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Westlake Royals #1
Beautiful Storm
He ruined me. Now, it’s my turn…
Atticus Rainier is an intoxicating monster.
The boy who was off limits was once my everything.
Then, the truth came out, and he broke me.
He called me a beautiful liar and walked away without a glance back.
But that naïve fourteen-year-old girl is gone.
The last four years have given me time to see what he really is.
A beautiful storm.
And I won’t be sucked into the vicious vortex that is Atticus again.
Instead, I’ll drown him in his own malice.
And once I shatter his soul, I’ll discard him…
The same way he did to me.
Beautiful Storm is the first book of the duet The Ruin of Liars following Atticus and Lili. This book is a mature new dark, college bully, new adult read, featuring a spicy, slow burn, enemies-to-lovers romance with a hint of mystery, a ton of heat, and plenty of angst to go around. This book is not a standalone, and continues in book two, Beautiful Chaos.
Atticus Rainier is an intoxicating monster.
The boy who was off limits was once my everything.
Then, the truth came out, and he broke me.
He called me a beautiful liar and walked away without a glance back.
But that naïve fourteen-year-old girl is gone.
The last four years have given me time to see what he really is.
A beautiful storm.
And I won’t be sucked into the vicious vortex that is Atticus again.
Instead, I’ll drown him in his own malice.
And once I shatter his soul, I’ll discard him…
The same way he did to me.
Beautiful Storm is the first book of the duet The Ruin of Liars following Atticus and Lili. This book is a mature new dark, college bully, new adult read, featuring a spicy, slow burn, enemies-to-lovers romance with a hint of mystery, a ton of heat, and plenty of angst to go around. This book is not a standalone, and continues in book two, Beautiful Chaos.
Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 9, 2023
Beautiful Storm by Jaime Ellis is the First book in the Westlake Royals. This starts the Duet of Atticus and Lili. At one time they where friends a little bit more. But then something happened. Lili left and things just went dark for Atticus. Now Atticus is attending college and Lili reappears. This starts their story and this book does end with a cliffhanger setting us up for more in their story.
February 9, 2023
To say that I RAN for this book after finishing Beautiful Liar is an understatement. That prequel left my heart in tatters and I needed to know how things were going to play out.
And holy cow, even the million different scenarios I had running through my mind came close to the Lili that arrived on the scene 4 years after the night that changed everything. I wasn’t surprised with who Atticus grew up to be but Lili was a different story. I was utterly shocked with how things first unfolded between Lili and Atticus but I was also thoroughly amused and beyond proud of her.
As the story continued and flashbacks came through things started to make sense and my heart hurt all over again. The push and pull between these two people who were once so close but then had the rug ripped out from under their feet was intense.
I’ll be honest and admit that I did a bit of arguing with Lili towards the end of this book. I am eagerly awaiting the next book because I have high expectations for her and I was ready to shake her when this one ended.
And holy cow, even the million different scenarios I had running through my mind came close to the Lili that arrived on the scene 4 years after the night that changed everything. I wasn’t surprised with who Atticus grew up to be but Lili was a different story. I was utterly shocked with how things first unfolded between Lili and Atticus but I was also thoroughly amused and beyond proud of her.
As the story continued and flashbacks came through things started to make sense and my heart hurt all over again. The push and pull between these two people who were once so close but then had the rug ripped out from under their feet was intense.
I’ll be honest and admit that I did a bit of arguing with Lili towards the end of this book. I am eagerly awaiting the next book because I have high expectations for her and I was ready to shake her when this one ended.
February 10, 2023
Woah! There was a lot happening in this story. So much that I didn't want to put it down.
Atticus and Lili's run-ins gave me emotional whiplash in the best way. Between the barbs and cruel words, you could feel the connection that still existed between them, despite all the hurt and grief in their history.
I truly adored the push and pull, the thin line between love and hate, the competitiveness and the heat of their story.
I can only hope that in their conclusion they have grown from this experience and find a way to bury all of their past sins.
4.5 stars
Atticus and Lili's run-ins gave me emotional whiplash in the best way. Between the barbs and cruel words, you could feel the connection that still existed between them, despite all the hurt and grief in their history.
I truly adored the push and pull, the thin line between love and hate, the competitiveness and the heat of their story.
I can only hope that in their conclusion they have grown from this experience and find a way to bury all of their past sins.
4.5 stars
February 6, 2023
“I was his apocalypse.”
Second chance romances are my weakness, and Beautiful Storm was my kryptonite, pulling me into its twisted web where my heart had no choice but to beat in tune to every word of this romance. Dark, gripping, heartrending, and terrifyingly smart, this book grabbed me from the first page—and never let me go. I was a goner for this romance! Hook. Line. Sinker.
Readers will fall for this brutally beautiful and sinfully sexy saga of a dark prince and bold queen caught in a cat and mouse game of predator and prey, willing to do whatever it takes to feel the heart-thrashing high that is each other. I fell for the warrior beauty and the savage beast, and their heated and heady banter. Atticus and Lili have such a deep history, a path forged of love and hate, and I was here for it all.
Beautiful Storm is a heady mix of savage, scorching and sweet with all the hate-love vibes, and I devoured every bit. This romance with made my heart race while setting my body on fire. An emotionally explosive hit of heart, heat, and harrowing intensity, Beautiful Storm rendered me breathless and begging for more. I can’t wait to see how this saga ends.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ scorching stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/3jwx6u7
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
Second chance romances are my weakness, and Beautiful Storm was my kryptonite, pulling me into its twisted web where my heart had no choice but to beat in tune to every word of this romance. Dark, gripping, heartrending, and terrifyingly smart, this book grabbed me from the first page—and never let me go. I was a goner for this romance! Hook. Line. Sinker.
Readers will fall for this brutally beautiful and sinfully sexy saga of a dark prince and bold queen caught in a cat and mouse game of predator and prey, willing to do whatever it takes to feel the heart-thrashing high that is each other. I fell for the warrior beauty and the savage beast, and their heated and heady banter. Atticus and Lili have such a deep history, a path forged of love and hate, and I was here for it all.
Beautiful Storm is a heady mix of savage, scorching and sweet with all the hate-love vibes, and I devoured every bit. This romance with made my heart race while setting my body on fire. An emotionally explosive hit of heart, heat, and harrowing intensity, Beautiful Storm rendered me breathless and begging for more. I can’t wait to see how this saga ends.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ scorching stars
➡️ https://amzn.to/3jwx6u7
Reviewed on behalf of Bookalicious Babes Blog
February 20, 2023
Atticus Rainier was a sophomore at Westlake University and thought higher education was a joke. Especially attending Westlake University which was a family tradition that basically gave him a VIP pass for everything from getting out of jail or getting that unattainable job. Especially since it was only an hour from his childhood home.
He was just coming to the intersection and had to slam on brakes as a vintage Camaro decided to cut directly in front of him and to make things even worst they slowed down coming onto a green light only to speed through when the light turned yellow ensuring he couldn't make the light. Then he arrives at the college to find that the jerk was parked in his reserved space...with a freshman sticker on the bumper.
When he catches up with his best friends, Canon and Silas, a girl cuts in front of them and races ahead. He couldn't take his eyes off her, but when he tried to catch up to get her number she headed for the ladies' room and he was running late for class. He decided that he would wait in the same hallway in the morning and try to catch her.
Arriving at his second class he is setting up his music when he sees the same woman speaking to the conductor. He still hasn't seen her face, but when he hears her voice it sounds familiar and when she tells him her name his heart stops. Lili...but why would she be giving a different last name? And why would she dare show her face in his school?
Lili...his childhood best friend, his first crush, the reason he now had a heart of stone. The reason his mother is dead.
Lili had deliberately come back to be a thorn in his side and take everything from Atticus and his father...just as they had taken everything away from her. She had backed out of her plan last semester because she still had butterflies when she saw him, but after watching him the Atticus that she had known four years ago no longer existed. He had turned into a man she could never love. Cold and domineering. Using girls before tossing them aside.
And the final nail that destroyed that love was the last words he spoke to her on that horrid night four years ago that ruined her life. But, she was back and with a plan. Atticus and his father would pay.
I loved this story! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Lili had seen their parents in a compromising position and was trying to think of a way to tell Atticus when there were screams from his house and then it was too late to tell him. When he realized that Lili knew that his father was having an affair with her mother and hadn't told him he turned his back on her.
This story is action-packed from page one and will keep you turning the pages as both Atticus and Lili are determined to ruin the other's life due to one night of tragedy. Fair warning there is a near rape scene that may be a trigger for some, but that scene is also a clarifying moment for Atticus.
This is book one of Atticus and Lili's story and doesn't have a major cliffhanger, but leaves you with some questions about her foster mother which had teased along throughout the story. Who did she see? Why did she adopt Lili? And most importantly, what is she gaining from Lili's vendetta?
Highly recommend!
He was just coming to the intersection and had to slam on brakes as a vintage Camaro decided to cut directly in front of him and to make things even worst they slowed down coming onto a green light only to speed through when the light turned yellow ensuring he couldn't make the light. Then he arrives at the college to find that the jerk was parked in his reserved space...with a freshman sticker on the bumper.
When he catches up with his best friends, Canon and Silas, a girl cuts in front of them and races ahead. He couldn't take his eyes off her, but when he tried to catch up to get her number she headed for the ladies' room and he was running late for class. He decided that he would wait in the same hallway in the morning and try to catch her.
Arriving at his second class he is setting up his music when he sees the same woman speaking to the conductor. He still hasn't seen her face, but when he hears her voice it sounds familiar and when she tells him her name his heart stops. Lili...but why would she be giving a different last name? And why would she dare show her face in his school?
Lili...his childhood best friend, his first crush, the reason he now had a heart of stone. The reason his mother is dead.
Lili had deliberately come back to be a thorn in his side and take everything from Atticus and his father...just as they had taken everything away from her. She had backed out of her plan last semester because she still had butterflies when she saw him, but after watching him the Atticus that she had known four years ago no longer existed. He had turned into a man she could never love. Cold and domineering. Using girls before tossing them aside.
And the final nail that destroyed that love was the last words he spoke to her on that horrid night four years ago that ruined her life. But, she was back and with a plan. Atticus and his father would pay.
I loved this story! It is very well written and the characters are fully developed and relatable. Lili had seen their parents in a compromising position and was trying to think of a way to tell Atticus when there were screams from his house and then it was too late to tell him. When he realized that Lili knew that his father was having an affair with her mother and hadn't told him he turned his back on her.
This story is action-packed from page one and will keep you turning the pages as both Atticus and Lili are determined to ruin the other's life due to one night of tragedy. Fair warning there is a near rape scene that may be a trigger for some, but that scene is also a clarifying moment for Atticus.
This is book one of Atticus and Lili's story and doesn't have a major cliffhanger, but leaves you with some questions about her foster mother which had teased along throughout the story. Who did she see? Why did she adopt Lili? And most importantly, what is she gaining from Lili's vendetta?
Highly recommend!
March 5, 2023
Pretty good
I’m only giving this 4 stars because the story felt rushed and I like extra details I suppose. Also it is very similar to another story I read on Amazon and I don’t know how much a coincidence that is. But it is a good story nonetheless.
I’m only giving this 4 stars because the story felt rushed and I like extra details I suppose. Also it is very similar to another story I read on Amazon and I don’t know how much a coincidence that is. But it is a good story nonetheless.
June 28, 2023
♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
February 11, 2023
Be prepared to take a mins trip that is going to mess with your head and your heart! This college bully romance is going to make you want to throw your kindle across the room because these characters have a lot of angst, frustration, emotions, and a lot of unfinished business between them.
Atticus is the image of the American boy. He’s had everything handed to him and he can do no wrong. He wants for nothing and can have anyone he wants except for the one girl who got under his skin as kids and has never left his thoughts or his plots for revenge. She is the reason his entire life imploded and now people he love will never be the same!
Lili should have stayed away but she’s been plotting and planning to bring down Atticus because he’s taken everything for her. He used to be her best friend but now he is the enemy. She knows what she must do to get justice for herself and others but when he is around her all she can do is try to fight the urge to be with him. He has this pull that she can’t deny but will not let him jeopardize her future. He’s already ruined her past and all her happy childhood memories. However, they both realize how much each other has changed but there is still something there but can she allow him in or find a way to forgive him?? This game was suppose to be her salvation and now it might be her downfall.
This is a powerful story and the characters will pull you in and make you their greatest fan one minute and kind of hate them the next but that’s what makes this such a powerful book. Be prepared because their conclusion is in the next book so some answers will remain unresolved and they are going to be explosive when it all comes to a head. Happy Reading!!
Atticus is the image of the American boy. He’s had everything handed to him and he can do no wrong. He wants for nothing and can have anyone he wants except for the one girl who got under his skin as kids and has never left his thoughts or his plots for revenge. She is the reason his entire life imploded and now people he love will never be the same!
Lili should have stayed away but she’s been plotting and planning to bring down Atticus because he’s taken everything for her. He used to be her best friend but now he is the enemy. She knows what she must do to get justice for herself and others but when he is around her all she can do is try to fight the urge to be with him. He has this pull that she can’t deny but will not let him jeopardize her future. He’s already ruined her past and all her happy childhood memories. However, they both realize how much each other has changed but there is still something there but can she allow him in or find a way to forgive him?? This game was suppose to be her salvation and now it might be her downfall.
This is a powerful story and the characters will pull you in and make you their greatest fan one minute and kind of hate them the next but that’s what makes this such a powerful book. Be prepared because their conclusion is in the next book so some answers will remain unresolved and they are going to be explosive when it all comes to a head. Happy Reading!!
February 10, 2023
Intense Start To Lili and Atticus’s Duet!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review
Jaime Ellis is a new to me author and after reading this book I will most definitely be reading more of her work. This is book one of Atticus and Lili’s Duet within the Westlake Royals series. And let me tell you it was one heck of an emotional rollercoaster ride of epic proportions.
Lili and Atticus know each other from way back they were best friends and inseparable. Lili was fourteen he was her everything. But when truths came to light feeling betrayed he breaks her by walking away from her. It’s been four years since then and now it’s her time to make him feel what she felt back then. Even with the tension and everything going on between these two their chemistry remains intense and the push and pull between them is off the charts. Their story is definitely a must read and I highly recommend the prequel Beautiful Liar to be read first.
This book will keep you thoroughly entertained and on the edge of your seat. This is a love and war, spicy slow burn, college bully, enemies to lovers romance all the way. The love and hate back and forth we get from them, and the views we get into what happened between these two will totally have your emotions all over the place. I seriously can’t wait to read book two and see if these two finally work through everything and that they can finally have a HEA. Definitely recommend this book, duet and series. A must read for sure.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review
Jaime Ellis is a new to me author and after reading this book I will most definitely be reading more of her work. This is book one of Atticus and Lili’s Duet within the Westlake Royals series. And let me tell you it was one heck of an emotional rollercoaster ride of epic proportions.
Lili and Atticus know each other from way back they were best friends and inseparable. Lili was fourteen he was her everything. But when truths came to light feeling betrayed he breaks her by walking away from her. It’s been four years since then and now it’s her time to make him feel what she felt back then. Even with the tension and everything going on between these two their chemistry remains intense and the push and pull between them is off the charts. Their story is definitely a must read and I highly recommend the prequel Beautiful Liar to be read first.
This book will keep you thoroughly entertained and on the edge of your seat. This is a love and war, spicy slow burn, college bully, enemies to lovers romance all the way. The love and hate back and forth we get from them, and the views we get into what happened between these two will totally have your emotions all over the place. I seriously can’t wait to read book two and see if these two finally work through everything and that they can finally have a HEA. Definitely recommend this book, duet and series. A must read for sure.
February 16, 2023
Man what an intense full of down right angst that you could practically feel pouring off the pages between Lili and Atticus. Tsk tsk I swear just what was he thinking with his crazy ass schemes to force Lili to leave Westlake once he realizes that after 4 years she's back and she's got to go, because he knows he's not strong enough to withstand her power over him.
I cannot tell you just how good this book was you just need to grab it and find out. This does end on a cliffhanger, but don't let that stop you. I read this in a couple of hour's, because once I got started I couldn't put it down. I need to find out what happens next, and what’s the deal with Margo? Who did she see to shock her? She's acting way to sus. Ugh so many questions I need answers to.
I cannot tell you just how good this book was you just need to grab it and find out. This does end on a cliffhanger, but don't let that stop you. I read this in a couple of hour's, because once I got started I couldn't put it down. I need to find out what happens next, and what’s the deal with Margo? Who did she see to shock her? She's acting way to sus. Ugh so many questions I need answers to.
February 4, 2023
💔⚡️Beautiful Storm⚡️💔
By Jaime Ellis
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Feelings: 💔4/5 ⚡️3/5 🌶4/5 ❤️2/5
Fantastic beginning
I've devoured this book in one sitting. The story of, or more, between Atticus and Lili is a helluva ride. Full of secrets, lies, hurt and anger. So much of all of them. A seemingly betrayal broke up the friendship between Atticus and Lili four years ago. Lili had to leave with a broken heart and without knowing what would wait for her. Four years of learning to survive, fear and going from foster home to foster home. And then, the need for retribution.
Atticus is ruthless, heartless and has no Morals. His heart went black the day he found out that his best friend seemed to have betrayed him.
But when that ex best friend suddenly reappears at Westlake his only goal is to make her leave. Surprisingly Lili isn't the girl he once knew anymore.
And so their war begins. Psychological against ruthless. Hurt against revenge.
But in their path they are close to losing themselves. Will they keep spiraling down their madness or can they pull the rug before it is too late. But what comes after the storm?
Wonderful detailed insight in the minds of these characters that will grow on you despite their, sometimes, questionable, reasons and actions. But they are real and their feelings are hurt and others buried, so you can understand them too. But there seems a lot to come in the second part of this duet. And I can't wait for their story to go on and see where it will lead to and in.
By Jaime Ellis
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Feelings: 💔4/5 ⚡️3/5 🌶4/5 ❤️2/5
Fantastic beginning
I've devoured this book in one sitting. The story of, or more, between Atticus and Lili is a helluva ride. Full of secrets, lies, hurt and anger. So much of all of them. A seemingly betrayal broke up the friendship between Atticus and Lili four years ago. Lili had to leave with a broken heart and without knowing what would wait for her. Four years of learning to survive, fear and going from foster home to foster home. And then, the need for retribution.
Atticus is ruthless, heartless and has no Morals. His heart went black the day he found out that his best friend seemed to have betrayed him.
But when that ex best friend suddenly reappears at Westlake his only goal is to make her leave. Surprisingly Lili isn't the girl he once knew anymore.
And so their war begins. Psychological against ruthless. Hurt against revenge.
But in their path they are close to losing themselves. Will they keep spiraling down their madness or can they pull the rug before it is too late. But what comes after the storm?
Wonderful detailed insight in the minds of these characters that will grow on you despite their, sometimes, questionable, reasons and actions. But they are real and their feelings are hurt and others buried, so you can understand them too. But there seems a lot to come in the second part of this duet. And I can't wait for their story to go on and see where it will lead to and in.
February 9, 2023
Title: Beautiful Storm
Author: Jaime Ellis
Format: Ebook
Genre: Dork, NA, Bully, Second Chance, Enemies to Lovers, Sports (Hockey)
Standalone: Nope - ends on a cliffhanger
Part of a Series: Book 1 of Westlake Royals
POV: Atticus, Lili
Steam Level: Slow Burn to steamy
4/5
Beautiful Storm is the first book in the Westlake Royals series.. While it does end of a cliffhanger, the cliffhanger isn't too terrible. It leaves you wanting more but no one is in peril so it's a logic place to end. While I'm not a big fan of cliffhangers, this is my favorite type. There is also a prequel which I haven't read yet but will. Atticus and Lili both have a lot of baggage and a lot to work through. I'm kind of rooting for them but also am dying to know about what secrets Lili's mom and adoptive mom are hiding. Jaime Ellis did suck me in from the start with this book and I'm excited to see how Lili and Atticus' story ends.
I received an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Author: Jaime Ellis
Format: Ebook
Genre: Dork, NA, Bully, Second Chance, Enemies to Lovers, Sports (Hockey)
Standalone: Nope - ends on a cliffhanger
Part of a Series: Book 1 of Westlake Royals
POV: Atticus, Lili
Steam Level: Slow Burn to steamy
4/5
Beautiful Storm is the first book in the Westlake Royals series.. While it does end of a cliffhanger, the cliffhanger isn't too terrible. It leaves you wanting more but no one is in peril so it's a logic place to end. While I'm not a big fan of cliffhangers, this is my favorite type. There is also a prequel which I haven't read yet but will. Atticus and Lili both have a lot of baggage and a lot to work through. I'm kind of rooting for them but also am dying to know about what secrets Lili's mom and adoptive mom are hiding. Jaime Ellis did suck me in from the start with this book and I'm excited to see how Lili and Atticus' story ends.
I received an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
February 5, 2023
ARC Review of Beautiful Storm by Jaime Ellis
* * * * *
A college friends-to-enemies romance with unresolved issues and a complicated first love history.
Atticus was doing well for himself in life. Was going to a great college, had a good car, had money and his own parking spot. Years ago he was hurt and abandoned by his best friend and first love Lili, who kept a secret that led to a domino effect of betrayal and loss and lonliness in his personal life at home.
He never wanted to see her again.
But Lili had other plans.
She is attending the same school as him now, and they are stuck in the same music program. She's pretending he doesn't exist. She's pretending she's better off without him. She's pretending she has not been through hell in the last few years. Lili wants to make it in life her way and on her own terms, proving she doesn't need money like Atticus who is a spoiled selfish brat.
Atticus needs her gone.
How far is he willing to go?
An enjoyable read that had me going back to read the first book and wanting to get to the rest of the series. A very complicated first love coming back to terrorise everything you are trying to build and forget all that hurt you in the past is like salt on a wound. So happy Lili has people in her life now that care for her after what she went through in the system. Atticus is great for standing up to his father when it comes to his passion.
* * * * *
A college friends-to-enemies romance with unresolved issues and a complicated first love history.
Atticus was doing well for himself in life. Was going to a great college, had a good car, had money and his own parking spot. Years ago he was hurt and abandoned by his best friend and first love Lili, who kept a secret that led to a domino effect of betrayal and loss and lonliness in his personal life at home.
He never wanted to see her again.
But Lili had other plans.
She is attending the same school as him now, and they are stuck in the same music program. She's pretending he doesn't exist. She's pretending she's better off without him. She's pretending she has not been through hell in the last few years. Lili wants to make it in life her way and on her own terms, proving she doesn't need money like Atticus who is a spoiled selfish brat.
Atticus needs her gone.
How far is he willing to go?
An enjoyable read that had me going back to read the first book and wanting to get to the rest of the series. A very complicated first love coming back to terrorise everything you are trying to build and forget all that hurt you in the past is like salt on a wound. So happy Lili has people in her life now that care for her after what she went through in the system. Atticus is great for standing up to his father when it comes to his passion.
February 18, 2023
Written with a certain zest that is captivating Beautiful Storm is an intense, second chance romance that stars two very attractive, fascinating people in Lili and Atticus. Their pasts have brought bitterness to their present and Lili is seeking revenge while Atticus is caught up in shock at her reappearance, her nonchalance, her strong spirit and total outrage at her consumate assurance, an assurance which becomes increasingly rattled with each battle between them.
I loved this. It's a fast paced, intriguing book which weaves a story of loss, bitterness, attraction, ambition and love. Can't wait for more! 💖💖💖💖💖
I loved this. It's a fast paced, intriguing book which weaves a story of loss, bitterness, attraction, ambition and love. Can't wait for more! 💖💖💖💖💖
February 9, 2023
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
Listen …. It was the toxicity for me. . .
I wanted to knock the main characters upside their heads, hug them, and refer them to counseling simultaneously.
This read frustrated me to no end because no one cared enough to COMMUNICATE for most of the book. And that’s a huge pet peeve of mine.
All in all this was a great enemies to lovers read.
Listen …. It was the toxicity for me. . .
I wanted to knock the main characters upside their heads, hug them, and refer them to counseling simultaneously.
This read frustrated me to no end because no one cared enough to COMMUNICATE for most of the book. And that’s a huge pet peeve of mine.
All in all this was a great enemies to lovers read.
February 10, 2023
4.5⭐️
I really liked this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat. There is a lot of stuff happening in this story. I highly recommend check TW!
I really liked this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat. There is a lot of stuff happening in this story. I highly recommend check TW!
February 7, 2023
Beautiful Storm was a fierce battle between childhood friends Lilli and Atticus. One fateful moment completely changed their trajectory as young teenagers and set them on a path of enemies instead of lovers. Years later, their paths cross at college, where that hatred is now overflowing. Lilli is back for revenge over how her life changed in that moment, while Atticus wants Lili to pay for his mother's death despite the underlying feelings they have for each other. Both embroiled in revenge, their path to destruction has little limits, but one night challenges those feelings and leaves, both wondering where does it all end and if revenge is worth it. I could definitely feel the animosity and the love to hate vibe pouring out of these two. It was excellently written and easy to dive into. This book was a slow burn, and because it's a duet, I think we will see more steam in the second book, though I wasn't upset with what we got in this one. The secondary characters have peaked my interest, which is always important in an ongoing series, particularly rose and Silas. While their is a cliffhanger it wasn't so atrocious I wanted to throw my kindle, yet made me excited for what's to come for Lili and Atticus. These characters have both been through so much heartache and pain but my favorite part was seeing how even childhood love can have so much strength even after great distances and time. Truly a well done book!
February 9, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Atticus Rainier is an intoxicating monster. The boy who was off limits was once everything. Then, the truth came out, and he broke me. He called me a beautiful liar and walked away without a glance back. But that naive fourteen-year-old girl is gone. The last four years have given me time and see what he really is. A beautiful storm. And I won't be sucked into the vicious vortex that is Atticus again. Instead, I'll drown him in his own malice. And once I shatter his soul, I'll discard him. The same way he did to me.
This is the first book in the Westlake Royals but the first book in the duet The Ruin of Liars. This is a dark bully romance. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book. It will contain triggers for some readers.
These two use to be the best of friends. However a believed betrayal tears them apart. Atticus lost his best friend that day but now he has a good life for himself. He is going to a great college has a nice car, money, and his own parking spot. He really could care less if he every sees Lili ever again. She may have been the first girl he ever loved but she kept a huge secret from him and it caused a domino affect of betrayal and loss for him. He never ever wants to see her again. However Lili has other plans. She is now going to the same school as him and as fate would have it they are in the same music program. However she is pretending that he doesn't exist and she is better off without him. Pretending her life hasn't been as horrible as it really was since they last saw each other. She is determined to make it on her own terms. Atticus may have a lot of money now but she doesn't need that in her life just like she doesn't need Atticus. This is about all I can say about this story or I am going to give something away . I loved this book. There is a lot going on but I loved every second of it. I can not wait to have the next book in my hands and find out what happens.
Atticus Rainier is an intoxicating monster. The boy who was off limits was once everything. Then, the truth came out, and he broke me. He called me a beautiful liar and walked away without a glance back. But that naive fourteen-year-old girl is gone. The last four years have given me time and see what he really is. A beautiful storm. And I won't be sucked into the vicious vortex that is Atticus again. Instead, I'll drown him in his own malice. And once I shatter his soul, I'll discard him. The same way he did to me.
This is the first book in the Westlake Royals but the first book in the duet The Ruin of Liars. This is a dark bully romance. You will want to heed the warnings in the beginning of the book. It will contain triggers for some readers.
These two use to be the best of friends. However a believed betrayal tears them apart. Atticus lost his best friend that day but now he has a good life for himself. He is going to a great college has a nice car, money, and his own parking spot. He really could care less if he every sees Lili ever again. She may have been the first girl he ever loved but she kept a huge secret from him and it caused a domino affect of betrayal and loss for him. He never ever wants to see her again. However Lili has other plans. She is now going to the same school as him and as fate would have it they are in the same music program. However she is pretending that he doesn't exist and she is better off without him. Pretending her life hasn't been as horrible as it really was since they last saw each other. She is determined to make it on her own terms. Atticus may have a lot of money now but she doesn't need that in her life just like she doesn't need Atticus. This is about all I can say about this story or I am going to give something away . I loved this book. There is a lot going on but I loved every second of it. I can not wait to have the next book in my hands and find out what happens.
March 9, 2023
Four years after the heartache of betrayal, hurt, anger and terrible emotional pain where it ended in Beautiful Liar, Lili and Atticus are together again on their college campus. It has been a difficult 4 years for Lili, hardening her heart to protect herself, and plotting her revenge against Atticus and his father, blaming them for the hurt and regret for both Lili and her mother. Atticus has used the same 4 years to harden his heart, to blame Lili for her silence, blame his father and her mother for their affair, and to blame himself for his mother’s death—if Lili had told him, he might have been in time to save his mom from the discovery and her death.
Now, Lilli is determined to do whatever she can to destroy Atticus at school—his reputation, grade point, position on the hockey team, hopefully get him kicked out, and she has a plan to do it, much like a general planning a campaign.
Atticus also has a plan of innuendo, misinformation, threats and blackmail to drive Lili from campus.
Both are so focused on the destruction of the other, the left-over pull of their younger lives is pushed out of mind or questioned when doubts do arise, until it can’t be ignored any longer, but with unforeseen consequences. Whether the two will finally find a way back to each other will need to wait for the next book, Beautiful Chaos.
These characters continued to pull me along on their journey, seeing all the missed chances to talk to each other and process the pain each caused the other, instead putting all their energies into destroying the person that had been their other half before it all fell apart. Both became stronger in some ways, but they they were weaker in not trying to process their hurt and anger in ways which could have helped them return to what they both missed so desperately.
An engrossing read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Now, Lilli is determined to do whatever she can to destroy Atticus at school—his reputation, grade point, position on the hockey team, hopefully get him kicked out, and she has a plan to do it, much like a general planning a campaign.
Atticus also has a plan of innuendo, misinformation, threats and blackmail to drive Lili from campus.
Both are so focused on the destruction of the other, the left-over pull of their younger lives is pushed out of mind or questioned when doubts do arise, until it can’t be ignored any longer, but with unforeseen consequences. Whether the two will finally find a way back to each other will need to wait for the next book, Beautiful Chaos.
These characters continued to pull me along on their journey, seeing all the missed chances to talk to each other and process the pain each caused the other, instead putting all their energies into destroying the person that had been their other half before it all fell apart. Both became stronger in some ways, but they they were weaker in not trying to process their hurt and anger in ways which could have helped them return to what they both missed so desperately.
An engrossing read.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2023
Once upon on a time Atticus Rainier was her everything, but these days he is considered the enemy... an enemy that she fully intends on taking down, one heartbreaking piece at a time. What he did to her all those years ago is completely unforgiveable, he shattered every part of her life and turned his back on her when she needed him the most. Four years have passed since they last laid eyes on one another, but now they are on the same campus, in some of the same classes, and are bound to run into one another... it's an emotional disaster waiting to happen!
Beautiful Storm is dark and edgy romance that will have you at it's mercy within a few sentences, it's exquisitely penned words make it impossible to pry your eyes from the pages! It's an intoxicating mix of mystery, angst, passion, revenge, and hate... these two bring it all to the pages and leave you craving more!
The moment I met these two I found myself completely taken with them, their so well drawn that you'll feel like you actually know them, your heart will break for them, and their story will torture you in all the best ways. I cannot wait to see where the pages of the next installment lead these two, after that ending I'm dying to find out if they get a happily ever after... cause lord knows they need one!! Highly recommend!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
Beautiful Storm is dark and edgy romance that will have you at it's mercy within a few sentences, it's exquisitely penned words make it impossible to pry your eyes from the pages! It's an intoxicating mix of mystery, angst, passion, revenge, and hate... these two bring it all to the pages and leave you craving more!
The moment I met these two I found myself completely taken with them, their so well drawn that you'll feel like you actually know them, your heart will break for them, and their story will torture you in all the best ways. I cannot wait to see where the pages of the next installment lead these two, after that ending I'm dying to find out if they get a happily ever after... cause lord knows they need one!! Highly recommend!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 8, 2023
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆ Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Angst: 💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ❌️
Do I recommend? ✅️
Tropes: bully romance, college, enemies-to-lovers, second chance, suspense
Atticus Rainier was an intoxicating monster who had ruined Lili but now, it's her turn. When she was only fourteen years old, he was her everything even though he was off limits. The truth emerged, leaving her broken. He called her a beautiful liar and walked away. The last four years have brought many truths to light. To her, he was a beautiful storm. Atticus was a vortex she needed to avoid. She will drown him in his own malice, shatter his soul and throw him away. After all, it's exactly what he did to her.
Book one of the Westlake Royals was one hell of a journey. The plot was utterly addicting and exciting. The darkness in Atticus called to me yet I couldn't help developing a little crush on Lili. She was tough as nails and determined to make him pay. The push and pull between them immediately drew me in and kept my attention to the end. I loved the cruel banter, as well as the dark and gritty way the plot was delivered. The intensity of their hate to love relationship was highly entertaining and I'm looking forward to more in this world. I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
Angst: 💔💔💔
Cliffhanger? ❌️
Do I recommend? ✅️
Tropes: bully romance, college, enemies-to-lovers, second chance, suspense
Atticus Rainier was an intoxicating monster who had ruined Lili but now, it's her turn. When she was only fourteen years old, he was her everything even though he was off limits. The truth emerged, leaving her broken. He called her a beautiful liar and walked away. The last four years have brought many truths to light. To her, he was a beautiful storm. Atticus was a vortex she needed to avoid. She will drown him in his own malice, shatter his soul and throw him away. After all, it's exactly what he did to her.
Book one of the Westlake Royals was one hell of a journey. The plot was utterly addicting and exciting. The darkness in Atticus called to me yet I couldn't help developing a little crush on Lili. She was tough as nails and determined to make him pay. The push and pull between them immediately drew me in and kept my attention to the end. I loved the cruel banter, as well as the dark and gritty way the plot was delivered. The intensity of their hate to love relationship was highly entertaining and I'm looking forward to more in this world. I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
February 10, 2023
4/5 ⭐️
1/5🌶
“I'm the beautiful liar. But you’re nothing but a beautiful storm….You’re destruction and ready to obliterate everything in your path, including me.”
This was a wonderfully heartbreaking, friends to enemies to lovers, 2nd chance romance with so much angst. It is book 1 of the Westlake Royals duet. It has bullying with a revenge plot that I feel is only the beginning to the unraveling of the history that tore Atticus and Lili apart. Near the end I found myself eating up pages filled with so much tension, and waiting for the other shoe to drop, until I saw I was at the end and was left wanting more.
The story follows Lili and Atticus, childhood best friends, until one secret tore them apart. Now, Lili is back and out for revenge, and so begins the cat and mouse games. Lili soon realizes that she may have underestimated the monster Atticus became. Throughout the book, they are constantly dancing around each other, trying to get one step ahead, while fighting the memories of their past. Right when they seem to be working towards a similar end goal more secrets surface.
1/5🌶
“I'm the beautiful liar. But you’re nothing but a beautiful storm….You’re destruction and ready to obliterate everything in your path, including me.”
This was a wonderfully heartbreaking, friends to enemies to lovers, 2nd chance romance with so much angst. It is book 1 of the Westlake Royals duet. It has bullying with a revenge plot that I feel is only the beginning to the unraveling of the history that tore Atticus and Lili apart. Near the end I found myself eating up pages filled with so much tension, and waiting for the other shoe to drop, until I saw I was at the end and was left wanting more.
The story follows Lili and Atticus, childhood best friends, until one secret tore them apart. Now, Lili is back and out for revenge, and so begins the cat and mouse games. Lili soon realizes that she may have underestimated the monster Atticus became. Throughout the book, they are constantly dancing around each other, trying to get one step ahead, while fighting the memories of their past. Right when they seem to be working towards a similar end goal more secrets surface.
February 9, 2023
4.5 Stars
I was here for Atticus and Lili's continuation to their prequel. I loved the fact that Lili was a tough cookie and was sticking to her ground and was acting oblivious to Atticus and his hatred towards her. She was at the same prestigious school as him for one thing only and that was for the same reason as Atticus, for the great performing arts program they had going.
For as much as Atticus wanted to continue hating Lili, he knew that deep down inside he just couldn't get over the fact that she meant more to him than he realized. This woman was his soulmate and it was killing him that she was acting indifferent towards him, but he was a big bully towards her as well.
Their push and pull was giving me whiplash (I swear!) But a book wouldn't be interesting if there was no drama involved correct! I was totally glued to my kindle with Atticus and Lili's story and I'm down to find out how it's going to end!
I love me a good bully college romance and this certainly gave me what I was looking for!
I was here for Atticus and Lili's continuation to their prequel. I loved the fact that Lili was a tough cookie and was sticking to her ground and was acting oblivious to Atticus and his hatred towards her. She was at the same prestigious school as him for one thing only and that was for the same reason as Atticus, for the great performing arts program they had going.
For as much as Atticus wanted to continue hating Lili, he knew that deep down inside he just couldn't get over the fact that she meant more to him than he realized. This woman was his soulmate and it was killing him that she was acting indifferent towards him, but he was a big bully towards her as well.
Their push and pull was giving me whiplash (I swear!) But a book wouldn't be interesting if there was no drama involved correct! I was totally glued to my kindle with Atticus and Lili's story and I'm down to find out how it's going to end!
I love me a good bully college romance and this certainly gave me what I was looking for!
February 19, 2023
As soon as i stumbled across the synopsis for this book, i wanted to read it! I picked it up and got right into the Westlake Royals world! I enjoyed this first installment!
This first book in Lili and Atticus's journey captured my attention! As these two and their worlds collide once again, will revenge win?
Going into this story, i didn't quite know what all to expect. I really liked how there was history between Lili and Atticus and the way they were brought back into each other's lives. From revenge to truths and their feelings, i wasn't sure how Lili and Atticus would tackle everything in this first book which got me into it it even more. These two had me feeling so many things from start to finish!
With Beautiful Storm, Ms.Ellis has created such a good and dark read that pulled me in! I can't wait to find out what happens next with these characters in the second installment, Beautiful Chaos!
Be sure to read the author's note in the synopsis.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from The Hatters Author Services / the author*
This first book in Lili and Atticus's journey captured my attention! As these two and their worlds collide once again, will revenge win?
Going into this story, i didn't quite know what all to expect. I really liked how there was history between Lili and Atticus and the way they were brought back into each other's lives. From revenge to truths and their feelings, i wasn't sure how Lili and Atticus would tackle everything in this first book which got me into it it even more. These two had me feeling so many things from start to finish!
With Beautiful Storm, Ms.Ellis has created such a good and dark read that pulled me in! I can't wait to find out what happens next with these characters in the second installment, Beautiful Chaos!
Be sure to read the author's note in the synopsis.
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from The Hatters Author Services / the author*
March 10, 2023
Beautiful Storm by Jaime Ellis is a dark romance. It's the first book from the Westlake Royals series.
This is about Atticus Rainier and Lili Colere. They used to be friends but something horrible tore them apart. Four years later Lili came back for her revenge. Both of them had changed a lot but not their feelings for each other. Her plan didn't go as she had hoped. Atticus kept hurting her and she had enough of it. She was ready to leave everything behind and focus on her future.
This is a great book. A dark college romance mixed with a second chance and enemies-to-lovers tropes. It has so much emotional turmoil and sexual attraction. The two main characters were like magnets that couldn't stay away from each other. The hate/love thing was too intense. You could practically feel their heartache. There were a couple of scenes that gutted me, I didn't expect them to act so evilly. But the ending was beautiful and left us wanting more of this couple.
I enjoyed this book and I will rate it with 4 stars.
This is about Atticus Rainier and Lili Colere. They used to be friends but something horrible tore them apart. Four years later Lili came back for her revenge. Both of them had changed a lot but not their feelings for each other. Her plan didn't go as she had hoped. Atticus kept hurting her and she had enough of it. She was ready to leave everything behind and focus on her future.
This is a great book. A dark college romance mixed with a second chance and enemies-to-lovers tropes. It has so much emotional turmoil and sexual attraction. The two main characters were like magnets that couldn't stay away from each other. The hate/love thing was too intense. You could practically feel their heartache. There were a couple of scenes that gutted me, I didn't expect them to act so evilly. But the ending was beautiful and left us wanting more of this couple.
I enjoyed this book and I will rate it with 4 stars.
September 15, 2023
*3.5 this book was very interesting I love childhood best friends to enemies to lovers and they both had every reason to hate each other in my opinion but the fmc was doing a lil too much and I want to know why bc the mmc wasn’t in the wrong and she should have told him that her mom was sleeping with his dad the moment she found out and he also had every reason to kick y’all out his house but he should have assumed that she didnt tell him to protect her mom he should have heard her out but he took it to far with what happened at the end of the book bc you should have known that they was gonna try to rape her U A DUDE and your clearly smart but you obviously lacked common sense like u didn’t tell them to do that but you should have known
but and I can’t wait to read more but does anyone have the epic of the pdf for the next book??
but and I can’t wait to read more but does anyone have the epic of the pdf for the next book??
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2023
This is the first part of a new duet, and this is Lili and Atticus’s journey. These two were torn apart by betrayal, but now Lili is back, strong, and a survivor, while Atticus is heartless and ruthless, and he will do whatever he must to get Lili to leave again, but she is anything but the girl she used to be, and she is equally determined to stay, and she is fuelled by revenge. This is a well written slow burn, fast paced story, which is dark, raw, gritty, intense, and intriguing, with truths, angst, mystery, vengeance, second chances, loss, secrets, betrayal, lies, twists, heartbreak, emotions, and retribution. I cannot wait to read the conclusion off this amazing duet.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
February 15, 2023
Trope: Second Chance
Triggers: Affair, Abuse, Suicide, Drugs
Lili Astor (Colette) was the last person that Atticus thought he would see on campus at Westlake University. They were high school sweethearts that broke each others hearts on one dreadful night. Both had held hate and grudges against each other and Lili returned to get revenge.
Atticus blamed Lili’s mom for the death of his mother and Lili blamed Atticus for abandoning her.
It’s a up and down tit for tat following their story.
Atticus is not favorite character… at all.
At the end they realized they have held onto all the hate for four years over miscommunication.
It was a good book. I would recommend it.
I was given this book as a ARC for my honest review.
Triggers: Affair, Abuse, Suicide, Drugs
Lili Astor (Colette) was the last person that Atticus thought he would see on campus at Westlake University. They were high school sweethearts that broke each others hearts on one dreadful night. Both had held hate and grudges against each other and Lili returned to get revenge.
Atticus blamed Lili’s mom for the death of his mother and Lili blamed Atticus for abandoning her.
It’s a up and down tit for tat following their story.
Atticus is not favorite character… at all.
At the end they realized they have held onto all the hate for four years over miscommunication.
It was a good book. I would recommend it.
I was given this book as a ARC for my honest review.
Read
February 28, 2023Beautiful Storm by Jaime Ellis is the 1st book in the new series, Westlake Royals. This is book 1 of a The Ruin of Liars Duet featuring of Atticus and Lili. Will need to read book 2, Beautiful Choas for conclusion.
Prequel = Beautiful Liar is highly recommended to be read prior.. this will give you insight and their backstory on how their friendship ends.
𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤/𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙚 = Atticus Rainier and Lili
𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 = Yes
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 = No b/c this is the first book of the duet.
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚(𝙨) = Dark Romance ♥ Collegiate ♥ Bully Romance ♥ slow burn ♥ friends-to-enemies-to-lovers ♥ hint of mystery ♥ Dual POVs
𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 = Language ♥ Sexual Content ♥ Please see the beginning of the book for warnings/triggers.
𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥🔥
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Prequel = Beautiful Liar is highly recommended to be read prior.. this will give you insight and their backstory on how their friendship ends.
𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤/𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙚 = Atticus Rainier and Lili
𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧 = Yes
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 = No b/c this is the first book of the duet.
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙢𝙚(𝙨) = Dark Romance ♥ Collegiate ♥ Bully Romance ♥ slow burn ♥ friends-to-enemies-to-lovers ♥ hint of mystery ♥ Dual POVs
𝙏𝙧𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧𝙨 = Language ♥ Sexual Content ♥ Please see the beginning of the book for warnings/triggers.
𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩 𝙇𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡 = 🔥🔥🔥
𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙧 𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 = ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 13, 2023
Atticus and Lili have a complicated past. One event changed the trajectory of their lives. This is the first part of their story, and it is addicting and heartbreaking as their story unfolds. This slow-burn story will pull you in from the first page to the last with all of the attraction, angst pain, and passion that a Jamie Ellis story is known for. I am personally hoping and rooting for both Atticus and Lili to find redemption, acceptance and love. ~Cindy
Wow what a way to start this series off. An intriguing story that has me wanting more and hoping I get it soon. So many questions unanswered and I'm really thinking this ending will leave me with my jaw hanging. ~Jen
Wow what a way to start this series off. An intriguing story that has me wanting more and hoping I get it soon. So many questions unanswered and I'm really thinking this ending will leave me with my jaw hanging. ~Jen
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