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St. Mary's #1
Good Girls Never Rise
Gemma:
We were from two completely different worlds that couldn’t have been more opposite. Fate brought us together, and we devised a plan. I was to leave St. Mary’s Boarding School, and he was to stay.
I was molded to follow the rules, and he was taught to break them. But somewhere along the way, following the rules became a choice. The lines became blurred. The good girl of St. Mary’s suddenly got a taste of rebellion, and he came in a package of wild blue eyes and hot, lingering touches.
Isaiah warned me that we’d go up in flames if we veered from our plan.
Except, there was no we about it.
Isaiah Underwood let me fall right into the ashes.
Good Girls Never Rise is book one in the St. Mary's Duet and ends on a cliffhanger. Good Girls Never Rise is intended for readers 18+ and deals with subjects that some may find triggering.
We were from two completely different worlds that couldn’t have been more opposite. Fate brought us together, and we devised a plan. I was to leave St. Mary’s Boarding School, and he was to stay.
I was molded to follow the rules, and he was taught to break them. But somewhere along the way, following the rules became a choice. The lines became blurred. The good girl of St. Mary’s suddenly got a taste of rebellion, and he came in a package of wild blue eyes and hot, lingering touches.
Isaiah warned me that we’d go up in flames if we veered from our plan.
Except, there was no we about it.
Isaiah Underwood let me fall right into the ashes.
Good Girls Never Rise is book one in the St. Mary's Duet and ends on a cliffhanger. Good Girls Never Rise is intended for readers 18+ and deals with subjects that some may find triggering.
514 pages, Paperback
Published April 11, 2022
1069 people are currently reading
8877 people want to read
About the author
S.J. Sylvis
30 books2,687 followersS.J. Sylvis is an Amazon top 50 and USA Today bestselling author who is best known for her angsty new adult romances and romantic comedies. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband, two small kiddos, and dog. She is obsessed with coffee, becomes easily attached to fictional characters, and spends most of her evenings buried in a book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 545 reviews
November 18, 2021
dnf @ 50%
I couldn’t connect with the writing bye😭
I couldn’t connect with the writing bye😭
September 11, 2022
[ 3.75 stars ]
“We’re going to go up in flames, you and I. You know that, right? This…”—he pointed at me and then to him—“is…different.”
well...that lived up
"Dark Boarding School Romance" me: TAKE ALL MY MONEY
➣ The Story: Gemma is sent to St Marys afterbeing held hostage living with her "uncle" for seventeen years. She soon meets Isaiah who is allegedly the school, bAd BoY and also the leader of "the rebels" (because what's a dark romance without the group of misogynistic boys?). they start a mutual friendship as a way to prevent Isaiah from getting expelled and gemma's way of escaping her "uncle", and they slowly start catching feelings for each other. There were so many cute moments between them and the tension was immaculate but OF COURSE, gemma's mysterious past and Isaiah's dad's business have to come in the way.
➣ characters:from the prologue you can tell gemma has gone through it (check tws) so I wasn't really surprised when she came off as quiet and closed off but it's so worth it because her character development is just perfect
Isaiah is whipped. SO. WHIPPED. AND A HARRY POTTER STAN HELLO??
if that didn't convince you
Sloane is the kind of best friend I needed in high school
➣ things I didn't like: My mouth was like a speed boat, zipping through choppy waves, plowing down every single red light that my brain was throwing out. *sigh* I understand creativity and the use of metaphors but PLEASE don't do whatever this is because wtf?
Isaiah constantly using the name "good girl" no. jail. a big fat ick.
THE MOTHERFUCKING CLIFFHANGER I'M SORRY WHAT?//??///?/
I'm 10% into the second book now and I can confirm that Isaiah is back on my hit list😍🔪
so many theories and predictions AHHJSJH
ANYWAYS
out of all the boarding school romances I have read this is definitely my number one :)
read if you want:
➣ good girl x bad boy
➣ mystery
➣ boarding school
➣ dark academia (kind of ?)
➣ opposites attract
well. That’s all I have folks! enjoy my half assed review thank you for reading <3
“But hey, we were all a little fucked up at St. Mary’s.”
trigger warnings : sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, pedophilia, blood, guns, self-harm, suicide (descriptive)
let me know if I missed anything please thank you <3
“We’re going to go up in flames, you and I. You know that, right? This…”—he pointed at me and then to him—“is…different.”
well...that lived up
"Dark Boarding School Romance" me: TAKE ALL MY MONEY
➣ The Story: Gemma is sent to St Marys after
➣ characters:from the prologue you can tell gemma has gone through it (check tws) so I wasn't really surprised when she came off as quiet and closed off but it's so worth it because her character development is just perfect
“Well, maybe I’m not a good girl, Isaiah.”
Isaiah is whipped. SO. WHIPPED. AND A HARRY POTTER STAN HELLO??
Kissing her was like a gift. Or maybe it was a punishment. Either way, I didn’t care. I’d kiss her every day until I no longer could. And then, I’d find a way to keep her. I’d find her one way or another and make her mine again.
if that didn't convince you
“Does it scare you when I say things like that? Because if there is anything I’m willing to give up my humanity for, it may be you.”
“You have no idea, do you?” he asked, peering down at me with an awed look in his eye. His hand clamped on my chin, and his thumb brushed over my lip, making my body tighten in the most delicious of ways. “You scare me, Gemma Richardson. You scare the shit out of me.”
Sloane is the kind of best friend I needed in high school
“High school is hard. Especially this one since we can’t even escape all the bullshit.” She laughed under her breath. “So, I’m being a good friend and lying here with you as we watch some cheesy movie on Netflix.”😭😭
➣ things I didn't like: My mouth was like a speed boat, zipping through choppy waves, plowing down every single red light that my brain was throwing out. *sigh* I understand creativity and the use of metaphors but PLEASE don't do whatever this is because wtf?
Isaiah constantly using the name "good girl" no. jail. a big fat ick.
THE MOTHERFUCKING CLIFFHANGER I'M SORRY WHAT?//??///?/
I'm 10% into the second book now and I can confirm that Isaiah is back on my hit list😍🔪
so many theories and predictions AHHJSJH
ANYWAYS
out of all the boarding school romances I have read this is definitely my number one :)
read if you want:
➣ good girl x bad boy
➣ mystery
➣ boarding school
➣ dark academia (kind of ?)
➣ opposites attract
well. That’s all I have folks! enjoy my half assed review thank you for reading <3
“But hey, we were all a little fucked up at St. Mary’s.”
trigger warnings : sexual abuse, rape, sexual assault, pedophilia, blood, guns, self-harm, suicide (descriptive)
let me know if I missed anything please thank you <3
March 15, 2022
so over the trope where the girl realises she has balls only when the dude is around like bestie no I’m done with cliches
December 4, 2021
‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾☆ 4.45 stars ☆☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙
“Good girls who listen to others and follow all the rules never rise to the top, so I was done being good.”
damnnnnn this was good!!! I do agree that this is the best book Sammi has written so far!!!
I’m gonna be honest, I was hesitant to start this, because of the teasers. They said stuff like “good girl” and that phrase has been ruined for me since THAT movie 👀👀 But once I started the book and contextualized, it didn’t bother me!! which was nice.
TROPES:
✨bad boy/good girl
✨slow burn
✨kinda forbidden (just a bit)
✨dark academia vibes
✨artistic h/athletic H
*NOTE: it ends on a cliffhanger. This is a duet. There’s a third book announced, but it’s a standalone.*
╰┈➤the story:
Gemma after being 17 years under the tutelage of her abusing uncle, is sent to St. Mary’s Boarding School which is supposed to be super strict. She then meets Isaiah who is the school’s “bad boy” and leader of the “Rebels”. They control the school, kinda. They start a tentative friendship as a way to help Isaiah to not get expelled and in trouble with his dad. They develop feelings, though. And things get a bit complicated. The big threat is Gemma’s uncle and Isaiah’s dad business, which can ruin them both if they ever find out about them. It has a bit of mystery, cause Gemma’s past is a big question mark and because there’s something else going on than what we can see.
SO, my thoughts:
I was sucked into this world almost immediately. It was very atmospheric and had that dark academia vibe. The book itself isn’t dark, but it deals with heavy subjects. Which aren’t even detailed as we only see small flashbacks.
Gemma frustrated me a little in the beginning, cause she didn’t talk in front of Isaiah, I think the first complete conversation they had was at the 50% mark or something. She became speechless and took forever to answer back (unless she talked back, which usually was a small sentence here or there). It was understandable, with what we know about her, but frustrating nonetheless. I wanted to smack her at the end, but I’m glad she is self-aware about how STUPID she was there. She grew a little during the book, though. Which I loved. She started to have a bit of independence and to know herself, which I LOVED.
“Richard said good girls didn’t break rules, but he could watch me break each and every one.”
Isaiah was a fave. He is so much more than the “bad boy” who only cares about himself. We know a bit more about him and I adored him. It was adorable watching him deny his feeling when we ALL knew he was already obsessed with Gemma.
“If she cried, I would rip apart every building, every person, every last living thing on this earth until I make her tears disappear. I’d tear down the Covens, brick by brick, person by person, to find her brother if that made her happy. If that meant she could stay.”
I loved how he didn’t want to control her, he was protective and possessive, yes. But he LOVED watching Gem stand her ground and be strong by herself. UGH. i loved him.
“Kissing her was like a gift. Or maybe it was a punishment.
Either way, I didn’t care. I’d kiss her every day until I no longer could. And then, I’d find a way to keep her. I’d find her one way or another and make her mine again.”
I loved the Headmaster and Sloane. My heart BROKE when Isaiah had the suspicion of where Tobias might be. I don’t even know him and I’m sad for him😭😭
Why not five stars?
I wanted more on the school side. It’s like there aren’t any students. We only learn like 3 names of students which is unrealistic. I wanted more bonding time with Sloane and Mercedes. Cause they suddenly were besties, but we didn’t see that. The Rebels were more present, but even then I needed more group scenes. I live for that shit, so I was a bit let down.
I have A LOT of suspicions of what’s to come and I’m super excited. With Tobias location, Isaiah’s dad business, Journey’s mystery and Gemma’s past. There’s A LOT of thing that could happen and I can’t wait for Dec 2nd!!!
“But hey, we were all a little fucked up at St. Mary’s.”
“Good girls who listen to others and follow all the rules never rise to the top, so I was done being good.”
damnnnnn this was good!!! I do agree that this is the best book Sammi has written so far!!!
I’m gonna be honest, I was hesitant to start this, because of the teasers. They said stuff like “good girl” and that phrase has been ruined for me since THAT movie 👀👀 But once I started the book and contextualized, it didn’t bother me!! which was nice.
TROPES:
✨bad boy/good girl
✨slow burn
✨kinda forbidden (just a bit)
✨dark academia vibes
✨artistic h/athletic H
*NOTE: it ends on a cliffhanger. This is a duet. There’s a third book announced, but it’s a standalone.*
╰┈➤the story:
Gemma after being 17 years under the tutelage of her abusing uncle, is sent to St. Mary’s Boarding School which is supposed to be super strict. She then meets Isaiah who is the school’s “bad boy” and leader of the “Rebels”. They control the school, kinda. They start a tentative friendship as a way to help Isaiah to not get expelled and in trouble with his dad. They develop feelings, though. And things get a bit complicated. The big threat is Gemma’s uncle and Isaiah’s dad business, which can ruin them both if they ever find out about them. It has a bit of mystery, cause Gemma’s past is a big question mark and because there’s something else going on than what we can see.
SO, my thoughts:
I was sucked into this world almost immediately. It was very atmospheric and had that dark academia vibe. The book itself isn’t dark, but it deals with heavy subjects. Which aren’t even detailed as we only see small flashbacks.
Gemma frustrated me a little in the beginning, cause she didn’t talk in front of Isaiah, I think the first complete conversation they had was at the 50% mark or something. She became speechless and took forever to answer back (unless she talked back, which usually was a small sentence here or there). It was understandable, with what we know about her, but frustrating nonetheless. I wanted to smack her at the end, but I’m glad she is self-aware about how STUPID she was there. She grew a little during the book, though. Which I loved. She started to have a bit of independence and to know herself, which I LOVED.
“Richard said good girls didn’t break rules, but he could watch me break each and every one.”
Isaiah was a fave. He is so much more than the “bad boy” who only cares about himself. We know a bit more about him and I adored him. It was adorable watching him deny his feeling when we ALL knew he was already obsessed with Gemma.
“If she cried, I would rip apart every building, every person, every last living thing on this earth until I make her tears disappear. I’d tear down the Covens, brick by brick, person by person, to find her brother if that made her happy. If that meant she could stay.”
I loved how he didn’t want to control her, he was protective and possessive, yes. But he LOVED watching Gem stand her ground and be strong by herself. UGH. i loved him.
“Kissing her was like a gift. Or maybe it was a punishment.
Either way, I didn’t care. I’d kiss her every day until I no longer could. And then, I’d find a way to keep her. I’d find her one way or another and make her mine again.”
I loved the Headmaster and Sloane. My heart BROKE when Isaiah had the suspicion of where Tobias might be. I don’t even know him and I’m sad for him😭😭
Why not five stars?
I wanted more on the school side. It’s like there aren’t any students. We only learn like 3 names of students which is unrealistic. I wanted more bonding time with Sloane and Mercedes. Cause they suddenly were besties, but we didn’t see that. The Rebels were more present, but even then I needed more group scenes. I live for that shit, so I was a bit let down.
I have A LOT of suspicions of what’s to come and I’m super excited. With Tobias location, Isaiah’s dad business, Journey’s mystery and Gemma’s past. There’s A LOT of thing that could happen and I can’t wait for Dec 2nd!!!
“But hey, we were all a little fucked up at St. Mary’s.”
╭─━━━━━━━━━━━━─╮
• St. Mary’s Series •
Good Girls Never Rise #1 — 4.45 stars
Bad Boys Never Fall #2 — 3.97 stars
Dead Girls Never Talk — tbr
╰─━━━━━━━━━━━━─╯
August 13, 2022
Sammi has done it again WOW!!!
I recently discovered SJ from her English Prep series and after speaking to her through instagram I quickly learnt about her upcoming release and knew I was going to love it, which i did.
It follows Gemma and Isaiah at a private boarding school called Saint Mary’s. After a very tough upbringing Gemma finds herself enjoying Saint Mary’s and trusting people, specifically Isaiah, but is quick to discover there are many secrets in the hallways of the school.
Sammi’s writing is next level and from the prologue I was hooked, its a heartbreaking yet beautiful story that everyone should read.
The canteen scene🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
Just like SJ predicted I fell in love with Isaiah and I know you all will too!!
I am so excited for the 2nd book, can’t wait for it to land in my kindle!!
Thank you Give Me Books for the ARC!
I recently discovered SJ from her English Prep series and after speaking to her through instagram I quickly learnt about her upcoming release and knew I was going to love it, which i did.
It follows Gemma and Isaiah at a private boarding school called Saint Mary’s. After a very tough upbringing Gemma finds herself enjoying Saint Mary’s and trusting people, specifically Isaiah, but is quick to discover there are many secrets in the hallways of the school.
Sammi’s writing is next level and from the prologue I was hooked, its a heartbreaking yet beautiful story that everyone should read.
The canteen scene🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
Just like SJ predicted I fell in love with Isaiah and I know you all will too!!
I am so excited for the 2nd book, can’t wait for it to land in my kindle!!
Thank you Give Me Books for the ARC!
November 6, 2021
Sammi!! OMG where do I begin! I'll start with thank you for trusting your gut and giving us this phenomenal book that is a brilliant combo of dark romance and high school romance! Throw in a hell of a lot of suspense and yep, I'm a sucker for it!!
I knew after reading S.J. Sylvis last High School series that she was onto something amazing with this duet! I was not let down!
Gemma is an innocent girl but not in the way people perceive. She lived a life no one would wish upon anyone and because of that she seems naive but is super sharp inside. It's just it takes someone special to burst the fire alive inside her.
Isaiah is the one. He's an anti-hero but gentleman too. Now this is a lethal combo but made for him! One of my favourite things in a book is the fact that the guy despite being a little bad doesn't act douchey. Sure he is a little quick to judge and does play with Gemma but as soon as he knows there's more to her than what meets the eye he's curious to keep her close.
Isaiah and Gemma make a deal one that keeps them both winners but as they start to keep each other close it causes their secrets to tangle and suspense to bloom. They both don't want to open up, especially Gemma as she doesn't trust easily but when Isaiah does everything in his power to protect her she can't help feeling more than she should.
This is book 1 in a duet, and ends on a cliffhanger. Be warned there's a lot of suspense, a lot of tension, a lot of drama and darkness too.
I loved that S.J. Sylvis didn't hold back on any moment and truly think this may be one of hwr best books to date! There's not a single moment you can't love. Plus throw in a few secondary characters full of some mystery and joy, it makes a story you can't help but keep hold of all day and night!
I cannot wait to dive into book 2 when it drops as I'm ready for all that was unanswered to be answered and Isaiah and Gemma to get their happily ever after that they much deserve! Let's goo!!!
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I knew after reading S.J. Sylvis last High School series that she was onto something amazing with this duet! I was not let down!
Gemma is an innocent girl but not in the way people perceive. She lived a life no one would wish upon anyone and because of that she seems naive but is super sharp inside. It's just it takes someone special to burst the fire alive inside her.
Isaiah is the one. He's an anti-hero but gentleman too. Now this is a lethal combo but made for him! One of my favourite things in a book is the fact that the guy despite being a little bad doesn't act douchey. Sure he is a little quick to judge and does play with Gemma but as soon as he knows there's more to her than what meets the eye he's curious to keep her close.
Isaiah and Gemma make a deal one that keeps them both winners but as they start to keep each other close it causes their secrets to tangle and suspense to bloom. They both don't want to open up, especially Gemma as she doesn't trust easily but when Isaiah does everything in his power to protect her she can't help feeling more than she should.
This is book 1 in a duet, and ends on a cliffhanger. Be warned there's a lot of suspense, a lot of tension, a lot of drama and darkness too.
I loved that S.J. Sylvis didn't hold back on any moment and truly think this may be one of hwr best books to date! There's not a single moment you can't love. Plus throw in a few secondary characters full of some mystery and joy, it makes a story you can't help but keep hold of all day and night!
I cannot wait to dive into book 2 when it drops as I'm ready for all that was unanswered to be answered and Isaiah and Gemma to get their happily ever after that they much deserve! Let's goo!!!
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2021
Saint Mary’s is a boarding school for those with a purpose & loads of secrets. You can’t really trust anyone and you have to expect the unexpected. Gemma is your typical good girl who doesn’t go against the rules & always wants to please people because of how she was raised. I have to say I’m super excited to see how she develops in the next book! Isiah is your bad boy anti hero we all love to hate w/ a sweeter side that I loved getting to see. He’s bad bot without acting like a total douche which is just amazing. He was sent to St Mary’s by his father & of course he’s keeping some major secrets. Gemma & Isiah have such a strong connection right off the bat. I loved getting to see their feelings develop & the struggles of what’s to come gets laid out. When both their secrets start to come out no matter how hard they try to keep them quiet, their relationship & trust with each other is tested.
I can’t wait to see how this duet ends in the next book! There is a cliffhanger but man oh man does it get you excited for what’s to come! This book does have more world-building & plot set up so it did start off a tad slower then I would have liked. However, I think the second book is gonna packs punch!
I can’t wait to see how this duet ends in the next book! There is a cliffhanger but man oh man does it get you excited for what’s to come! This book does have more world-building & plot set up so it did start off a tad slower then I would have liked. However, I think the second book is gonna packs punch!
February 13, 2022
Tf was this
dnf
March 1, 2022DNF @ 13% - bored. Realized, when I saw it languishing on my Kindle, that I couldn't remember a single thing I had read just a few days ago. Moving on.
January 18, 2023
2.5
it did not need to be 500+ pages
it did not need to be 500+ pages
December 12, 2024
this ending had me screaming wtf 😭 i need to start the next book now
November 10, 2021
This book gave me all the feels. My emotions were up and down like I yo-yo and I was drawn in from page one. I actually felt like I was right there with them in the story, as the description was so good, I could see and feel it. Sylvis really nailed this.
So Gemma… she’s got so many dark secrets and has had no control over her life at all. She now has the freedom that boarding school provides but she hasn’t a clue what she’s doing. Then she meets Isaiah the hot lacrosse playing bad boy. They are both drawn together but are unsure why. Their relationship is full of so many twists and turns and I couldn’t put it down. I read this book in a day because I didn’t want to miss a thing.
Gemma and Isaiah both have their own secrets, their own darkness and the cliffhanger is epic. I cannot wait for book 2
So Gemma… she’s got so many dark secrets and has had no control over her life at all. She now has the freedom that boarding school provides but she hasn’t a clue what she’s doing. Then she meets Isaiah the hot lacrosse playing bad boy. They are both drawn together but are unsure why. Their relationship is full of so many twists and turns and I couldn’t put it down. I read this book in a day because I didn’t want to miss a thing.
Gemma and Isaiah both have their own secrets, their own darkness and the cliffhanger is epic. I cannot wait for book 2
November 11, 2021
I don't think my heart rate did anything but rise, just like good girls never do ;), as I read this entire book. A twisted, captivating, angsty read that will leave you breathless and on the edge of your seat up until the cliffy boner, I just could not put S.J.'s latest dark romance down. With beautiful imagery and vivid description, she transports you to this world of St. Mary's where nothing is as it seems and no one is who they say they are. Gemma and Isiah are two broken souls trying to navigate paths carved out for them that they don't necessarily want to follow. Along the first part of their story, we see them overcome some difficulties and uncover a hundred more. I cannot wait for book two, and you should pick this up IMMEDIATELY! 5 stars!
June 26, 2023
"Her light laugh filled the car again, and it was like an awakening. Why haven't I heard her laugh before? My chest was twisting, and I suddenly wanted to make her laugh again."
Isaiah was just... yes. And the fact that he's a Harry Potter stan made me like him so much more than I already did. (He's actually on my shit list rn after that last chapter tho)
"I was so twisted around all things Isaiah that there wasn't much room for anything else on my head. It was...him. And only him."
Gemma was sweet and quiet, but she grew throughout the book and was even a bit feisty. I just really like her. Even though she was VERY fucking dumb in that last chapter.
I liked a lot of the side characters, especially Sloane. So, I can't wait to read their books after this duet.
Isaiah was just... yes. And the fact that he's a Harry Potter stan made me like him so much more than I already did. (He's actually on my shit list rn after that last chapter tho)
"I was so twisted around all things Isaiah that there wasn't much room for anything else on my head. It was...him. And only him."
Gemma was sweet and quiet, but she grew throughout the book and was even a bit feisty. I just really like her. Even though she was VERY fucking dumb in that last chapter.
I liked a lot of the side characters, especially Sloane. So, I can't wait to read their books after this duet.
July 21, 2022
Okay so this one started out slow for me and I found myself having a hard time getting into it. But let me tell you it picks up after a few chapters and you will be hooked.
Gemma is sent away to boarding school after an incident at her previous school (which she had only attended for 2 months). Gemma is living with her controlling, sadistic uncle who only stopped homeschooling her after social workers started asking questions. Gemma has suffered physically and mentally under her uncles care (who by the way is not really even her uncle). Gemma sees this chance at boarding school as a way to finally escape him and find her twin brother that was taking from her one night 4 years .
I hike there she meets the schools bad boy Isaiah, who begins to teach Gemma things she never believed she would be able to experience.
I loved both the main characters. Gemma comes off as timid and shy but deep down she is a fighter who is determined to find a way out from under her horrible uncle. And Isaiah has grown up in a family that cares only about getting ahead by any means necessary and has witnessed a lot of violence in his life.
There is talk of child abuse so check TW before reading. I’m already starting the second one because the first one ends in a cliff hanger and I NEED to know what happens!
Gemma is sent away to boarding school after an incident at her previous school (which she had only attended for 2 months). Gemma is living with her controlling, sadistic uncle who only stopped homeschooling her after social workers started asking questions. Gemma has suffered physically and mentally under her uncles care (who by the way is not really even her uncle). Gemma sees this chance at boarding school as a way to finally escape him and find her twin brother that was taking from her one night 4 years .
I hike there she meets the schools bad boy Isaiah, who begins to teach Gemma things she never believed she would be able to experience.
I loved both the main characters. Gemma comes off as timid and shy but deep down she is a fighter who is determined to find a way out from under her horrible uncle. And Isaiah has grown up in a family that cares only about getting ahead by any means necessary and has witnessed a lot of violence in his life.
There is talk of child abuse so check TW before reading. I’m already starting the second one because the first one ends in a cliff hanger and I NEED to know what happens!
November 17, 2021
4.5 Stars
This was my first book by S.J. Sylvis and I'm officially a fan! This was a fantastic dark, slow burn boarding school romance. I picked it up because I was obsessed with the cover (I mean, look at it) and I kept reading because I honestly couldn't put it down. While it started a bit slow, I was immediately interested in both main characters and their histories. I also really loved the atmospheric school setting, and the side characters. I need so much more information about the Rebels and really hope that they each get their own books.
As the plot itself picked up, I grew more and more invested in both Isaiah and Gemma, and around the halfway mark the book got so good that I couldn't have put it down for anything. The romance was definitely a slow burn but it was so worth waiting for.
The ending has me DYING for book two! This does end in a cliffhanger and I'm honestly so hooked that I would trade one of my cats for Bad Boys Never Fall right now.
This was my first book by S.J. Sylvis and I'm officially a fan! This was a fantastic dark, slow burn boarding school romance. I picked it up because I was obsessed with the cover (I mean, look at it) and I kept reading because I honestly couldn't put it down. While it started a bit slow, I was immediately interested in both main characters and their histories. I also really loved the atmospheric school setting, and the side characters. I need so much more information about the Rebels and really hope that they each get their own books.
As the plot itself picked up, I grew more and more invested in both Isaiah and Gemma, and around the halfway mark the book got so good that I couldn't have put it down for anything. The romance was definitely a slow burn but it was so worth waiting for.
The ending has me DYING for book two! This does end in a cliffhanger and I'm honestly so hooked that I would trade one of my cats for Bad Boys Never Fall right now.
November 16, 2021
I am….shooketh. First of all, Sammi how dare you stop there, rude. But second of all, oh my god I can’t get enough! This is the perfect angst filled slow burn dark romance in a school setting and I need MORE. Gemma has such a mysterious back story and I love Isaiahs “bad boy” act. 10/10 would read so many books about these two
August 18, 2022
DNF 57%
I really tried pushing through this book, but I just couldn’t do it…For the love of Jesus it was soooooooo boring…
I was waiting for it to pick up but that never happened.. even the chemistry between MC’s wasn’t anything special.
Sorry but I don’t even care to know what all the secrets are….
Audiobook review: Vivienne LaRue won me over with her fabulous narrating. She is always bringing the story to life but Eric London was not my cup of tea. I honestly stopped listening to his chapters and just read them myself. I’m sorry but he was to feminine for my liking. I felt he wasn’t a good fit for this book in my opinion.
I really tried pushing through this book, but I just couldn’t do it…For the love of Jesus it was soooooooo boring…
I was waiting for it to pick up but that never happened.. even the chemistry between MC’s wasn’t anything special.
Sorry but I don’t even care to know what all the secrets are….
Audiobook review: Vivienne LaRue won me over with her fabulous narrating. She is always bringing the story to life but Eric London was not my cup of tea. I honestly stopped listening to his chapters and just read them myself. I’m sorry but he was to feminine for my liking. I felt he wasn’t a good fit for this book in my opinion.
January 16, 2022
4.25 ⭐️
S.J. Sylvis is a talented storyteller. I yet again find myself getting lost in the world of her characters.
The atmosphere of this book was incredible from the school to the location, and all the characters. I really enjoyed it.
The angst. The deliciously slow burn. The twists and turns. THE SPICE! Damn, the spice 🌶 I have a new found love for slow burn. This wasn’t insta love and it made the bonds between them SO much better. These two have an unmatched chemistry!! 🙌🏻
It would have been a solid 5 star if the story were a bit shorter. It dragged out in some places, but it was definitely worthy.
Overall, I loved getting into these characters minds. Loved the world the author has created and I can't wait to see what book two has in store!
S.J. Sylvis is a talented storyteller. I yet again find myself getting lost in the world of her characters.
The atmosphere of this book was incredible from the school to the location, and all the characters. I really enjoyed it.
The angst. The deliciously slow burn. The twists and turns. THE SPICE! Damn, the spice 🌶 I have a new found love for slow burn. This wasn’t insta love and it made the bonds between them SO much better. These two have an unmatched chemistry!! 🙌🏻
It would have been a solid 5 star if the story were a bit shorter. It dragged out in some places, but it was definitely worthy.
Overall, I loved getting into these characters minds. Loved the world the author has created and I can't wait to see what book two has in store!
September 7, 2023
I don't know if the writing doesn't work for me or doesn't work at all😅😬
the idea of this story is actually interesting, the characters are normally what I'd like, the friend group, the castle-like boarding school filled with secrets and dark corners...
But I can't bring myself to care about the characters. There are whole passages where their "connection" is described as something otherworldly, and I'm like..."MEH" 🤣🤷🏼♀️
It ends on a cliffhangerthat has the most stupid and frustrating "twist" ever and I think I'll still check the second book. If i don't find anything better to read💀
the idea of this story is actually interesting, the characters are normally what I'd like, the friend group, the castle-like boarding school filled with secrets and dark corners...
But I can't bring myself to care about the characters. There are whole passages where their "connection" is described as something otherworldly, and I'm like..."MEH" 🤣🤷🏼♀️
It ends on a cliffhanger
February 10, 2025
this book is so unserious there was SO much emphasis on him being the ‘bad boy’ but it was a bunch of show and not tell. also the group of boys being called the ‘rebels’ is SO stupid y’all are like a a year older than me BEHAVE
knockoff binding 13 and this is coming from someone that did not enjoy that book either
the journeycade crumbs ate though and i love sloane
BUT THE WHOLE SHELTERED THING I CANT TAKE SERIOUSLY 😭 NO OFFENSE SHE ACTED LIKE A CHILD ISIAH HAD TO EXPLAIN TO HER WHAT A BLOWJOB WAS
there was no reason for this book to be 600+ pages
knockoff binding 13 and this is coming from someone that did not enjoy that book either
the journeycade crumbs ate though and i love sloane
BUT THE WHOLE SHELTERED THING I CANT TAKE SERIOUSLY 😭 NO OFFENSE SHE ACTED LIKE A CHILD ISIAH HAD TO EXPLAIN TO HER WHAT A BLOWJOB WAS
there was no reason for this book to be 600+ pages
November 17, 2021
GOOD GIRLS NEVER RISE BY S.J. SYLVIS
Secret society, dark, and twisted!
Gemma is sent to St. Marys to be "a good girl" and follow the rules, or there will be consequences. The book starts out in the past and we get a glimpse of life at home with her "uncle", with the fear she felt. The whole story Gemma is following her brothers advice and just trying to survive, until she crosses path with Isaiah nephew of the headmaster and the one who can make her break some rules. Isaiah is at St. Marys on a mission and Gemma is about to become his perfect excuse. Isaiah and Gemma come from very different places but they are just trying to survive and save the one they love. Isaiah, came across as the bully and bad boy, then he goes sweet! Gemma and Isaiah together was teasing corrupting romance of the good girl and the bully. I am still reeling from that ending. I am shocked, and terrified for Gemma!
Secret society, dark, and twisted!
Gemma is sent to St. Marys to be "a good girl" and follow the rules, or there will be consequences. The book starts out in the past and we get a glimpse of life at home with her "uncle", with the fear she felt. The whole story Gemma is following her brothers advice and just trying to survive, until she crosses path with Isaiah nephew of the headmaster and the one who can make her break some rules. Isaiah is at St. Marys on a mission and Gemma is about to become his perfect excuse. Isaiah and Gemma come from very different places but they are just trying to survive and save the one they love. Isaiah, came across as the bully and bad boy, then he goes sweet! Gemma and Isaiah together was teasing corrupting romance of the good girl and the bully. I am still reeling from that ending. I am shocked, and terrified for Gemma!
November 20, 2021
Everyone who attends Saint Mary’s has a reason. And everyone has secrets that they to keep close to their chest. Gemma is a good girl who doesn’t break the rules because of her upbringing. And Isaiah was sent there by his father for his own gain. But the connection Gemma and Isaiah have, caused their secrets to slowly come out to one another, no matter how hard they fight it. But what happens when the trust between them gets tested?
While this book took me on a wild ride, I found it just a smidge slow to start for my liking. But with that I also know that world building was happening and it’s what needed to happen. I can’t wait for book two because I have a lot of questions I need answers too.
While this book took me on a wild ride, I found it just a smidge slow to start for my liking. But with that I also know that world building was happening and it’s what needed to happen. I can’t wait for book two because I have a lot of questions I need answers too.
November 17, 2021
Holy angst, Batman!
Hands down. Good Girls Never Rise is one of my favorite reads of 2021. Holy shiitake! The angst. The deliciously slow burn. The twists and turns. THE SPICE! I was left shooketh to the core and honestly, I was not okay after finishing this bad boy. I felt like I held my breath with every page turned. I am DYING for more. Hello, book hangover. SJ's voice just shines through. She truly has hit her sweet spot in mature YA/NA and it just leaves me in awe. I've also had the immense pleasure of reading the full duet and y'all are not ready. Hold on and buckle up buttercups! All the stars!
Hands down. Good Girls Never Rise is one of my favorite reads of 2021. Holy shiitake! The angst. The deliciously slow burn. The twists and turns. THE SPICE! I was left shooketh to the core and honestly, I was not okay after finishing this bad boy. I felt like I held my breath with every page turned. I am DYING for more. Hello, book hangover. SJ's voice just shines through. She truly has hit her sweet spot in mature YA/NA and it just leaves me in awe. I've also had the immense pleasure of reading the full duet and y'all are not ready. Hold on and buckle up buttercups! All the stars!
November 22, 2023
A dark and rainy boarding school setting filled with secrets and students seeking escape in scandalous activity!
I enjoy indulging in high school romances from time and this one didn’t disappoint. The classic good girl x bad boy dynamic with several fill in the blanks that have yet to be uncovered (ends on a cliffhanger).
Isaiah Underwood.. his name alone 🥵. He and The Rebels were fun to read about. Gemma.. her past hurts me, but I’m ready to see her fight back and truly claim her life in the following book.
I enjoy indulging in high school romances from time and this one didn’t disappoint. The classic good girl x bad boy dynamic with several fill in the blanks that have yet to be uncovered (ends on a cliffhanger).
Isaiah Underwood.. his name alone 🥵. He and The Rebels were fun to read about. Gemma.. her past hurts me, but I’m ready to see her fight back and truly claim her life in the following book.
September 2, 2023
(3.75/5) it was bad but like…in a good way? anyways! onto the next book😛
November 19, 2021
I couldn't get enough of this book. This is my first book by S.J. Sylvis and I am loving her writing. This book is hauntingly dark and twisted and it had me at the edge of my seat. I literally wanted to wrap Gemma up in a hug, I hate her uncle. He made me very stabby. I hate that she has lost so much already. One silver lining was that she was sent to the new school and crossed paths with Isaiah. These two, the instant heat and connection. I was living for it. This book is on another level and I need more of it!! I'm so ready for the web of lies to unravel because things are about to get really interesting. This is a must read!!
November 12, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and this review is my own, honest opinion.
Oh wow! Where do I start?
This book is simply phenomenal, I’m not going to say too much about it as it just needs to be read. I went in completely blind, I didn’t even read the blurb, all I knew was it was a dark romance set in a boarding school.
Let me tell you though that at times my heart was pounding and in my throat! It takes you on the most exhilarating ride with incredible well thought out characters. I could feel myself immersed in the pages and needing to know more. Then just when I thought I was about to have heart failure, the three dreaded words us readers hate but authors love were written……to be continued! Argh! Thankfully we don’t have long to wait for the next book.
Great job Sammi, can’t wait to rejoin the rollercoaster ride that is Gemma and Isaiah.
Oh wow! Where do I start?
This book is simply phenomenal, I’m not going to say too much about it as it just needs to be read. I went in completely blind, I didn’t even read the blurb, all I knew was it was a dark romance set in a boarding school.
Let me tell you though that at times my heart was pounding and in my throat! It takes you on the most exhilarating ride with incredible well thought out characters. I could feel myself immersed in the pages and needing to know more. Then just when I thought I was about to have heart failure, the three dreaded words us readers hate but authors love were written……to be continued! Argh! Thankfully we don’t have long to wait for the next book.
Great job Sammi, can’t wait to rejoin the rollercoaster ride that is Gemma and Isaiah.
November 7, 2021
This book!! If you’re new to SJ Sylvis she is the queen of high school romance. She writes amazing bad boys and her characters have intense chemistry. Gemma & Isaiah are no exception-in fact they might be my favorite couple from her so far! Their chemistry is so real and watching their relationship evolve is such a trip.
Gemma is sent to Saint Mary’s boarding school by her “Uncle” after she tried to run away from him-there is so much more to the story with Gemmas uncle, Judge Stallard, and I hope that the second book of the duet goes more into this. Judge Stallard is a horrible man who has done horrible things-including things to Gemma. Isaiah has been sent to Saint Mary’s by his father, The Huntsman, to keep an eye on his competitions son, Bain. Gemma is desperate to find a way to run away from Saint Mary’s, and her life, and Isaiah is desperate to stay at Saint Mary’s to protect someone he loves more than anything. They form an unlikely alliance to help each other get what they want, but their undeniable chemistry with each other keeps getting in the way. Emotions run high and feelings are involved. But how can they continue like this when they are on completely different paths?
Book 1 of the Saint Mary’s duet is out on November 16!
Gemma is sent to Saint Mary’s boarding school by her “Uncle” after she tried to run away from him-there is so much more to the story with Gemmas uncle, Judge Stallard, and I hope that the second book of the duet goes more into this. Judge Stallard is a horrible man who has done horrible things-including things to Gemma. Isaiah has been sent to Saint Mary’s by his father, The Huntsman, to keep an eye on his competitions son, Bain. Gemma is desperate to find a way to run away from Saint Mary’s, and her life, and Isaiah is desperate to stay at Saint Mary’s to protect someone he loves more than anything. They form an unlikely alliance to help each other get what they want, but their undeniable chemistry with each other keeps getting in the way. Emotions run high and feelings are involved. But how can they continue like this when they are on completely different paths?
Book 1 of the Saint Mary’s duet is out on November 16!
November 13, 2021
Review: Good Girls Never Rise.
By: S.J. Sylvis.
Stars: 5\5⭐.
ARC Copy.
Good Girls Never Rise was a freaking awesome book!
This was my first book by S.J. Sylvis and I wasn't disappointed. If you like books that have strong and sweet FMC's and bad boys with hidden layers. Add in a boarding school, and so many twists and turns within the characters? Then this is the book for you.
" We were from two completely different words that couldn't have been more opposite. Fate brought us together, and we devised a plan. I was to leave St. Mary's Boarding School, and he was to stay."
I highly recommend this book to anyone who reads this review.
By: S.J. Sylvis.
Stars: 5\5⭐.
ARC Copy.
Good Girls Never Rise was a freaking awesome book!
This was my first book by S.J. Sylvis and I wasn't disappointed. If you like books that have strong and sweet FMC's and bad boys with hidden layers. Add in a boarding school, and so many twists and turns within the characters? Then this is the book for you.
" We were from two completely different words that couldn't have been more opposite. Fate brought us together, and we devised a plan. I was to leave St. Mary's Boarding School, and he was to stay."
I highly recommend this book to anyone who reads this review.
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