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Elites of Redwood Academy #1
Cruel Boys
They’ll force me to play their game.
And make me pay the price for my defiance.
I thought I knew how to handle arrogant cruel bully boys.
But that was before I met them:
Dom, Chase, and Silas.
They were like Greek gods come to life:
Beautiful, irresistible, and vindictively cruel.
Together, they rule the halls of Redwood Academy with impunity.
They had the money, the fame, and most importantly: the power.
The power to do whatever they want to whoever they want.
And I’m their new target.
I thought I left all that BS back at Montlake.
But they’re about to teach me that the West Coast play by different rules.
They’re about to teach me that I’m out of my element.
That I have to play their game.
That I have to obey their rules.
But most importantly:
They’ll make me pay the price for my defiance.
Cruel Boys is a dark high school enemies to lovers RH with bully themes. This is the first book of five in the Elites of Redwood Academy series. Contains cursing, sexual situations, and scenes that some may find triggering.
And make me pay the price for my defiance.
I thought I knew how to handle arrogant cruel bully boys.
But that was before I met them:
Dom, Chase, and Silas.
They were like Greek gods come to life:
Beautiful, irresistible, and vindictively cruel.
Together, they rule the halls of Redwood Academy with impunity.
They had the money, the fame, and most importantly: the power.
The power to do whatever they want to whoever they want.
And I’m their new target.
I thought I left all that BS back at Montlake.
But they’re about to teach me that the West Coast play by different rules.
They’re about to teach me that I’m out of my element.
That I have to play their game.
That I have to obey their rules.
But most importantly:
They’ll make me pay the price for my defiance.
Cruel Boys is a dark high school enemies to lovers RH with bully themes. This is the first book of five in the Elites of Redwood Academy series. Contains cursing, sexual situations, and scenes that some may find triggering.
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2020
924 people are currently reading
463 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
February 17, 2021
3.5 stars. Took me a while to get into the story, maybe because it is a spin-off from another series. Also, the chemistry between the main characters wasn't believable in the beginning. Things improved a lot in the second half. I'm ready for more.
January 2, 2021
DNF at 47%. Tried to get into this one but just couldn’t. There was hardly any interaction with any of the guys and I was at 47%...I thought it was a RH? I don’t even really see any bullying, just guys being guys but like I said not many scenes with the guys even in them so I have no idea how the dynamic was supposed to play out. She only ever talked about Dom. Aside from that I just couldn’t connect with the main FC. She came off as a bit childish and annoying. She was always rude when interacting with any of the guys, and was always biting back with a rude name or comment before they even did or said anything wrong. Like Dom walked up to her and her immediate response was ‘’what do you want jerk-off?’’ She did things like that a lot right off the bat and it was annoying. Since like I mentioned, there was no bullying to warrant her attitude (IMO). She honestly came off as a major B who’s just a spoiled daddy’s girl with too much money.
Also for how the story is centered around her drug addiction and how she had to go to rehab and miss a year of school...she lights up a blunt and happily smokes it like it doesn’t count...umm...ok. So weed is apparently fine for a struggling addict..🤔
And the scene in the woods with Dom just didn’t make any sense. Not sure how she thought he was trying to rape her, I didn’t get that at all from what I read but she just freaked out and went way overboard in my opinion. Also, the story is supposed to be set in high school but the descriptions and scenes make me feel like it’s a college, which is really strange. I had to keep reminding myself it was supposed to be a high school setting. It just never felt that way.
There’s just too much inconsistency with this book for me... the writing feels like it’s all over the place.😔
Also for how the story is centered around her drug addiction and how she had to go to rehab and miss a year of school...she lights up a blunt and happily smokes it like it doesn’t count...umm...ok. So weed is apparently fine for a struggling addict..🤔
And the scene in the woods with Dom just didn’t make any sense. Not sure how she thought he was trying to rape her, I didn’t get that at all from what I read but she just freaked out and went way overboard in my opinion. Also, the story is supposed to be set in high school but the descriptions and scenes make me feel like it’s a college, which is really strange. I had to keep reminding myself it was supposed to be a high school setting. It just never felt that way.
