What do you think?
Rate this book
Cruel Education: Ravenwood Academy Series
I was fifteen when I intentionally killed three men, and that was the reason why I was here.
Every crime needs a punishment.
For Isabella, that punishment included attending the prestigious Ravenwood Academy, a school for the sons and daughters of the most notorious killers in history.
The students are cruel. The teachers are heartless.
All she has to do is get through her next three years there without any hassle and then she is free.
But then he sees her.
And what he wants, he gets.
With secrets floating in the air, Isabella must learn new skills while trying to survive a school of heathens.
Is there anyone she can truly trust?
Every crime needs a punishment.
For Isabella, that punishment included attending the prestigious Ravenwood Academy, a school for the sons and daughters of the most notorious killers in history.
The students are cruel. The teachers are heartless.
All she has to do is get through her next three years there without any hassle and then she is free.
But then he sees her.
And what he wants, he gets.
With secrets floating in the air, Isabella must learn new skills while trying to survive a school of heathens.
Is there anyone she can truly trust?
422 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 26, 2022
24 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
August 26, 2022
I love a good debut novel and am so glad I stumbled upon N. Dennis's video on TikTok looking for ARC readers because this book did not disappoint. While it has the academy theme to it the type of academy this is was different for me. Probably because I tend to not read that type of book or age group. To say I was hooked immediately is an understatement.
This story revolves around Isabella who has no choice but to attend the Ravenwood Academy or be sent to prison....so the academy it is. She quickly befriends her roommate, Maddy, and meets Maddy's brother and three cousins her first night there. They are not your typical young men, but of course they aren't because they are at Ravenwood. Much too quickly Isabella finds herself in a tight situation and proves herself to the four boys...but most importantly Tommy. He stakes his claim on her immediately which only infuriates Isabella.
Soon she is learning who exactly the Kray boys (and family) are and becomes mostly comfortable with the claiming....except where Tommy is concerned. These two definitely give off enemies to lovers vibes and the tension between them is exquisite. They are in this constant dance with each other waiting to see who will make the next move. Just as the pieces of Isabella's new life seem to be falling into place a complete 180 happens and all that she thought she knew....she didn't!
The character and plot development in this story are amazing. It flows so smoothly and has the readers so absorbed they cannot put it down. I am so intrigued by the other Kray boys (Callum, Archie, and Felix) and cannot wait to get more on them but most importantly....I need more Tommy. By the end of the book I was more drawn to him than I expected to be.
If you are looking to check out a new author or a debut novel this is the one. Make sure to check your trigger warnings. Now....to sit and wait for the next book!
This story revolves around Isabella who has no choice but to attend the Ravenwood Academy or be sent to prison....so the academy it is. She quickly befriends her roommate, Maddy, and meets Maddy's brother and three cousins her first night there. They are not your typical young men, but of course they aren't because they are at Ravenwood. Much too quickly Isabella finds herself in a tight situation and proves herself to the four boys...but most importantly Tommy. He stakes his claim on her immediately which only infuriates Isabella.
Soon she is learning who exactly the Kray boys (and family) are and becomes mostly comfortable with the claiming....except where Tommy is concerned. These two definitely give off enemies to lovers vibes and the tension between them is exquisite. They are in this constant dance with each other waiting to see who will make the next move. Just as the pieces of Isabella's new life seem to be falling into place a complete 180 happens and all that she thought she knew....she didn't!
The character and plot development in this story are amazing. It flows so smoothly and has the readers so absorbed they cannot put it down. I am so intrigued by the other Kray boys (Callum, Archie, and Felix) and cannot wait to get more on them but most importantly....I need more Tommy. By the end of the book I was more drawn to him than I expected to be.
If you are looking to check out a new author or a debut novel this is the one. Make sure to check your trigger warnings. Now....to sit and wait for the next book!
August 8, 2022
*I received an Advanced Reader Copy of Cruel Education in exchange for my honest review*
*May contain Spoilers*
Let me first start off by saying that I believe this is the first book from Nicole Dennis and I have to say that it was a huge success with me.
Cruel Education is a story centered around Isabella, who was sent to Ravenwood Academy after she murdered 3 men after they murdered her family. Isabella was given the choice to attend Ravenwood Academy to hone her skills and become a trained killer or go to prison. Obviously we know which one she chose otherwise this would be a very short review.
Now keep in mind this is a dark, mafia-esque story romance with more mature themes and therefore all of the characters are over the age of 18 and Ravenwood Academy is essentially college for our characters.
Isabella, Bella, is roomed with Maddy who is sister to Callum and is very attached to Bella from the start. Maddy and Callum's cousins Felix, Archie, and Tommy also attend the academy and surprise all the cousins and their family is in the Mafia. The story continues on when on the first night the boys kidnap Bella and plan to torture her to see if she will break. Instead she escapes them and steals their car to run away. When driving away, Bella has a thought that she shouldn't run from these guys because it was a sign of weakness and ultimately goes back and leaves them there thus leading to our first huge moment in the story where Tommy "claims" Bella and we as the reader in Bella's POV have to figure out what "Claimed" means and why Tommy chose her.
As the story evolves Tommy has basically taken any choices away from Bella and is very controlling (but come on we love a man who is controlling in stories just not in real life) and between the rules and the treatment Bella gets from Tommy she is fed up with everything and wants to make his life as hard as he has made hers. There is a massive connection and attraction between Tommy and Bella and as the reader you are reaching and hoping for it and keep wondering when are they going to give in. It is a definite slow burn and in a very nicely done way when they do collide. Part of the Mafia rules is the men are allowed to choose their wife but can end an engagement if there is certain circumstances. Tommy was engaged but ended his engagement when he met Bella. However, the ex was jealous and ended up attacking Bella which wound up with Bella murdering the ex which lead to our second huge moment of the book.
Our third huge moment of the book is when the cousins all went home for the weekend and Bella was also brought along. The boys used the girls, Bella and Maddy, to be distractions while the boys talked with members of the rival firm. However, because Bella was involved that went sour fast when one of the men held a gun to Bella's head and she shoved him so they both ended up on a fountain soaked. Bella ran back to the house and Tommy lost his cool and shot the man because he touched what was "his" meaning Bella.
Add in other elements such as found family, knife play, roses with double meanings, and an explosive plot twist at the end and you'll be just as hooked as I was with this novel!
5/5 stars and not so patiently waiting for the next installment in the Ravenwood Academy Series
*May contain Spoilers*
Let me first start off by saying that I believe this is the first book from Nicole Dennis and I have to say that it was a huge success with me.
Cruel Education is a story centered around Isabella, who was sent to Ravenwood Academy after she murdered 3 men after they murdered her family. Isabella was given the choice to attend Ravenwood Academy to hone her skills and become a trained killer or go to prison. Obviously we know which one she chose otherwise this would be a very short review.
Now keep in mind this is a dark, mafia-esque story romance with more mature themes and therefore all of the characters are over the age of 18 and Ravenwood Academy is essentially college for our characters.
Isabella, Bella, is roomed with Maddy who is sister to Callum and is very attached to Bella from the start. Maddy and Callum's cousins Felix, Archie, and Tommy also attend the academy and surprise all the cousins and their family is in the Mafia. The story continues on when on the first night the boys kidnap Bella and plan to torture her to see if she will break. Instead she escapes them and steals their car to run away. When driving away, Bella has a thought that she shouldn't run from these guys because it was a sign of weakness and ultimately goes back and leaves them there thus leading to our first huge moment in the story where Tommy "claims" Bella and we as the reader in Bella's POV have to figure out what "Claimed" means and why Tommy chose her.
As the story evolves Tommy has basically taken any choices away from Bella and is very controlling (but come on we love a man who is controlling in stories just not in real life) and between the rules and the treatment Bella gets from Tommy she is fed up with everything and wants to make his life as hard as he has made hers. There is a massive connection and attraction between Tommy and Bella and as the reader you are reaching and hoping for it and keep wondering when are they going to give in. It is a definite slow burn and in a very nicely done way when they do collide. Part of the Mafia rules is the men are allowed to choose their wife but can end an engagement if there is certain circumstances. Tommy was engaged but ended his engagement when he met Bella. However, the ex was jealous and ended up attacking Bella which wound up with Bella murdering the ex which lead to our second huge moment of the book.
Our third huge moment of the book is when the cousins all went home for the weekend and Bella was also brought along. The boys used the girls, Bella and Maddy, to be distractions while the boys talked with members of the rival firm. However, because Bella was involved that went sour fast when one of the men held a gun to Bella's head and she shoved him so they both ended up on a fountain soaked. Bella ran back to the house and Tommy lost his cool and shot the man because he touched what was "his" meaning Bella.
Add in other elements such as found family, knife play, roses with double meanings, and an explosive plot twist at the end and you'll be just as hooked as I was with this novel!
5/5 stars and not so patiently waiting for the next installment in the Ravenwood Academy Series
February 4, 2024
It was quiet a quick read. The beginning was more of like reading someone’s dairy. I would say with each chapter I liked the book more and more. Even tho the “theme” it’s not really my cup of tea, I enjoyed it.
Slow burn for sure.
Everything goes around 6 people and from all of them, Tommy was my favorite. He was quiet, mysterious, and possessive in his own way. Callum wasn’t bad either, more obvious with what he said and did - my second favorite guy. Bella is a tough cookie. Smart and quick learner. I like the way she wants to know everything and it’s not scared to “provoke” Tommy. Their dynamic was enjoyable, especially when he opened to her.
Also, her friendship with Maddie is on point since day one. Hopefully nothing will break it.
Last 2-3 chapters were a little surprising. Didn’t expect it at all. And at this moment, I just knew is either sloppy ending or waiting for another book to come. I’m glad there will be more coming.
Slow burn for sure.
Everything goes around 6 people and from all of them, Tommy was my favorite. He was quiet, mysterious, and possessive in his own way. Callum wasn’t bad either, more obvious with what he said and did - my second favorite guy. Bella is a tough cookie. Smart and quick learner. I like the way she wants to know everything and it’s not scared to “provoke” Tommy. Their dynamic was enjoyable, especially when he opened to her.
Also, her friendship with Maddie is on point since day one. Hopefully nothing will break it.
Last 2-3 chapters were a little surprising. Didn’t expect it at all. And at this moment, I just knew is either sloppy ending or waiting for another book to come. I’m glad there will be more coming.
August 12, 2022
#ARC Review
This is Nicole's deute and it was freaking amazing! I was hooked from the beginning and was mad when it ended! There were definetly some twists and turns I didn't see coming! There is a hell of a cliff hanger that will have you asking what the hell just happened, but it is so worth it! I am excited to see what happens next and can't wait for book 2. I need answers!!!
This is Nicole's deute and it was freaking amazing! I was hooked from the beginning and was mad when it ended! There were definetly some twists and turns I didn't see coming! There is a hell of a cliff hanger that will have you asking what the hell just happened, but it is so worth it! I am excited to see what happens next and can't wait for book 2. I need answers!!!
September 14, 2022
Can someone please tell me when book 2 is out because that was best book I've read in ages. Tommy reminds me of Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blinders 😍 I love the characters and how invested I am in them all. Would love to get to know The Kray family more especially Nana.
How do I know what book 2 is called and when it's out?!
How do I know what book 2 is called and when it's out?!
September 26, 2022
So, my book bestie book fairied me this book because she and our other bestie loved it! So, I started it and omg! I was hooked right away! I could not put it down and did not want too! But whyyy the cliffhanger! I want book 2 now! I love the characters especially the BA Bella and Maddy. I also of course loved the boys, especially Callum and Tommy. The spice hit when it hit! Ughh I can’t wait!
March 21, 2023
Loved. Loved. Loved. Loved loved loved!
A great story that begins with our Fmc, Isabella accidentally killing a boy at 14, then saving herself from 3 intruders who murders her mum and brother.
This ends up with her having a choice of prison or attending Ravenwood Academy - a specialised school where, basically killers are trained. Normally kids of the Mafia, military, government or ones in Isabellas case - those who seem to have a natural indication towards it recieve invitation.
She sees it as a punishment as really isn't looking firward to it. But from the moment she meets her roommate, Madeline - Maddy, things go very different.
Maddy is part of the Kray Mafia, and straight away the 5 boys take an interest in Bella.
This was such a great read.
Bella is a brilliant FMC, a fantastic firecracker who won't bow down to the Krays, especially Tommy. Their relationship is full of passionate push and pull. The chemistry between them is so clear but neither will be the first to drop their defenses!
Maddy is a lovely best friend. A perfect contrast to Bella. Where she is quick to anger, Maddy is the one to help her calm first before she does anything. She softens Bella edges. They compliment each other so well!
The kray boys I'm looking forward to getting to know more too. Daisy and Jack have been brought in for a reason too which could be fun. Felix for daisy and archive for Jack. Yum!
The cliffhanger was a jaw dropper. I'd started to think something like this was happening but not the actual ending!!!
As a debut novel, Ms Dennis knocked it out the park. I just need the next one now please!!!!!!
A great story that begins with our Fmc, Isabella accidentally killing a boy at 14, then saving herself from 3 intruders who murders her mum and brother.
This ends up with her having a choice of prison or attending Ravenwood Academy - a specialised school where, basically killers are trained. Normally kids of the Mafia, military, government or ones in Isabellas case - those who seem to have a natural indication towards it recieve invitation.
She sees it as a punishment as really isn't looking firward to it. But from the moment she meets her roommate, Madeline - Maddy, things go very different.
Maddy is part of the Kray Mafia, and straight away the 5 boys take an interest in Bella.
This was such a great read.
Bella is a brilliant FMC, a fantastic firecracker who won't bow down to the Krays, especially Tommy. Their relationship is full of passionate push and pull. The chemistry between them is so clear but neither will be the first to drop their defenses!
Maddy is a lovely best friend. A perfect contrast to Bella. Where she is quick to anger, Maddy is the one to help her calm first before she does anything. She softens Bella edges. They compliment each other so well!
The kray boys I'm looking forward to getting to know more too. Daisy and Jack have been brought in for a reason too which could be fun. Felix for daisy and archive for Jack. Yum!
The cliffhanger was a jaw dropper. I'd started to think something like this was happening but not the actual ending!!!
As a debut novel, Ms Dennis knocked it out the park. I just need the next one now please!!!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2022
I was gifted an arc of this book for an honest review. And....wow! I won't go into details but this book is brilliant! It's sexy and the twists and turns keep you going! To say I need book 2 in my life immediately is an understatement! A brilliant first entry to a series I know I will relish every book in.
August 4, 2022
Got this book as an ARC and when I tell you it blew me away 😍😍😍
I fell in love with the atmosphere of the book, taken place at a school for criminal families. The main characters will immediately make you fall in love with them. And the ending will leave you wanting more♥️
Easily one of my favorite reads this year and I CANNOT wait for book 2😘😘
I fell in love with the atmosphere of the book, taken place at a school for criminal families. The main characters will immediately make you fall in love with them. And the ending will leave you wanting more♥️
Easily one of my favorite reads this year and I CANNOT wait for book 2😘😘
August 26, 2022
This was a really good book. It had that kind of angsty slow burn of emotions that were constantly going back and forth between tommy and Isabella. The twists and turns through parts of the book keeps you pulled in and constantly trying to figure out what will happen next. it has a great build up to some spice and a great story line too!!!!
August 9, 2022
I received an ARC of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
This book was so good! I loved the idea of “k1ller camps” in the Shadow Grove series and this takes it a step farther with a formal school setting. It’s so fascinating the classes they take and the type of people that attend-mostly mafia types. The depth of the characters was good, the pacing good, and the spice (although the tension is there, it takes a bit to get really spicy, but it’s worth it). The overall story wasn’t as predictable as I thought, although I did guess some of them, the ones I didn’t really knocked me on my arse. These are not high school students, they have to be 18+ to get in, so if you’re not a fan of HS romance books, fear not. It is a dark romance, please read the trigger warnings beforehand, and know these characters are definitely morally gray. The book ends on a cliffhanger, but it’s a goooooood one I promise. I can’t wait for the next book already.
TL;DR: Mafia (“firms”); enemies to lovers; dark romance-unalivers (morally gray characters); spicy.
This book was so good! I loved the idea of “k1ller camps” in the Shadow Grove series and this takes it a step farther with a formal school setting. It’s so fascinating the classes they take and the type of people that attend-mostly mafia types. The depth of the characters was good, the pacing good, and the spice (although the tension is there, it takes a bit to get really spicy, but it’s worth it). The overall story wasn’t as predictable as I thought, although I did guess some of them, the ones I didn’t really knocked me on my arse. These are not high school students, they have to be 18+ to get in, so if you’re not a fan of HS romance books, fear not. It is a dark romance, please read the trigger warnings beforehand, and know these characters are definitely morally gray. The book ends on a cliffhanger, but it’s a goooooood one I promise. I can’t wait for the next book already.
TL;DR: Mafia (“firms”); enemies to lovers; dark romance-unalivers (morally gray characters); spicy.
August 12, 2022
5⭐️3/5🔥
You guys! This book is Nicole’s Debut and she killed it! I enjoyed this sooo much. 💦
So our h, Bella, was a bad ass. You learn about her past and how this makes her character grow.
She’s sent to a high school for bad ass kids - previous killing is usually needed for entrance.
The whole concept of this school is amazing and I want to read more about it! Maybe more spin offs???
Anywhoooo, she gets claimed by the most ruthless guys and then she dominates their asses!
***so the author knows that I thought and wished this was a RH because I sure was super hopeful… but it’s not. But maybe the next books will be?!? 🍆🍆🍆🍆
It ends on a super clifffffff so be prepared. You’ll be begging for more. 😈
Can’t wait for the next one!!
Xoxoox💋 ARC
You guys! This book is Nicole’s Debut and she killed it! I enjoyed this sooo much. 💦
So our h, Bella, was a bad ass. You learn about her past and how this makes her character grow.
She’s sent to a high school for bad ass kids - previous killing is usually needed for entrance.
The whole concept of this school is amazing and I want to read more about it! Maybe more spin offs???
Anywhoooo, she gets claimed by the most ruthless guys and then she dominates their asses!
***so the author knows that I thought and wished this was a RH because I sure was super hopeful… but it’s not. But maybe the next books will be?!? 🍆🍆🍆🍆
It ends on a super clifffffff so be prepared. You’ll be begging for more. 😈
Can’t wait for the next one!!
Xoxoox💋 ARC
August 5, 2022
It took my mind a big to get the concept of this school and what exactly was going on and realizing that the students were all 18 years old or older.
Once I had that settled in my mind, it came together well and I loved the way it played out. I loved the characters and the storyline. I loved the concept of the Roses and the meanings and such. I feel like I'm missing part of the story though towards the end. This is the reason I rated it 3 instead of 4 stars. I'm hoping that the next book will fill this feeling of missing something.
I'm ready for book 2.....now! It leaves off with a cliffhanger of sorts.
Once I had that settled in my mind, it came together well and I loved the way it played out. I loved the characters and the storyline. I loved the concept of the Roses and the meanings and such. I feel like I'm missing part of the story though towards the end. This is the reason I rated it 3 instead of 4 stars. I'm hoping that the next book will fill this feeling of missing something.
I'm ready for book 2.....now! It leaves off with a cliffhanger of sorts.
August 4, 2022
I got this book as an arc for an honest review.
My favorite read this year!! I don’t think anything will top it!!!
First and foremost the storyline and character building is incredible. I fell in love with Bella and Maddy’s friendship right away! That’s friendship goals in my opinion!
Second the other characters Callum and Tommy are great. The slow burn and not knowing what was going to happen was so beautiful. I will be honest I rooted for Tommy right away! I love his little gifts and his genuine thought put into them.
The story itself is so interesting. There are definitely trigger warning you need to take heed of, but it was a book I would typically read so it wasn’t an issue for me. I love the world she’s building! It’s not like other books I’ve read which I love. I think she built strong characters all around too. I can’t wait to see where she goes next with each one. The story had so many layers that even if the main characters aren’t your thing the others might be. That’s how great she did!
The author is amazing and super friendly. She took everything I said to her to heart, and I hoped the whole time she wasn’t mad I said anything. She didn’t and wasn’t, she was really thankful and genuinely impressed I asked questions. Also she’s awesome to just have a conversation with. I’m so glad I was able to do this for her!!!
The ending was a cliffhanger and a really really amazing one at that. I’m so so thankful there’s a book 2 in the works!!
So all in all 10 out of 5 stars and eagerly anticipating book 2 even though this one hasn’t been released yet!
My favorite read this year!! I don’t think anything will top it!!!
First and foremost the storyline and character building is incredible. I fell in love with Bella and Maddy’s friendship right away! That’s friendship goals in my opinion!
Second the other characters Callum and Tommy are great. The slow burn and not knowing what was going to happen was so beautiful. I will be honest I rooted for Tommy right away! I love his little gifts and his genuine thought put into them.
The story itself is so interesting. There are definitely trigger warning you need to take heed of, but it was a book I would typically read so it wasn’t an issue for me. I love the world she’s building! It’s not like other books I’ve read which I love. I think she built strong characters all around too. I can’t wait to see where she goes next with each one. The story had so many layers that even if the main characters aren’t your thing the others might be. That’s how great she did!
The author is amazing and super friendly. She took everything I said to her to heart, and I hoped the whole time she wasn’t mad I said anything. She didn’t and wasn’t, she was really thankful and genuinely impressed I asked questions. Also she’s awesome to just have a conversation with. I’m so glad I was able to do this for her!!!
The ending was a cliffhanger and a really really amazing one at that. I’m so so thankful there’s a book 2 in the works!!
So all in all 10 out of 5 stars and eagerly anticipating book 2 even though this one hasn’t been released yet!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2023
I came across this by chance, ran out of new books to read so I thought why not. Never heard of the author before and I was expecting the usual antics from the book. There's so many academy books now that it's become a little boring.
Boy was I wrong, this book has so many twists and turns you'll be suffering whiplash by the end of it.
Smooth writing style, it just flows effortlessly. Plenty of drama, comedy which I was a giggling wreck, almost pee'd myself a few times. I was getting stares a few times like I needed to be sectioned in the local mental health asylum.
I read alot, like a whole book a day so I know when I say I have found a new favourite author to add to my list and will definitely be keeping up with this series. I'm writing this review because I was blown away literally, finally another author that can send you speeding down the highway and let's go of the steering wheel. Loving the characters especially callum and nan, actually the whole lot of them. The cliffhanger though, it's like watching a movie only reading it which is more fun as you get everything in more detail.
Boy was I wrong, this book has so many twists and turns you'll be suffering whiplash by the end of it.
Smooth writing style, it just flows effortlessly. Plenty of drama, comedy which I was a giggling wreck, almost pee'd myself a few times. I was getting stares a few times like I needed to be sectioned in the local mental health asylum.
I read alot, like a whole book a day so I know when I say I have found a new favourite author to add to my list and will definitely be keeping up with this series. I'm writing this review because I was blown away literally, finally another author that can send you speeding down the highway and let's go of the steering wheel. Loving the characters especially callum and nan, actually the whole lot of them. The cliffhanger though, it's like watching a movie only reading it which is more fun as you get everything in more detail.
August 26, 2022
Highly recommend this book! A fantastic read and start to a series! I was sucked in immediately and couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Isabella (Bella) committed a crime when she was 15 and was given the option of going to prison or to Ravenwood Academy to become a trained killer. She is roomed with Maddy whom is the mafia"the firm" along with her brother Callum and cousins Archie, Felix and Tommy. Bella is claimed by Tommy (will take things over with "the firm")and brought into the fold of their little group. Besides going to school and learning to become a killer, Bella is given assignments by Tommy that have nothing to do with the school. Throughout the course of the book Tommy is trying to win over Bella.
This Book has drama, suspense, intrigue, romance, a little spice, knife play, roses with several meanings, Mafia-esque and the ending is a cliffhanger with a plot twist I never saw coming! I can't wait to read the next book in this series! I was gifted an ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
This Book has drama, suspense, intrigue, romance, a little spice, knife play, roses with several meanings, Mafia-esque and the ending is a cliffhanger with a plot twist I never saw coming! I can't wait to read the next book in this series! I was gifted an ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
August 4, 2022
Holy shit! I was hooked and loved every minute of this book. The tension between Isabella and Tommy was as hot as the sun and when it blew it was atomic! The group dynamic was fantastic and I loved that she kept more interactions between Isabella the not so damsel in distress and the other members of the group and it was a seamless process. There were no dead spaces for me and I really appreciated that she wrote this book in the dialect different then it being Americanized. This book had Fiery Passion, Devotion, Loyalty, Betrayal and who wouldn’t suspect a cliffhanger! I will be anxiously waiting for the next book.
August 5, 2022
Once Isabella gets to the Ravenwood Academy things get super interesting. It quite literally took over my mind with the fantasy world created in the setting of a killer university where everyone is a murderer, the character plot twisting and turning between the FMC and the four cousins, it all captured me in a way that I could not put this book down. It has just a little bit of every type of book boyfriend style from edgy bad boy to love sick puppy to the hard exterior interior marshmallow man. From all four cousins you get a different type of character to add more depth to Isabella's adventure. Overall, AMAZING book. Would gladly reread over and over.
August 6, 2022
Arc review
This book makes me think of Kit Davenport with the school setting but so much better. I was hooked from the first page. I was fully expecting Bella to get with both Callum and Tommy, but once I got to see bits and pieces of Tommy I knew he was the one for her. Bella brings out a softer protective side to Tommy and he helps her embrace the life they live at the school for killing. I can honestly say the ending was not what I was expecting at all but it just makes me wish the second book was already out so I continue on the journey with the Kray’s because no matter what Bella choose at the end she is and will be a Kray in my mind!
This book makes me think of Kit Davenport with the school setting but so much better. I was hooked from the first page. I was fully expecting Bella to get with both Callum and Tommy, but once I got to see bits and pieces of Tommy I knew he was the one for her. Bella brings out a softer protective side to Tommy and he helps her embrace the life they live at the school for killing. I can honestly say the ending was not what I was expecting at all but it just makes me wish the second book was already out so I continue on the journey with the Kray’s because no matter what Bella choose at the end she is and will be a Kray in my mind!
September 23, 2022
Absolute gold of a debut novel!
When Isabella goes to a school to train killers, she is quickly thrust into a world of mafia boys and claimed as one of their own whether she likes it or not. Fierce and independent, she fights them every step of the way and I love it.
Bella is such a strong female lead and I want to be her when I grow up. Her best friend, Maddy is hilarious and loyal. The love interest (no spoilers) is hot as hell. The banter is amazing and the slow burn of the relationship is so satisfying when it all comes together (pun intended).
This is one of those books I couldn't wait to come home from work and continue to read and I am dying for the next one to come out.
When Isabella goes to a school to train killers, she is quickly thrust into a world of mafia boys and claimed as one of their own whether she likes it or not. Fierce and independent, she fights them every step of the way and I love it.
Bella is such a strong female lead and I want to be her when I grow up. Her best friend, Maddy is hilarious and loyal. The love interest (no spoilers) is hot as hell. The banter is amazing and the slow burn of the relationship is so satisfying when it all comes together (pun intended).
This is one of those books I couldn't wait to come home from work and continue to read and I am dying for the next one to come out.
August 23, 2022
From page one I was hooked and did not want to put it down. I enjoyed the plot development. I especially loved the humor mixed in throughout the book. The main characters were interesting and well defined. The FMC is a bada** but also fun! I got serious mafia vibes and loved every minute. I flew through the entire book in less than two days (thanks to adulting and responsibility or it would have been one I read cover to cover in one sitting) and now I can't wait for part 2! Nicole Dennis did an amazing job on book one and I expect great things in the next one! #ARCreview
January 29, 2023
I downloaded this off a quote from tiktok and was so glad I did! I mainly went in blind and loved that. This is a mafia-ish romance for sure. These kids are out of high school and at an elite school for “unalivers” they’re are trained to protect and kill and work on their skills together at this school. Isabella is there because she’s killed before & that’s a school requirement before you’re admitted. She meets a group of boys, one in particular named Tommy. She has her guard up and although he seems interested he’s very subtle about it. This is a SLOW BURN romance but once the burn is there it’s so hot and spicy. Isabella is fierce and tommy is the ultimate protector. This is told is Isabella’s point of view and she’s fantastic and the toughest girl out there. The ending will leave you speechless and grasping for the next book. So many twists and turns that I did not see coming.
October 29, 2024
⚔️Cruel Education⚔️
“𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕗𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕓𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕜𝕖𝕖𝕡 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕞𝕖.”
I won't go over the blurb as you can read in the description. 🧐🤔
ℝ𝕒𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕨𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝔸𝕔𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕞𝕪 𝕊𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤
1. Cruel Education
2. Vicious Lessons
- Mafia
- Academy
- Slow burn
- MF
- Amazing Spice
- Toxic dark romance
- Angst
Great start to a brilliant duet onto book 2. 📖
Thank you, Nicole Dennis💐
Story 📚📚📚📚
Characters ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶
#CruelEducation #RavenwoodAcademySeries #NicoleDennis #IsabellaAndTommy #MF #Mafia #Academy #Spice #Angst #Adult #Triggers #GreatStart #TW
“𝕋𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕀 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕗𝕠𝕝𝕝𝕠𝕨 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕝𝕝 𝕓𝕖𝕔𝕒𝕦𝕤𝕖 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟 𝕕𝕖𝕒𝕥𝕙 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕜𝕖𝕖𝕡 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕒𝕨𝕒𝕪 𝕗𝕣𝕠𝕞 𝕞𝕖.”
I won't go over the blurb as you can read in the description. 🧐🤔
ℝ𝕒𝕧𝕖𝕟𝕨𝕠𝕠𝕕 𝔸𝕔𝕒𝕕𝕖𝕞𝕪 𝕊𝕖𝕣𝕚𝕖𝕤
1. Cruel Education
2. Vicious Lessons
- Mafia
- Academy
- Slow burn
- MF
- Amazing Spice
- Toxic dark romance
- Angst
Great start to a brilliant duet onto book 2. 📖
Thank you, Nicole Dennis💐
Story 📚📚📚📚
Characters ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶
#CruelEducation #RavenwoodAcademySeries #NicoleDennis #IsabellaAndTommy #MF #Mafia #Academy #Spice #Angst #Adult #Triggers #GreatStart #TW
August 5, 2022
I received Cruel Education by N. Dennis as an ARC. I started and finished the book in 24 hours because I couldn't put it down!! It's a slow burn, mafia, enemies to lovers (possibly back to enemies) with an amazing FMC and alphahole that you can't help but love and a tribe of amazing supporting characters that are funny as heck! A few plot twists that leave you wanting more!! I can't wait for book 2!
August 5, 2022
OMG!!!! This book had me hooked from the first sentence. Lots of trigger warnings so be prepared. Great characters, story line was fast paced and not repetitive. Please hurry and write the second book. You left me hanging and wanting more. I don't like multi book stories normally because they just repeat the same drama over and over and don't move the story along. Not the case with this book. Dark, gritty, spicy, captivating, leaves you wanting more.
November 20, 2022
I really enjoyed this book, right from the start it kept me interested. It was slow on the romance part of it, took a while for anything to happen but the spice was pretty good once it did. The storyline was really good, better than I would've expected it to be. I couldn't really put the book down because I wanted to know what was going to happen. Definitely a good surprise towards the end and it for sure leaves you wanting more. I can't wait for book two!
November 21, 2022
This book is on fire 🔥
This book has dark romance, murder, violence, steamy scenes. It is totally on fire, you are on the edge of your seat at all times. Hot as F**k guys. The spice of this book is amazing. The characters are well written and the story line is amazing. If you haven't yet, you need to read this book now, I don't know what you are waiting for. You will be begging for book two.
This book has dark romance, murder, violence, steamy scenes. It is totally on fire, you are on the edge of your seat at all times. Hot as F**k guys. The spice of this book is amazing. The characters are well written and the story line is amazing. If you haven't yet, you need to read this book now, I don't know what you are waiting for. You will be begging for book two.
December 3, 2022
First off, I dived into this book completely blind, and I’m so happy I did. I loved how intense this story is, and love Isabella. I love a strong female lead that doesn’t put up with possessiveness, until they want it. This story has a great plot line, and the mystery keeps you on your toes. It’s not too gruesome, but enough to keep it enticing. I cannot wait for the second book after this crazy cliffhanger.
April 20, 2023
Very silly but enjoyable
So we have gangsters whose names make them sound more like the Famous Five (Tommy, Callum, Archie, Madeline and Felix). The plot moved well and characterisation wasn't bad, although the big bad gangsta Jr's were a bit eyerolly stereotypical, not as good as Spike. Needed a really good edit, some of the fails were quite amusing (scolding water, adverted eyes, wondering hands, nocking knees and the "croissant of the counter"). Ha ha ha
So we have gangsters whose names make them sound more like the Famous Five (Tommy, Callum, Archie, Madeline and Felix). The plot moved well and characterisation wasn't bad, although the big bad gangsta Jr's were a bit eyerolly stereotypical, not as good as Spike. Needed a really good edit, some of the fails were quite amusing (scolding water, adverted eyes, wondering hands, nocking knees and the "croissant of the counter"). Ha ha ha
September 30, 2023
slow
This book was a slow burn for sure. It leaves off on a cliff hanger. I did not like the name Tommy but i love the character. Secrets and lives follows and we dont get to the feel oh shxt moments until the last 5% of the book. I didnt like how Isabella jump ship. She was mad Tommy knew about her brother but never question why after 3 years he showed up now with no contact with another man she dont know but claiming she’s his. Like girl come on!!
This book was a slow burn for sure. It leaves off on a cliff hanger. I did not like the name Tommy but i love the character. Secrets and lives follows and we dont get to the feel oh shxt moments until the last 5% of the book. I didnt like how Isabella jump ship. She was mad Tommy knew about her brother but never question why after 3 years he showed up now with no contact with another man she dont know but claiming she’s his. Like girl come on!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews