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Willow Heights Prep Academy: The Exile #4
Broken Doll
The Dolces broke me, but it doesn’t matter.
They shattered my body and soul, and when they were done, they left me for dead. But it doesn’t matter.
I lived, but that doesn’t matter, either. I don't care.
I don’t care about anything. Not even the one person I thought would never betray me, that I could always count on, the one person who always had my back.
Me.
I don’t matter.
Royal taught me that.
Now, a stranger tends me like the flowers in his garden, as if his touch can make me bloom again. He plays with me like a doll he pulled from the trash. He doesn’t want to fix me. He wants to turn me into someone else.
It doesn’t matter. I don’t care who I am.
So I let him.
***This is book 4 in a series and cannot be read on its own. If you need a trigger warning, do not read this book.***
They shattered my body and soul, and when they were done, they left me for dead. But it doesn’t matter.
I lived, but that doesn’t matter, either. I don't care.
I don’t care about anything. Not even the one person I thought would never betray me, that I could always count on, the one person who always had my back.
Me.
I don’t matter.
Royal taught me that.
Now, a stranger tends me like the flowers in his garden, as if his touch can make me bloom again. He plays with me like a doll he pulled from the trash. He doesn’t want to fix me. He wants to turn me into someone else.
It doesn’t matter. I don’t care who I am.
So I let him.
***This is book 4 in a series and cannot be read on its own. If you need a trigger warning, do not read this book.***
445 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2021
664 people are currently reading
1640 people want to read
About the author
Selena .
37 books1,308 followersYou might not guess it when you pick up your first Selena novel, but Selena is a true romantic. She writes gritty, realistic New Adult contemporary novels with characters you'll love to hate and hate to love.
If reading about teens behaving badly upsets you, steer clear because these are full of drama, angst, fighting, drugs, sex, and rock & roll. There will be times you want to throw your Kindle. There will be lying, cheating, bullying, backstabbing, violence, and hard-earned, sweet redemption for those who won't give up on love. Because life's not always picture perfect, but every heart, no matter how broken and damaged, deserves love.
If reading about teens behaving badly upsets you, steer clear because these are full of drama, angst, fighting, drugs, sex, and rock & roll. There will be times you want to throw your Kindle. There will be lying, cheating, bullying, backstabbing, violence, and hard-earned, sweet redemption for those who won't give up on love. Because life's not always picture perfect, but every heart, no matter how broken and damaged, deserves love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 285 reviews
July 4, 2021
Disgusting
I enjoyed the first book in this series and really regretted continuing to read. I love bully books but this is just plain disturbing and messed up. I find this book seriously disturbing and I worry about the author’s state of mind to actually write such abusive material. This is not a dark bully book. This book glorifies rape. There is no way that anyone reading this should think rape is excusable. Please avoid making the mistake I did and do not read. I hate to complain but I’m very disappointed in the author and will ensure to boycott in future. I worry about the message this book puts out to people in abusive relationships. This type of material should not be supported unfortunately.
I enjoyed the first book in this series and really regretted continuing to read. I love bully books but this is just plain disturbing and messed up. I find this book seriously disturbing and I worry about the author’s state of mind to actually write such abusive material. This is not a dark bully book. This book glorifies rape. There is no way that anyone reading this should think rape is excusable. Please avoid making the mistake I did and do not read. I hate to complain but I’m very disappointed in the author and will ensure to boycott in future. I worry about the message this book puts out to people in abusive relationships. This type of material should not be supported unfortunately.
August 10, 2021
If you don't want spoilers, don't read this review.
I am shocked beyond words....the first book I could handle, the ending was bad, but I thought "they can come back from this, Royal and his brothers can still be redeemed". But from the second book on I couldn't even read everything, I basically skipped through everything just to know how it ends. Same with the third book. Royal is abusive and he and his brothers are rapists, there is no sugarcoating it. The ending of the third book is just plain disgusting. I have read dark romances before, but this is crossing a line. Honestly, it cannot be called a romance because there is none. Almost all the sexual interactions are rape. It was really disturbing and I cannot possibly see how the series can end in a HEA if Harper has been raped not only by Royal but his brothers too. I will scan through the last book just to see how it ends and I really hope that Royal and his brothers pay dearly for what they have done.
I am shocked beyond words....the first book I could handle, the ending was bad, but I thought "they can come back from this, Royal and his brothers can still be redeemed". But from the second book on I couldn't even read everything, I basically skipped through everything just to know how it ends. Same with the third book. Royal is abusive and he and his brothers are rapists, there is no sugarcoating it. The ending of the third book is just plain disgusting. I have read dark romances before, but this is crossing a line. Honestly, it cannot be called a romance because there is none. Almost all the sexual interactions are rape. It was really disturbing and I cannot possibly see how the series can end in a HEA if Harper has been raped not only by Royal but his brothers too. I will scan through the last book just to see how it ends and I really hope that Royal and his brothers pay dearly for what they have done.
July 10, 2021
Needs alternative ending
I am not opposed to cliffhangers nor do I have any triggers but I hated the cliff hanger to the story. I don’t mind the alpha male being a bad person but this extends too far into the darkness for my liking. Ultimately I do not know how Royal and Harper can come back from an ending like that and I find myself no longer rooting for him which therefore means if she chooses him and they have a hea in the end I’m not at all sure how much I could respect that. I will read broken doll but I’m rooting for the first time in romance books for the heroin to destroy the male main. #harperandcolt?
I am not opposed to cliffhangers nor do I have any triggers but I hated the cliff hanger to the story. I don’t mind the alpha male being a bad person but this extends too far into the darkness for my liking. Ultimately I do not know how Royal and Harper can come back from an ending like that and I find myself no longer rooting for him which therefore means if she chooses him and they have a hea in the end I’m not at all sure how much I could respect that. I will read broken doll but I’m rooting for the first time in romance books for the heroin to destroy the male main. #harperandcolt?
October 5, 2021
OMG What a wicked ride! Selena, I always had faith you'd weave a fantastic story for book 4, but you surpassed my expectations. The emotions, the angst, the drama!!! 👏👏👏 I loved every scene between Harper and Royal....it hit me so hard in the feels. 🥺🥺🥺 A certain character (don't want to spoil) is a new treasure...he needs to be protected.
I loved how the characters are so flawed, even our beloved Harper. Unlike other authors, you're not afraid to have them fall, fail and commit serious offences. I enjoyed that the main character, Harper made mistakes and was wrong on many occasions. I can't even begin to describe how much I enjoyed Royal and his flaws. He's been my boy since day 1. So happy you kept him real and stayed true to his character while still making him culpable for his actions.
The deep emotions that the twins elicited was palpable. Just OMG!
How am I supposed to wait for book 5 after that?!?
