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Devils of Sun Valley High #4
Cruel Promise
Grief is a fickle bi*ch, and I’ll do anything to escape her.
That includes sleeping with my brother’s very off-limits best friend.
Dominique Price wants me.
My body. My mind. My soul.
And he can have me.
Behind closed doors and away from prying eyes.
As long as helps me forget my pain, and promises to stay the hell away from my heart, I’ll be his.
And for a short while, he’ll be mine.
But, we’re playing a dangerous game. One whose rules are swiftly being ignored.
I want him. Need him. Might even be addicted to him.
Only, happily ever after was never in the cards for us.
And it looks like I'm the idiot who forgot that.
Cruel Promise is a new adult sports romance with enemies to lovers/bullying themes and is recommended for mature readers 17+
That includes sleeping with my brother’s very off-limits best friend.
Dominique Price wants me.
My body. My mind. My soul.
And he can have me.
Behind closed doors and away from prying eyes.
As long as helps me forget my pain, and promises to stay the hell away from my heart, I’ll be his.
And for a short while, he’ll be mine.
But, we’re playing a dangerous game. One whose rules are swiftly being ignored.
I want him. Need him. Might even be addicted to him.
Only, happily ever after was never in the cards for us.
And it looks like I'm the idiot who forgot that.
Cruel Promise is a new adult sports romance with enemies to lovers/bullying themes and is recommended for mature readers 17+
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 8, 2022
1385 people are currently reading
4332 people want to read
About the author
Daniela Romero
34 books1,029 followersDaniela Romero is a USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She enjoys writing steamy, new-adult and paranormal romance that delivers an emotional roller coaster sure to take your breath away.
Her books feature a diverse cast of characters with rich and vibrant cultures in an effort to effectively portray the world we all live in. One that is so beautifully colorful.
Daniela is a Bay Area native though she currently lives in Washington State with her sarcastic husband and their three tiny terrors.
In her free time, Daniela enjoys frequent naps, binge reading her favorite romance books, and is known to crochet while watching television because her ADHD brain can never do just one thing at a time.
Stop by her website to find all the fun and unique ways you can stalk her. And while you’re there you can check out some free bonus scenes from your favorite books, learn about her Patreon, order signed copies of her books, and swoon over her gorgeous alternative cover editions.
www.daniela-romero.com
You can join her newsletter by visiting
https://hi.switchy.io/VIP
Her books feature a diverse cast of characters with rich and vibrant cultures in an effort to effectively portray the world we all live in. One that is so beautifully colorful.
Daniela is a Bay Area native though she currently lives in Washington State with her sarcastic husband and their three tiny terrors.
In her free time, Daniela enjoys frequent naps, binge reading her favorite romance books, and is known to crochet while watching television because her ADHD brain can never do just one thing at a time.
Stop by her website to find all the fun and unique ways you can stalk her. And while you’re there you can check out some free bonus scenes from your favorite books, learn about her Patreon, order signed copies of her books, and swoon over her gorgeous alternative cover editions.
www.daniela-romero.com
You can join her newsletter by visiting
https://hi.switchy.io/VIP
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
July 17, 2022
**Sighs heavily**
This was not the book I thought it was going to be. We find Dom & Kasey exactly where we left them in Cruel Devil, with Kasey grieving and Dom trying to help her in the only way he thinks he can. By sleeping with her.
The push and pull between both Dom & Kasey has been spectacular in all the previous books. Their banter and sexy hate for each other has had me desperate for more but this book takes it in a completely different direction and I’m not sure I liked it.
Instead of the sassy, sexy, alpha characters we have grown to love, we got watered down versions of both. Kasey had completely lost her backbone and Dominique had lost his edge. I get Kasey is going through stuff as is Dom, (which we finally find out), BUT their was still no chemistry, or push and pull between the two. Instead of their usual banterrific selves, we got two people pussy footing around each other. Where was the angst? The drama? There was nada, except for Tamara and Dom’s parents but even that was lukewarm at best. Aarons reaction left a lot to be desired. I wanted him done with Dom after finding out. Especially given the past. But hey what do I know?? Don’t even get me started on the Deacon storyline. What was the point??? He was touted as a grabby, manhandling asshole in previous instalments. Where was that Deacon?
Aggghhhh anyway the more I rant, the more I realise I really didn’t love this book, and the final nail in the coffin??? THERE’S ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER TO THE KASEY/DOM SAGA ….
People out there will love it. I means Romero’s Devils and their crew are all amazing characters but Dom & Kasey we’re the most hyped up in all the books and fell short considerably for me, which is such a shame.
I think I’m tapping our here .. not sure I can do it again.
This was not the book I thought it was going to be. We find Dom & Kasey exactly where we left them in Cruel Devil, with Kasey grieving and Dom trying to help her in the only way he thinks he can. By sleeping with her.
The push and pull between both Dom & Kasey has been spectacular in all the previous books. Their banter and sexy hate for each other has had me desperate for more but this book takes it in a completely different direction and I’m not sure I liked it.
Instead of the sassy, sexy, alpha characters we have grown to love, we got watered down versions of both. Kasey had completely lost her backbone and Dominique had lost his edge. I get Kasey is going through stuff as is Dom, (which we finally find out), BUT their was still no chemistry, or push and pull between the two. Instead of their usual banterrific selves, we got two people pussy footing around each other. Where was the angst? The drama? There was nada, except for Tamara and Dom’s parents but even that was lukewarm at best. Aarons reaction left a lot to be desired. I wanted him done with Dom after finding out. Especially given the past. But hey what do I know?? Don’t even get me started on the Deacon storyline. What was the point??? He was touted as a grabby, manhandling asshole in previous instalments. Where was that Deacon?
Aggghhhh anyway the more I rant, the more I realise I really didn’t love this book, and the final nail in the coffin??? THERE’S ANOTHER CLIFFHANGER TO THE KASEY/DOM SAGA ….
People out there will love it. I means Romero’s Devils and their crew are all amazing characters but Dom & Kasey we’re the most hyped up in all the books and fell short considerably for me, which is such a shame.