There’s just too much inconsistency with this book for me... the writing feels like it’s all over the place.😔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2021
Might just be me.....
Another bully type book that I feel let down by. It could be me, I don't know! But this just didn't make me want to keep turning the page.
The storyline felt a little lacking. Again, I could be off base. It could be a very slow burning series and this is the slow wind up. But I've read slow burns before and they still need to keep your attention!
I wasn't totally clear on why Dom, one of the MMC treated the FMC, Vicki so badly. He mentioned being jealous of the relationship of her and her dad. That doesn't really explain the atrocious behaviour towards her. And then thees Silas and Chase. No idea why they hate her but they treat her like she's absolute shit.
Not much romance. A few kisses here and there but even those I felt no connection between them.
I've no inclination to pick up the next one. It did end on what I guess you'd call a cliff hanger but was more of an "oh. OK".
Real huge apologies to the author. I hated that I didn't like it I know you spent time on it!! X
Another bully type book that I feel let down by. It could be me, I don't know! But this just didn't make me want to keep turning the page.
The storyline felt a little lacking. Again, I could be off base. It could be a very slow burning series and this is the slow wind up. But I've read slow burns before and they still need to keep your attention!
I wasn't totally clear on why Dom, one of the MMC treated the FMC, Vicki so badly. He mentioned being jealous of the relationship of her and her dad. That doesn't really explain the atrocious behaviour towards her. And then thees Silas and Chase. No idea why they hate her but they treat her like she's absolute shit.
Not much romance. A few kisses here and there but even those I felt no connection between them.
I've no inclination to pick up the next one. It did end on what I guess you'd call a cliff hanger but was more of an "oh. OK".
Real huge apologies to the author. I hated that I didn't like it I know you spent time on it!! X
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2020
Its not what you know its who you know. Thats the mantra at Redwood Academy. A place for making connections in tv, movies.....etc but theres a dark undercurrent there that uses the students hunger to be who they want to be. By any means necessary. A home truth Vicki (FMC) finds out when she enrols there. Some of which goes from tame banter to vicious bullying. At the heart of it being an elite clique - Dominic, Silas and Chase. Who seem to be orchestrating everything that happens at the academy. I loved Vicki's character. Shes quick witted and strong willed. Her friends Luna and Theo are great back ups too. My jaw dropped with that ending and i cant wait to see what happens in the next book. This one was so good!
October 6, 2020
First time reading this author’s books. Given the premise of the story, the blurb, as well as the main characters’ initial meeting, my attention was captured, and I expected a storyline that was more intriguing and much darker than I encountered as the story progressed. I loved the heroine’s father, their warm relationship, her flawed past on display, as well as the personalities of the characters. The main characters especially the supporting characters — the heroine’s friends as well as the hero’s rival — were compelling, but the pace of the story and the progression of the romance were slow to arrive. Not much really happened — no bullying, no power exchange — save their starting school, the heroine deciding to run for school president, and some mild antipathy. There was also virtually no steam to this storyline. Sadly, I found myself skimming and this is only book 1 of 5. Some good qualities but unfortunately not the book for me.
October 4, 2020
Such a great start for the spin off series. Took me a while to realize who it was. I was so into, I didn’t even think about it. But, it just kept being so familiar. I know, I’m a little slow, but I still appreciated the start to this. These guys are seriously jerks though, so, I’m interested to see how a couple of them make a turn around. Vicky is awesome and I love her new sidekicks. Can’t wait for book 2!
March 3, 2023
this is 3rd series i've read by nora cobb & i can now say that she writes the WORST FEMALE MAIN CHARACTERS EVER. They're sooo self-centered, antagonist, HORRIBLE TO FRIENDS, unempathetic, unsexy, so pathetic & I HAVE A HUGE HUMILIATION/MANIPULATION KINK BUT I HAVE YET TO FIND A FMC that's she's written that i don't hate & they never get any more worthy of anything but not being written about. SOOOOO vile & SOOOO MANY BETTER DARK BULLY DUBCON SERIES. NORA COBB ALMOST MAKES MY FAVE GENRE GROSS TO ME W/ THE GROSS MENTATLITY OF HER HEROINES. Thank God for the Ashley Gee's, the Laura Thalassa's, the L.V Chase's, the Caroline Peckham's, Shantel Tessier's of the literary world. the 1st series of Nora Cobb's i read, the main chic walked in on a girl getting raped, knew the girl didn't want to be there & walked away to look for the main guys in the RH cuz she was mad at em over lack of attention. doesn't tell anyone aout it & then in the next book in the series (not this series so no spoiler) the main girl gets touched by the rapist of other girl & whole book is about her trauma & NOT ONE MENTION OF FEELING BAD ABOUT LEAVING OTHER GIRL, NO MOMENT OF CLARITY/EPIPHANY/GROWTH . They all end up w/ me wanted the main girl GONE, in my mind just chanting 'shut up' every word that's written for her
October 17, 2020
Not sure what to feel
The MC could of been better i guess she seems childish for someone thats been through a lot... why do something when u know the outcome but then wonder why people are treating you bad? Didn't make sense. She doesn't want to seem weak but she comes off as clueless even when she's told explicitly what the outcome will be so I veiw it as a weakness. Shes suppose to be a recovering addict but smokes a joint and its glossed over not addressed but her smoking a cigarette is a issue... I'm not sure about this series but I'm willing to check the next book out and I've read other Nora Cobb books this one just isn't taking me in. Hopefully the MC get better in the next book.... over all its not awful just getting past the MC and her ways, trying to be open minded I don't know but I will check out the next book hoping I'm wrong and she turns out to be awesome
The MC could of been better i guess she seems childish for someone thats been through a lot... why do something when u know the outcome but then wonder why people are treating you bad? Didn't make sense. She doesn't want to seem weak but she comes off as clueless even when she's told explicitly what the outcome will be so I veiw it as a weakness. Shes suppose to be a recovering addict but smokes a joint and its glossed over not addressed but her smoking a cigarette is a issue... I'm not sure about this series but I'm willing to check the next book out and I've read other Nora Cobb books this one just isn't taking me in. Hopefully the MC get better in the next book.... over all its not awful just getting past the MC and her ways, trying to be open minded I don't know but I will check out the next book hoping I'm wrong and she turns out to be awesome
October 1, 2020
omg
CONTAINS SPOILERS!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ok first off I have loved everything I have read from Nora Cobb and each book gets better and better. Ok now onto the book. This book has it all and if your not afraid of a few cringe worthy moments. (Not much turns my stomach.) This book is a must read.
Oh my I seriously wanted to reach in the book and strangle Silas. I seriously hope he redeems himself because omg.
Dom he confused me one minute he wants her and the next he wants her gone (SPOILER the woods scene was chilling. He didn't give a crap that his antics was concidered assult).
And Chase. What to say about him. I truly believe he is afraid for her.
Silas has a few screws loose (again spoiler the exploding cigarette). I SERIOUSLY recommend this book to read.
CONTAINS SPOILERS!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ok first off I have loved everything I have read from Nora Cobb and each book gets better and better. Ok now onto the book. This book has it all and if your not afraid of a few cringe worthy moments. (Not much turns my stomach.) This book is a must read.
Oh my I seriously wanted to reach in the book and strangle Silas. I seriously hope he redeems himself because omg.
Dom he confused me one minute he wants her and the next he wants her gone (SPOILER the woods scene was chilling. He didn't give a crap that his antics was concidered assult).
And Chase. What to say about him. I truly believe he is afraid for her.
Silas has a few screws loose (again spoiler the exploding cigarette). I SERIOUSLY recommend this book to read.
October 9, 2020
I have been a huge fan of Nora's books but wow!! Cruel Boys I think have just became my new favorite. Which is weird to say because I adore her previous series. How does an author just keep getting better and better?
So if your looking for a book that has it all, bad a@@ characters, dark, twisted and just down right good. This book is for you. The pace was fast, I was just so caught up in the story, it was over before I knew it. I just had to keep reading to find out what happened next. The female lead I was rooting for from the beginning. The guys are running hot and cold. The plot engaging, and the story line addicting.
Overall, this is going to be one amazing series and one I highly would recommend.
So if your looking for a book that has it all, bad a@@ characters, dark, twisted and just down right good. This book is for you. The pace was fast, I was just so caught up in the story, it was over before I knew it. I just had to keep reading to find out what happened next. The female lead I was rooting for from the beginning. The guys are running hot and cold. The plot engaging, and the story line addicting.
Overall, this is going to be one amazing series and one I highly would recommend.
October 1, 2020
And Nora does it again! She pulled me in with her Montlake Prep series and it just keeps getting better with Vicki's story. You can't help but love Vicki's determination, to come back from where she was last year, to do better for herself and her dad. Then you have the guys. Oh how I love to hate these guys, especially Silas. It was a struggle not to throw my kindle across the room over these guys. From finding some true friends to dealing with her bullies, Vicki's life at Redwood is definitely going to be an adventure, now the question is how bad is it going to get before it gets better? Thanks for an awesome read Nora! Cannot wait for book 2.
September 30, 2020
So let me start by saying I was done with Bully books. The stories were all starting to blur for me. This book was freaking good though! I devoured it in one day. I wish it was a bit longer but think it ended at a perfect spot for a great segway into book 2.
Vicki is amazing and I am so glad she is getting her own series! Silas is a dick and I have a feeling I will never like him. Chase, I am on the fence with. Dom, well he is amazing. He is a jerk and a prince at the same time.
I was sad there isn’t as much steam in this book. I don’t need smutty but a little steam is always a plus for me. I am also hoping a little more back story comes out regarding all of the guys.
Troy’s appearance made my day! I love that jerk!!I’m excited to see what is in store for Vicki!
Vicki is amazing and I am so glad she is getting her own series! Silas is a dick and I have a feeling I will never like him. Chase, I am on the fence with. Dom, well he is amazing. He is a jerk and a prince at the same time.
I was sad there isn’t as much steam in this book. I don’t need smutty but a little steam is always a plus for me. I am also hoping a little more back story comes out regarding all of the guys.
Troy’s appearance made my day! I love that jerk!!I’m excited to see what is in store for Vicki!
September 23, 2020
I’m super excited to see where Vicki’s journey takes us. I feel like we’ve just barely dipped our toe in the water and set the stage and gotten to know the players. The guys all have very different personalities. Troy and Natalie popping up for a cameo was GOLD. Troy working his magic and digging up dirt was PLATINUM, and he unearthed a minefield. It is nice seeing Troy more and more in his new role. I can’t wait to see what’s next at Redwood...
October 1, 2020
Having read the montlake prep series, I was familiar with Vicki and some other characters that make cameos. I knew Nora wouldn't disappoint in this spin off series. It's a bully Rh romance and I was hooked from page one. There's lots to love about this book, especially the characters and how detailed the plot is. It ended in a big cliffhanger which gives me so much anticipation for the next book! Bring on book two!
September 30, 2020
Satisfying read
Cruel boys is a high school age bully romance between Victoria “Vickie” and three boys. It is great to get Vickie’s story, as we have a little background on her in the montlake prep series. This is a cliffhanger. The book has a good flow which makes it an easy and enjoyable read.
Cruel boys is a high school age bully romance between Victoria “Vickie” and three boys. It is great to get Vickie’s story, as we have a little background on her in the montlake prep series. This is a cliffhanger. The book has a good flow which makes it an easy and enjoyable read.
October 31, 2020
Cruel boys
Victoria has moved with her father to start in a new school. She wants to learn do behind the scenes movies. She has the misfortune of meeting Dom when they first get to town she thought they got along fine. That is until she starts school and he is there with two other boys intent to make her life hell
Victoria has moved with her father to start in a new school. She wants to learn do behind the scenes movies. She has the misfortune of meeting Dom when they first get to town she thought they got along fine. That is until she starts school and he is there with two other boys intent to make her life hell
November 9, 2020
Potential!
It was hard for me to get into the book at the beginning, due to how it’s written. Makes me wonder if they had beta readers or anyone to read it for mistakes. It’s a bit too much of a slow burn for me. However, I’m giving the next book a try just to see if it picks up any.
It was hard for me to get into the book at the beginning, due to how it’s written. Makes me wonder if they had beta readers or anyone to read it for mistakes. It’s a bit too much of a slow burn for me. However, I’m giving the next book a try just to see if it picks up any.
January 20, 2021
I didn't get far in this at all. About a quarter through before I knew it wasn't worth finishing. The main character is a bitchy brat, so if she gets teased she kinda seems to deserve it. Too many conclusions are jumped to and her former addiction wasn't handled well. The school itself also is too far from reality of a high school. I just couldn't.
March 8, 2021
I don't know what it is, but something about Dom put me off right at the beginning. And then for him to turn that fast when he finds her at the school? I am not exactly sure why she is so afraid of her past. A lot of people go through that, but it is nice to see her father support her for everything!
September 30, 2020
Great new Series
Nora delivers again! Oh to be an elite. Happy ARC reader who can’t wait for book 2. No one likes falling off cliffs, but the tide with these characters is worth it
Nora delivers again! Oh to be an elite. Happy ARC reader who can’t wait for book 2. No one likes falling off cliffs, but the tide with these characters is worth it
September 30, 2020
In this series we have Vicki who refuses to back down to anyone, but the three guys in this story may just be the ones who can break her. We get some cameo's of other characters from the Montlake Prep series. If you like bully romance you'll love this.
October 10, 2020
This book was ok. Loved seeing Troy and Natalie make an appearance. The whole book is high on the bullying with very little shift to warmth or emotion. It just feels like a continuous up hill battle with no relief. Let’s hope there’s some shift in book 2.
January 6, 2021
Undecided
Not really sure what to think about this one, I mean I kept reading it so that's something and was interested what was going to happen but not a lot did. Lots of planning and chatting but not sure where its all going. Might read next book.
Not really sure what to think about this one, I mean I kept reading it so that's something and was interested what was going to happen but not a lot did. Lots of planning and chatting but not sure where its all going. Might read next book.
February 20, 2021
So far it's okay, but I'm not sure if it's worth the time investment of five separate books, each with cliffhanger endings. I suspect this may be one of those cases where an author writes one longer story and chops it into novellas in an attempt to make more money.
June 26, 2021
Cruel
This is a weird story as it is a bully romance but it hasn't gone into the usual which is refreshing but there is spot going crazy in my mind because it seems slow moving. Will continue the story I know Nora Cobb books all work in the end
This is a weird story as it is a bully romance but it hasn't gone into the usual which is refreshing but there is spot going crazy in my mind because it seems slow moving. Will continue the story I know Nora Cobb books all work in the end
September 29, 2020
Nora you did it again...another book that I couldn't put down. When's the next one out??
October 1, 2020
This is my first time reading anuthing form this author, and I really enjoyed this book, and can't wait to read more.
October 1, 2020
Really good start to this series. Can’t wait to see where the author brings us.
February 7, 2021
Best of the series.
February 23, 2021
This book moves way to slow for my taste. Not much bullying either which is why I picked it up. Not sure if I'll continue reading to see if it actually gets better or not.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews