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Willow Heights Prep Academy: The Envy #1
Dirty Demise
Colt Darling
If the truth sets you free, can you ever be free without it?
I used to have it all.
Football made me popular. Money made me desirable. My name made me a king.
Girls tried to tame me, but I valued my freedom too much to be tied down.
Until I lost it all.
Now I’m a ghost in the halls of Willow Heights Prep Academy. The bullies allow me to speak to one person—my girlfriend, Dixie. When I defied that order, they beat me nearly to death.
I survived, but I lost my memories of the month before the attack. I tell myself it doesn’t matter, but I can’t help feeling like I’m missing something.
Here’s what I know for sure.
Dixie is my girlfriend.
I’m a social leper thanks to the bullies and their queen, Gloria Walton.
And something happened that I can’t remember.
I’m determined to find out the truth, but someone thinks it’s better left forgotten.
Someone who sees my freedom as a threat.
But who can I believe when I can’t even trust my own memory?
If you love damaged bad boys, drama, angst, bullying, and dark content, scroll up and 1-click to start this series today!
Note: This is book 1 in an unconventional bully series. It is not a standalone. It contains material some may find disturbing. 18+ readers only. Please read responsibly.
If the truth sets you free, can you ever be free without it?
I used to have it all.
Football made me popular. Money made me desirable. My name made me a king.
Girls tried to tame me, but I valued my freedom too much to be tied down.
Until I lost it all.
Now I’m a ghost in the halls of Willow Heights Prep Academy. The bullies allow me to speak to one person—my girlfriend, Dixie. When I defied that order, they beat me nearly to death.
I survived, but I lost my memories of the month before the attack. I tell myself it doesn’t matter, but I can’t help feeling like I’m missing something.
Here’s what I know for sure.
Dixie is my girlfriend.
I’m a social leper thanks to the bullies and their queen, Gloria Walton.
And something happened that I can’t remember.
I’m determined to find out the truth, but someone thinks it’s better left forgotten.
Someone who sees my freedom as a threat.
But who can I believe when I can’t even trust my own memory?
If you love damaged bad boys, drama, angst, bullying, and dark content, scroll up and 1-click to start this series today!
Note: This is book 1 in an unconventional bully series. It is not a standalone. It contains material some may find disturbing. 18+ readers only. Please read responsibly.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2023
337 people are currently reading
923 people want to read
About the author
Selena .
42 books1,324 followersYou might not guess it when you pick up your first Selena novel, but Selena is a true romantic. She writes gritty, realistic New Adult contemporary novels with characters you'll love to hate and hate to love.
If reading about teens behaving badly upsets you, steer clear because these are full of drama, angst, fighting, drugs, sex, and rock & roll. There will be times you want to throw your Kindle. There will be lying, cheating, bullying, backstabbing, violence, and hard-earned, sweet redemption for those who won't give up on love. Because life's not always picture perfect, but every heart, no matter how broken and damaged, deserves love.
If reading about teens behaving badly upsets you, steer clear because these are full of drama, angst, fighting, drugs, sex, and rock & roll. There will be times you want to throw your Kindle. There will be lying, cheating, bullying, backstabbing, violence, and hard-earned, sweet redemption for those who won't give up on love. Because life's not always picture perfect, but every heart, no matter how broken and damaged, deserves love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
January 30, 2023
I have never disliked a book character as much as i have this one in a good long while. In that respect Selena definitely accomplished what she set out to do! This is Colt’s book. This is the first book in a trilogy. I first met Colt in Royal and Harpers books. I was intrigued with his character and am so glad this came out. All the characters you come across in this you have met before if you have read any of the Faulknerverse books. I do recommend you at least read Bad Apple and that series first before picking up this one. This book coincides in the timeline with the last book at least of that series.
Now the character I hate. You will find out very quickly when you start to read it who I am talking about. I only wish the worst for this character and hope that they get what they deserve. The last time I felt like this I was reading a book by the twisted sisters, iykyk…. I will be anticipating the next book as I need to know how this all plays out…
COLT BETTER GET HIS MEMORIES BACK!!!
Now the character I hate. You will find out very quickly when you start to read it who I am talking about. I only wish the worst for this character and hope that they get what they deserve. The last time I felt like this I was reading a book by the twisted sisters, iykyk…. I will be anticipating the next book as I need to know how this all plays out…
COLT BETTER GET HIS MEMORIES BACK!!!
August 16, 2023
Dirty Demise is the first book in the Willow Heights Prep Academy:The Envy series.
This is the first book by Selena that I have read and I have to admit it wasn’t what I was expecting, mainly because it says this is the first book in a new series. I know it is not a stand alone as there is more of Colt Darlings story to come, but reading this its obvious there are other books I should have read before this one. I know there are other Willow Heights series, but nowhere I have seen this book advertised was it recommended to read those other books first. If I had known and had more of an understanding of who Colt is, and things he has obviously done before, this would have easily been a five star read for me as I did devour it once I started reading it.
I will say right off, I do not like Dixie, Colt's girlfriend. Where is the love she is meant to have for him? To me she is just obsessed with him and she is so manipulative, conniving and self absorbed. She seems to have very high hopes of what she wants (from having the Darling name).
Instead of helping Colt, and telling him the truth about things she obviously knows about the month he can't remember, she is using his memory loss against him and playing with him and his emotions to get her own way.
Colt is very confused and doesn't know who he can trust. He just wants his memories back for the month prior to his attack. All he knows is that he now has unexpected feelings and an unwanted attraction to Gloria Walton (Lo), but why? They have never liked each other before and she is the girl who belongs to the bullies, who destroyed his life.
For this being a romance book there was actually very little romance involved. There was a bit of flirting between Colt and Lo, and a couple of very short intimate scenes between Colt and Dixie. I want to know who the virgin was that he slept with two years ago as this comes up a few times.
I can’t wait to read the next book and I hope Colt gets his memories back before Dixie can sink her claws in any deeper, especially after reading what she plans for him the next time he blacks out from the pills he takes!!!!!!!
This is the first book by Selena that I have read and I have to admit it wasn’t what I was expecting, mainly because it says this is the first book in a new series. I know it is not a stand alone as there is more of Colt Darlings story to come, but reading this its obvious there are other books I should have read before this one. I know there are other Willow Heights series, but nowhere I have seen this book advertised was it recommended to read those other books first. If I had known and had more of an understanding of who Colt is, and things he has obviously done before, this would have easily been a five star read for me as I did devour it once I started reading it.
I will say right off, I do not like Dixie, Colt's girlfriend. Where is the love she is meant to have for him? To me she is just obsessed with him and she is so manipulative, conniving and self absorbed. She seems to have very high hopes of what she wants (from having the Darling name).
Instead of helping Colt, and telling him the truth about things she obviously knows about the month he can't remember, she is using his memory loss against him and playing with him and his emotions to get her own way.
Colt is very confused and doesn't know who he can trust. He just wants his memories back for the month prior to his attack. All he knows is that he now has unexpected feelings and an unwanted attraction to Gloria Walton (Lo), but why? They have never liked each other before and she is the girl who belongs to the bullies, who destroyed his life.
For this being a romance book there was actually very little romance involved. There was a bit of flirting between Colt and Lo, and a couple of very short intimate scenes between Colt and Dixie. I want to know who the virgin was that he slept with two years ago as this comes up a few times.
I can’t wait to read the next book and I hope Colt gets his memories back before Dixie can sink her claws in any deeper, especially after reading what she plans for him the next time he blacks out from the pills he takes!!!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
Absolutely fantastic and everything I needed for Colt Darling!! So freaking good and right in-line with what I loved about Royal and Harper’s books!!! SO GOOD!!! This is why I love Selena Author writing. She plants these little bombs of knowledge all over without us knowing until it explodes in our face and we are like WHAT?! I love how everything ties together and relates.
You absolutely must read the Elite and Exile series to understand a lot of what is going on.
This book is about Colt/Dixie and Gloria/Rylan (more so Colt and Dixie). There are two parts to this book so just know we don’t get all our answers here. I am not a fan of Dixie’s character, so she really annoys me throughout this book but everything else makes up for it … and all I have to say is KARMA!
It’s a fantastic world that Selena has created, but there are lots of triggers. Lots. I don’t want to give any spoilers away but just know that I flew through this book!!
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
You absolutely must read the Elite and Exile series to understand a lot of what is going on.
This book is about Colt/Dixie and Gloria/Rylan (more so Colt and Dixie). There are two parts to this book so just know we don’t get all our answers here. I am not a fan of Dixie’s character, so she really annoys me throughout this book but everything else makes up for it … and all I have to say is KARMA!
It’s a fantastic world that Selena has created, but there are lots of triggers. Lots. I don’t want to give any spoilers away but just know that I flew through this book!!
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
January 29, 2023
I can’t believe I finished Colt’s first book in less than a day.
I get as absorbed in this amazing Faulkner’s universe that any time I come to the end of these stories I feel lost.
Selena’s writing was addicting as usual and again she left me hanging out for more.
I have to admit it wasn’t at all what I was expecting this to be.
I thought it would have started after what happened at Preston’s party, instead we go back till the moment Royal beat the shit out of him.
Having the opportunity to see his perspective of senior year was really interesting and frustrating at the same time because of Dixie.
Instead of being sincere and help him, telling him the complete truth, she used his problems and his loss of memory to make him do whatever she wanted.
If I disliked her before, now I surely despise her with all my heart. When Royal called her a jackal, he couldn’t have chosen a more accurate term to describe her.
“The messier he gets, the more he needs a constant like me in his life. The more I put up with, the more he owes me. And I’m taking every single bit that I’m owed.”
She’s a self absorbed, manipulating and conniving person, I didn’t feel the love she always brags about, just her obsession to be with him at all costs.
Colt is a lost creature, he wanders through Willow Heights like the ghost of the boy he used to be, with alternating feelings of dread and confusion.
The only sure thing for him is the strong and unexpected attraction he seems to have with Lo.
When he finds himself near her it feels like her smell his familiar and he doesn’t understand it because apparently, he has no reason to feel any kind of connection with the girl who helped his bullies destroy his life.
Our poor Darling boy seems to can’t trust nobody.
Can’t wait for him to have all his memories back.
I get as absorbed in this amazing Faulkner’s universe that any time I come to the end of these stories I feel lost.
Selena’s writing was addicting as usual and again she left me hanging out for more.
I have to admit it wasn’t at all what I was expecting this to be.
I thought it would have started after what happened at Preston’s party, instead we go back till the moment Royal beat the shit out of him.
Having the opportunity to see his perspective of senior year was really interesting and frustrating at the same time because of Dixie.
Instead of being sincere and help him, telling him the complete truth, she used his problems and his loss of memory to make him do whatever she wanted.
If I disliked her before, now I surely despise her with all my heart. When Royal called her a jackal, he couldn’t have chosen a more accurate term to describe her.
“The messier he gets, the more he needs a constant like me in his life. The more I put up with, the more he owes me. And I’m taking every single bit that I’m owed.”
She’s a self absorbed, manipulating and conniving person, I didn’t feel the love she always brags about, just her obsession to be with him at all costs.
Colt is a lost creature, he wanders through Willow Heights like the ghost of the boy he used to be, with alternating feelings of dread and confusion.
The only sure thing for him is the strong and unexpected attraction he seems to have with Lo.
When he finds himself near her it feels like her smell his familiar and he doesn’t understand it because apparently, he has no reason to feel any kind of connection with the girl who helped his bullies destroy his life.
Our poor Darling boy seems to can’t trust nobody.
Can’t wait for him to have all his memories back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2023
This was so good it’s action packed from the get it’s tragic it’s twisted and emotional it’s full of revenge and manipulation just all the drama I love in a bully romance I loved every word of it! Can’t wait for the next book already especially after that ending!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2023
Wow! I was so excited for Colts books to come out and this exceeded my expectations! This new series is a continuation of all of the Willow Heights Prep Academy series.. I suggest reading them all before diving in here. The triggers are dark and the cliffhanger in book will make you scream! Selena always keeps you on your toes.. and this book is no different.
February 3, 2023
The book was great and well written… but I didn’t like the way a certain character was portrayed in this book. I just hope in the second book things will turn for the best because I’m looking forward to reading about this characters happy ending. It’s just not right to view this character as an evil and rotten person, especially when that person was put through hell over the years just to be loved by a certain darling .
February 10, 2023
The Dolce twins are still left to rule the school. And they’ve made sure Colt is still isolated and understands the Darlings are nothing in this town.
Colt Darling was left with brain damage and loss of memories after he was horrifically attacked by the Dolce’s. He can’t remember the last month before the attack and his girlfriend, Dixie is manipulating the entire situation. I literally am fuming days after reading this book. The nerve of this character man…. I understand her insecurities. I understand her desire to rise to the top after being the bottom dog freshman year. I get it. But she’s got zero excuse for her actions. She’s a crap person.
“I owe the Dolce boys a thank you for ensuring that I was the only girl Colt could have for the past two years. If it weren’t for them, who knows how long we would have lasted.”
“I have the one I want. I’ve spent too many years changing him, molding him into the boyfriend I deserve, to throw it all away now that he’s almost on his knees. Once he’s there, I just have to use every weapon in my arsenal, secret and otherwise, to keep him there forever.”
Colt feels like everyone is keeping secrets from him. He’s got a tattoo he has no memory of getting. And he feels like it means something.
The queen bee is an absolute bitch yet - there’s something there. He knows it.
His emotions and obligation to Dixie break my heart. He feels like he owes her everything since she’s stuck by his side.
This author just sucks you in with the story line. I’m obsessed. The Darlings and the Dolces. I only hope the Darlings rise again. And Colt figures out Dixie’s true intentions. Because the last chapter? She’s gone out of her damn mind.
Colt Darling was left with brain damage and loss of memories after he was horrifically attacked by the Dolce’s. He can’t remember the last month before the attack and his girlfriend, Dixie is manipulating the entire situation. I literally am fuming days after reading this book. The nerve of this character man…. I understand her insecurities. I understand her desire to rise to the top after being the bottom dog freshman year. I get it. But she’s got zero excuse for her actions. She’s a crap person.
“I owe the Dolce boys a thank you for ensuring that I was the only girl Colt could have for the past two years. If it weren’t for them, who knows how long we would have lasted.”
“I have the one I want. I’ve spent too many years changing him, molding him into the boyfriend I deserve, to throw it all away now that he’s almost on his knees. Once he’s there, I just have to use every weapon in my arsenal, secret and otherwise, to keep him there forever.”
Colt feels like everyone is keeping secrets from him. He’s got a tattoo he has no memory of getting. And he feels like it means something.
The queen bee is an absolute bitch yet - there’s something there. He knows it.
His emotions and obligation to Dixie break my heart. He feels like he owes her everything since she’s stuck by his side.
This author just sucks you in with the story line. I’m obsessed. The Darlings and the Dolces. I only hope the Darlings rise again. And Colt figures out Dixie’s true intentions. Because the last chapter? She’s gone out of her damn mind.
January 10, 2024
Omg this world will be the end of me!
I have loved Colt from day one. I never cared for Dixie. All of this holds true, only now I want Dixie to go fall off a cliff face first.
I will be the first to say you can’t always help who you fall for, there is a time when you need to become self aware. Dixie’s bitch ass needs to wake up. I felt like she doesn’t love him 1. Like she thinks she does and 2. It feels like she wants revenge on him for never loving her. Is Colt perfect nope, but he’s at least honest and trys to care about her. But he really needs to push her off said cliff. And once all her miss deeds become known I hope Colt and Lo help her with that.
This story run parallel to the Exile series but told from Colt, Dixie and a little from Lo. Everything that happened off page during the Exile we are getting first hand now and im freaking obsessed! #coltandgloriaforeva!
Tropes:
Bully (Female)
Cheating
Dub/Non-Con
Abuse
Addiction
BI Rep
Tattooed Outcast
Amnesia
Spice:
1.5 🌶️ (I don’t count any SA talked about in past tense or off page)
I have loved Colt from day one. I never cared for Dixie. All of this holds true, only now I want Dixie to go fall off a cliff face first.
I will be the first to say you can’t always help who you fall for, there is a time when you need to become self aware. Dixie’s bitch ass needs to wake up. I felt like she doesn’t love him 1. Like she thinks she does and 2. It feels like she wants revenge on him for never loving her. Is Colt perfect nope, but he’s at least honest and trys to care about her. But he really needs to push her off said cliff. And once all her miss deeds become known I hope Colt and Lo help her with that.
This story run parallel to the Exile series but told from Colt, Dixie and a little from Lo. Everything that happened off page during the Exile we are getting first hand now and im freaking obsessed! #coltandgloriaforeva!
Tropes:
Bully (Female)
Cheating
Dub/Non-Con
Abuse
Addiction
BI Rep
Tattooed Outcast
Amnesia
Spice:
1.5 🌶️ (I don’t count any SA talked about in past tense or off page)
February 22, 2023
Colt Darling was a contradiction of a character for me. He had me swinging for loathing him to liking him which is funny because hes not exactly a lovable character. This book overlaps the other Darling and Dolce books before this one so if youve read them then you kind of already know some of the story line.
Dirty Demise picks up with Colt trying to piece together his life with brain damage and a complete months worth of memories gone after a brutal attack on him. As well as being completely ostracized by the entire school all except his girlfriend - Dixie. It was definitely a gripping read with some good plot twists and i few what the hell moments too!! Im looking forward to book 2 now
Dirty Demise picks up with Colt trying to piece together his life with brain damage and a complete months worth of memories gone after a brutal attack on him. As well as being completely ostracized by the entire school all except his girlfriend - Dixie. It was definitely a gripping read with some good plot twists and i few what the hell moments too!! Im looking forward to book 2 now
December 17, 2023
Audiobook performance 5 stars
Story 4 stars
Story 4 stars
February 10, 2023
Whew. Only Selena can make a slow burn a page turner for me. Colt 2.0 is not my brand of H but he still had me in the palm of his hand! I can't wait to see how it all plays out!
I received this as an ARC. My review is my own.
I received this as an ARC. My review is my own.
July 28, 2023
Ok…so I’m just gonna say it. I REALLY dislike Dixie. To be honest, I’ve NEVER liked her character. I hope she gets hers. However, I have literally been flying through these books because they are SO SO good. I love this universe of characters that Selena has woven.
I must highly recommend not to read ANY of the Faulknerverse books as standalones. All the stories interweave really and you won’t understand a LOT if you skip any. Just start with Bully Me (Devlin & Crystals story) and keep on truckin’.
I’m SOOOOO looking forward to Nov. 1st. to continue Colts story. On a side note.. I absolutely NEED to see that sociopath Baron get what’s coming to him. Duke needs to pay too…but maybe not quite as bad as Baron, (I.E. Duke and Colt..what’s going on there exactly??. You’ll understand what I mean when you read this one). There’s a lot of torture in these books, so I hope none is spared when it comes to the Demon twins.
I don’t know WHAT psychological trauma these two have endured to make them the way they are…BUT SURELY it’s not ONLY what they witnessed an uncle doing when they were children. Because in the grand scheme of things, NOTHING these boys have done as teenagers should stem from something as “tame” as what they saw. They’ve done things 1000 % worse worse worse.
PLEASE STORY GODS…Karma needs to visit Baron & Duke.
I’d like to see a swamp in their future. (Just read all previous books and you’ll get my meaning).
I must highly recommend not to read ANY of the Faulknerverse books as standalones. All the stories interweave really and you won’t understand a LOT if you skip any. Just start with Bully Me (Devlin & Crystals story) and keep on truckin’.
I’m SOOOOO looking forward to Nov. 1st. to continue Colts story. On a side note.. I absolutely NEED to see that sociopath Baron get what’s coming to him. Duke needs to pay too…but maybe not quite as bad as Baron, (I.E. Duke and Colt..what’s going on there exactly??. You’ll understand what I mean when you read this one). There’s a lot of torture in these books, so I hope none is spared when it comes to the Demon twins.
I don’t know WHAT psychological trauma these two have endured to make them the way they are…BUT SURELY it’s not ONLY what they witnessed an uncle doing when they were children. Because in the grand scheme of things, NOTHING these boys have done as teenagers should stem from something as “tame” as what they saw. They’ve done things 1000 % worse worse worse.
PLEASE STORY GODS…Karma needs to visit Baron & Duke.
I’d like to see a swamp in their future. (Just read all previous books and you’ll get my meaning).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2023
⭐️: 5/5
🌶: 2/5
Dirty Demise is book 1 of The Envy and is part of the Willow Heights Prep Academy Series. This book ends in a cliffhanger and is not a standalone.
I was first introduced to Colt and Dixie in Bully Me (Book 1 of Crystal & Devlin's story). Colt went from one of the kings at WHPA to the social pariah. His journey throughout the series was devastating. I wanted him to regain his memories that he lost just as much as he wanted to.
There was one scene that surprised me in the book and it was 🥵🥵🥵. It was very unexpected because I didn't get that feeling with Colt from previous books. I wish there was more interaction between Colt and this other person.
Dixie - I got nothing nice to say about her. I am hoping she is redeemable in the second book. We shall see! Honestly, I kept dreading her POV. She is the only second FMC that I did not like and I have read quite a lot of books.
I am looking forward to more of Gloria's POV.
🌶: 2/5
Dirty Demise is book 1 of The Envy and is part of the Willow Heights Prep Academy Series. This book ends in a cliffhanger and is not a standalone.
I was first introduced to Colt and Dixie in Bully Me (Book 1 of Crystal & Devlin's story). Colt went from one of the kings at WHPA to the social pariah. His journey throughout the series was devastating. I wanted him to regain his memories that he lost just as much as he wanted to.
There was one scene that surprised me in the book and it was 🥵🥵🥵. It was very unexpected because I didn't get that feeling with Colt from previous books. I wish there was more interaction between Colt and this other person.
Dixie - I got nothing nice to say about her. I am hoping she is redeemable in the second book. We shall see! Honestly, I kept dreading her POV. She is the only second FMC that I did not like and I have read quite a lot of books.
I am looking forward to more of Gloria's POV.
December 10, 2023
2.75/5 stars
first i just want to very strongly recommend reading the previous series before starting this one (specifically WHPA the elite then WHPA the exile) to get a better understanding of the main characters in this book. i recommend reading dangerous defiance between the elite (trilogy) and exile series, and then WPHA the endgame (duet) after finishing WHPA exile, but it’s not as important for these MCs imo. i’ve been going through them crazy fast so it’s all fresh in my mind but i don’t think i’d enjoy reading this if i only started here since there isn’t much romance as of yet.
i saw dixie’s character assassination coming from the exile books but it really got ramped up here - coming from the WHPA elite trilogy i would never have expected for dixie to make COLT look good in comparison! she’s vindictive and manipulative and seems to be so bitter about girls she pretended were her best friends for like 5 books. i hate disliking the FMC in dark romance because it feels so hypocritical but she seems to be completely one track minded in her psychotic agenda and i wanna throttle her neck every time i get to her POV. i’m starting to forget how horrible he used to be and that’s impressive. there is some dark content so i would recommend checking the TWs too but so far (i don’t think) it’s as dark as some of the other series. like i said before there isn’t much romance right now but i’m invested enough in the characters that i personally don’t care much, plus i know it’ll be more of a romance in the next books. i like a slow burn though so i don’t know if this is for everyone.
the book is set around the same timeline as the last book in the exile series so it was pretty fun to see more of my fav characters and see things from colt’s point of view around that time since he wasn’t around so much. i liked the writing but it doesn’t feel as polished as some of her other books so i felt a little let down. there was a couple of spelling/grammar errors but it wasn’t bad enough to put me off or take me out of the story. i kept waiting for the timeline to catch up to when crystal had been found since it was so satisfying but i’m assuming that’ll be in the next instalment!
first i just want to very strongly recommend reading the previous series before starting this one (specifically WHPA the elite then WHPA the exile) to get a better understanding of the main characters in this book. i recommend reading dangerous defiance between the elite (trilogy) and exile series, and then WPHA the endgame (duet) after finishing WHPA exile, but it’s not as important for these MCs imo. i’ve been going through them crazy fast so it’s all fresh in my mind but i don’t think i’d enjoy reading this if i only started here since there isn’t much romance as of yet.
i saw dixie’s character assassination coming from the exile books but it really got ramped up here - coming from the WHPA elite trilogy i would never have expected for dixie to make COLT look good in comparison! she’s vindictive and manipulative and seems to be so bitter about girls she pretended were her best friends for like 5 books. i hate disliking the FMC in dark romance because it feels so hypocritical but she seems to be completely one track minded in her psychotic agenda and i wanna throttle her neck every time i get to her POV. i’m starting to forget how horrible he used to be and that’s impressive. there is some dark content so i would recommend checking the TWs too but so far (i don’t think) it’s as dark as some of the other series. like i said before there isn’t much romance right now but i’m invested enough in the characters that i personally don’t care much, plus i know it’ll be more of a romance in the next books. i like a slow burn though so i don’t know if this is for everyone.
the book is set around the same timeline as the last book in the exile series so it was pretty fun to see more of my fav characters and see things from colt’s point of view around that time since he wasn’t around so much. i liked the writing but it doesn’t feel as polished as some of her other books so i felt a little let down. there was a couple of spelling/grammar errors but it wasn’t bad enough to put me off or take me out of the story. i kept waiting for the timeline to catch up to when crystal had been found since it was so satisfying but i’m assuming that’ll be in the next instalment!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
Refinements of viciouness....
Dirty Demise is part one in Selenas's new installment in the Willow Heights Pep Academy, The Envy, this time telling Colt Darling' story. I would suggest reading the previous accounts relating to WHPA for a better comprehension of the background, bachstories, architecture of liasons, relationships, events and dynamics of the participants.
I am a fairly new reader and fan of Selena's work and have a good idea of the Faulkner World, understanding the importance of what happened before we get to this moment, but having not read it myself, I got lost at times, but that was not enough to prevent me for enjoying this tale absolutely and completely.
The narrative flows steady and direct to the furiousness of the revelations and the secrets that keep the story untold. Intertwining past and present where it matters, we get a clear and vicarious feeling of the protagonists' internal turmoil, conflicts and thoughts without the monotony of passive speech, rather, they are colored by the exchanges and the words of testomony.
Everybody is lying somehow, ones to protect, others to attack and Colt to alleviate the madgirl's madness, something under the guise of love and devotion.
Dixie is eomething else and not in a good way. The plan is, for lack of more sympathetic words, machiavelic to a great extent. I would understand and paradoxically relent if it was for Colt's love and himself, but no, just for what he could offer to Dixie in her disturbed image of success. I'll give the author pops for creating a, for now, villain who's so vicious in her malice.
Some characters had showed a disliking for her and I can't wait to hear their reasonings.
For now, we know that a very distinguished hatter is a concealed sympathizer, the snake keeps manipulating accordingly and Colt is running against time, without even realizing.
I'm seriously hopping Karma kicks back hard and unappologetically!
February 20, 2023
Holy hell what a ride! Needless to say if you’re a fan of Selena’s work then you are definitely prepared for her latest crazy, demented ride into the Dolce/Darling feud with Dirty Demise, the first book in the Willow Heights Prep Academy: The Envy Series. If you’re a fan of dark high school bully romances then go ahead and dive in to this one—just be sure to check the triggers because if you know Selena it’s going to be one dark, twisted hell of a ride! And while technically this is the story of a new series, you definitely want to get the back story to these characters and delve into their past so definitely give reading the Elite and Exile series a read first if you haven’t already!
This is the story of Colt and dang is it hard seeing how far he’s fallen and all that he’s having to endure because of past choices and the ongoing feud between two families that never want to give any ground to the other. I loved being able to finally have some answers and taps filled in as we see the precious story and this one come together from several key POVs. Will you get all your answers? No (twins I’m looking at you guys!) but definitely enough to keep you on the edge of your seat enthralled with this series! And in true Selena fashion, don’t be surprised to hate characters you once liked or love characters you once hated because Selena is the queen of creating twisted characters you can’t help but love. And dang it if the chemistry between Gloria and Colt isnt pure fire!!! And the hinted at chemistry between some other world known (and possibly hated lol) characters? I can’t wait! And finally what can h say about good ole Dixie? Let’s just say you NEED to read this story asap ti see for yourself!!!
And yikes—what about that ending?!? The second book needs to come soon!
This is the story of Colt and dang is it hard seeing how far he’s fallen and all that he’s having to endure because of past choices and the ongoing feud between two families that never want to give any ground to the other. I loved being able to finally have some answers and taps filled in as we see the precious story and this one come together from several key POVs. Will you get all your answers? No (twins I’m looking at you guys!) but definitely enough to keep you on the edge of your seat enthralled with this series! And in true Selena fashion, don’t be surprised to hate characters you once liked or love characters you once hated because Selena is the queen of creating twisted characters you can’t help but love. And dang it if the chemistry between Gloria and Colt isnt pure fire!!! And the hinted at chemistry between some other world known (and possibly hated lol) characters? I can’t wait! And finally what can h say about good ole Dixie? Let’s just say you NEED to read this story asap ti see for yourself!!!
And yikes—what about that ending?!? The second book needs to come soon!
February 7, 2023
I am so excited for this book and the second book. I love this whole world that Selena has put together. If you have not read any of Selena's dark bully romances, you need to. She is phenomenal and will not disappoint.
Let me start off by saying that I do not like Dixie. I knew in the other series that I did not like her at all but this book has answered so many questions for me and just further confirmed that I do not like her period. She is conniving, sneaky, selfish, fame obsessed, and all around a horrible person. I thought the mean girls of the school were bad people, well I now believe they have nothing on Dixie. She is a mean girl through and through.
First off, Colt is such a sweet boy deep down. He has had a lot happen to him that has messed him up but honestly he is just a lost boy who needs that one girl to find him. I definitely do not believe that girl to be Dixie but we will see in the second book. Now don't get me wrong, he has done a lot of bad things as well. I mean he is the bad boy player that was all about having a good time. His personality will draw you in and make you fall for him.
This book will answer so many questions you may have from the other series while also coming up with more questions to be answered, hopefully, in the next book. I am so curious to see if Colt will get his memories back and if so what will happen with him and Dixie and then him and Gloria. If you have not read any of the series from this world, you need to like yesterday. Selena .
Let me start off by saying that I do not like Dixie. I knew in the other series that I did not like her at all but this book has answered so many questions for me and just further confirmed that I do not like her period. She is conniving, sneaky, selfish, fame obsessed, and all around a horrible person. I thought the mean girls of the school were bad people, well I now believe they have nothing on Dixie. She is a mean girl through and through.
First off, Colt is such a sweet boy deep down. He has had a lot happen to him that has messed him up but honestly he is just a lost boy who needs that one girl to find him. I definitely do not believe that girl to be Dixie but we will see in the second book. Now don't get me wrong, he has done a lot of bad things as well. I mean he is the bad boy player that was all about having a good time. His personality will draw you in and make you fall for him.
This book will answer so many questions you may have from the other series while also coming up with more questions to be answered, hopefully, in the next book. I am so curious to see if Colt will get his memories back and if so what will happen with him and Dixie and then him and Gloria. If you have not read any of the series from this world, you need to like yesterday. Selena .
April 9, 2025
4 estrellas (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️).girl, wtf!!!
Ay como odio a la asquerosa tipa copycat, la mosca muerta que con sus “poderes” de Paty Chapoy piensa que es popular, cuando lo único que es es una CHISMOSA, HDP QUE DA ASCO!! (Me recuerda a Felicitas/Celina de Rebelde Way/Rebelde), son el mismo mojón de personaje.
Colt me cayó pues bien, I mean, me daba pena su situación y pobre, no podía dejar de imaginármelo como cyborg 😭. Gloria, la quiero abrazar, ay nadie en este libro la entiende 😔, es día del llanto.
No saben cuánto coraje hice con este libro, voy a leer el siguiente porque quiero ver el downfall de la Paty Chapoy. Pero me daré un tiempo porque siento que quiero sacar la bilis del coraje con la kk que le dieron voz y voto en el libro (cada que salía su asqueroso nombre yo estaba como el audio de tiktok que dice: aggh! yes robert, what do you want now? 🙄 Ojalá ya la funen y la doxeen y la vayan a perseguir con trinches y antorchas y luego la quemen con leña verde, mientras yo me rio en primera fila.
Igual creo que tuve que haber leído unos libros antes de la autora porque andaba en plan: 😵💫 (perdida), con tanto personaje e historia pasada. Creo que ya le voy teniendo idea, pero sigo medio perdida haha.
Ah! Y odio a los Dolce boys que de dulces no tienen nada, capaz y la autora les puso ese apellido para que fuesen cancelados como los Dolce & Gabbana 😂🫵🏻. Igual, ellos ya deben de ir presos y darles pena de muerte, me dan asco, son unos simios y los odio mucho. WAKALA TODOS LOS DOLCE DE KK.
Ay como odio a la asquerosa tipa copycat, la mosca muerta que con sus “poderes” de Paty Chapoy piensa que es popular, cuando lo único que es es una CHISMOSA, HDP QUE DA ASCO!! (Me recuerda a Felicitas/Celina de Rebelde Way/Rebelde), son el mismo mojón de personaje.
Colt me cayó pues bien, I mean, me daba pena su situación y pobre, no podía dejar de imaginármelo como cyborg 😭. Gloria, la quiero abrazar, ay nadie en este libro la entiende 😔, es día del llanto.
No saben cuánto coraje hice con este libro, voy a leer el siguiente porque quiero ver el downfall de la Paty Chapoy. Pero me daré un tiempo porque siento que quiero sacar la bilis del coraje con la kk que le dieron voz y voto en el libro (cada que salía su asqueroso nombre yo estaba como el audio de tiktok que dice: aggh! yes robert, what do you want now? 🙄 Ojalá ya la funen y la doxeen y la vayan a perseguir con trinches y antorchas y luego la quemen con leña verde, mientras yo me rio en primera fila.
Igual creo que tuve que haber leído unos libros antes de la autora porque andaba en plan: 😵💫 (perdida), con tanto personaje e historia pasada. Creo que ya le voy teniendo idea, pero sigo medio perdida haha.
Ah! Y odio a los Dolce boys que de dulces no tienen nada, capaz y la autora les puso ese apellido para que fuesen cancelados como los Dolce & Gabbana 😂🫵🏻. Igual, ellos ya deben de ir presos y darles pena de muerte, me dan asco, son unos simios y los odio mucho. WAKALA TODOS LOS DOLCE DE KK.
April 4, 2023
This wild crazy town!!
The thing I have loved about this whole Faulkner series is how unhinged all these characters are and how well Selena writes them. The first series with Devlin and Crystal set up such a great foundation for this feud. You initially set your dislike to certain characters but then as the series continues your feelings change and more things come to light and skew your initial thoughts. Royal and Harpers storyline really encompasses the majority of what the remaining books touch on. You get a peek into all the background happenings and in doing so learn more and more about the characters. I used to feel sorry for Dixie in the first series and then she was just kind of fake and now with this book I CANT STAND HER!! I know this the reaction Selena was going for and bravo on achieving it bc I found myself silently cruising her and yelling at Colt to just leave her evil ass. Oh Colt, I just want to hug you. This ends on a cliffhanger and the next book isn’t out until much much later 😫 The narration was amazing with Michelle and Teddy. Michelle does a great southern accent without it seeming twangy or too fake and portrays Dixie so well. She has a way of emphasizing that twisted annoying pettiness of Dixie while still bringing the other characters to light. Teddy is just fabulous as Colt and really portrays his lightheartedness perfectly. I can’t wait for the next book even though I’m going to have to, why did I enjoy this so soon?!?
The thing I have loved about this whole Faulkner series is how unhinged all these characters are and how well Selena writes them. The first series with Devlin and Crystal set up such a great foundation for this feud. You initially set your dislike to certain characters but then as the series continues your feelings change and more things come to light and skew your initial thoughts. Royal and Harpers storyline really encompasses the majority of what the remaining books touch on. You get a peek into all the background happenings and in doing so learn more and more about the characters. I used to feel sorry for Dixie in the first series and then she was just kind of fake and now with this book I CANT STAND HER!! I know this the reaction Selena was going for and bravo on achieving it bc I found myself silently cruising her and yelling at Colt to just leave her evil ass. Oh Colt, I just want to hug you. This ends on a cliffhanger and the next book isn’t out until much much later 😫 The narration was amazing with Michelle and Teddy. Michelle does a great southern accent without it seeming twangy or too fake and portrays Dixie so well. She has a way of emphasizing that twisted annoying pettiness of Dixie while still bringing the other characters to light. Teddy is just fabulous as Colt and really portrays his lightheartedness perfectly. I can’t wait for the next book even though I’m going to have to, why did I enjoy this so soon?!?
February 2, 2023
Different but good
This installment of Selena’s Faulkner universe, didn’t hit like the other books. I don’t mean that in a bad way, it was simply different in the sense that it wasn’t the usual dark and depraved kinky piece. Instead, it spoke more on manipulation, envy and persuasion.
The book was dark, just a conniving and underhanded type of bleakness.
Instead of having a hot-and-heavy couple I was used to reading from Selena, it was more of a hidden snake waiting to slither up around Colt and choke the life out of him, but yet still let him live. There was a definite power play in the story, a puppeteer controlling her puppet.
Besides the main “couple”, there are moments where you see how the other books were written, this one the missing piece to those. A few scenes that you get to experience in a whole new perspective and realize what really happened.
I honestly did enjoy this one just as much as the others, because it opened my eyes to what I missed before. It was like all the doors finally opened and I got to see inside Dixie and Colt’s minds, and even a peak of Gloria’s too.
I will say that the ending left me reeling, as I wasn’t expecting it to END. I can’t wait for the next book (like always)
This installment of Selena’s Faulkner universe, didn’t hit like the other books. I don’t mean that in a bad way, it was simply different in the sense that it wasn’t the usual dark and depraved kinky piece. Instead, it spoke more on manipulation, envy and persuasion.
The book was dark, just a conniving and underhanded type of bleakness.
Instead of having a hot-and-heavy couple I was used to reading from Selena, it was more of a hidden snake waiting to slither up around Colt and choke the life out of him, but yet still let him live. There was a definite power play in the story, a puppeteer controlling her puppet.
Besides the main “couple”, there are moments where you see how the other books were written, this one the missing piece to those. A few scenes that you get to experience in a whole new perspective and realize what really happened.
I honestly did enjoy this one just as much as the others, because it opened my eyes to what I missed before. It was like all the doors finally opened and I got to see inside Dixie and Colt’s minds, and even a peak of Gloria’s too.
I will say that the ending left me reeling, as I wasn’t expecting it to END. I can’t wait for the next book (like always)
November 29, 2023
Dirty Demise by Selena was such a crazy, exciting, spicy, and suspenseful book. I love Selena's writing style; she is gritty, doesn't hold back, and captivates me with her words. I was on the edge of my seat, waiting for the other shoe to drop all through this book. I love the world she created for these characters. It is deliciously dark, heartbreaking, and eye-opening to see the other sides of characters from her other books stories. This book is a dark romance that touches on dark topics and themes. Be prepared to laugh and cry throughout this book. I thought this book had an original storyline with beautifully written vivid detail. The characters are complex with compelling backgrounds. This book is the first book in the Willow Heights Prep: The Envy series.
Dixie, Oh Dixie, I loved her in the Willow Heights Prep: The Elite series, but now I know what I know. She's a lot of things that make me not like her anymore. She knows what she wants and will do anything to get it. Colt was intense and just surviving what life had thrown at him. He was loyal to his family and went through so much in the Exile series. I loved reading his story so much. He was such a teddy bear. I am so excited to see what happens with the next book, Evil Deeds.
Dixie, Oh Dixie, I loved her in the Willow Heights Prep: The Elite series, but now I know what I know. She's a lot of things that make me not like her anymore. She knows what she wants and will do anything to get it. Colt was intense and just surviving what life had thrown at him. He was loyal to his family and went through so much in the Exile series. I loved reading his story so much. He was such a teddy bear. I am so excited to see what happens with the next book, Evil Deeds.
February 4, 2023
Dirty Demise is the first book in a trilogy, but I recommend reading the other books in the Willow Heights Prep Academy series as it all ties in. This is Colt's story with chapters from Dixie and one from Gloria.
I have been looking forward to Colt's book and even though it's set in the same Willow Heights Prep Academy series it's quite different. It's a slow burner so it isn't as full on as the other books. Don't get me wrong, it's still dark but it's a slyness type of dark with betrayal, secrets and manipulation thrown in. I really enjoy Selena's writing. I love how she wrote Colt's character, I wasvintrigued by him since back in the Bully Me book. I wasn't a big fan of Dixie's and this book hasn't changed that opinion if anything it's made me dislike Dixie more. I enjoyed the interaction between Colt and Gloria and that tattoo shop scene wow hopefully there is more of that to come. I can't wait to see what happens next. Here's hoping it's soon after that ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have been looking forward to Colt's book and even though it's set in the same Willow Heights Prep Academy series it's quite different. It's a slow burner so it isn't as full on as the other books. Don't get me wrong, it's still dark but it's a slyness type of dark with betrayal, secrets and manipulation thrown in. I really enjoy Selena's writing. I love how she wrote Colt's character, I wasvintrigued by him since back in the Bully Me book. I wasn't a big fan of Dixie's and this book hasn't changed that opinion if anything it's made me dislike Dixie more. I enjoyed the interaction between Colt and Gloria and that tattoo shop scene wow hopefully there is more of that to come. I can't wait to see what happens next. Here's hoping it's soon after that ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2023
I think Colt is hands down one of my favourites. I'm so glad we got his story. This book is both Colt and Dixies POV's.
Colt got very badly beaten from the Dolces, nearly died and lost a month of memories which he is trying to piece back together. Considering he is now the social outcast, thanks to the Dolces, it is very hard as no one will speak to him. Apart from the one person he is allowed to speak to, his girlfriend Dixie. Can she be trusted, after all she is the school gossip or is she hiding something? This book shows her true colours.
Oh how the mighty have fallen. Colt was once one of the Kings at school, where the Dolces now are. Some may say he's getting a taste of his own medicine. Colt is my weak link, I really am rooting for him. You really do see a different side of him in this book. Who's team are you on? (IYKYK! 🤭) I'm sticking with the team I've been on alllllll along 🤞🏻
Another brilliant installment in this world and I honestly can't wait for the next book! 🖤
Colt got very badly beaten from the Dolces, nearly died and lost a month of memories which he is trying to piece back together. Considering he is now the social outcast, thanks to the Dolces, it is very hard as no one will speak to him. Apart from the one person he is allowed to speak to, his girlfriend Dixie. Can she be trusted, after all she is the school gossip or is she hiding something? This book shows her true colours.
Oh how the mighty have fallen. Colt was once one of the Kings at school, where the Dolces now are. Some may say he's getting a taste of his own medicine. Colt is my weak link, I really am rooting for him. You really do see a different side of him in this book. Who's team are you on? (IYKYK! 🤭) I'm sticking with the team I've been on alllllll along 🤞🏻
Another brilliant installment in this world and I honestly can't wait for the next book! 🖤
February 5, 2023
Book 1 in Selena's Willow Heights Prep Academy: The Envy - a spin off series and oh, how I've waited for Colt's story. First let me just start by saying that Selena does dark, high school, bully romance like no other. I want to be repelled and outraged by the actions of her characters (and I am) but I'm also just as enthralled and captivated by them too. I honestly don't know how she does it but I'm so glad she does and I can escape into this world. If you haven't already I highly recommend reading all of the Willow Heights Prep Academy series as the characters in this book are ones we've met before in the series prior. Selena out does in this book and I am left speechless on the cliffhanger that I'm left on until the next book comes out....
I received a free copy of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2023
I really like this author's books, but I was a little disappointed with this one. Almost nothing happened in the book. It was 200 pages so I'm not entirely sure why this had to be split into two parts, especially when not much went on. The timeframe overlaps with previous books in the series so maybe that's why I feel that way. I just know that I was left a little unimpressed and slightly irritated when it was over.
You mainly just learn about how much of a conniving bitch Dixie truly is (fuck her, for real), and that something went on between Colt and Lo right before his head injury. But of course we still don't know what that something is.
It's one thing for a story to be broken up into a series because it's too big or packed full of events that couldn't possibly be told in one book... But this is not that book.
Now we play the waiting game for 7 months for part 2.
You mainly just learn about how much of a conniving bitch Dixie truly is (fuck her, for real), and that something went on between Colt and Lo right before his head injury. But of course we still don't know what that something is.
It's one thing for a story to be broken up into a series because it's too big or packed full of events that couldn't possibly be told in one book... But this is not that book.
Now we play the waiting game for 7 months for part 2.
May 5, 2025
I’m hooked!!!!🔥🔥🔥😍😍🥵🥵
This is my first Selena book and I AM HOOKED!!!!!! First off, this is nothing like I expected, but SO much better! Talk about a dark, twisted bully romance! My freaking favorite! The topics are so intense and literally I felt like I was on pins and needles through the entire thing, not a normal high school bully trope. The spice was there, but nothing that overshadowed the story! It blended together beautifully for spice/plot ratio! There were times I could feel myself becoming increasingly uncomfortable with what the MMC was experiencing and my heart felt for him. I spent time living and hating certain characters and I can’t wait to dive into the next! Love a good cliff hanger! I did have the audiobook as well as the ebook and let’s just say that narrators absolutely made this!!!! It was FANTASTIC !
This is my first Selena book and I AM HOOKED!!!!!! First off, this is nothing like I expected, but SO much better! Talk about a dark, twisted bully romance! My freaking favorite! The topics are so intense and literally I felt like I was on pins and needles through the entire thing, not a normal high school bully trope. The spice was there, but nothing that overshadowed the story! It blended together beautifully for spice/plot ratio! There were times I could feel myself becoming increasingly uncomfortable with what the MMC was experiencing and my heart felt for him. I spent time living and hating certain characters and I can’t wait to dive into the next! Love a good cliff hanger! I did have the audiobook as well as the ebook and let’s just say that narrators absolutely made this!!!! It was FANTASTIC !
January 31, 2023
Colts book has finally arrived - and it’s full of twist, back stabbing, and plot twist. Just when you think you have it all figured out, you don’t!
It’s the best feeling to be back in the Faulkner world! You get a glimpse of the whole gang again which includes… Royal, Harper, the Twins, Lo, and Preston. Some just little snippets or another POV of things that have already happened!
Don’t expect spice in here — bc it’s def not the spiciest of Selena’s books. It’s plot heavy and why wouldn’t expect that with Colt going through what he did! But lemme tell you… the tattoo parlor, ummm that was unexpected 👀
Enjoy the first book of Colt’s story!! Can’t wait for book2!!!
It’s the best feeling to be back in the Faulkner world! You get a glimpse of the whole gang again which includes… Royal, Harper, the Twins, Lo, and Preston. Some just little snippets or another POV of things that have already happened!
Don’t expect spice in here — bc it’s def not the spiciest of Selena’s books. It’s plot heavy and why wouldn’t expect that with Colt going through what he did! But lemme tell you… the tattoo parlor, ummm that was unexpected 👀
Enjoy the first book of Colt’s story!! Can’t wait for book2!!!
February 3, 2023
Team Colt ALL THE WAY!! I love Selena's Faulknerverse and each book she brings more richness, more story, more lore, more lust, more drama, more everything!! I certainly suggest going back to the beginning of the stories (Bully Me) and read in the suggested order because this series is something else all together!! Colt has been one of my favorite characters from the beginning, so seeing his story play out, getting his perspective, has been amazing!! It makes me want to go back and read them all over again, which I may just do!
I didn't think it was possible for me to dislike certain characters as much as I do, I was distrustful of Dixie before, even more so now!
READ THESE BOOKS!!!
I didn't think it was possible for me to dislike certain characters as much as I do, I was distrustful of Dixie before, even more so now!
READ THESE BOOKS!!!
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