What do you think?
Rate this book
Royal Hearts Academy #1
Cruel Prince
Welcome to their kingdom...
I never thought I'd step foot in Royal Manor again.
But five years later, here I am...back to finish my senior year at Royal Hearts Academy.
And forced to face Jace Covington.
My first friend. First crush. First kiss.
The one I left behind.
Only—he isn't the same boy I gave my heart to.
This new Jace is as cruel as he is gorgeous.
And he's determined to make my life a living hell.
Along with the rest of his glorified family and crew of tyrants.
They expect me to worship the ground they walk on like everyone else, but I'd rather eat dirt.
If Jace Covington wants me gone...he'll have to try harder.
Because I've never been the kind of girl to play by the rules.
WARNING: Royal Hearts Academy is a New Adult/High School series of standalones filled with drama, a touch of angst, and boys who are bad to the bone.
This series is recommended for mature readers due to graphic language and sexual content.
I never thought I'd step foot in Royal Manor again.
But five years later, here I am...back to finish my senior year at Royal Hearts Academy.
And forced to face Jace Covington.
My first friend. First crush. First kiss.
The one I left behind.
Only—he isn't the same boy I gave my heart to.
This new Jace is as cruel as he is gorgeous.
And he's determined to make my life a living hell.
Along with the rest of his glorified family and crew of tyrants.
They expect me to worship the ground they walk on like everyone else, but I'd rather eat dirt.
If Jace Covington wants me gone...he'll have to try harder.
Because I've never been the kind of girl to play by the rules.
WARNING: Royal Hearts Academy is a New Adult/High School series of standalones filled with drama, a touch of angst, and boys who are bad to the bone.
This series is recommended for mature readers due to graphic language and sexual content.
402 pages, Hardcover
First published August 17, 2019
7589 people are currently reading
42930 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Jade
49 books9,723 followersLink to my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Ashley-Jade-...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,675 reviews
October 5, 2019
no no nope. there’s not enough grovelling for me to make me like both MCs.
ok so gotta admit the plot intrigued me and i read this in one sitting. i mean, ex childhood best friends turned enemies because of miscommunication and tragedy? wow. this is the shit im trash for. i imagined the angstfest in this was gonna be off the charts but not really. it did keep me hooked and the writing was great but i just couldn't handle how annoying the MCs were.
OW/OM drama
the OW drama is what ruined this for me because it lasted almost 60% of the book. i usually don't mind this kind of drama but idk, it just really bugged me here but hey, that's just me. the Hero slept with the heroine’s childhood bully (before Dylan comes back) and was hooking up with her (apparently it was only “bjs” AFTER heroine showed up but this was still ew) and shoving it in heroines face all the time. and the inner monologue bout his hookups with this OW was just yucky to read tbh. i don’t wanna hear bout this OW liking it up her butt!
this OW drama wasn’t solved satisfyingly for me. its like the heroine forgot the love of her life had sex with her tormentor plenty of times. they didn’t even discuss this. it was literally ignored and he didn’t even apologize.
yes, i get that Jace stopped sleeping with OW once Dylan arrives but he was still receiving bjs from her, so technically he was still with her. and i know this doesn’t count as cheating but i still don’t wanna know that this has been going on for at least 60% of the book. it literally diminishes my respect for both the hero (because he did this) and the heroine (because she just shrugged this off so easily and didn’t even talk to him about this when we literally spend so much time reading her POV telling us how much this hurts her).
i don’t mind OW drama but it just aggravated me here mainly because the OW was the heroine’s childhood bully and Jace KNOWS how mean she was to Dylan since he used to wipe her tears away when she was being bullied in the past. and the fact he ended it because the OW wouldn't give him a bj (the h heard their conversation)? nahhh that literally ruined his character for me.
i actually liked the OM better here (i only liked the way he treats the heroine when he didn’t show his true colors but i obviously don’t like his character) but nope just gotta make him the villain. yes, i know this OM is one of the main reasons as to why that tragic event occurred so some might think Jace had it worse in terms of this OW/OM drama emotionally and that’s true. this OM deserved hell.
though, what bothered me about this whole OW/OM drama is the intent here. Jace INTENDED to hurt Dylan and he actually slept with this OW pre-Dylan plenty of times, whereas Dylan only hung out with OM and kissed him a few time to get over Jace because he was being an asshole.
Jace saw Dylan and OW kiss just once, whereas Dylan saw them kiss plenty of times (more telling than showing), knows they were f buddies, saw them come down the stairs from a party and Jace was fixing his belt (kinda obvious what happened there), etc.
soo i don’t know if it’s because we get more Dylan POVs or because this drama lasted a long time could’ve been easily solved or that i feel so disconnected/unsympathetic towards present-Jace or that this issue wasn’t talked about or resolved satisfyingly even though it was one of the main dramas, but i really think that in terms of OW/OM drama, Dylan definitely had it worse.
Jace (H):
he tripped heroine, spread rumors about her sleeping with her cousin, basically told everyone in the school her dad was in jail, humiliated her, said mean things to her, the OW drama. honestly, my words probably don’t do justice to the shit he put her through but trust me, Jace was a jerk.
listen, i have a soft spot and love/hate relationship with asshole/bully heroes (fictional only! assholes in real life can go f themselves) and these type of heroes only work for me if i can actually feel their pain, remorse, and regret towards every shitty thing they've done to the heroine. Jace felt no remorse and didn’t apologize AT ALL (at least Dylan’s cousin apologized!!) he grovelled at the end for, like, one chapter and when they finally became a couple, BAM epilogue time. yeah... i don't really think his redemption arc worked for me.
and the fact he lost his sweet brother, Liam (best character in this book), was heartbreaking but i just couldn’t connect with him because he barely has any chapters with his POV. i just needed MORE from Jace in the present time. i sympathized with his character more (i’m not heartless after all) in the past than the present because in the present, we spent most of the time reading his POV about him wanting to hurt Dylan, him being with Britney (OW) and the "things" they used to do, and that’s most of it. again, i just needed more and he was just so unlikable to me because of this.
Dylan (h):
don’t get me started on this girl. let’s just say she forgives him too easily when he seduces her because omg wow "abs" , and honestly, not even surprised. this is a trend in almost alot bully/enemies to lovers romance. sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. only works for me if im actually rooting for the couple.
this is another case where heroine pretends she’s all strong and brave but turns into a weak and horny person once the hero/bully gives her some attention. i hate this.
again, i understand that Dylan probably saw through Jace’s anger and resentment and saw that he was in pain so that’s why she did most of the chasing but this action just came off as her being a doormat. i mean, what would i think about that scene where she was humiliated by Jace in front of the whole school, revealing her secret which ended up with her beating up her step-cousin, then Jace dragging her into a closet, and once Jace starts to touch her, she immediately gives in and literally BEGS him to fuck her after he admitted he was the one doing all the bullying? this scene did not make sense at all and it just left me frustrated because i was literally cheering for her when she was beating up Oakley a couple of pages ago.
what i liked:
- the author’s writing. it was great and i was hooked from the start
- Dylan beating up her step-cousin
- the grovelling scene at the end (but it wasn’t enough to satisfy me tbh)
- and my sweet Liam (H little brother), omfg i loved him he was the best and he deserved the world.
- Sawyer (h friend).
- Oakley (h step-cousin) when he wasn’t an ass and apologized to Dylan for being one.
“I lost you once…and I’ll burn the whole fucking world to the ground before I ever make that mistake again.”
the "moments" i was looking for that should’ve been present in the book more than the OW drama is the last 6%. we spend more time reading bout them being enemies and them being immature than them being a couple, being mature and working things out and emotionally connecting again... how can i be satisfied with this book when it left me frustrated with both MCs?
again, this is another case of the characters impacting my enjoyment and that's why i gave this a low rating but i know a lot of people love this. i really like the story and some of the side characters, so i still recommend this but i just can't with characters... but am i gonna read the next book tho? yes because i love Sawyer so i can’t wait to read her book!
ok so gotta admit the plot intrigued me and i read this in one sitting. i mean, ex childhood best friends turned enemies because of miscommunication and tragedy? wow. this is the shit im trash for. i imagined the angstfest in this was gonna be off the charts but not really. it did keep me hooked and the writing was great but i just couldn't handle how annoying the MCs were.
OW/OM drama
the OW drama is what ruined this for me because it lasted almost 60% of the book. i usually don't mind this kind of drama but idk, it just really bugged me here but hey, that's just me. the Hero slept with the heroine’s childhood bully (before Dylan comes back) and was hooking up with her (apparently it was only “bjs” AFTER heroine showed up but this was still ew) and shoving it in heroines face all the time. and the inner monologue bout his hookups with this OW was just yucky to read tbh. i don’t wanna hear bout this OW liking it up her butt!
this OW drama wasn’t solved satisfyingly for me. its like the heroine forgot the love of her life had sex with her tormentor plenty of times. they didn’t even discuss this. it was literally ignored and he didn’t even apologize.
yes, i get that Jace stopped sleeping with OW once Dylan arrives but he was still receiving bjs from her, so technically he was still with her. and i know this doesn’t count as cheating but i still don’t wanna know that this has been going on for at least 60% of the book. it literally diminishes my respect for both the hero (because he did this) and the heroine (because she just shrugged this off so easily and didn’t even talk to him about this when we literally spend so much time reading her POV telling us how much this hurts her).
i don’t mind OW drama but it just aggravated me here mainly because the OW was the heroine’s childhood bully and Jace KNOWS how mean she was to Dylan since he used to wipe her tears away when she was being bullied in the past. and the fact he ended it because the OW wouldn't give him a bj (the h heard their conversation)? nahhh that literally ruined his character for me.
i actually liked the OM better here (i only liked the way he treats the heroine when he didn’t show his true colors but i obviously don’t like his character) but nope just gotta make him the villain. yes, i know this OM is one of the main reasons as to why that tragic event occurred so some might think Jace had it worse in terms of this OW/OM drama emotionally and that’s true. this OM deserved hell.
though, what bothered me about this whole OW/OM drama is the intent here. Jace INTENDED to hurt Dylan and he actually slept with this OW pre-Dylan plenty of times, whereas Dylan only hung out with OM and kissed him a few time to get over Jace because he was being an asshole.
Jace saw Dylan and OW kiss just once, whereas Dylan saw them kiss plenty of times (more telling than showing), knows they were f buddies, saw them come down the stairs from a party and Jace was fixing his belt (kinda obvious what happened there), etc.
soo i don’t know if it’s because we get more Dylan POVs or because this drama lasted a long time could’ve been easily solved or that i feel so disconnected/unsympathetic towards present-Jace or that this issue wasn’t talked about or resolved satisfyingly even though it was one of the main dramas, but i really think that in terms of OW/OM drama, Dylan definitely had it worse.
Jace (H):
he tripped heroine, spread rumors about her sleeping with her cousin, basically told everyone in the school her dad was in jail, humiliated her, said mean things to her, the OW drama. honestly, my words probably don’t do justice to the shit he put her through but trust me, Jace was a jerk.
listen, i have a soft spot and love/hate relationship with asshole/bully heroes (fictional only! assholes in real life can go f themselves) and these type of heroes only work for me if i can actually feel their pain, remorse, and regret towards every shitty thing they've done to the heroine. Jace felt no remorse and didn’t apologize AT ALL (at least Dylan’s cousin apologized!!) he grovelled at the end for, like, one chapter and when they finally became a couple, BAM epilogue time. yeah... i don't really think his redemption arc worked for me.
and the fact he lost his sweet brother, Liam (best character in this book), was heartbreaking but i just couldn’t connect with him because he barely has any chapters with his POV. i just needed MORE from Jace in the present time. i sympathized with his character more (i’m not heartless after all) in the past than the present because in the present, we spent most of the time reading his POV about him wanting to hurt Dylan, him being with Britney (OW) and the "things" they used to do, and that’s most of it. again, i just needed more and he was just so unlikable to me because of this.
Dylan (h):
don’t get me started on this girl. let’s just say she forgives him too easily when he seduces her because omg wow "abs" , and honestly, not even surprised. this is a trend in almost alot bully/enemies to lovers romance. sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. only works for me if im actually rooting for the couple.
this is another case where heroine pretends she’s all strong and brave but turns into a weak and horny person once the hero/bully gives her some attention. i hate this.
again, i understand that Dylan probably saw through Jace’s anger and resentment and saw that he was in pain so that’s why she did most of the chasing but this action just came off as her being a doormat. i mean, what would i think about that scene where she was humiliated by Jace in front of the whole school, revealing her secret which ended up with her beating up her step-cousin, then Jace dragging her into a closet, and once Jace starts to touch her, she immediately gives in and literally BEGS him to fuck her after he admitted he was the one doing all the bullying? this scene did not make sense at all and it just left me frustrated because i was literally cheering for her when she was beating up Oakley a couple of pages ago.
what i liked:
- the author’s writing. it was great and i was hooked from the start
- Dylan beating up her step-cousin
- the grovelling scene at the end (but it wasn’t enough to satisfy me tbh)
- and my sweet Liam (H little brother), omfg i loved him he was the best and he deserved the world.
- Sawyer (h friend).
- Oakley (h step-cousin) when he wasn’t an ass and apologized to Dylan for being one.
“I lost you once…and I’ll burn the whole fucking world to the ground before I ever make that mistake again.”
the "moments" i was looking for that should’ve been present in the book more than the OW drama is the last 6%. we spend more time reading bout them being enemies and them being immature than them being a couple, being mature and working things out and emotionally connecting again... how can i be satisfied with this book when it left me frustrated with both MCs?
again, this is another case of the characters impacting my enjoyment and that's why i gave this a low rating but i know a lot of people love this. i really like the story and some of the side characters, so i still recommend this but i just can't with characters... but am i gonna read the next book tho? yes because i love Sawyer so i can’t wait to read her book!
August 6, 2023
I hated my life the entire time while reading this.
Fuck you Jace for talking like that to your brother
Fuck you Cole for bullying your brother
Fuck you Dylan for dating Liam’s bully
Fuck you Liam’s dad for neglecting him
Fuck you Tommy.
As a person who tried to **** herself with the exact same method that is mentioned in the book I was traumatized by what Liam had to go through.
This book does not represent well, in my opinion, how to act after something like this happened.
Jade and Cole are bullies. Not only did they bully Liam (their brother) but Cole never helped his brother when other people were dragging him through the mud.
Why are you living life normally after this? Don’t you feel any remorse????
Now onto Dylan: She is made out as this good amazing friend of Liam who is always there for him.
Then riddle me this Sherlock: why the hell did you date Liam’s biggest bully????
Doesn’t really seem like a good friend action if you ask me.
Fuck you Jace for talking like that to your brother
Fuck you Cole for bullying your brother
Fuck you Dylan for dating Liam’s bully
Fuck you Liam’s dad for neglecting him
Fuck you Tommy.
As a person who tried to **** herself with the exact same method that is mentioned in the book I was traumatized by what Liam had to go through.
This book does not represent well, in my opinion, how to act after something like this happened.
Jade and Cole are bullies. Not only did they bully Liam (their brother) but Cole never helped his brother when other people were dragging him through the mud.
Why are you living life normally after this? Don’t you feel any remorse????
Now onto Dylan: She is made out as this good amazing friend of Liam who is always there for him.
Then riddle me this Sherlock: why the hell did you date Liam’s biggest bully????
Doesn’t really seem like a good friend action if you ask me.
October 4, 2021
boy treated girl like shit, girl mouths off, boy seduces girl, girl gives in, boy fucks girl over. repeat. and zero grovel. the fucking audacity
August 22, 2019
'CRUEL PRINCE' is the first book in Ashley Jade's 'Royal Hearts Academy' series. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives'
“WARNING: Royal Hearts Academy is a New Adult/High School series of stand-alones filled with drama, a touch of angst, and boys who are bad to the bone.” That alone ✔️✔️✔️✔️✔️all my boxes!!
First off let me say that all you angst whores will not want to miss this one!! Definitely a one click recommendation!! This ticked my angsty box perfectly!! This sent me on such a whip lash kind of journey, the too and fro, the hot and cold that our hero put our heroine through was enough to turn me to the bottle!! But oh how much I loved it!!
Lately books and myself haven't had the greatest relationship, ones I've been anticipating, stalking, wanting, needing, craving didn't have the impact I was hoping for, BUT this book right here pulled me right out of my funk!! If I didn't have to adult and work I would've finished this in record time!! I didn't want to put it down!! Straight away I was pulled into the storyline, loving all the feels that were coming my way.
I love books like this, childhood besties, that turn against each other, and boy did he turn against her, he was out to destroy her anyway he could!!
Dylan and Jace were besties four years earlier when they bonded over kachori as they stomped it to dust on the school play yard. That was the defining moment when Dylan officially made Jace hers.
Losing a parent each made their friendship even more dear. Little by little she creeps under his skin, just when it seems like they are going to go from friends to more within a blink of an eye EVERYTHING CHANGES and she's whisked away to another town as her father starts a new career.
NOW SHE'S BACK....BUT things aren't as she'd left them. Her best friend Jace now despises her. And wants nothing at all to do with her. But she's staying with her Aunt and Uncle and one of Jace's close friends (Oakley) as she finishes out the school year. Sooo needless to say, things are going to get interesting!!
God let me just say that I loved Oakley he's two sandwiches short of a picnic but god did he stand his own in this book. Loved him!!
Series Order:
Cruel Prince (Jace’s Book)
Ruthless Knight (Cole’s Book)
Wicked Princess (Bianca’s Book)
January 6, 2020
Re-read so I am ready for the second book ;) 1/6/20
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
Wow, what a ride... I have been looking forward to reading this book ever since I first read the blurb. What can I say... I am all for a good "bully" YA story. They are like cupcakes to me... I want to gobble them all up.
I knew even before opening this one, that I was in for an emotional rollercoaster and a world of angst. Of course, I was right...as ever...and I was alternating laughing, crying, swooning and cursing all throughout the story. I love it when a book can me feel so many different emotions !!
If you're like me and you have a weakness for redeemable assholes...then you have hit the jackpot with Jace and Cole. I am still not sure, which of them I like most...they are both so bad 
Not to mention their good pall Oakley, he was his own brand of awesome.
Now, this is Jace's story....or I should say, Dylan and Jace's story. Yes, this story did remind me of "Bully" by Penelope Douglas, which is one of my all-time favorite books. That said...it was also very different.
Dylan and Jace used to be the best of friends 4 years ago...but tragedy strikes in a big and awful way and pretty much everything changes after that. Dylan's family takes her away and she doesn't set food into her hometown until 4 years later.
Even though her life has turned to shit in a major way, she is still looking forward to seeing her old best friend again. He is the only thing in her life right now she is looking forward too.
But when she finally comes face to face with him and she sees nothing but hate staring back at her...she isn't sure what the hell is going on. That look of hate is just the beginning though and Dylan can't stop wondering what happened to the boy she loved...and still loves... But she will surely find out.
Now I absolutely enjoyed reading this book, even though it gave me a bald spot from pulling my hair. There were times when I got a little bit annoyed with Dylan and she kept giving Jace the benefit of the doubt. He was more than cruel to her but she just couldn't stop her feelings for him.
I had to remind myself that she was just 17/18 years old. And yes...the heart wants what it wants, but self-respect and self-worth are also very important I think. But like I said...I am (unfortunately) not 18 anymore...and I haven't been for a long time
I really had an awesome time reading this book. I am part zombie today because of it. Once I started I had to finish it...and I am glad I did. Now I really want Cole's story, because I just feel like he is gonna be my favorite out of all...
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
August 18, 2019
“Butterflies appear when angels are near.”
Cruel Prince is book 1 in the Royal Hearts Academy series. No cliffhanger.
I never expected to cry ugly tears reading this book but the pain radiating off these pages absolutely gutted me.
”Kiss me like you’re mine. I dare you.”
The emotions A Jade takes you through in this book are no joke. I laughed my ass off at Oakley’s stupid comments, I cried my eyes out at the heartbreak that encompasses both Dylan and Jase’s worlds, I screamed at my kindle because I was so damn frustrated with the actions of the characters and had to take several deep breaths.
A Jade shows you that family isn’t always blood. Family are the people who are there for you in times of need. It’s people who are loyal and have your back when you are at your darkest. Family is the person who would take a bullet for you without even blinking. Blood or not.
”I’m destroying the kingdom.
”And just like a game of chess.
”You have to take down the queen before conquering the king.”
The love that Jace and Dylan had for each other was beautiful. It was heartbreaking. It was raw and emotional but it was so damn perfect.
Their journey was not easy. It was not kind. But it was raw and real and everything that I’d hoped it would be.
I won’t give any spoilers away because you need to go into this book blind to experience how epic it is.
A truly heartbreaking love story that will break your heart and then fix it all over again.
Cruel Prince is book 1 in the Royal Hearts Academy series. No cliffhanger.
I never expected to cry ugly tears reading this book but the pain radiating off these pages absolutely gutted me.
”Kiss me like you’re mine. I dare you.”
The emotions A Jade takes you through in this book are no joke. I laughed my ass off at Oakley’s stupid comments, I cried my eyes out at the heartbreak that encompasses both Dylan and Jase’s worlds, I screamed at my kindle because I was so damn frustrated with the actions of the characters and had to take several deep breaths.
A Jade shows you that family isn’t always blood. Family are the people who are there for you in times of need. It’s people who are loyal and have your back when you are at your darkest. Family is the person who would take a bullet for you without even blinking. Blood or not.
”I’m destroying the kingdom.
”And just like a game of chess.
”You have to take down the queen before conquering the king.”
The love that Jace and Dylan had for each other was beautiful. It was heartbreaking. It was raw and emotional but it was so damn perfect.
Their journey was not easy. It was not kind. But it was raw and real and everything that I’d hoped it would be.
I won’t give any spoilers away because you need to go into this book blind to experience how epic it is.
A truly heartbreaking love story that will break your heart and then fix it all over again.
August 22, 2019
Ashley has scored once again with this hearttouching story of Love gone wrong in horrendous ways.
This High School Bully romance gets right down to business from page 1. It shock and stuns with brutal honesty about not-so-innocent High Schoolers heavily indulging in alcohol, drugs, sex and bullying.
All are interrelated and one thing leads to the other.
"Heart doesn't choose who we love by their worth.
Because love isn't a choice.
It's an illogical, all-consuming consequence that results from someone stealing a vital piece of you"
When the verbal bullets start whizzing, the innocent ones are caught in the fray and such is Dylan Taylor. Left alone to survive in the cruel world of Royal Manor town and school, she's haunted by the ghosts past. Shown no mercy, forever spat at verbally and emotionally, she's just a sweet girl caught in the melee of clashing egos of Jace Covington and Tommy DaSilva. A pawn trapped in a game of chess, she soon shows her spine of steel and stumbles and tries to stand up to her bullies. Trouble is one has got her heart, the other, her friendship.
“Are you crazy? Do you have any idea what you’re doing?”
Yup. I’m destroying the kingdom. And just like a game of chess. You have to take down the queen before conquering the king. Or in this case, the prince."
"Jace is opposite of colorless
Jace is Blue.
A beautiful, turbulent ocean full of depth....and an incandescent sky that only gives you small glimpses of all its radiant colors....before turning gloomy and dark."
I liked the setting, the plot and the smooth flow of the story. ashley is improving with every book and this book was flawless in its narration.the angst factor is set high, lust and love keep clashing persistently making it a frustratingly slow burn. I love when the author toys with my heart and Ashley treats it like her pet toy.
The characters are very well defined and their sizzling chemistry sets the pages on fire. Sarcasm is heavy and strong, words cut open wounds and scathing attacks are splattered everywhere
Scintillating story with a lot of heart.
4.5 stars for push and pulls of the heart
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me :
BookBistroBlog@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/BookBistroBlog
www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
https://Bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
This High School Bully romance gets right down to business from page 1. It shock and stuns with brutal honesty about not-so-innocent High Schoolers heavily indulging in alcohol, drugs, sex and bullying.
All are interrelated and one thing leads to the other.
"Heart doesn't choose who we love by their worth.
Because love isn't a choice.
It's an illogical, all-consuming consequence that results from someone stealing a vital piece of you"
When the verbal bullets start whizzing, the innocent ones are caught in the fray and such is Dylan Taylor. Left alone to survive in the cruel world of Royal Manor town and school, she's haunted by the ghosts past. Shown no mercy, forever spat at verbally and emotionally, she's just a sweet girl caught in the melee of clashing egos of Jace Covington and Tommy DaSilva. A pawn trapped in a game of chess, she soon shows her spine of steel and stumbles and tries to stand up to her bullies. Trouble is one has got her heart, the other, her friendship.
“Are you crazy? Do you have any idea what you’re doing?”
Yup. I’m destroying the kingdom. And just like a game of chess. You have to take down the queen before conquering the king. Or in this case, the prince."
"Jace is opposite of colorless
Jace is Blue.
A beautiful, turbulent ocean full of depth....and an incandescent sky that only gives you small glimpses of all its radiant colors....before turning gloomy and dark."
I liked the setting, the plot and the smooth flow of the story. ashley is improving with every book and this book was flawless in its narration.the angst factor is set high, lust and love keep clashing persistently making it a frustratingly slow burn. I love when the author toys with my heart and Ashley treats it like her pet toy.
The characters are very well defined and their sizzling chemistry sets the pages on fire. Sarcasm is heavy and strong, words cut open wounds and scathing attacks are splattered everywhere
Scintillating story with a lot of heart.
4.5 stars for push and pulls of the heart
#BookBistroBlogApproved
Follow me :
BookBistroBlog@gmail.com
https://twitter.com/BookBistroBlog
www.instagram.com/BookBistroBlog
https://Bookbistroblogger.blogspot.com
https://www.facebook.com/groups/BookB...
July 9, 2020
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
CALLING ALL ANGST WH*RES! I REPEAT...CALLING ALL ANGST WH*RES! You need to get your hands on this story...like RIGHT NOW! YES I MEAN IT, RIGHT NOW...DROP EVERYTHING YOU ARE DOING AND PICK UP A COPY!
Cruel Prince is the first book in Ashley Jade's addictively captivating Royal Hearts Academy series and oh my freaking goodness what the PERFECT introduction to this brand new series! Let's just say that the angst level in this story is turned WAY up high and you will without a doubt fall head over heels in in love with every single moment of this tale from the characters to this unique storyline. Although I have read several bully romances recently, nothing has quite compared to this phenomenal story and I think I might have just discovered my all-time favorite one!
Dylan and Jace's story is a gut-wrenching friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat second guessing every twist and turn! Their story took me on a rollercoaster of emotions that left me laughing, swooning and crying from one second to the next. Just when I thought I had things all figured out, suddenly that author threw me for a loop and I found myself completely shocked by the outcome. I thought that author did an incredible job showing readers both the past and present of these characters so effortlessly that it had me hook, line, and sinker right from the very beginning. Their journey is not the easiest one, but it was the one that they were always meant to be on. Life will constantly throw obstacles in a person's way and sometimes you have to fight for the one you love!
CALLING ALL ANGST WH*RES! I REPEAT...CALLING ALL ANGST WH*RES! You need to get your hands on this story...like RIGHT NOW! YES I MEAN IT, RIGHT NOW...DROP EVERYTHING YOU ARE DOING AND PICK UP A COPY!
Cruel Prince is the first book in Ashley Jade's addictively captivating Royal Hearts Academy series and oh my freaking goodness what the PERFECT introduction to this brand new series! Let's just say that the angst level in this story is turned WAY up high and you will without a doubt fall head over heels in in love with every single moment of this tale from the characters to this unique storyline. Although I have read several bully romances recently, nothing has quite compared to this phenomenal story and I think I might have just discovered my all-time favorite one!
Dylan and Jace's story is a gut-wrenching friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat second guessing every twist and turn! Their story took me on a rollercoaster of emotions that left me laughing, swooning and crying from one second to the next. Just when I thought I had things all figured out, suddenly that author threw me for a loop and I found myself completely shocked by the outcome. I thought that author did an incredible job showing readers both the past and present of these characters so effortlessly that it had me hook, line, and sinker right from the very beginning. Their journey is not the easiest one, but it was the one that they were always meant to be on. Life will constantly throw obstacles in a person's way and sometimes you have to fight for the one you love!
August 20, 2019
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️++
How do you know if a book is a 5 star read? I think that’s always the question when you sit down to review a book. For me, it comes down to two things: does the book make me feel? Does it elicit any level of emotion from me? And secondly, is there some degree of believability to the story or the characters? For me, tied to that believability is the authenticity of emotion. Are the feelings I’m feeling (anger, sadness, frustration, happiness, joy, etc) true feelings? Even more, where do those feelings spring from? Has the writer hit to my most basics emotions? What bruises from my past does the writer press on with his/her characters and/or story? All of these questions drive my reviews even when the subject matter of a book isn’t anything I’ve experienced or far from the experiences in my past.
Ashley Jade’s Cruel Prince shouldn’t really capture my attention. I’m a woman in her 40s with a young adult son who is far past the “new adult” experience. Should I really want to read about the romance of teens who are burgeoning into adulthood? This has been a personal question since I’ve noticed a bit of a surge in the New Adult romance genre. But here’s the thing. Ashley Jade’s Cruel Prince is so well written that you can’t help but need to read it. For me, it’s one of the best of this genre this year. And why? Because she crafts characters and storylines that hit to the core of the truth of feelings. Even in the darkest moments of this book, I believe the motivations of her characters driving their actions, that I don’t look at the story from the perspective of a 40-something woman or the mom of a young adult. I can find some piece of myself in the a-hole emotionally complex hero and the subversive powerful heroine. From my perspective, being able to craft this relationship between the reader and the story’s characters is the genius of this book.
At its core, Cruel Prince is a character study in the reciprocity of pain. There are various levels of emotional pain perpetrated on the characters of this story. There are no redeeming adults in this story; the main characters, the teens of this story, are the most mature people in this book. As such, the adults in their emotional neglect and selfishness have created these kids who must learn to handle life and trauma on their own. From Jace’s inner guilt and heavy feelings of personal responsibility for his siblings to Dylan’s feelings of being unloved to Oakley’s father’s censure and step-mother’s selfishness, the pain inflicted by physical, mental, and emotional trauma embody these characters, make them who they are. It’s this embodiment of pain that draws you as a reader to them, no matter your age or background. Reading their experiences and empathizing with their feelings, even their actions (yes, even when Jace is horrible to Dylan or other characters I understand his motivations; I empathize with him and his pain), are what kept me reading this book overnight instead of sleeping. I needed to know that they would be “okay” in the end, so the characters of Cruel Prince are what engaged me in the story: Jace’s perpetual malice to cover his pain and guilt, Dylan’s internal strength to endure the people who mete out pain on her, Oakley’s humor and drug use to cover his pain from not really being seen, Sawyer’s insecurity about herself even as she lives in her truth, and Cole and Bianca’s guilt and lack of parental direction. This is Ashley Jade’s strength; it’s what makes her writing deep and engaging because she magnifies the human experience in her characters. It’s also why people are rabid for her books.
Because I believe in her characters, I have a horrible habit of wanting to “chat” with her through comments on Facebook. I oftentimes forget that they are her babies, and I make selfish comments that might be construed as not believing in Ashley as their creator. This is furthest from the truth. I believe in Ashley Jade’s vision, as, I’ve noted above, she makes her characters believable for me. For my selfish comments, I am sorry, but I think it shows my belief in her writing genius. At least, that’s what I’ve hoped she might see.
Along with the development of character, the storyline is a mighty driving force of Cruel Prince. There is definitely typical bully behavior in this romance. There are mistakes, misrepresentations, and falsehoods that keep the reader suspended in the story. The biggest piece of the story isn’t revealed until almost 80ish% in the story, so if you are looking for a quick, easy resolution in Cruel Prince, it isn’t found here. It’s that tension, though, that engages you, keeps you focused on the page. Additionally, this story is mostly focused on Jace and Dylan’s story. However, pieces of other future stories are doled out as little crumbs. Jade provides just enough to pique your curiosity. I think this is important to the story because the angst over the brokenness of Jace and Dylan’s friendship/relationship can feel overwhelming at times. However, with the interjection of other characters and their potential storylines, you receive an interlude that gives you respite for a short time before gutting your heart again with Dylan and Jace’s story. It’s this cycle that drives you forward in the story, thirsting for a happy ending. It’s why I didn’t put this book down until 5 a.m.
If you are like me and need to feel “all the feels” of a story, then Cruel Prince should be at the top of your list. It’s a complex weaving of pain, brokenness, redemption, humor, and love. It doesn’t matter if you’re a teen, a 20-something, or even an old lady like me because Ashley Jade’s ability to construct the human experience in her characters and their story grips you in Cruel Prince. I may be far, far from teenhood, but the pain of a person’s betrayal and the need to be loved wholly and exclusively are emotions that transcend any age, any time. Ashley Jade’s Cruel Prince delivers on this message, making it one of the best new adult books of this year.
How do you know if a book is a 5 star read? I think that’s always the question when you sit down to review a book. For me, it comes down to two things: does the book make me feel? Does it elicit any level of emotion from me? And secondly, is there some degree of believability to the story or the characters? For me, tied to that believability is the authenticity of emotion. Are the feelings I’m feeling (anger, sadness, frustration, happiness, joy, etc) true feelings? Even more, where do those feelings spring from? Has the writer hit to my most basics emotions? What bruises from my past does the writer press on with his/her characters and/or story? All of these questions drive my reviews even when the subject matter of a book isn’t anything I’ve experienced or far from the experiences in my past.
Ashley Jade’s Cruel Prince shouldn’t really capture my attention. I’m a woman in her 40s with a young adult son who is far past the “new adult” experience. Should I really want to read about the romance of teens who are burgeoning into adulthood? This has been a personal question since I’ve noticed a bit of a surge in the New Adult romance genre. But here’s the thing. Ashley Jade’s Cruel Prince is so well written that you can’t help but need to read it. For me, it’s one of the best of this genre this year. And why? Because she crafts characters and storylines that hit to the core of the truth of feelings. Even in the darkest moments of this book, I believe the motivations of her characters driving their actions, that I don’t look at the story from the perspective of a 40-something woman or the mom of a young adult. I can find some piece of myself in the a-hole emotionally complex hero and the subversive powerful heroine. From my perspective, being able to craft this relationship between the reader and the story’s characters is the genius of this book.
At its core, Cruel Prince is a character study in the reciprocity of pain. There are various levels of emotional pain perpetrated on the characters of this story. There are no redeeming adults in this story; the main characters, the teens of this story, are the most mature people in this book. As such, the adults in their emotional neglect and selfishness have created these kids who must learn to handle life and trauma on their own. From Jace’s inner guilt and heavy feelings of personal responsibility for his siblings to Dylan’s feelings of being unloved to Oakley’s father’s censure and step-mother’s selfishness, the pain inflicted by physical, mental, and emotional trauma embody these characters, make them who they are. It’s this embodiment of pain that draws you as a reader to them, no matter your age or background. Reading their experiences and empathizing with their feelings, even their actions (yes, even when Jace is horrible to Dylan or other characters I understand his motivations; I empathize with him and his pain), are what kept me reading this book overnight instead of sleeping. I needed to know that they would be “okay” in the end, so the characters of Cruel Prince are what engaged me in the story: Jace’s perpetual malice to cover his pain and guilt, Dylan’s internal strength to endure the people who mete out pain on her, Oakley’s humor and drug use to cover his pain from not really being seen, Sawyer’s insecurity about herself even as she lives in her truth, and Cole and Bianca’s guilt and lack of parental direction. This is Ashley Jade’s strength; it’s what makes her writing deep and engaging because she magnifies the human experience in her characters. It’s also why people are rabid for her books.
Because I believe in her characters, I have a horrible habit of wanting to “chat” with her through comments on Facebook. I oftentimes forget that they are her babies, and I make selfish comments that might be construed as not believing in Ashley as their creator. This is furthest from the truth. I believe in Ashley Jade’s vision, as, I’ve noted above, she makes her characters believable for me. For my selfish comments, I am sorry, but I think it shows my belief in her writing genius. At least, that’s what I’ve hoped she might see.
Along with the development of character, the storyline is a mighty driving force of Cruel Prince. There is definitely typical bully behavior in this romance. There are mistakes, misrepresentations, and falsehoods that keep the reader suspended in the story. The biggest piece of the story isn’t revealed until almost 80ish% in the story, so if you are looking for a quick, easy resolution in Cruel Prince, it isn’t found here. It’s that tension, though, that engages you, keeps you focused on the page. Additionally, this story is mostly focused on Jace and Dylan’s story. However, pieces of other future stories are doled out as little crumbs. Jade provides just enough to pique your curiosity. I think this is important to the story because the angst over the brokenness of Jace and Dylan’s friendship/relationship can feel overwhelming at times. However, with the interjection of other characters and their potential storylines, you receive an interlude that gives you respite for a short time before gutting your heart again with Dylan and Jace’s story. It’s this cycle that drives you forward in the story, thirsting for a happy ending. It’s why I didn’t put this book down until 5 a.m.
If you are like me and need to feel “all the feels” of a story, then Cruel Prince should be at the top of your list. It’s a complex weaving of pain, brokenness, redemption, humor, and love. It doesn’t matter if you’re a teen, a 20-something, or even an old lady like me because Ashley Jade’s ability to construct the human experience in her characters and their story grips you in Cruel Prince. I may be far, far from teenhood, but the pain of a person’s betrayal and the need to be loved wholly and exclusively are emotions that transcend any age, any time. Ashley Jade’s Cruel Prince delivers on this message, making it one of the best new adult books of this year.
August 25, 2019
✨ DREAMY’S REVIEW ✨
“The Mariana Trench isn’t deep enough for what I feel for you.”
UNPUTDOWNABLE. PHENOMENAL. CAPTIVATING. EMOTIONAL. HEARTBREAKING. INTENSE. BEAUTIFUL. DEEP. HOT AF.
The minute this baby dropped into my Kindle, all bets were off. I refused to eat. I refused to sleep. I ignored my family. I put my phone on Do Not Disturb.
I inhaled and exhaled Cruel Prince until it’s last word.
I’ve been highly anticipating this book and you bet your ass I wasn’t going to let anything stop me from devouring and appreciating every single, beautiful word of Ashley Jade’s new world of characters! The Royal Hearts Academy Series is everything you could want and more, also this is just the beginning!
💙💙💙💙💙💙
Cruel Prince by Ashley Jade is all of that and THIS WARNING to the T: Royal Hearts Academy is a New Adult/High School series of standalones filled with drama, a touch of angst, and boys who are bad to the bone.
YES.
YES.
YES.
FUCK YES.
Let me just say, as a previous reader and lover of Ashley Jade’s books, this one right here in particular, BLEW ME THE FUCK AWAY! Her writing is phenomenal as always, and in my opinion, Cruel Prince is one of her best works that I’ve read to date!
“We were best friends, but our demons were kindred spirits.”
When I tell you that I highlighted the fuck out of this book, you best believe it because DAMN, I fell in love with Jade’s storytelling and was so mesmerized by Dylan and Jace!
The emotions that Jade puts you through is no joke, it’s an experience all on its own and one you MUST experience!! I cannot tell you how much I laughed, shedded a few tears, felt my heart go through the wringer, and fell in love with how much these two felt for each other so deeply, even when they couldn’t stand each other.
“Kiss me like you’re mine. I dare you.”
Jace and Dylan go way back as childhood best friends, turned enemies, and let me tell you that Jace is really out to destroy Dylan when she reappears into his life like a wrecking ball!
“I guess my broken pieces missed yours as much as I missed you.”
There’s that untold, underlining tension and love between these two that is undeniable, off the charts, and even when they spew hurtful words towards one another... there’s still something beautifully broken between Dylan and Jace.
Their journey was never easy, there was always something there possibly standing in their way, but it’s theirs. It’s so fucking perfect.
The raw and real emotions that these two go through as they try to navigate tolerating each other really makes you sit there and realize a few things:
Not all family is blood. It’s the loyalty that they show without a blink of an eye. It’s being there for that person when they are in their darkest moments. It’s continuing to love that person despite the mistakes that were made and getting over it.
“We were best friends before we were enemies, therefore my love for him will always be stronger than my animosity.”
💙💙💙💙💙💙
Drop everything you are doing and get this book! It’s a MUST READ! I cannot recommenced this book enough, if I could give it ten stars, I would in a heartbeat! I cannot give this book enough praise! Pick it up, devour it, and thank me later!
Ashley Jade, as always, I bow down to your work!
Five (million) dreamy stars: 💫💫💫💫💫
💫 Check out all of my reviews on my blog: www.dreamyreadsbookblog.wordpress.com
💫 Follow me on IG: www.instagram.com/dreamy.reads
💫 Like my Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/dreamybookblog
“The Mariana Trench isn’t deep enough for what I feel for you.”
UNPUTDOWNABLE. PHENOMENAL. CAPTIVATING. EMOTIONAL. HEARTBREAKING. INTENSE. BEAUTIFUL. DEEP. HOT AF.
The minute this baby dropped into my Kindle, all bets were off. I refused to eat. I refused to sleep. I ignored my family. I put my phone on Do Not Disturb.
I inhaled and exhaled Cruel Prince until it’s last word.
I’ve been highly anticipating this book and you bet your ass I wasn’t going to let anything stop me from devouring and appreciating every single, beautiful word of Ashley Jade’s new world of characters! The Royal Hearts Academy Series is everything you could want and more, also this is just the beginning!
💙💙💙💙💙💙
Cruel Prince by Ashley Jade is all of that and THIS WARNING to the T: Royal Hearts Academy is a New Adult/High School series of standalones filled with drama, a touch of angst, and boys who are bad to the bone.
YES.
YES.
YES.
FUCK YES.
Let me just say, as a previous reader and lover of Ashley Jade’s books, this one right here in particular, BLEW ME THE FUCK AWAY! Her writing is phenomenal as always, and in my opinion, Cruel Prince is one of her best works that I’ve read to date!
“We were best friends, but our demons were kindred spirits.”
When I tell you that I highlighted the fuck out of this book, you best believe it because DAMN, I fell in love with Jade’s storytelling and was so mesmerized by Dylan and Jace!
The emotions that Jade puts you through is no joke, it’s an experience all on its own and one you MUST experience!! I cannot tell you how much I laughed, shedded a few tears, felt my heart go through the wringer, and fell in love with how much these two felt for each other so deeply, even when they couldn’t stand each other.
“Kiss me like you’re mine. I dare you.”
Jace and Dylan go way back as childhood best friends, turned enemies, and let me tell you that Jace is really out to destroy Dylan when she reappears into his life like a wrecking ball!
“I guess my broken pieces missed yours as much as I missed you.”
There’s that untold, underlining tension and love between these two that is undeniable, off the charts, and even when they spew hurtful words towards one another... there’s still something beautifully broken between Dylan and Jace.
Their journey was never easy, there was always something there possibly standing in their way, but it’s theirs. It’s so fucking perfect.
The raw and real emotions that these two go through as they try to navigate tolerating each other really makes you sit there and realize a few things:
Not all family is blood. It’s the loyalty that they show without a blink of an eye. It’s being there for that person when they are in their darkest moments. It’s continuing to love that person despite the mistakes that were made and getting over it.
“We were best friends before we were enemies, therefore my love for him will always be stronger than my animosity.”
💙💙💙💙💙💙
Drop everything you are doing and get this book! It’s a MUST READ! I cannot recommenced this book enough, if I could give it ten stars, I would in a heartbeat! I cannot give this book enough praise! Pick it up, devour it, and thank me later!
Ashley Jade, as always, I bow down to your work!
Five (million) dreamy stars: 💫💫💫💫💫
💫 Check out all of my reviews on my blog: www.dreamyreadsbookblog.wordpress.com
💫 Follow me on IG: www.instagram.com/dreamy.reads
💫 Like my Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/dreamybookblog
February 3, 2020
4.5
Bully romance is one of my favorite things to read. It's enemies to lovers to the extreme, and I can't get enough! Intense attraction, insane sexual tension, and tortuous angst, what's not to love?
From the moment I heard about Cruel Prince, I knew I had to have it. It sounded perfect for me, and even though I had never read anything by Ashley Jade before, I anticipated it for months. By the time it actually landed on my kindle, the expectation was real, and I was worried I had set myself up for disappointment. Spoiler Alert: I didn't!
This book surprised me by going deeper than I assumed it would. It isn't just a romance with a bully theme. It discusses a serious topic that not all new adult romance novels dive into in the way this one did. I don't want to go into detail and spoil anything, but it showed this specific incident and the effect it had on everyone from all sides of the coin. It made you think, and it made you feel. If you know me, those are two things I always love to be able to say about a story.
Crule Prince brought the angst, the steam, and the drama! I adored the romance and the friendships, and I can't wait to get more of it in the next installment of this series. Cole and Sawyer together give me life, and I'm anticipating the fuck out their book! Rest assured that when it comes out, I will be devouring it immediately! I suggest you do, too!
Bully romance fans, this one's for you!
Bully romance is one of my favorite things to read. It's enemies to lovers to the extreme, and I can't get enough! Intense attraction, insane sexual tension, and tortuous angst, what's not to love?
From the moment I heard about Cruel Prince, I knew I had to have it. It sounded perfect for me, and even though I had never read anything by Ashley Jade before, I anticipated it for months. By the time it actually landed on my kindle, the expectation was real, and I was worried I had set myself up for disappointment. Spoiler Alert: I didn't!
This book surprised me by going deeper than I assumed it would. It isn't just a romance with a bully theme. It discusses a serious topic that not all new adult romance novels dive into in the way this one did. I don't want to go into detail and spoil anything, but it showed this specific incident and the effect it had on everyone from all sides of the coin. It made you think, and it made you feel. If you know me, those are two things I always love to be able to say about a story.
Crule Prince brought the angst, the steam, and the drama! I adored the romance and the friendships, and I can't wait to get more of it in the next installment of this series. Cole and Sawyer together give me life, and I'm anticipating the fuck out their book! Rest assured that when it comes out, I will be devouring it immediately! I suggest you do, too!
Bully romance fans, this one's for you!
September 1, 2019
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Girls, welcome to the kingdom of the cruelest Prince you've ever met! 👑🔥
📚 "I’m destroying the kingdom.
And just like a game of chess.
You have to take down the queen before conquering the king.
Or in this case, the prince." 📚
God, I love reading good books- about bad boys!!! 😋 Not just bad, one that makes my stomach shrink, my heart ache, my hands shake and my panties... well, you know what I mean (this is a public group, for heaven's sake!) 😂🙈
JACE Fucking COVINGTON!!! 👑
📚 "How could someone so gorgeous be so cruel?" 📚
Dylan and Jace met when they were 11-years-old. Dylan, who lost her mother, found comfort with the broken, lonely boy who carried all the pain of his younger siblings on his shoulders, after the lost of their mother. 💔
Their tragedies connected them, and they become best friends, but when Dylan's feelings for him became deeper than friendship, Jace rejected her- although it was obvious he felt the same, he doesn't explain why... 😱
When Jace finally surrendered to his emotions, Dylan's father unexpectedly transferred them to another city for a better job opportunity. He didn't give her time to digest the news or say goodbye to the most important person in her life... 😭
But the day she left, something terrible happened to Jace and his family. Something that would change everything.
Four years later, Dylan returns to attend her senior year at 'Royal Hart Academy High'. Despite the pain from returning to the place that reminds her of her mother, one thing helps... seeing Jace Covington again. 😍
And although Jace never responded to her calls or messages over the years, she certainly didn't expect such a cruel welcoming... Jace is cold and mean, trying to break her spirits and to get her out of his town, this time for good. 🖤
📚 "No one in the whole wide world has the power to make me feel both love and hate simultaneously the way Jace Covington does.
He’s the yin to my yang. The down to my up. The crazy to my normal.
The damaged pieces to all my broken parts." 📚
Dylan doesn't understand what she did to justify his behavior, but she doesn't give up easily. 💪 She's strong but caring, bad-ass but sweet... and her heart still belongs to one boy. a boy who used to be everything to her - and now he's her bully. 😱
Secrets, lies, betrayals and pain... Why does Jace hate Dylan so much? What did she do to him? Will he ever forgive her? Will she forgive him and herself...? 💥💥💥
📚 “Kiss me like you’re mine. I dare you.” 📚
Well, let me start with ... WOW! 👏
I've read quite a few books by this author, but this just became one of my favorites! 💃
The characters are perfect (even the secondary! 😋) The plot is a roller-coaster of emotions full of heartache, passion, anger and one HUGE love! Ashley always manage to bring drama, humor, suspense and surprising twists to her stories. ❤💥
📚 “I used to believe everything was black and white… right and wrong. But now I’m starting to think people might not be the sum of their greatest achievements… or their worst mistakes.” 📚
It's a story of acceptance, forgiveness and family ... A family who will always be there for you- even in your darkest moments, even if they aren't related by blood. 🙏
Dylan and Jace's journey is not easy or sweet - but it certainly topped all my expectations! If I could, I would give it a lot more than 5 stars! 🎉
So if you like YA, this book is A MUST. Trust me !!! 😍
"Cruel Prince" is book one of the 'Royal Hearts Academy' series, each one is about a different character and can be read as a standalone.
*** I received an ARC from the author for an objective review ***
Girls, welcome to the kingdom of the cruelest Prince you've ever met! 👑🔥
📚 "I’m destroying the kingdom.
And just like a game of chess.
You have to take down the queen before conquering the king.
Or in this case, the prince." 📚
God, I love reading good books- about bad boys!!! 😋 Not just bad, one that makes my stomach shrink, my heart ache, my hands shake and my panties... well, you know what I mean (this is a public group, for heaven's sake!) 😂🙈
JACE Fucking COVINGTON!!! 👑
📚 "How could someone so gorgeous be so cruel?" 📚
Dylan and Jace met when they were 11-years-old. Dylan, who lost her mother, found comfort with the broken, lonely boy who carried all the pain of his younger siblings on his shoulders, after the lost of their mother. 💔
Their tragedies connected them, and they become best friends, but when Dylan's feelings for him became deeper than friendship, Jace rejected her- although it was obvious he felt the same, he doesn't explain why... 😱
When Jace finally surrendered to his emotions, Dylan's father unexpectedly transferred them to another city for a better job opportunity. He didn't give her time to digest the news or say goodbye to the most important person in her life... 😭
But the day she left, something terrible happened to Jace and his family. Something that would change everything.
Four years later, Dylan returns to attend her senior year at 'Royal Hart Academy High'. Despite the pain from returning to the place that reminds her of her mother, one thing helps... seeing Jace Covington again. 😍
And although Jace never responded to her calls or messages over the years, she certainly didn't expect such a cruel welcoming... Jace is cold and mean, trying to break her spirits and to get her out of his town, this time for good. 🖤
📚 "No one in the whole wide world has the power to make me feel both love and hate simultaneously the way Jace Covington does.
He’s the yin to my yang. The down to my up. The crazy to my normal.
The damaged pieces to all my broken parts." 📚
Dylan doesn't understand what she did to justify his behavior, but she doesn't give up easily. 💪 She's strong but caring, bad-ass but sweet... and her heart still belongs to one boy. a boy who used to be everything to her - and now he's her bully. 😱
Secrets, lies, betrayals and pain... Why does Jace hate Dylan so much? What did she do to him? Will he ever forgive her? Will she forgive him and herself...? 💥💥💥
📚 “Kiss me like you’re mine. I dare you.” 📚
Well, let me start with ... WOW! 👏
I've read quite a few books by this author, but this just became one of my favorites! 💃
The characters are perfect (even the secondary! 😋) The plot is a roller-coaster of emotions full of heartache, passion, anger and one HUGE love! Ashley always manage to bring drama, humor, suspense and surprising twists to her stories. ❤💥
📚 “I used to believe everything was black and white… right and wrong. But now I’m starting to think people might not be the sum of their greatest achievements… or their worst mistakes.” 📚
It's a story of acceptance, forgiveness and family ... A family who will always be there for you- even in your darkest moments, even if they aren't related by blood. 🙏
Dylan and Jace's journey is not easy or sweet - but it certainly topped all my expectations! If I could, I would give it a lot more than 5 stars! 🎉
So if you like YA, this book is A MUST. Trust me !!! 😍
"Cruel Prince" is book one of the 'Royal Hearts Academy' series, each one is about a different character and can be read as a standalone.
*** I received an ARC from the author for an objective review ***
![Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1647896333i%2F31792110._UX200_CR0%2C96%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
August 23, 2019
2.5 stars. There is nothing, I repeat, NOTHING, I hate more in the romance world than a heroine who pretends to be strong when she's secretly weak AF.
SOME SPOILERS, BE WARNED
Dylan does a good job of pretending to be strong. She beats up her step-cousin well, which I liked, and she talks a big talk - all about how tough she is and won't take any more sh*t from her bully. The problem? SHE NEVER FOLLOWED THROUGH. Every time the hero got his hands on her, she was moaning and begging, only for him to constantly leave her high and dry because the stupid cow kept forgetting that he was only turning her on to get revenge on her. Dylan is the perfect definition of why some feminists hate romance, because being with the hero didn't make her stronger: it made her lose every brain cell she possesses. She chased the hero like crazy which, considering she's been doing it her whole life and even while he bullies her, drove my head in.
Now for Jace, the hero. He was just totally meh. I didn't like him, and I didn't even hate him, because he was frankly too thick for me to even hate. He destroys his romance with his best friend literally just because HIS WORST ENEMY told him some lies about her. Does he verify them? No. Does he check to see her side of the story, considering they've been supposed best friends for years? Hell no. What he DOES do is hook up with the heroine's worst enemy and rub it in her face. He's honestly even stupider than the heroine (which is saying something) so I actually just pitied him.
It goes without saying that there is OW drama galore. Even some OM drama, but unfortunately the OM turns out to be a psycho, which is my pet peeve. There's never a nice normal OM who's actually a good contender for the heroine's hand; no, he needs to be even worse than the hero, so the heroine realises the hero is the lesser of two evils. Yowch.
The book was admittedly well-written, and the sex scenes are hot. I couldn't stop reading last night - I'm running on five hours of sleep today because there was so much drama and I wanted to see how it was resolved. Also, I want to read the two sequels because I already know who the couples will be BUT I'm wary about the next book (hero's brother Cole and heroine's friend Sawyer) because Cole is A HUGE MANWHORE, and though he flirts with Sawyer constantly he's always with other girls. I can deal with a hero who's a manwhore before he meets the heroine but I am not going to deal well with a book where he's chatting up the heroine whilst simultaneously getting his dick sucked by OW.
Everyone else seems to have loved this book though... Oh well.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
SOME SPOILERS, BE WARNED
Dylan does a good job of pretending to be strong. She beats up her step-cousin well, which I liked, and she talks a big talk - all about how tough she is and won't take any more sh*t from her bully. The problem? SHE NEVER FOLLOWED THROUGH. Every time the hero got his hands on her, she was moaning and begging, only for him to constantly leave her high and dry because the stupid cow kept forgetting that he was only turning her on to get revenge on her. Dylan is the perfect definition of why some feminists hate romance, because being with the hero didn't make her stronger: it made her lose every brain cell she possesses. She chased the hero like crazy which, considering she's been doing it her whole life and even while he bullies her, drove my head in.
Now for Jace, the hero. He was just totally meh. I didn't like him, and I didn't even hate him, because he was frankly too thick for me to even hate. He destroys his romance with his best friend literally just because HIS WORST ENEMY told him some lies about her. Does he verify them? No. Does he check to see her side of the story, considering they've been supposed best friends for years? Hell no. What he DOES do is hook up with the heroine's worst enemy and rub it in her face. He's honestly even stupider than the heroine (which is saying something) so I actually just pitied him.
It goes without saying that there is OW drama galore. Even some OM drama, but unfortunately the OM turns out to be a psycho, which is my pet peeve. There's never a nice normal OM who's actually a good contender for the heroine's hand; no, he needs to be even worse than the hero, so the heroine realises the hero is the lesser of two evils. Yowch.
The book was admittedly well-written, and the sex scenes are hot. I couldn't stop reading last night - I'm running on five hours of sleep today because there was so much drama and I wanted to see how it was resolved. Also, I want to read the two sequels because I already know who the couples will be BUT I'm wary about the next book (hero's brother Cole and heroine's friend Sawyer) because Cole is A HUGE MANWHORE, and though he flirts with Sawyer constantly he's always with other girls. I can deal with a hero who's a manwhore before he meets the heroine but I am not going to deal well with a book where he's chatting up the heroine whilst simultaneously getting his dick sucked by OW.
Everyone else seems to have loved this book though... Oh well.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
August 20, 2019
Phenomenal!!! Outstanding and Amazing!! Emotional ride!! When she mentioned this book would give us feels, she wasn’t kidding. This book was another level of emotions. I laughed in some parts, I cried in others so bad. But in the end, it was everything we needed.
The story of Jace and Dylan is far more than what I expected. The love these two had for one an another, was different than any other love. But there was one problem, Jace loved her but he wasn’t the only one. They both have history and a very familiar tragic history that brought them together.
Ofc you have Oakley and Cole and Bianca, the feisty one, lol.. then we can’t forget my girl Sawyer who was always bullied til she met Dylan and it was two peas in a pod after that. Sawyer is a girl who you would love to have in your corner or a phone call away.. .. I loved her lmao...
Check out Cruel Prince and I promise Ashley Jade will mess with your emotions!!!
*STANDALONE BOOK, COLES BOOK IS NEXT*
The story of Jace and Dylan is far more than what I expected. The love these two had for one an another, was different than any other love. But there was one problem, Jace loved her but he wasn’t the only one. They both have history and a very familiar tragic history that brought them together.
Ofc you have Oakley and Cole and Bianca, the feisty one, lol.. then we can’t forget my girl Sawyer who was always bullied til she met Dylan and it was two peas in a pod after that. Sawyer is a girl who you would love to have in your corner or a phone call away.. .. I loved her lmao...
Check out Cruel Prince and I promise Ashley Jade will mess with your emotions!!!
*STANDALONE BOOK, COLES BOOK IS NEXT*
August 22, 2020
3.5 stars
Cruel Prince was my first book by Ashley Jade and it was one heck of a ride. If you are a lover of bully/teenage angst romances this is the book for you. These aren’t my favorite kind of reads, but honestly I really wanted to read the second book in this series because I’ve heard great things about it and had to get to this one first.
Years ago, Dylan was forced to leave her home with no notice. Leave her school, her memories, and most importantly, her best friend, Jace Covington. Dylan tried to stay in touch with Jace, but he blocked her, ignored her, and she has no idea why. Now she is back. Four years later and her senior year of high school.
Jace not only doesn’t like Dylan, he’s down right cruel to her. I could understand with time why he was so hurt and even though I hate that miscommunication thing that always happens, I can understand more with this situation. Grief makes us do crazy things that are completely out of character.
While I liked both Dylan and Jace by the end, I was never invested in their relationship as much as I wanted to be. Sometimes when I read books like this I get really into them and other times I feel like ‘I’m too old for this shit’. This one rode the line LOL.
Cruel Prince was one of those books that held my attention all the way through. Though there were some things I didn’t love personally, I can’t deny that it was a completely addictive story and I enjoyed a lot of it. I absolutely cannot wait for Sawyer and Cole’s book. Even more now after I’ve read this one. I’m also really curious about Oak and hope in the future he gets his own book.
If you’re looking for a friends to enemies to lovers type story with the bully troupe, this is the book for you!
“He’s the yin to my yang. The down to my up. The crazy to my normal. The damaged pieces to all my broken parts.”
Cruel Prince was my first book by Ashley Jade and it was one heck of a ride. If you are a lover of bully/teenage angst romances this is the book for you. These aren’t my favorite kind of reads, but honestly I really wanted to read the second book in this series because I’ve heard great things about it and had to get to this one first.
Years ago, Dylan was forced to leave her home with no notice. Leave her school, her memories, and most importantly, her best friend, Jace Covington. Dylan tried to stay in touch with Jace, but he blocked her, ignored her, and she has no idea why. Now she is back. Four years later and her senior year of high school.
Jace not only doesn’t like Dylan, he’s down right cruel to her. I could understand with time why he was so hurt and even though I hate that miscommunication thing that always happens, I can understand more with this situation. Grief makes us do crazy things that are completely out of character.
While I liked both Dylan and Jace by the end, I was never invested in their relationship as much as I wanted to be. Sometimes when I read books like this I get really into them and other times I feel like ‘I’m too old for this shit’. This one rode the line LOL.
Cruel Prince was one of those books that held my attention all the way through. Though there were some things I didn’t love personally, I can’t deny that it was a completely addictive story and I enjoyed a lot of it. I absolutely cannot wait for Sawyer and Cole’s book. Even more now after I’ve read this one. I’m also really curious about Oak and hope in the future he gets his own book.
If you’re looking for a friends to enemies to lovers type story with the bully troupe, this is the book for you!
August 17, 2019
*long, gushing post ahead*
It was a few years ago that I stumbled across Ashley Jade. I was so new to the whole romance and book world. I didn’t even know this community existed. It was Kindle Unlimited that suggested her Blame it on the Pain book to me because I was becoming obsessed with mafia romances. I ate up that book, then the Shame series. I had never been so deeply affected by characters like Ricky and Loulou. Literally the hugest book hangover. It was so amazing.
I’ve read practically every book this woman has written. I’ve been part of her journey, stalking her and reading all the new words as they’ve come. Each book has gotten better and better. That’s no joke. This woman has mastered her craft, becoming one of my most favorite story tellers. And I mean that as a fan, as a reader, as a blogger.
Cruel Prince is really everything a reader hopes for in a book. Especially in this trope.. a new one for her! You fall in love with each and every character. Your heart aches, breaks and soars. You feel EVERY emotion. I can’t tell you how many times people thought I was crazy cuz I’d laugh out loud, gasp, and yes CRY ALL THE TEARS! It’s angsty, emotional, and catches you completely off guard. It’s unlike any other AJ book - any other book - period! Jace and Dylan are LIFE. This book is EVERYTHING. Be prepared for a huuuuge book hangover. Be prepared to become obsessed with the Royal Hearts Academy gang. Because you’re going to want to know all their stories. (Which are coming, don’t worry!) And even though I’m telling you to prepare yourself? You’re still not ready. Ashley Jade has completely outdone herself in a way only she can. I’m so honored and proud to be on her team. To experience this story.. to obsess on the words. If I could give it more than 5 ⭐️ I would.. she absolutely deserves it. Congratulations on a stunning book, lady! I can’t wait for the world to have this!
It was a few years ago that I stumbled across Ashley Jade. I was so new to the whole romance and book world. I didn’t even know this community existed. It was Kindle Unlimited that suggested her Blame it on the Pain book to me because I was becoming obsessed with mafia romances. I ate up that book, then the Shame series. I had never been so deeply affected by characters like Ricky and Loulou. Literally the hugest book hangover. It was so amazing.
I’ve read practically every book this woman has written. I’ve been part of her journey, stalking her and reading all the new words as they’ve come. Each book has gotten better and better. That’s no joke. This woman has mastered her craft, becoming one of my most favorite story tellers. And I mean that as a fan, as a reader, as a blogger.
Cruel Prince is really everything a reader hopes for in a book. Especially in this trope.. a new one for her! You fall in love with each and every character. Your heart aches, breaks and soars. You feel EVERY emotion. I can’t tell you how many times people thought I was crazy cuz I’d laugh out loud, gasp, and yes CRY ALL THE TEARS! It’s angsty, emotional, and catches you completely off guard. It’s unlike any other AJ book - any other book - period! Jace and Dylan are LIFE. This book is EVERYTHING. Be prepared for a huuuuge book hangover. Be prepared to become obsessed with the Royal Hearts Academy gang. Because you’re going to want to know all their stories. (Which are coming, don’t worry!) And even though I’m telling you to prepare yourself? You’re still not ready. Ashley Jade has completely outdone herself in a way only she can. I’m so honored and proud to be on her team. To experience this story.. to obsess on the words. If I could give it more than 5 ⭐️ I would.. she absolutely deserves it. Congratulations on a stunning book, lady! I can’t wait for the world to have this!
August 26, 2019
5 Stars For My Newest Addiction
A high school bully romance that was about first loves, revenge and second chances. I read it in one sitting because putting this down was not an option! This story, the characters, the OMG moments kept me hooked!
Dylan is back after she was forced to leave her home and best friend without warning four years ago. The most important thing changed and that was her best friend, Jace. He was always broody and kept his feelings hidden...now he’s angry and determined to make her life hell.
Dylan just wants to finish high school and get her best friend back. He was the first boy she ever loved and she never forgot him. She’s at a loss because she has no idea why he hates her and Jace isn’t about to make anything easy for her.
So many secrets amongst them. So much hurt. Dylan is strong and feisty. She’s not about cowering. Jace can torment her all he wants, but she doesn’t back down. Jace is complex. He can’t forget what happened, so he’s going to make her pay for what she did.
Jace and Dylan share a heat and intensity that cannot be stopped. Fighting it only makes it stronger. You can’t fight fate, no matter how hard you try.
Dylan, Jace, Oakley, Saywer, Cole and Bianca will have you wanting to know more. It was easy to get sucked into Royal Hearts Academy. Everyone has secrets. They are all struggling with their pasts. Friendship and love bonds them. They all have their own story’s to tell. I WANT MORE of this series!
A high school bully romance that was about first loves, revenge and second chances. I read it in one sitting because putting this down was not an option! This story, the characters, the OMG moments kept me hooked!
Dylan is back after she was forced to leave her home and best friend without warning four years ago. The most important thing changed and that was her best friend, Jace. He was always broody and kept his feelings hidden...now he’s angry and determined to make her life hell.
Dylan just wants to finish high school and get her best friend back. He was the first boy she ever loved and she never forgot him. She’s at a loss because she has no idea why he hates her and Jace isn’t about to make anything easy for her.
So many secrets amongst them. So much hurt. Dylan is strong and feisty. She’s not about cowering. Jace can torment her all he wants, but she doesn’t back down. Jace is complex. He can’t forget what happened, so he’s going to make her pay for what she did.
Jace and Dylan share a heat and intensity that cannot be stopped. Fighting it only makes it stronger. You can’t fight fate, no matter how hard you try.
Dylan, Jace, Oakley, Saywer, Cole and Bianca will have you wanting to know more. It was easy to get sucked into Royal Hearts Academy. Everyone has secrets. They are all struggling with their pasts. Friendship and love bonds them. They all have their own story’s to tell. I WANT MORE of this series!
January 29, 2020
I was so... TIRED reading this book lol. It’s yet another bully romance where the reason for bullying is just crap. Made no sense by the end when everything came out. And there’s. no. groveling. She takes him back with a snap of his fingers even after everything he put her through. He doesn’t do anything to earn her forgiveness. Yuck. I only ever liked the fact that Dylan stood up for herself, even if that meant throwing hands 😂
November 12, 2019
ETA: I found out a lot of things about this book and a certain somebody who puts in A LOT of effort (almost like she wrote it herself?) to defend this book thanks to a GR friend.
I also found out that I am not smart enough to read this book apparently, but that’s probably because my first language isn’t English and that makes me a shitty reviewer. Whoops.
———————————
I feel like the only good bully romance out there is Bully. I could feel the pain and I could understand why it all happened (although the guy’s reasons were still somewhat bullshit but it was just better). But here... nope.
I also found out that I am not smart enough to read this book apparently, but that’s probably because my first language isn’t English and that makes me a shitty reviewer. Whoops.
———————————
I feel like the only good bully romance out there is Bully. I could feel the pain and I could understand why it all happened (although the guy’s reasons were still somewhat bullshit but it was just better). But here... nope.
February 8, 2022
A tout moment ça bascule sur un 5 étoiles tenez vous prêts. En attendant c’est un 4.75 mdr
Read
August 21, 2019Preorder exclusively on apple here: https://apple.co/2H5LORu
(Please note: Cruel Prince will only be available on apple for pre-order. After that, it will be exclusive to Amazon.) If you prefer iBooks, I highly recommend scooping it up on pre-order so you don't miss out.) <3
(Please note: Cruel Prince will only be available on apple for pre-order. After that, it will be exclusive to Amazon.) If you prefer iBooks, I highly recommend scooping it up on pre-order so you don't miss out.) <3
September 13, 2021
4 STARS
Did this spend entirely too long on my TBR? Yes.
Did I randomly pick it up last night expecting to try the first few pages? Yes
Did I binge read it in one sitting and stay up till 3 am to finish? Also yes
Actual footage of me at work today:
Do I have regrets? Not. A. One.
Now first of all, all of my friends who have read this book and didn't wallop me over the head with their kindle to get me to read this sooner? Friendship over! You hear me? FRIENDSHIP OVER.
If you know me then you know that bully romance is my crack of choice. The meaner the hero, the better. I want the angst so thick I can taste it. I want the feels. I want to hate to love it and love to hate it. And when you spend 80% of the book wanting to cock punch the hero, well you know you're in for a good time.
Jace and Dylan became an obsession. I love the story here of childhood friends turned bitter enemies. Dylan is back in her home town after her father's fall from grace, of the lock up variety. She's expecting things to change, of course, but nothing prepares her for the sheer venom directed at her by the boy who was once her everything.
Jace was cruelty personified. He's determined to make Dylan pay for the past, though you don't quite know what it is that happened. That is slowly unraveled by small glimpses into the past.
Now if there's one thing I need in my bully romance, is a good reason for the hero to be the utter douchebag that he is. And boy did this have it. My heart broke for this tortured boy. There is so much emotion, pain, and heartbreak that's packed into this story that it sucks you right into the dark depths of it. I also want a fierce heroine and Dylan definitely gave as good as she got. This is a girl that gets pushed down but comes up swinging and I loved her for it. She definitely has a weak spot for Jace, and loves him unconditionally no matter how cruel he is. Their sexual chemistry being her particular weakness. Can't say I blame her though lol. My one quibble is I wished for a longer grovel at the end, but it was still immensely satisfying so I can't complain much. Now on to the next book because I NEED Oakley's book. My poor tortured boy.
Find me on:
No one in the whole wide world has the power to make me feel both love and hate simultaneously the way Jace Covington does. He’s the yin to my yang. The down to my up. The crazy to my normal. The damaged pieces to all my broken parts.
Did this spend entirely too long on my TBR? Yes.
Did I randomly pick it up last night expecting to try the first few pages? Yes
Did I binge read it in one sitting and stay up till 3 am to finish? Also yes
Actual footage of me at work today:
Do I have regrets? Not. A. One.
Now first of all, all of my friends who have read this book and didn't wallop me over the head with their kindle to get me to read this sooner? Friendship over! You hear me? FRIENDSHIP OVER.
If you know me then you know that bully romance is my crack of choice. The meaner the hero, the better. I want the angst so thick I can taste it. I want the feels. I want to hate to love it and love to hate it. And when you spend 80% of the book wanting to cock punch the hero, well you know you're in for a good time.
Jace and Dylan became an obsession. I love the story here of childhood friends turned bitter enemies. Dylan is back in her home town after her father's fall from grace, of the lock up variety. She's expecting things to change, of course, but nothing prepares her for the sheer venom directed at her by the boy who was once her everything.
Jace was cruelty personified. He's determined to make Dylan pay for the past, though you don't quite know what it is that happened. That is slowly unraveled by small glimpses into the past.
Now if there's one thing I need in my bully romance, is a good reason for the hero to be the utter douchebag that he is. And boy did this have it. My heart broke for this tortured boy. There is so much emotion, pain, and heartbreak that's packed into this story that it sucks you right into the dark depths of it. I also want a fierce heroine and Dylan definitely gave as good as she got. This is a girl that gets pushed down but comes up swinging and I loved her for it. She definitely has a weak spot for Jace, and loves him unconditionally no matter how cruel he is. Their sexual chemistry being her particular weakness. Can't say I blame her though lol. My one quibble is I wished for a longer grovel at the end, but it was still immensely satisfying so I can't complain much. Now on to the next book because I NEED Oakley's book. My poor tortured boy.
Find me on:
November 13, 2019
*Rant Alert*
Not impressed with this read at all. Don't know what all the high ratings are about???
The slut shaming was off the scale. I went to high school once upon a time. I honestly cannot remember one girl who begged the good looking boys for anal. NOBODY BEGS FOR ANAL PEOPLE!!!!! So sick of reading books that make every other girl a porn star wannabe and the only morally decent girls are the heroine and her designated geeky best friend. Bore off. Im bored.
Maybe I'm out of touch and that's what high schools are like now. If that's the case I'm glad I was in high school in the nineties. Otherwise I'm certain by now I'd be a 35 year old woman with genital herpes and a gaping asshole.
Not impressed with this read at all. Don't know what all the high ratings are about???
The slut shaming was off the scale. I went to high school once upon a time. I honestly cannot remember one girl who begged the good looking boys for anal. NOBODY BEGS FOR ANAL PEOPLE!!!!! So sick of reading books that make every other girl a porn star wannabe and the only morally decent girls are the heroine and her designated geeky best friend. Bore off. Im bored.
Maybe I'm out of touch and that's what high schools are like now. If that's the case I'm glad I was in high school in the nineties. Otherwise I'm certain by now I'd be a 35 year old woman with genital herpes and a gaping asshole.
August 19, 2019
Wow, what a ride! Cruel Prince took me on a roller coaster ride of feels with plenty of angsty goodness that my little heart desires. I smiled and I laughed. I cried and I cursed. And I swooned all throughout. Ashley Jade delivers a powerful and emotional story that has left me obsessed and begging for more. The Royal Hearts Academy series starts off with a bang and never lets up from beginning to end.
"No one in the whole wide world has the power to make me feel both love and hate simultaneously the way Jace Covington does. He's the yin to my yang. The down to my up. The crazy to my normal."
Dylan and Jace were the best of friends up until four years ago when tragedy struck and their worlds were forever changed. Her family immediately moved away but when a bombshell is dropped, she is forced to return to her hometown. With her life in such chaos, she knows the only thing that can possibly make things better is by seeing her old best friend again. But when the two finally come face to face, he is filled with such hate leaving her confused and wondering what she did wrong. And despite all that he throws at her, she still loves him and is desperate to win back the boy who has always had her heart.
"I lost you once...and I'll burn the whole fucking world to the ground before I ever make that mistake again."
My love for this story knows no bounds. It is EVERYTHING; the delicious cover, the fiery sexual tension and the spitfire banter - this book has it all! Cruel Prince is nothing short of wonderful with the fantastic writing that this author is known for. It is an exciting roller coaster ride from the beginning culminating in a deeply emotional ending. The author crafted a fantastically well written story that had my heart aching and racing, and my emotions constantly churning. I positively inhaled this story, and in the end was left yearning for more.
"No one in the whole wide world has the power to make me feel both love and hate simultaneously the way Jace Covington does. He's the yin to my yang. The down to my up. The crazy to my normal."
Dylan and Jace were the best of friends up until four years ago when tragedy struck and their worlds were forever changed. Her family immediately moved away but when a bombshell is dropped, she is forced to return to her hometown. With her life in such chaos, she knows the only thing that can possibly make things better is by seeing her old best friend again. But when the two finally come face to face, he is filled with such hate leaving her confused and wondering what she did wrong. And despite all that he throws at her, she still loves him and is desperate to win back the boy who has always had her heart.
"I lost you once...and I'll burn the whole fucking world to the ground before I ever make that mistake again."
My love for this story knows no bounds. It is EVERYTHING; the delicious cover, the fiery sexual tension and the spitfire banter - this book has it all! Cruel Prince is nothing short of wonderful with the fantastic writing that this author is known for. It is an exciting roller coaster ride from the beginning culminating in a deeply emotional ending. The author crafted a fantastically well written story that had my heart aching and racing, and my emotions constantly churning. I positively inhaled this story, and in the end was left yearning for more.
August 24, 2019
I need a breather after finishing Cruel Prince. This was such an exciting and entertaining book. This is why it’s called a bully romance. Cruel Prince doesn’t hold back on anything. It’s a tour de force in angst and emotional turmoil. I couldn’t get enough.
I enjoyed being in the company of Dylan, Oakley, Sawyer and the Covington siblings. This was such a fabulous and addictive roller coaster of emotions and incredible characters.
Jace and his siblings are rulers of Royal Hearts Academy and lets it be known to everyone who attend the school including Dylan who returns after four years. Jace and his gang doesn’t make it easy for her but Dylan is strong and doesn’t crawl away in a hole. She fights back and gains a kickass friend named Sawyer.
This amazing core of characters captured my attention immediately. I enjoyed every one of them. Jace and Dylan’s story is a best friends to lovers/enemies to lovers and it’s flawless executed.
Cruel Prince is book 1 of the Royal Hearts Academy series and I’m freaking hooked. A fabulous introduction and beginning to the series. I’m so excited for what’s to come. I need more of the Covington siblings and hopefully an Oakley book too.
4 Blue Stars
I enjoyed being in the company of Dylan, Oakley, Sawyer and the Covington siblings. This was such a fabulous and addictive roller coaster of emotions and incredible characters.
Jace and his siblings are rulers of Royal Hearts Academy and lets it be known to everyone who attend the school including Dylan who returns after four years. Jace and his gang doesn’t make it easy for her but Dylan is strong and doesn’t crawl away in a hole. She fights back and gains a kickass friend named Sawyer.
This amazing core of characters captured my attention immediately. I enjoyed every one of them. Jace and Dylan’s story is a best friends to lovers/enemies to lovers and it’s flawless executed.
Cruel Prince is book 1 of the Royal Hearts Academy series and I’m freaking hooked. A fabulous introduction and beginning to the series. I’m so excited for what’s to come. I need more of the Covington siblings and hopefully an Oakley book too.
4 Blue Stars
December 22, 2019
“Strong female” no I don’t think so! If she can let her hormones control her brains and just forget what that nasty weak male lead do to her just because he touches her, well that doesn’t make her strong but weak ass who has no self respect or love for herself! One of the worst “betraying body alert” books I have read in a long time!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2021
I'm a sucker for a childhood friends to enemies to lovers and this book was just perfection. It's a bully romance which is a plus too!! Dylan and Jace are literally soulmates. I did cry towards the end of the book which I wasn't expecting. I'm so excited to read the rest of the series.
"But the heart doesn’t choose who we love by their worth. Because love isn’t a choice. It’s an illogical, all-consuming consequence that results from someone stealing a vital piece of you."
"But the heart doesn’t choose who we love by their worth. Because love isn’t a choice. It’s an illogical, all-consuming consequence that results from someone stealing a vital piece of you."
March 4, 2020
DnF
Man! Its sucks that I have so many DNF early in 2020. Cruel Prince is a carbon copy of Bully by Penelope Douglas. While Bully hits the right note in every twist and climax, Cruel Prince lacks of originality.
Also the characters do not develop very well so the chemistry is forced. The conversation is stiff and shallow. It does not help with building that climax nor emotional attachment to the characters. There are so many secondary characters on this book that I got confuse.
I try to keep going. Abiut 4 hours left from the audio book, I give up. Really I am sorry...
2 stars
Man! Its sucks that I have so many DNF early in 2020. Cruel Prince is a carbon copy of Bully by Penelope Douglas. While Bully hits the right note in every twist and climax, Cruel Prince lacks of originality.
Also the characters do not develop very well so the chemistry is forced. The conversation is stiff and shallow. It does not help with building that climax nor emotional attachment to the characters. There are so many secondary characters on this book that I got confuse.
I try to keep going. Abiut 4 hours left from the audio book, I give up. Really I am sorry...
2 stars
August 23, 2019
For ONCE the hype is real!!!!
I have been dying to read this book for forever now! The teasers, the synopsis...they captured me and I wanted this book ASAP!
I had so such high expectations and they were all worth it..all that excitement...the constant need for update on the book release was worth it all!
I don't know what's happening to me but I've been gravitating a lot towards the enemies to lovers trope. So take my word for it when I tell you that I have been constantly reading soooo many books from that trope. Some made me giddy with joy, some turned me into an addict wanting more and more and there were a few that REALLY tested my patience. CRUEL PRINCE was DIVINE!
I couldn't get enough of this book. Books from this trope have THE BEST angsty chemistry and boy this one was good.
This book was a sucker bunch of emotions. I honestly did not expect to cry as much as I did. But what you can count on is the constant wave of different emotions that you experience definitely makes this book worth the buck.
“Is that why you wore this sexy little shirt tonight?” His warm breath tickles the side of my neck. “Hoping to get my attention.”
“No.”
That earns me a husky chuckle. “Too bad.” He presses his lips against my throat. “Because it’s working. You have all my attention.” He walks his fingers down my torso. “Question is…what are you going to do with it?”
Dylan and Jace has one of the best LOVE/HATE chemistry ever!
The secondary characters deserve their own book because I would 100% read them.
I had such an amazing time reading Cruel Prince.
I have been dying to read this book for forever now! The teasers, the synopsis...they captured me and I wanted this book ASAP!
I had so such high expectations and they were all worth it..all that excitement...the constant need for update on the book release was worth it all!
I don't know what's happening to me but I've been gravitating a lot towards the enemies to lovers trope. So take my word for it when I tell you that I have been constantly reading soooo many books from that trope. Some made me giddy with joy, some turned me into an addict wanting more and more and there were a few that REALLY tested my patience. CRUEL PRINCE was DIVINE!
I couldn't get enough of this book. Books from this trope have THE BEST angsty chemistry and boy this one was good.
This book was a sucker bunch of emotions. I honestly did not expect to cry as much as I did. But what you can count on is the constant wave of different emotions that you experience definitely makes this book worth the buck.
“Is that why you wore this sexy little shirt tonight?” His warm breath tickles the side of my neck. “Hoping to get my attention.”
“No.”
That earns me a husky chuckle. “Too bad.” He presses his lips against my throat. “Because it’s working. You have all my attention.” He walks his fingers down my torso. “Question is…what are you going to do with it?”
Dylan and Jace has one of the best LOVE/HATE chemistry ever!
The secondary characters deserve their own book because I would 100% read them.
I had such an amazing time reading Cruel Prince.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,675 reviews