So book 4 starts with Royal feeling extreme guilt for what he put Harper through in Boys Club - giving her to his twin brothers and telling them to do what they will and kill her. So Royal tries to numb his pain with a fight. In the meantime, we learn that Harper is rescued by a mystery man whose face is half hidden by a mask because it's scarred. The mystery man, who Harper dubs Phantom, rescues her from the swamp, cleans Harper up, gets her medical attention and nurses her back to health. After the second day of rescue, Harper allows the Phantom to have sex with her even though she's still broken. It is her way of thanking him for her rescue. From approximately April to July, the Phantom takes care of Harper - feeding her, dressing her in expensive clothing and giving her space to heal. But he does have sex with her. After her harrowing experience with the twins, Harper is thoroughly broken and has checked out emotionally and mentally. She simply goes through the motions of living day to day while she observes the Phantom with apathy. As payment for all his efforts, Harper allows the phantom to have sex with her but is completely detached and unavailable emotionally/mentally. Over the next few months, they fall into a routine and Harper is grateful for all his efforts. During moments of depression, she contemplates suicide but the phantom rescues her and gives her consideration for living. The Phantom enjoys dressing Harper and on one occasion Harper sees that the jewelry he bough her is addressed to Mr. D. She becomes upset and confronts the Phantom. He admits he's "Mr. D". Eventually the phantom feels he's outgrown his use and tells Harper to go home (to her Mill Street home with mom).
Harper leaves The Phantom who she learns is really Preston Darling. One day Royal shows up at her mom's home and Harper has a visceral reaction to seeing him again and all the trauma she experienced with the twins. She drives off in Preston's car to his house. She's so upset that she subconsciously attempts suicide by CO2 poisoning with the car in Preston's garage. Royal saves her and allows Preston to look after her again. Harper becomes more determined to stand up for herself and seeks reentry to her former rich prep school. With difficulty she gets a scholarship which we find out later was donated by Royal. She also gets a brand new car, groceries, new furniture etc....all of which she assumes was Preston but was really Royal, even though Preston affirms it when she mistakenly gives him credit. Royal goes through some soul searching and goes to some lengths to atone for his mistakes. He takes Harper to the Slaughterpen where he's tied up the twins and Dawson. It is revealed that only these 3 assaulted Harper even though they made her think it was the entire football team. Royal gives Harper the opportunity to seek her revenge which she does reluctantly and without much punishment. She gives a victim impact speech and hits them with the brass knuckle rings Preston had made for her. In the end, she doesn't do as much damage as they deserved. Although Royal allowed Harper to take revenge on her own terms, he's not satisfied with Dawson's punishment and hangs him on the bridge with a suicide note and the twins help. Note: Dawson Watson is Gloria, Everleigh and E's brother.
Despite her protest, Royal accompanies Harper on her first day of school in order to ensure she is perceived to be still under his protection. Using this leverage, Harper makes a stand against the Dolce gang at school and creates a mutiny with some of her friends like Colt Darling, Dixie (blogger), Josie (new girl), Magnolia Darling (14yrs old), Gideon Delacroix. She does it to make a stand for all the underdogs in the hope that the next generation doesn't have to bow to Dolces/Darlings etc. Also, Harper, Gloria and Colt ally together for Harper to bid for a spot in the Silver Swans and it is assumed that Harper is accepted with some reluctance. There is some reference to antagonistic chemistry between Gloria and Colt. Harper finds Royal at her house and during another run-in Harper gets a chance to air her grievances and tell Royal that he can't be in her life anymore. That he's destroyed her and she has nothing left to give him. She makes him leave and Royal leaves without further argument because he doesn't want to cause her any more pain.
Harper misses Royal over the next month and develops mixed feelings about him because she realizes they're both damaged but it works for them. At a football party, Harper is approached by Royal who is surprised to see her there. They have a tense moment and Harper reiterates she can't be with Royal even though she now forgives him. Royal gets upset, kisses Gloria and takes her into the house. Baron approaches a crying Harper and tells her she belongs with Royal. Baron admits that he didn't like them together but he sees now that they're meant to be together and tells her to go to Royal. Harper finds Gloria and Royal in the bedroom together and while jealous, joins them. Royal leaves while Harper and Gloria have a moment. Gloria finds Royal and apologizes but he's angry with her for telling Harper about his secret forced relationships with his dad's clients. Harper attempts to leave the party knowing that there's nothing there for her. Royal stops her and they have angry sex in the rain, working out their frustrations. Harper gets a text from Preston regarding the results of the DNA test he made her take.
Royal insists on accompanying Harper to get the results from Preston. Royal and Preston fight over Harper but finally all 3 calm down and discover that Harper is not a Darling. Royal has trouble believing it at first because he was given proof by his dad? that Harper was a Darling and that was what caused his hate and bullying in the first place. All 3 of them deduce that it was Tony Dolce who orchestrated the false DNA evidence so that he could manipulate Royal and the twins into dealing with Harper as a diversion while he conducted business with the Darlings on the side. It is also revealed that Preston is not the original Mr.D but was mistaken because he is last name technically begins with a D. After further deduction, it is assumed that Baron is the real Mr. D because of his computer skills, being against Harper and Royal's relationship etc. The story ends there to be picked up in Book 5.
I loved how the characters are so flawed, even our beloved Harper. Unlike other authors, you're not afraid to have them fall, fail and commit serious offences. I enjoyed that the main character, Harper made mistakes and was wrong on many occasions. I can't even begin to describe how much I enjoyed Royal and his flaws. He's been my boy since day 1. So happy you kept him real and stayed true to his character while still making him culpable for his actions.
The deep emotions that the twins elicited was palpable. Just OMG!
How am I supposed to wait for book 5 after that?!?
So book 4 starts with Royal feeling extreme guilt for what he put Harper through in Boys Club - giving her to his twin brothers and telling them to do what they will and kill her. So Royal tries to numb his pain with a fight. In the meantime, we learn that Harper is rescued by a mystery man whose face is half hidden by a mask because it's scarred. The mystery man, who Harper dubs Phantom, rescues her from the swamp, cleans Harper up, gets her medical attention and nurses her back to health. After the second day of rescue, Harper allows the Phantom to have sex with her even though she's still broken. It is her way of thanking him for her rescue. From approximately April to July, the Phantom takes care of Harper - feeding her, dressing her in expensive clothing and giving her space to heal. But he does have sex with her. After her harrowing experience with the twins, Harper is thoroughly broken and has checked out emotionally and mentally. She simply goes through the motions of living day to day while she observes the Phantom with apathy. As payment for all his efforts, Harper allows the phantom to have sex with her but is completely detached and unavailable emotionally/mentally. Over the next few months, they fall into a routine and Harper is grateful for all his efforts. During moments of depression, she contemplates suicide but the phantom rescues her and gives her consideration for living. The Phantom enjoys dressing Harper and on one occasion Harper sees that the jewelry he bough her is addressed to Mr. D. She becomes upset and confronts the Phantom. He admits he's "Mr. D". Eventually the phantom feels he's outgrown his use and tells Harper to go home (to her Mill Street home with mom).
Harper leaves The Phantom who she learns is really Preston Darling. One day Royal shows up at her mom's home and Harper has a visceral reaction to seeing him again and all the trauma she experienced with the twins. She drives off in Preston's car to his house. She's so upset that she subconsciously attempts suicide by CO2 poisoning with the car in Preston's garage. Royal saves her and allows Preston to look after her again. Harper becomes more determined to stand up for herself and seeks reentry to her former rich prep school. With difficulty she gets a scholarship which we find out later was donated by Royal. She also gets a brand new car, groceries, new furniture etc....all of which she assumes was Preston but was really Royal, even though Preston affirms it when she mistakenly gives him credit. Royal goes through some soul searching and goes to some lengths to atone for his mistakes. He takes Harper to the Slaughterpen where he's tied up the twins and Dawson. It is revealed that only these 3 assaulted Harper even though they made her think it was the entire football team. Royal gives Harper the opportunity to seek her revenge which she does reluctantly and without much punishment. She gives a victim impact speech and hits them with the brass knuckle rings Preston had made for her. In the end, she doesn't do as much damage as they deserved. Although Royal allowed Harper to take revenge on her own terms, he's not satisfied with Dawson's punishment and hangs him on the bridge with a suicide note and the twins help. Note: Dawson Watson is Gloria, Everleigh and E's brother.
Despite her protest, Royal accompanies Harper on her first day of school in order to ensure she is perceived to be still under his protection. Using this leverage, Harper makes a stand against the Dolce gang at school and creates a mutiny with some of her friends like Colt Darling, Dixie (blogger), Josie (new girl), Magnolia Darling (14yrs old), Gideon Delacroix. She does it to make a stand for all the underdogs in the hope that the next generation doesn't have to bow to Dolces/Darlings etc. Also, Harper, Gloria and Colt ally together for Harper to bid for a spot in the Silver Swans and it is assumed that Harper is accepted with some reluctance. There is some reference to antagonistic chemistry between Gloria and Colt. Harper finds Royal at her house and during another run-in Harper gets a chance to air her grievances and tell Royal that he can't be in her life anymore. That he's destroyed her and she has nothing left to give him. She makes him leave and Royal leaves without further argument because he doesn't want to cause her any more pain.
Harper misses Royal over the next month and develops mixed feelings about him because she realizes they're both damaged but it works for them. At a football party, Harper is approached by Royal who is surprised to see her there. They have a tense moment and Harper reiterates she can't be with Royal even though she now forgives him. Royal gets upset, kisses Gloria and takes her into the house. Baron approaches a crying Harper and tells her she belongs with Royal. Baron admits that he didn't like them together but he sees now that they're meant to be together and tells her to go to Royal. Harper finds Gloria and Royal in the bedroom together and while jealous, joins them. Royal leaves while Harper and Gloria have a moment. Gloria finds Royal and apologizes but he's angry with her for telling Harper about his secret forced relationships with his dad's clients. Harper attempts to leave the party knowing that there's nothing there for her. Royal stops her and they have angry sex in the rain, working out their frustrations. Harper gets a text from Preston regarding the results of the DNA test he made her take.
Royal insists on accompanying Harper to get the results from Preston. Royal and Preston fight over Harper but finally all 3 calm down and discover that Harper is not a Darling. Royal has trouble believing it at first because he was given proof by his dad? that Harper was a Darling and that was what caused his hate and bullying in the first place. All 3 of them deduce that it was Tony Dolce who orchestrated the false DNA evidence so that he could manipulate Royal and the twins into dealing with Harper as a diversion while he conducted business with the Darlings on the side. It is also revealed that Preston is not the original Mr.D but was mistaken because he is last name technically begins with a D. After further deduction, it is assumed that Baron is the real Mr. D because of his computer skills, being against Harper and Royal's relationship etc. The story ends there to be picked up in Book 5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2021
Absolutely amazing
I betrayed Royal.
Betrayal. Keep that word in mind when reading this book because you are not prepared. You will not be prepared for the depth, the complexity, the angst, and emotion this story will evoke. As much as the characters are self-destructive is as much as the reader will feel wrecked.
After the gutting conclusion of book 3, book 4 opens with a broken and emotionally ravaged Harper in care of a man who becomes pivotal to the balance of the story. Twists and turns abound, the storylines of Harper, Royal, brothers Duke and Baron, and bevy of side characters stir drama and intertwine in an influential shift of power, betrayal, forgiveness in the ever-unfolding Dolce-Darling saga.
Though my heart and body have been decimated in ways there's no going back from, even those missing a soul can keep breathing.
While Harper may be emotionally, mentally and even physically damaged, she remains a stalwart of persevering fortitude. One can't but admire her character. At the same time, Royal, an antihero and conceivably irredeemable, possesses such a depth of character and backstory that he provokes strong feelings. Antipathy? Maybe. And even some understanding. And the beauty of this story is their personal growth and discovery.
On a cloudy day, when a sunflower can't see the sun, it will still follows the path. It waits for the sun to come back, knowing it will.
Harper and Royal are like two orbiting souls encircling, consumed by an irrepressible gravitational, magnetic force. They have more in common in their disparate upbringings than those around them. Their edginess, their chemistry are simply electric and like sunflowers they always seem to follow each other. Harper and Royal are complicated and explosive. They have an unparalleled attraction, a connection I’ve never come across. Their spark is earth-shattering, emotionally uplifting, and sometimes painful pleasure.
One of the grittiest books I’ve ever read with an authenticity and feeling that is almost poetic. These feel like real events happening to real people, and they were twisted and ugly and bitter and calculating. Yet in it all, there is this fierce emotion…this undercurrent of pure animalistic magnetism that two people made for each, crookedly connected of faults they cannot deny. Harper and Royal in blazingly naked form. All their faults, vulnerabilities exposed. Powerful.
The intricacy with which the author strategically intertwined characters was amazing, like puzzle pieces fitting together. Former histories come to fore, and with just as many secrets that are revealed, other doors close; other puzzle pieces are left floundering in wake of the events, the destruction, the betrayals of this book.
Not a steamy book per se. Instead, it focuses on character development, mystery, thought-provoking events, personal connection / disconnect, awakening, becoming a new you. This was a book of reveals and explanations, of growth and character development. It is psychological...spiritually dark, and I found my heart palpitating with the angst of it all, always hoping for the best -- Harper and Royal's happiness -- but at terms with the adverse.
Character development was phenomenal. Nothing is strictly black or white, right or wrong. The characters are flawed, realistic, seeking validation, worth, and individual justice. There are also opportunists. Character behaviors -- good or bad -- were natural to their true tendencies. The true talent lies in the feelings the story inspired.
While mostly told from Harper’s point of view, a great deal is from Royal’s for insight into his feelings. A medium burn with a progressive and captivating pace, I read the story in one session though savored, in order to catch those nuggets of detail that pull all the facets of the series together and better explain the characters' motives. Lots of answers from the past that influence the present. You get insight and even understanding and acceptance of their motivations, why someone or something inconceivably unforgivable has reason, makes sense, even redeems itself. The power of forgiveness.
We are all victims of each other…. Forgiving...doesn't make me weak or foolish. It makes me the strongest one of us.
I betrayed Royal.
Betrayal. Keep that word in mind when reading this book because you are not prepared. You will not be prepared for the depth, the complexity, the angst, and emotion this story will evoke. As much as the characters are self-destructive is as much as the reader will feel wrecked.
After the gutting conclusion of book 3, book 4 opens with a broken and emotionally ravaged Harper in care of a man who becomes pivotal to the balance of the story. Twists and turns abound, the storylines of Harper, Royal, brothers Duke and Baron, and bevy of side characters stir drama and intertwine in an influential shift of power, betrayal, forgiveness in the ever-unfolding Dolce-Darling saga.
Though my heart and body have been decimated in ways there's no going back from, even those missing a soul can keep breathing.
While Harper may be emotionally, mentally and even physically damaged, she remains a stalwart of persevering fortitude. One can't but admire her character. At the same time, Royal, an antihero and conceivably irredeemable, possesses such a depth of character and backstory that he provokes strong feelings. Antipathy? Maybe. And even some understanding. And the beauty of this story is their personal growth and discovery.
On a cloudy day, when a sunflower can't see the sun, it will still follows the path. It waits for the sun to come back, knowing it will.
Harper and Royal are like two orbiting souls encircling, consumed by an irrepressible gravitational, magnetic force. They have more in common in their disparate upbringings than those around them. Their edginess, their chemistry are simply electric and like sunflowers they always seem to follow each other. Harper and Royal are complicated and explosive. They have an unparalleled attraction, a connection I’ve never come across. Their spark is earth-shattering, emotionally uplifting, and sometimes painful pleasure.
One of the grittiest books I’ve ever read with an authenticity and feeling that is almost poetic. These feel like real events happening to real people, and they were twisted and ugly and bitter and calculating. Yet in it all, there is this fierce emotion…this undercurrent of pure animalistic magnetism that two people made for each, crookedly connected of faults they cannot deny. Harper and Royal in blazingly naked form. All their faults, vulnerabilities exposed. Powerful.
The intricacy with which the author strategically intertwined characters was amazing, like puzzle pieces fitting together. Former histories come to fore, and with just as many secrets that are revealed, other doors close; other puzzle pieces are left floundering in wake of the events, the destruction, the betrayals of this book.
Not a steamy book per se. Instead, it focuses on character development, mystery, thought-provoking events, personal connection / disconnect, awakening, becoming a new you. This was a book of reveals and explanations, of growth and character development. It is psychological...spiritually dark, and I found my heart palpitating with the angst of it all, always hoping for the best -- Harper and Royal's happiness -- but at terms with the adverse.
Character development was phenomenal. Nothing is strictly black or white, right or wrong. The characters are flawed, realistic, seeking validation, worth, and individual justice. There are also opportunists. Character behaviors -- good or bad -- were natural to their true tendencies. The true talent lies in the feelings the story inspired.
While mostly told from Harper’s point of view, a great deal is from Royal’s for insight into his feelings. A medium burn with a progressive and captivating pace, I read the story in one session though savored, in order to catch those nuggets of detail that pull all the facets of the series together and better explain the characters' motives. Lots of answers from the past that influence the present. You get insight and even understanding and acceptance of their motivations, why someone or something inconceivably unforgivable has reason, makes sense, even redeems itself. The power of forgiveness.
We are all victims of each other…. Forgiving...doesn't make me weak or foolish. It makes me the strongest one of us.
October 2, 2021
Victim blaming much?
I said in my review of the last book that I couldn't ever imagine coming back from what they did. I still can't. And I am thoroughly disgusted with our fmc and the author, when she freaking blames herself. I'm sorry, what??? She betrayed him, sure, she told someone some info about him. That, in no way, shape, or form equates to what he did and had done to her. And making him a survivor? That actually makes it worse. This whole contrived intrigue at the end just felt like something thrown in to stretch it out for another book, which I will not be reading. I had such high hopes for the fmc since the author didn't shy away from utter destruction in the last book. I was ready for her to actually wreak havoc and have serious revenge. What I got was victim blaming, a pathetic show of "power" in the cafeteria, and a freaking threesome? Disappointed. So freaking dis
appointed.
I said in my review of the last book that I couldn't ever imagine coming back from what they did. I still can't. And I am thoroughly disgusted with our fmc and the author, when she freaking blames herself. I'm sorry, what??? She betrayed him, sure, she told someone some info about him. That, in no way, shape, or form equates to what he did and had done to her. And making him a survivor? That actually makes it worse. This whole contrived intrigue at the end just felt like something thrown in to stretch it out for another book, which I will not be reading. I had such high hopes for the fmc since the author didn't shy away from utter destruction in the last book. I was ready for her to actually wreak havoc and have serious revenge. What I got was victim blaming, a pathetic show of "power" in the cafeteria, and a freaking threesome? Disappointed. So freaking dis
appointed.
October 3, 2021
No just no...Spoilers attached because wtf
I was wondering how the Arthur was going to dig themselves out if the giant hole the ending of book 3 left them in. The answer is they didnt. You really can't come back from not just a rape but the multiple and multiple then even more rapes they add to Harpers belt.There's no chance of Royal and Harper having any type of relationship so sthap . I mean it was his brothers who raped her. What where you thinking?!. Then the person that " rescues " her just keeps raping her 😩. Throw some money at her and shes better? Someone call a psychiatrist homegirl gonna need centuries of therapy. But it doesn't stop there add some psycho attempts and being " Queen" that fall extremely flat. Not even the worse parts .....no lets add a cherry to the top of this messy psychotic mess when he spits saliva and blood into her mouth 😷 broooooooooo doesn't even stop them from having sex, wtf?! like i said T.H.E.R.A.P.Y. Mind blown 😱
I was wondering how the Arthur was going to dig themselves out if the giant hole the ending of book 3 left them in. The answer is they didnt. You really can't come back from not just a rape but the multiple and multiple then even more rapes they add to Harpers belt.There's no chance of Royal and Harper having any type of relationship so sthap . I mean it was his brothers who raped her. What where you thinking?!. Then the person that " rescues " her just keeps raping her 😩. Throw some money at her and shes better? Someone call a psychiatrist homegirl gonna need centuries of therapy. But it doesn't stop there add some psycho attempts and being " Queen" that fall extremely flat. Not even the worse parts .....no lets add a cherry to the top of this messy psychotic mess when he spits saliva and blood into her mouth 😷 broooooooooo doesn't even stop them from having sex, wtf?! like i said T.H.E.R.A.P.Y. Mind blown 😱
July 3, 2021
Masochistic and sickening
This book was a good read until you get to the end. What Royal and his brothers do is absolutely awful and there is nothing that he could possibly do to redeem himself. The way that the last scene was written was horrifying and sickening to read. If I’m honest, I think a line has been crossed with this book and it shouldn’t have been. I gave 3 stars cause the first part of the book was good.
This book was a good read until you get to the end. What Royal and his brothers do is absolutely awful and there is nothing that he could possibly do to redeem himself. The way that the last scene was written was horrifying and sickening to read. If I’m honest, I think a line has been crossed with this book and it shouldn’t have been. I gave 3 stars cause the first part of the book was good.
October 2, 2021
Heart wrenchingly good!
Broken Doll was everything I've been waiting for!!
The final reveal of Mr D....wow! Selena you've done it again, weaved your wicked way with words into our messed up, twisted hearts 🖤
Those last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat, at one point I screamed out a WTF, didn't think you could play us like that with Lo, but you brought it back to rights.
I love how you've kept Royal and Harper true to themselves throughout and even after the way Boys Club ended, you worked your magic so we're still frothing for team Royal.
Bring on Blood Empire, it can't come soon enough.
Broken Doll was everything I've been waiting for!!
The final reveal of Mr D....wow! Selena you've done it again, weaved your wicked way with words into our messed up, twisted hearts 🖤
Those last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat, at one point I screamed out a WTF, didn't think you could play us like that with Lo, but you brought it back to rights.
I love how you've kept Royal and Harper true to themselves throughout and even after the way Boys Club ended, you worked your magic so we're still frothing for team Royal.
Bring on Blood Empire, it can't come soon enough.
July 30, 2022
Good, we finally learn who Mr D is !!! 😁
I like that the heroine has some of that spark back from book 1. She's not taking crap anymore from anyone. Harper is the Knuckle Duster Queen!!! 👊👊💪💪
Aww sweet Gideon. ❤ Baron the evil twin...tsk tsk 😈😈 Would love to get his story.
Spoiler below -----
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I like that the heroine has some of that spark back from book 1. She's not taking crap anymore from anyone. Harper is the Knuckle Duster Queen!!! 👊👊💪💪
Aww sweet Gideon. ❤ Baron the evil twin...tsk tsk 😈😈 Would love to get his story.
Spoiler below -----
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January 12, 2022
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! Bully romance, just so good. Highly recommend this series.
October 4, 2021
Broken Doll or Broken Dolls
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I want to say that this book was everything! Holy shiet. Harper is one of the strongest characters I've ever met. Forreal if you can't handle triggers then this book and series is definitely not for you. Don't read and be all negative Nancy or a Karen for that matter. Just don't. You were warned and didn't listen. The beginning will gut you for sure. It did me. We get the after math of Harper being destroyed and then we get to see her rebuild herself, just like the Phoenix she said she was. I'm throughly impressed. Those last few chapters have me dying to know who Mr. D is since we all thought we learned it in the beginning. One final book and I bet it's going to be wild. I can only begin to imagine how this will affect Royal once it's truly figured out. I really really hope there is a HEA for this crew. TRULY ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I want to say that this book was everything! Holy shiet. Harper is one of the strongest characters I've ever met. Forreal if you can't handle triggers then this book and series is definitely not for you. Don't read and be all negative Nancy or a Karen for that matter. Just don't. You were warned and didn't listen. The beginning will gut you for sure. It did me. We get the after math of Harper being destroyed and then we get to see her rebuild herself, just like the Phoenix she said she was. I'm throughly impressed. Those last few chapters have me dying to know who Mr. D is since we all thought we learned it in the beginning. One final book and I bet it's going to be wild. I can only begin to imagine how this will affect Royal once it's truly figured out. I really really hope there is a HEA for this crew. TRULY ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
September 28, 2021
I really hope that the author will give Harper a new hero.. otherwise there is no point of this book..Royal is beyond redemption..hate him and his asshole twin brothers 😡😡😡😡😡😡
October 2, 2021
First off. These reviews are all messed up. The author added in another book to this series so the books and titles for book 3 and book 4 are all messed up. Reading order- Bad Apple, Brutal Boy, Boys Club, Broken Doll and Blood Empire. Now for my review of Broken Doll.
*ARC*
Broken Doll continues pretty much where Boys Club ends, after Harpers assault. Harper finds herself rescued after being brutally assaulted. Her rescuer keeps her hidden away to heal though, and Harper is a shell of what she was. Royal believes she is dead but continues to look for any sign of her. Eventually, Harper finds her way back to Willow Prep and back into the realm of not only the Dolces’ but the Darlings’ as well.
Generic spoilers below.... do not continue if you do not want to get a gist for the book!
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Personally, I wanted Harper to fight like a fkn lunatic. We all know what a bad ass she is from book 1 and 2. I wanted to see it, see her get her revenge for the unthinkable. The book didn’t play out like I mentally imagined HOWEVER I like how it actually did. It shows a really broken side of not only Harper (seriously who wouldn’t be after her rape) but Royal as well. The author does a great job of having her characters stick to how she has created them and not softening them up. We do finally get some answers, but boy do we get some more questions!! This book is very emotional. Lots of “in your feelings” going on with events that have happened. I thought it was a fantastic follow up to what happened in Boys Club. We see the return of some characters, and get just a little more of the twins (but honestly not nearly enough!).
And people. This series is dark. There are socially unacceptable things going on. The author has put out plenty of warnings. For those that love dark romance, this is a really good fkn series.
*ARC*
Broken Doll continues pretty much where Boys Club ends, after Harpers assault. Harper finds herself rescued after being brutally assaulted. Her rescuer keeps her hidden away to heal though, and Harper is a shell of what she was. Royal believes she is dead but continues to look for any sign of her. Eventually, Harper finds her way back to Willow Prep and back into the realm of not only the Dolces’ but the Darlings’ as well.
Generic spoilers below.... do not continue if you do not want to get a gist for the book!
.
.
.
.
Personally, I wanted Harper to fight like a fkn lunatic. We all know what a bad ass she is from book 1 and 2. I wanted to see it, see her get her revenge for the unthinkable. The book didn’t play out like I mentally imagined HOWEVER I like how it actually did. It shows a really broken side of not only Harper (seriously who wouldn’t be after her rape) but Royal as well. The author does a great job of having her characters stick to how she has created them and not softening them up. We do finally get some answers, but boy do we get some more questions!! This book is very emotional. Lots of “in your feelings” going on with events that have happened. I thought it was a fantastic follow up to what happened in Boys Club. We see the return of some characters, and get just a little more of the twins (but honestly not nearly enough!).
And people. This series is dark. There are socially unacceptable things going on. The author has put out plenty of warnings. For those that love dark romance, this is a really good fkn series.
October 6, 2021
My first thoughts when finishing this book.
No I still do not consider this series as of yet a romance.
No I did not expect who Mr. D was!! I am still shocked and floored. I thought I knew who it was and I was completely wrong.
I still very much love Harper. I can’t exactly understand some of the decisions that she makes but I still love her and I do have empathy for Royal. Which I understand a lot of people won’t. And I totally understand why.
This series is probably the best series that I have read this year. It’s truly a masterpiece and you can tell it came from the heart and from a really talented writer.
So this book, book four, Broken Doll - leaves off moments after book three. Harper ends up getting rescued and cared for by someone. She is in a trance like state for months and just simply does not care about anything around her. Just going with the flow and trying to numb all of her emotions after what happened to her. She needs time to process what she just went through and why it happened.
“He’s the demon, the one who possessed me and stole my soul, leaving nothing behind. I’m the empty shell of a girl, all that’s left after a demon gets what it wants and moves onto the next victim.
As time goes on she slowly does come out of her shell, and decides to go back to school.
The man who helped her, we call The Phantom because he does wear a mask. And becomes I guess you can say a friend to Harper.
Royal is still Royal. I don’t think we’re going to see much change in his character which I completely applaud the author for not making him into a whining groveling mess. We are not going to get that from Royal Dolce. He does however still hold claim on Harper. And has his way of saying he’s sorry without literally saying the words.
Harper slowly becomes back to herself. She will always hold those mental scars and never forget. But she does attempt to move on and the cord that holds Harper and Royal together is still chainlink and holding tight.
“I came back, rose like a fucking phoenix from the ashes of the decimated landscape of my soul.
This entire series is absolutely phenomenal. There’s a lot of triggers. Tons of non-con dub-con, abuse, bullying to the max,
Murdering… gaslighting, etc.
no one‘s falling in love. There still is no HEA in sight. I’m still crying over the Darlings. My heart is literally shattered over how abusive these two families can be. And it’s just an amazing series. I don’t know how else to explain it. There needs to be more hype for this author for sure. Every book I’ve ever read from her has been five stars in this book is no different. It truly is phenomenal.
No I still do not consider this series as of yet a romance.
No I did not expect who Mr. D was!! I am still shocked and floored. I thought I knew who it was and I was completely wrong.
I still very much love Harper. I can’t exactly understand some of the decisions that she makes but I still love her and I do have empathy for Royal. Which I understand a lot of people won’t. And I totally understand why.
This series is probably the best series that I have read this year. It’s truly a masterpiece and you can tell it came from the heart and from a really talented writer.
So this book, book four, Broken Doll - leaves off moments after book three. Harper ends up getting rescued and cared for by someone. She is in a trance like state for months and just simply does not care about anything around her. Just going with the flow and trying to numb all of her emotions after what happened to her. She needs time to process what she just went through and why it happened.
“He’s the demon, the one who possessed me and stole my soul, leaving nothing behind. I’m the empty shell of a girl, all that’s left after a demon gets what it wants and moves onto the next victim.
As time goes on she slowly does come out of her shell, and decides to go back to school.
The man who helped her, we call The Phantom because he does wear a mask. And becomes I guess you can say a friend to Harper.
Royal is still Royal. I don’t think we’re going to see much change in his character which I completely applaud the author for not making him into a whining groveling mess. We are not going to get that from Royal Dolce. He does however still hold claim on Harper. And has his way of saying he’s sorry without literally saying the words.
Harper slowly becomes back to herself. She will always hold those mental scars and never forget. But she does attempt to move on and the cord that holds Harper and Royal together is still chainlink and holding tight.
“I came back, rose like a fucking phoenix from the ashes of the decimated landscape of my soul.
This entire series is absolutely phenomenal. There’s a lot of triggers. Tons of non-con dub-con, abuse, bullying to the max,
Murdering… gaslighting, etc.
no one‘s falling in love. There still is no HEA in sight. I’m still crying over the Darlings. My heart is literally shattered over how abusive these two families can be. And it’s just an amazing series. I don’t know how else to explain it. There needs to be more hype for this author for sure. Every book I’ve ever read from her has been five stars in this book is no different. It truly is phenomenal.
January 20, 2022
Harper
I have to admit I’m so confused and messed up on how I feel about this book. Certain things happen in this book and one being rape. But when somebody is raped no matter how desperate you are you wouldn’t go back there. But what do I know. Harper has some messed up emotions etc and the way Royal is with her is more than cruel and the things he’s done in this book which btw I thought book 2 was bad on how he treated her but for me I feel he went too far. And the end is sickening. Cruel. With a cliffhanger that I’m worried how that will play out. I’m emotional after reading the cliffhanger.
This book is full of trigger warnings
This book makes bullies look like angels esp with Royal and his brothers
Psychological I can’t understand Royals motives other than the guy is so messed up, I don’t think there is any help for him.
And why are his brothers as messed up as him? What Royal went through is nothing for them as they never experienced it. They don’t know everything that has happened to Royal and they don’t know everything about Royal now either and I still don’t understand how their brains work.
Ok weird how this review of mine was for book 3 and not book 4 so as you can imagine I was surprised to see this review as I went to put in my review for this book lol
So as above is for book 3 and I apologise for anybody who is confused
Some error or something I guess
Anyway onto book 4 review aka broken doll……
After my trauma from book 3 with that cliffhanger, it’s been so much easier to read book 4
Harper! She’s one of my favourite FMC of all time, she’s come from the wrong side of town, a nobody, tough skin and wants to make a point to the rich stuck up pricks on the upper side where they have no worries like when will they be able to next eat, can’t afford the electric bill etc
So this book is seeing a side to her we havnt and we witness her going from one badass babe, loves to fight, the bloodier the better to literally broken
This series is one of the strongest and dark books I’ve ever read. You want dark you get dark.
You know when sometimes to read a dark romance and the leading female thinks she can soften the bully, the cruel male etc yeah this series is definitely a dark romance that stays dark. It’s not lovey dovey, it’s psychotic, cruel, evil, Selena has brought one hell of a series that even makes a serial killer look kind.
These characters especially the Dolce Brothers make even mafia characters weak and child’s play to what they have been doing.
I’m trying not to spoil the story for anybody who hasn’t read from book 1 yet
I just want to say that as of this cliffhanger I had my suspicions and it makes so much sense
I can’t wait to get stuck in to book 5
I have to admit I’m so confused and messed up on how I feel about this book. Certain things happen in this book and one being rape. But when somebody is raped no matter how desperate you are you wouldn’t go back there. But what do I know. Harper has some messed up emotions etc and the way Royal is with her is more than cruel and the things he’s done in this book which btw I thought book 2 was bad on how he treated her but for me I feel he went too far. And the end is sickening. Cruel. With a cliffhanger that I’m worried how that will play out. I’m emotional after reading the cliffhanger.
This book is full of trigger warnings
This book makes bullies look like angels esp with Royal and his brothers
Psychological I can’t understand Royals motives other than the guy is so messed up, I don’t think there is any help for him.
And why are his brothers as messed up as him? What Royal went through is nothing for them as they never experienced it. They don’t know everything that has happened to Royal and they don’t know everything about Royal now either and I still don’t understand how their brains work.
Ok weird how this review of mine was for book 3 and not book 4 so as you can imagine I was surprised to see this review as I went to put in my review for this book lol
So as above is for book 3 and I apologise for anybody who is confused
Some error or something I guess
Anyway onto book 4 review aka broken doll……
After my trauma from book 3 with that cliffhanger, it’s been so much easier to read book 4
Harper! She’s one of my favourite FMC of all time, she’s come from the wrong side of town, a nobody, tough skin and wants to make a point to the rich stuck up pricks on the upper side where they have no worries like when will they be able to next eat, can’t afford the electric bill etc
So this book is seeing a side to her we havnt and we witness her going from one badass babe, loves to fight, the bloodier the better to literally broken
This series is one of the strongest and dark books I’ve ever read. You want dark you get dark.
You know when sometimes to read a dark romance and the leading female thinks she can soften the bully, the cruel male etc yeah this series is definitely a dark romance that stays dark. It’s not lovey dovey, it’s psychotic, cruel, evil, Selena has brought one hell of a series that even makes a serial killer look kind.
These characters especially the Dolce Brothers make even mafia characters weak and child’s play to what they have been doing.
I’m trying not to spoil the story for anybody who hasn’t read from book 1 yet
I just want to say that as of this cliffhanger I had my suspicions and it makes so much sense
I can’t wait to get stuck in to book 5
March 28, 2024
The impossible has just happened...
I NEVER thought Royal could slither out of the black but, I think he kind of maybe did it. It was bad, brutal, and broken. But I think he pulled out just before he faded epically.
Getting here from where we were left in book three was bleak. Not much in the form of positivity and that hurt deep. I honestly had a hard time wrapping my head around where the story was going. I honestly, I felt a little wronged somehow. Like I was betrayed right along Harper. It gutted me.
That feeling stuck around for a minute and it was a time in darkness. The Wonderland reference was ridiculously on point because we were tossed into a rabbit hole here. Constantly off balance. With every answer we got ten more questions. We were abused thoroughly.
I swear to you, if you've stuck out the journey this far, you'll come out the other side. Will you be angry? I hope so. Relieved? Probably, but you might feel conflicted about it. The Dolce boys never operate out of the grey, but this time, they were divided. Loyalty will be shaken.
Glory is never gutless. Revenge is never regal. Secrets never save.
Living like it's so? Only leads one way.
To a Blood Empire.
Who will reign?
I NEVER thought Royal could slither out of the black but, I think he kind of maybe did it. It was bad, brutal, and broken. But I think he pulled out just before he faded epically.
Getting here from where we were left in book three was bleak. Not much in the form of positivity and that hurt deep. I honestly had a hard time wrapping my head around where the story was going. I honestly, I felt a little wronged somehow. Like I was betrayed right along Harper. It gutted me.
That feeling stuck around for a minute and it was a time in darkness. The Wonderland reference was ridiculously on point because we were tossed into a rabbit hole here. Constantly off balance. With every answer we got ten more questions. We were abused thoroughly.
I swear to you, if you've stuck out the journey this far, you'll come out the other side. Will you be angry? I hope so. Relieved? Probably, but you might feel conflicted about it. The Dolce boys never operate out of the grey, but this time, they were divided. Loyalty will be shaken.
Glory is never gutless. Revenge is never regal. Secrets never save.
Living like it's so? Only leads one way.
To a Blood Empire.
Who will reign?
July 5, 2021
Not for everyone
Not my cup of tea... I enjoyed the 1st 2 books in the series but I guess this one was just a little too much for me... its definitely for the dark mind and although I like a little darkness, this one just went a little too far for me
Not my cup of tea... I enjoyed the 1st 2 books in the series but I guess this one was just a little too much for me... its definitely for the dark mind and although I like a little darkness, this one just went a little too far for me
July 10, 2021
Read many kindle books, but this ending takes it to far. It's horrific, degradation to the extreme. Do NOT read i
and extremely offensive, read at will!! Author has written some great books but this is to far!! Hope next books are more sensitive .
and extremely offensive, read at will!! Author has written some great books but this is to far!! Hope next books are more sensitive .
October 3, 2021
I hate the word "dark" to excuse every shitty stupid thing.
There is dark and there is an arranged gang rape by the main "hero".
I thought she was going to take them down if not kill them, not blame herself and understand them and take the bastard back. How pathetic can one person be.
There is dark and there is an arranged gang rape by the main "hero".
I thought she was going to take them down if not kill them, not blame herself and understand them and take the bastard back. How pathetic can one person be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2021
Feels 3
Storyline 4.25
Steam 3
Overall Rating 4.25
Kindle eArc provided by Booksprout
Reviewed by Robin
I freaking love this dark, savage series. Harper is a broken shell of the badass girl she use to be. She's numb and barely going through the motions of a real life girl. This story is twisted with lots of unpredictable plot twists. The Dolces brothers are still in charge and ruling the Willow Heights Prep. Harper is trying to move forward and show that she's a survivor with some unexpected help. And Royal? You will just have to read and see how he's doing without Harper. All I know is this book was insane and covers a short time period but there's a whole lot of emotions and trauma packed into it. I'm dying to find out how this will all end because there's a day of reckoning coming due.
Storyline 4.25
Steam 3
Overall Rating 4.25
Kindle eArc provided by Booksprout
Reviewed by Robin
I freaking love this dark, savage series. Harper is a broken shell of the badass girl she use to be. She's numb and barely going through the motions of a real life girl. This story is twisted with lots of unpredictable plot twists. The Dolces brothers are still in charge and ruling the Willow Heights Prep. Harper is trying to move forward and show that she's a survivor with some unexpected help. And Royal? You will just have to read and see how he's doing without Harper. All I know is this book was insane and covers a short time period but there's a whole lot of emotions and trauma packed into it. I'm dying to find out how this will all end because there's a day of reckoning coming due.
October 1, 2021
Yup finished this in one day!
Broken Doll by Selena - Book 4 of the WHPA: Exile Series
Releases tomorrow!
⭐️100/5
🔥4.5/5 (less steamy than the others in my opinion)
You must read the prior books before this one. Yup I knew going into this one my emotions were going to be all over the place and for sure bawling my eyes out at like the 25% of book. There is just so much going on and picks up right where the other leaves off and we get some answers but others are still needing to be addressed in the concluding book. This series is seriously a top 5 for me of the year (just posted yesterday) so I recommend everyone go read it! I don’t remember how I found Selena as an Author but I’m so happy she brought these books in my life lol. Also triggers all over so if you can’t handle something don’t read it!
Broken Doll by Selena - Book 4 of the WHPA: Exile Series
Releases tomorrow!
⭐️100/5
🔥4.5/5 (less steamy than the others in my opinion)
You must read the prior books before this one. Yup I knew going into this one my emotions were going to be all over the place and for sure bawling my eyes out at like the 25% of book. There is just so much going on and picks up right where the other leaves off and we get some answers but others are still needing to be addressed in the concluding book. This series is seriously a top 5 for me of the year (just posted yesterday) so I recommend everyone go read it! I don’t remember how I found Selena as an Author but I’m so happy she brought these books in my life lol. Also triggers all over so if you can’t handle something don’t read it!
October 2, 2021
Apparently there's ANOTHER book in the series now. It's not listed in the series on Goodreads and not available until Jan making this is the series that won't end!! This book was better than the last, there was some character growth in Harper and I can see the author trying to reign in some of the heavy misogynistic content but it's still way to little to late. I still don't feel like there's any coming back from book 3 and the creepy/rapey saviour didn't help at all. Book1 was awesome, I have full regrets continuing on though.
December 12, 2021
4.5
I needed more of Royal….
I needed more of Royal….
October 3, 2021
10 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
That's how much i love this book
I didn't know how royal will redeem himself after book 3 ,I felt so betrayed for Harper but book 4 Harper and royal surprised me 😍😍.I love this two and can't wait for the final conclusion
That's how much i love this book
I didn't know how royal will redeem himself after book 3 ,I felt so betrayed for Harper but book 4 Harper and royal surprised me 😍😍.I love this two and can't wait for the final conclusion
October 14, 2021
To be completely honest i wasnt sure how this book would play out after that ending of the last book. It was shockingly brutal and i couldnt see just how Harper and Royal could come back from that???
The beginning of Broken Dolls (this book) is difficult reading and my heart literally broke for Harper with everything that she went through to get some semblance of herself back. The first few chapters of this book definitely take you on an emotional roller coaster with Harper. Im still struggling with the fact that i felt Harper didnt get any proper revenge. It least i didnt think so. I was wanting her to get a little bit bloody (yes im a little bloodthirsty but only in regards to books) and yeah to a certain degree she did but to me it wasnt enough. Royal and his brothers got off way too easy.
I didnt get the whole angst or feelings of betrayal that Royal thought he felt? Almost like it gave him a free pass to do what he did. It didnt. Even so i did feel that we got to know a little bit more about Royal in this book but it didnt excuse him. This power struggle/one-upmanship that he has with Preston just came across as two spoiled brats to me. Mr D was a surprise too. I didnt see that coming
I did like how Harper refused to go down without a fight though. She made sure they knew just how much stronger than them she was. I have so much going on in my head after reading this book. Like whether i love or hate this book? Im still not convinced about some of the characters but Harper is just a brilliant one. So im reading this mainly for her but Cole, Gloria, Dixie and Gideon (i want to just hug him) are good too. That ending was jaw dropping good. I cant wait to see how this series ends now
The beginning of Broken Dolls (this book) is difficult reading and my heart literally broke for Harper with everything that she went through to get some semblance of herself back. The first few chapters of this book definitely take you on an emotional roller coaster with Harper. Im still struggling with the fact that i felt Harper didnt get any proper revenge. It least i didnt think so. I was wanting her to get a little bit bloody (yes im a little bloodthirsty but only in regards to books) and yeah to a certain degree she did but to me it wasnt enough. Royal and his brothers got off way too easy.
I didnt get the whole angst or feelings of betrayal that Royal thought he felt? Almost like it gave him a free pass to do what he did. It didnt. Even so i did feel that we got to know a little bit more about Royal in this book but it didnt excuse him. This power struggle/one-upmanship that he has with Preston just came across as two spoiled brats to me. Mr D was a surprise too. I didnt see that coming
I did like how Harper refused to go down without a fight though. She made sure they knew just how much stronger than them she was. I have so much going on in my head after reading this book. Like whether i love or hate this book? Im still not convinced about some of the characters but Harper is just a brilliant one. So im reading this mainly for her but Cole, Gloria, Dixie and Gideon (i want to just hug him) are good too. That ending was jaw dropping good. I cant wait to see how this series ends now
November 13, 2023
In my view there’s NO coming back from what happened in the end of book 3 Boys Club!
Somehow without going into the details of the book, after all that happen, Royal did realize how MUCH he actually loves her. TOO LATE in my opinion. He does suffer a lot , NOT ENOUGH in my opinion. He does go to the swamp every day trying to find anything about her. After 6 months she is back and BROKEN completely out , no fight left in her, a ghost. He goes after her and she tries to kill herself twice. He saves her once and Preston saves her the other. She has nothing left. He is determined to prove to her that he loves her, without saying, with actions. It is beautiful and he does things you like and makes you feel a little , but every time you remember you can’t help but HATE him. Twins still Evil without consequences.
Likes :
- Harper
- her recovery
- her capacity to understand and forgive
- her determination to end the war between families
- back plot
- Colt
- Preston
- their love is beautiful despite everything
Dislikes :
- Royal most of the time (sometimes you like him) but he is not relatable
- author’s fixation with rape
- unforgivable rape act
- twins
- dad
- her reference to “girls like us” meaning trash worst of society, when poverty is their sin ! COME ON ! Such a wrong message
- no consequences for twins
- even with everything Royal does , and it is beautiful. You still can’t really forgive him. What HE MADE IT HAPPEN is unforgivable. He ordered , he watched, he heard her cries and pleas. UN-FUCKING-BELIEVABLE, UNFORGETTABLE, UNFORGIVABLE and UNIMAGINABLE!
Somehow without going into the details of the book, after all that happen, Royal did realize how MUCH he actually loves her. TOO LATE in my opinion. He does suffer a lot , NOT ENOUGH in my opinion. He does go to the swamp every day trying to find anything about her. After 6 months she is back and BROKEN completely out , no fight left in her, a ghost. He goes after her and she tries to kill herself twice. He saves her once and Preston saves her the other. She has nothing left. He is determined to prove to her that he loves her, without saying, with actions. It is beautiful and he does things you like and makes you feel a little , but every time you remember you can’t help but HATE him. Twins still Evil without consequences.
Likes :
- Harper
- her recovery
- her capacity to understand and forgive
- her determination to end the war between families
- back plot
- Colt
- Preston
- their love is beautiful despite everything
Dislikes :
- Royal most of the time (sometimes you like him) but he is not relatable
- author’s fixation with rape
- unforgivable rape act
- twins
- dad
- her reference to “girls like us” meaning trash worst of society, when poverty is their sin ! COME ON ! Such a wrong message
- no consequences for twins
- even with everything Royal does , and it is beautiful. You still can’t really forgive him. What HE MADE IT HAPPEN is unforgivable. He ordered , he watched, he heard her cries and pleas. UN-FUCKING-BELIEVABLE, UNFORGETTABLE, UNFORGIVABLE and UNIMAGINABLE!
May 13, 2023
No. A BIG FREAKING NO. I only freaking read this because I hoped like a fool for another MC to appear or for her to execute her vengeance like never before...NOT TO FREAKING GET BACK WITH HIM.
FL didn’t just get rapped, she got R.A.I.L.E.D in the previous book and what is this author selling me… FL is walking all fine and is able to be in the presence of her rapists several weeks after the incident that shattered everything of her AND cerise sur ceriseeee even gets jelly belly when the ML (who fucking allowed her to get raped and killed) gets close to another girl. I AM SOOOO DISGUSTED. How can she feel anything romantic/any attraction for Royal, ughhh i have no words to express what this does to me. REPULSIVE.
Royal helps her heal...to get back her power over her rapists...WTFFF WTFFFF HE IS THE MASTERMIND BEHIND THE FREAKING RAPE.
I read only until the part where she gets back at her rapists, but the moment she showed gratitude towards Royal for this...DNF DNFFFF, HOW THE F CAN A RAPE SURVIVOR KNOWING FULLY WELL WHO DID WHAT EXACTLY BEHAVE THE WAY SHE DOES.
She by no means is behaving like a rape survivor, her act of bravo and « i am stronger than all of this »….what a bullcrap!!! She just slapped all the real rape survivors. The author showed so much inconsideration with this type of growth/bullcrap healing...
WORSE THEN EVERYTHING I COULD HAVE IMAGINED FOR THE REMAINING OF THIS BOOK.
FL didn’t just get rapped, she got R.A.I.L.E.D in the previous book and what is this author selling me… FL is walking all fine and is able to be in the presence of her rapists several weeks after the incident that shattered everything of her AND cerise sur ceriseeee even gets jelly belly when the ML (who fucking allowed her to get raped and killed) gets close to another girl. I AM SOOOO DISGUSTED. How can she feel anything romantic/any attraction for Royal, ughhh i have no words to express what this does to me. REPULSIVE.
Royal helps her heal...to get back her power over her rapists...WTFFF WTFFFF HE IS THE MASTERMIND BEHIND THE FREAKING RAPE.
I read only until the part where she gets back at her rapists, but the moment she showed gratitude towards Royal for this...DNF DNFFFF, HOW THE F CAN A RAPE SURVIVOR KNOWING FULLY WELL WHO DID WHAT EXACTLY BEHAVE THE WAY SHE DOES.
She by no means is behaving like a rape survivor, her act of bravo and « i am stronger than all of this »….what a bullcrap!!! She just slapped all the real rape survivors. The author showed so much inconsideration with this type of growth/bullcrap healing...
WORSE THEN EVERYTHING I COULD HAVE IMAGINED FOR THE REMAINING OF THIS BOOK.
July 2, 2021
How do you get back to normal after that ending‼️‼️‼️
Not gonna lie, I don't believe anything will be normal for this couple after what happened. It will take about 8 more books for there to be any sign of forgiveness
Not gonna lie, I don't believe anything will be normal for this couple after what happened. It will take about 8 more books for there to be any sign of forgiveness
March 30, 2022
This was absolutely disgusting to read. *Spoilers Ahead*
Not only does this book glorify gang rape it also hopes that the mc magically becomes all better after a random dude repeatedly rapes her and throws some money on her. The author really thought that calling this dark romance would excuse everything that she puts in the book. This was a horrifying read and i dropped it after a couple chapters.
I am definitely burning this book. Disgusting.
Not only does this book glorify gang rape it also hopes that the mc magically becomes all better after a random dude repeatedly rapes her and throws some money on her. The author really thought that calling this dark romance would excuse everything that she puts in the book. This was a horrifying read and i dropped it after a couple chapters.
I am definitely burning this book. Disgusting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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