niet waarom ze niet tegen hun ouders zeiden over het gepest.
Ook echt just ur luck dat je ouders een pact hebben gemaakt dat hun kinderen met elkaar moeten trouwen zodat jullie kind elkaars bloed delen.
Ik snapte ook niet wat het nut van Kingsley's wraak was. Hij is possessive, dus om haar zonder bh op school te laten lopen was erg apart. Mwa.
February 11, 2023
Okay... where to start?
On one hand, this is a typical start to an Enemies to Lovers series where the main characters are teens. On the other hand, nothing is as simple as that.
Poor Summer has no idea why the sweet boy she met over summer break is such a tool now. She knows nothing of her family's dark history. Kingsley hasn't idea she is in the dark. It is basically a recipe for disaster...
I like the main characters and Summer's twin. The parents of both get negative points. Using their children like pawns. I super hope they get what's coming to them and are cut out of their children's lives.
Overall, this was a solid start, and I look forward to the other books.
On one hand, this is a typical start to an Enemies to Lovers series where the main characters are teens. On the other hand, nothing is as simple as that.
Poor Summer has no idea why the sweet boy she met over summer break is such a tool now. She knows nothing of her family's dark history. Kingsley hasn't idea she is in the dark. It is basically a recipe for disaster...
I like the main characters and Summer's twin. The parents of both get negative points. Using their children like pawns. I super hope they get what's coming to them and are cut out of their children's lives.
Overall, this was a solid start, and I look forward to the other books.
February 14, 2025
This story was so good, addictive and hoottt
I have to be honest here, i really loved this book, even though is a light and easy read, i was surprised for it to be so spicy and for the story to turn into a bully romance and I'm saying this in the best way possible! Although i would have wanted to know more about Kingsley the MMC so i could understand more about his hatred and anger towards her, I really enjoyed it, i think the writing was nice and I couldn't put it down, I want to dig right in the second book where I hope we can have a more deep view of the characters and to wrap this story up, I'm rooting for them!
I have to be honest here, i really loved this book, even though is a light and easy read, i was surprised for it to be so spicy and for the story to turn into a bully romance and I'm saying this in the best way possible! Although i would have wanted to know more about Kingsley the MMC so i could understand more about his hatred and anger towards her, I really enjoyed it, i think the writing was nice and I couldn't put it down, I want to dig right in the second book where I hope we can have a more deep view of the characters and to wrap this story up, I'm rooting for them!
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