What do you think?
Rate this book
Clearwater University #1-3
Clearwater University: The Complete Series
“Your body is a killer," he murmurs. "Your face is a killer. Your fierce spirit is the worst of all. You were made to bring men to their knees.” They were my bullies once.
Three boys I hated more than anything.
They made my life hell for a year--until I escaped their cruelty when my dad's job moved us away.
I've never forgotten them though. Never forgotten what they did. And I know they haven't forgotten me.
But when I'm offered a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Clearwater University, I refuse to let old fears stop me from accepting.
Because I'm not the girl I used to be.
I'm stronger. Tougher.
Angrier.
And if West, Reese, and Trent think they can screw with me again... well.
We'll just see who breaks first.
This box set contains the complete Clearwater University series, a new adult reverse harem enemies-to-lovers/bully romance. It contains cursing and lots of steam.
Three boys I hated more than anything.
They made my life hell for a year--until I escaped their cruelty when my dad's job moved us away.
I've never forgotten them though. Never forgotten what they did. And I know they haven't forgotten me.
But when I'm offered a full-ride scholarship to the prestigious Clearwater University, I refuse to let old fears stop me from accepting.
Because I'm not the girl I used to be.
I'm stronger. Tougher.
Angrier.
And if West, Reese, and Trent think they can screw with me again... well.
We'll just see who breaks first.
This box set contains the complete Clearwater University series, a new adult reverse harem enemies-to-lovers/bully romance. It contains cursing and lots of steam.
648 pages, ebook
First published May 31, 2020
1047 people are currently reading
1393 people want to read
About the author
Eva Ashwood
49 books6,252 followersEva Ashwood has been a reader her whole life and a writer for several years. She loves telling stories of alpha males and the fierce women who bring them to their knees.
She's a sucker for reverse harem, bully romance, enemies to lovers, heroes who redeem themselves, and all the drama and passion of new adult love.
She's a sucker for reverse harem, bully romance, enemies to lovers, heroes who redeem themselves, and all the drama and passion of new adult love.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
November 23, 2022
Lies and misunderstandings!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌏
Character development: 😤😥😊🤩
The heroine: Emma - her mother died when she was 12 years old, her father moved them away from their home in Clearwater when she was 17. Now she is back and going to Clearwater University on a scholarship provided by her father’s company who enticed him to come back to work for them again. However, on her first day, she sees her three former bullies.
The Heroes: Trent, Reece, West (a.k.a. The Icons) - Trent is strong and the de facto leader of the three guys, Reece is easy going and the most empathetic of the group, and West is angry and works out in the gym to release his anger. He is now well muscled and hotter than ever.
The Story: Emma and The Icons used to be best friends, until all three of the guys became romantically interested in her and each of them asked her to go out with them. Emma had feelings for each of the guys and couldn’t choose between them, so she turned each of them down. From that time on they became her bullies who made her life a living hell until her father moved them away.
Emma has grown up in the intervening years and is determined to do well at Clearwater University and keep her scholarship and make something of herself. Even though the guys continue to say things to her and look at her like they hate her, she is determined to overcome and not be the same weak person she was in high school.
The bully trope is one of my favorites and I like a good reverse harem. In this one it seemed from the start there was something more going on that turned the guys against Emma than her just turning them down when they asked her out. The guys refer to her doing something bad to Trent in particular not just that she did the same thing to all of them, but whatever they think she did to Trent that justified them turning on her, Emma seems unaware of it.
We find out later what that event was, and it does seem bad enough for the guys to have turned against her. Though of course the bullying is a bit much no matter what they thought she had done. Later on when Trent finds out more about the situation that occurred in the past, instead of feeling like it wasn’t Emma’s fault, he draws some clearly outrageous conclusions and gets even more angry at her. Sometimes it seems that the writer is so determined to make a conflict that it gets so outrageous it is almost funny.
This book was told in multiple points of view via dual narration. The narrators were Leah Voysey and Gregory Salinas. Leah Voysey is a good narrator and has a voice that seemed age appropriate to Emma. Gregory Salinas also does a great job as the three guys. I enjoyed the narration and the story. The last book of the trilogy is a veritable smut fest, so I would have liked a little more story in that one, but overall it was pretty good.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
The following ratings are out of 5:
Narration: 🎙🎙🎙🎙
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌍🌏
Character development: 😤😥😊🤩
The heroine: Emma - her mother died when she was 12 years old, her father moved them away from their home in Clearwater when she was 17. Now she is back and going to Clearwater University on a scholarship provided by her father’s company who enticed him to come back to work for them again. However, on her first day, she sees her three former bullies.
The Heroes: Trent, Reece, West (a.k.a. The Icons) - Trent is strong and the de facto leader of the three guys, Reece is easy going and the most empathetic of the group, and West is angry and works out in the gym to release his anger. He is now well muscled and hotter than ever.
The Story: Emma and The Icons used to be best friends, until all three of the guys became romantically interested in her and each of them asked her to go out with them. Emma had feelings for each of the guys and couldn’t choose between them, so she turned each of them down. From that time on they became her bullies who made her life a living hell until her father moved them away.
Emma has grown up in the intervening years and is determined to do well at Clearwater University and keep her scholarship and make something of herself. Even though the guys continue to say things to her and look at her like they hate her, she is determined to overcome and not be the same weak person she was in high school.
The bully trope is one of my favorites and I like a good reverse harem. In this one it seemed from the start there was something more going on that turned the guys against Emma than her just turning them down when they asked her out. The guys refer to her doing something bad to Trent in particular not just that she did the same thing to all of them, but whatever they think she did to Trent that justified them turning on her, Emma seems unaware of it.
We find out later what that event was, and it does seem bad enough for the guys to have turned against her. Though of course the bullying is a bit much no matter what they thought she had done. Later on when Trent finds out more about the situation that occurred in the past, instead of feeling like it wasn’t Emma’s fault, he draws some clearly outrageous conclusions and gets even more angry at her. Sometimes it seems that the writer is so determined to make a conflict that it gets so outrageous it is almost funny.
This book was told in multiple points of view via dual narration. The narrators were Leah Voysey and Gregory Salinas. Leah Voysey is a good narrator and has a voice that seemed age appropriate to Emma. Gregory Salinas also does a great job as the three guys. I enjoyed the narration and the story. The last book of the trilogy is a veritable smut fest, so I would have liked a little more story in that one, but overall it was pretty good.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
April 7, 2021
Reverse harem doesn’t occur to them for quite a while!
Emma became best friends with three boys her sophomore year of high school. In her junior year, they turned on her and became her bullies. She and her father moved away but are back in town two years later. Emma starts college, and her tormentors are there and still hating her.
This one was different for several reasons:
1. The hate part of this hate to love goes on for quite a while, well into the second book. I’m more accustomed to the hate part ending much sooner, so that was a twist. And we still get sex scenes while the hate is still strong. So if you like hate sex, you’ll enjoy this.
2. The reverse harem or menage relationship idea doesn’t occur to the group for quite a while. In most of these, the characters are aware of the possibility from the start. Sometimes they know people in poly relationships. Sometimes at least one of the characters has read books like we are reading right now. But in Clearwater, they don’t realize it is a thing for quite a while and then don’t think it would work because –
3. The guys are competitive, jealous, and angry at each other for most of this. They have been best friends forever, but their relationship has been beaten down by what they have done to Emma. Most of the time, the guys are a team from the start. So I liked they we got some unusual twists here!
The writing was very good. It is long with the three novels together, but it was fast paced. I liked the characters, that the guys all had distinct personalities, and that they all grew over the course of the story.
I didn’t like that Trent’s reason for turning on Emma is immature. We know what it is early on, so I don’t think this is a spoiler. Trent thinks Emma told his father that they saw Trent’s mom kissing Emma’s dad. And this results in his parents getting divorced. By the time I was 16/17, I knew that marriages are complicated, and cheating is a symptom of greater issues. Trent’s anger at this small thing, even if true, seemed like an 8-10 year old’s perspective. And then, he gets even angrier when he finds out that Emma introduced his mother to her father at a school event. Why hadn’t Emma and the guys all introduced their parents around when they were still friends in high school? It seems very weird that their parents would let them hang out so much and be best friends without ever meeting their parents. We only see Emma’s dad and Trent’s mom, but they don’t seem like disconnected, neglectful parents. These are the type of parents that I believe would have insisted on meeting the parents of their kid’s friends. Even if not, they are treating the introduction of their parents as something unusual. Especially when the parents are at the same school event, you just would introduce them. So I had a difficult time suspending disbelief for this.
Another complaint I have is more difficult to talk about without spoilers. It’s the total 180 of a character that came out of nowhere. It felt like we didn’t get any lead in to this, like we suddenly need a villain, so we’ll change this character completely. I would have preferred more detail on the character and on their past actions, which would make this turnaround more natural and believable.
Because of these two things, I can only give this three stars. But if they won’t bother you as much as they did me, and you mostly want the hot sex scenes, you may enjoy this more than I did.
Contains many graphic sex scenes. Some are one-on-one and some are group. There is no cheating, scenes with Other People, or Other People drama. There is no non or dubious consent. So this is SAFE. No trigger warnings. Contains foul language.
It is well edited. I found 5 little errors.
Emma became best friends with three boys her sophomore year of high school. In her junior year, they turned on her and became her bullies. She and her father moved away but are back in town two years later. Emma starts college, and her tormentors are there and still hating her.
This one was different for several reasons:
1. The hate part of this hate to love goes on for quite a while, well into the second book. I’m more accustomed to the hate part ending much sooner, so that was a twist. And we still get sex scenes while the hate is still strong. So if you like hate sex, you’ll enjoy this.
2. The reverse harem or menage relationship idea doesn’t occur to the group for quite a while. In most of these, the characters are aware of the possibility from the start. Sometimes they know people in poly relationships. Sometimes at least one of the characters has read books like we are reading right now. But in Clearwater, they don’t realize it is a thing for quite a while and then don’t think it would work because –
3. The guys are competitive, jealous, and angry at each other for most of this. They have been best friends forever, but their relationship has been beaten down by what they have done to Emma. Most of the time, the guys are a team from the start. So I liked they we got some unusual twists here!
The writing was very good. It is long with the three novels together, but it was fast paced. I liked the characters, that the guys all had distinct personalities, and that they all grew over the course of the story.
I didn’t like that Trent’s reason for turning on Emma is immature. We know what it is early on, so I don’t think this is a spoiler. Trent thinks Emma told his father that they saw Trent’s mom kissing Emma’s dad. And this results in his parents getting divorced. By the time I was 16/17, I knew that marriages are complicated, and cheating is a symptom of greater issues. Trent’s anger at this small thing, even if true, seemed like an 8-10 year old’s perspective. And then, he gets even angrier when he finds out that Emma introduced his mother to her father at a school event. Why hadn’t Emma and the guys all introduced their parents around when they were still friends in high school? It seems very weird that their parents would let them hang out so much and be best friends without ever meeting their parents. We only see Emma’s dad and Trent’s mom, but they don’t seem like disconnected, neglectful parents. These are the type of parents that I believe would have insisted on meeting the parents of their kid’s friends. Even if not, they are treating the introduction of their parents as something unusual. Especially when the parents are at the same school event, you just would introduce them. So I had a difficult time suspending disbelief for this.
Another complaint I have is more difficult to talk about without spoilers. It’s the total 180 of a character that came out of nowhere. It felt like we didn’t get any lead in to this, like we suddenly need a villain, so we’ll change this character completely. I would have preferred more detail on the character and on their past actions, which would make this turnaround more natural and believable.
Because of these two things, I can only give this three stars. But if they won’t bother you as much as they did me, and you mostly want the hot sex scenes, you may enjoy this more than I did.
Contains many graphic sex scenes. Some are one-on-one and some are group. There is no cheating, scenes with Other People, or Other People drama. There is no non or dubious consent. So this is SAFE. No trigger warnings. Contains foul language.
It is well edited. I found 5 little errors.
October 3, 2021
The one with the awful hacker friend and jealously problem due to alpha males
April 10, 2022
Don’t get me wrong, I was entertained by this series, but there were a few things that made me cringe repeatedly. Some unexplained circumstances, under/overdeveloped character backgrounds, sections of the “story” (aka not really plot) that were repetitive and in turn sections of the actual plot that had SO much potential for more world-building or suspense or SOMETHING that was missing. I can’t necessarily put my finger on it, but that’s also who I’m not an author as a profession.
It was good… but it was that “je ne sais quoi” that ultimately decided to take my 3.25-3.5⭐️’s and round down. (The “round down” makes me cringe 🫣)
I don’t usually round down because I somehow feel guilty when being critical on a book I enjoyed for the most part… as if I’m disappointing the author somehow (if you’re reading this, it was enjoyable and I appreciate the work you put into your passion!)… but I must remember my intent isn’t vindictive and meant more as a critique to keep progressing as an artist.
… I got way too deep on that last paragraph. Just wanted to explain so I’m not misunderstood.
It was good… but it was that “je ne sais quoi” that ultimately decided to take my 3.25-3.5⭐️’s and round down. (The “round down” makes me cringe 🫣)
I don’t usually round down because I somehow feel guilty when being critical on a book I enjoyed for the most part… as if I’m disappointing the author somehow (if you’re reading this, it was enjoyable and I appreciate the work you put into your passion!)… but I must remember my intent isn’t vindictive and meant more as a critique to keep progressing as an artist.
… I got way too deep on that last paragraph. Just wanted to explain so I’m not misunderstood.
March 17, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5 stars
Eva Ashwood is a new to me author, and after reading a bully romance for the first time, I wanted to give an RH one a chance.
I'll admit I was a bit let down with this one.
Things I loved about this book:
1. The heroine didn't let them kick her down and keep her down. She kept fighting back.
2. They all did eventually come together, and when they did, it was insanely hot to read. They worked well together, had an amazing dynamic, and there was equality with each of them.
3. The roommate turning on the heroine and then hacking into all of their personal things was a really good twist that kept me engaged.
4. The sex scenes were fantastic. Honestly, it's the one thing that kept this from being a 3 star read for me. There was real chemistry between the characters.
Things I didn't like:
1. This all really could have been done in one book. There was a ton of miscommunication that became a bit annoying and repetitive as I continued to read. I began to skim about halfway through book one until they all basically called a truce in book two. If Trent had just taken two seconds to listen to everyone instead of acting like a child, this all could have been resolved quickly.
2. Reese and West have no real backbones. They follow Trent around like puppy dogs. Real friends stand up and speak out when their friend is being stupid. Instead, they were nothing but enablers.
3. She forgave them all WAY too easily. They ruined her high school career and almost destroyed her chance at college. In my opinion, there wasn't NEAR enough groveling from the male MCs.
4. It took basically most of this boxset for them to even come together in an RH. I have never read anything as slow burn in that aspect as this book.
Eva Ashwood is a new to me author, and after reading a bully romance for the first time, I wanted to give an RH one a chance.
I'll admit I was a bit let down with this one.
Things I loved about this book:
1. The heroine didn't let them kick her down and keep her down. She kept fighting back.
2. They all did eventually come together, and when they did, it was insanely hot to read. They worked well together, had an amazing dynamic, and there was equality with each of them.
3. The roommate turning on the heroine and then hacking into all of their personal things was a really good twist that kept me engaged.
4. The sex scenes were fantastic. Honestly, it's the one thing that kept this from being a 3 star read for me. There was real chemistry between the characters.
Things I didn't like:
1. This all really could have been done in one book. There was a ton of miscommunication that became a bit annoying and repetitive as I continued to read. I began to skim about halfway through book one until they all basically called a truce in book two. If Trent had just taken two seconds to listen to everyone instead of acting like a child, this all could have been resolved quickly.
2. Reese and West have no real backbones. They follow Trent around like puppy dogs. Real friends stand up and speak out when their friend is being stupid. Instead, they were nothing but enablers.
3. She forgave them all WAY too easily. They ruined her high school career and almost destroyed her chance at college. In my opinion, there wasn't NEAR enough groveling from the male MCs.
4. It took basically most of this boxset for them to even come together in an RH. I have never read anything as slow burn in that aspect as this book.
May 31, 2022
I loved this series. It does have triggers for some but its well written the characters are epic n their growth is phenomenal. This is a reverse harem with alphaholes
August 15, 2021
i felt like this is the reason i don´t like bully romance, it´s because of these childish and lame reasons to start bully the FMC. Like do you just want to have a reason to hate the girl?? is that it and ofc it´s one dude that get´s hurt t(he most) and decides to start hating and bulling the poor fmc and his besties ofc is standing by his side even tho they think he´s maybe in the wrong.... sigh
what i hate also in these bully books is that when the girl is is promising good fucking revenge for the guys fucking up her life it´s not coming. No "big" revenge, i want a bloody big revenge on the guys to give them some pain back. After that their redemption can start, but first revenge in my opinion
The book was not bad in general , i just get so pissed at these childish reasons to start the bulling and the pure hate.
what i hate also in these bully books is that when the girl is is promising good fucking revenge for the guys fucking up her life it´s not coming. No "big" revenge, i want a bloody big revenge on the guys to give them some pain back. After that their redemption can start, but first revenge in my opinion
The book was not bad in general , i just get so pissed at these childish reasons to start the bulling and the pure hate.
February 27, 2022
Holy wow!
Another brilliant series by Eva Ashwood
Emma, Trent, Reese and West were all the best of friends in high school, until there dynamics changed, causing them to turn there back on Emma and make her life a living hell, and then she left town.
Only to return for University but on a scholarship, and the last three people she expected to see were Trent, Reese and West, and all of what they did to her comes flooding back to them, giving them the opportunity to continue there tirade on her, only this time she is more prepared, stronger than ever she knows she won’t let them get the better of her.
Emma makes friends, settles into a comfortable life at the University, but Trent still has it out for Emma, blames her for the destruction of his parents marriage, and then when they both find out their parents are dating each other it puts a scanner in the works.
But Trent isn’t settling for anything less, he takes it up a notch, only he doesn’t realise Emma has overheard what they have planned, and she concocts a plan of her own, it takes off, only Trent takes it further causing her to get expelled from University, Emma takes her own revenge by getting back at him, upping the ante for the both of them.
Emma has hit a low, but she is determined not to let it affect her, but in her plot to get back at the boys, she enlists the help,of her roommate, only for it to backfire on her, and when the come to her aid, she has a hard time believing them.
Trent goes to visit his father, he just never expected to walk a play with clarity and an understanding about his parents marriage, and what his future could look like if he continued that way.
Trent, Reese and West end up in a crossroads over Emma, all conflicted about the parts they have played in her life. Reese and West begin to see sense, Trent taking that little bit longer, when they discover the truth that it wasn’t Emma who was responsible, but a spurned ex seeking revenge against Trent.
But then Emma’s ex roommate takes it up a notch, intent on ruining their lives after they trapped her into getting caught and having her arrested and sent away. It doesn’t stop there and it has them all on edge, but finally they get the justice that they deserve and most importantly they finally accept there unconventional relationship and each all admit there love for Emma which she reciprocates.
This book has it all romance, love, friendship, bullying, madness, mayhem, revenge, mild-violence, twists, turns, truths and betrayal.
This book will take you on a wild ride, and will have you turning page after page. This book had me from beginning to end. This author knows how to write and I’ll be coming back for more.
And those MF, MFM and MFMM s*x scenes were steamy and off the charts and had all the feels.
That ending though, plus the bonus chapter, was bittersweet and a happily ever after well deserved by all.
Another brilliant series by Eva Ashwood
Emma, Trent, Reese and West were all the best of friends in high school, until there dynamics changed, causing them to turn there back on Emma and make her life a living hell, and then she left town.
Only to return for University but on a scholarship, and the last three people she expected to see were Trent, Reese and West, and all of what they did to her comes flooding back to them, giving them the opportunity to continue there tirade on her, only this time she is more prepared, stronger than ever she knows she won’t let them get the better of her.
Emma makes friends, settles into a comfortable life at the University, but Trent still has it out for Emma, blames her for the destruction of his parents marriage, and then when they both find out their parents are dating each other it puts a scanner in the works.
But Trent isn’t settling for anything less, he takes it up a notch, only he doesn’t realise Emma has overheard what they have planned, and she concocts a plan of her own, it takes off, only Trent takes it further causing her to get expelled from University, Emma takes her own revenge by getting back at him, upping the ante for the both of them.
Emma has hit a low, but she is determined not to let it affect her, but in her plot to get back at the boys, she enlists the help,of her roommate, only for it to backfire on her, and when the come to her aid, she has a hard time believing them.
Trent goes to visit his father, he just never expected to walk a play with clarity and an understanding about his parents marriage, and what his future could look like if he continued that way.
Trent, Reese and West end up in a crossroads over Emma, all conflicted about the parts they have played in her life. Reese and West begin to see sense, Trent taking that little bit longer, when they discover the truth that it wasn’t Emma who was responsible, but a spurned ex seeking revenge against Trent.
But then Emma’s ex roommate takes it up a notch, intent on ruining their lives after they trapped her into getting caught and having her arrested and sent away. It doesn’t stop there and it has them all on edge, but finally they get the justice that they deserve and most importantly they finally accept there unconventional relationship and each all admit there love for Emma which she reciprocates.
This book has it all romance, love, friendship, bullying, madness, mayhem, revenge, mild-violence, twists, turns, truths and betrayal.
This book will take you on a wild ride, and will have you turning page after page. This book had me from beginning to end. This author knows how to write and I’ll be coming back for more.
And those MF, MFM and MFMM s*x scenes were steamy and off the charts and had all the feels.
That ending though, plus the bonus chapter, was bittersweet and a happily ever after well deserved by all.
June 2, 2020
Eva Ashwood has combined the entire Clearwater trilogy into this boxset- so all you cliffhanger haters can relax, you get the entire series, right here. Eva creates such engaging new adult/bully theme stories, and here we also have a reverse harem relationship.
This is the story of Emma and her bullies, Trest, West, and Reese, the “Icons” and her former friends. There is dynamic emotional and romantic tension, and the bullying is definitely harsh at first, though certainly not the darkest/worst I’ve read. Twists abound, the relationship dynamics change as we get to know our characters, and major drama, misunderstandings, and angst permeates the entire series- the kind you love in new adult stories. The first and 2nd books end with some pretty climatic moments, although I can’t call them cliffhangers anymore because this is one set now! Our heroine Emma can be frustrating at times, to be honest, but she’s also trying to figure out who she is and survive the challenges of her life and bullying. And you want to hit the guys for much of the first book. The bullying is not short lived here- even when romantic feelings come into play, we have that push-pull love-hate dynamic woven throughout- all that yummy angst. But, that is why I love bully romances- the angsty, and then the sweet, sweet redemption when the bullies' truths come out and they try to make amends. And, as the book goes on, we start to understand the guys more and more, which I needed more of early on in trying to understand their true motivations. And, Emma is no push-over.
There is a lot of drama, and the steam definitely gets stronger as the books progress (mostly in the 3rd)- and rest assured, we get an HEA. A wild, fun, angsty ride!
This is the story of Emma and her bullies, Trest, West, and Reese, the “Icons” and her former friends. There is dynamic emotional and romantic tension, and the bullying is definitely harsh at first, though certainly not the darkest/worst I’ve read. Twists abound, the relationship dynamics change as we get to know our characters, and major drama, misunderstandings, and angst permeates the entire series- the kind you love in new adult stories. The first and 2nd books end with some pretty climatic moments, although I can’t call them cliffhangers anymore because this is one set now! Our heroine Emma can be frustrating at times, to be honest, but she’s also trying to figure out who she is and survive the challenges of her life and bullying. And you want to hit the guys for much of the first book. The bullying is not short lived here- even when romantic feelings come into play, we have that push-pull love-hate dynamic woven throughout- all that yummy angst. But, that is why I love bully romances- the angsty, and then the sweet, sweet redemption when the bullies' truths come out and they try to make amends. And, as the book goes on, we start to understand the guys more and more, which I needed more of early on in trying to understand their true motivations. And, Emma is no push-over.
There is a lot of drama, and the steam definitely gets stronger as the books progress (mostly in the 3rd)- and rest assured, we get an HEA. A wild, fun, angsty ride!
September 8, 2020
I like other series from this author, this not so much
So for me this is a 3 star book. But I feel as that is purely personal preference, and if the good reviews sound go. Give it a go.
My issues;
I feel like the back story could have been better developed. Maybe started off in highschool and then come back in at college. I understand the events of their relationships and changes were during college. However this made me feel the characters as more surface, I feel the most like this about West. He seems like the one I could like the most, but he comes across as such and afterthought. I couldn't develop a connection to any of them and I couldnt root for them to get together.
2. I have actually found a taste for bully romances. But the ones I like, I feel as though the love interests bully as a form of protection. This wasn't the case. It was pure venom. I couldn't get behind the character getting with them because if this. It was completely unforgivable.
3. The conflict with the "mean" girl was contrived. It came completely put of left field. Seriously it would have been better served as a friendship with better relationship development between the love interest to get past the uncalled for cruelty.
All in all, a definite miss for me. The writing was smooth enough that I did finish, I just didn't throw the book down.
So for me this is a 3 star book. But I feel as that is purely personal preference, and if the good reviews sound go. Give it a go.
My issues;
I feel like the back story could have been better developed. Maybe started off in highschool and then come back in at college. I understand the events of their relationships and changes were during college. However this made me feel the characters as more surface, I feel the most like this about West. He seems like the one I could like the most, but he comes across as such and afterthought. I couldn't develop a connection to any of them and I couldnt root for them to get together.
2. I have actually found a taste for bully romances. But the ones I like, I feel as though the love interests bully as a form of protection. This wasn't the case. It was pure venom. I couldn't get behind the character getting with them because if this. It was completely unforgivable.
3. The conflict with the "mean" girl was contrived. It came completely put of left field. Seriously it would have been better served as a friendship with better relationship development between the love interest to get past the uncalled for cruelty.
All in all, a definite miss for me. The writing was smooth enough that I did finish, I just didn't throw the book down.
June 9, 2024
Clearwater University
The Clearwater University series by Eva Ashwood is an enthralling journey of reverse harem romance, replete with bully themes. Book one, Who Breaks First, introduces us to Emma who returns to her hometown and the tormenting trio - Trent, Reece, and West. The complex dynamics between past friends turned enemies adds a captivating layer to the narrative. The tension and angst are palpable throughout the book which ends on a cliffhanger that I couldn’t see coming.
Book two, Who Laughs Last picks up right where its predecessor left off. Here we witness Emma's resilience as she seeks revenge against the Icons. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives which enriches the narrative and gives depth to all characters involved.
The final book in this riveting series is Who Falls Harder where everything comes full circle. The plot unravels completely and the relationship dynamics reach their peak. Emma's character growth is commendable as she takes control of her destiny rather than being a mere puppet in the hands of others.
In summary, Eva Ashwood’s Clearwater University series is an engaging blend of romance, drama, and suspense that kept me hooked from start to finish. It's definitely a series I would love to revisit!
The Clearwater University series by Eva Ashwood is an enthralling journey of reverse harem romance, replete with bully themes. Book one, Who Breaks First, introduces us to Emma who returns to her hometown and the tormenting trio - Trent, Reece, and West. The complex dynamics between past friends turned enemies adds a captivating layer to the narrative. The tension and angst are palpable throughout the book which ends on a cliffhanger that I couldn’t see coming.
Book two, Who Laughs Last picks up right where its predecessor left off. Here we witness Emma's resilience as she seeks revenge against the Icons. The story unfolds through multiple perspectives which enriches the narrative and gives depth to all characters involved.
The final book in this riveting series is Who Falls Harder where everything comes full circle. The plot unravels completely and the relationship dynamics reach their peak. Emma's character growth is commendable as she takes control of her destiny rather than being a mere puppet in the hands of others.
In summary, Eva Ashwood’s Clearwater University series is an engaging blend of romance, drama, and suspense that kept me hooked from start to finish. It's definitely a series I would love to revisit!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2024
First of all let me start off by saying I love this author and the storylines. There aren’t too many good poly books. Most are just about sex and don’t have much a plot. This series was good but not one of my top favorites from this author. I think because the characters annoyed me so bad. Best friend or not how do you just blindly follow someone. No one thought to double check the facts especially since all of them liked the same girl. That made absolutely no sense. The back and forth between them all was just ridiculous. It got better for me towards the last book because things settled down for everyone. But even still the female lead should have destroyed them all after what they did to her whether they fixed it or not. There are some lines you just don’t cross and they crossed several of them. And don’t even get me started on the main guy. I wanted to rip his head off because he refused to listen to anyone. I’m all for a little drama and all but that was just over the top and utterly ridiculous!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2022
It’s Messy and emotional but that’s why I believe it
Most reverse harem books it’s hard for me to believe that multiple alpha male characters would be ok with the idea of sharing. However the author did an amazing job at making me believe the characters feelings and their turmoil. The author did amazing in creating such a wide variety of scenes from heartbreaking to angry to loving to holy Batman that’s a SPICY SCENE! However, I will say the plot seemed like an after thought and wasn’t enhanced in anyway by the spicy scenes. But the spicy scenes most definitely enhanced the connection and emotions in each character. The author also does multiple POV so that’s amazing to read what each character is thinking. This most definitely would go in my reread pile and for my library. Only reason I gave a 3 is because I wasn’t impressed with the world building and plot. However, characters, emotional impact and wanting it for my library all scored a solid 4.
Most reverse harem books it’s hard for me to believe that multiple alpha male characters would be ok with the idea of sharing. However the author did an amazing job at making me believe the characters feelings and their turmoil. The author did amazing in creating such a wide variety of scenes from heartbreaking to angry to loving to holy Batman that’s a SPICY SCENE! However, I will say the plot seemed like an after thought and wasn’t enhanced in anyway by the spicy scenes. But the spicy scenes most definitely enhanced the connection and emotions in each character. The author also does multiple POV so that’s amazing to read what each character is thinking. This most definitely would go in my reread pile and for my library. Only reason I gave a 3 is because I wasn’t impressed with the world building and plot. However, characters, emotional impact and wanting it for my library all scored a solid 4.
April 7, 2022
Clearwater University
Who Breaks First is book one in the Clearwater University series. A reverse harem romance with bully themes
Emma returns back to her home town after being offered a full ride to Clearwater University. And walks straight into Trent, Reece and West the Icons. They used to be best friends until they weren’t and they mercilessly tormented her for a year until she fled.
I can’t say no to a bully romance with enemies to lovers and second chance vibes. But this trio manage to ruin their happiness at every turn.
They seek their revenge for Emma’s actions….I thought at first this was just miscommunication. But it’s so much deeper and the drama of it creates the best tension and angst.
Multiple POV’s also make this read so much more interesting. With getting not only the present situations but flashes to their pasts and moments that lead to Emma’s torment.
That cliffhanger…While I definitely saw a cliffhanger coming in this kind of context, I definitely didn’t see it happening this way.
This book is definitely a great start to the series!
———————
Who Laughs Last is book two in the Clearwater University series. A reverse harem romance with bully themes
Thankfully this book picks right up at that cliffhanger from Who Breaks First. But while the hits keep coming for Emma she is not taking it lying down. Revenge is a dish best served cold and the Icons are in Emma's sights.
Same as the first book I really enjoy the multiple POV's with Emma and the Icons. It builds this story more and seeing the different narrative gives all the perspectives of the situation.
Character development and growth is slowly coming through here. This book while not heavy on it's own full subplot it branches on the main trilogy plot and builds to that fantastic cliffhanger we got hit with.
———————
Who Falls Harder is book three in the Clearwater University series. A reverse harem romance with bully themes.
This book being the final book is of course where everything comes to a head, not just the plot fully unravelling but the harem finally develops completely. I'm a big fan of the medium burn moments where everything builds, but where it all falls into place is absolute perfection for reverse harems. The relationship becomes more than just part of the plot.
I enjoyed seeing the character growth throughout this series, both for the Icons in ways but mainly Emma. She started to take control of her own journey rather than just taking what was dished out or hiding behind the boys.
Who Breaks First is book one in the Clearwater University series. A reverse harem romance with bully themes
Emma returns back to her home town after being offered a full ride to Clearwater University. And walks straight into Trent, Reece and West the Icons. They used to be best friends until they weren’t and they mercilessly tormented her for a year until she fled.
I can’t say no to a bully romance with enemies to lovers and second chance vibes. But this trio manage to ruin their happiness at every turn.
They seek their revenge for Emma’s actions….I thought at first this was just miscommunication. But it’s so much deeper and the drama of it creates the best tension and angst.
Multiple POV’s also make this read so much more interesting. With getting not only the present situations but flashes to their pasts and moments that lead to Emma’s torment.
That cliffhanger…While I definitely saw a cliffhanger coming in this kind of context, I definitely didn’t see it happening this way.
This book is definitely a great start to the series!
———————
Who Laughs Last is book two in the Clearwater University series. A reverse harem romance with bully themes
Thankfully this book picks right up at that cliffhanger from Who Breaks First. But while the hits keep coming for Emma she is not taking it lying down. Revenge is a dish best served cold and the Icons are in Emma's sights.
Same as the first book I really enjoy the multiple POV's with Emma and the Icons. It builds this story more and seeing the different narrative gives all the perspectives of the situation.
Character development and growth is slowly coming through here. This book while not heavy on it's own full subplot it branches on the main trilogy plot and builds to that fantastic cliffhanger we got hit with.
———————
Who Falls Harder is book three in the Clearwater University series. A reverse harem romance with bully themes.
This book being the final book is of course where everything comes to a head, not just the plot fully unravelling but the harem finally develops completely. I'm a big fan of the medium burn moments where everything builds, but where it all falls into place is absolute perfection for reverse harems. The relationship becomes more than just part of the plot.
I enjoyed seeing the character growth throughout this series, both for the Icons in ways but mainly Emma. She started to take control of her own journey rather than just taking what was dished out or hiding behind the boys.
September 9, 2021
Good series
I enjoyed this book and all of the characters. Emma, Trent, Reese and West were best friends until the end of sophomore year. Based on a lack of information, Trent turns on Emma and the trio make her life a living hell. Unfortunately, the bullying was not deserved and not something she even did. Emma became this strong, take charge, kickass woman in the face of Trent, Reese and West's bullying. An unlikely third bully appears and pulls the four of them together. Luckily the boys (and yes I say boys because they are crazy immature in my opinion) redeem themselves and do what they can to protect her in the end.
I enjoyed this book and all of the characters. Emma, Trent, Reese and West were best friends until the end of sophomore year. Based on a lack of information, Trent turns on Emma and the trio make her life a living hell. Unfortunately, the bullying was not deserved and not something she even did. Emma became this strong, take charge, kickass woman in the face of Trent, Reese and West's bullying. An unlikely third bully appears and pulls the four of them together. Luckily the boys (and yes I say boys because they are crazy immature in my opinion) redeem themselves and do what they can to protect her in the end.
November 22, 2021
Reese, Trent and West individually take hot to the next level but collectively this particular trio have the power to blow the readers mind.
However all three men totally have issues that brought them down a few notches for me, even though by the book collections end they had successfully redeemed themselves for Emma's sake.
This read like the four main characters were acting out their parts in a play sometimes and at others just wanted to tell all four to finally grow up and get over themselves already!
Not bad but just took too long to resolve everything between the four in a relatable way for me.
However all three men totally have issues that brought them down a few notches for me, even though by the book collections end they had successfully redeemed themselves for Emma's sake.
This read like the four main characters were acting out their parts in a play sometimes and at others just wanted to tell all four to finally grow up and get over themselves already!
Not bad but just took too long to resolve everything between the four in a relatable way for me.
February 10, 2023
DNF
Didn’t really like it. There were a few things I’ve noticed that’s just so common with these tropes.
The first, is the multiple POVs that are just repetitive and don’t really add anything.
The second, is The Excuse. The reason they are mean and cut her out is just stupid. Like it’s the weakest excuse ever. It combines Stupid Excuse and Miscommunication trope and nope. I hate that. It’s lazy writing and lack of actually caring about the plot.
I also found it pretty gross how they were attracted to each other so much. It wasn’t hot or sexy and kinda gross. Also their parents were dating!!!! Soooo gross. Im not about that step-sibling love. Nope.
Didn’t really like it. There were a few things I’ve noticed that’s just so common with these tropes.
The first, is the multiple POVs that are just repetitive and don’t really add anything.
The second, is The Excuse. The reason they are mean and cut her out is just stupid. Like it’s the weakest excuse ever. It combines Stupid Excuse and Miscommunication trope and nope. I hate that. It’s lazy writing and lack of actually caring about the plot.
I also found it pretty gross how they were attracted to each other so much. It wasn’t hot or sexy and kinda gross. Also their parents were dating!!!! Soooo gross. Im not about that step-sibling love. Nope.
June 2, 2020
I was so excited to jump into this college aged Bully boxset and it did not disappoint! So much happens throughout the entire series that I was left on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading. It was good to see a FMC who doesn't let the guys bring her down and keeps fighting. The push and pull between Emma and her guys was addicting. I adored seeing them get their HEA after dealing with so much drama outside and inside the relationships. Fantastic series! I look forward to reading more stories by Eva Ashwood.
February 7, 2022
Emma, Trent, Reese and Wests story....
This starts off with Emma starting at a new University due to her dad getting a new job, they've moved back to where she went to High School for a while, and where she was tormented by 3 boys who originally she was beat friends with. But suddenly they turn on her and even when she comes face-to-face with them again, she still doesn't know what went wrong!
Friends to enemies, to friends, to bigger enemies, to allies and eventually lovers...a decent read. 3.5
This starts off with Emma starting at a new University due to her dad getting a new job, they've moved back to where she went to High School for a while, and where she was tormented by 3 boys who originally she was beat friends with. But suddenly they turn on her and even when she comes face-to-face with them again, she still doesn't know what went wrong!
Friends to enemies, to friends, to bigger enemies, to allies and eventually lovers...a decent read. 3.5
August 9, 2022
What a roller coaster ride of twists and turns
Emma comes back to go to Clearwater University, and all is good until The Icons. Reese, Trent, and West who were her friends until they turned on her and became her bullies. She hasn’t seen them in a few years and they start back up again, but underneath it all is intense attraction and passion. So many twists and turns. Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing Book. The character development is top notch. I read the collection, which is also a trilogy. First time reading this author definitely not my last.
Emma comes back to go to Clearwater University, and all is good until The Icons. Reese, Trent, and West who were her friends until they turned on her and became her bullies. She hasn’t seen them in a few years and they start back up again, but underneath it all is intense attraction and passion. So many twists and turns. Great characters and storyline Highly recommended Amazing Book. The character development is top notch. I read the collection, which is also a trilogy. First time reading this author definitely not my last.
November 11, 2024
I don’t know the start date for this series because it has taken me months to finish the audiobook. This series is good, but by the third book I struggled to keep going. The spicy scenes were 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5 but the rest of it was difficult for me to get into. And the amount of miscommunication and trouble that could have been solved my a conversation! I get the drama makes for a good book, but it was at a level that irritated me. I’ve read other books by this author and loved them! This series just wasn’t it, but I did finish them so there’s that.
August 22, 2021
Wow!!!
Totally submerged myself in this series !! Wow…. Just wow!
Fantastic read with fantastic characters.
The story was fantastic, and had me laughing aloud and crying all the way through. I was heartbroken for her, and then elated for her. It’s just that good that I could not put it down.
Definitely an adult read no under 18’s but if you like reverse harem story’s this is great!!!
Totally submerged myself in this series !! Wow…. Just wow!
Fantastic read with fantastic characters.
The story was fantastic, and had me laughing aloud and crying all the way through. I was heartbroken for her, and then elated for her. It’s just that good that I could not put it down.
Definitely an adult read no under 18’s but if you like reverse harem story’s this is great!!!
August 30, 2021
A Very Steamy Hate to Love Story
A story of friendships gone wrong, revenge, hate, and love. I liked that the story ended on a happy note, since much of the book was struggle, hatred, bullying, and revenge. I did not really like the bullying here though. It was very hard to like Trent, Reese, and West in this story, especially the friends, enemies, to lovers thing going on here. If you like reverse harem books about alpha men you love to hate, then this would appeal to you.
A story of friendships gone wrong, revenge, hate, and love. I liked that the story ended on a happy note, since much of the book was struggle, hatred, bullying, and revenge. I did not really like the bullying here though. It was very hard to like Trent, Reese, and West in this story, especially the friends, enemies, to lovers thing going on here. If you like reverse harem books about alpha men you love to hate, then this would appeal to you.
October 6, 2021
Hard to enjoy
Got this set free. Probably a good thing because three stars is generous.
Problem 1: slow pace. I get the 'slow burn' approach but this takes it too far.
Problem 2: abuse is not bullying, it's abuse.
Problem 3: a strong woman does not get revenge and become sexually involved with her abusers.
This is in the "girls like bullies" genre and, unless this fits you, give this a pass.
Got this set free. Probably a good thing because three stars is generous.
Problem 1: slow pace. I get the 'slow burn' approach but this takes it too far.
Problem 2: abuse is not bullying, it's abuse.
Problem 3: a strong woman does not get revenge and become sexually involved with her abusers.
This is in the "girls like bullies" genre and, unless this fits you, give this a pass.
February 17, 2022
I almost didn’t finish this series..
Okay so… I love Eva! I usually devour all of her books. But the first book in this series has me wanting to scream at FC she was weak and not willing to stand up for herself. But by the end of the series I was way more understanding. So once again Eva Ashwood drew me in with a hook of a book and had me up all night reading. Can’t wait to get into my next series.
Okay so… I love Eva! I usually devour all of her books. But the first book in this series has me wanting to scream at FC she was weak and not willing to stand up for herself. But by the end of the series I was way more understanding. So once again Eva Ashwood drew me in with a hook of a book and had me up all night reading. Can’t wait to get into my next series.
January 23, 2023
Soooo….
That happened. Eva Ashwood is my favorite RH/why choose author. I think the way she is able to individualize each relationship and bring them together is bar none. I’m not a huge fan of YA or Academy plot lines but I love her other work so much I had to read. While I think the bad in this storyline and relationship dragged on a lil bit long, and I wish we actually got more of the after with he crew, it was definitely a good read.
That happened. Eva Ashwood is my favorite RH/why choose author. I think the way she is able to individualize each relationship and bring them together is bar none. I’m not a huge fan of YA or Academy plot lines but I love her other work so much I had to read. While I think the bad in this storyline and relationship dragged on a lil bit long, and I wish we actually got more of the after with he crew, it was definitely a good read.
June 11, 2020
Enticing drama, hot steamy sex, intense revenge. At one point all the boys have their "Come to Jesus" moment when they realize their wrongdoing and faults. The individual hate sex was intense, but the RH sex, whoah... it's 🔥. Clearwater University series does not disappoint. Loved all books in the series were in one place! I may have to read it again, just to reabsorb all the hotness going on.
August 6, 2021
Unusual love
Friends then enemies and eventually lovers, making life work and bonds that last. Lots of trouble and heartache on the journey. A foursome is hard to accept, it seems to work for them, sex is a great part of the relationship but the Alpha in them all is made to protect at all costs. A threesome would be more believable but the friends don’t want it any other way.
Friends then enemies and eventually lovers, making life work and bonds that last. Lots of trouble and heartache on the journey. A foursome is hard to accept, it seems to work for them, sex is a great part of the relationship but the Alpha in them all is made to protect at all costs. A threesome would be more believable but the friends don’t want it any other way.
August 8, 2021
Frustrating at times
Disclaimer there is bullying. This is my first reverse harem series and wow. I was so irritated and angry with all of them. The betrayal I didn't see coming and then the coming together I wasn't sure it would happen but when it did, I don't know if it was curiosity or disbelief. I don't know how I could trust anyone ever again if I was Emma.
Disclaimer there is bullying. This is my first reverse harem series and wow. I was so irritated and angry with all of them. The betrayal I didn't see coming and then the coming together I wasn't sure it would happen but when it did, I don't know if it was curiosity or disbelief. I don't know how I could trust anyone ever again if I was Emma.
August 23, 2021
Hot as hell !!
What an awesome story , I binge read all 3 books and loved them, some parts were quite hard to read and I wanted to smack all 3 guys at one point or another but it was worth it to get to their happy ending and let's just say , the steam .........it was hot hot hot !!
What an awesome story , I binge read all 3 books and loved them, some parts were quite hard to read and I wanted to smack all 3 guys at one point or another but it was worth it to get to their happy ending and let's just say , the steam .........it was hot hot hot !!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews