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Westover Prep #1
One-Eighty
He loves what he can't remember —she can't forget the truth...
PIPER
Arrogant, controlling, and an absolute jerk.
He's everything I loathe, and everything I want to forget.
But he doesn't remember a bit of it.
One accident, one misstep, changed everything.
Changed him.
Now, he's different and unbelievably sexy.
But I refuse to fall for a bully.
DALTON
Sexy, smart, feisty, and perfect.
She's everything I want, and nothing that I remember.
What she says I am, I refuse to believe.
For her, I will be anything.
I will do anything.
Even destroy the bully from before.
PIPER
Arrogant, controlling, and an absolute jerk.
He's everything I loathe, and everything I want to forget.
But he doesn't remember a bit of it.
One accident, one misstep, changed everything.
Changed him.
Now, he's different and unbelievably sexy.
But I refuse to fall for a bully.
DALTON
Sexy, smart, feisty, and perfect.
She's everything I want, and nothing that I remember.
What she says I am, I refuse to believe.
For her, I will be anything.
I will do anything.
Even destroy the bully from before.
Unknown Binding
First published December 4, 2019
645 people are currently reading
2594 people want to read
About the author
Marie James
103 books2,919 followersMarie James is a mother of two boys and wife of 17 years. She's spent most of her life lifetime living in central Texas, with only short stays in South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. Her passions include reading everything under the sun and sewing, although she doesn't get to sew much these days!.
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 446 reviews
June 2, 2020
One-Eighty is an apt title!
I love these bully romance books. This is another one that strays a bit from the standard format of the wealthy king of the Prep school bullying the new poor girl that came in on scholarship or something similar. In this story both the bully and bullied (Hero and heroine) are fairly wealthy and are next door neighbors. They have known each other since they were small.
The Hero’s name is Dalton Payne and he thought Piper Schofield was the prettiest girl in kindergarten until she decided to play with another boy instead of him and from that day forward he set out to make her pay for choosing someone else over him. Dalton’s name calling and pranks on Piper got worse as the years went on. As Dalton became more handsome and popular he got his friends and most of the school to join in on the bullying.
Piper was tormented for twelve years and she had only her senior year left before she could get out of town and attend college. However, everything changes the summer before her senior year when both Piper and Dalton are in a car accident. Dalton has a head injury and loses all his memories of the past twelve years. He finds himself attracted to Piper and remembers nothing of the awful human being he used to be.
Piper’s and Dalton’s families are close since they are neighbors and Piper never told her parents how bad it had gotten at school with Dalton and his friends because the one time she did in grade school her parents just brushed it off as “boys will be boys”. So Piper is hired by Dalton’s parents to tutor his 13 year old sister Peyton over the summer. She ends up spending a great deal of time at their house while Dalton tries to wear her down and get her to see that he has changed. But Dalton has a hard road ahead of him. Piper was tormented badly over a very long period of time and doesn’t think she can forgive him.
This book goes deep into mental issues that can result from bullying, such as thoughts of suicide and self harm so beware if those are triggers. I like that they are shown, though I suspect they are not so easy to overcome. There are some pretty steamy scenes but not until near the end of the book. I really enjoyed this book and will read more from this author.
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I love these bully romance books. This is another one that strays a bit from the standard format of the wealthy king of the Prep school bullying the new poor girl that came in on scholarship or something similar. In this story both the bully and bullied (Hero and heroine) are fairly wealthy and are next door neighbors. They have known each other since they were small.
The Hero’s name is Dalton Payne and he thought Piper Schofield was the prettiest girl in kindergarten until she decided to play with another boy instead of him and from that day forward he set out to make her pay for choosing someone else over him. Dalton’s name calling and pranks on Piper got worse as the years went on. As Dalton became more handsome and popular he got his friends and most of the school to join in on the bullying.
Piper was tormented for twelve years and she had only her senior year left before she could get out of town and attend college. However, everything changes the summer before her senior year when both Piper and Dalton are in a car accident. Dalton has a head injury and loses all his memories of the past twelve years. He finds himself attracted to Piper and remembers nothing of the awful human being he used to be.
Piper’s and Dalton’s families are close since they are neighbors and Piper never told her parents how bad it had gotten at school with Dalton and his friends because the one time she did in grade school her parents just brushed it off as “boys will be boys”. So Piper is hired by Dalton’s parents to tutor his 13 year old sister Peyton over the summer. She ends up spending a great deal of time at their house while Dalton tries to wear her down and get her to see that he has changed. But Dalton has a hard road ahead of him. Piper was tormented badly over a very long period of time and doesn’t think she can forgive him.
This book goes deep into mental issues that can result from bullying, such as thoughts of suicide and self harm so beware if those are triggers. I like that they are shown, though I suspect they are not so easy to overcome. There are some pretty steamy scenes but not until near the end of the book. I really enjoyed this book and will read more from this author.
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February 14, 2020
4.25 stars
i judged the book cover again!! i know i know. guilty as charged. im sorry.
but i mean come on, if you look at it, you would think that this book was gonna be your typical bully romance based in a private school but NOPE.
there was no “bullying” here and the MCs weren’t even in school since this takes place during the summer.
and honestly? i loved it. i mean, i read this in one sitting instead of writing my 12-page paper so you know... priorities and all that right? 😅
this had good writing and the plot? yeah, it was intriguing as hell.
why? well...
in the beginning of the story, both Piper (h) and Dalton (H) got into a car accident after attending a party where Piper was set up to walk in on guy she had a “thing” with but this dude was only pretending to like her and she walked in on him having a threesome with none other than the H’s “girlfriend” and “best friend”. Dalton also saw this whole mess. after the accident, Dalton lost most of his memories and doesn’t remember bullying Piper. he falls in love with her, chases her, fights for her and was practically atoning for everything he did until the very end.
you see why i was intrigued?
what i liked:
what i disliked:
____________________________________
i really think that this whole concept of H losing his memories of bullying the h is so interesting and that's what drew me in. even though this has HEA and H did atone for his bullying, i for one would never forgive this asshole, especially if he didn't lose his memory.
though, i hope that these two will have a second book in the future because i wanna read more of them.
and for the trigger warnings: there's a lot of mention of H's past bullying and some of them will really get you heated. h also did self-harm because of the bullying from H.
i judged the book cover again!! i know i know. guilty as charged. im sorry.
but i mean come on, if you look at it, you would think that this book was gonna be your typical bully romance based in a private school but NOPE.
there was no “bullying” here and the MCs weren’t even in school since this takes place during the summer.
and honestly? i loved it. i mean, i read this in one sitting instead of writing my 12-page paper so you know... priorities and all that right? 😅
this had good writing and the plot? yeah, it was intriguing as hell.
why? well...
in the beginning of the story, both Piper (h) and Dalton (H) got into a car accident after attending a party where Piper was set up to walk in on guy she had a “thing” with but this dude was only pretending to like her and she walked in on him having a threesome with none other than the H’s “girlfriend” and “best friend”. Dalton also saw this whole mess. after the accident, Dalton lost most of his memories and doesn’t remember bullying Piper. he falls in love with her, chases her, fights for her and was practically atoning for everything he did until the very end.
you see why i was intrigued?
what i liked:
↠ Piper not forgiving too easily and made Dalton work for it.
i always applaud this type of h in any type of books. what Dalton did to her for 12 FREAKING YEARS were filled with horrible things that i don’t think i can forgive him. ever. she even go to the point where she (TW!!) harmed herself because of the bullying. it was so horrible. and the bullying went on since they were in kindergarten by the way.
↠ Dalton fighting for Piper.
you know what im a sucker for in romance? when the H chases the h and SHOWS how much he loves the h. he was literally swoon-worthy and slightly stalker-ish in an endearing way (not in a Joe Goldberg type of stalker) and i was all for it. i was glad to see he fought for Piper and he seemed remorseful enough.
↠ my one true queen: Peyton.
Peyton is Dalton’s 13-year-old sister and this bishh is the highlight of this book. she was protective of Piper, called Dalton out for his past bullying. she was literally Petyon's cupid, fairy godmother, protector and she was just so cute.
what i disliked:
↠ i really love the characters and this is just me being spoiled but i just wanted more?? i wish Dalton got his memories back. i mean, can y’all imagine the angst from that? i just really wanted to know WHY he bullied her for years and did he actually “like” her?
↠ and the reason for his bullying is pretty stupid. he started bullying her just because she chose to hang out with someone else rather than with him. in KINDERGARTEN. bitch... but yeah, this is the reason why i need more from these characters.
____________________________________
i really think that this whole concept of H losing his memories of bullying the h is so interesting and that's what drew me in. even though this has HEA and H did atone for his bullying, i for one would never forgive this asshole, especially if he didn't lose his memory.
though, i hope that these two will have a second book in the future because i wanna read more of them.
and for the trigger warnings: there's a lot of mention of H's past bullying and some of them will really get you heated. h also did self-harm because of the bullying from H.
February 15, 2020
5 Stars for Dalton & Piper!
Piper Schofield has been tormented and bullied for TWELVE years by Dalton Payne and his cronies. For twelve years she has taken the abuse and has the emotional and physical scars to show for it. Here’s where the author will throw the heroine and the reader for a loop with a horrific accident that get this… leaves the anti-hero without his memories!
Would you buy this nice guy act or his interest in you?
In the end I was sold on every aspect of this story. The hero’s groveling, the fantastic connection between the couple, the secondary characters, and last but not least, the terrific writing that captivated me from cover to cover!
“Fuck,” he mumbles when he breathes me in for a second time. “Please tell me you’re mine.”
Piper Schofield has been tormented and bullied for TWELVE years by Dalton Payne and his cronies. For twelve years she has taken the abuse and has the emotional and physical scars to show for it. Here’s where the author will throw the heroine and the reader for a loop with a horrific accident that get this… leaves the anti-hero without his memories!
Would you buy this nice guy act or his interest in you?
In the end I was sold on every aspect of this story. The hero’s groveling, the fantastic connection between the couple, the secondary characters, and last but not least, the terrific writing that captivated me from cover to cover!
“Fuck,” he mumbles when he breathes me in for a second time. “Please tell me you’re mine.”
dnf
February 17, 2020DNF technically around 60ish%
Man oh man! What a book funk I am in!! I was certain this would help me out of it because it sounded different and so many of my friends loved it. Sadly, I lost interest about 60ish percent and then just skimmed the rest. I did skim to the end so I didn't technically read it that far -- and that's why I'm just going to add this to my DNF shelf instead of giving it a poor rating.
Things that worked:
- the overal premise was promising!
- the side characters were pretty good (and bad)
- I did like the h for the most part
Things that didn't work:
- believability. I get that brain injuries are complex, but it all was a little too convenient at times. For example: the fact that the H was supposed to not remember anything past age 5...but he knew what porn and fetishes are, had no problem thinking about his arousal, didn't act juvenile, and had the vocabulary of a sailor. I don't know any 5 year old like that!! I found it eye roll inducing after a while.
- the mushy instalove the H felt for the h right away to make it his "one eighty" 🙄🙄🙄 I just didn't really like the "perfect" guy he became.
Again, this very well could be my book funk influencing my experience with this book...but it just didn't work for me 🤷🏻♀️
Man oh man! What a book funk I am in!! I was certain this would help me out of it because it sounded different and so many of my friends loved it. Sadly, I lost interest about 60ish percent and then just skimmed the rest. I did skim to the end so I didn't technically read it that far -- and that's why I'm just going to add this to my DNF shelf instead of giving it a poor rating.
Things that worked:
- the overal premise was promising!
- the side characters were pretty good (and bad)
- I did like the h for the most part
Things that didn't work:
- believability. I get that brain injuries are complex, but it all was a little too convenient at times. For example: the fact that the H was supposed to not remember anything past age 5...but he knew what porn and fetishes are, had no problem thinking about his arousal, didn't act juvenile, and had the vocabulary of a sailor. I don't know any 5 year old like that!! I found it eye roll inducing after a while.
- the mushy instalove the H felt for the h right away to make it his "one eighty" 🙄🙄🙄 I just didn't really like the "perfect" guy he became.
Again, this very well could be my book funk influencing my experience with this book...but it just didn't work for me 🤷🏻♀️
February 23, 2020
This book was so freaking interesting.
I was expecting a kinda cringy Bully romance, where we saw a major douche do all kinds of wrong only to redeem himself in the end after some light groveling, etc, etc.
This is not what One Eighty is about.
As the title suggests, this book is all about flipping the script.
I really don't want to spoil anything, because the journey is where it's at with this book. But in the first few chapters (especially being inside Danton's head), I was like: hell no. This boy is never coming out of my sh*t list.
And then, as the story moved forward my heart was breaking so much for Danton and Piper. But at the same time, I had all the butterflies in my stomach, and I just was rooting so hard for them. Piper did deserve so much better, but Danton also deserved to be the best he could with the new circumstances he found himself in.
Just a quick disclaimer and some trigger warnings:
Overall I loved One Eighty, it was everything I didn't know that I wanted from a high school Bully Romance. BUT, although this doesn't necessarily end with what I would call a cliffhanger there were MANY unanswered questions, and I'm looking forward to seeing what's going to happen to both Danton and Piper moving forward.
I was expecting a kinda cringy Bully romance, where we saw a major douche do all kinds of wrong only to redeem himself in the end after some light groveling, etc, etc.
This is not what One Eighty is about.
As the title suggests, this book is all about flipping the script.
I really don't want to spoil anything, because the journey is where it's at with this book. But in the first few chapters (especially being inside Danton's head), I was like: hell no. This boy is never coming out of my sh*t list.
And then, as the story moved forward my heart was breaking so much for Danton and Piper. But at the same time, I had all the butterflies in my stomach, and I just was rooting so hard for them. Piper did deserve so much better, but Danton also deserved to be the best he could with the new circumstances he found himself in.
Just a quick disclaimer and some trigger warnings:
Overall I loved One Eighty, it was everything I didn't know that I wanted from a high school Bully Romance. BUT, although this doesn't necessarily end with what I would call a cliffhanger there were MANY unanswered questions, and I'm looking forward to seeing what's going to happen to both Danton and Piper moving forward.
March 5, 2020
It seems like bully romance is in in a big way at the moment and to be honest it's not something I read a lot of recently. It used to be one I enjoyed but I have been going through a low angst, safe romance faze for a while. However with all of my GoodReads feeds being flooded with it I haven't been able to avoid it and the blurb for this one had me racing to Amazon and discovering it's a KU title.
So I'm not going to lie Dalton was a complete jerk and he made everyone else join in on Pipers torture. And when his amnesia hit I wasn't really sure what to expect especially after reading the prologue. Because that prologue had me holding my breath for most of the book.
Dalton gave pretty good grovel but Piper didn't just roll over. She held him accountable for everything he had put her through and she didn't just trust in his newfound change of heart. But as he proved himself and she forgave him she didn't hold it over his head either.
I loved her inner strength. She was mature beyond her years and although she didn't stand up for herself her strength and maturity came from all that she'd been through. And I really liked her. She knew her worth and she communicated what she was feeling and what she wanted.
I really really wanted to see Dalton get his memory back and more of how their relationship was received at the school. And I felt the ending was a little abrupt and left things too open but it has set up Frankie and Zeke's story. Fingers crossed we get more Dalton and Piper in their book because I want more.
So I'm not going to lie Dalton was a complete jerk and he made everyone else join in on Pipers torture. And when his amnesia hit I wasn't really sure what to expect especially after reading the prologue. Because that prologue had me holding my breath for most of the book.
Dalton gave pretty good grovel but Piper didn't just roll over. She held him accountable for everything he had put her through and she didn't just trust in his newfound change of heart. But as he proved himself and she forgave him she didn't hold it over his head either.
I loved her inner strength. She was mature beyond her years and although she didn't stand up for herself her strength and maturity came from all that she'd been through. And I really liked her. She knew her worth and she communicated what she was feeling and what she wanted.
I really really wanted to see Dalton get his memory back and more of how their relationship was received at the school. And I felt the ending was a little abrupt and left things too open but it has set up Frankie and Zeke's story. Fingers crossed we get more Dalton and Piper in their book because I want more.
April 29, 2020
3.5 ⭐'s
It's entirely possible that this book would have been better for me if I hadn't just read a really good enemies to lovers book ~or~ it could've been that I felt the H/h were just too young and the bullying was WAY too much.
Dalton and Piper grew up together as neighbors and when they were in kindergarten, she innocently snubbed him to play with someone else and he has never let her forget it. He tortures her at every turn. It seemed a bit over the top for what she did.
In the present, Piper's been invited to a party to meet up with a guy. She doesn't know that it's only because of a dare and when things start to go down, Dalton follows her to see her suffer. Unfortunately for him, he's in for as big of a surprise.
They both go to leave and since Dalton's been drinking, Piper drives. Dalton's upset and yells at Piper the whole way, finally, pulling the steering wheel and contributing to them going over the side of the road.
They are both injured but Dalton's loses his memory and seems like a totally different person. Piper can't trust it though...he has put her through too much.
However, since she is tutoring his sister, she's forced to see him five days a week and he takes every advantage. He doesn't remember all the bad things he's done to her, he only knows that he's wildly attracted to her.
She keeps pushing him away but he shows her time and time again that he's changed and after some soul searching, she decides to give him a chance.
I really liked the new and improved Dalton but I can understand why Piper was hesitant.
There's a lot of drama and I was happy with the way Dalton and Piper handled things...for the most part.
There is no epilogue which I really didn't mind but their story is unfinished. The next book, Catch Twenty-Two, is about Piper's best friend, Frankie. Things are set up nicely for their book but there was no update on Dalton's amnesia. Hopefully, there will be more in the second book.
It's entirely possible that this book would have been better for me if I hadn't just read a really good enemies to lovers book ~or~ it could've been that I felt the H/h were just too young and the bullying was WAY too much.
Dalton and Piper grew up together as neighbors and when they were in kindergarten, she innocently snubbed him to play with someone else and he has never let her forget it. He tortures her at every turn. It seemed a bit over the top for what she did.
In the present, Piper's been invited to a party to meet up with a guy. She doesn't know that it's only because of a dare and when things start to go down, Dalton follows her to see her suffer. Unfortunately for him, he's in for as big of a surprise.
They both go to leave and since Dalton's been drinking, Piper drives. Dalton's upset and yells at Piper the whole way, finally, pulling the steering wheel and contributing to them going over the side of the road.
They are both injured but Dalton's loses his memory and seems like a totally different person. Piper can't trust it though...he has put her through too much.
However, since she is tutoring his sister, she's forced to see him five days a week and he takes every advantage. He doesn't remember all the bad things he's done to her, he only knows that he's wildly attracted to her.
She keeps pushing him away but he shows her time and time again that he's changed and after some soul searching, she decides to give him a chance.
I really liked the new and improved Dalton but I can understand why Piper was hesitant.
There's a lot of drama and I was happy with the way Dalton and Piper handled things...for the most part.
There is no epilogue which I really didn't mind but their story is unfinished. The next book, Catch Twenty-Two, is about Piper's best friend, Frankie. Things are set up nicely for their book but there was no update on Dalton's amnesia. Hopefully, there will be more in the second book.
February 16, 2020
4 STARS
I really like it, I was looking for bully romance a long time now and this one was exactly what I wanted!It's fast paced and the characters fantastic!I loved the romance , it was refreshing, heartwarming and sexy.It has some emotional moments and the romance felt heavy!
“Kissing him is wrong and magical.
It’s forbidden and everything I didn’t know I wanted.
It’s cruel and perfect.
It’s over before I want it to be.”
I adored Piper and Dalton after what happened andhow he tried to win her was very good!They have some really sweet moments!I swoon with them and I like their banter!
It was a nice surprise, I loved the writing a lot and I'm looking forward to read more books from this author!
I really like it, I was looking for bully romance a long time now and this one was exactly what I wanted!It's fast paced and the characters fantastic!I loved the romance , it was refreshing, heartwarming and sexy.It has some emotional moments and the romance felt heavy!
“Kissing him is wrong and magical.
It’s forbidden and everything I didn’t know I wanted.
It’s cruel and perfect.
It’s over before I want it to be.”
I adored Piper and Dalton after what happened andhow he tried to win her was very good!They have some really sweet moments!I swoon with them and I like their banter!
It was a nice surprise, I loved the writing a lot and I'm looking forward to read more books from this author!
April 21, 2020
It was interesting and I wanted to see how this was going to play out.
One-Eighty is definitely a bully/enemies to loves romance. I was a bit hesitant when the whole car accident/amnesia came into play but just went along with it all. In it, you will meet Dalton and Piper. So many things came to light after Dalton lost his memories. His whole character changed and was kind of like a little lost puppy throughout the book.
It was completely obvious that he had a crush on piper when he was little. Heck, he still does but he just had to be a complete douche with the popular crowd and torture her instead. Yet, he's the complete opposite after the accident. Enter Piper who is completely thinking this is a new game from him. She just keeps waiting for the other shoe to drop and trust me - I was right there with her.
Eventually her walls start to crumble and he is just a cute little shit throughout the book. They definitely are adorable together and work through things as well. The only thing I would complain about is the damn ending. Ugh, it was sort of a cliffhanger but not really and I'm just not okay with it. I want to know what is going to happen at school now and if everyone is just going to take a chill pill and let them live. Or if he's going to get his memories completely back and become the true douche he once was.
I have so many questions and can't wait for the next book!
One-Eighty is definitely a bully/enemies to loves romance. I was a bit hesitant when the whole car accident/amnesia came into play but just went along with it all. In it, you will meet Dalton and Piper. So many things came to light after Dalton lost his memories. His whole character changed and was kind of like a little lost puppy throughout the book.
It was completely obvious that he had a crush on piper when he was little. Heck, he still does but he just had to be a complete douche with the popular crowd and torture her instead. Yet, he's the complete opposite after the accident. Enter Piper who is completely thinking this is a new game from him. She just keeps waiting for the other shoe to drop and trust me - I was right there with her.
Eventually her walls start to crumble and he is just a cute little shit throughout the book. They definitely are adorable together and work through things as well. The only thing I would complain about is the damn ending. Ugh, it was sort of a cliffhanger but not really and I'm just not okay with it. I want to know what is going to happen at school now and if everyone is just going to take a chill pill and let them live. Or if he's going to get his memories completely back and become the true douche he once was.
I have so many questions and can't wait for the next book!
October 6, 2022
A book I might read again.
The title says it: he makes a 180 from arsehole of the century to the world’s best little alpha.
One of the worst high school bullies I’ve read and one of the best redeemed ones.
I’m reading the next books so I can follow this Hxh.
The title says it: he makes a 180 from arsehole of the century to the world’s best little alpha.
One of the worst high school bullies I’ve read and one of the best redeemed ones.
I’m reading the next books so I can follow this Hxh.
June 26, 2020
This book was recommended to me by my sister, and it was a perfectly sweet summer read. I didn't love it, but I did enjoy the story.
This book tells the story of Piper and Dalton. Piper is the victim of bullying by Dalton and has been for a long time. Dalton does everything in his power to make Piper's life miserable. He's there at school, and they live next door to each other, there's no peace for Piper.“You’re fucking pitiful.” His words are calm.
There’s no sign of the rage and hostility that echoed through the car just moments ago. “You’re just the girl everyone loves to pick on. Everyone hates you. There isn’t one person at Westover Prep that likes you.”
When things go to hell at a party, Piper and Dalton get into a car together and later end up in an accident, which results in Dalton losing his memory. He has lost all memories from the last decade, remembers only glimpses of his childhood, and, most importantly, has no memory of Piper.
So when he first meets Piper after the accident, he's intrigued by the girl who hates him. All she wants is him to stay away from her. But it's impossible to avoid each other when Piper is tutoring Dalton's sister, spending a lot of time over at their house.“Fuck,” he mumbles when he breathes me in for a second time. “Please tell me you’re mine.”
I liked the story, but I would've wanted to get a glimpse of how big an asshole Dalton was. We knew he was the biggest jerk to Piper, but after his memory loss, his family is shocked at his new personality. They're shocked at him attending dinner and playing with the youngest of the family, how big of a douche was this guy? Other than that, this was a quick and sweet read.“Let me prove to you I’m not that guy.”
Warning: This book touches on mental health, bullying, and self-harm. So if that triggers you, I would avoid reading this book.
January 29, 2020
One Eighty is a different kind of Bully Romance. It is painful to read in the beginning, just because high schoolers can be so cruel. But then it twists and morphs into something else entirely. It takes redemption and forgiveness to a whole new level. And while it is entertaining, it also makes you wonder how you would react if you were in similar situations. It has a bit of Darkness, but also Light. It has characters that make you want to throw your kindle, but also try and understand. Marie James has written another fantastic book! *It should be noted that while it says this book is book 1, it does not have a cliffhanger. 5 Full Stars!
dnf
May 12, 2022DNF @ 7% - the hero’s reason for tormenting the h for 13 years is outrageously silly. I read some reviews and see that we don’t get any resolution on that. He just forgets and that’s that. 😐
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2020
It's been a while since I read a YA romance (high school age MC's) and I can honestly say I have never read anything with the Bullying to the extreme it was taken to in this book. I enjoyed the story and the twist of Dalton loosing his memory and falling for the girl he lived to torment.
Normally the bullying is glossed over and mentioned that it had happened, you may get an incident or two but in this book it is full on bullying to the extreme where it was almost painful to keep reading because I felt so bad for Piper. Piper the sweet shy girl that lives next door to Dalton the creator of all of her torment. That is until the accident.
Read more of my review and enter a giveaway HERE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
Normally the bullying is glossed over and mentioned that it had happened, you may get an incident or two but in this book it is full on bullying to the extreme where it was almost painful to keep reading because I felt so bad for Piper. Piper the sweet shy girl that lives next door to Dalton the creator of all of her torment. That is until the accident.
Read more of my review and enter a giveaway HERE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
February 17, 2020
Review coming soon...
February 13, 2020
We've all encountered a bully sometime in our life, but what would you do if that individual doesn't remember all he/she has done to you? Would you believe them or would you be cautious? The blurb pulled me in and I was intrigued to see what it was all about. Let me tell you that Marie James did not disappoint!!
Piper had endured the tormenting/bullying from Dalton for a long time and then all of a sudden-poof it as gone. I'll be the first to say that I was very skeptical at first on Dalton's change and kept waiting for a "got you" moment. Piper was confused and not sure if to truly believe Dalton's heartfelt actions because she knew he didn't have a heart. The more I read the more I thought to myself that these two were like a puzzle that fit perfectly. Be prepared to get lost in their emotional love story.
A story of forgiveness and a second chance at love-who doesn't love that? Thank you Marie for allowing us to get lost in a story other than our own. Kara~4 Stars
Piper had endured the tormenting/bullying from Dalton for a long time and then all of a sudden-poof it as gone. I'll be the first to say that I was very skeptical at first on Dalton's change and kept waiting for a "got you" moment. Piper was confused and not sure if to truly believe Dalton's heartfelt actions because she knew he didn't have a heart. The more I read the more I thought to myself that these two were like a puzzle that fit perfectly. Be prepared to get lost in their emotional love story.
A story of forgiveness and a second chance at love-who doesn't love that? Thank you Marie for allowing us to get lost in a story other than our own. Kara~4 Stars
October 24, 2021
I kept waiting for his memory to return, but they never came back. I'm disappointed!
June 24, 2020
I'm glad that I finally got around to reading this book. The synopsis pulled me in and I'm glad to say that it didn't let me down. While this does talk about dark topics, it's a story about forgiveness.
The first word that comes to mind when I think about the main characters is tragic. Their relationship was rough and the way that Dalton and his friends treated Piper was downright awful. They were awful people and I was so sure that Dalton wouldn't be able to redeem himself with Piper or me.
Him losing his memories was the best thing that could have happened to him. He got to witness his behavior from a new POV and see his faults. He was genuinely sorry about the way he treated his family and especially Piper. Reading about Dalton being completely mesmerized by Piper was so good to read about.
"It's impossible knowing that I love her, knowing that she's meant for me, and I ruined everything in a past I can't even remember."
Piper had been through so much shit at the hands of his friends. I could understand her fear and uncertainty of Dalton even though he lost his memories. She had been bullied by him for so long and so in so much dept that she resulted to self harm. When I found that out, my heart went out to her even more. She found a way to stand up for herself and even forgive Dalton. She had to decide on loving him or deciding to move on completely.
My emotions and thoughts were all over the place while reading this one. I enjoyed it, but I know it might not be for everyone. This is a bully romance that really went there and I enjoyed it.
TW: Bullying; Self Harm
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The first word that comes to mind when I think about the main characters is tragic. Their relationship was rough and the way that Dalton and his friends treated Piper was downright awful. They were awful people and I was so sure that Dalton wouldn't be able to redeem himself with Piper or me.
Him losing his memories was the best thing that could have happened to him. He got to witness his behavior from a new POV and see his faults. He was genuinely sorry about the way he treated his family and especially Piper. Reading about Dalton being completely mesmerized by Piper was so good to read about.
"It's impossible knowing that I love her, knowing that she's meant for me, and I ruined everything in a past I can't even remember."
Piper had been through so much shit at the hands of his friends. I could understand her fear and uncertainty of Dalton even though he lost his memories. She had been bullied by him for so long and so in so much dept that she resulted to self harm. When I found that out, my heart went out to her even more. She found a way to stand up for herself and even forgive Dalton. She had to decide on loving him or deciding to move on completely.
My emotions and thoughts were all over the place while reading this one. I enjoyed it, but I know it might not be for everyone. This is a bully romance that really went there and I enjoyed it.
TW: Bullying; Self Harm
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April 19, 2020
The title of this book truly represents the heart of this story. It's just perfect. I was expecting a typical high school bully romance in this story but I got so much more than that.
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. It pulls you in and absorbs you into the story. The storytelling was very natural and effortless. The plot of the story was very intriguing. I am going to be honest and say that I don't think that the premise of the story was all that realistic, but it was definitely entertaining. The overall story had a great flow but I felt that there could have been a little more conflict in the story. The ending of the story left a lot of unanswered questions but I am hoping that they will be answered in future books in this series.
The characters were very relatable. I loved that these characters were very authentic. They both had flaws and neither of them was perfect. I also like how they both stayed true to themselves and fought for what they wanted. I liked the character growth from both Dalton and Piper in the story. They are both different people at the end of the book from the people at the start of the story.
The romance in this story was a complicated one. Dalton used to bully Piper relentlessly but can't remember a thing after the accident. He tries to prove to Piper that he is different and that he is sorry for everything that he put her through. Piper is dealing with this new Dalton who is kind to her while still remembering all the things he used to do to her. They both have to overcome all these feelings while falling in love with the other.
Overall, this is a compelling story about forgiveness. This is a powerful story that touches on bullying and self-harm so it isn't an easy read by any means. I was totally invested in this story and I can't wait to read the second book in this series!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
I really enjoyed the author's writing style. It pulls you in and absorbs you into the story. The storytelling was very natural and effortless. The plot of the story was very intriguing. I am going to be honest and say that I don't think that the premise of the story was all that realistic, but it was definitely entertaining. The overall story had a great flow but I felt that there could have been a little more conflict in the story. The ending of the story left a lot of unanswered questions but I am hoping that they will be answered in future books in this series.
The characters were very relatable. I loved that these characters were very authentic. They both had flaws and neither of them was perfect. I also like how they both stayed true to themselves and fought for what they wanted. I liked the character growth from both Dalton and Piper in the story. They are both different people at the end of the book from the people at the start of the story.
The romance in this story was a complicated one. Dalton used to bully Piper relentlessly but can't remember a thing after the accident. He tries to prove to Piper that he is different and that he is sorry for everything that he put her through. Piper is dealing with this new Dalton who is kind to her while still remembering all the things he used to do to her. They both have to overcome all these feelings while falling in love with the other.
Overall, this is a compelling story about forgiveness. This is a powerful story that touches on bullying and self-harm so it isn't an easy read by any means. I was totally invested in this story and I can't wait to read the second book in this series!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
June 2, 2020
*** 3,5 stars ***
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December 13, 2020
✰ 3.5 stars ✰
This wasn’t tooo bad. The grovelling was great, the concept/twist was interesting, the characters had chemistry but…I just craved for more?? I didn’t feel satisifed that Dalton didn’t get his memories back. The angst this story could have gone in, I would have personally enjoyed it so much more. I’m still glad Dalton and Piper got their happy ending tho. I felt the sincerity of how sorry he was to Piper, even tho he didn't remember the extent of what he did. As for Piper, I loved her. The things she had to go through :( I wanted to hug her :(
I’m kinda conflicted between 3.5-4 stars. I feel like this could have been 4+ stars if there was more angst (excuse my greedy ass for wanting more drama lmaoo). I’d still recommend it tho, if you’re in the mood for something different from your usual bully romances!
This wasn’t tooo bad. The grovelling was great, the concept/twist was interesting, the characters had chemistry but…I just craved for more?? I didn’t feel satisifed that Dalton didn’t get his memories back. The angst this story could have gone in, I would have personally enjoyed it so much more. I’m still glad Dalton and Piper got their happy ending tho. I felt the sincerity of how sorry he was to Piper, even tho he didn't remember the extent of what he did. As for Piper, I loved her. The things she had to go through :( I wanted to hug her :(
I’m kinda conflicted between 3.5-4 stars. I feel like this could have been 4+ stars if there was more angst (excuse my greedy ass for wanting more drama lmaoo). I’d still recommend it tho, if you’re in the mood for something different from your usual bully romances!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2022
It wasn't really a bully romance more like a former bully grovel romance. And it was great!
The author know how to write, which made me believe in the story well. Glad that I read the reviews first, that way I didn't expect the H to get his memory back.
Struggeling now, whether to read the second novel or not...
November 2, 2020
‘I’m not supposed to want her. I’m supposed to ruin her.’
Well, our first read by Marie James certainly lived up to its name as we saw a character do a complete one-eighty personality shift in this bully romance with a twist.
One Eighty starts off with a bang, with a powerful and intriguing prologue, luring us in to see how Dalton and Pipers story would unfold. After all, how could Piper ever succumb to a man who had bullied her, treated her so cruelly and made her school life an absolute misery?
‘Our story doesn’t end this way.’
Dalton Payne had tormented Piper Schofield from kindergarten, only intensifying in his cruelty as the years progressed. Now with only a year to go of high school, Dalton and his vile friends aren’t giving up any time soon of their treatment of, as they call her, Bloody Mary. How Piper landed that nickname was humiliating and mean. How Piper survived Dalton’s mistreatment is beyond us.
‘I was a heathen at five, and now I’m unstoppable.’
Wielding power over their small town and their school, the hugely popular Dalton is relentless in his pursuit to cause Piper as much unhappiness and pain he can muster, until……………something happens and his feelings change, but is it enough for Piper to forgive and forget? After all, Piper is counting the days until she can escape Westover Prep for college, she just has to survive one more year. Can she do it?
In our opinion, he reasoning behind Dalton’s initial grudge against Piper was petty to the extreme. It made it difficult for us to completely warm to Dalton and trust him being that something so ridiculous could cause him to make a young girl’s life a living hell.
‘This is Dalton Payne, and there are no boundaries for his cruelty.’
One Eighty started out with a promise of the gut-churning, heartbreaking angst and anger we associate with bully romances, however, the one-eighty shift in the story left us waiting for the other shoe to drop. Whilst the twist was very clever, and there’s no doubt the story delivered the drama, we were left feeling a little flat with the lack of intensity we had anticipated. If you want to find out how Dalton and Piper come to terms with their past whilst navigating their future and you enjoy bully romances with a bit of a twist then pick up One Eighty.
‘I’ll never forget the past. Doing so will only lead to more pain, and I’ve had my fair share of that in my life already.’
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Well, our first read by Marie James certainly lived up to its name as we saw a character do a complete one-eighty personality shift in this bully romance with a twist.
One Eighty starts off with a bang, with a powerful and intriguing prologue, luring us in to see how Dalton and Pipers story would unfold. After all, how could Piper ever succumb to a man who had bullied her, treated her so cruelly and made her school life an absolute misery?
‘Our story doesn’t end this way.’
Dalton Payne had tormented Piper Schofield from kindergarten, only intensifying in his cruelty as the years progressed. Now with only a year to go of high school, Dalton and his vile friends aren’t giving up any time soon of their treatment of, as they call her, Bloody Mary. How Piper landed that nickname was humiliating and mean. How Piper survived Dalton’s mistreatment is beyond us.
‘I was a heathen at five, and now I’m unstoppable.’
Wielding power over their small town and their school, the hugely popular Dalton is relentless in his pursuit to cause Piper as much unhappiness and pain he can muster, until……………something happens and his feelings change, but is it enough for Piper to forgive and forget? After all, Piper is counting the days until she can escape Westover Prep for college, she just has to survive one more year. Can she do it?
In our opinion, he reasoning behind Dalton’s initial grudge against Piper was petty to the extreme. It made it difficult for us to completely warm to Dalton and trust him being that something so ridiculous could cause him to make a young girl’s life a living hell.
‘This is Dalton Payne, and there are no boundaries for his cruelty.’
One Eighty started out with a promise of the gut-churning, heartbreaking angst and anger we associate with bully romances, however, the one-eighty shift in the story left us waiting for the other shoe to drop. Whilst the twist was very clever, and there’s no doubt the story delivered the drama, we were left feeling a little flat with the lack of intensity we had anticipated. If you want to find out how Dalton and Piper come to terms with their past whilst navigating their future and you enjoy bully romances with a bit of a twist then pick up One Eighty.
‘I’ll never forget the past. Doing so will only lead to more pain, and I’ve had my fair share of that in my life already.’
Come and say hi, at:
✲ TotallyBookedBlog
✲ TBB on Facebook
✲ TBB on Instagram
✲ TBB on Twitter
✲ TBB on Pinterest
February 19, 2020
This was a unique take on a bully romance and was really refreshing. Piper Schofield had been bullied by Dalton and his band of merry boys and girls for over a decade. The bullying was relentless and caused immeasurable mental and physical scars. My heart absolutely broke for her. One night, these two find themselves in the same car and they wreck, the kicker of the story, Dalton wakes up with no memories of the last decade.
When Dalton finally wakes, the tables have turned one-eighty, Dalton falls in love with Piper, but can over a decade worth of hurt and pain be forgiven?
The author did a great job bringing this story to life. I love the grovelling, I bought the sincerity, I just wish that Piper had made him wait a bit longer. I know I would have. This is my first read by this author and I will definitely be keeping an eye out to read more.
When Dalton finally wakes, the tables have turned one-eighty, Dalton falls in love with Piper, but can over a decade worth of hurt and pain be forgiven?
The author did a great job bringing this story to life. I love the grovelling, I bought the sincerity, I just wish that Piper had made him wait a bit longer. I know I would have. This is my first read by this author and I will definitely be keeping an eye out to read more.
June 8, 2022
Here i was waiting for his memories to return, eagerly anticipating for the moment where he remembers it all to see how he will behave now. But the book ended before any of that would happen.
Still, this delivered a very satisfying grovel I've been meaning to read in a long time. Hero indeed did a complete one eighty from being the absolute worst bully/tormentor to this sweet considerate nice guy who can't believe he ever treated Piper [h] that way once and now he worships her.
All thanks to the brain damage/amnesia a lil accident caused. ;)
Still, this delivered a very satisfying grovel I've been meaning to read in a long time. Hero indeed did a complete one eighty from being the absolute worst bully/tormentor to this sweet considerate nice guy who can't believe he ever treated Piper [h] that way once and now he worships her.
All thanks to the brain damage/amnesia a lil accident caused. ;)
March 23, 2022
First of all, this book uses a trope I hate — amnesia — and I went in knowing that, so that’s on me. That said, the story didn’t work anyway. But I’m giving it more than 1 star because the writing isn't awful, and it’s an interesting idea that just doesn't land.
Dalton has bullied Piper for years. It’s so bad that it’s caused her to self-harm. But when they get into a car accident, a head injury takes his memories of the last few years, and the new him becomes obsessed with her and is horrified to learn how he’s treated her.
Despite my aversion to the amnesia thing, I tried this because it looked like a unique spin on the bully trope. I read it sometimes for the angst, the grovel/redemption, and for the mystery of how the story will get the characters to an HEA when they start from such a rough place. But, most of them fail to convince me the characters should be together, and often the heroine seems like a doormat for ending up with a guy who spread vicious rumors that ruined her life or did other [insert awful stuff].
This book does have one thing going for it: Piper isn’t a doormat...but, the story solves their problems by turning Dalton into a different person. That’s not satisfying, and it feels like a way to get out of giving him character development.
Using the amnesia trope to magically give a character an entirely different personality with no examination of why he’s so different is NOT a good way to do it. Dalton was an OTT terrible guy before who ignored his own siblings, in addition to being awful to Piper! Now, after a head injury, suddenly he cares about other people…just because? Shouldn't the point of the amnesia trope be to examine why the person was Like That before? I don't even read this trope often, but I can spot what's a bad way to do it, and this is it!
His reason for targeting Piper in the first place is also something that happened when they were CHILDREN that he knows he should let go, and he just…doesn’t. In a bully book, he should at least have a reason he thinks is valid like in Broken Pretty Things. Or, that book’s sequel Broken Black Heart gives the guy a dumb reason for bullying, but that story still worked on an emotional level. This book didn’t draw me in enough emotionally to be able to overlook...all of this mess.
So, it's a swing and a miss. But the writing is not bad enough that I’d still try more from this author.
Dalton has bullied Piper for years. It’s so bad that it’s caused her to self-harm. But when they get into a car accident, a head injury takes his memories of the last few years, and the new him becomes obsessed with her and is horrified to learn how he’s treated her.
Despite my aversion to the amnesia thing, I tried this because it looked like a unique spin on the bully trope. I read it sometimes for the angst, the grovel/redemption, and for the mystery of how the story will get the characters to an HEA when they start from such a rough place. But, most of them fail to convince me the characters should be together, and often the heroine seems like a doormat for ending up with a guy who spread vicious rumors that ruined her life or did other [insert awful stuff].
This book does have one thing going for it: Piper isn’t a doormat...but, the story solves their problems by turning Dalton into a different person. That’s not satisfying, and it feels like a way to get out of giving him character development.
Using the amnesia trope to magically give a character an entirely different personality with no examination of why he’s so different is NOT a good way to do it. Dalton was an OTT terrible guy before who ignored his own siblings, in addition to being awful to Piper! Now, after a head injury, suddenly he cares about other people…just because? Shouldn't the point of the amnesia trope be to examine why the person was Like That before? I don't even read this trope often, but I can spot what's a bad way to do it, and this is it!
His reason for targeting Piper in the first place is also something that happened when they were CHILDREN that he knows he should let go, and he just…doesn’t. In a bully book, he should at least have a reason he thinks is valid like in Broken Pretty Things. Or, that book’s sequel Broken Black Heart gives the guy a dumb reason for bullying, but that story still worked on an emotional level. This book didn’t draw me in enough emotionally to be able to overlook...all of this mess.
So, it's a swing and a miss. But the writing is not bad enough that I’d still try more from this author.
February 12, 2020
Piper is the girl you see at school who blends into the shadows. For some (stupid) reason, the resident bully asshole, Dalton, has picked her to be the center of his attention. Only it's not the good kind of attention, it's the most negative kind of attention you can subject someone to. And it's taken its toll on poor Piper. And then the accident that changed everything changed Dalton's attention to something completely different. Can this be his redemption?
I have to admit right off the bat that bully romances are getting a bit old for my tastes. They've been about done to death, and few rarely reach the pinnacle of bully romance that I have L.J. Shen's Vicious on. However, I liked One-Eighty. Why? Because it's different. It's got a twist that sets it apart from the average bully romance and made it more interesting than the standard issue. I ended up rooting for Piper and Dalton and found their story of love and redemption to be really interesting and engaging reading. If you're in the mood for a bully romance that's out of the box, albeit one with triggers , then I think you'll enjoy One-Eighty as I did.
ARC via Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
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February 5, 2020
4 stars
This is such a great read! An intense, dramatic and emotional YA bully romance with a difference, when the arrogant, merciless bully loses his memory and falls for the girl he has spent his life tormenting. I was sucked in from the very beginning and I loved this one.
Dalton has made it his mission in life to make his neighbour, Piper, miserable. It all started in kindergarten and has continued over the years and is now completely ingrained into who Dalton is, and his role in the school hierarchy. For years Piper has been tormented by Dalton, and by those seeking his approval, and though she suffers, she has learned to live with it and is biding her time until high school finishes and she can get the hell away from everybody who has made her life hell.
But one night changes everything. An accident results in Dalton losing his memory, wiping everything but his very early childhood, and as he tries to re-learn his life and his place amongst his family and friends, it quickly becomes apparent that he’s not the same boy he used to be. And it’s Piper that he reacts to the strongest when he takes one look at her and is completely smitten.
Of course Piper is stunned by Dalton’s abrupt change. He makes it clear that he’s after her and his earnest pursuit understandably terrifies and confuses her. She wants nothing to do with him, he wants nothing but her. It’s a difficult situation and Dalton has his work cut out for him to win over the girl he has hurt so badly.
It’s such a good set-up, and this book had me absolutely captivated. Written in dual POVs we see Dalton’s horrendous cruelty to Piper, and understand its impact on her. We see his confusion and disgust as he comes to realise the boy he used to be, and his struggle to accept his past behaviour and to convince those around him that he has changed. Especially Piper, who wants so badly to believe in Dalton, but who is completely justified in her reluctance to trust him after all he has put her through. It’s an emotional ride, and I was feeling everything right along with them.
The love story is so sweet. Very fast moving with the intensity of feelings, but I went with it, and I got swept up in the thrill of first love. It takes some work, but they reach the point where they laugh, tease, banter and touch, and it was so, so beautiful to see! Their openness is fantastic, and I love how honest they are with each other. Their situation is complicated though, and they have more hurdles and heartache to deal with as they figure it all out, but thankfully the drama and angst is handled really well and the story ends well.
This is my first read by Marie James, and I loved her writing. She sucked me in and had me feeling all the feels, and that’s just the way I like it. This book is a strong start to the Westover Prep series, introducing us to a world of cliques, bullies and the usual high school drama. Though this book is very much focussed on Dalton and Piper, we still get to see the main players and get a good feel for the dynamics at play. I’m excited to continue on with Piper’s best friend, Frankie’s, story up next in Catch Twenty-Two.
Such a great read. 4 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a great read! An intense, dramatic and emotional YA bully romance with a difference, when the arrogant, merciless bully loses his memory and falls for the girl he has spent his life tormenting. I was sucked in from the very beginning and I loved this one.
Dalton has made it his mission in life to make his neighbour, Piper, miserable. It all started in kindergarten and has continued over the years and is now completely ingrained into who Dalton is, and his role in the school hierarchy. For years Piper has been tormented by Dalton, and by those seeking his approval, and though she suffers, she has learned to live with it and is biding her time until high school finishes and she can get the hell away from everybody who has made her life hell.
But one night changes everything. An accident results in Dalton losing his memory, wiping everything but his very early childhood, and as he tries to re-learn his life and his place amongst his family and friends, it quickly becomes apparent that he’s not the same boy he used to be. And it’s Piper that he reacts to the strongest when he takes one look at her and is completely smitten.
“Fuck,” he mumbles when he breathes me in for a second time. “Please tell me you’re mine.”
Of course Piper is stunned by Dalton’s abrupt change. He makes it clear that he’s after her and his earnest pursuit understandably terrifies and confuses her. She wants nothing to do with him, he wants nothing but her. It’s a difficult situation and Dalton has his work cut out for him to win over the girl he has hurt so badly.
“Tell me what I can do, and I’ll do it. I know it’s going to take time, but please promise me that you’ll at least try. Give me a chance, baby, and I’ll prove to you that I’m worth it.”
It’s such a good set-up, and this book had me absolutely captivated. Written in dual POVs we see Dalton’s horrendous cruelty to Piper, and understand its impact on her. We see his confusion and disgust as he comes to realise the boy he used to be, and his struggle to accept his past behaviour and to convince those around him that he has changed. Especially Piper, who wants so badly to believe in Dalton, but who is completely justified in her reluctance to trust him after all he has put her through. It’s an emotional ride, and I was feeling everything right along with them.
“I won’t ever trust you.” Tears well on her lower lashes, but she takes another step back when I reach up to swipe them away. “When you get your memories back, it’ll only make things ten times worse.”
“I don’t want my memories back. I don’t want to be that guy. I can’t be the guy who avoids his family, keeps crappy friends, and is mean to pretty girls. My memories won’t matter because I’ll never forget how I feel when I’m close to you.”
The love story is so sweet. Very fast moving with the intensity of feelings, but I went with it, and I got swept up in the thrill of first love. It takes some work, but they reach the point where they laugh, tease, banter and touch, and it was so, so beautiful to see! Their openness is fantastic, and I love how honest they are with each other. Their situation is complicated though, and they have more hurdles and heartache to deal with as they figure it all out, but thankfully the drama and angst is handled really well and the story ends well.
This is my first read by Marie James, and I loved her writing. She sucked me in and had me feeling all the feels, and that’s just the way I like it. This book is a strong start to the Westover Prep series, introducing us to a world of cliques, bullies and the usual high school drama. Though this book is very much focussed on Dalton and Piper, we still get to see the main players and get a good feel for the dynamics at play. I’m excited to continue on with Piper’s best friend, Frankie’s, story up next in Catch Twenty-Two.
Such a great read. 4 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2020
One Eighty is a story that is troublesome, emotional, absorbing and heartbreaking. It's been a while since I have read a bully romance and I have forgotten how tormenting it is. I truly felt the pain and heartbreak the heroine went through which, to be honest, made me furious. Furious at her bully!
Dalton is Piper's tormentor. He has been bullying her from the time they were kids and it hasn't stopped. His friends also partook in the bullying and made Piper's life increasingly difficult. The only time it stops is when Dalton loses his memory. He forgets about the years of pain he has caused Piper. He forgets the cruel nickname he has given her and what everyone now calls her–because of him! At first he doesn't understand why she feels such contempt and hatred towards him but he soon learns what he did to deserve it. He cannot believe that he was such a monster towards this sweet and innocent girl. He was utterly detestable! He knows that he should give Piper her space and stay away from her but that is difficult because he is drawn to her. He craves her. And he is willing to do anything for her forgiveness and... love.
I couldn't stand Dalton. Some of the stuff he put Piper through, in my books, is unforgivable. He was cruel to her for such a stupid reason and found immense joy and ruining her life. He does change when he loses his memory and becomes a better person but I had a problem with determining if his feelings were authentic. I think I needed more proof to indicate that he had feelings or felt something else besides hatred towards Piper before the accident.
I was also happy that Piper didn't forgive him too easily. She didn't trust him. She was unbelievably strong to deal with what he put her through and even helped him when she didn't have to.
I would have liked to see more of their school life when they got together but I guess that's what makes you want to read the next book even though it's about a different couple. Although this book wasn't an easy read, it was consuming and I couldn't wait to read it.
Dalton is Piper's tormentor. He has been bullying her from the time they were kids and it hasn't stopped. His friends also partook in the bullying and made Piper's life increasingly difficult. The only time it stops is when Dalton loses his memory. He forgets about the years of pain he has caused Piper. He forgets the cruel nickname he has given her and what everyone now calls her–because of him! At first he doesn't understand why she feels such contempt and hatred towards him but he soon learns what he did to deserve it. He cannot believe that he was such a monster towards this sweet and innocent girl. He was utterly detestable! He knows that he should give Piper her space and stay away from her but that is difficult because he is drawn to her. He craves her. And he is willing to do anything for her forgiveness and... love.
I couldn't stand Dalton. Some of the stuff he put Piper through, in my books, is unforgivable. He was cruel to her for such a stupid reason and found immense joy and ruining her life. He does change when he loses his memory and becomes a better person but I had a problem with determining if his feelings were authentic. I think I needed more proof to indicate that he had feelings or felt something else besides hatred towards Piper before the accident.
I was also happy that Piper didn't forgive him too easily. She didn't trust him. She was unbelievably strong to deal with what he put her through and even helped him when she didn't have to.
I would have liked to see more of their school life when they got together but I guess that's what makes you want to read the next book even though it's about a different couple. Although this book wasn't an easy read, it was consuming and I couldn't wait to read it.
February 20, 2020
It is hard for me to buy into the MCs love because I can’t get over the 12 years of torture the H put the h thru. She never told anyone about the abuse but she did write it in journals. She mentions he never laid a hand on her but if the bullying was so bad that she had to cut herself we are talking some mental health issues. She needs to be in therapy. What really sucks is that her dad is a freakin pediatrician.
I can believe that the h can forgive her tormentor (after some serious counseling) but I can not believe that she would fall in love with him because there is no way I believe she would ever be able to trust him fully. 12 years....since she was 5 years old, the H tormented her to the point that the h had to physically hurt herself to cope!!! H did this all because she ended up playing with another boy on the playground when she was 5 effing years old. The H is a narcissist. He did apologize several times but then he would also say it’s in the past, I don’t remember doing any of it, and can’t you just move past it. Hell to the fucking no you dickwad . These people need some serious help.
It’s a good thing he lost his memory.
I can believe that the h can forgive her tormentor (after some serious counseling) but I can not believe that she would fall in love with him because there is no way I believe she would ever be able to trust him fully. 12 years....since she was 5 years old, the H tormented her to the point that the h had to physically hurt herself to cope!!! H did this all because she ended up playing with another boy on the playground when she was 5 effing years old. The H is a narcissist. He did apologize several times but then he would also say it’s in the past, I don’t remember doing any of it, and can’t you just move past it. Hell to the fucking no you dickwad . These people need some serious help.
It’s a good thing he lost his memory.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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