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Sweetest Revenge #1
Bloody Princess
My sister’s death was ruled an accident, but it was all a lie...
They’re the kings of Welhurst University, heirs to the most powerful, corrupt, and ruthless families in Ascendence Bay. Each of them is stunningly gorgeous, rich, and talented.
Nobody is that perfect. All of them hide dark, dangerous secrets. And I’m going to expose them. I’m going to make everyone see exactly who they are.
Murderers.
I have skills they would never expect, and I plan on using my talents to make the Boys of Ascendence Bay pay in blood for the loss of my sister. I’ll do whatever it takes to get them to crack and confess to their crimes.
The closer I get to finding out which mafia heir is the killer, the more I realize I didn't know my sister as well as I thought. Big, ugly secrets come to light that will change my family forever.
But what's worse is the enemies I thought I needed to destroy are more complex and tempting than I ever imagined.
Can I survive the truth being uncovered or will I be buried by the lies?
If you love the twists and turns of Caroline Peckham and the steam of Tate James, then you'll love Bloody Princess!
Scroll Up and One-Click Bloody Princess to start the sexy, sinful series today!
They’re the kings of Welhurst University, heirs to the most powerful, corrupt, and ruthless families in Ascendence Bay. Each of them is stunningly gorgeous, rich, and talented.
Nobody is that perfect. All of them hide dark, dangerous secrets. And I’m going to expose them. I’m going to make everyone see exactly who they are.
Murderers.
I have skills they would never expect, and I plan on using my talents to make the Boys of Ascendence Bay pay in blood for the loss of my sister. I’ll do whatever it takes to get them to crack and confess to their crimes.
The closer I get to finding out which mafia heir is the killer, the more I realize I didn't know my sister as well as I thought. Big, ugly secrets come to light that will change my family forever.
But what's worse is the enemies I thought I needed to destroy are more complex and tempting than I ever imagined.
Can I survive the truth being uncovered or will I be buried by the lies?
If you love the twists and turns of Caroline Peckham and the steam of Tate James, then you'll love Bloody Princess!
Scroll Up and One-Click Bloody Princess to start the sexy, sinful series today!
296 pages, Paperback
First published August 27, 2021
1261 people are currently reading
4216 people want to read
About the author
Helen Scott
109 books1,271 followersUSA Today bestselling author Helen Scott spends her time alternating between fantasy and reality. She likes to think she’d be sorted into Hufflepuff and would have been a Physical Kid from Brakebills. Her days are fueled by tea and cuddles from her four-legged kids and amazing husband in their home in the Chicago suburbs.
When not reading or writing, Helen can be found baking, enjoying a walk in the woods, crafting, or playing video games. She’s a lover of sushi and K-Dramas and is convinced there is magic in the world if you know where to look.
Whether paranormal or contemporary, Helen loves writing sassy, kick-butt heroines and drool-worthy love interests. She's the author of the House of Wolves and Magic series, the Cerberus series, and the Of Demons and Dragons series.
Subscribe to Helen’s newsletter for a free book to get started on the adventure today! https://geni.us/HelenScottNewsletter
When not reading or writing, Helen can be found baking, enjoying a walk in the woods, crafting, or playing video games. She’s a lover of sushi and K-Dramas and is convinced there is magic in the world if you know where to look.
Whether paranormal or contemporary, Helen loves writing sassy, kick-butt heroines and drool-worthy love interests. She's the author of the House of Wolves and Magic series, the Cerberus series, and the Of Demons and Dragons series.
Subscribe to Helen’s newsletter for a free book to get started on the adventure today! https://geni.us/HelenScottNewsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 308 reviews
October 9, 2022
I definitely need more to happen in the next book.
April 24, 2023
4/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Dark college romance
Secret society
Revenge
Why choose?
I absolutely love the FMC Lyric. She is such a bad ass. She's been through so much and has came out the other end so strong and although I feel bad for what she has had to go through to be who she turned out to be, I think she's awesome.
The men.. okay, so I think I'm currently liking Keats and Atlas the most. Thayer is barely mentioned, he only has a few scenes and Jude is mentioned a bit but only negatively. He seems to be a real prick lol. Which I'm sure means he'll probably be my favorite later when he "comes around."
I will say book 1 isn't very spicy, but there are some angsty/tension filled scenes, some making out and some handsy stuff. ;) Book 2 is when the spice picks up, which I only know because it hit at chapter 5 which I have read through before writing this review.
Can't wait to finish book 2!
2/5 🌶️
Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Dark college romance
Secret society
Revenge
Why choose?
I absolutely love the FMC Lyric. She is such a bad ass. She's been through so much and has came out the other end so strong and although I feel bad for what she has had to go through to be who she turned out to be, I think she's awesome.
The men.. okay, so I think I'm currently liking Keats and Atlas the most. Thayer is barely mentioned, he only has a few scenes and Jude is mentioned a bit but only negatively. He seems to be a real prick lol. Which I'm sure means he'll probably be my favorite later when he "comes around."
I will say book 1 isn't very spicy, but there are some angsty/tension filled scenes, some making out and some handsy stuff. ;) Book 2 is when the spice picks up, which I only know because it hit at chapter 5 which I have read through before writing this review.
Can't wait to finish book 2!
January 13, 2025
It’s not the dark romance that made me only give two stars. Like you can sense that this won’t be butterflies and hearts but….. BUT
It was boring as fuck.
Like seriously just not entertaining at all.
Lyric was so annoying like we get it…. Your sister is dead and you want revenge. No need to say that in every freaking chapter.
It was so annoying to read this idk weird sorority shit and her simply accepting that. Like the whole time she thought how badass she was but then she never fought for herself?
It’s a slowburn and nothing really happens that mattered.
It was boring as fuck.
Like seriously just not entertaining at all.
Lyric was so annoying like we get it…. Your sister is dead and you want revenge. No need to say that in every freaking chapter.
It was so annoying to read this idk weird sorority shit and her simply accepting that. Like the whole time she thought how badass she was but then she never fought for herself?
It’s a slowburn and nothing really happens that mattered.
September 2, 2021
In this book we follow Lyric on her quest to find out who is responsible for the death of her oldest sister. Lyric starts college and re connects with while try to infiltrate her sisters friends group who happen to be the four boys from Ascendence Bay who are from rich, powerful and influential families.
There are multiple things happening in this book, with several of the characters that is setting up for the rest of the series. There have been small glimpses into the past and a few hints dropped. I am very intrigued to see where thus is headed in future books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There are multiple things happening in this book, with several of the characters that is setting up for the rest of the series. There have been small glimpses into the past and a few hints dropped. I am very intrigued to see where thus is headed in future books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 25, 2023
This book is a little slow in the beginning however it is great story. I have so many questions now that I need answered like yesterday! I’ve had this book in my library for a long time and never touched it because the name kind of threw me off, but I understand now why it is called what it is. I wish there was more of Jude, Thayer, Atlas, and Keats of course, but there are more books so hopefully I will get more from them. I have so many theories running through my mind right now and I am really hoping it’ll be a big plot twist and be someone I never suspected, but I have a feeling it will probably be who and why I think it is.
Want to read
September 27, 2022Okay I really love this cover. The model is gorgeous, but the cover itself doesn’t feel polished, so I’m here for it.
August 27, 2021
Ok i dont normally do Dark or Contemporary or at least i dint think so but as this is a RH author who i love i thought what the hack and boy I am hooked!!
Amazing character dynamics and relationship building plus slow burn with plenty of sizzle and plots twists.
Lyric is hard on the outside, focused and determined but we get glimpses that she may have a soft centre and a few vulnerabilities which i absolutely love.
That ending though!!! Cliff hanger central but certainly has you hanging on for book 2 with anticipation.
Amazing character dynamics and relationship building plus slow burn with plenty of sizzle and plots twists.
Lyric is hard on the outside, focused and determined but we get glimpses that she may have a soft centre and a few vulnerabilities which i absolutely love.
That ending though!!! Cliff hanger central but certainly has you hanging on for book 2 with anticipation.
April 24, 2023
Lyric is a badass in every way. Nothing and no one will stop her from finding out the truth about her sisters death and those responsible. If she has to be a chameleon and go under cover at university and even join a sorority, so be it. As she worms her way into the lives of four men, her future harem, she’s learning there’s a lot more to them than meets the eye, though it was kinda annoying for her to go standard hormonal bimbo whenever they were around. A lot of emphasis is given into her past and how her childhood was spent being molded into a hardened killer by her very unloving father. So far we’ve seen snippets of her dark-side and I am beyond ready to witness it full frontal so she can get some answers. Of course while she’s snooping it appears there may be someone on the outside one step ahead and it’s making me twitchy because I like her and don’t want her to fail or get blindsided. Seeing her home life and what she’s made to do for the family is very disturbing and definitely on the darker side. Basically the cover is a good indication without explicit trigger warnings of what kind of shit goes on here so it’s not for the faint of heart (but again I don’t think we’ve seen this series at its darkest yet). So far Lyric only has one person on her side and I’m ready for that number to grow and more importantly I’m ready for her to stop pretending and let the real Lyric out.
September 1, 2021
This one had me intrigued just by the cover. So here we have Lyric who harbors a pretty big secret. Well a couple of them. One is she is a trained killer, like for real, and another is her twin sister is alive. She also had another sister that she is seeking vengeance or answers for. So you get drawn in immediately. There is a lot of mystery cause we are trying to figure out what is going on. We know that she is going to school to get close to Atlas, Jude, Thayer, and Keats. We learn that these men were her sisters friend and supposedly had a hand in her death. Now Lyric is trying to find out what happened. We learn a few things along the way but we also see the chemistry is rising with a few of the guys. She is a tough chick but acting the part of a girl who knows nothing. She also pledges to sorority and let me just say she needs to put some of these girls in their place. She doesn't she has a role to play. Can she keep her heart out of all this mess? Will she be able to navigate through all the obstacles to find out the truth. What about the guys? How do they really feel? A lot happens but not enough. I can't wait to read what will happen next.
August 21, 2021
OMFG what an amazing book - I finished this in just one day!!
Lyric is as tough as nails with a true inner strength! We learn tidbits of her story throughout and it is rough, you wonder how she’s still going! 💪🏻
We learn that she is hell bent on revenge for her sisters death that isn’t clear cut and you certainly get the idea that all isn’t what it seems the further you read.
The Boys of Ascendance Bay are all over the place, you’ve got the a**hole, the playboy, the friend and the pretty much silent one. The multi-POV really helps gain some insight into their d**kish behaviours and what their feeling.
Lyrics connection to them is through her sister so that’s something different. Although it’s full of angst due to actions and betrayals - especially towards the end 😮😮
All the families are part of the underworld although not clear what there roles are are the Boys rolls on there. And there’s mention of a larger shady organisation!
It’s brilliantly woven together to give you snippets of info to keep you intrigued and reading on without being shallow!
This book has got it all 💗
Lyric is as tough as nails with a true inner strength! We learn tidbits of her story throughout and it is rough, you wonder how she’s still going! 💪🏻
We learn that she is hell bent on revenge for her sisters death that isn’t clear cut and you certainly get the idea that all isn’t what it seems the further you read.
The Boys of Ascendance Bay are all over the place, you’ve got the a**hole, the playboy, the friend and the pretty much silent one. The multi-POV really helps gain some insight into their d**kish behaviours and what their feeling.
Lyrics connection to them is through her sister so that’s something different. Although it’s full of angst due to actions and betrayals - especially towards the end 😮😮
All the families are part of the underworld although not clear what there roles are are the Boys rolls on there. And there’s mention of a larger shady organisation!
It’s brilliantly woven together to give you snippets of info to keep you intrigued and reading on without being shallow!
This book has got it all 💗
August 27, 2021
Oh men, Lyric is out for blood! But, not all is what it seems! A lot of missunderstandings, lies, evil planos. Who is telling the truth? Are the boys really guilty? They sure are hot! Wow, such a dark book and still it gets you and takes you to the deapest darkest center of Lyric. That end... Damm. I just have to wait for the next book to find out!
September 2, 2021
Dark and delicious start to an amazing series . . . looking forward to more . . . patiently awaiting the next book in the series . . . well done!
June 10, 2022
Un gran libro de nada😂
December 24, 2025
Plot: 3/5 • Smut: 0/5 ————-> This was exceptionally boring and repetitive until the last 30 pages.
Lyrics sister was murdered and she’s out for vengeance. She goes off to the same college as her sister did. She tries to infiltrate her sister’s former best friend group. Two of them seem easier than the other two.
While doing all this investigating she also pledges a sorority. The same sorority her mom pledged in college. She’s run through hoops and bounds as a pledge. The two guys who are in touch with her, Atlas and Keats, try to convince her to quit.
This kept going in circles. Repeating things. There were some exciting parts. IE- when we find out more about her home life. When she gets to meet up with her twin sister. But this seriously dragged through the middle, and then snatched you back in at the end. I’m torn on continuing.
Lyrics sister was murdered and she’s out for vengeance. She goes off to the same college as her sister did. She tries to infiltrate her sister’s former best friend group. Two of them seem easier than the other two.
While doing all this investigating she also pledges a sorority. The same sorority her mom pledged in college. She’s run through hoops and bounds as a pledge. The two guys who are in touch with her, Atlas and Keats, try to convince her to quit.
This kept going in circles. Repeating things. There were some exciting parts. IE- when we find out more about her home life. When she gets to meet up with her twin sister. But this seriously dragged through the middle, and then snatched you back in at the end. I’m torn on continuing.
October 11, 2022
I just couldn't stay engaged.
I started this a while ago, and then shelved it because of the whole revenge plot thing.
While, the revenge part doesn't bother me so much, its the lying I think that bothers me.. or the deception of it all.
But I had recently read another revenge book (that I loved) so I figured I'd give this a shot again, thinking maybe my new appreciation for the trope might change how I feel about this book.
I can't say if it did or didn't... because I was just bored.
Me reading this...
Full disclosure: I skimmed. A lot.
Anyways. The MC, Lyric... I kind of didn't like her.
When she interacts with the guys, she puts on this persona of being a ditzy, immature, boy-crazed college girl.
Didn't like that. I get it, she's doing it as a part of her mission. I expected/hoped she'd drop it at some point in the book and just be herself with the guys... but that doesn't happen.
I just... wasn't impressed by her.
The guys...
That is all.
Anyways. This book is really repetitive (hence my excessive skimming) and after a while its just annoying. Like, we get it.
While I can see why some people would love this, I don't have the patience for it. Especially in the "dark" books or where the heroine is mistreated or going through things, I like to see vindication or validation.. something. There's none of that in this book. Sorry if that's a spoiler, but if I had known prior to venturing into the mind of Lyric that she's gonna have to put up w/ all the stuff she has to endure for multiple books, I wouldn't have bothered with reading it.
Anyhooskies.
Definitely pay attention to the TW/CW in the beginning, because there is some trauma that happens both prior to the events in the book as well as in the book itself.
If you're an impatient b*tch like me, you might get frustrated reading this as well, so I wouldn't recommend.
Otherwise, go forth and conquer... the book.
Repetitiveness aside, it's well written. Just, in my opinion, the story progresses too slowly.
I started this a while ago, and then shelved it because of the whole revenge plot thing.
While, the revenge part doesn't bother me so much, its the lying I think that bothers me.. or the deception of it all.
But I had recently read another revenge book (that I loved) so I figured I'd give this a shot again, thinking maybe my new appreciation for the trope might change how I feel about this book.
I can't say if it did or didn't... because I was just bored.
Me reading this...
Full disclosure: I skimmed. A lot.
Anyways. The MC, Lyric... I kind of didn't like her.
When she interacts with the guys, she puts on this persona of being a ditzy, immature, boy-crazed college girl.
Didn't like that. I get it, she's doing it as a part of her mission. I expected/hoped she'd drop it at some point in the book and just be herself with the guys... but that doesn't happen.
I just... wasn't impressed by her.
The guys...
That is all.
Anyways. This book is really repetitive (hence my excessive skimming) and after a while its just annoying. Like, we get it.
While I can see why some people would love this, I don't have the patience for it. Especially in the "dark" books or where the heroine is mistreated or going through things, I like to see vindication or validation.. something. There's none of that in this book. Sorry if that's a spoiler, but if I had known prior to venturing into the mind of Lyric that she's gonna have to put up w/ all the stuff she has to endure for multiple books, I wouldn't have bothered with reading it.
Anyhooskies.
Definitely pay attention to the TW/CW in the beginning, because there is some trauma that happens both prior to the events in the book as well as in the book itself.
If you're an impatient b*tch like me, you might get frustrated reading this as well, so I wouldn't recommend.
Otherwise, go forth and conquer... the book.
Repetitiveness aside, it's well written. Just, in my opinion, the story progresses too slowly.
September 5, 2021
it's Lyric against the Boys of Ascendence Bay in a twisted attempt to bring her sister's murders to justice ... cannot wait for more!
August 22, 2021
Lyric is out to get the ones she suspects are guilty of her sisters death. She uncovers more than she bargins for. She must keep her dark secrets while trying to uncover theirs. Great first book in this series.
September 5, 2021
Great story. I absolutely love Helen Scott’s stories. But this is the first I have read from her that was dark and not paranormal. I can say wow. So good. Loved the storyline and characters. Helen Scott and Zoey Shelby did a great job with this story. It was so good!!! Must read!!!!
September 17, 2021
This is book one of the Sweetest Revenge series and the main character is Lyric Sterling, who lost her mother when she was really young and then her eldest sister Alyssa two years ago in what was deemed accident, but which she knows was anything but, and then her twin sister Melody committed suicide just a year ago. Lyric has been raised pretty much by her father’s evil right hand man Sampson, handed over to him, to do with as he pleased to make her ready for her role in the family. She blames the Boys of Ascendance Bay, Atlas Lockwood, Keats Kingsley, Thayer Covington and Jude Davenport, for her Alyssa’s death. They were all supposed to be her friends and looking out for her, but after break-up with Jude, things seemed to go wrong and they were all more distant to her. Lyric has forced her way into attending the same college, Welhurst University, where they are all studying for roles in their family’s businesses. Lyric is now the only surviving heir to the Sterling line and has been brutally trained by Sampson in all manner of torture, interrogation, seduction and more, all so she can be used by her father for his business needs, often calling her to service whichever of his friends or business partners he wants to influence, having even sold off her virginity in the same manner. Her oldest sister was brought up as the heir apparent had had a fairly normal life, allowed friends and to go out and about, whilst Melody was sent abroad to study when she rebelled, leaving Lyric home alone, to suffer under Sampson’s hands and his punishments.
Family secrets are going to be revealed and not all of them will be pleasant. Lyric has a new roommate called Evie, who quickly learns that Lyric doesn’t like to be touched and introduces her to the social media apps that seem to track every move of the Boys of Ascendance Bay, making her desire to find out which one was responsible for Alyssa’s death, all that much more difficult. She also joins up for the Pi Ep sorority, knowing that they party with the APT sorority, which the boys belong to. That will not be a nice experience, as some of the sorority sisters take an instant dislike to her because of her closeness to the four boys, known also as the Kings of Welhurst. Their families and hers are among the most powerful families in the area, but there are also some more dangerous groups that no-one is supposed to know about, called the Regents and the Collective, but she isn’t supposed to know about them! Someone she can trust is hacking into the college’s records to get whatever information they can about the boys and ensure Lyric teams up with a couple of them and also doesn’t have to worry about her grades. She can’t wait until she is twenty one and can get access to her trust fund, because then she can really make everyone pay. She can’t kill the boys, but has to find other ways to make them pay and gather evidence to prove what she finds out. Her own mother’s death as well as Alyssa’s, were covered up and the truth not revealed, to keep the family secrets hidden.
Now, it looks like Lyric and her helper will be blowing the secrets out of the water before too long, but they may bring with them, some upsetting revelations. She has never been allowed to have a boyfriend, even though she has been used and abused under her father’s orders, and feels herself pulled emotionally towards at least two of the boys, finding out that the people she thought were her enemies may be suffering just as much as she is, just in different ways. A deeply disturbing read, as you peel back layer after layer of Lyric’s supposed childhood and find out what she has had to endure and how she has been forcefully shaped into the person she is now. Her desire for revenge is deep and has left her finally able to remove herself from her home life, but still have to obey any calls to come home at a moment’s notice, having gotten her father to agree she can earn a degree like he did, but knowing full well she may only get a year or two at most away from home. So much more to come in this story and the suffering that both Lyric and Melody have endured to get to this point, but also the many secrets starting to come out of the woodwork will make for interesting reading. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and find out what is going to happen next and whether she become romantically involved with any of the boys, whilst trying to find out their darkest secrets. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Family secrets are going to be revealed and not all of them will be pleasant. Lyric has a new roommate called Evie, who quickly learns that Lyric doesn’t like to be touched and introduces her to the social media apps that seem to track every move of the Boys of Ascendance Bay, making her desire to find out which one was responsible for Alyssa’s death, all that much more difficult. She also joins up for the Pi Ep sorority, knowing that they party with the APT sorority, which the boys belong to. That will not be a nice experience, as some of the sorority sisters take an instant dislike to her because of her closeness to the four boys, known also as the Kings of Welhurst. Their families and hers are among the most powerful families in the area, but there are also some more dangerous groups that no-one is supposed to know about, called the Regents and the Collective, but she isn’t supposed to know about them! Someone she can trust is hacking into the college’s records to get whatever information they can about the boys and ensure Lyric teams up with a couple of them and also doesn’t have to worry about her grades. She can’t wait until she is twenty one and can get access to her trust fund, because then she can really make everyone pay. She can’t kill the boys, but has to find other ways to make them pay and gather evidence to prove what she finds out. Her own mother’s death as well as Alyssa’s, were covered up and the truth not revealed, to keep the family secrets hidden.
Now, it looks like Lyric and her helper will be blowing the secrets out of the water before too long, but they may bring with them, some upsetting revelations. She has never been allowed to have a boyfriend, even though she has been used and abused under her father’s orders, and feels herself pulled emotionally towards at least two of the boys, finding out that the people she thought were her enemies may be suffering just as much as she is, just in different ways. A deeply disturbing read, as you peel back layer after layer of Lyric’s supposed childhood and find out what she has had to endure and how she has been forcefully shaped into the person she is now. Her desire for revenge is deep and has left her finally able to remove herself from her home life, but still have to obey any calls to come home at a moment’s notice, having gotten her father to agree she can earn a degree like he did, but knowing full well she may only get a year or two at most away from home. So much more to come in this story and the suffering that both Lyric and Melody have endured to get to this point, but also the many secrets starting to come out of the woodwork will make for interesting reading. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series and find out what is going to happen next and whether she become romantically involved with any of the boys, whilst trying to find out their darkest secrets. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
February 14, 2022
3.0/3.5⭐ Overall, I like the premise and definitely has me curious about what all is going on. I like the mystery aspect as well hints at secret society (that will presumably be more important to the plot in the next books). I like the FMC trying to figure out who she is on top of everything else, plus her having skills in things, granted that came with a heavy price and trauma. I'm rounding down rather than up mostly because I needed more out of the characters. I don't know enough about them or feel enough connection with them, feel a sense of understanding with them, feel invested in what happens next for them.
FMC is more than what she seems - trained in weapons and interrogation, among other things, but only her father and his second really know this. She's gone to small elitist college on a revenge quest, but needs to learn what really happened to her sister before she doles out the punishment. She suspects the four best friends of her sister (for reasons that are still unclear to me why she suspects them with such certainty, but at least she seems to be after the truth and evidence).
For the most part, I liked Lyric but I also didn't feel like I really understood her very well. There's a lot that's stated and feels too surface level, rather than deep and complex. The first book has a lot of set up, so I'm hoping to see more depth and layers to her as well as her growth arc and relationships build with the Hs. There's a lot of things happening and nothing happening, if that makes any sense.
I like having the POVs of Atlas and Keats (two of the best friends / suspects / potential Hs). I wish they had been developed a bit more though... Something to give me the impression that they might be strong enough to be her match. All I really got was rich frat boys with family obligations and mentions of a secret society. I really want to know WTF Jude's problem is but clearly we have a ways to go on that.
This is the first I've read of these authors. There's some unevenness to the flow that I only mention because it did pull me out of the story. Sometimes it felt like it was getting repetitive. Like instead of weaving in more along the way, along with hints of more, there's stuff that feels like repeat rather than progression. And some of it is legit repeat, like we didn't need the reminder and now this feels awkward 😅 Why is this being said again.... again. 🙈
FMC is more than what she seems - trained in weapons and interrogation, among other things, but only her father and his second really know this. She's gone to small elitist college on a revenge quest, but needs to learn what really happened to her sister before she doles out the punishment. She suspects the four best friends of her sister (for reasons that are still unclear to me why she suspects them with such certainty, but at least she seems to be after the truth and evidence).
For the most part, I liked Lyric but I also didn't feel like I really understood her very well. There's a lot that's stated and feels too surface level, rather than deep and complex. The first book has a lot of set up, so I'm hoping to see more depth and layers to her as well as her growth arc and relationships build with the Hs. There's a lot of things happening and nothing happening, if that makes any sense.
I like having the POVs of Atlas and Keats (two of the best friends / suspects / potential Hs). I wish they had been developed a bit more though... Something to give me the impression that they might be strong enough to be her match. All I really got was rich frat boys with family obligations and mentions of a secret society. I really want to know WTF Jude's problem is but clearly we have a ways to go on that.
This is the first I've read of these authors. There's some unevenness to the flow that I only mention because it did pull me out of the story. Sometimes it felt like it was getting repetitive. Like instead of weaving in more along the way, along with hints of more, there's stuff that feels like repeat rather than progression. And some of it is legit repeat, like we didn't need the reminder and now this feels awkward 😅 Why is this being said again.... again. 🙈
August 27, 2021
I'm a Scorpio. When I was younger there was a moment where I was doubting if I was a Scorpio or a Sagittarius, but how there could have been any confusion concerning my sign is unclear. I'm secretive and a little closed off, but I have fire and emotions rushing through my veins and an unhealthy fascination with the dark side of life and people. So, even though I normally don't like contemporary, my inner Scorpio couldn't say no to an arc for this book.
This book is everything it promises and even a little more. The tension throughout the entire story is amazing. There is tension between the characters, both romantically, sexually and furiously. There is tension concerning the death of the oldest sister, with loads of questions still to be answered in the books to come. And then there is all the tension concerning the sorority, I'm glad I never aimed too high when it comes to that, and the family business.
My inner Scorpio craving for some darkness for sure wasn't disappointed. There are quite a few scenes showing very clearly that our heroine also has a dark side and then there are all the scenes we're not really shown, but we are told they've happened. It's far from pretty. What happens in the sorority is far from pretty, what happens in the family is far from pretty and the guys handling the entire situation is far from pretty too.
It makes sense that our heroine is a little closed off when you realize everything that has been done to her and that is still being done to her. This is a world where emotions are weapons. You're either the one using them against others or others are using your emotions against you. And yet, we see glimpses of emotions, of feelings and longings and wants. I truly hope, because I have started liking her and rooting for her, that she will get the chance to discover in later books that emotions can also be good and nice and pleasant.
I at least can't wait for the next book!
This book is everything it promises and even a little more. The tension throughout the entire story is amazing. There is tension between the characters, both romantically, sexually and furiously. There is tension concerning the death of the oldest sister, with loads of questions still to be answered in the books to come. And then there is all the tension concerning the sorority, I'm glad I never aimed too high when it comes to that, and the family business.
My inner Scorpio craving for some darkness for sure wasn't disappointed. There are quite a few scenes showing very clearly that our heroine also has a dark side and then there are all the scenes we're not really shown, but we are told they've happened. It's far from pretty. What happens in the sorority is far from pretty, what happens in the family is far from pretty and the guys handling the entire situation is far from pretty too.
It makes sense that our heroine is a little closed off when you realize everything that has been done to her and that is still being done to her. This is a world where emotions are weapons. You're either the one using them against others or others are using your emotions against you. And yet, we see glimpses of emotions, of feelings and longings and wants. I truly hope, because I have started liking her and rooting for her, that she will get the chance to discover in later books that emotions can also be good and nice and pleasant.
I at least can't wait for the next book!
September 17, 2021
Even though I rarely read contemporary, I am very happy that I have made an exception in this case.
Lyric is as rich and as broken as they come, seeking revenge for the loss of her sisters, blaming the obvious culprits. Her resilience and determination are admirable, and it can be even inspiring how much sh*t she can deal with. But all the challenges and trials have scarred her, broken her to million pieces and left alone to put herself back together. She has created a hard shell on the outside, but her heart is not yet dead, not turned to ice. When she tastes a bit of freedom at the college, and starts getting to know her enemies, her hard edges are softening... while causing a rift between her and her twin sister, Melody. The whole story is dark and fast paced, set into a typical college YA world but with dark undertones, violence, and manipulation aplenty. I was very drawn to the characters, hoping to get to know them better, seeing all sides of their personalities, being invested in really understanding them. Which said, I hope we get more information about some of the boys - e.g. Thayer remains a mystery to me still. And that cliffhanger at the end... I want the next book right this instant. I only ever had this strong response to this type of story for one author only, but after reading Bloody Princess I may include a second name on the list of "read whatever she writes" :)) Amazing series starter!
Lyric is as rich and as broken as they come, seeking revenge for the loss of her sisters, blaming the obvious culprits. Her resilience and determination are admirable, and it can be even inspiring how much sh*t she can deal with. But all the challenges and trials have scarred her, broken her to million pieces and left alone to put herself back together. She has created a hard shell on the outside, but her heart is not yet dead, not turned to ice. When she tastes a bit of freedom at the college, and starts getting to know her enemies, her hard edges are softening... while causing a rift between her and her twin sister, Melody. The whole story is dark and fast paced, set into a typical college YA world but with dark undertones, violence, and manipulation aplenty. I was very drawn to the characters, hoping to get to know them better, seeing all sides of their personalities, being invested in really understanding them. Which said, I hope we get more information about some of the boys - e.g. Thayer remains a mystery to me still. And that cliffhanger at the end... I want the next book right this instant. I only ever had this strong response to this type of story for one author only, but after reading Bloody Princess I may include a second name on the list of "read whatever she writes" :)) Amazing series starter!
November 29, 2021
Let me just start by saying Lyric is as bad a**. She’s grown up in a world where she was basically secretly trained to seduce men and kick butt. She’s also faced a lot of tragedies and loss. Her loss is what brings her to where she’s at, seeking vengeance on The Boys of Ascendance Bay.
The boys all come from the wealthiest and most powerful families. They all have their own dynamic and shift in how they play apart in Lyrics world. She’s the little sister of their friend who passed, but some don’t quite look at her that way anymore.
There is so many different personalities but they all mesh so well. There is great twists and turns and something always leaving you on your toes guessing and wondering what’s coming next.
It literally takes me back to college days and everything about being in a sorority. There were so many moments I felt like fit my memories so vividly. It’s been amazing to connect to it on a different level.
The cliffhangers really keep you hanging and wanting more. However there’s going to be a bit of a wait til we get book 3 in Lyrics story. (Currently set for April 2022).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The boys all come from the wealthiest and most powerful families. They all have their own dynamic and shift in how they play apart in Lyrics world. She’s the little sister of their friend who passed, but some don’t quite look at her that way anymore.
There is so many different personalities but they all mesh so well. There is great twists and turns and something always leaving you on your toes guessing and wondering what’s coming next.
It literally takes me back to college days and everything about being in a sorority. There were so many moments I felt like fit my memories so vividly. It’s been amazing to connect to it on a different level.
The cliffhangers really keep you hanging and wanting more. However there’s going to be a bit of a wait til we get book 3 in Lyrics story. (Currently set for April 2022).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 8, 2021
Oh, this one is definitely a slow burn. Lyric's older sister died, it was ruled an accident, but she doesn't believe that. With the help of another (who I won't mention as it could be deemed a spoiler), she manages to infiltrate herself into the lives of the Boys of Ascendence Bay. Four boys, well men who were her sister's best friends. The boys can't believe how much Lyric has grown up, in fact, two of them are attracted to her, one is angry that she is even there and the last is a little meh.
None of the characters really seem to be who they are on the outside, and Lyric is a prime example of that. There is so much to her character that you don't realise when you start the story, but you learn so much about her and her life as the story goes on. She's been through a lot throughout her life, and honestly, she'd probably hit me but I just want to give her a hug.
Can't wait for the next one in the series, because I need to know more about Lyric and the guys!
None of the characters really seem to be who they are on the outside, and Lyric is a prime example of that. There is so much to her character that you don't realise when you start the story, but you learn so much about her and her life as the story goes on. She's been through a lot throughout her life, and honestly, she'd probably hit me but I just want to give her a hug.
Can't wait for the next one in the series, because I need to know more about Lyric and the guys!
August 31, 2021
This is the first book I’ve read written by Helen Scott and I absolutely loved it! I read the entire book in one sitting, foregoing sleep to find out what happened next. It was well worth it.
Lyric is a strong FMC out for revenge after the murder of her sister Alyssa. Actually, strong is an understatement in describing Lyric. She has enrolled in college to get close to Atlas, Keats, Jude and Thayer (her sister’s “best friends”) to find out which of them killed her and exact her revenge on the guilty. To do so, she pays her way into a few of their classes and joins their sister sorority. What Lyric has endured in her life thus far has made her a doubly reinforced tank to any outside influence. Watching her have to pretend these sorority mean girl tactics are actually affecting her is both humorous and tragic for so many reasons. First, she’s too young to have to endured the need to turn off her feelings. Secondly, sororities treating their pledges like they do in this book is disgusting. It’s infuriating to watch Lyric take it knowing what she can do, but it’s understandable as to the necessity of WHY she can’t show her cards now. I am counting down the moments until Lyric serves Paige her just desserts. THAT will be well worth the wait.
Everyone sees Lyric as some naive rich girl who’s weak and can’t protect herself and that’s EXACTLY what she wants them to see. In reality, she’s a trained killer. She can probably incapacitate her entire sorority without messing up her hair or makeup.
She has perfected her mask over the years to survive Sampson, her father and everything involving their business. No one’s ever been able to see through it. No one, until Keats and Atlas. She’s intent on throwing them off and getting closer to them by seducing them. And she’s successful in throwing them off. What she didn’t expect was for them to throw her off too. They both make her feel things she never thought she was capable of feeling. And, for that, I wanted to throat punch them both at the end off this book. I’m eagerly anticipating how Lyric deals with those two specifically in the next book (p.s. if she could low key offer them a second pair of panties so they don’t have to share, I would be beyond elated to see their reactions). However, I’m trusting the author to make it good. She’s done a fantastic job thus far.
This book ends in a cliffhanger with a doozy of a revelation that had me saying “say WHAT, now?” I had to reread it twice because I couldn’t believe it. The revelation also has Lyric wondering if she really knew her sister at all.
Unsurprisingly, I need the next book like yesterday. I can’t wait to see what Lyric does next. #TeamLyric Highly recommend!
Lyric is a strong FMC out for revenge after the murder of her sister Alyssa. Actually, strong is an understatement in describing Lyric. She has enrolled in college to get close to Atlas, Keats, Jude and Thayer (her sister’s “best friends”) to find out which of them killed her and exact her revenge on the guilty. To do so, she pays her way into a few of their classes and joins their sister sorority. What Lyric has endured in her life thus far has made her a doubly reinforced tank to any outside influence. Watching her have to pretend these sorority mean girl tactics are actually affecting her is both humorous and tragic for so many reasons. First, she’s too young to have to endured the need to turn off her feelings. Secondly, sororities treating their pledges like they do in this book is disgusting. It’s infuriating to watch Lyric take it knowing what she can do, but it’s understandable as to the necessity of WHY she can’t show her cards now. I am counting down the moments until Lyric serves Paige her just desserts. THAT will be well worth the wait.
Everyone sees Lyric as some naive rich girl who’s weak and can’t protect herself and that’s EXACTLY what she wants them to see. In reality, she’s a trained killer. She can probably incapacitate her entire sorority without messing up her hair or makeup.
She has perfected her mask over the years to survive Sampson, her father and everything involving their business. No one’s ever been able to see through it. No one, until Keats and Atlas. She’s intent on throwing them off and getting closer to them by seducing them. And she’s successful in throwing them off. What she didn’t expect was for them to throw her off too. They both make her feel things she never thought she was capable of feeling. And, for that, I wanted to throat punch them both at the end off this book. I’m eagerly anticipating how Lyric deals with those two specifically in the next book (p.s. if she could low key offer them a second pair of panties so they don’t have to share, I would be beyond elated to see their reactions). However, I’m trusting the author to make it good. She’s done a fantastic job thus far.
This book ends in a cliffhanger with a doozy of a revelation that had me saying “say WHAT, now?” I had to reread it twice because I couldn’t believe it. The revelation also has Lyric wondering if she really knew her sister at all.
Unsurprisingly, I need the next book like yesterday. I can’t wait to see what Lyric does next. #TeamLyric Highly recommend!
August 30, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
My sister's death was ruled an accident, but it was all a lie....They're the kings of Welhurst University, heirs to the most powerful, corrupt, and ruthless families in Ascendence Bay. Each of them is stunningly gorgeous, rich and talented. Nobody is that perfect. All of them hide dark, dangerous secrets. And I'm going to expose them. I'm going to make everyone see exactly who they are. I have skills they would never expect, and I plan on using my talents to make Boys of Ascendence Bay pay in blood for the loss of my sister. I'll do whatever it takes to get them to crack and confess to their crimes. The close I get to finding out which mafia heir is the killer, the more I realize I didn't know my sister as well as I thought. Big ugly secrets come to light that will change my family forever. But what's worse is the enemies I thought I needed to destroy are more complex and tempting than I ever imagined. Can I survive the truth being uncovered or will I be buried by the lies?
This is the story of Lyric. She is on a quest to find out who killed her older sister and the way to do that is to reconnect with her sisters friend group at Welhurst University. The time has come for her to reconnect with them and they just so happen to be four boys from Ascendence Bay who are from richest most powerful and influential families there are in town. Their Mafia Princes and she has to keep them close and at the same time keeps some dark secrets of her own. Atlas, Keats, Thayer and Jude are the boys she needs everything from because she is positive they are the ones that killed her sister Alyssa. One invitation to a frat party and she sees her chance but she never expects Jude is somewhat kind of hostile about her being at the party and this makes her suspicious about how he is behaving. But everything is not at all how it seems. There are so many people and secrets being held and don't let Lyric fool you she has a dark side and many secrets of her own. Her home life is nothing like she makes it seem. This book like I said is full of darkness, secrets and a lot of twists and turns. You do not want to miss this book if you love them darks and twisty and like trying to figure it all out as you read. Good luck I don't think I know what to think besides the fact that I loved this book so very much and can not wait to have Hateful Regret in my hands as soon as possible. This book doesn't disappoint in the least and had me reading as fast as I could.
My sister's death was ruled an accident, but it was all a lie....They're the kings of Welhurst University, heirs to the most powerful, corrupt, and ruthless families in Ascendence Bay. Each of them is stunningly gorgeous, rich and talented. Nobody is that perfect. All of them hide dark, dangerous secrets. And I'm going to expose them. I'm going to make everyone see exactly who they are. I have skills they would never expect, and I plan on using my talents to make Boys of Ascendence Bay pay in blood for the loss of my sister. I'll do whatever it takes to get them to crack and confess to their crimes. The close I get to finding out which mafia heir is the killer, the more I realize I didn't know my sister as well as I thought. Big ugly secrets come to light that will change my family forever. But what's worse is the enemies I thought I needed to destroy are more complex and tempting than I ever imagined. Can I survive the truth being uncovered or will I be buried by the lies?
This is the story of Lyric. She is on a quest to find out who killed her older sister and the way to do that is to reconnect with her sisters friend group at Welhurst University. The time has come for her to reconnect with them and they just so happen to be four boys from Ascendence Bay who are from richest most powerful and influential families there are in town. Their Mafia Princes and she has to keep them close and at the same time keeps some dark secrets of her own. Atlas, Keats, Thayer and Jude are the boys she needs everything from because she is positive they are the ones that killed her sister Alyssa. One invitation to a frat party and she sees her chance but she never expects Jude is somewhat kind of hostile about her being at the party and this makes her suspicious about how he is behaving. But everything is not at all how it seems. There are so many people and secrets being held and don't let Lyric fool you she has a dark side and many secrets of her own. Her home life is nothing like she makes it seem. This book like I said is full of darkness, secrets and a lot of twists and turns. You do not want to miss this book if you love them darks and twisty and like trying to figure it all out as you read. Good luck I don't think I know what to think besides the fact that I loved this book so very much and can not wait to have Hateful Regret in my hands as soon as possible. This book doesn't disappoint in the least and had me reading as fast as I could.
August 17, 2022
4⭐️
I always love a bad b who wants her pound of flesh in vengeance - but my god cliffhangers will quite literally be the fucking death of me (internally screaming)
I have a lot of questions, but considering this is a 5 book series I am actually looking forward to seeing how everything unravels, like…
What in the actual fuck has happened to Lyric growing up under Sampson’s thumb?
What is Alyssa’s big secret?
Why is Jude so angry 24/7 and WHY does he hate Lyric?
What’s the deal with this secret society?
Do you see my dilemma??? All questions, no answers! *sobbing*
I always love a bad b who wants her pound of flesh in vengeance - but my god cliffhangers will quite literally be the fucking death of me (internally screaming)
I have a lot of questions, but considering this is a 5 book series I am actually looking forward to seeing how everything unravels, like…
What in the actual fuck has happened to Lyric growing up under Sampson’s thumb?
What is Alyssa’s big secret?
Why is Jude so angry 24/7 and WHY does he hate Lyric?
What’s the deal with this secret society?
Do you see my dilemma??? All questions, no answers! *sobbing*
December 3, 2022
la verdad me esperaba un cochinero entre todos los protas JAJAJAJ súper altas expectativas, pero nop y eso fue algo que me gustó, que la autora te mantiene en suspenso por saber lo que le pasó a la hermana de lyric, btw... odio a toda su familia... solo sentí más feo y lastima por ella entre más hablaba lo que le hacía pasar su papá y la mano derecha del mismo, ya ni estoy leyendo tanto la saga por el romance, sino por el hecho de saber la venganza que se avecina y la cruda verdad de la muerte de su hermana 🥸
May 12, 2023
4/5⭐️
1/5🌶️
Tropes:
- Why Choose ?
- Enemies to Lovers
- Revenge
- Dark College Romance
Okay first off.. I LOVE THE FMC Lyric. She is a badass and has been through so much and my heart hurts for her but she came a long way and is so strong! I love her.
For the men. I’m liking Atlas and Keats the most. We didn’t get much of Thayer and Jude is an asshole! He is such a prick especially when it came to Lyric. Idk why he hates her so much hopefully we get more information on that in the next book.
I can’t wait to jump into book 2 ☺️
1/5🌶️
Tropes:
- Why Choose ?
- Enemies to Lovers
- Revenge
- Dark College Romance
Okay first off.. I LOVE THE FMC Lyric. She is a badass and has been through so much and my heart hurts for her but she came a long way and is so strong! I love her.
For the men. I’m liking Atlas and Keats the most. We didn’t get much of Thayer and Jude is an asshole! He is such a prick especially when it came to Lyric. Idk why he hates her so much hopefully we get more information on that in the next book.
I can’t wait to jump into book 2 ☺️
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