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Kings of McKenzie High #1
Pretty Cruel Boys
"Stay out of my way or I'll break you."
The warning couldn't be clearer. Zachariah Cameron may have the money of Midas, the face of an Instagram model, and a body that girls crave to touch, but he's also a bona fide psycho. Beating people as a job not because he needs the money (see above) but because he wants to. He likes it.
Nobody would be foolish enough to disobey his instructions.
Nobody…
Except me.
Because even though he holds the key to destroy my life, I must cross his path or risk losing my sister.
So I'll follow his new rules.
I'll obey his sick wishes.
I'll bend to his commands.
No matter where that leads.
He promised to let me go when he's done… but the longer I play his game the less I believe him. Because Zach always gets what he wants and this time?
What he wants is me.
This is a DARK/BULLY romance and contains graphic violence, mature content, and elements that may be triggering. Please read at your own discretion and check the warning in the preface of the book.
The warning couldn't be clearer. Zachariah Cameron may have the money of Midas, the face of an Instagram model, and a body that girls crave to touch, but he's also a bona fide psycho. Beating people as a job not because he needs the money (see above) but because he wants to. He likes it.
Nobody would be foolish enough to disobey his instructions.
Nobody…
Except me.
Because even though he holds the key to destroy my life, I must cross his path or risk losing my sister.
So I'll follow his new rules.
I'll obey his sick wishes.
I'll bend to his commands.
No matter where that leads.
He promised to let me go when he's done… but the longer I play his game the less I believe him. Because Zach always gets what he wants and this time?
What he wants is me.
This is a DARK/BULLY romance and contains graphic violence, mature content, and elements that may be triggering. Please read at your own discretion and check the warning in the preface of the book.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 29, 2022
1300 people are currently reading
1431 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
August 31, 2022
2.5⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Bully Romance (High School)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 1/5
Dark level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Rich/Dark
Series: N/A
Pages: 360
Audio: N/A
Price: KU / $4.99
STORY:
What I Like:
I think the plot of this story has a lot of potential. Lilac and Zach were interesting. The first chapter knocked my door down and It was so promising. The first chapter was dark, with a few details about rape, revenge, suicide and execution style like murder that’s just chapter one. It had enough information to get you excited for what’s to come.
What Is So So:
I really struggle with rating this story. Was it bad, no, was it great, no. It just did not fully stay on the concept of the story of what I was expecting it to be, a bully romance. The plot of the book got lost in translation for me. I came prepared for a bully, but it really wasn’t that. The first chapter really had me hyped, but after the excitement, with each chapter, my excitement started declining with the way the story was shaping out to be. There really was no build up of intensity between Zach and Lilac or at least long enough to wet the appetite. This for me is crucial because that build up and intensity is what is needed for the first part of the story. Zach more threatens Lilac, but he really didn’t fall through fully in my opinion.
What Zach was doing, it really wasn’t bullying to me, a little intimidation and then he quickly became obsessive over Lilac. That same dark energy Zach had in chapter one, that’s what was needed for the first half of the story to give it that dark, intense, bad boy bully feel when he saw Lilac again. Lilac, although she had a troubled past, I didn’t get that from her. She just seemed unsure of herself majority of the time.
The title also noted Cruel Boys, the other guys came off really nice. By 50% the concept got lost to me. There were other sub issues that took over and you kind of forget what the issue was in the first place. I think it should have just been noted as a Dark High School Romance, although the dark for me was light, which is ok.
I don’t have an issue with the way the author writes. For this particular story, I had an issue with the way the story flowed. Not a big deal there were some slangs I weren’t familiar with as this story was taking place in New Zealand.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
Sex scenes were good, however, it could have been awesome for me if I felt more build up and intensity between the characters.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Em, I almost felt like she didn’t belong. It’s like she was put there because a mean girl was needed. She was extremely annoying, so at least she play her position on that part. Trent and Caylon weren’t bad, they actually came of too nice at times.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? No really
Did I like the story? Yes and No
If a series, would I read/continue with the other books in the series,? Not sure, but would still try another book by the author
TRIGGERS: Suicide, mention of rape, killing, drug.
NOTES: Virgin Heroine, No cheating, a little ow drama.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Dark Bully Romance (High School)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 1/5
Dark level: 1.5/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes
Male: Rich/Dark
Series: N/A
Pages: 360
Audio: N/A
Price: KU / $4.99
STORY:
What I Like:
I think the plot of this story has a lot of potential. Lilac and Zach were interesting. The first chapter knocked my door down and It was so promising. The first chapter was dark, with a few details about rape, revenge, suicide and execution style like murder that’s just chapter one. It had enough information to get you excited for what’s to come.
What Is So So:
I really struggle with rating this story. Was it bad, no, was it great, no. It just did not fully stay on the concept of the story of what I was expecting it to be, a bully romance. The plot of the book got lost in translation for me. I came prepared for a bully, but it really wasn’t that. The first chapter really had me hyped, but after the excitement, with each chapter, my excitement started declining with the way the story was shaping out to be. There really was no build up of intensity between Zach and Lilac or at least long enough to wet the appetite. This for me is crucial because that build up and intensity is what is needed for the first part of the story. Zach more threatens Lilac, but he really didn’t fall through fully in my opinion.
What Zach was doing, it really wasn’t bullying to me, a little intimidation and then he quickly became obsessive over Lilac. That same dark energy Zach had in chapter one, that’s what was needed for the first half of the story to give it that dark, intense, bad boy bully feel when he saw Lilac again. Lilac, although she had a troubled past, I didn’t get that from her. She just seemed unsure of herself majority of the time.
The title also noted Cruel Boys, the other guys came off really nice. By 50% the concept got lost to me. There were other sub issues that took over and you kind of forget what the issue was in the first place. I think it should have just been noted as a Dark High School Romance, although the dark for me was light, which is ok.
I don’t have an issue with the way the author writes. For this particular story, I had an issue with the way the story flowed. Not a big deal there were some slangs I weren’t familiar with as this story was taking place in New Zealand.
SEXUAL CHEMISTRY:
Sex scenes were good, however, it could have been awesome for me if I felt more build up and intensity between the characters.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Em, I almost felt like she didn’t belong. It’s like she was put there because a mean girl was needed. She was extremely annoying, so at least she play her position on that part. Trent and Caylon weren’t bad, they actually came of too nice at times.
OVERALL:
Was I entertained? No really
Did I like the story? Yes and No
If a series, would I read/continue with the other books in the series,? Not sure, but would still try another book by the author
TRIGGERS: Suicide, mention of rape, killing, drug.
NOTES: Virgin Heroine, No cheating, a little ow drama.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
dnf
October 26, 2022DNF @ 20% - I’m losing brain cells. I tried this one twice and it didn’t improve over time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2026
4⭐️
This was my first read by this author and I really liked it 😊.
If felt like the characters were written very true to the way they were brought up and how they are living now … they weren’t prettied up at all.
Despite want to strangle Zach quite a few times I really liked both characters and the story was great.
This was my first read by this author and I really liked it 😊.
If felt like the characters were written very true to the way they were brought up and how they are living now … they weren’t prettied up at all.
Despite want to strangle Zach quite a few times I really liked both characters and the story was great.
August 19, 2022
This was a free ARC I received, and below is my voluntary review.
Just reading the 1st chapter you can tell it may be a cautionary read, considering that it's delves in off the back with sexual assault, some type of drug use, as well as Suicide and even murder. This type of book may not be for everyone, so I'd take caution to the trigger warning. I myself don't have triggers so I can get past this but this is just a cautionary warning for readers. Once you get past the first chapter it really isn't that bad of a story. I really like the development between the two main characters.
Story starts off with Lilac (Lily) tracking down a guy at an abandon building named Robbie Who's about 17/18 years old, and is wanting to put a bullet in his head. Because Robbie had made a sex video of him drugging and a raping her foster sister Tessa. Even going as far as posting the video online for everyone to see. Due to these actions unfortunately Tessa had decided to commit suicide. So wanting to get justice for Tessa she tracks down Robbie. When she finally comes face to face with a gun pointed at him, an unwanted visitor enters the room; Zach. Then followed by the rest of they're little group. Tessa shows Zach the proof that what she claims is in fact true show him a video, Zach then shows the video to his buddies confirming that it is Robbie in the video. Zach then gives his blessing on letting Lily seek out her punishment on Robbie. In the end she's not able to pull the trigger, Surprisingly Zach takes the gun from her and shoots Robbie in the head. He then Threatens Lily If she speaks of this in any way, tries to confront them about this, he will hand over the gun to the police since her finger prints are on it. Also Promising he'll break her. She agrees to the terms takes the gun from him and walks up to Robbie's corps and shoots him multiple times in the face to where he's unrecognizable.
A week after the event, Lilac starts and attends a new school. Dee is a student that was assigned to showing her around. Dee introduces Lilac to her friend Em, when out of nowhere Zach (who happens to be Ems boyfriend) makes an appearance, not expecting to see him Lilac excuses herself and runs to the restroom. As luck has it Zach is seen no where for the rest of the day.
In Zach's point of view we find out that he knew about Robbie and the situation with Tessa, saying that was the last straw. And that the original plan was to have him be scared away even going as far as beating the crap out of him. Not expected Lilac to be there pointing a gun at him, or even getting murdered. Zach found Robbie to be very irritating, wanting to be rid of him. I'm thinking since Zach knew about what Robbie was doing, that he was the one who uploaded the sex video. As a means to get rid of him. It seem over the past week Zach hasn't been able to stop thinking about Lilac. After taking care of business he goes in search of her and has an interesting conversation which ended with her agreeing to do 5 tasks in order for Zach and his buddies to leave her be.
Lilacs first task is to wear only whats in the box (package that was delivered) for school next day. In it only a fitted dress and yellow heels. The following day she does as instructed, Zach puts a jacket on her (which she find out its Trents jersey) not realizing that it was cold out. As the day goes by in the one class she shares with Zach, his buddies hand over a piece of clothing to her first a pair of socks, then a bra (in which the guy helps put it on her), then finally a pair of underwear. At the same time this is happening in front of the whole class.
The second task a little more risque, she was sent lingerie and some explicit items, that she has to take pictures of with on and send then to Zach. After Zach received the photos he can't stop staring at them. After this he dumps Em for good and goes after Lilac wanting to see her. On a Saturday night he sneeks into her room and things between the two get very heated. Ending with Lilac giving herself to Zach completely.
One thing I like about Zach is that he won't force things but instead asks permission to do them.
Once Lilac is given the third task, she wants to refuse not knowing what it entails, just that she has to complete a request that were given by Zack and his friends. He does give her an ultimatum stating that he would forget the rest of the tasks if Lilac tells him who she gave the phone he bought her to. Deciding not to say, she has until the end of the week to complete the request given.
Sometime after this things don't seem to go well for Lilac. Due to unknown info not given, Lilacs supervised visits to her sister has been temporarily suspended until further notice. As well as Lilac losing her job because Em told a lie to her employer. Not knowing what to do Lilac decides to skips out on school. Zach makes a surprise visit wanting to know what's going on. Lilac decides to tell him that the phone he bought her she gave to her sister so that she could have communication with her, since her sisters foster mother took away the last phone. She goes on to tell him about her supervised visits being temporarily suspended, at this Zach offers to help her by getting her lawyers. She also tell him that she no longer has a job, keeping the tie bit about Em to herself. Zach also offers on getting her a job. At the same time Lilac calls Zach her boyfriend which he definitely agrees to, he also makes it know that he'd marry her in a heartbeat. At this revelation he makes it very known how much he cares for Lilac.
Lilac gets the job at the cosino, meets with a lawyer to see about getting her visitations reinstated, but doesn't look like that'll be happening. She even set up a meeting with Sierra's foster dad Bradley about getting her visitations back, but yet again doesn't seem likely. From the meeting definitely feels like the foster part are purposely trying to keep Lilac from seeing her sister.
About 70% in, with everything going on between Lilac and Zach I had totally forgot about the tasks that she has to do. Caylon decides to cash in on the 4th task since Zach and Trent already did theirs. Caylon has instructed Lilac to get a certain clients wallet and hand it over to Trent before 9pm and not to get caught. Lilac isn't able to go through with the tasks because when she agreed, there's be nothing illegal. So Caylon gives her an alternative task to watch videos that have something to do with Zach, even mentioning Em and Tessa. And if she can watch all straight through then he'll giver the 5th and final task.
I honestly don't know what is Caylons problem with my Lilac is but 1 thing is for certain, he obviously does not like her. It also seems that he has some ill feelings towards Zach for killing his friend; Robbie.
We find out from Lilac watching the videos that it was Zach who used to drug Tessa and have intercourse with her without her consent. Basically showing Lilac that Zach did just the same thing as Robbie. We also get the understanding that Caylon doesn't like Zach for the fact that he gets away with everything and his friend had to die for doing the exact same thing he did. Caylon also reveals that it was Zach who uploaded the video which got Tessa killed and his friend killed for. Caylon also decides to mention that it was Zach who threatened the kid that was messing with her sister.
It's not clear but I think the 5th and final task was for Lilac to drink a glass of water that was dosed to make her unconscious. Before drinking the water she tells Zach that she forgives everything that he's done in the past and even the 1 time she was at her lowest and how he took advantage of her. Lilac explains by drinking the water she's not giving consent to Zach do anything to her while she's unconscious. Hoping that he won't cross that line with her. She asks Trent to record her while she sleeps. Caylon doesn't bother to stay and watch watch may happen. The next morning when Lilac wakes up, there is residue between her legs signifying that Zach crossed the line and that they're relationship is over.
After weeks go by Zach show up one evening to help Lilac study for an exam. He explains the reason he hasn't been around was to give her space, he admit that he still very much cares for Lilac and still want to be with her. Just as a friend she agrees to go to the senior dance with him. While waiting for him, Trent shows up not realizing it was her place looking for someone by the name Rosa.
Lilac and Zach don't stay at the dance for very long instead they leave and go have pizza. As they are talking Lilac comes to realize a few things. She even asks Zach to watch the video Trent sent her, with her. He agrees to. From the video we find out that Zach never crossed that line, but why let Lilac think he did? Because he wanted to see what she would do. If she'd forgive him.
In a turn of events Lilac gets custody temporarily of her younger sister Sierra. Thing seems to start to pan out. Towards the end Zach tells Lilac that he loves her and she reciprocates it back. Nine months later things are steady. The story ends with Zach asking Lilac to marry him, which she replies with a yes.
Reading this has been a roller coaster of emotions and events. So much was happening. Really enjoyed reading this HS Bully / enemies to lovers story between Zach and Lilac. Getting to read what its been like for both characters one growing up in the foster care system and the other without family love. And how they come together making a new family together. The author has mentioned there'll be two more books in the series - Pretty Wicked Boys (Caylon and Em) & Pretty Savage Boys (Trent and Rosa), not necessarily in that order— due out later this year. So I can't wait to read and find out.
Just reading the 1st chapter you can tell it may be a cautionary read, considering that it's delves in off the back with sexual assault, some type of drug use, as well as Suicide and even murder. This type of book may not be for everyone, so I'd take caution to the trigger warning. I myself don't have triggers so I can get past this but this is just a cautionary warning for readers. Once you get past the first chapter it really isn't that bad of a story. I really like the development between the two main characters.
Story starts off with Lilac (Lily) tracking down a guy at an abandon building named Robbie Who's about 17/18 years old, and is wanting to put a bullet in his head. Because Robbie had made a sex video of him drugging and a raping her foster sister Tessa. Even going as far as posting the video online for everyone to see. Due to these actions unfortunately Tessa had decided to commit suicide. So wanting to get justice for Tessa she tracks down Robbie. When she finally comes face to face with a gun pointed at him, an unwanted visitor enters the room; Zach. Then followed by the rest of they're little group. Tessa shows Zach the proof that what she claims is in fact true show him a video, Zach then shows the video to his buddies confirming that it is Robbie in the video. Zach then gives his blessing on letting Lily seek out her punishment on Robbie. In the end she's not able to pull the trigger, Surprisingly Zach takes the gun from her and shoots Robbie in the head. He then Threatens Lily If she speaks of this in any way, tries to confront them about this, he will hand over the gun to the police since her finger prints are on it. Also Promising he'll break her. She agrees to the terms takes the gun from him and walks up to Robbie's corps and shoots him multiple times in the face to where he's unrecognizable.
A week after the event, Lilac starts and attends a new school. Dee is a student that was assigned to showing her around. Dee introduces Lilac to her friend Em, when out of nowhere Zach (who happens to be Ems boyfriend) makes an appearance, not expecting to see him Lilac excuses herself and runs to the restroom. As luck has it Zach is seen no where for the rest of the day.
In Zach's point of view we find out that he knew about Robbie and the situation with Tessa, saying that was the last straw. And that the original plan was to have him be scared away even going as far as beating the crap out of him. Not expected Lilac to be there pointing a gun at him, or even getting murdered. Zach found Robbie to be very irritating, wanting to be rid of him. I'm thinking since Zach knew about what Robbie was doing, that he was the one who uploaded the sex video. As a means to get rid of him. It seem over the past week Zach hasn't been able to stop thinking about Lilac. After taking care of business he goes in search of her and has an interesting conversation which ended with her agreeing to do 5 tasks in order for Zach and his buddies to leave her be.
Lilacs first task is to wear only whats in the box (package that was delivered) for school next day. In it only a fitted dress and yellow heels. The following day she does as instructed, Zach puts a jacket on her (which she find out its Trents jersey) not realizing that it was cold out. As the day goes by in the one class she shares with Zach, his buddies hand over a piece of clothing to her first a pair of socks, then a bra (in which the guy helps put it on her), then finally a pair of underwear. At the same time this is happening in front of the whole class.
The second task a little more risque, she was sent lingerie and some explicit items, that she has to take pictures of with on and send then to Zach. After Zach received the photos he can't stop staring at them. After this he dumps Em for good and goes after Lilac wanting to see her. On a Saturday night he sneeks into her room and things between the two get very heated. Ending with Lilac giving herself to Zach completely.
One thing I like about Zach is that he won't force things but instead asks permission to do them.
Once Lilac is given the third task, she wants to refuse not knowing what it entails, just that she has to complete a request that were given by Zack and his friends. He does give her an ultimatum stating that he would forget the rest of the tasks if Lilac tells him who she gave the phone he bought her to. Deciding not to say, she has until the end of the week to complete the request given.
Sometime after this things don't seem to go well for Lilac. Due to unknown info not given, Lilacs supervised visits to her sister has been temporarily suspended until further notice. As well as Lilac losing her job because Em told a lie to her employer. Not knowing what to do Lilac decides to skips out on school. Zach makes a surprise visit wanting to know what's going on. Lilac decides to tell him that the phone he bought her she gave to her sister so that she could have communication with her, since her sisters foster mother took away the last phone. She goes on to tell him about her supervised visits being temporarily suspended, at this Zach offers to help her by getting her lawyers. She also tell him that she no longer has a job, keeping the tie bit about Em to herself. Zach also offers on getting her a job. At the same time Lilac calls Zach her boyfriend which he definitely agrees to, he also makes it know that he'd marry her in a heartbeat. At this revelation he makes it very known how much he cares for Lilac.
Lilac gets the job at the cosino, meets with a lawyer to see about getting her visitations reinstated, but doesn't look like that'll be happening. She even set up a meeting with Sierra's foster dad Bradley about getting her visitations back, but yet again doesn't seem likely. From the meeting definitely feels like the foster part are purposely trying to keep Lilac from seeing her sister.
About 70% in, with everything going on between Lilac and Zach I had totally forgot about the tasks that she has to do. Caylon decides to cash in on the 4th task since Zach and Trent already did theirs. Caylon has instructed Lilac to get a certain clients wallet and hand it over to Trent before 9pm and not to get caught. Lilac isn't able to go through with the tasks because when she agreed, there's be nothing illegal. So Caylon gives her an alternative task to watch videos that have something to do with Zach, even mentioning Em and Tessa. And if she can watch all straight through then he'll giver the 5th and final task.
I honestly don't know what is Caylons problem with my Lilac is but 1 thing is for certain, he obviously does not like her. It also seems that he has some ill feelings towards Zach for killing his friend; Robbie.
We find out from Lilac watching the videos that it was Zach who used to drug Tessa and have intercourse with her without her consent. Basically showing Lilac that Zach did just the same thing as Robbie. We also get the understanding that Caylon doesn't like Zach for the fact that he gets away with everything and his friend had to die for doing the exact same thing he did. Caylon also reveals that it was Zach who uploaded the video which got Tessa killed and his friend killed for. Caylon also decides to mention that it was Zach who threatened the kid that was messing with her sister.
It's not clear but I think the 5th and final task was for Lilac to drink a glass of water that was dosed to make her unconscious. Before drinking the water she tells Zach that she forgives everything that he's done in the past and even the 1 time she was at her lowest and how he took advantage of her. Lilac explains by drinking the water she's not giving consent to Zach do anything to her while she's unconscious. Hoping that he won't cross that line with her. She asks Trent to record her while she sleeps. Caylon doesn't bother to stay and watch watch may happen. The next morning when Lilac wakes up, there is residue between her legs signifying that Zach crossed the line and that they're relationship is over.
After weeks go by Zach show up one evening to help Lilac study for an exam. He explains the reason he hasn't been around was to give her space, he admit that he still very much cares for Lilac and still want to be with her. Just as a friend she agrees to go to the senior dance with him. While waiting for him, Trent shows up not realizing it was her place looking for someone by the name Rosa.
Lilac and Zach don't stay at the dance for very long instead they leave and go have pizza. As they are talking Lilac comes to realize a few things. She even asks Zach to watch the video Trent sent her, with her. He agrees to. From the video we find out that Zach never crossed that line, but why let Lilac think he did? Because he wanted to see what she would do. If she'd forgive him.
In a turn of events Lilac gets custody temporarily of her younger sister Sierra. Thing seems to start to pan out. Towards the end Zach tells Lilac that he loves her and she reciprocates it back. Nine months later things are steady. The story ends with Zach asking Lilac to marry him, which she replies with a yes.
Reading this has been a roller coaster of emotions and events. So much was happening. Really enjoyed reading this HS Bully / enemies to lovers story between Zach and Lilac. Getting to read what its been like for both characters one growing up in the foster care system and the other without family love. And how they come together making a new family together. The author has mentioned there'll be two more books in the series - Pretty Wicked Boys (Caylon and Em) & Pretty Savage Boys (Trent and Rosa), not necessarily in that order— due out later this year. So I can't wait to read and find out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2022
This was something of a mess. The bullying is half-hearted at best, which is fine, I guess. I'm not a super big fan of severe bullying romances. However, the biggest mess is the h, Lilac. She is one of the most uneven characters I've come across in a while. One minute she collapses like a wet noodle when faced with a crisis and the next minute she is a quick thinking, liar able to con anyone listening to her. I honestly couldn't believe anything about her.
The whole somnophillia aspect was under cooked but had an oversized slice of the plot driver. That Zach and Lilac never even really discuss it is unhealthy and strange.
The jealous friend (with friends like him, who needs enemies?) is up next with the mean girl. I'm very much not interested.
The whole somnophillia aspect was under cooked but had an oversized slice of the plot driver. That Zach and Lilac never even really discuss it is unhealthy and strange.
The jealous friend (with friends like him, who needs enemies?) is up next with the mean girl. I'm very much not interested.
Read
August 19, 2022• A new adult bully romance
• 5 things you never want to agree upon blindly
• Dual POV
• Mafia academy romance
• Steamy!
Lilac: Lilac is an ex-druggie attempting to turn over her life and aim for college. Realistically, she has no money and not enough education, but that is not stopping her. She is a complicated but sympathetic character. I want to like her for her determination and for her utter loneliness after losing her mother and then her sister to adoption.
Her roommates are an adorable pair. Rosa and Finley are so funny together they are the best part of this novel.
Zachary: the bad boy whose job (aside from school) is as a breaker for a loan shark, I think. He roughs people up beyond what I would consider necessary to strike fear, and he kills for Lilac. This pact of silence between the two leads into an obsession, and he becomes sweetly possessive over her. I actually love the book boyfriend that won’t take no for an answer when the female is reluctant but attracted. And she is. Her reluctance stems from her mother’s whoring and her older sister’s training (which brings a lot of questions into my head). I also love how he asks if she has protection.
This is a typical bully academy romance, but since I am infatuated with the genre, I don’t mind repeat themes. However, I do cringe if I read something like “The sigh as he releases it makes me want him more than I’ve ever wanted anything before.” More than I ever wanted before? Groan. Otherwise, the prose is good. For example: “Holding onto her is like clinging to a deflating life preserver. Instead of floating us to safety, we’re both about to drown.” Considering his line of work and his lack of morals, I was not sure if he would be redeemed or she would be brought into immorality.
The theme:
I didn't expect to download a mafia-flavored romance but decided not to return it. The theme brings it out of the smut or DNF category. My husband once said that we made each other better people, and marriage is the commitment to staying better people. Don't expect Lilac to stay lily-white, and don't expect Zach to become wholesome, but they do seem to complete each other. There is a HEA.
• 5 things you never want to agree upon blindly
• Dual POV
• Mafia academy romance
• Steamy!
Lilac: Lilac is an ex-druggie attempting to turn over her life and aim for college. Realistically, she has no money and not enough education, but that is not stopping her. She is a complicated but sympathetic character. I want to like her for her determination and for her utter loneliness after losing her mother and then her sister to adoption.
Her roommates are an adorable pair. Rosa and Finley are so funny together they are the best part of this novel.
Zachary: the bad boy whose job (aside from school) is as a breaker for a loan shark, I think. He roughs people up beyond what I would consider necessary to strike fear, and he kills for Lilac. This pact of silence between the two leads into an obsession, and he becomes sweetly possessive over her. I actually love the book boyfriend that won’t take no for an answer when the female is reluctant but attracted. And she is. Her reluctance stems from her mother’s whoring and her older sister’s training (which brings a lot of questions into my head). I also love how he asks if she has protection.
This is a typical bully academy romance, but since I am infatuated with the genre, I don’t mind repeat themes. However, I do cringe if I read something like “The sigh as he releases it makes me want him more than I’ve ever wanted anything before.” More than I ever wanted before? Groan. Otherwise, the prose is good. For example: “Holding onto her is like clinging to a deflating life preserver. Instead of floating us to safety, we’re both about to drown.” Considering his line of work and his lack of morals, I was not sure if he would be redeemed or she would be brought into immorality.
The theme:
I didn't expect to download a mafia-flavored romance but decided not to return it. The theme brings it out of the smut or DNF category. My husband once said that we made each other better people, and marriage is the commitment to staying better people. Don't expect Lilac to stay lily-white, and don't expect Zach to become wholesome, but they do seem to complete each other. There is a HEA.
September 27, 2022
I found this book like ur typically bully romance u only read up to page 46 bc they started getting sexual too soon the story is that she shot her sisters rapist and her sister killed herself and she broke and somehow she goes to this expensive school and he is mafia hot grr rawr alpha scary 😦 and basically she shoots her sisters rapist and he pressures he to do it pretty cool right? But what comes next is ew she says she will always fight but the day after the guy comes into her room and she doesn’t question and his left hand is bleeding so she immediately helps him and than somehow he asks her why don’t u wear make up and she says she is too poor for make up,( like girl u can never be too poor for that it costs 1 or 2€\£ anyways weird than he tells her to get on her knees bc obvi he has imagined her you know and she DOES!!!! WHOTEOUTI GIVING A FIGHT bc he has the gun to which she shot the guy w but no I don’t like this book it’s like the guy is so obvi written from a woman point of view and this boook which there’s nothing wrong with but I find him Alpha and I don’t like alpha guys so I’m not sexist and I think this was a great book keep writing! You have many good reviews and I’m so glad ppl like books like these ) fun I used to also but not anymore bc aplpha guys are just so rawr grrr 🥺🥺anyways sending my lovee
July 13, 2023
I wanted to like this book more than I did and I feel like I am not going to be able to articulate clearly why I had issues with it. I read the sample before purchase and was intrigued by the situation and the characters' first meeting, but everything after the sample ended up being disappointing taken as a whole. The M/F romance lacked development (my common refrain) and the sex scenes were shortish and mostly boring (I did like the most DC/NC one, though it was too short too). The plot outside of the romance had some interesting ideas but again, though the book had a lot of words, none of it was really overly engaging or fleshing out the characters/scenes. I never felt any kind of brotherhood or camaraderie between the male lead and his friends/colleagues, like all of the other side characters they seemed like tokens to this story, and I'm not really interested enough in them to read their books. I do like the author's voice, the location outside of the US and appreciated there were only 10-15 errors, but I was underwhelmed, partly because I went into it with higher expectations than normal. I almost feel like if all of these plot ideas and characters/traits were fleshed out and re-tooled into a reverse harem, it would be more enjoyable, but that's just spitballing so I'll stop now.
September 5, 2022
So much going on in this story. This is the first story I have read from Layla Simon and I look forward to reading more from her. This is the story of Zach & Lilac. Zach works for the syndicate. Lilac is just a regular girl who is fighting to retain visitation of her younger sister. When Lilac loses her best friend Tessa because of something one of Zach’s friends did, she is out for revenge. Out for revenge, Zach ends up helping her out, but she must stay away from him. But what happens when they both end up at the same school?
Lots of drama, bullying, passion, secrets, deceptions, and romance. Add in a few twists and you won’t be able to put this down. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lots of drama, bullying, passion, secrets, deceptions, and romance. Add in a few twists and you won’t be able to put this down. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2024
Absolutely loved this book. Dark and delicious, it took me on a whirlwind of emotions and at times I didn't think I would finish it but I'm glad I did. Definitely recommend.
February 19, 2023
- Main Couple: Zach/Lilac
- POVs Included: Dual POV (Zach, Lilac)
Lilac is out for blood when her best friend kills herself over a video of her being date raped by a boy named Robbie. Lilac takes it upon herself to get revenge. But when she can’t pull the trigger, one of Robbie’s “friends” takes the gun and does what she couldn’t. After Robbie dies, Zach, Trent, and Caylon make Lilac promise to never cross their paths again. But when she ends up transferring to their school she has to figure out how to make them see they can trust her not to talk about what happened that night.
So this one was labeled as a “bully romance” and I picked it up because I enjoy a good bully or enemies to lovers romance. Strangely, I’m a big fan of arguing as a form of foreplay in dark romance. I just love the banter and such that goes along with it.
But I gotta say that this does not really read as a bully romance to me. Zach is pretty smitten with Lilac from the start, and even his “tests” for her aren’t really even that bad. You want a REAL bully romance? Check out Untouchable or Fear Me. Those are bully romances. This one doesn’t have very many bully elements to it. Basically from the beginning Zach and his friends are buddy-buddy with Lilac and become strangely protective of her being bullied by others in school.
I enjoyed the writing style though and it kept me pretty entertained. I thought Zach and Lilac were pretty cute. However…
The characters are where I have a problem. They are all so very inconsistent. When I’m reading a character I need to understand their motives and be able to at least somewhat predict what they will do because their core personality doesn’t change from scene to scene.
Let me give you some examples:
- Lilac is basically a fluid personality. The book even calls her out on this. In some scenes she is shy and timid and other scenes confident and a little bitchy. Some scenes she’s a sex vixen, others she’s an inexperienced virgin. I can’t get a handle on WHO she really is. Even now, I couldn’t tell you if she is more timid or more confident. It changes from scene to scene. I didn’t find her personality to be realistic, but rather altered to suit whatever scene we were in at the moment.
- Zach is very hot and cold at the start. He warms up quickly to Lilac but then pushes her away. He claims to want to use her but then he’s in love with her in the next scene. He seems so flakey.
- Caylon is the most confusing of all. I can’t even tell you if he’s a real friend or not in the end. It seemed like he betrayed a lot of people several times throughout the book, but then we are back to being friends with him in the end. So confused.
I also don’t understand the whole situation with the date rape drug thing. This was supposed to be a test that Zach would not touch her while she is out of it. But he strips her clothes off (because she was snoring?) and then jerks off and comes all over her. Sure, he doesn’t rape her, but he still violates her. But it’s cool, cause he didn’t stick it in? This whole situation was just too weird. I don’t find it realistic that she would forgive him for this. And I don’t even understand why he did it knowing he was being taped. Again, so confused.
So yeah, I’m a little confused by the characters and their actions are just not consistent. The writing style is good and flows well. But the characters need work.
I don’t think I’ll continue the series at this point.
- POVs Included: Dual POV (Zach, Lilac)
Lilac is out for blood when her best friend kills herself over a video of her being date raped by a boy named Robbie. Lilac takes it upon herself to get revenge. But when she can’t pull the trigger, one of Robbie’s “friends” takes the gun and does what she couldn’t. After Robbie dies, Zach, Trent, and Caylon make Lilac promise to never cross their paths again. But when she ends up transferring to their school she has to figure out how to make them see they can trust her not to talk about what happened that night.
So this one was labeled as a “bully romance” and I picked it up because I enjoy a good bully or enemies to lovers romance. Strangely, I’m a big fan of arguing as a form of foreplay in dark romance. I just love the banter and such that goes along with it.
But I gotta say that this does not really read as a bully romance to me. Zach is pretty smitten with Lilac from the start, and even his “tests” for her aren’t really even that bad. You want a REAL bully romance? Check out Untouchable or Fear Me. Those are bully romances. This one doesn’t have very many bully elements to it. Basically from the beginning Zach and his friends are buddy-buddy with Lilac and become strangely protective of her being bullied by others in school.
I enjoyed the writing style though and it kept me pretty entertained. I thought Zach and Lilac were pretty cute. However…
The characters are where I have a problem. They are all so very inconsistent. When I’m reading a character I need to understand their motives and be able to at least somewhat predict what they will do because their core personality doesn’t change from scene to scene.
Let me give you some examples:
- Lilac is basically a fluid personality. The book even calls her out on this. In some scenes she is shy and timid and other scenes confident and a little bitchy. Some scenes she’s a sex vixen, others she’s an inexperienced virgin. I can’t get a handle on WHO she really is. Even now, I couldn’t tell you if she is more timid or more confident. It changes from scene to scene. I didn’t find her personality to be realistic, but rather altered to suit whatever scene we were in at the moment.
- Zach is very hot and cold at the start. He warms up quickly to Lilac but then pushes her away. He claims to want to use her but then he’s in love with her in the next scene. He seems so flakey.
- Caylon is the most confusing of all. I can’t even tell you if he’s a real friend or not in the end. It seemed like he betrayed a lot of people several times throughout the book, but then we are back to being friends with him in the end. So confused.
I also don’t understand the whole situation with the date rape drug thing. This was supposed to be a test that Zach would not touch her while she is out of it. But he strips her clothes off (because she was snoring?) and then jerks off and comes all over her. Sure, he doesn’t rape her, but he still violates her. But it’s cool, cause he didn’t stick it in? This whole situation was just too weird. I don’t find it realistic that she would forgive him for this. And I don’t even understand why he did it knowing he was being taped. Again, so confused.
So yeah, I’m a little confused by the characters and their actions are just not consistent. The writing style is good and flows well. But the characters need work.
I don’t think I’ll continue the series at this point.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2024
was a good read. I didn’t love the tropes but maybe I’ll read the sequels about the other characters.
Zach’s character was dubious. But I didn’t get Caylon at all.
Zach’s character was dubious. But I didn’t get Caylon at all.
December 7, 2024
I've read some pretty juvenile sh*t in my long life but this takes the cake. This was BAD with all the capital letters. It was a porno wannabe. The hero and his friends talked and acted like twelve year old gangster wannabes. This dude let his friends see his girl naked. He had no backbone. No spine. No cunning. He was a straight up lowlife thug with no brains.
Then there's the heroine. She's one of the dumbest characters I've read about in a while. The way she was so blind about the hero f*ucking irked me. She was so quick to pass judgment on the fact that Robby drugged and rapid her girls but swept the hero's sings under the rug. I hated the pair of them.
The only saving grace of the book was Caylon. He was the only one with a modicum of sense.
#enemiestolovers #notworthyourtime #somnophilia
Then there's the heroine. She's one of the dumbest characters I've read about in a while. The way she was so blind about the hero f*ucking irked me. She was so quick to pass judgment on the fact that Robby drugged and rapid her girls but swept the hero's sings under the rug. I hated the pair of them.
The only saving grace of the book was Caylon. He was the only one with a modicum of sense.
#enemiestolovers #notworthyourtime #somnophilia
avoid
October 23, 2023Self note:
Apparently, in this book there's a smex-tape with the H drugging and fing OW.
h sees this tape and afterwards when he gives her water (obviously spiked), she says she forgives him
he later states this was a test to see how she reacted
No thanks
Apparently, in this book there's a smex-tape with the H drugging and fing OW.
h sees this tape and afterwards when he gives her water (obviously spiked), she says she forgives him
he later states this was a test to see how she reacted
No thanks
August 30, 2022
TW/CW: murder, talk of suicide, gun violence, violence, threats, rape/sexual assault, questionable consent, mentions of drug/alcohol abuse
I went round and round with what to rate this one. In the end, I landed on three stars. While I thought the plot had potential, I found the writing wasn't quite there. There were times the writing was a bit jumbled. There is also an issue (spoiler below) that kept me from even considering a higher rating. I've only included the spoiler review here. My other reviews on this book are spoiler-free.
I went round and round with what to rate this one. In the end, I landed on three stars. While I thought the plot had potential, I found the writing wasn't quite there. There were times the writing was a bit jumbled. There is also an issue (spoiler below) that kept me from even considering a higher rating. I've only included the spoiler review here. My other reviews on this book are spoiler-free.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2022
Layla Simon's first book is Pretty Cruel Boys. I was able to get an ARC of this and I really enjoyed it.
While in some ways this is your typical dark high school bully romance it had its own little twist that I enjoyed.
With a rich bad boy and a poor orphan with a bad reputation as our main characters, I'm sure there are some moments you will see coming. Even with some standard dark romance moments, this was a good story and I'll be looking forward to the other boys in this series getting their own stories.
The FMC, Lilac isn't some naive little girl, she's a fighter and struggling to find her own feet once she ages out of the system. The MMC Zach is a typical rich bad boy, he has his demons and his scars using those to keep everyone away. Lilac is a threat to him and he's determined to drive her away, but instead, he finds he can't stay away.
.
.
.
Lilac is out for revenge. She's already lost a lot in her life and one of the last people she had is now gone and it's all his fault. Her revenge doesn't come as easy as she thought and now she'll have that moment hanging over her head as a threat.
Zach didn't expect to walk in on the girl holding his problem at gunpoint. It turns out they have the same problem. Ending his 'friend' wasn't the plan but it's done now, letting Lilac go could go badly for him and the others but he's got the weapon and if she steps out of line she'll be the one who goes down for it.
Lilac is trying to get her life together. She has her own shared house now, a job, and the last high school that will take her. If she wants to get into Uni this has to work. But seeing Zach, Trent and Caylon she realizes that her new life is now on shaky ground.
Zach decides she has to go, but once faced with her again his plans shift. If she can follow their rules and pass their tests maybe she can stay.
Zach pushes Lilac right out of her comfort zone again and again and she begins to find herself falling for the dangerous rich boy. Every time she thinks they are finding their place in each other's lives the cracks that remain fracture more and more.
When Zach betrays her one time too many she'll have to decide if he fits in her life anymore or if she's better off alone again. The bigger problem is the past, as the group starts to implode a little at a time Lilac's revenge will haunt them.
Happy Reading.
While in some ways this is your typical dark high school bully romance it had its own little twist that I enjoyed.
With a rich bad boy and a poor orphan with a bad reputation as our main characters, I'm sure there are some moments you will see coming. Even with some standard dark romance moments, this was a good story and I'll be looking forward to the other boys in this series getting their own stories.
The FMC, Lilac isn't some naive little girl, she's a fighter and struggling to find her own feet once she ages out of the system. The MMC Zach is a typical rich bad boy, he has his demons and his scars using those to keep everyone away. Lilac is a threat to him and he's determined to drive her away, but instead, he finds he can't stay away.
.
.
.
Lilac is out for revenge. She's already lost a lot in her life and one of the last people she had is now gone and it's all his fault. Her revenge doesn't come as easy as she thought and now she'll have that moment hanging over her head as a threat.
Zach didn't expect to walk in on the girl holding his problem at gunpoint. It turns out they have the same problem. Ending his 'friend' wasn't the plan but it's done now, letting Lilac go could go badly for him and the others but he's got the weapon and if she steps out of line she'll be the one who goes down for it.
Lilac is trying to get her life together. She has her own shared house now, a job, and the last high school that will take her. If she wants to get into Uni this has to work. But seeing Zach, Trent and Caylon she realizes that her new life is now on shaky ground.
Zach decides she has to go, but once faced with her again his plans shift. If she can follow their rules and pass their tests maybe she can stay.
Zach pushes Lilac right out of her comfort zone again and again and she begins to find herself falling for the dangerous rich boy. Every time she thinks they are finding their place in each other's lives the cracks that remain fracture more and more.
When Zach betrays her one time too many she'll have to decide if he fits in her life anymore or if she's better off alone again. The bigger problem is the past, as the group starts to implode a little at a time Lilac's revenge will haunt them.
Happy Reading.
October 24, 2025
im in limbo with this book, as many of the other reviews state, the beginning is everything. However, the story overall story drags while the romance goes so quickly. I love me a bully romance honestly its one of my favorite tropes and I dont think this book really qualifies as one theres "favors" that have to be fulfilled but zach always makes sure it stays fully in his control so there isn't any angst to lilacs actions. along with her personality shes scared and meek than cam manipulate and gaslight someone, the filp flop is so extreme that it just seems like a plot device not that lilac actually has that charter depth and plays a role of either coy or manipulative. I do think this is more of an obsession trope, as at around the 20% mark, there's little bullying happening if not none in the first place other than Em. With that, let's get on a side character rant because maybe it's just me, but the relationship between our mcs and the side characters is just weird. Lilac specifically and her flatmates Finley and Rosa, I liked them a little but all their actions and lack of dept started to annoy me especially becayse rosa has her own book, they just had an odd relationship like yeah the girls you've never actually talked to are willing to show AND RECORD you learning how to give a bj to a toy like what 🤦♀️, im sorry but their whole relationship was whack and thats all im going to say. Okay, now onto Trent, and what's his face, I dont even really have anything to say the first intro to them, and their dynamic was fun and i could see myself wanting to read their books, but after that, it fell so flat. Trent personality just dissapered amd her turned into a glorified bodyguard. Now with the recording bit from earlier WHY DOES EVERYTHING HAVE TO BE RECORDED, and you may say ooh Trent likes that but stuff that doesn't even relate to Trent has this issue, like Finleys collection that shes recorded, maybe because im that girl whole fully believes that it will get leaked but they dont use that tension Lilac forgets about her video so quickly because shes "numb" when in my opinion that's when your freaking out because it may leak and you'll loose visiting rights. and the way the foster ppl called her right after like that should have you freaking out instead shes couldn't gaf.
anyways thank you for reading my rant, and honestly, I won't be continuing the series
anyways thank you for reading my rant, and honestly, I won't be continuing the series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2023
Rating: 💗💗💗
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶.25
Tropes: dark (lite) romance / bully-ish / high school / new adult romance / poor girl & rich boy / opposites attract / mafia vibes/ bad boy hero & girl from wrong side of the tracks / virgin heroine
The story follows Lilac (Lily) who's out for blood when her best friend kills herself after being date raped by a boy named Robbie, who formed part of a crew run by Zachariah (Zach). Lilac takes it upon herself to get revenge, but in the process finds herself in debt to Zach. I think any more information will ruin the story so I'll leave it at that.
I won't lie to you, I was pretty disappointed with this one. I absolutely love a dark and bully romance and the blurb sounded excellent. Unfortunately, neither trope was really prevalent here. Yes, it dealt with dark themes and there were aspects that were arguably bullying - but they were very weak, at best.
There are certain tropes that unfortunately can't be half-arsed. If you do them, they need to be done right. Together with mafia and childhood friends to lovers - these tropes are it. And unfortunately, for me, it felt very underdeveloped here.
Despite starting off so strong, the story fell more and more flat with each passing chapter. There was no build up or tension between the characters, so when they got together, I was very indifferent to it. I also felt that it was riddled with plot holes and character inconsistencies. One moment, Zach is super intimidating and the next he's the biggest simp - but we don't get to see that transition happen. Same goes for Lily. She's brave and courageous but then a shy and inexperienced virgin. The characters felt very confused to me.
Most importantly, I thought that the plot had so much potential but completely got lost in translation. Between the confusing plotline, inconsistent characters and poor pacing - I couldn't connect with the story or the characters.
It wasn't my personal cup of tea, but I will tell you that it was really beautifully written! So perhaps it's all entirely subjective and if the tropes speak to you, maybe give it a go and find out for yourself.
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶.25
Tropes: dark (lite) romance / bully-ish / high school / new adult romance / poor girl & rich boy / opposites attract / mafia vibes/ bad boy hero & girl from wrong side of the tracks / virgin heroine
The story follows Lilac (Lily) who's out for blood when her best friend kills herself after being date raped by a boy named Robbie, who formed part of a crew run by Zachariah (Zach). Lilac takes it upon herself to get revenge, but in the process finds herself in debt to Zach. I think any more information will ruin the story so I'll leave it at that.
I won't lie to you, I was pretty disappointed with this one. I absolutely love a dark and bully romance and the blurb sounded excellent. Unfortunately, neither trope was really prevalent here. Yes, it dealt with dark themes and there were aspects that were arguably bullying - but they were very weak, at best.
There are certain tropes that unfortunately can't be half-arsed. If you do them, they need to be done right. Together with mafia and childhood friends to lovers - these tropes are it. And unfortunately, for me, it felt very underdeveloped here.
Despite starting off so strong, the story fell more and more flat with each passing chapter. There was no build up or tension between the characters, so when they got together, I was very indifferent to it. I also felt that it was riddled with plot holes and character inconsistencies. One moment, Zach is super intimidating and the next he's the biggest simp - but we don't get to see that transition happen. Same goes for Lily. She's brave and courageous but then a shy and inexperienced virgin. The characters felt very confused to me.
Most importantly, I thought that the plot had so much potential but completely got lost in translation. Between the confusing plotline, inconsistent characters and poor pacing - I couldn't connect with the story or the characters.
It wasn't my personal cup of tea, but I will tell you that it was really beautifully written! So perhaps it's all entirely subjective and if the tropes speak to you, maybe give it a go and find out for yourself.
August 29, 2022
Pretty Cruel Boys is dark/bully/highschool romance.
SYNOPSIS
"Stay out of my way or I'll break you."
The warning couldn't be clearer. Zachariah Cameron may have the money of Midas, the face of an Instagram model, and a body that girls crave to touch, but he's also a bona fide psycho. Beating people as a job not because he needs the money (see above) but because he wants to. He likes it.
Nobody would be foolish enough to disobey his instructions.
Nobody…
Except me.
Because even though he holds the key to destroy my life, I must cross his path or risk losing my sister.
So I'll follow his new rules.
I'll obey his sick wishes.
I'll bend to his commands.
No matter where that leads.
He promised to let me go when he's done… but the longer I play his game the less I believe him. Because Zach always gets what he wants and this time?
What he wants is me.
REVIEW
This is a debut novel by Layla Simon and i was quite impressed and I am going to be looking forward to future books.
The story starts off on a dark theme, with Lilac, confronting the man who raped her foster sister, Tessa.
The confrontation leads to Zach intervening and warning her to stay away from him and his friends.
Everything is going well until she has to switch schools. Low and behold this is the same school the three guys attend.
Zach sets her up to complete 5 tasks. If she completes them, he wont use what he holds over her from the confrontation at the beginning, against her.
I love that even though some of the tasks he set her lead to her being hassled at school, she doesn't just sit back and take it and she can give back just as much as she takes. She is no pushover.
Zach and Lilac soon start to have more than feelings of hate for each other.
Lilac comes across initially as sweet and innocent (she is a virgin) but she has a past that she is not proud of, and wants to change so she can keep seeing her young sister, who is in foster care.
There is some other woman drama with his at the time girlfriend Em. Lilac refuses to have anything to do with him, while he is seeing her, so it is more jealousy on Em's part than anything else.
The only thing I didn't like, was that some of the story felt a little bit rushed in places. The book is 352 pages so I would have preferred that the bits that felt rushed to be a bit more fleshed out and have a longer book. This would have made for a 5 star read than than the 4 I gave it.
You do not get much backstory on Zach's two best friends Caylon and Trent but I'm over the moon they are getting their own books later this year.
Pretty Wicked Boys (Caylon) & Pretty Savage Boys (Trent).
I received this as an ARC from Booksirens for an honest review.
SYNOPSIS
"Stay out of my way or I'll break you."
The warning couldn't be clearer. Zachariah Cameron may have the money of Midas, the face of an Instagram model, and a body that girls crave to touch, but he's also a bona fide psycho. Beating people as a job not because he needs the money (see above) but because he wants to. He likes it.
Nobody would be foolish enough to disobey his instructions.
Nobody…
Except me.
Because even though he holds the key to destroy my life, I must cross his path or risk losing my sister.
So I'll follow his new rules.
I'll obey his sick wishes.
I'll bend to his commands.
No matter where that leads.
He promised to let me go when he's done… but the longer I play his game the less I believe him. Because Zach always gets what he wants and this time?
What he wants is me.
REVIEW
This is a debut novel by Layla Simon and i was quite impressed and I am going to be looking forward to future books.
The story starts off on a dark theme, with Lilac, confronting the man who raped her foster sister, Tessa.
The confrontation leads to Zach intervening and warning her to stay away from him and his friends.
Everything is going well until she has to switch schools. Low and behold this is the same school the three guys attend.
Zach sets her up to complete 5 tasks. If she completes them, he wont use what he holds over her from the confrontation at the beginning, against her.
I love that even though some of the tasks he set her lead to her being hassled at school, she doesn't just sit back and take it and she can give back just as much as she takes. She is no pushover.
Zach and Lilac soon start to have more than feelings of hate for each other.
Lilac comes across initially as sweet and innocent (she is a virgin) but she has a past that she is not proud of, and wants to change so she can keep seeing her young sister, who is in foster care.
There is some other woman drama with his at the time girlfriend Em. Lilac refuses to have anything to do with him, while he is seeing her, so it is more jealousy on Em's part than anything else.
The only thing I didn't like, was that some of the story felt a little bit rushed in places. The book is 352 pages so I would have preferred that the bits that felt rushed to be a bit more fleshed out and have a longer book. This would have made for a 5 star read than than the 4 I gave it.
You do not get much backstory on Zach's two best friends Caylon and Trent but I'm over the moon they are getting their own books later this year.
Pretty Wicked Boys (Caylon) & Pretty Savage Boys (Trent).
I received this as an ARC from Booksirens for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2022
Not for me.
The story starts with a strong prologue but is downhill from there. The FC is desperate to get her life on track and retain connection with her sister who is in the foster system. The MC blackmails the FC into doing certain "tasks" otherwise he will disclose something that happened in the past. As mentioned by previous reviewers, the tasks are low level, lack imagination and seem pointless. The foundation of the blackmail also seems rocky in that any disclosure by the MC would also impact the MCs as much as the FC so why she goes ahead with them is beyond me.
I could not connect with any of the MCs but especially Zach. Each seemed perverted and just disturbed. He was not strong or broken, he was just creepy and dysfunctional. The fact that he allowed pictures of the FC to be viewed by others and for his friends to use them to get off on were just disgusting. The unveiling of the fact that the MC's kink is that he gets off on having women incapacitated when he has sex with them is also irredeemable in my view. The author tried to dress this up by emphasizing that the females all agreed to being drugged before allowing him to do what he wanted but honestly, it is hard to believe that any women would allow that. The fact that the FC also seems to forgive the MC and not have an issue with his behaviour made it hard for me to find any connection with the FC.
Overall not for me. I find it concerning when these NA books aimed at young women contain these types of themes and seek to make the behaviour acceptable or romantic as its not either.
The story starts with a strong prologue but is downhill from there. The FC is desperate to get her life on track and retain connection with her sister who is in the foster system. The MC blackmails the FC into doing certain "tasks" otherwise he will disclose something that happened in the past. As mentioned by previous reviewers, the tasks are low level, lack imagination and seem pointless. The foundation of the blackmail also seems rocky in that any disclosure by the MC would also impact the MCs as much as the FC so why she goes ahead with them is beyond me.
I could not connect with any of the MCs but especially Zach. Each seemed perverted and just disturbed. He was not strong or broken, he was just creepy and dysfunctional. The fact that he allowed pictures of the FC to be viewed by others and for his friends to use them to get off on were just disgusting. The unveiling of the fact that the MC's kink is that he gets off on having women incapacitated when he has sex with them is also irredeemable in my view. The author tried to dress this up by emphasizing that the females all agreed to being drugged before allowing him to do what he wanted but honestly, it is hard to believe that any women would allow that. The fact that the FC also seems to forgive the MC and not have an issue with his behaviour made it hard for me to find any connection with the FC.
Overall not for me. I find it concerning when these NA books aimed at young women contain these types of themes and seek to make the behaviour acceptable or romantic as its not either.
June 12, 2023
Layla does such a good job with giving us these morally grey men that you should hate for how they treat our fmc's but you just can't for numerous reasons. This is a dark high school bully romance which means always check trigger warnings before reading. Because things get really dark!
Lily gets caught doing something very bad by Zach and his friends. So Zach takes advantage of this by making lily do all kinds of things for and to him and his friends, what he didn't take into account was Lily actually doing all of it and not being afraid of them.
Yet again Layla gave me a guy that i have a hate/love relationship with. Zach has his own demons from the past that shaped him, he just needed the right girl to understand him, be patient with him and make him see the errors of his ways. And Lily didn't dissapoint OMG This woman is so strong, so resilient and she did it on her own. I thought so many times how is she so strong, why isn't she quitting, she has a goal in mind and she goes for it! They fit so well together, how they helped eachother even tho they didn't even know it.
I really loved this book, i am a lifelong fan of Layla Simon, no matter what she writes, i will buy it, Her characters, her writing style, the character growth, how she can make you feel part of these characters lives, everything combined makes these books just absolute fire! I can't wait to read about the other guys.
Lily gets caught doing something very bad by Zach and his friends. So Zach takes advantage of this by making lily do all kinds of things for and to him and his friends, what he didn't take into account was Lily actually doing all of it and not being afraid of them.
Yet again Layla gave me a guy that i have a hate/love relationship with. Zach has his own demons from the past that shaped him, he just needed the right girl to understand him, be patient with him and make him see the errors of his ways. And Lily didn't dissapoint OMG This woman is so strong, so resilient and she did it on her own. I thought so many times how is she so strong, why isn't she quitting, she has a goal in mind and she goes for it! They fit so well together, how they helped eachother even tho they didn't even know it.
I really loved this book, i am a lifelong fan of Layla Simon, no matter what she writes, i will buy it, Her characters, her writing style, the character growth, how she can make you feel part of these characters lives, everything combined makes these books just absolute fire! I can't wait to read about the other guys.
January 4, 2025
I don’t know. Hab so schnell das Interesse verloren.
Liliac beschließt sich am R*pist ihrer Freundin zu rächen, nachdem diese sich umgebracht hat. Als sie Robbie abpasst und die Sache beenden will, tauchen Robbies Freunde auf. Doch zu Liliacs Überraschung sind diese genauso von Robbie schockiert, wie sie.
Als Zach den Abzug betätigt und Robbies Leben aus seinem Körper weicht, gibt Zach Lily eine Anweisung. Sie hat zu schweigen, sonst geht die Waffe mit ihren Fingerabdrücken darauf direkt zu Polizei. Außerdem hat sie sich von den drei Freunden fernzuhalten. Nach diesem Abend werden sie sich nie wieder sehen.
Bis alles anders kommt…
Die Prämisse war ganz gut. Auch die 5 Aufgaben, die Lily erfüllen muss, war an sich ganz interessant. Bei über der Hälfte, hab ich dann aber irgendwie den Anschluss verloren.
Zach und Lilys Beziehung ist einfach weird und kommt extrem plötzlich.
Insgesamt gabs fragwürdige Stellen. Mein Highlight war Aufgabe 5 als Clayton fordert, dass Lily einen Cocktail aus K.O. Tropfen trinkt, weil das so ein Ding von Zack ist Frauen consensual zu betäuben. Am Ende fordert Lily, dass alles gefilmt wird und was soll ich sagen. Wie kommt man bitte darauf, das der MM sie dann ausziehen und auch einen auf sie runterholt „aber das war’s dann auch“
Hää? Wie kann man das ok finden, wenn sie explizit keine Consent gibt, bevor sie das Bewusstsein verliert?
SMUT: 🌶️
Liliac beschließt sich am R*pist ihrer Freundin zu rächen, nachdem diese sich umgebracht hat. Als sie Robbie abpasst und die Sache beenden will, tauchen Robbies Freunde auf. Doch zu Liliacs Überraschung sind diese genauso von Robbie schockiert, wie sie.
Als Zach den Abzug betätigt und Robbies Leben aus seinem Körper weicht, gibt Zach Lily eine Anweisung. Sie hat zu schweigen, sonst geht die Waffe mit ihren Fingerabdrücken darauf direkt zu Polizei. Außerdem hat sie sich von den drei Freunden fernzuhalten. Nach diesem Abend werden sie sich nie wieder sehen.
Bis alles anders kommt…
Die Prämisse war ganz gut. Auch die 5 Aufgaben, die Lily erfüllen muss, war an sich ganz interessant. Bei über der Hälfte, hab ich dann aber irgendwie den Anschluss verloren.
Zach und Lilys Beziehung ist einfach weird und kommt extrem plötzlich.
Insgesamt gabs fragwürdige Stellen. Mein Highlight war Aufgabe 5 als Clayton fordert, dass Lily einen Cocktail aus K.O. Tropfen trinkt, weil das so ein Ding von Zack ist Frauen consensual zu betäuben. Am Ende fordert Lily, dass alles gefilmt wird und was soll ich sagen. Wie kommt man bitte darauf, das der MM sie dann ausziehen und auch einen auf sie runterholt „aber das war’s dann auch“
Hää? Wie kann man das ok finden, wenn sie explizit keine Consent gibt, bevor sie das Bewusstsein verliert?
SMUT: 🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2022
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥.5/5
Multiple Triggers
Dual POV
Lilac (FMC) has lived the rough life being dealt one traumatic incident after another. But she is a fighter and does what she needs to do to get her to a place not just for her but for her sister. But one night and one situation puts her future in the hands of one rich bad boy.
Zach the alpha rich bad boy never expected to meet Lilac in a warehouse one night. But that night changed things and he gave her one simple rule to stay away from him and his friends.
Only sometimes rules have to broken and that's the case for Lilac when she walks into her new school only to find Zach there.
While I enjoyed the plot of the story I just felt like something was missing. It might be that I thought the bullying would be a little more or it just wasn't as dark as I was preparing myself for.
I did enjoy the characters and after a couple of chapters I was able to get into the story and enjoy it. I can definitely see the Potential in the series and will give the other books a try.
ARC was provided for a honest review.
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥.5/5
Multiple Triggers
Dual POV
Lilac (FMC) has lived the rough life being dealt one traumatic incident after another. But she is a fighter and does what she needs to do to get her to a place not just for her but for her sister. But one night and one situation puts her future in the hands of one rich bad boy.
Zach the alpha rich bad boy never expected to meet Lilac in a warehouse one night. But that night changed things and he gave her one simple rule to stay away from him and his friends.
Only sometimes rules have to broken and that's the case for Lilac when she walks into her new school only to find Zach there.
While I enjoyed the plot of the story I just felt like something was missing. It might be that I thought the bullying would be a little more or it just wasn't as dark as I was preparing myself for.
I did enjoy the characters and after a couple of chapters I was able to get into the story and enjoy it. I can definitely see the Potential in the series and will give the other books a try.
ARC was provided for a honest review.
September 17, 2022
two-star book spoiler alert
I was not impressed with the storyline. I was not too fond of the leading male character. Zach has control issues and not liking when other people or girlfriends touch him. His dislike is so intense that he has to drug his partners with the rape drug. He prefers having sex with an unconscious girlfriend to avoid being touched; it is too creepy and borderline criminal. I had to skim through the book. The leading female character was, at times, gullible and a little annoying. Lilac, at the beginning of the book, was determined to obtain an academic education; however, then, she gives it up, becoming a high school dropout. At the end of the book, she chooses to become involved with the syndicate/mafia, then finish school and attend university. What kind of future is that? I liked the dynamics of her roommates, Rosa and Finley. The trait that I mostly liked about Lilac was her protectiveness toward her baby sister. However, Zach, although all the negative factors that the author pens, somehow becomes redeemable by trying to be a better boyfriend to Lilac. I am not interested in the series. I will not read the following book.
I was not impressed with the storyline. I was not too fond of the leading male character. Zach has control issues and not liking when other people or girlfriends touch him. His dislike is so intense that he has to drug his partners with the rape drug. He prefers having sex with an unconscious girlfriend to avoid being touched; it is too creepy and borderline criminal. I had to skim through the book. The leading female character was, at times, gullible and a little annoying. Lilac, at the beginning of the book, was determined to obtain an academic education; however, then, she gives it up, becoming a high school dropout. At the end of the book, she chooses to become involved with the syndicate/mafia, then finish school and attend university. What kind of future is that? I liked the dynamics of her roommates, Rosa and Finley. The trait that I mostly liked about Lilac was her protectiveness toward her baby sister. However, Zach, although all the negative factors that the author pens, somehow becomes redeemable by trying to be a better boyfriend to Lilac. I am not interested in the series. I will not read the following book.
June 15, 2023
§.•´¨'°÷•..×𝙿𝚛𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚢 𝙲𝚛𝚞𝚎𝚕 𝙱𝚘𝚢𝚜×,.•´¨'°÷•..§
𝚋𝚢 𝙻𝚊𝚢𝚕𝚊 𝚂𝚒𝚖𝚘𝚗
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
4/5
❗️I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily❗️
❌check trigger warnings
This is the 1st book in the 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐜𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐳𝐢𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬. I discovered Layla this year, and this is now my third book by her. I haven’t read a book by her, that I didn’t enjoy.
This story starts right going from the start with a bang, with Lilac losing her foster sister over something that was done to her. Lilac meet Zach at an unexpected place in the beginning of the story, where she’s trying to get revenge on one of Zach’s friends. I won’t give it away, but I enjoyed how quickly this story got going. A week after the explosive start. Lilac starts a new school, not long after this all happens. There Lilac meets Zach again.
From Zach’s point of view, we find out Zach new what his friend was going to do, but he didn’t agree with it. Zach ends up helping Lilac try to get her revenge…..
This story had twists and turns I didn’t see.
.
Includes
- bully romance
- Dark high school romance
- Morally gray mmc
- Strong fmc
- Dual pov
- Spicy
- HEA
𝚋𝚢 𝙻𝚊𝚢𝚕𝚊 𝚂𝚒𝚖𝚘𝚗
❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
4/5
❗️I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily❗️
❌check trigger warnings
This is the 1st book in the 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐜𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐳𝐢𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬. I discovered Layla this year, and this is now my third book by her. I haven’t read a book by her, that I didn’t enjoy.
This story starts right going from the start with a bang, with Lilac losing her foster sister over something that was done to her. Lilac meet Zach at an unexpected place in the beginning of the story, where she’s trying to get revenge on one of Zach’s friends. I won’t give it away, but I enjoyed how quickly this story got going. A week after the explosive start. Lilac starts a new school, not long after this all happens. There Lilac meets Zach again.
From Zach’s point of view, we find out Zach new what his friend was going to do, but he didn’t agree with it. Zach ends up helping Lilac try to get her revenge…..
This story had twists and turns I didn’t see.
.
Includes
- bully romance
- Dark high school romance
- Morally gray mmc
- Strong fmc
- Dual pov
- Spicy
- HEA
January 3, 2024
I have given this book 3* despite not finishing.
I like the characters zach is definitely someone that checks off the criteria for making it to my book Boyfriend list and lilac is a strong female lead (mostly) I enjoyed reading the first quarter of this book, the story and characters having been written well, unfortunately it was also about that point that I started to loose interest. I am in no way saying this is not a good hook just that it wasn't for me in the end.
I was gripped from the very start, the opening being really intense and full of drama but the dynamic between the characters changed rather quickly and it no longer felt like I was reading a darknrkmance or even a bully romance and with the title that is what I was expecting.
It started off really strong but unfortunately there wasn't enough taking place between the characters aside from a lot of smut to keep me engaged in the story.
But I have give 3* because I really enjoyed the start and I fully intend to go back and finish the book at a later date, I'm just not able to continue with it now. X
I like the characters zach is definitely someone that checks off the criteria for making it to my book Boyfriend list and lilac is a strong female lead (mostly) I enjoyed reading the first quarter of this book, the story and characters having been written well, unfortunately it was also about that point that I started to loose interest. I am in no way saying this is not a good hook just that it wasn't for me in the end.
I was gripped from the very start, the opening being really intense and full of drama but the dynamic between the characters changed rather quickly and it no longer felt like I was reading a darknrkmance or even a bully romance and with the title that is what I was expecting.
It started off really strong but unfortunately there wasn't enough taking place between the characters aside from a lot of smut to keep me engaged in the story.
But I have give 3* because I really enjoyed the start and I fully intend to go back and finish the book at a later date, I'm just not able to continue with it now. X
August 24, 2024
Lilac (Lilly) & Zach
The story is kind of messy and all over the place.
Lilac is introduced as a bad girl, who does bad things, but when facing even worse guys, she's forced to lay low.
When chance puts them in the same high school, she's suddenly too timid, and too submissive and docile to fight them off. Ok, they do hold something over her had, but I expected more from her. When I finally accepted that she wasn't going anywhere, she'd pull out her claws again, out of nowhere.
Zach is supposed to be the big bad bully here, but his bullying is clouded when all he wants to do is pamper Lilac, and protect her and do good by her. He tries to be manipulative, but even that is not really successful. His indiscretions are eventually pointed out, but by them him and Lilac are so deeply into each other, that it doesn't really stick.
And then there are the side characters, whose actions are not in conformity to who they are painted to be.
I don't wanna say to much and spoil the story, but my overall opinion is that it was just messy.
The story is kind of messy and all over the place.
Lilac is introduced as a bad girl, who does bad things, but when facing even worse guys, she's forced to lay low.
When chance puts them in the same high school, she's suddenly too timid, and too submissive and docile to fight them off. Ok, they do hold something over her had, but I expected more from her. When I finally accepted that she wasn't going anywhere, she'd pull out her claws again, out of nowhere.
Zach is supposed to be the big bad bully here, but his bullying is clouded when all he wants to do is pamper Lilac, and protect her and do good by her. He tries to be manipulative, but even that is not really successful. His indiscretions are eventually pointed out, but by them him and Lilac are so deeply into each other, that it doesn't really stick.
And then there are the side characters, whose actions are not in conformity to who they are painted to be.
I don't wanna say to much and spoil the story, but my overall opinion is that it was just messy.
January 2, 2023
This book is not for the faint hearted, that said, it is a very good book.
Em, as she said is not a nice girl, but after reading the book, that is partially down to her trauma. She has had to become hard to protect herself. For those people she care about, she loves deeply. For the people that hurt her, she never truly forgives them. She is a complex character.
Caylon has friends but is lonely. He never forgave himself over what happened to Robbie. He has always wanted Em but never let himself think about it. As soon as he decides, then he has a one-track mind. Much like Em, he is not a simple character, but one that has many layers and you have to dig deep to find the real Caylon.
This is a great book, that discusses many hard-hitting issues.
As soon as you start reading it you get sucked into this world and you won’t stop read until it ends.
It is worth a read, you won’t be disappointed.
Em, as she said is not a nice girl, but after reading the book, that is partially down to her trauma. She has had to become hard to protect herself. For those people she care about, she loves deeply. For the people that hurt her, she never truly forgives them. She is a complex character.
Caylon has friends but is lonely. He never forgave himself over what happened to Robbie. He has always wanted Em but never let himself think about it. As soon as he decides, then he has a one-track mind. Much like Em, he is not a simple character, but one that has many layers and you have to dig deep to find the real Caylon.
This is a great book, that discusses many hard-hitting issues.
As soon as you start reading it you get sucked into this world and you won’t stop read until it ends.
It is worth a read, you won’t be disappointed.
December 12, 2023
It was ok until chapter 15 (there are 36 chapters) and then the book turned into a batshit soap opera.
The two main characters had these 180 personality changes at the worst moments. One moment they were acting like normal 18 years old, the other they change into 40 years old mean businessmen. Made no sense.
I still don't get why Caylon said all these things to Lilac or why Lilac was ok taking her sister from her foster mom who was nice to her (like she actually called her mom).
I won't even talk about Sierra, the 9 years old girl, who is capable to go on the dark web and hire people to beat up one of her bullies. Like come on.
The book ends with Lilac dropping out of high school to work for Zach's boss (Zach is in the mafia for no reason and the mafia has actually not a single purpose in this book) and she's engaged. That's it, that's her big life.
I won't continue this series, specially knowing the next book is about the mean girl in this one.
The two main characters had these 180 personality changes at the worst moments. One moment they were acting like normal 18 years old, the other they change into 40 years old mean businessmen. Made no sense.
I still don't get why Caylon said all these things to Lilac or why Lilac was ok taking her sister from her foster mom who was nice to her (like she actually called her mom).
I won't even talk about Sierra, the 9 years old girl, who is capable to go on the dark web and hire people to beat up one of her bullies. Like come on.
The book ends with Lilac dropping out of high school to work for Zach's boss (Zach is in the mafia for no reason and the mafia has actually not a single purpose in this book) and she's engaged. That's it, that's her big life.
I won't continue this series, specially knowing the next book is about the mean girl in this one.
February 5, 2024
Fabulous 3.5 star read!!
This one was another I zipped through in a day as I was captivated!! The H started out as a BDE BOSS of an Alpha then tapered off as the story progressed. Our h had literally the opposite effect so they balanced each other out!
It got a bit bogged down at time but rallied in the end each time. I didn’t like the loyalty issues with one of the so called friends and didn’t understand that dynamic, at all.
This story took us on a journey starting with blackmail and that set the pace for the rest. There was good drama, loyalty, TRIGGERS, smëxy scenes were pretty darned good, betrayal and forgiveness. It had a little bit of this and a little bit of that to round out a great story.
As before, a few loose ends but hopefully those will be tied up in the course of the next two books.
All in all, a fun read that kept my attention and I was able to gobble it up post haste!
This one was another I zipped through in a day as I was captivated!! The H started out as a BDE BOSS of an Alpha then tapered off as the story progressed. Our h had literally the opposite effect so they balanced each other out!
It got a bit bogged down at time but rallied in the end each time. I didn’t like the loyalty issues with one of the so called friends and didn’t understand that dynamic, at all.
This story took us on a journey starting with blackmail and that set the pace for the rest. There was good drama, loyalty, TRIGGERS, smëxy scenes were pretty darned good, betrayal and forgiveness. It had a little bit of this and a little bit of that to round out a great story.
As before, a few loose ends but hopefully those will be tied up in the course of the next two books.
All in all, a fun read that kept my attention and I was able to gobble it up post haste!
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