I think I’m tapping our here .. not sure I can do it again.
July 11, 2022
“No. I’m not done with you yet, baby girl.”
And I am not done with this couple! So worth the wait! Daniela Romero’s Cruel Promise had my undivided attention from page one! Cruel Promise is a new adult sports romance with enemies to lovers/bullying themes told in dual POV, and has intense, explicit scenes. And Dominique Price is one savage beast in the best way!
What starts out as a way to cope with grief, covers the burning underlying reasons for the two to hook-up, given Kasey‘s longtime crush on her brother’s best friend, and Dom’s constant denial of his undeniable attraction to his BFFs baby sister. And in opportunity, comes pleasure…for so many firsts!
“I’ve taken enough of her firsts to know I won’t be satisfied until I’ve claimed them all.”
While I was hoping to get all my answers in this book, I am okay with the duet turning into a trilogy. Thus, this book ends on a cliffhanger. I love all the angst, heat, and possessiveness that comes along with Romero’s style, and have not been THIS excited for a new adult series in awhile. I know there was a glitch with the launch of this much anticipated release, but you will be happy with this next development for Dom and Kasey.
“You can run, baby girl. But you can’t hide. Not forever.”
Overall, the writing was engaging, character development was intriguing, and world building continues to get better and better! With so many questions that remain unanswered, I hope the author does not keep readers waiting too long for the final installment—Cruel Deliverance of Kasey and Dominique’s journey. And with Aaron’s story planned, and The Striker, I am here for them all! I reviewed an early copy voluntarily, and look forward to future novels by the author.
And I am not done with this couple! So worth the wait! Daniela Romero’s Cruel Promise had my undivided attention from page one! Cruel Promise is a new adult sports romance with enemies to lovers/bullying themes told in dual POV, and has intense, explicit scenes. And Dominique Price is one savage beast in the best way!
What starts out as a way to cope with grief, covers the burning underlying reasons for the two to hook-up, given Kasey‘s longtime crush on her brother’s best friend, and Dom’s constant denial of his undeniable attraction to his BFFs baby sister. And in opportunity, comes pleasure…for so many firsts!
“I’ve taken enough of her firsts to know I won’t be satisfied until I’ve claimed them all.”
While I was hoping to get all my answers in this book, I am okay with the duet turning into a trilogy. Thus, this book ends on a cliffhanger. I love all the angst, heat, and possessiveness that comes along with Romero’s style, and have not been THIS excited for a new adult series in awhile. I know there was a glitch with the launch of this much anticipated release, but you will be happy with this next development for Dom and Kasey.
“You can run, baby girl. But you can’t hide. Not forever.”
Overall, the writing was engaging, character development was intriguing, and world building continues to get better and better! With so many questions that remain unanswered, I hope the author does not keep readers waiting too long for the final installment—Cruel Deliverance of Kasey and Dominique’s journey. And with Aaron’s story planned, and The Striker, I am here for them all! I reviewed an early copy voluntarily, and look forward to future novels by the author.
August 27, 2023
Repetitive
How this is being dragged on for 3 books I do not know. Every chapter is the same. This book had no variation from the first; same scenes different words. Wash, rinse, repeat. Only read this book because it was like watching an accident that you can’t look away from. Gonna go ahead and assume the third book is them moving, having lots of arguments about their relationship, a cheating/miscommunication scandal and then an HEA. Might have been better if this was one book.
How this is being dragged on for 3 books I do not know. Every chapter is the same. This book had no variation from the first; same scenes different words. Wash, rinse, repeat. Only read this book because it was like watching an accident that you can’t look away from. Gonna go ahead and assume the third book is them moving, having lots of arguments about their relationship, a cheating/miscommunication scandal and then an HEA. Might have been better if this was one book.
June 10, 2023
3⭐️
*Same review for the 3rd& 4th books (1st & 2nd books in the trilogy about Dom & Kasey)*.
This was ok. I feel like this could of been one book though not spread over 3 parts (yes 3 because at the end of book one there is a few chapters from the FMC and her friend Deacon which didn’t need to be there RBH), then I get to the end of the 2nd book and find out their story isn’t finished but continuing on in another book - which I prob won’t be reading. This has so much potential and if it was rolled into one book then it would of been a hit.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: 5th in series (2nd in a trilogy?).
TROPES: M/F new adult, college, brothers best friend, enemies to lovers, sports (NFL)
SIZE: 304 (last page) Kindle pages.
CHARACTERS: Dom (21) & Kasey (18).
PLOT: 📚📚📚📚/5
ROMANCE: ❤️❤️❤️❤️/5
SPICE/STEAM: 🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
DARKNESS/TRIGGERS: 😈😈/5 (Grief, death of parent, side character PTSD).
⚠️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
*Same review for the 3rd& 4th books (1st & 2nd books in the trilogy about Dom & Kasey)*.
This was ok. I feel like this could of been one book though not spread over 3 parts (yes 3 because at the end of book one there is a few chapters from the FMC and her friend Deacon which didn’t need to be there RBH), then I get to the end of the 2nd book and find out their story isn’t finished but continuing on in another book - which I prob won’t be reading. This has so much potential and if it was rolled into one book then it would of been a hit.
POV: Dual, 1st person.
SERIES or STANDALONE: 5th in series (2nd in a trilogy?).
TROPES: M/F new adult, college, brothers best friend, enemies to lovers, sports (NFL)
SIZE: 304 (last page) Kindle pages.
CHARACTERS: Dom (21) & Kasey (18).
PLOT: 📚📚📚📚/5
ROMANCE: ❤️❤️❤️❤️/5
SPICE/STEAM: 🌶🌶🌶🌶/5
DARKNESS/TRIGGERS: 😈😈/5 (Grief, death of parent, side character PTSD).
⚠️ My bookshelves can contain spoilers.
July 12, 2022
Kasey and Doms story was so good but I’m going to go crazy until the next one after how this one ended! I’m all about Dom and looking forward to seeing what’s happening next
July 15, 2022
Quick Summary: Secret love affair, extreme family drama, & an unknown future
My Review:
Cruel Promise by Daniela Romero is book four in the Devils of Sun Valley series. It is an enemies with benefits forbidden love story, featuring a hypersexual bad boy-good guy QB and a green, newly "nose opened" eighteen-year old hybrid high schooler-college freshman. This story is intense, angsty, and brutally intimate.
The Characters and the Conflict:
After losing a key figure in her life, K goes to extreme measures to numb herself and to avoid dealing with her grief. Her solace is found in the arms of her secret crush, the one person who only seems to see her as the younger sibling of his close friend. The problem is now that he's awakened her sexual appetite, all bets are off and she will take what she wants. Where is all of this frenemies with benefits leading?
D's hands off/no touching approach to dealing with K, his roommate's sister, worked well until it didn't. He has taken all of her firsts, and now he wants more. Can he have it? His answer is yes. Unfortunately, they had an agreement to stay on the low. What happens now that he's caught feelings?
The Family Drama:
D's parents want to run his life. They have always sought to force his hand, even if that meant going to extreme measures. They would never go for his relationship (if that's what it is) with K. What will they do when they find out about her?
K's brother has set some hard limits for what is good enough for his sister, and it isn't his friend. How dare D go behind his back and add his sister's name to his long list of conquests!
D's brother? Where does this guy get off trying to come for his girl?! Who does he think he is?
The Cliffhanger:
School? Football? Family? K? The future? What is it that D really wants? What is it that K really wants?
The Final Say: This book was totally raw. It dealt with a lot of issues and presented a friends to lovers dilemma that could lead to an unexpected end. Of course, readers won't find out what that end is until the next book in this couple's trilogy.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: +/-
Audience: +/- NA
Warning: Sexual violence ("brutal intimacy")
A digital ARC of this title was made available to me by the author and publisher via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own and have not been influenced by the aforementioned in any way.
My Review:
Cruel Promise by Daniela Romero is book four in the Devils of Sun Valley series. It is an enemies with benefits forbidden love story, featuring a hypersexual bad boy-good guy QB and a green, newly "nose opened" eighteen-year old hybrid high schooler-college freshman. This story is intense, angsty, and brutally intimate.
The Characters and the Conflict:
After losing a key figure in her life, K goes to extreme measures to numb herself and to avoid dealing with her grief. Her solace is found in the arms of her secret crush, the one person who only seems to see her as the younger sibling of his close friend. The problem is now that he's awakened her sexual appetite, all bets are off and she will take what she wants. Where is all of this frenemies with benefits leading?
D's hands off/no touching approach to dealing with K, his roommate's sister, worked well until it didn't. He has taken all of her firsts, and now he wants more. Can he have it? His answer is yes. Unfortunately, they had an agreement to stay on the low. What happens now that he's caught feelings?
The Family Drama:
D's parents want to run his life. They have always sought to force his hand, even if that meant going to extreme measures. They would never go for his relationship (if that's what it is) with K. What will they do when they find out about her?
K's brother has set some hard limits for what is good enough for his sister, and it isn't his friend. How dare D go behind his back and add his sister's name to his long list of conquests!
D's brother? Where does this guy get off trying to come for his girl?! Who does he think he is?
The Cliffhanger:
School? Football? Family? K? The future? What is it that D really wants? What is it that K really wants?
The Final Say: This book was totally raw. It dealt with a lot of issues and presented a friends to lovers dilemma that could lead to an unexpected end. Of course, readers won't find out what that end is until the next book in this couple's trilogy.
Rating: 3/5
Recommend: +/-
Audience: +/- NA
Warning: Sexual violence ("brutal intimacy")
A digital ARC of this title was made available to me by the author and publisher via NetGalley. The words I have shared are my own and have not been influenced by the aforementioned in any way.
July 10, 2022
Rating- 3.3 ✨
I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Okay, I am ngl, I liked this book, not as much as the first one, but I really found it interesting. The one plot twist I didn't see coming was what made this book go to a rounding off in rating. The ending too, would have thrown my phone if Kasey had decided anything but that.
It was a college romance and best friend's sister trope
Dom is an ass, let's face it. I did like him in the first book, but here he was an ass to presume everything will be fine. No love it is not. Talk to her, do not use one thing alone to distract her!!! He better make it up for everything.
Kasey was so broken that we feel so sad for her, yet she found a way to annoy me. But later on she got better her character arc was good in this book. She has a lot of making up as well, but not as much as Dom.
Their relationship is messed up, but which one isn't? I just hope they get their HEA which a major character development for the male lead.
Smut lovers you are gonna love the ones in this book. It is spicy af as far as I read and the ones I skipped were not to my liking or taste. But from the bits and pieces I read it was hot!!!
The one that saved me from anymore despair was Deacon and Kasey's friendship, gahhh I loved them. I want them to be a couple, but then think, nope, it is best that they remain friends. The plot twist y'all, had me going on.
I have mixed feelings for this book and the couple, but am I eager to see how their chapter ends? Heck yes. I hope that is the last book as well. Never thought we would be getting a trilogy but I am up for it.
Thanks Greys Promo for the ARC.
I was provided an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Okay, I am ngl, I liked this book, not as much as the first one, but I really found it interesting. The one plot twist I didn't see coming was what made this book go to a rounding off in rating. The ending too, would have thrown my phone if Kasey had decided anything but that.
It was a college romance and best friend's sister trope
Dom is an ass, let's face it. I did like him in the first book, but here he was an ass to presume everything will be fine. No love it is not. Talk to her, do not use one thing alone to distract her!!! He better make it up for everything.
Kasey was so broken that we feel so sad for her, yet she found a way to annoy me. But later on she got better her character arc was good in this book. She has a lot of making up as well, but not as much as Dom.
Their relationship is messed up, but which one isn't? I just hope they get their HEA which a major character development for the male lead.
Smut lovers you are gonna love the ones in this book. It is spicy af as far as I read and the ones I skipped were not to my liking or taste. But from the bits and pieces I read it was hot!!!
The one that saved me from anymore despair was Deacon and Kasey's friendship, gahhh I loved them. I want them to be a couple, but then think, nope, it is best that they remain friends. The plot twist y'all, had me going on.
I have mixed feelings for this book and the couple, but am I eager to see how their chapter ends? Heck yes. I hope that is the last book as well. Never thought we would be getting a trilogy but I am up for it.
Thanks Greys Promo for the ARC.
March 20, 2025
Alltså vad hände?
Men alltså va?
Såhär huvudkaraktärerna e typ så ytliga, om jag ska beskriva de så e typ han bara avundsjuk o typ kär i Kasey.
Kasey e ju sådär typ sexgalen HAHHA men ändå slay tjejen. Men vet liksom inte va jag ska säga mer om hennes karaktär i denna bok. Första boken då va hon ju liksom ändå en karaktär med en personlighet.
Aja hur som haver är min favvo karaktär Deacon - alltså IKON. Han e så jäkla skön o rolig, han ställer upp och kan ta en hint men visar ändå vart han står. Skit rolig grabb hahahah (blundar mina ögon för hans klädstil)
Och sen ska boken sluta med att den inte ens är slut utan det ska vara en triologi URSÄKTA MIG MEN VADÅ EN BOK TILL?
Ugh kan de inte bara komma till saken
Eller ioförsig så finns de en del grejer som lär ske o ju lite taggad på visa saker som nu kommer ske. De va ju några plottwist som ändå va bra.
Hoppas att dominic står emot sin familj och att de börjar bli lite mer karaktär i personerna
Men alltså va?
Såhär huvudkaraktärerna e typ så ytliga, om jag ska beskriva de så e typ han bara avundsjuk o typ kär i Kasey.
Kasey e ju sådär typ sexgalen HAHHA men ändå slay tjejen. Men vet liksom inte va jag ska säga mer om hennes karaktär i denna bok. Första boken då va hon ju liksom ändå en karaktär med en personlighet.
Aja hur som haver är min favvo karaktär Deacon - alltså IKON. Han e så jäkla skön o rolig, han ställer upp och kan ta en hint men visar ändå vart han står. Skit rolig grabb hahahah (blundar mina ögon för hans klädstil)
Och sen ska boken sluta med att den inte ens är slut utan det ska vara en triologi URSÄKTA MIG MEN VADÅ EN BOK TILL?
Ugh kan de inte bara komma till saken
Eller ioförsig så finns de en del grejer som lär ske o ju lite taggad på visa saker som nu kommer ske. De va ju några plottwist som ändå va bra.
Hoppas att dominic står emot sin familj och att de börjar bli lite mer karaktär i personerna
July 25, 2022
“Kasey is a drug I desperately need to quit.”
this was my first read in this series, probably should’ve read the books prior however i didn’t find it difficult to follow the story at all. will definitely read the rest of the devils of sun valley high series. the characters were likable, i like kaseys character she was cute in the way she acted & was not one of those arrogant girls, she showed vulnerability in her character. i also like Dominique’s character he played the possessive bf well (touch her & die). deacon was a likable character, how he reacted & help kasey with the predicament she was in near the end was just a true friend.
“Get ready. I’m picking you up, and that asshole can eat crow when he sees you as my date.”
the spicy scenes aligned & made sense it wasn’t just randomly thrown in the book & with repetitiveness.
this was my first read in this series, probably should’ve read the books prior however i didn’t find it difficult to follow the story at all. will definitely read the rest of the devils of sun valley high series. the characters were likable, i like kaseys character she was cute in the way she acted & was not one of those arrogant girls, she showed vulnerability in her character. i also like Dominique’s character he played the possessive bf well (touch her & die). deacon was a likable character, how he reacted & help kasey with the predicament she was in near the end was just a true friend.
“Get ready. I’m picking you up, and that asshole can eat crow when he sees you as my date.”
the spicy scenes aligned & made sense it wasn’t just randomly thrown in the book & with repetitiveness.
April 15, 2025
DNF
I got 15% through this book before I knew this book would be a waste of my time. We already had book 3 where we learned how much they hate each other and how much of an “asshole” she thinks he is, so why did it jump straight back into it at the start of this book. It got to a point where every time I read “we hate each other” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes.. I gave myself a headache.
Kasey is just so immature and manipulative. She stomped her feet and went in a pout every time she was told no.
I just couldn’t see how they could have an actual healthy relationship together since they “can’t stand” each other.
I liked Deacon in the last one though, I’d be more onboard with her dating him😂
I’m gutted because I really enjoyed book 1 and 2.
I got 15% through this book before I knew this book would be a waste of my time. We already had book 3 where we learned how much they hate each other and how much of an “asshole” she thinks he is, so why did it jump straight back into it at the start of this book. It got to a point where every time I read “we hate each other” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes.. I gave myself a headache.
Kasey is just so immature and manipulative. She stomped her feet and went in a pout every time she was told no.
I just couldn’t see how they could have an actual healthy relationship together since they “can’t stand” each other.
I liked Deacon in the last one though, I’d be more onboard with her dating him😂
I’m gutted because I really enjoyed book 1 and 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2022
After reading Cruel Devil, I couldn't wait to get my hands on Cruel Promise. I couldn't wait to see how Dominique and Kasey's story will continue. It was everything and more!
From the very beginning of the story, Kasey instantly captured my heart. That vulnerable side of her that she tries to mask with sassyness and indifference... She feels real!
And Dominique, a boy who knows what he wants but is afraid to act on it. His family has is all mapped out for him and he hates his future already.
Throughout the day they act like enemies, and at night they crave each other. They can hide their feelings, but when the night comes, all bets are off. The way this author writes, it's so easy to get swept into the story and to feel their need, the despair.
With so many barriers in their way, could they possibly make it? I can't wait to find out!
From the very beginning of the story, Kasey instantly captured my heart. That vulnerable side of her that she tries to mask with sassyness and indifference... She feels real!
And Dominique, a boy who knows what he wants but is afraid to act on it. His family has is all mapped out for him and he hates his future already.
Throughout the day they act like enemies, and at night they crave each other. They can hide their feelings, but when the night comes, all bets are off. The way this author writes, it's so easy to get swept into the story and to feel their need, the despair.
With so many barriers in their way, could they possibly make it? I can't wait to find out!
July 11, 2022
I was given an advance readers copy of this book and have decided to write a voluntary honest review. Oh wow this author new to me and I'm obessed with this series and most of the guys. I love Dom and Rome and Aaron. But also I have thing for Deaken and I know what his story was going to be a felt it! I can't wait for the other book i need more i hope it's not a long wait!
July 15, 2022
Great book, hate cliff hangers
The book was great. But personally I hate cliff hangers. What is wrong with ONE book. Dom and Kasey are going on 3 books. Ridiculous!! Once this series is done (because I'm invested having been on this journey since the beginning) I won't be reading any more from this author.
The book was great. But personally I hate cliff hangers. What is wrong with ONE book. Dom and Kasey are going on 3 books. Ridiculous!! Once this series is done (because I'm invested having been on this journey since the beginning) I won't be reading any more from this author.
July 25, 2022
Cruel Promise
Hmm... there were moments that were really good. But not enough to make it 5🌟. For some reason this one just missed the mark. I'll definitely be here for book 5 as I have enjoyed this series overall.
Hmm... there were moments that were really good. But not enough to make it 5🌟. For some reason this one just missed the mark. I'll definitely be here for book 5 as I have enjoyed this series overall.
September 7, 2023
quanto desespero pra convencer um leitor que racismo reverso existe
September 6, 2024
Its the way this book also ended on a cliffhanger and thats how i found out it was actually a trilogy when i expected it to be one book like the previous books in the series, interconnected standalones….
August 17, 2023
So a few other reviews stating just how I felt, I was expecting more ngl. We find the MCs exactly where we left then, boning each others bones as a coping mechanism for the FMC. Now someone might say that it is unfair to comment on how toxic that is given the fact that this couple is on of the most toxic ones I have read in a while. We get a plot twist about Deacon, which okay? It felt like it was thought at that moment I didn't feel like we had any foreshadowing about it. Also her brother finds out about them in an awkward kind of way but just brushes it off my saying that if Dom is serious about her then she will make his life a living hell... um okay? Anticlimactic at best. The spice was okay, tw there is an@! involved if you don't feel comfortable with that - it goes into a pretty heavy detailing. I am curious as to how the real thing will play out between the MCs so I will be probably reading the 3rd book of their story as well.
November 21, 2022
Cruel Promise is the second book to Cruel Devil. I thought we were going to get the ending of the story between Dominique and Kasey, but instead it will be continuing into a third book, which I was disappointed to see. I enjoyed Cruel Devil more than this one but I still enjoyed this book too. I think it is because I found this to much like the previous one. I do plan on reading the third instalment as I still want to find out what happens.
July 17, 2023
still not complete - 3rd book in trilogy still to come
I didn’t realize the was going to be a third book for this couple, my fault for assuming a duet. There’s no mention of a release date for the third yet. Wouldn’t have started this set if I had known in advance. Probably won’t bother to read it when it comes. I’m getting pretty tired of the way Dominique manhandles the h all the time, esp rough bedroom scenes. He totally freaked when Deacon in the first book accidentally grabbed her, but now it’s okay for him to leave bruises? There’s too much explicit sex that is not balanced with solid plot action. I don’t mind explicit scenes, but give me some plot to keep the story progressing at a good pace please.
I didn’t realize the was going to be a third book for this couple, my fault for assuming a duet. There’s no mention of a release date for the third yet. Wouldn’t have started this set if I had known in advance. Probably won’t bother to read it when it comes. I’m getting pretty tired of the way Dominique manhandles the h all the time, esp rough bedroom scenes. He totally freaked when Deacon in the first book accidentally grabbed her, but now it’s okay for him to leave bruises? There’s too much explicit sex that is not balanced with solid plot action. I don’t mind explicit scenes, but give me some plot to keep the story progressing at a good pace please.
July 19, 2022
Oof, yeah I was very underwhelmed by everything about this book.
Where was the fighting between Dom and Aaron? Where was the fire and anger at? Where was the “stay away from my fing sister!” at? They’ve had full blown fights before but yet , over his sis, he was like “you’re a jerk for sleeping with my sis but I’m cool with it you ahole” and then they kissed and made up.
It was hit and miss with the drama and angst between Kasey and Dom. Only time Kaseys fire came out was during their bedroom scenes. She was all crying and emotional the rest of the book. I know she’s a teen but that author wrote her as a mid 20 year old so I expected the same thing in this book as book 1.
The most drama there was, was between Dom, his mom, and Tamara. Even that was meh at best.
I wanted so much more of everything! Ends on cliffhanger and it’s kind of lame.
Where was the fighting between Dom and Aaron? Where was the fire and anger at? Where was the “stay away from my fing sister!” at? They’ve had full blown fights before but yet , over his sis, he was like “you’re a jerk for sleeping with my sis but I’m cool with it you ahole” and then they kissed and made up.
It was hit and miss with the drama and angst between Kasey and Dom. Only time Kaseys fire came out was during their bedroom scenes. She was all crying and emotional the rest of the book. I know she’s a teen but that author wrote her as a mid 20 year old so I expected the same thing in this book as book 1.
The most drama there was, was between Dom, his mom, and Tamara. Even that was meh at best.
I wanted so much more of everything! Ends on cliffhanger and it’s kind of lame.
July 18, 2022
This is the continuation of Kasey and Dom’s story it’s a emotional roller coaster ride of twists and turns secrets and some new revelations I really enjoyed it and can’t wait till the next book especially after that ending!
March 13, 2025
I read the first chapter and just knew this would be a waste of my time, so I skimmed the rest.
First of all, this book is pointless—nothing important happens. It’s just the two MCs fucking, then being jealous because the other person is around other people, and then they fuck again, and then the book ends with the MMC finally realizing that he might love her. So this book should not exist, in my opinion. This could easily be a duology instead (preferably just one book, because then I would already be done with their story and I wouldn’t be writing this review right now).
Second of all, the two MCs are horrible people, and I very strongly dislike them—Kasey is just such an egotistical and immature FMC—all she thinks about is herself and what she wants, which is having sex with Dom. And I also just hate that she uses sex as a coping mechanism for her grief over her mother’s death? Like, Dom tried to stop having sex with her, and she spiraled out of control?? Girl, just fucking take responsibility for yourself for once. And maybe think about your brother? Because it really doesn’t sit right with me that Dom cares and worries more for Aaron than Kasey does, and she’s his sister. And Dom? He’s just as horrible. He’s incredibly arrogant, and he thinks very, very, very little of the FMC—constantly saying degrading things about her to their friends. Like, there’s a scene where his friends mention that they thought there was something going on between him and Kasey, and Dom gets really offended and asks why they would think that as if it’s completely shocking to him. And he constantly thinks that she has a shit personality, and it’s mentioned multiple times in his inner monologue that the only thing he’s interested in is her ‘hot body’... I’m sorry, but this is book 2 in a trilogy? Why the fuck is he still talking shit about her?
Third of all, the whole thing about their relationship being forbidden because she’s Dom’s best friend’s little sister? Just grow up. I got it in the last book because back then, she was still a minor, but now she’s 18, so there really, REALLY is no problem at all, okay. If they want to have sex, just fucking have sex. Why do they need to keep it a secret? Why would they keep it from her brother? I just don’t get it, and I think it’s fucking pathetic, because if you really want to write a forbidden romance, then please come up with something better than "brother’s best friend", because that’s just childish if that is what makes it forbidden.
And even though this is book 2 out of 3, and book 3 comes out sometime this summer, I’m just gonna pretend that Dom and Kasey’s story ended here—with him asking for a chance at something real between him and Kasey. Because I will absolutely not waste my time reading a book about these two just fucking around and figuring out how to make a real relationship work while she’s still in college and he’s out playing football somewhere.
First of all, this book is pointless—nothing important happens. It’s just the two MCs fucking, then being jealous because the other person is around other people, and then they fuck again, and then the book ends with the MMC finally realizing that he might love her. So this book should not exist, in my opinion. This could easily be a duology instead (preferably just one book, because then I would already be done with their story and I wouldn’t be writing this review right now).
Second of all, the two MCs are horrible people, and I very strongly dislike them—Kasey is just such an egotistical and immature FMC—all she thinks about is herself and what she wants, which is having sex with Dom. And I also just hate that she uses sex as a coping mechanism for her grief over her mother’s death? Like, Dom tried to stop having sex with her, and she spiraled out of control?? Girl, just fucking take responsibility for yourself for once. And maybe think about your brother? Because it really doesn’t sit right with me that Dom cares and worries more for Aaron than Kasey does, and she’s his sister. And Dom? He’s just as horrible. He’s incredibly arrogant, and he thinks very, very, very little of the FMC—constantly saying degrading things about her to their friends. Like, there’s a scene where his friends mention that they thought there was something going on between him and Kasey, and Dom gets really offended and asks why they would think that as if it’s completely shocking to him. And he constantly thinks that she has a shit personality, and it’s mentioned multiple times in his inner monologue that the only thing he’s interested in is her ‘hot body’... I’m sorry, but this is book 2 in a trilogy? Why the fuck is he still talking shit about her?
Third of all, the whole thing about their relationship being forbidden because she’s Dom’s best friend’s little sister? Just grow up. I got it in the last book because back then, she was still a minor, but now she’s 18, so there really, REALLY is no problem at all, okay. If they want to have sex, just fucking have sex. Why do they need to keep it a secret? Why would they keep it from her brother? I just don’t get it, and I think it’s fucking pathetic, because if you really want to write a forbidden romance, then please come up with something better than "brother’s best friend", because that’s just childish if that is what makes it forbidden.
And even though this is book 2 out of 3, and book 3 comes out sometime this summer, I’m just gonna pretend that Dom and Kasey’s story ended here—with him asking for a chance at something real between him and Kasey. Because I will absolutely not waste my time reading a book about these two just fucking around and figuring out how to make a real relationship work while she’s still in college and he’s out playing football somewhere.
July 15, 2022
Dom and Kasey are fire and ice, punishment and praise, a possessive AF alpha-hole and a heroine that excels in pushing all his buttons, a combination that makes Cruel Promise Romero’s hottest book to date.
Cruel Promise is book 2 of Kasey and Dom’s story, and it cannot be read as a standalone.
Kasey’s been through something devastating. She needs time and distractions until she’s ready to face her grief. In her own time and in her own way, so in the meantime, she and Dom come to an agreement that works for both of them.
The chemistry, along with the INSANElY explosive tension between Kasey and Dom, has become an entity all on its own. It may have been that there had always been something wafting in the air between them that they continued to ignore, but with one touch there was no turning back. They were becoming consumed by one another in the most devilishly wicked ways.
Cruel Devil seemed to set the stage for Dom and Kasey going from enemies who co-existed to lovers who decided to give in to the attraction between them. Cruel Promise is more intense physically between the two, but there are many more layers of emotion, not just between them, but individually too. I shed a few tears with Kasey on several occasions because, as someone who lost my mother around the same age, many of her emotions were familiar to me. It adds a uniqueness to the connection you feel with characters that are living a nightmare you’ve lived through too.
Kasey’s sassy stubbornness and Dom’s alpha-holeness were the perfect combination for back and forth banter that acted as foreplay and created some of the hottest scenes I’ve read this year.
Cruel Promise plucked me from reality in the first words, and inside the Sun Valley High world is where I stayed until I reached the end with a whispered “wtf”.
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Cruel Promise is book 2 of Kasey and Dom’s story, and it cannot be read as a standalone.
Kasey’s been through something devastating. She needs time and distractions until she’s ready to face her grief. In her own time and in her own way, so in the meantime, she and Dom come to an agreement that works for both of them.
The chemistry, along with the INSANElY explosive tension between Kasey and Dom, has become an entity all on its own. It may have been that there had always been something wafting in the air between them that they continued to ignore, but with one touch there was no turning back. They were becoming consumed by one another in the most devilishly wicked ways.
Cruel Devil seemed to set the stage for Dom and Kasey going from enemies who co-existed to lovers who decided to give in to the attraction between them. Cruel Promise is more intense physically between the two, but there are many more layers of emotion, not just between them, but individually too. I shed a few tears with Kasey on several occasions because, as someone who lost my mother around the same age, many of her emotions were familiar to me. It adds a uniqueness to the connection you feel with characters that are living a nightmare you’ve lived through too.
Kasey’s sassy stubbornness and Dom’s alpha-holeness were the perfect combination for back and forth banter that acted as foreplay and created some of the hottest scenes I’ve read this year.
Cruel Promise plucked me from reality in the first words, and inside the Sun Valley High world is where I stayed until I reached the end with a whispered “wtf”.
Website | Amazon | Facebook | Instagram
July 15, 2022
The story of Dominique and Kelsey continues, and this is still a full-on emotional roller-coaster, this plot twist got to me, I was not expecting it, these characters are amazing, they just can't deny their feelings, but with so many things in their way things seems impossible, I got hooked from the start, I was so looking forward and thought I would get to wrap up their story, instead, I got another cliffy and I am now dying to get the next book.
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July 8, 2022
Picking up right after Cruel Devil, Kasey is grieving the loss of her mother by losing herself in Dominique. These two already did not have the healthiest of relationships. Kasey is the little sister of Dom's best friend Aaron and for years Kasey and Dominique have fought like cats and dogs. But when Aaron had to fly down to retrieve their mother's remains Kasey's grief leaned on Dominique and their relationship turned intimate. Now as Cruel Promise begins their relationship gets a bit more complicated when Aaron returns and neither Kasey nor Dom know how to end what they began.
I enjoyed the more intimate aspects of this book, just for the simple fact that we get more of Dominique and Kasey together. Now I'm not specifically talking about the smexy times, which are super hot BTW, but we get more of their internal struggles on their relationship each other. There are battles coming at them from every angle, but since they are not in a real relationship, they both internalize everything so they both fight thoughts on their relationships with family, the struggles that will come after college, the pressures from all kinds of outside factors like coming from different races and social classes. There is a lot that should keep these two apart which is why they try to keep things casual and yet something inside both of them won't allow them to cut ties.
Cruel Promise is an unputdownable book with chapter after chapter of non-stop emotional or steamy good reading. It's also not over quite yet, there is still more to come. Dominique and Kasey still have more challenges to face will they be together when all is said and done?
I enjoyed the more intimate aspects of this book, just for the simple fact that we get more of Dominique and Kasey together. Now I'm not specifically talking about the smexy times, which are super hot BTW, but we get more of their internal struggles on their relationship each other. There are battles coming at them from every angle, but since they are not in a real relationship, they both internalize everything so they both fight thoughts on their relationships with family, the struggles that will come after college, the pressures from all kinds of outside factors like coming from different races and social classes. There is a lot that should keep these two apart which is why they try to keep things casual and yet something inside both of them won't allow them to cut ties.
Cruel Promise is an unputdownable book with chapter after chapter of non-stop emotional or steamy good reading. It's also not over quite yet, there is still more to come. Dominique and Kasey still have more challenges to face will they be together when all is said and done?
July 19, 2022
Ok read, but a cliffhanger is not necessary.
I read the entire series, including Dom and Kasey. The last couple of books end up with a cliffhanger; not one book is completed except for Emilio and Bi and Roman and Allie. I forgot that a while ago, I started with the series but did not like that all her books about couples ended with cliffhangers, so I gave up reading the author’s book. They are not that great and easily forgettable. The reason for two stars is while I liked Dom and Kasey as secondary characters in the other books, as a couple, not so much. I like Dom; he is more mature and ready to accept what arises between them, but Kasey, I like her less. I do not recognize Kasey in this book as if the author is describing a different character from the previous. The author describes Kasey as a petulant child and immature. I would have expected more of a fun bittering play among Dom and Kasey as foreplay, as it happened in high school, but it is not happening in these books. Kasey comes out as being mean, spoiled, and rude. It isn't enjoyable. Most of the time, it was frustrating reading the books, and I skimmed through a lot. All the author’s endings are cut short and rushed to a cliffhanger. I am not sure I want to finish reading the series; the books are ordinary and quickly forgotten by the time the other books are out; I probably forget about reading the subsequent books. Authors that play around with too much cliffhanger are causing themselves more damage as an author to be following or worth waiting upon the release of their books. I lost interest in this author, which I did the first time, so I will for the second time.
I read the entire series, including Dom and Kasey. The last couple of books end up with a cliffhanger; not one book is completed except for Emilio and Bi and Roman and Allie. I forgot that a while ago, I started with the series but did not like that all her books about couples ended with cliffhangers, so I gave up reading the author’s book. They are not that great and easily forgettable. The reason for two stars is while I liked Dom and Kasey as secondary characters in the other books, as a couple, not so much. I like Dom; he is more mature and ready to accept what arises between them, but Kasey, I like her less. I do not recognize Kasey in this book as if the author is describing a different character from the previous. The author describes Kasey as a petulant child and immature. I would have expected more of a fun bittering play among Dom and Kasey as foreplay, as it happened in high school, but it is not happening in these books. Kasey comes out as being mean, spoiled, and rude. It isn't enjoyable. Most of the time, it was frustrating reading the books, and I skimmed through a lot. All the author’s endings are cut short and rushed to a cliffhanger. I am not sure I want to finish reading the series; the books are ordinary and quickly forgotten by the time the other books are out; I probably forget about reading the subsequent books. Authors that play around with too much cliffhanger are causing themselves more damage as an author to be following or worth waiting upon the release of their books. I lost interest in this author, which I did the first time, so I will for the second time.
July 14, 2022
THE REVIEW FOR THE BOOK: Cruel Promise
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
AUTHOR: Daniela Romero
TROPE: Contemporary romance, college, best friends’ little sister, enemies to lovers
TYPE: Devils of Sun Valley High #4
MY RATING: 4.5 Stars
POV: Dual First Person
I’m been waiting for this book after the cliffhanger of the last book. Even though this is book #4 of the series, it continues off from the couple in book #3.
Dominique Price has always been forbidden. He’s her brother’s best friend. He was her tormenter all throughout high school and he’s 4 years older than her. When Kasey’s mom passes away, Dom does what he can to help her heal. Little did he know, helping her heal would mean welcoming her into his bed. The two of them enter into a sex only relationship. Kasey is using Dom as a balm to help her grieve. Dom knows that what he’s doing is wrong and nothing can become of their relationship but he can’t force himself to stop. There are expectations of him for when he graduates college in the spring. He’s going to have to take up the family business and work for his father. Football is about to become a distant memory. The last thing he should be doing is getting involved with his best friends’ little sister but he’s hooked.
This author did an amazing job of exploring race in relationships. Especially when she talks about Dom and his family. I absolutely loved this story and was a bit surprised it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. I’m excited to see what happens next for Dom and Kasey.
GENRE: Contemporary Romance
AUTHOR: Daniela Romero
TROPE: Contemporary romance, college, best friends’ little sister, enemies to lovers
TYPE: Devils of Sun Valley High #4
MY RATING: 4.5 Stars
POV: Dual First Person
I’m been waiting for this book after the cliffhanger of the last book. Even though this is book #4 of the series, it continues off from the couple in book #3.
Dominique Price has always been forbidden. He’s her brother’s best friend. He was her tormenter all throughout high school and he’s 4 years older than her. When Kasey’s mom passes away, Dom does what he can to help her heal. Little did he know, helping her heal would mean welcoming her into his bed. The two of them enter into a sex only relationship. Kasey is using Dom as a balm to help her grieve. Dom knows that what he’s doing is wrong and nothing can become of their relationship but he can’t force himself to stop. There are expectations of him for when he graduates college in the spring. He’s going to have to take up the family business and work for his father. Football is about to become a distant memory. The last thing he should be doing is getting involved with his best friends’ little sister but he’s hooked.
This author did an amazing job of exploring race in relationships. Especially when she talks about Dom and his family. I absolutely loved this story and was a bit surprised it ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. I’m excited to see what happens next for Dom and Kasey.
August 9, 2024
Ugh...
I loved this book! I, however, did not know that there was another book after this one!! Why do I do this to myself!? Better yet, why do authors do this to us!? They all must meet & plan this out. Sadists!! This is all in jest, so calm down.
This is more of the first, but I wonder why he wouldn't join when he could? (I'm trying not to give anything away.) If he did, he wouldn't have to worry about his parents. I mean yea they could bribe them to not take him, but if he is as good as they all say, then I would think they couldn't pay them enough. That he would make them more money than what they offer. They would only offer 1 buyout, whereas he would continue making them money. Surely, they would have figured that out, right?
Now, as for the rest of the story. She would only need to stay there until she got her diploma, so why not follow after? Doesn't he have to finish that year out, too? This is probably what the author meant by it adding more questions than answered. Here's to hoping I won't have to wait too long.
I would definitely recommend it, but only if you're ok with it ending in another cliffhanger. I don't care for people who leave bad reviews just because they're impatient & don't like cliffhangers. On to the next while I wait...
I loved this book! I, however, did not know that there was another book after this one!! Why do I do this to myself!? Better yet, why do authors do this to us!? They all must meet & plan this out. Sadists!! This is all in jest, so calm down.
This is more of the first, but I wonder why he wouldn't join when he could? (I'm trying not to give anything away.) If he did, he wouldn't have to worry about his parents. I mean yea they could bribe them to not take him, but if he is as good as they all say, then I would think they couldn't pay them enough. That he would make them more money than what they offer. They would only offer 1 buyout, whereas he would continue making them money. Surely, they would have figured that out, right?
Now, as for the rest of the story. She would only need to stay there until she got her diploma, so why not follow after? Doesn't he have to finish that year out, too? This is probably what the author meant by it adding more questions than answered. Here's to hoping I won't have to wait too long.
I would definitely recommend it, but only if you're ok with it ending in another cliffhanger. I don't care for people who leave bad reviews just because they're impatient & don't like cliffhangers. On to the next while I wait...
July 8, 2022
Dom and Kasey absolutely blindsided me in this story.
I knew it would be messy—they always have been—but I couldn't have expected half of the stuff that happened.
Their chemistry has always been off the charts—a frenemies to lovers type thing—and this book only solidified that what they were building was real.
While I am not always a fan of the possessive, over-the-top boyfriend, the way Dom went about it was hot. His desire for Kasey won out over rational thought time and time again, altering his life in ways you couldn't predict.
While Kasey has always had fire in her veins, she couldn't resist the pull—the feelings—either. Together, they just make sense.
Mrs Romero has, once again, left us hanging after a riveting and emotionally charged story.
The way she brought these two together, only to be thrown through a whirlwind of lies, betrayals...grief. It hurt my fragile heart.
I know there will be more trials that these two will face, but, I can't wait to read the rest of their story.
I'll be here, waiting, for the next instalment.
4.5 stars.
I knew it would be messy—they always have been—but I couldn't have expected half of the stuff that happened.
Their chemistry has always been off the charts—a frenemies to lovers type thing—and this book only solidified that what they were building was real.
While I am not always a fan of the possessive, over-the-top boyfriend, the way Dom went about it was hot. His desire for Kasey won out over rational thought time and time again, altering his life in ways you couldn't predict.
While Kasey has always had fire in her veins, she couldn't resist the pull—the feelings—either. Together, they just make sense.
Mrs Romero has, once again, left us hanging after a riveting and emotionally charged story.
The way she brought these two together, only to be thrown through a whirlwind of lies, betrayals...grief. It hurt my fragile heart.
I know there will be more trials that these two will face, but, I can't wait to read the rest of their story.
I'll be here, waiting, for the next instalment.
4.5 stars.
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