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Hillcrest University #1-6
Hillcrest University: Year One
Welcome to Hillcrest University, where the guys are dangerous, the love is hard, and the consequences are killer.
I used to think it was my lucky break to nab a full-tuition scholarship to the ultra-prestigious Hillcrest University, but when I get thrown into a feud between ex best friends, I start to think differently.
Sawyer, the handsome ladies’ man who took to booze and drugs when he lost his sister. Declan, my new cute roommate who lost himself to depression after losing his girlfriend. Travis, the tattooed, mysterious outsider who radiates danger with everything he does. And who can forget Will, Decan’s older, more mature brother?
The feud between them isn’t the only problem in Hillcrest, though. They’re not the only ones with murky pasts.
Hillcrest was supposed to be a new start, but my first year is set to be a bloody one.
**Hillcrest University: Year One, is a complete collection of Ash’s first year at Hillcrest. This is a RH series, meaning multiple love interests and eventual steamy scenes. This series contains dark themes including stalking and violence. This box set also includes a never-before-seen summer novella.**
I used to think it was my lucky break to nab a full-tuition scholarship to the ultra-prestigious Hillcrest University, but when I get thrown into a feud between ex best friends, I start to think differently.
Sawyer, the handsome ladies’ man who took to booze and drugs when he lost his sister. Declan, my new cute roommate who lost himself to depression after losing his girlfriend. Travis, the tattooed, mysterious outsider who radiates danger with everything he does. And who can forget Will, Decan’s older, more mature brother?
The feud between them isn’t the only problem in Hillcrest, though. They’re not the only ones with murky pasts.
Hillcrest was supposed to be a new start, but my first year is set to be a bloody one.
**Hillcrest University: Year One, is a complete collection of Ash’s first year at Hillcrest. This is a RH series, meaning multiple love interests and eventual steamy scenes. This series contains dark themes including stalking and violence. This box set also includes a never-before-seen summer novella.**
1210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 31, 2020
599 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Candace Wondrak
116 books1,845 followersHey guys! I'm a writer, an office worker, a wife, a mother to two dogs and two cats, and half of a strange pair of young adults who flip the houses they're living in with the goal of having no mortgage (so that I can eventually focus on my writing career!). Needless to say, I'm busy.
Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
If you're active on Goodreads and have similar interests, friend me. I don't bite. Or if you'd rather follow my reviews, you can do that, too.
Happy reading!
Link to newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dppf_v
Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
If you're active on Goodreads and have similar interests, friend me. I don't bite. Or if you'd rather follow my reviews, you can do that, too.
Happy reading!
Link to newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dppf_v
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
August 30, 2020
Just like that...
[Edited to add: Please leave a review on this boxset if you have read all the Hillcrest University series. The author has other books she's working on but said she will start working on Year Two if this gets 75 reviews. Only 25 to go. I love this series so please help lol.]
... I am literally sucked back in. I don't know how Candace does it, but every single time it happens.The summer novella at the end, wow!!
I love these characters and their world... especially their drama. Plus those guys!
So, this is the Hillcrest University boxset with a Summer novella. As always, there's just enough to get things going again. Year Two?!?! Yes please!
I think I may have a rather unhealthy obsession with the Scott family and all the characters they interact with. Yep, I admit it.
Love it!
[Edited to add: Please leave a review on this boxset if you have read all the Hillcrest University series. The author has other books she's working on but said she will start working on Year Two if this gets 75 reviews. Only 25 to go. I love this series so please help lol.]
... I am literally sucked back in. I don't know how Candace does it, but every single time it happens.The summer novella at the end, wow!!
I love these characters and their world... especially their drama. Plus those guys!
So, this is the Hillcrest University boxset with a Summer novella. As always, there's just enough to get things going again. Year Two?!?! Yes please!
I think I may have a rather unhealthy obsession with the Scott family and all the characters they interact with. Yep, I admit it.
Love it!
January 16, 2022
DNF @ 40% - I really enjoyed the first book. I liked Ash a lot. She felt real and relatable. The dynamics of the guys as former best friends was interesting, plus plenty of mystery to keep me reading. Plus I enjoyed the Multi-POV. So, Book 1 was a 4⭐ read for me. Then each book after that was less enjoyable, and I'm now tapping out during book 3, where I just can't take it any more. In book 3, Ash walks the line of TSTL the whole time and trips over it more than once. She goes in a direction and just loses me completely. There's so much repetition in the book too. Like instead of progressing the plot, we're stuck in Ash's internal monologue loop and the guys not knowing what's going on. The pacing was painful as was Ash's rationalization for her behavior and actions.
August 13, 2020
Wow, just wow. I wasn’t able to put this (these) books down, I was hooked on what was going to happen next! Honestly, I was not expecting all the twists and turns that the author just put me through. Amazing.
I’m at a loss of words 😂
I’m at a loss of words 😂
July 28, 2020
I love having all these books in one place.. trust me you don't want the bother of having to put one down to pick the next up, not with the suspense that Candace leaves us with.
These books were everything you needed in the emotions of reading. Suspense, horror, blood, gore, passion, heartbreak, tender moments, it has it all in spades.
I loved these books and a reread is already on my mind!!
These books were everything you needed in the emotions of reading. Suspense, horror, blood, gore, passion, heartbreak, tender moments, it has it all in spades.
I loved these books and a reread is already on my mind!!
September 7, 2020
Year One. This was actually 6 books in one:
Loser
Freak
Skank
Psycho
Killer
Liar
+ Summer (novella)
I have to say, the titles of these books really are catchy. I do enjoy the original covers vs this one for the boxset.
Disclaimer: I enjoy pitch black reads and I am not really fond of school/university type books. But since I have read some other books written by this author, I figured I would give it a go. Especially since it was mentioned that there is a slight crossover with one of the book series I enjoyed.
The entirety of this storyline revolves around our main girl, Ash[ley], who has been accepted into an all boys prestigious University.
___________
HU was one of the few colleges left in the United States that only accepted male students. Privately owned, it was full of people with money.
___________
Supposedly, the dean felt that our girl would be a great test for the possibility of a future incorporation of coed.
Enter our 3 musketeers ... or rather, our 3 boys of drama:
Declan
Travis
Sawyer
Our dear Ash has literally been dropped right in the middle of all their boy drama: best friends who grew up together turned ex best friends. What's a girl to do? Figure out what in the heck is going on of course. There is a mystery that surrounds our characters and Hillcrest as well.
____________
A strange sense of foreboding rose within me.
____________
Declan can be described as an almost boy next door feel. Travis is the mysterious one. He seems to sport a flat affect most of the time which only lends one to believe that he is well at hiding things behind those eyes. And Sawyer, he's the typical playboy ... "aint got a care in the world" kind of guy.
I did find Ash's initial description of Sawyer kind of funny.
____________
Sawyer practically screamed player. Tool. Douche canoe. Whatever word you wanted to use to describe him. They all fit.
____________
As you can see, Ash is our no nonsense girl from the other side of the tracks where these boys are concerned. As the story progresses we come to find out a little bit more about these guys and how they came to be where they are now : ex best friends. Besides the initial mystery surrounding Hillcrest, more secrets and more mysteries seem to spring up left and right .. intertwining.
Does the story get dark? I would say so. But I would not classify it as dark dark or even pitch black. The novella at the end of the boxset has a great set up for a possibility of future books. It is a HFN type of ending with a small sense of mystery of what's to come.
My overall impressions: I think if this was the first book by Candace Wondrak that I was to come across..I may have enjoyed it a little more. But because I have already read her other works like : Cruel Black Hearts, Grimmstead Academy .. I knew what the author was capable of, and The Hillcrest University left me a little unsatisfied. The mysteries and turns were the only thing that kept me going, but the rest of the story .. I was struggling a bit to plow through. But again, my tastes may be vastly different from those who DO enjoy books like these ... which is why I gave it 4 stars. Just because it's not to par with what I usually prefer does not make it a bad book/series.
The author's writing is very easy to read. And for that I will leave this review since I know there are many fans out there that are hungering for a year two. If or when that happens ... I'm not sure I will continue. Unless of course there's more Markus.
Loser
Freak
Skank
Psycho
Killer
Liar
+ Summer (novella)
I have to say, the titles of these books really are catchy. I do enjoy the original covers vs this one for the boxset.
Disclaimer: I enjoy pitch black reads and I am not really fond of school/university type books. But since I have read some other books written by this author, I figured I would give it a go. Especially since it was mentioned that there is a slight crossover with one of the book series I enjoyed.
The entirety of this storyline revolves around our main girl, Ash[ley], who has been accepted into an all boys prestigious University.
___________
HU was one of the few colleges left in the United States that only accepted male students. Privately owned, it was full of people with money.
___________
Supposedly, the dean felt that our girl would be a great test for the possibility of a future incorporation of coed.
Enter our 3 musketeers ... or rather, our 3 boys of drama:
Declan
Travis
Sawyer
Our dear Ash has literally been dropped right in the middle of all their boy drama: best friends who grew up together turned ex best friends. What's a girl to do? Figure out what in the heck is going on of course. There is a mystery that surrounds our characters and Hillcrest as well.
____________
A strange sense of foreboding rose within me.
____________
Declan can be described as an almost boy next door feel. Travis is the mysterious one. He seems to sport a flat affect most of the time which only lends one to believe that he is well at hiding things behind those eyes. And Sawyer, he's the typical playboy ... "aint got a care in the world" kind of guy.
I did find Ash's initial description of Sawyer kind of funny.
____________
Sawyer practically screamed player. Tool. Douche canoe. Whatever word you wanted to use to describe him. They all fit.
____________
As you can see, Ash is our no nonsense girl from the other side of the tracks where these boys are concerned. As the story progresses we come to find out a little bit more about these guys and how they came to be where they are now : ex best friends. Besides the initial mystery surrounding Hillcrest, more secrets and more mysteries seem to spring up left and right .. intertwining.
Does the story get dark? I would say so. But I would not classify it as dark dark or even pitch black. The novella at the end of the boxset has a great set up for a possibility of future books. It is a HFN type of ending with a small sense of mystery of what's to come.
My overall impressions: I think if this was the first book by Candace Wondrak that I was to come across..I may have enjoyed it a little more. But because I have already read her other works like : Cruel Black Hearts, Grimmstead Academy .. I knew what the author was capable of, and The Hillcrest University left me a little unsatisfied. The mysteries and turns were the only thing that kept me going, but the rest of the story .. I was struggling a bit to plow through. But again, my tastes may be vastly different from those who DO enjoy books like these ... which is why I gave it 4 stars. Just because it's not to par with what I usually prefer does not make it a bad book/series.
The author's writing is very easy to read. And for that I will leave this review since I know there are many fans out there that are hungering for a year two. If or when that happens ... I'm not sure I will continue. Unless of course there's more Markus.
September 3, 2020
Year One Boxset by Candace Wondrak
I Give This Boxset a 4-4.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
Please keep in mind that I love Dark Reads so my rating towards Dark will be different than others :)
This series was SO WELL PACED! Seriously! There’s not a lot of heat in this Series, but the story line is so well written that when Heat DID happen it was perfectly timed.
I highly anticipate reading a Second Year, when it happens! 😃🥰
HEA(?)/HFN(?): This is an HFN:
Loved the cliffhanger at the end of the Novella!
😃
I Give Zero Spoilers.
Book 1: Loser
Rating: 4/5
Heat: 2/5, which is not at all a bad thing! ☺️
Romance(?): Not Yet, Attraction(?): Yes
Dark(?): Not Yet, Dark Lite(?): Yes, 1.5/5.
Suspense: 3/5
Drama: 3.5/5
Relationship Type: Unknown at this point lol 😆
Pacing: Evenly Paced, Not Rushed Thankfully.
Great intro to the series, you get to know some of the characters and I’m very curious about the unanswered questions & the mystery.
Book 2: Freak
Rating: 3.5-4/5
Heat: Low Sizzle, 2/5 and that isn’t a bad thing at all. Fits well, it’s at a great pace and not rushed in the least.
Attraction/Affection: 3/5
Dark(?): Not to me, 0/5. Opinions may differ lol, but I can tell it’s going to get dark.
Suspense: 4-4.5/5
Drama: 3.5-4/5
Relationship Type: Not Quite Certain.
Pacing: Really Good, Not Rushed at All.
It’s a slow build, still in the process of getting used to everyone. Lots of mystery still hanging around, I’m just going to dive into Book 3. Lol
Book 3: Skank
Rating: 4/5
Dark(?): 2-2.5/5
Heat: 2/5
Attraction: 3.5/5
Drama: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
Relationship Type: RH, but not yet.
Pacing: Decently Paced, Not Rushed.
Very Engrossing, pulls you right in and it’s almost like you can’t flip the pages fast enough Lol
Making this short, I’m jumping into Book 4!
Book 4: Psycho
Rating: 4.5/5
Dark(?): 2.5-3/5
Heat: 3.5:5
Romance: 3/5
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 4/5
Relationship Type: RH
Pacing: Medium Pacing, not too fast and not too slow.
The puzzle pieces are coming together, and a Reverse Harem is slowly forming. I don’t want to give anything away so no spoilers again.
I’m just going to jump into then next book ☺️
Book 5: Killer
Rating: 4.5/5
Dark(?): 3-3.5/5
Heat: 3.5/5
Romance: 3.5-4/5
Drama: 4-4.5/5
Suspense: 4.5/5
Relationship Type: RH
Pacing: Steady Flow
Your on the edge of your seat, still a real page turner, and finally have some answers! 😂
I’m gonna hop into the next Book :)
Book 6: Liar
Rating: 4.5/5
Dark(?): 3/5
Heat: 3.5-4/5
Romance: 4/5
Drama: 5/5
Suspense:4.5/5
Relationship Type: RH MFMM
Pacing: Fairly well paced.
I couldn’t put this book down, and when I had to I kept thinking about the characters 😂. I felt like the story kept going if I turned away from the pages, and I’d miss something 🤣. This book interfered with my sleep and I Like My Sleep! Lol
This book was seriously addictive!
Very excited to read the Novella now!
Novella 7: Summer
Rating: 4/5
Dark(?): Not Really, 1.5/5 :)
Romance: 4.5/5
Drama: 3.5/5
Suspense: 2/5
Relationship Type: RH
Pacing: it’s a decent pace.
Heat: 4/5, I just wish Ash’s POV was dominant in the heat area. Having the guys POV is great, but I missed hers.
This was a very easy going read, it’s a palate cleanser read and Enjoyed the cliffhanger!
I Give This Boxset a 4-4.5/5 Star Rating, Listing as 4.
Please keep in mind that I love Dark Reads so my rating towards Dark will be different than others :)
This series was SO WELL PACED! Seriously! There’s not a lot of heat in this Series, but the story line is so well written that when Heat DID happen it was perfectly timed.
I highly anticipate reading a Second Year, when it happens! 😃🥰
HEA(?)/HFN(?): This is an HFN:
Loved the cliffhanger at the end of the Novella!
😃
I Give Zero Spoilers.
Book 1: Loser
Rating: 4/5
Heat: 2/5, which is not at all a bad thing! ☺️
Romance(?): Not Yet, Attraction(?): Yes
Dark(?): Not Yet, Dark Lite(?): Yes, 1.5/5.
Suspense: 3/5
Drama: 3.5/5
Relationship Type: Unknown at this point lol 😆
Pacing: Evenly Paced, Not Rushed Thankfully.
Great intro to the series, you get to know some of the characters and I’m very curious about the unanswered questions & the mystery.
Book 2: Freak
Rating: 3.5-4/5
Heat: Low Sizzle, 2/5 and that isn’t a bad thing at all. Fits well, it’s at a great pace and not rushed in the least.
Attraction/Affection: 3/5
Dark(?): Not to me, 0/5. Opinions may differ lol, but I can tell it’s going to get dark.
Suspense: 4-4.5/5
Drama: 3.5-4/5
Relationship Type: Not Quite Certain.
Pacing: Really Good, Not Rushed at All.
It’s a slow build, still in the process of getting used to everyone. Lots of mystery still hanging around, I’m just going to dive into Book 3. Lol
Book 3: Skank
Rating: 4/5
Dark(?): 2-2.5/5
Heat: 2/5
Attraction: 3.5/5
Drama: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
Relationship Type: RH, but not yet.
Pacing: Decently Paced, Not Rushed.
Very Engrossing, pulls you right in and it’s almost like you can’t flip the pages fast enough Lol
Making this short, I’m jumping into Book 4!
Book 4: Psycho
Rating: 4.5/5
Dark(?): 2.5-3/5
Heat: 3.5:5
Romance: 3/5
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 4/5
Relationship Type: RH
Pacing: Medium Pacing, not too fast and not too slow.
The puzzle pieces are coming together, and a Reverse Harem is slowly forming. I don’t want to give anything away so no spoilers again.
I’m just going to jump into then next book ☺️
Book 5: Killer
Rating: 4.5/5
Dark(?): 3-3.5/5
Heat: 3.5/5
Romance: 3.5-4/5
Drama: 4-4.5/5
Suspense: 4.5/5
Relationship Type: RH
Pacing: Steady Flow
Your on the edge of your seat, still a real page turner, and finally have some answers! 😂
I’m gonna hop into the next Book :)
Book 6: Liar
Rating: 4.5/5
Dark(?): 3/5
Heat: 3.5-4/5
Romance: 4/5
Drama: 5/5
Suspense:4.5/5
Relationship Type: RH MFMM
Pacing: Fairly well paced.
I couldn’t put this book down, and when I had to I kept thinking about the characters 😂. I felt like the story kept going if I turned away from the pages, and I’d miss something 🤣. This book interfered with my sleep and I Like My Sleep! Lol
This book was seriously addictive!
Very excited to read the Novella now!
Novella 7: Summer
Rating: 4/5
Dark(?): Not Really, 1.5/5 :)
Romance: 4.5/5
Drama: 3.5/5
Suspense: 2/5
Relationship Type: RH
Pacing: it’s a decent pace.
Heat: 4/5, I just wish Ash’s POV was dominant in the heat area. Having the guys POV is great, but I missed hers.
This was a very easy going read, it’s a palate cleanser read and Enjoyed the cliffhanger!
August 14, 2020
Ok, this is the longest review I've done to date, this series is everything.
Okay, here goes. I've loved this whole series right from the start. The deceit, mysterious circumstances, Ash's shady background and a handful of guys. Minor spoilers from this point on.
I loved unraveling each story as it went along and it only ever got better. I quickly fell in deep getting to know and love Sawyer, Declan and Travis and their pasts. Best friends who had a falling out, and with Ash as their center, they're learning to move past their "differences."
I highly recommend, 5 stars. The oh sh*t moment when it all hits the fan. You will love it. The twists and mystery. You. Will. Love. It. All.
Yes yes yes yes. I love this new Sawyer (as seen in the novella), he warms my little heart. He's vulnerable but he knows what he wants and needs and that's Ash.
Will saddens me. He went through so much, the secrets and the lies and his family. It was all just too much. I would have liked to see more of him in this short novella but I know you have plans for him in Year 2!!
And as for Travis, yum!! I missed that psycho. I can't wait to see what's next with Faceless! Also, Ash's dad calling adamantly, gives me goosebumps. As in maybe something bad happened with her mom and I'm irritated she wouldn't hear him out. Lol, speculation. OR something even more crazier as to why he's been gone forever like he's a serial killer or something ?! I need to know!!
Okay, here goes. I've loved this whole series right from the start. The deceit, mysterious circumstances, Ash's shady background and a handful of guys. Minor spoilers from this point on.
I loved unraveling each story as it went along and it only ever got better. I quickly fell in deep getting to know and love Sawyer, Declan and Travis and their pasts. Best friends who had a falling out, and with Ash as their center, they're learning to move past their "differences."
I highly recommend, 5 stars. The oh sh*t moment when it all hits the fan. You will love it. The twists and mystery. You. Will. Love. It. All.
Yes yes yes yes. I love this new Sawyer (as seen in the novella), he warms my little heart. He's vulnerable but he knows what he wants and needs and that's Ash.
Will saddens me. He went through so much, the secrets and the lies and his family. It was all just too much. I would have liked to see more of him in this short novella but I know you have plans for him in Year 2!!
And as for Travis, yum!! I missed that psycho. I can't wait to see what's next with Faceless! Also, Ash's dad calling adamantly, gives me goosebumps. As in maybe something bad happened with her mom and I'm irritated she wouldn't hear him out. Lol, speculation. OR something even more crazier as to why he's been gone forever like he's a serial killer or something ?! I need to know!!
May 31, 2021
please note trigger warnings in these books before reading*
Please bear with me whilst I try not do war & peace trying to digest six faaaab books!
Ash is the first girl to attend the all balls university Hillcrest University as a trial before they start to enrol girls in the future. Ash gets roomed with Dominic who comes with dramatic baggage which is Sawyer & Travis who are out to make his life hell. Little does Ash know her past with creep up on her and they get dragged into her mess.
Holy fuck. These books are a ride! Starts off with the first book or two with drama around Dominic and his past with Sawyers sister but then Ash and her drama comes into the mix and her boys who she realllllly wants to keep at arms length are hell bent in getting her and keeping her safe. But as they all don’t get along, can she bring them back together as well?
The secrets
The lies
Everyone seems to have their agenda in these books and are all connected with hiding stuff from everyone.
THE PLOT TWISTS, you do not see them coming as everyone in every book seems sketchy and has their own agenda and secrets to bare but jesssssus. I was GASPING whenever I was caught off guard 😣🤯
I know in RH you shouldn’t really have a fave but by the end although majority of the books he was a diiiick, sawyer really grew on me, the sad broken playboy and travis the psycho holds a torch as well🔥
I honestly by the end of this series was shook to the core. I need Year Two like .. yesterday 🤯
Please bear with me whilst I try not do war & peace trying to digest six faaaab books!
Ash is the first girl to attend the all balls university Hillcrest University as a trial before they start to enrol girls in the future. Ash gets roomed with Dominic who comes with dramatic baggage which is Sawyer & Travis who are out to make his life hell. Little does Ash know her past with creep up on her and they get dragged into her mess.
Holy fuck. These books are a ride! Starts off with the first book or two with drama around Dominic and his past with Sawyers sister but then Ash and her drama comes into the mix and her boys who she realllllly wants to keep at arms length are hell bent in getting her and keeping her safe. But as they all don’t get along, can she bring them back together as well?
The secrets
The lies
Everyone seems to have their agenda in these books and are all connected with hiding stuff from everyone.
THE PLOT TWISTS, you do not see them coming as everyone in every book seems sketchy and has their own agenda and secrets to bare but jesssssus. I was GASPING whenever I was caught off guard 😣🤯
I know in RH you shouldn’t really have a fave but by the end although majority of the books he was a diiiick, sawyer really grew on me, the sad broken playboy and travis the psycho holds a torch as well🔥
I honestly by the end of this series was shook to the core. I need Year Two like .. yesterday 🤯
August 10, 2020
I love this series
The Hillcrest University series blew my mind! This author is one of the few who really delivers the kind of books I love to read. The books are dark, twisted, totally make me question my moral compass, but they're oh so satisfying to read.
There is something therapeutic about reading dark romance and no-one does it quite like this author. In this series she took me on a crazy rollercoaster ride where I never knew what to expect. The plot twists and turns in a way I know I have to just accept it and let it happen to see how it plays out and that's when the magic happens.
But, not only the plot is outstanding. The way these characters grow over the course of the story is something I truly admire. There is development in spades and just like with the plot, you have to see where they take you.
This box set is one of the series that ties into Candace Wondrak's Midpark universe, which is without a single doubt my favourite book universe. The Scott Family is mysterious and dark and the books surrounding said family all give you different perspectives into the bigger picture.
If you like very jealous possessive book boyfriends with a hint of crazy, this one's for you. You will not regret it!
And oh the potential and little easter eggs teasing me for more of these characters are killing me. I need MORE.
The Hillcrest University series blew my mind! This author is one of the few who really delivers the kind of books I love to read. The books are dark, twisted, totally make me question my moral compass, but they're oh so satisfying to read.
There is something therapeutic about reading dark romance and no-one does it quite like this author. In this series she took me on a crazy rollercoaster ride where I never knew what to expect. The plot twists and turns in a way I know I have to just accept it and let it happen to see how it plays out and that's when the magic happens.
But, not only the plot is outstanding. The way these characters grow over the course of the story is something I truly admire. There is development in spades and just like with the plot, you have to see where they take you.
This box set is one of the series that ties into Candace Wondrak's Midpark universe, which is without a single doubt my favourite book universe. The Scott Family is mysterious and dark and the books surrounding said family all give you different perspectives into the bigger picture.
If you like very jealous possessive book boyfriends with a hint of crazy, this one's for you. You will not regret it!
And oh the potential and little easter eggs teasing me for more of these characters are killing me. I need MORE.
August 30, 2020
Whoa🤯🤯
I'm dead.....🤯🤯☠️☠️
So I just want to cry after finishing that. I read this set before it was published as a full set. And I decided to re-read it because it was FREAKING amazing!! And the set came with a special addition ending. So totally worth the re-read. I've been on the roller coaster with Ash and her pychos and serial killer ex's for days. The addition just sucked my heart right out... Like whhhhat.... After after thing they have over come how can there be more?!?! Things are about to get even more twisted... Can't wait to see where this story goes though!!!🤫😳😳
The steamy scenes are oh my wow!! 🎉🎉The relationships between Ash and all the guys really really do feed off one another. And she loves the for different reasons all special for themselves. But they all complete their love triangle. It's such a freaking amazing story. I love each character for multiple reasons. I really really really hope this story continues. Especially after reading the addition and the way it ended.
If you have not read this series please do your self a favor and check it out!! You will not be sorry!!
I'm dead.....🤯🤯☠️☠️
So I just want to cry after finishing that. I read this set before it was published as a full set. And I decided to re-read it because it was FREAKING amazing!! And the set came with a special addition ending. So totally worth the re-read. I've been on the roller coaster with Ash and her pychos and serial killer ex's for days. The addition just sucked my heart right out... Like whhhhat.... After after thing they have over come how can there be more?!?! Things are about to get even more twisted... Can't wait to see where this story goes though!!!🤫😳😳
The steamy scenes are oh my wow!! 🎉🎉The relationships between Ash and all the guys really really do feed off one another. And she loves the for different reasons all special for themselves. But they all complete their love triangle. It's such a freaking amazing story. I love each character for multiple reasons. I really really really hope this story continues. Especially after reading the addition and the way it ended.
If you have not read this series please do your self a favor and check it out!! You will not be sorry!!
July 31, 2020
Warning ⚠️: Send all little dependant people to grandparents or friends. While you're at it, send equally needy significant others out too. Make sure your favourite snacks and drinks are nearby. This book - it will sink it's claws into you from the very first page.
Candace has that magical way with words that all writers aspire to - you are inside the character's head, fully immersed in the story. Once you've been sucked into her world, you'll find it difficult to claw your way back into the real world.
Hillcrest University is not your typical, everyday series. Don't let that pink cover fool you. You won't find fluffy cotton candy rainbows here.
Death. Murder. Mayhem. Pain. Betrayal. Revenge.
Hillcrest University Year One is the story of Ash and her guys. Will Ash survive what they've got planned? Come into the dark with me and find out.
This book deserves every single ⭐⭐⭐⭐ and more!
P.S. If you read this series the first time round - this boxset contains a bonus novella!
Candace has that magical way with words that all writers aspire to - you are inside the character's head, fully immersed in the story. Once you've been sucked into her world, you'll find it difficult to claw your way back into the real world.
Hillcrest University is not your typical, everyday series. Don't let that pink cover fool you. You won't find fluffy cotton candy rainbows here.
Death. Murder. Mayhem. Pain. Betrayal. Revenge.
Hillcrest University Year One is the story of Ash and her guys. Will Ash survive what they've got planned? Come into the dark with me and find out.
This book deserves every single ⭐⭐⭐⭐ and more!
P.S. If you read this series the first time round - this boxset contains a bonus novella!
October 14, 2020
It was good
The books were good l, the only thing I didn't like was Ash's inconsistency. She was so undecided all the time. She was a tough, then she was meek and a doormat. Her going back with Ray even though she despised him and sleeping with him was too much for me. I kind of am not looking forward to the next books either. I think it was a good place to wrap these characters up. The way it's leaving off there's going to be another psycho who has the hots for Ash. I mean come on that's too much drama for one chick even if it is fictional. I like my books to atleast be somewhat realistic. The relationships aren't that bad that doesn't bother me I just am not invested enough to care who else might come along to try and drag this out further for these characters. It was at a good place to leave them. Just my opinion on it. Others may be excited about it. I'm just not.
The books were good l, the only thing I didn't like was Ash's inconsistency. She was so undecided all the time. She was a tough, then she was meek and a doormat. Her going back with Ray even though she despised him and sleeping with him was too much for me. I kind of am not looking forward to the next books either. I think it was a good place to wrap these characters up. The way it's leaving off there's going to be another psycho who has the hots for Ash. I mean come on that's too much drama for one chick even if it is fictional. I like my books to atleast be somewhat realistic. The relationships aren't that bad that doesn't bother me I just am not invested enough to care who else might come along to try and drag this out further for these characters. It was at a good place to leave them. Just my opinion on it. Others may be excited about it. I'm just not.
April 6, 2021
So far I've enjoyed all of the books by this author. I really wish I could find a timeline to follow a little better because there are a lot of cameo crossovers. You don't have to read the other series from what I've gotten in these cameos but I have a feeling I would enjoy them more if I read them in order.
As for Hillcrest, lets just say I will happily read Year 2, so fingers crossed. I do think a lot of Year 1 could have been condensed, so I'm hopeful Year 2 will be.
SPOILER BELOW!
My only issue I really had out of all of the books (spoiler!!!) was that I felt like the night after Halloween was rape and yet Ash calls it sex. Technically every time they had sex it would have been rape as she was manipulated and way too young to consent. But I definitely feel as though Halloween was without a doubt non-consensual and should have been acknowledged as such in the books.
As for Hillcrest, lets just say I will happily read Year 2, so fingers crossed. I do think a lot of Year 1 could have been condensed, so I'm hopeful Year 2 will be.
SPOILER BELOW!
My only issue I really had out of all of the books (spoiler!!!) was that I felt like the night after Halloween was rape and yet Ash calls it sex. Technically every time they had sex it would have been rape as she was manipulated and way too young to consent. But I definitely feel as though Halloween was without a doubt non-consensual and should have been acknowledged as such in the books.
June 16, 2021
Loved this book
I absolutely Loved this series and can't wait for year two. I so need you to continue Ash and her boy's story. Okay, some spoilers here. Let's just say I love the new and improved Sawyer. He is so funny and snarky and is perfect when Ash does it back. Declan is super sweet and loving he makes me swoon. Travis is definitely the dark and sexy one. But I really do love Will too. I know, I know if this was real life you wouldn't want someone like him in your life but this isn't real life so I really do want him to be happy and get love whether it's with Ash or someone else, I need to read about him getting love. He obviously needs help with his hallucinations and then Travis' family can be good for him then he needs love and his brother ☺. Okay, now I love the mystery and now there is Faceless another crazy person to deal with. Can't wait for Year Two!
I absolutely Loved this series and can't wait for year two. I so need you to continue Ash and her boy's story. Okay, some spoilers here. Let's just say I love the new and improved Sawyer. He is so funny and snarky and is perfect when Ash does it back. Declan is super sweet and loving he makes me swoon. Travis is definitely the dark and sexy one. But I really do love Will too. I know, I know if this was real life you wouldn't want someone like him in your life but this isn't real life so I really do want him to be happy and get love whether it's with Ash or someone else, I need to read about him getting love. He obviously needs help with his hallucinations and then Travis' family can be good for him then he needs love and his brother ☺. Okay, now I love the mystery and now there is Faceless another crazy person to deal with. Can't wait for Year Two!
August 5, 2020
One of my favorite series!
So I have followed Ash’s story since day 1 and I was super excited for the box set with the Summer novella!! I loved submersing myself within the crazy life of Ash and her men again with the extra summer loving at the end. This entire series is full of thrills, dark twists, betrayal, and murder but Ash goes through it all with her men by her side (most of the time 😉)
I love how the author has left it open for another series focusing on Ash which has me anxiously waiting for what comes next from Candace. She could write just about anything and immediately enthrall me for hours with her story telling. I highly recommend this series and this box set. All the books in one place with a funny and steamy extra at the end!!
So I have followed Ash’s story since day 1 and I was super excited for the box set with the Summer novella!! I loved submersing myself within the crazy life of Ash and her men again with the extra summer loving at the end. This entire series is full of thrills, dark twists, betrayal, and murder but Ash goes through it all with her men by her side (most of the time 😉)
I love how the author has left it open for another series focusing on Ash which has me anxiously waiting for what comes next from Candace. She could write just about anything and immediately enthrall me for hours with her story telling. I highly recommend this series and this box set. All the books in one place with a funny and steamy extra at the end!!
June 21, 2021
Let me tell you about Hillcrest academy. Ash is a totally badass female but she does have moment of lapse judgment. She meets sawyer, Declan and Travis. Sawyer and Travis have a deep drive to push Declan out because of rift over Sabrina( sawyer sister and Declan ex girlfriend) who found dead. They rule it a suicide but Sawyer blames Declan for it even though Sawyer doesn’t know the rule truth of how Sabrina was sleeping around. But back to Ash, she totally owns Sawyer and doesn’t let him try to control since she’s Declan roommate. They all fall for Ash for many reason and let’s not talk about Will. He was a little too crazy for me. I’m glad Travis followed him and let Ash see the truth. Overall, I’m excited for year two!! I read over 1300 pages and I am still hungry for more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2020
🤯Mind blowing🤯
Hillcrest University Year One is a Reverse Harem Romance and it’s heart wrenching, mind blowing, and an intense emotional roller coaster ride throughout the entire series.
Ash and her guys - Declan, Sawyer, and Travis all take you on a whirlwind journey full of the unexpected, mystery, secrets, lies, betrayal, and SO MUCH MORE.
Once I started reading this amazing series I couldn’t put it down and had to read the entire series within a couple of days.
If you love reading angsty, suspenseful, emotional, and mind blowing reads than I highly recommend this series to you!
Hillcrest University Year One is a Reverse Harem Romance and it’s heart wrenching, mind blowing, and an intense emotional roller coaster ride throughout the entire series.
Ash and her guys - Declan, Sawyer, and Travis all take you on a whirlwind journey full of the unexpected, mystery, secrets, lies, betrayal, and SO MUCH MORE.
Once I started reading this amazing series I couldn’t put it down and had to read the entire series within a couple of days.
If you love reading angsty, suspenseful, emotional, and mind blowing reads than I highly recommend this series to you!
January 28, 2021
So glad this box set is here to review as one whole ‘book’.
I LOVED these books... I mean at first I wasn’t really into it but I persevered and it paid off cause I mean WOW.
Cross overs, twists and turns... it had it all
And travis. Ugh. Why is it always the crazies that get us? Don’t get me wrong, Declan.. cute. Sawyer.. yeah okay would pick him buuuuut there’s something about travis!!
Would absolutely LOVE to get into the nitty gritty of his story and see more of his family members stories too
I would totally recommend this series and I’m absolutely looking forward to where this will go in year two 🤞🏻.
I LOVED these books... I mean at first I wasn’t really into it but I persevered and it paid off cause I mean WOW.
Cross overs, twists and turns... it had it all
And travis. Ugh. Why is it always the crazies that get us? Don’t get me wrong, Declan.. cute. Sawyer.. yeah okay would pick him buuuuut there’s something about travis!!
Would absolutely LOVE to get into the nitty gritty of his story and see more of his family members stories too
I would totally recommend this series and I’m absolutely looking forward to where this will go in year two 🤞🏻.
March 24, 2021
Read this for the novella Summer only
I only downloaded this collection to read the novella Summer since I'd already read the other books in the series. It was great! I love the entire series! I love all the books that have been written regarding the Scott family in general.
I'm looking forward to reading anything else that comes from Candace. I have such a nerdy book crush on her.
If you've read the Hillcrest University series, you should read the Novella summer as it sets things up for Ash's second year at uni. So excited about that! I'm hoping Candace continues writing about Ash and her guys! Wonder if she'll ever write about Markus? *swoons*
I only downloaded this collection to read the novella Summer since I'd already read the other books in the series. It was great! I love the entire series! I love all the books that have been written regarding the Scott family in general.
I'm looking forward to reading anything else that comes from Candace. I have such a nerdy book crush on her.
If you've read the Hillcrest University series, you should read the Novella summer as it sets things up for Ash's second year at uni. So excited about that! I'm hoping Candace continues writing about Ash and her guys! Wonder if she'll ever write about Markus? *swoons*
November 4, 2022
love hate
Okay, so, I had a love hate relationship with this book. Mostly love, but a few things made it difficult to read. I felt a lot of things were repeated almost to the point of annoying. Ash constantly comparing Ray and Travis, and ash and her need to constantly degrade people for having money just because she was poor. I also feel like ash came across as immature in some parts. Almost too big for her britches. Needless to say I guess I didn’t exactly love ash. She thought awfully high of herself when in reality a lot of the messes in this book were her fault.
Other than that I loved the book. I couldn’t put it down and I can’t wait for year two to be released!!!
Okay, so, I had a love hate relationship with this book. Mostly love, but a few things made it difficult to read. I felt a lot of things were repeated almost to the point of annoying. Ash constantly comparing Ray and Travis, and ash and her need to constantly degrade people for having money just because she was poor. I also feel like ash came across as immature in some parts. Almost too big for her britches. Needless to say I guess I didn’t exactly love ash. She thought awfully high of herself when in reality a lot of the messes in this book were her fault.
Other than that I loved the book. I couldn’t put it down and I can’t wait for year two to be released!!!
September 2, 2020
This is one of my top favorite RH I’ve ever read, it’s just simply amazing. After stumbling upon Cruel Black Hearts (which I highly recommend you read prior!) and falling in love, I started reading this. Holy shitballs, Batman. I had no idea what I was getting into I just knew I needed more. When there was cameos from characters from CBH, I knew I was done for. The story line is amazing. The characters are amazing. I prefer going in blind so I’m not even going to give a summary. Just do yourself a favor and read this series!
November 12, 2020
First things first; I really like the cover of this book!
Hillcrest University year one is a boxset of the hillcrest series with an added bonus story. I have the rest of the books individually but I bought this book for the bonus story.
I found the writing style easy to follow, the characters likeable and the storyline gripping. The stories in this book are action packed, gripping and angsty.
I liked the bonus story. I liked catching up with Ash, Sawyer, Travis and Declan. I also liked the snippet of more to come. I cannot wait for faceless.
Hillcrest University year one is a boxset of the hillcrest series with an added bonus story. I have the rest of the books individually but I bought this book for the bonus story.
I found the writing style easy to follow, the characters likeable and the storyline gripping. The stories in this book are action packed, gripping and angsty.
I liked the bonus story. I liked catching up with Ash, Sawyer, Travis and Declan. I also liked the snippet of more to come. I cannot wait for faceless.
April 9, 2021
Wow, honestly wow!
This book was amazing!!
It’s so well written with tonnes of detail, you get sucked right into the storyline. The twists and suspense were fantastic and had me sitting on the edge of my chair so many times.
It’s got really well thought out storyline and main characters. I love how you learn more about their back story in little snippets are the books go on.
This is one of those unicorn stories, they are rare to find and you never want them to end.
Overall a fantastic book and I’ll definitely read more from this author in the future.
This book was amazing!!
It’s so well written with tonnes of detail, you get sucked right into the storyline. The twists and suspense were fantastic and had me sitting on the edge of my chair so many times.
It’s got really well thought out storyline and main characters. I love how you learn more about their back story in little snippets are the books go on.
This is one of those unicorn stories, they are rare to find and you never want them to end.
Overall a fantastic book and I’ll definitely read more from this author in the future.
December 4, 2021
Really enjoyed reading Hillcrest University Year One. It wasn't your typical college bully romance. There was so many surprise twist and turns, you just couldn't put the book down. The serial killer ex boyfriend, was wow! Didn't see that coming. I can't wait to see what happens to the gang in year 2. I'm drawn go the Dark Side of Travis and his Family. I liked all the characters and how relatable they are. Will be interesting on how things go for Will. And also who is this person wanting to bring more horrible drama to Ash and her guys......
April 23, 2023
Amazing and really confused
Loved all the books the storyline I read year one and it had all the books and novellas in one I loved the characters and the storyline was fab one question though is their more coming out cause its ended with the faceless persons pov and it sound like it's not finished and something else is starting for some reason nothing else xomes up on amazon as the next read so I'm assuming their isn't one so I'm confused please let me know I wanna keep reading
Loved all the books the storyline I read year one and it had all the books and novellas in one I loved the characters and the storyline was fab one question though is their more coming out cause its ended with the faceless persons pov and it sound like it's not finished and something else is starting for some reason nothing else xomes up on amazon as the next read so I'm assuming their isn't one so I'm confused please let me know I wanna keep reading
May 17, 2023
I LOOOOOVVVEED this series!!! I need more!!!!!
How could you leave us with that last chapters??? That's just cruel!!!
Throughout the whole story I kept on asking... Who / What is her farther? Will he feature? Guess we will find out.
Then there is Faceless... I mean really??? Who is it??? What now??? Urgh!!! I need answers!!!
PLEASE let us out of our misery's and give us more!!!!
I like the smexy (let's face it... It is pretty much expected with so many boyfriends), but what I love even more is the story.
How could you leave us with that last chapters??? That's just cruel!!!
Throughout the whole story I kept on asking... Who / What is her farther? Will he feature? Guess we will find out.
Then there is Faceless... I mean really??? Who is it??? What now??? Urgh!!! I need answers!!!
PLEASE let us out of our misery's and give us more!!!!
I like the smexy (let's face it... It is pretty much expected with so many boyfriends), but what I love even more is the story.
October 21, 2020
Wow
Was not what I expected. I have yet to read a RH novel quite like this one. It was riveting. I honestly had to force myself to put this down to sleep. Travis is by far my favorite in this story. Sawyer is a close second. Ash is one lucky lady. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. The details about their mental health, the characters POV's, were all incredible fascinating. I can't wait to read more of their story.
Was not what I expected. I have yet to read a RH novel quite like this one. It was riveting. I honestly had to force myself to put this down to sleep. Travis is by far my favorite in this story. Sawyer is a close second. Ash is one lucky lady. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. The details about their mental health, the characters POV's, were all incredible fascinating. I can't wait to read more of their story.
January 29, 2021
Bloody. Brilliant. And oh so steamy.
These characters never get old. They have depth and such vibrant personalities. I loved getting to know them and experiencing this journey along side them. The emotions are authentic and I connected to them easily. What a twisty fun ride it was. I really enjoyed the novella at the end. So good to see a little more of them. It’s bloody and brilliant and keeps me panting for more.
These characters never get old. They have depth and such vibrant personalities. I loved getting to know them and experiencing this journey along side them. The emotions are authentic and I connected to them easily. What a twisty fun ride it was. I really enjoyed the novella at the end. So good to see a little more of them. It’s bloody and brilliant and keeps me panting for more.
April 16, 2021
Addicting story!
This was an addicting series and I wish there was another book/novella in the series to read next especially after finishing Summer. It has a bunch of psycho men and one tough FMC. I liked the mystery of slowly learning what happened to Sabrina. And yes there were sexy times with her hot men. There were a bunch of surprises that I did not see coming. 5 star read for me.
This was an addicting series and I wish there was another book/novella in the series to read next especially after finishing Summer. It has a bunch of psycho men and one tough FMC. I liked the mystery of slowly learning what happened to Sabrina. And yes there were sexy times with her hot men. There were a bunch of surprises that I did not see coming. 5 star read for me.
May 27, 2021
Great dark RH romance
Definitely a dark romance, if you aren’t ok with violence and questionable morals I’d skip it. I love that kinda romance though so I loved this series, can’t wait to see what happens next! Super steamy sex scenes, lots of angst for the main characters, lots of unexpected twists. Great series for my first read with this author. Definitely adding her to my list of go to authors. A few typos but not very many and nothing too distracting.
Definitely a dark romance, if you aren’t ok with violence and questionable morals I’d skip it. I love that kinda romance though so I loved this series, can’t wait to see what happens next! Super steamy sex scenes, lots of angst for the main characters, lots of unexpected twists. Great series for my first read with this author. Definitely adding her to my list of go to authors. A few typos but not very many and nothing too distracting.
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