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The Syndicate Academy #4
Twisted Games
Archer Daniels is the biggest flirt at the academy, and he’s determined to have me. Coach Daniels has a history of sleeping with students.
Now I’m in my senior year, he’s determined to add me to the list.
I’d rather die than end up another notch in his bedpost.
But the man is persistent to a fault. He’s not someone who gives up easily, pushing harder the more I reject him.
I fear that Archer will stop at nothing until he gets what he wants.
A fear that quickly turns to reality as he digs up dirt about me I don’t want people to know.
He says the whole school will find out if I don’t hand him my virginity. As if it’s some trophy to be claimed.
I’ll give him what he wants, but I won’t make it easy for him.
I’ve never been good at losing and I’m going to make him wish he never pursued me.
He may be ruthless and insistent, but I can be just as mean. We’ll see who the true winner is when we both play dirty.
I’ll claim his heart and make him wish he never set eyes on me.
And then, I’ll walk away and leave him broken.
Finally teach him a lesson. At least, that’s the plan.
As long as I make sure I don't fall for him in the process...
Now I’m in my senior year, he’s determined to add me to the list.
I’d rather die than end up another notch in his bedpost.
But the man is persistent to a fault. He’s not someone who gives up easily, pushing harder the more I reject him.
I fear that Archer will stop at nothing until he gets what he wants.
A fear that quickly turns to reality as he digs up dirt about me I don’t want people to know.
He says the whole school will find out if I don’t hand him my virginity. As if it’s some trophy to be claimed.
I’ll give him what he wants, but I won’t make it easy for him.
I’ve never been good at losing and I’m going to make him wish he never pursued me.
He may be ruthless and insistent, but I can be just as mean. We’ll see who the true winner is when we both play dirty.
I’ll claim his heart and make him wish he never set eyes on me.
And then, I’ll walk away and leave him broken.
Finally teach him a lesson. At least, that’s the plan.
As long as I make sure I don't fall for him in the process...
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 5, 2023
2/5 🌟 3/5 🔥
The spice was the only good thing about this novel.
SAFETY:
Age: unknown
Cheating: None!
OM/OW drama: slight OW
Sex scene with OM/OW: None!
Virgin/celibate/manwhore: virgin heroine, very much a manwhore hero.
Kinks: dubcon, degradation, spanking, breathplay
Triggers: forced intimacy, blackmail
Tropes: age gap, forbidden (student/teacher), mafia
HEA?: Yes!
My bookshelves may contain spoilers.
The spice was the only good thing about this novel.
SAFETY:
Age: unknown
Cheating: None!
OM/OW drama: slight OW
Sex scene with OM/OW: None!
Virgin/celibate/manwhore: virgin heroine, very much a manwhore hero.
Kinks: dubcon, degradation, spanking, breathplay
Triggers: forced intimacy, blackmail
Tropes: age gap, forbidden (student/teacher), mafia
HEA?: Yes!
My bookshelves may contain spoilers.
February 3, 2023
Normally I wouldn’t go out of my way to write such a negative review, but this book just doesn’t sit right with me. Now, I love a dark romance and a taboo relationship as well, I’ve even read some Bianca Cole books in the past and haven’t had any issues with her work thus far, but I can’t let this one go.
The following may contain spoilers.
Archer Daniels or ‘Coach’, our hero, is a predator that grooms impressionable young teenage girls. Its a known fact throughout the series that he has made a habit of perusing his senior students; the fact that he specifically waits until they are seniors, and mind you he has known most of them for their entire school career makes me a little sick in the stomach. From the very first chapter which takes place at the beginning of a senior year at a full school assembly we are told that he already has his eyes on our heroine as his next conquest. Its the waiting specifically until they turn 18 before you let yourself look at them that has me concerned, because really, it just sounds like you’re sexualising minors the whole time anyway, but giving yourself permission once they’re ‘legal’, that’s really twisted. This behaviour in the book is said to have occurred for the past few years, meaning it’s not a one off.
On top of these tendencies, there is almost a direct quote in the book saying that he doesn’t care about consent from other parties which I find to be extremely disturbing. After months of pursuing our heroine, only to be told no repeatedly, he then decides to blackmail her and use coercion as a form of getting into her to sleep with him. Not only that but he doesn’t seem to have any remorse for his actions or consider how his actions might impact our heroine.
Honestly, if giving minus star rating was an option, I would, 1 star is significantly higher than what it deserves. Overall I just found it disturbing and extremely disappointing which is a shame because if some elements were to be rearranged I probably wouldn’t have had any issues with it and perhaps might of even enjoyed it.
The following may contain spoilers.
Archer Daniels or ‘Coach’, our hero, is a predator that grooms impressionable young teenage girls. Its a known fact throughout the series that he has made a habit of perusing his senior students; the fact that he specifically waits until they are seniors, and mind you he has known most of them for their entire school career makes me a little sick in the stomach. From the very first chapter which takes place at the beginning of a senior year at a full school assembly we are told that he already has his eyes on our heroine as his next conquest. Its the waiting specifically until they turn 18 before you let yourself look at them that has me concerned, because really, it just sounds like you’re sexualising minors the whole time anyway, but giving yourself permission once they’re ‘legal’, that’s really twisted. This behaviour in the book is said to have occurred for the past few years, meaning it’s not a one off.
On top of these tendencies, there is almost a direct quote in the book saying that he doesn’t care about consent from other parties which I find to be extremely disturbing. After months of pursuing our heroine, only to be told no repeatedly, he then decides to blackmail her and use coercion as a form of getting into her to sleep with him. Not only that but he doesn’t seem to have any remorse for his actions or consider how his actions might impact our heroine.
Honestly, if giving minus star rating was an option, I would, 1 star is significantly higher than what it deserves. Overall I just found it disturbing and extremely disappointing which is a shame because if some elements were to be rearranged I probably wouldn’t have had any issues with it and perhaps might of even enjoyed it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2023
Bianca Cole writes a really good, morally grey anti-hero and the Syndicate Academy series was a fun departure from her normally (very) dark romance. Playing Dirty was a fun read and while dark, it was definitely not like her more intense works. Archer was funny, even as he eventually blackmailed Adrianna into their relationship. He’s also a notorious playboy, so she has no interest in being another conquest. Adrianna also knows how to kick some butt and gives as good as she gets. The book was steamy, as usual, and had some suspense/action but started to get a bit long winded toward the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 16, 2025
Summary: This is a taboo romance.
Additional tropes:
✅ Enemies to lovers
Detailed spoilers/trigger warnings (if any) and final thoughts can be found below.
Our FMC is Adriana. She is a student at the Syndicate Academy (SA) which is a secret school whose students are all affiliated with family members belonging to mobs and cartels from all over the world. The rules and curriculum here are different than any other educational institution.
So when a faculty member chooses to engage in certain activities with students, it is not exactly frowned upon. Archer is the coach at SA, and has a reputation for engaging in such activities. He has been attracted to the FMC, but has not done anything about it because she was under age. Now that she is 18, however, he pursues her relentlessly.
She makes it known that she is not interested, but when he discovers a secret that she is keeping, he decides to use that against her to get her to do whatever he wants.
⚠️SPOILERS/SPICE/DETAILED TRIGGERS⚠️
🌶️: 5/5: Literally chapter after chapter
Final thoughts: I had such high hopes for this book. I love a good taboo romance involving teacher/student. To say that this was a disappointment would be an understatement. First of all, it was only taboo in logistics. Because it is so common for faculty to be with students, there wasn’t really anything to the main characters getting together. Like the FMC chose to keep it a secret from her friends only because she didn’t want them to know she had given into him. Not because it was frowned upon.
The story dragged relentlessly. It was so repetitive. Every chapter was same. The BBS was horrible. There was not a single character in this book that I liked.
This book was all spice with no plot. That is something that I can appreciate if you’re going to just be honest about your intention. When you are not, you get a 400 page book with no character development, no plot, and chapter after chapter of the same exact thing.
So much was forced and just didn’t make sense. It’s clear I was not the target audience for this book.
I listened to the audiobook. I liked the male narrator. The female narrator just sounded aggressive, all of the time. Which matched the scenes when she was trying to come off strong to the MMC. Granted she wasn’t. She continued to give into him all the time even before he started blackmailing her. But the tone never changed, no matter what the scene was, which I just found to be weird. Had I not bought the audiobook, I would have absolutely DNF’d this book, and for all of these reasons, I cannot recommend this book.
Additional tropes:
✅ Enemies to lovers
Detailed spoilers/trigger warnings (if any) and final thoughts can be found below.
Our FMC is Adriana. She is a student at the Syndicate Academy (SA) which is a secret school whose students are all affiliated with family members belonging to mobs and cartels from all over the world. The rules and curriculum here are different than any other educational institution.
So when a faculty member chooses to engage in certain activities with students, it is not exactly frowned upon. Archer is the coach at SA, and has a reputation for engaging in such activities. He has been attracted to the FMC, but has not done anything about it because she was under age. Now that she is 18, however, he pursues her relentlessly.
She makes it known that she is not interested, but when he discovers a secret that she is keeping, he decides to use that against her to get her to do whatever he wants.
⚠️SPOILERS/SPICE/DETAILED TRIGGERS⚠️
🌶️: 5/5: Literally chapter after chapter
Final thoughts: I had such high hopes for this book. I love a good taboo romance involving teacher/student. To say that this was a disappointment would be an understatement. First of all, it was only taboo in logistics. Because it is so common for faculty to be with students, there wasn’t really anything to the main characters getting together. Like the FMC chose to keep it a secret from her friends only because she didn’t want them to know she had given into him. Not because it was frowned upon.
The story dragged relentlessly. It was so repetitive. Every chapter was same. The BBS was horrible. There was not a single character in this book that I liked.
This book was all spice with no plot. That is something that I can appreciate if you’re going to just be honest about your intention. When you are not, you get a 400 page book with no character development, no plot, and chapter after chapter of the same exact thing.
So much was forced and just didn’t make sense. It’s clear I was not the target audience for this book.
I listened to the audiobook. I liked the male narrator. The female narrator just sounded aggressive, all of the time. Which matched the scenes when she was trying to come off strong to the MMC. Granted she wasn’t. She continued to give into him all the time even before he started blackmailing her. But the tone never changed, no matter what the scene was, which I just found to be weird. Had I not bought the audiobook, I would have absolutely DNF’d this book, and for all of these reasons, I cannot recommend this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
Playing Dirty is fourth book in the Syndicate Academy Series. This book can be read as a standalone even though the series interweaves and familiar characters pop up in each. It has happily-ever-after. This is a dark enemies-to-lovers romance story and has dark themes, hot scenes, violence, and content that some readers may find upsetting, and bad language. A steamy story of blackmail, drama, coercion, power play, lust, kinks, BDSM, spanking, dominance, angst, anger, submission, aged gap trope, taboo, forbidden romance, forced proximity, Non-consensual, enemies-to-lovers, hate-to-love, teacher/student relationship, passion, tension, emotions, adventure, humor, banter, and love.
Coach Archer Daniel is the Academy biggest playboy and history of sleeping with his students every year at all cost. Adrianna is a senior this year and he's determined to get her V-card at cost even through manipulation or blackmail. But she's not going to make it easy for him like his other conquest. He will soon realize that he's up against a formidable opponent. Archer is obsessed and is someone that gives up easily. It's a cat and mouse game as these two each try one up each other. He thinks he's ruthless but she can be just as ruthless and if not even more calculated at the end of this game she's going to show him who's the true winner. Because he wants her V-card but she's plans on claiming his heart then walking away and leaving him a shell of man to teach him a lesson. The push and pull between these two and the hatred on Adrianna path was eventually realized that they did in fact have feelings for each. He had to show her that she wasn't just the notch on his bedpost and that he really cared.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Coach Archer Daniel is the Academy biggest playboy and history of sleeping with his students every year at all cost. Adrianna is a senior this year and he's determined to get her V-card at cost even through manipulation or blackmail. But she's not going to make it easy for him like his other conquest. He will soon realize that he's up against a formidable opponent. Archer is obsessed and is someone that gives up easily. It's a cat and mouse game as these two each try one up each other. He thinks he's ruthless but she can be just as ruthless and if not even more calculated at the end of this game she's going to show him who's the true winner. Because he wants her V-card but she's plans on claiming his heart then walking away and leaving him a shell of man to teach him a lesson. The push and pull between these two and the hatred on Adrianna path was eventually realized that they did in fact have feelings for each. He had to show her that she wasn't just the notch on his bedpost and that he really cared.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2023
This has been an absolute fantastic series and am sad to see it finish but thankfully it finished up so well. I absolutely loved the character of Adrianna, she was strong, feisty and determined to do what she needed to do. But looking back I loved all four of the female students, the series centred around and certainly their strong bond of friendship with one another. Adrianna's love/hate relationship with Coach Daniels was an interesting one too, and loved how he was referred to as a manwh@re. I found there were moments during the story that really took me on an emotional roller-coaster but in a good way and certainly it is always stated how one's environment really helps develop a person's character, but for Adrianna she used that to her benefit in so many ways. Really the whole concept of the Syndicate Academy, an institution that educates the new generation of families connected to the Mafia, Bratva and whatever other controlling families and syndicates was really quite creative.
The other fact that I enjoyed is that each book of the series is written telling the story of a couple over the same period and even though it is very much a standalone story one could read on its own, I found it so much better having read the previous titles, because deep down I knew what was happening to others at the same time, when it seemed there were moody moments from others. Perhaps to date for me, it has been one of the grittier emotional series I've read to date and knowing how much I enjoyed each book of the series I think I'm ready to travel through more of this genre/trope of books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The other fact that I enjoyed is that each book of the series is written telling the story of a couple over the same period and even though it is very much a standalone story one could read on its own, I found it so much better having read the previous titles, because deep down I knew what was happening to others at the same time, when it seemed there were moody moments from others. Perhaps to date for me, it has been one of the grittier emotional series I've read to date and knowing how much I enjoyed each book of the series I think I'm ready to travel through more of this genre/trope of books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2023
Honest reviews can be really hard. I have LOVED this series from the beginning. Starting with Oak and Eva and the way the stories developed and continued and showed the relationships - not just between the girls but also between the men - was my favorite parts of the stories. I have been waiting for this book because the chemistry between Archer and Adrianna was incredible. I never know what to expect from this series so I was really looking forward to it. But after reading it, I was kind of disappointed.
The chemistry between them is still incredible. Adrianna is probably the strongest female character and the way she went through life on her terms was excellent. She was honest and yet still supportive to her friends. I liked how the story played out and I really enjoyed the end.
The author said at the end that she struggled with this series creatively and I think that was evident in this book. My biggest issue is Archer's cluelessness. He blackmails Adrianna to get his way and then is shocked when she doesn't respond to him the way he wants her to. I thought this guys were supposed to be smart but he showed her over years his complete lack of respect for women and then to have him be surprised that she treats him the same way is astounding to me. I would have liked an eye opening moment for him but he was very shallow to me.
I still love the series and this book was good. It just wasn't as good as the others and that was disappointing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The chemistry between them is still incredible. Adrianna is probably the strongest female character and the way she went through life on her terms was excellent. She was honest and yet still supportive to her friends. I liked how the story played out and I really enjoyed the end.
The author said at the end that she struggled with this series creatively and I think that was evident in this book. My biggest issue is Archer's cluelessness. He blackmails Adrianna to get his way and then is shocked when she doesn't respond to him the way he wants her to. I thought this guys were supposed to be smart but he showed her over years his complete lack of respect for women and then to have him be surprised that she treats him the same way is astounding to me. I would have liked an eye opening moment for him but he was very shallow to me.
I still love the series and this book was good. It just wasn't as good as the others and that was disappointing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2023
2.5
The least favorite one in all this series...unfortunately
It was repetitive , the push and pull from her was dragged wayyy to much for my liking!
I agreed with her reasoning but at the same time, the plot got boring.
I freaking hate the idea of his past being a man wh*re with other students, i wished she was more special for him you know? at least some differences other than him catching being obsessed with her and her refusing him, BTW i think she gave up to soon, and after that she run out of excuses trying to denying him .
I didn't like her to much TBH ,her being cold to him kind of ruined the book for me,he wasn't a saint either but at least he was clear about what he wants and wishes.
There is also that kiss that for me was indeed cheating.
There is also inconsistency in the plot, at the beginning of this book we have him getting her number from school records and sexting with her a few weeks and then , later on, around 50% there is a scene where he takes her phone to add his number on it...like wtf?they already had it..and texted and sexted plenty xD. WEIRD
Thourds the end the author mixed up some chapters...so i got confused and i have no idea about the timelines over there... :'( i think there are 3-4 mixed.
Over all? it was an OK read, i'm disappointed i thought i would love this 2 but unfortunately i didn't enjoy much the plot.. i think it was way to rushed despite not being a short book....and having repetitions in it.
:(
The least favorite one in all this series...unfortunately
It was repetitive , the push and pull from her was dragged wayyy to much for my liking!
I agreed with her reasoning but at the same time, the plot got boring.
I freaking hate the idea of his past being a man wh*re with other students, i wished she was more special for him you know? at least some differences other than him catching being obsessed with her and her refusing him, BTW i think she gave up to soon, and after that she run out of excuses trying to denying him .
I didn't like her to much TBH ,her being cold to him kind of ruined the book for me,he wasn't a saint either but at least he was clear about what he wants and wishes.
There is also that kiss that for me was indeed cheating.
There is also inconsistency in the plot, at the beginning of this book we have him getting her number from school records and sexting with her a few weeks and then , later on, around 50% there is a scene where he takes her phone to add his number on it...like wtf?they already had it..and texted and sexted plenty xD. WEIRD
Thourds the end the author mixed up some chapters...so i got confused and i have no idea about the timelines over there... :'( i think there are 3-4 mixed.
Over all? it was an OK read, i'm disappointed i thought i would love this 2 but unfortunately i didn't enjoy much the plot.. i think it was way to rushed despite not being a short book....and having repetitions in it.
:(
February 5, 2023
Perfection- Best couple of the Academy
This book is filled with lust, desire, passion, obsession, protectiveness, love, and commitment. You will devour every page of this whirlwind romance between Adrianna and Archer. Archer “coach” has always had a wandering eye and he has slept with students before but his need for Adrianna is unlike anything else he’s experienced before. She consumes his every thought and all he can do is try to convince her to be with him. He’s never had to work so hard to get a females attention and he loves the back and forth between them. Adrianna is a true mafia princess and she doesn’t take anything lying down. She is fierce, strong, independent and intelligent. She knows coach is obsessed with her but she doesn’t want to give in to him. She doesn’t want her first time to be with a man who’s slept with the entire academy. She’s been saving herself for the man who deserves her and Archer is not that man. However, when he has a proposal she can’t refuse there is something more between them and all her plans have started to unravel.
You will thoroughly enjoy their epic journey to finding each other and embracing all they can be when they are together. Sad to see the academy series come to an end but it was a great journey. Happy Reading!!
This book is filled with lust, desire, passion, obsession, protectiveness, love, and commitment. You will devour every page of this whirlwind romance between Adrianna and Archer. Archer “coach” has always had a wandering eye and he has slept with students before but his need for Adrianna is unlike anything else he’s experienced before. She consumes his every thought and all he can do is try to convince her to be with him. He’s never had to work so hard to get a females attention and he loves the back and forth between them. Adrianna is a true mafia princess and she doesn’t take anything lying down. She is fierce, strong, independent and intelligent. She knows coach is obsessed with her but she doesn’t want to give in to him. She doesn’t want her first time to be with a man who’s slept with the entire academy. She’s been saving herself for the man who deserves her and Archer is not that man. However, when he has a proposal she can’t refuse there is something more between them and all her plans have started to unravel.
You will thoroughly enjoy their epic journey to finding each other and embracing all they can be when they are together. Sad to see the academy series come to an end but it was a great journey. Happy Reading!!
February 10, 2024
I was pretty excited about this book, and then was pretty disappointed.
* However * I had not known this book was the 4th in the series. I thought it was a standalone. So with that being said, my rating does not change but my perspective on the authors writing does.
Had this been a standalone, I would’ve said this was a poorly written book with world building, to allow you to fully understand what was going on in the book. I am going to assume that was done in the first 3 books… HOWEVER this book had zero character building whatever so ever.
Archer is the gym teacher drooling the 18 year old senior Adrianna. He keeps the same forceful attitude throughout the entire book, and you don’t get to see any side of him other than anger, until the very end, where he inevitably “falls in love” with her.
As for spice rating I would give this a 4 of 5. The main theme of the book was definitely, sex with a lot of sex scenes, however the scenes were very repetitive and almost cringy.
I almost DNF this book, when there was some confusion between characters, and the wrong name was used in tandem, for another character. *Editing mistakes. *
The author even wrote in her authors note that she was struggling creatively with this series, and it shows with this book.
Will I go back and read the 1st - 3rd books?
Unsure.
* However * I had not known this book was the 4th in the series. I thought it was a standalone. So with that being said, my rating does not change but my perspective on the authors writing does.
Had this been a standalone, I would’ve said this was a poorly written book with world building, to allow you to fully understand what was going on in the book. I am going to assume that was done in the first 3 books… HOWEVER this book had zero character building whatever so ever.
Archer is the gym teacher drooling the 18 year old senior Adrianna. He keeps the same forceful attitude throughout the entire book, and you don’t get to see any side of him other than anger, until the very end, where he inevitably “falls in love” with her.
As for spice rating I would give this a 4 of 5. The main theme of the book was definitely, sex with a lot of sex scenes, however the scenes were very repetitive and almost cringy.
I almost DNF this book, when there was some confusion between characters, and the wrong name was used in tandem, for another character. *Editing mistakes. *
The author even wrote in her authors note that she was struggling creatively with this series, and it shows with this book.
Will I go back and read the 1st - 3rd books?
Unsure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2023
Playing Dirty
Well I did it. I read the whole syndicate academy series and I am both happy and sad for it to be over. I really enjoyed this series and I definitely enjoyed this book. It wasn’t as good as Oak’s or Gav’s book but it was good.
Archer is a playboy at the school who actively pursues the 18 year old students. Adrianna is a student at the academy who is caught in Archers web. He has his site set on her and there is no obstacle he will allow to stand in his way to get her in his bed. Archer hires a private investigator to look into her and finds out some information. This info can get her killed and he uses it to blackmail her into his bed.
Now although I do not condone men blackmailing woman into to bed. I have to admit this book was HOT. Adrianna and Archer have this intense connection that they both fight before he even blackmails her. For a man who is a playboy, Archer falls hard and fast for Adrianna and she spends a major portion of the book both hating and loving the attention she gets from him. The spice was on point in this book and I would definitely recommend.
Well I did it. I read the whole syndicate academy series and I am both happy and sad for it to be over. I really enjoyed this series and I definitely enjoyed this book. It wasn’t as good as Oak’s or Gav’s book but it was good.
Archer is a playboy at the school who actively pursues the 18 year old students. Adrianna is a student at the academy who is caught in Archers web. He has his site set on her and there is no obstacle he will allow to stand in his way to get her in his bed. Archer hires a private investigator to look into her and finds out some information. This info can get her killed and he uses it to blackmail her into his bed.
Now although I do not condone men blackmailing woman into to bed. I have to admit this book was HOT. Adrianna and Archer have this intense connection that they both fight before he even blackmails her. For a man who is a playboy, Archer falls hard and fast for Adrianna and she spends a major portion of the book both hating and loving the attention she gets from him. The spice was on point in this book and I would definitely recommend.
February 3, 2023
This is a great addition to the Syndicate Academy when Archer and Adrianna dance around him wanting her and her denying his advances until the scales tip and things become something else. Archer is a teacher who takes a senior student each semester and Adrianna will not be another notch so they struggle back and forth. Adrianna has successfully stopped Archer for a much longer time then he thought so he knows he needs to play dirty to make her his. Overtime her hatred for him lessens but she’ll never admit it as she’s always only ever depended on herself and her plan to escape her family life after graduation is a plan that gets her into trouble. Adrianna is one strong woman who takes care of herself and her friends and Archer enjoys her strength. When Archer shows he cares for Adrianna she knows she’ll be able to use it against him and in the end it becomes to much to be without him. They way these two fight to be together or not is something you will not see coming! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2023
Loved this series and sad to see it end yet do hope that those that didn't get their story are at least able to get theirs later on down the track.
This book seems to have pushed a lot of buttons where Archers actions are concerned with him being a Predator and always finding a new young female student to unleash his male urges on and the way he manipulated Adrianna into giving in. The book had warnings and giving the fact that it is mafia / syndicate based there are going to be some not so nice situations if you are going to have issues with that then stick to plan old romance because this author doesn't need negative review's for the simple fact you didn't bother to read before the first chapter.
I loved Archer, and when you finally get to know his background, you can see why he does what he does and just needs the right woman to get him to grow up. Adrianna is far beyond her years and just wants out of being a show pony for her father to further his connections and does the unthinkable that could cost her her life.
This book seems to have pushed a lot of buttons where Archers actions are concerned with him being a Predator and always finding a new young female student to unleash his male urges on and the way he manipulated Adrianna into giving in. The book had warnings and giving the fact that it is mafia / syndicate based there are going to be some not so nice situations if you are going to have issues with that then stick to plan old romance because this author doesn't need negative review's for the simple fact you didn't bother to read before the first chapter.
I loved Archer, and when you finally get to know his background, you can see why he does what he does and just needs the right woman to get him to grow up. Adrianna is far beyond her years and just wants out of being a show pony for her father to further his connections and does the unthinkable that could cost her her life.
February 3, 2023
The title says it all, both characters played the game a bit dirty at times. I am glad that they found their way to each other at the end but it sure took a lot to get there.
Archer is a womanizer, we had known that from other books in the series. He is determined to get Adrianna even if he has to blackmail her to do it. He starts to fall for her and she ends up getting back at him for the blackmail. To the detriment of both.
I like (just like in the other books) that we get to see scenes played out with different characters. Gives all the stories just a bit more. The steam is great as usual with books by Bianca Cole but the story just didn't flow as well as the other stories. We got a happy ending but it just didn't seem as happy as the other endings in the series. I guess I was looking for more and it just didn't really happen.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Archer is a womanizer, we had known that from other books in the series. He is determined to get Adrianna even if he has to blackmail her to do it. He starts to fall for her and she ends up getting back at him for the blackmail. To the detriment of both.
I like (just like in the other books) that we get to see scenes played out with different characters. Gives all the stories just a bit more. The steam is great as usual with books by Bianca Cole but the story just didn't flow as well as the other stories. We got a happy ending but it just didn't seem as happy as the other endings in the series. I guess I was looking for more and it just didn't really happen.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2023
I’m not sure what I feel about this last book in the Syndicate Academy series. I really enjoyed Gav & Camilla’s story, & was really looking forward to Adrianna’s and Archer’s story but I felt the ending of this one was rushed. Another thing, I found several errors, especially w/the timeline & a couple chapters seemed to have been switched. I also wished Adrianna wasn’t so bullheaded & stubborn about her feelings for Archer. Yes I get him blackmailing her wasn’t exactly right, but i just didn’t like how she constantly lied about her feelings for him. They have intense & incredible chemistry, but her constant denial was annoying. It was a constant push/pull & than all of a sudden at the end she’s admitting her feelings & that she missed him.
I really love Bianca, but I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the others. This is still a fabulous series & I highly recommend it. And I am very excited & looking forward to her new series Once Upon a Villian coming out!
I really love Bianca, but I didn’t enjoy this book as much as the others. This is still a fabulous series & I highly recommend it. And I am very excited & looking forward to her new series Once Upon a Villian coming out!
February 7, 2023
Lots of noncon/dubcon. This story is concurrent/overlaps with other books in the series. Coach/Archer always gets the girls he sets his sights on, but Adrianna has every intention of staying as far from him as she can and not letting him have her because she knows how many girls he had dipped into. She lets a lot longer than he expects, but he has to work for it and then blackmail for the full deal. She is really less than nice, especially after feelings are involved on both sides (which she lies about repeatedly). I wish she would have not kept trying to do everything on her own and leaned on her friends a little. She lied to everyone regularly, including herself. Archer has some harsh realizations about the way he has done things after being on the other side of it. Good story and I have really liked the series so I am sad to see the end of it—at least the end for now.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 17, 2023
Archer is the coach at this unusual mafia academy. He has a history of choosing one senior every year that he will have an affair with. This year he has chosen Adrianna. Adrianna is a very tough, strong student who is great at sports and combat. Adrianna doesn’t want to be another notch on Archer’s bedpost. He pursues her relentlessly. Wherever she is he shows up. She is adamant about not getting involved with him since she is a virgin. However, she has a secret she is hiding and Archer discovered it and is blackmailing her.
This is the fourth book in this series. I felt out of the loop since I hadn’t read the previous three books and there was a lot of overlapping between them. I enjoyed this book but think I might have liked it more if I had read the previous three first. This book features a lot of steamy sex, coercion, dominance, and angst. This is an aged gap trope with a taboo forbidden romance of a teacher and student.
This is the fourth book in this series. I felt out of the loop since I hadn’t read the previous three books and there was a lot of overlapping between them. I enjoyed this book but think I might have liked it more if I had read the previous three first. This book features a lot of steamy sex, coercion, dominance, and angst. This is an aged gap trope with a taboo forbidden romance of a teacher and student.
July 1, 2025
This distorted me and then made me so happy their troubles were over
The book is beyond mind boiling and I couldn't put it down also They were back and forth with their feelings they also the tension was like crazy okay and I feel like neither 1 of them wanted to deal with their past or their families but then like that's what made them stronger I also feel like so sometimes they didn't know quite Understand that they were hurting each other instead of people around them it was very confusing but I loved every minute of it and I feel like they just needed more time I cried a lot but then I laughed a lot because of the way they acted some of it was immature and childish but it was done in a very tasteful way and yes this was a lot more mature than Other character stories but I I'm so happy they finally got their heavily ever after and I definitely Thought they were perfect for each other
The book is beyond mind boiling and I couldn't put it down also They were back and forth with their feelings they also the tension was like crazy okay and I feel like neither 1 of them wanted to deal with their past or their families but then like that's what made them stronger I also feel like so sometimes they didn't know quite Understand that they were hurting each other instead of people around them it was very confusing but I loved every minute of it and I feel like they just needed more time I cried a lot but then I laughed a lot because of the way they acted some of it was immature and childish but it was done in a very tasteful way and yes this was a lot more mature than Other character stories but I I'm so happy they finally got their heavily ever after and I definitely Thought they were perfect for each other
February 3, 2023
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the darkness in this book it was awesome, the storyline enemy to lovers, forbidden love, blackmail, how far would you go to be with the one? This story was about Archer and Adrianna, Adrianna is on her last year of The Syndicate Academy and her father has plans for her that she wants nothing to do with. Archer is a sports teacher for The Syndicate Academy as soon as he saw Adrianna he wanted her and he will make it happen. They both have secrets and it could cost them their lives and as soon as he found out her secret he hung it over her so she had to sleep with him.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the darkness in this book it was awesome, the storyline enemy to lovers, forbidden love, blackmail, how far would you go to be with the one? This story was about Archer and Adrianna, Adrianna is on her last year of The Syndicate Academy and her father has plans for her that she wants nothing to do with. Archer is a sports teacher for The Syndicate Academy as soon as he saw Adrianna he wanted her and he will make it happen. They both have secrets and it could cost them their lives and as soon as he found out her secret he hung it over her so she had to sleep with him.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2023
This last book in the Syndicate Academy series doesn’t disappoint!
I fell in love with Adrianna, a strong female protagonist who is treated like property by her family and another notch on the bed post by her coach, Archer. I hate Archer in the beginning for his harassment of Adrianna, and the lengths he goes to to get Adrianna in his bed. But as Adrianna learns something you don’t experience in the classroom from Archer, the dynamics seemingly switch between them. As graduation approaches, and Adrianna’s father setting the direction on her life, it’s more apparent that Archer will do anything to help Adrianna achieve her wish. How will it all end? You have to read to find out and don’t expect to put the book down until you turn the last page!
I fell in love with Adrianna, a strong female protagonist who is treated like property by her family and another notch on the bed post by her coach, Archer. I hate Archer in the beginning for his harassment of Adrianna, and the lengths he goes to to get Adrianna in his bed. But as Adrianna learns something you don’t experience in the classroom from Archer, the dynamics seemingly switch between them. As graduation approaches, and Adrianna’s father setting the direction on her life, it’s more apparent that Archer will do anything to help Adrianna achieve her wish. How will it all end? You have to read to find out and don’t expect to put the book down until you turn the last page!
February 9, 2023
Adrianna and Archer bring this SA series to an end.
Adrianna is a tough cookie who doesn’t take crap from anyone, male or female. She gives definite “strong, independent woman don’t need no man” vibes, and she’s not ashamed of it. She also keeps people at arms length to protect herself from hurt and heartbreak.
Naturally, it takes someone as pigheaded and stubborn as Archer to get her to give in just a little; he has no qualms about being underhanded and using a situation to his advantage. They are 2 sides of the same coin, & there is no better match for them than the other.
I feel like this story wrapped the series up nicely. Though it is a standalone, it is most appreciated in order to experience the different characters perspectives on some of the mutual situations.
Adrianna is a tough cookie who doesn’t take crap from anyone, male or female. She gives definite “strong, independent woman don’t need no man” vibes, and she’s not ashamed of it. She also keeps people at arms length to protect herself from hurt and heartbreak.
Naturally, it takes someone as pigheaded and stubborn as Archer to get her to give in just a little; he has no qualms about being underhanded and using a situation to his advantage. They are 2 sides of the same coin, & there is no better match for them than the other.
I feel like this story wrapped the series up nicely. Though it is a standalone, it is most appreciated in order to experience the different characters perspectives on some of the mutual situations.
February 9, 2023
Playing Dirty is fourth book in the Syndicate Academy Series and of all the men in the previous books, Coach Archer Daniel is the least likable. He picks a girl or 2 a year to pursue and conquer, then moves on. He's a player with a capital P. Adrianna is the daughter of the head of a Mexican Cartel and though she is in Archer's sights, she is determined to keep away from him. But he is determined and soon finds he wants more than a short liaison. Though not my favorite male lead of all these book, I loved Adrianna. This book is full of sizzle, steam, action, some drama, and more. All the books in this series are currently available on KU, so single read away.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2023
This story follows Adrianna and Archer. Archer aka coach is known for sleeping with his students before but he has zeroed in on Adrianna and he’s never wanted anyone more. Adrianna is determined not to hitch her wagon to that horse. Little does she know, she is consumes his every thought. He’s never had to work so hard to get a female’s attention. Adrianna is a mafia princess and she doesn’t take crap period. She’s feisty, strong, very smart and capable. She knows coach is obsessed with her but she‘s saving her first time for the man who deserves her and Archer is not that man. Then Archer comes at her with a proposal she can’t refuse.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2023
Review
Mafia academy romances have been my favorite and this book is the last book in series. The first books introduce both Adrianna and Arch and I had always been excited to read about them. It's truly that bianca Cole did not disappointed. I am her huge fan and I love her Mafia books.
This whole Mafia academy concept was new and great, the main leads were fabulous. The play boy teacher and cartel princess fought on with each other with great chemistry. It was a great enemies to lovers book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mafia academy romances have been my favorite and this book is the last book in series. The first books introduce both Adrianna and Arch and I had always been excited to read about them. It's truly that bianca Cole did not disappointed. I am her huge fan and I love her Mafia books.
This whole Mafia academy concept was new and great, the main leads were fabulous. The play boy teacher and cartel princess fought on with each other with great chemistry. It was a great enemies to lovers book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2023
I've been anxiously waiting for Archer and Adrianna's book since late last year when I started the Syndicate Academy series. Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed with this book. There were a few spelling errors, and several chapters were disjointed and the timeline was really off in them. This book felt very rushed, which is sad, because I thoroughly enjoyed the others.
If you're looking to finish out the series, you won't be disappointed. I just felt Archer and Adrianna's story was rushed, so the plot was a bit of a miss for me, but as always, I enjoyed the spice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you're looking to finish out the series, you won't be disappointed. I just felt Archer and Adrianna's story was rushed, so the plot was a bit of a miss for me, but as always, I enjoyed the spice.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2023
I’ve really enjoyed this series about the Syndicate Academy and now it’s Coach Archer and Adrianna turn. She knows how he chooses a couple of senior girls every year and she’s determined not to be another notch on his bedpost. They do this sensual dance as Archer keeps perusing Adrianna, she keeps resisting until she has no other choice. I love them together, they are two wounded souls who have fallen in love. Will he be able to save her from her family? Will he want to? Will their new relationship and love be strong enough to overcome any obstacle they face to live their lives their way?. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2023
I liked Archer and Adrianna's book, but I didn't love it; I loved the previous books in this series and wanted this to be as good. Archer was not the H that Bianca Cole usually gives us; if you have read any of her other work, you will know what I mean when I say the H are usually strong alphas, big personalities, and take no-nonsense MMC; Archer never felt that way. It was disjointed because it didn't feel like a Bianca Cole book. I don't know how else to describe it. Adrianna was a typical Bianca Cole h, part damsel in distress, but was strong when needed to be, the problem I had was that Archer seemed weak at times, and Adrianna overshadowed him.
February 7, 2023
Definitely dark with a lot of dubious situations so if that's not your vibe don't pick this up. buttttt if it is??? Boy are you in for a wild ride🔥🔥
I've really enjoyed each book in this series and throughout we got hints about what was going on with these two in the background so while it was a bit repetitive seeing scenes we've seen before just in there POVs I still found it different enough to keep me interested.
I also really enjoyed the whole blackmail aspect and heat level lmao
4/5 stars
I've really enjoyed each book in this series and throughout we got hints about what was going on with these two in the background so while it was a bit repetitive seeing scenes we've seen before just in there POVs I still found it different enough to keep me interested.
I also really enjoyed the whole blackmail aspect and heat level lmao
4/5 stars
February 1, 2023
SO SPICY!!
If your looking for an angsty, love-hate story with a highly engaging storyline and alluring characters then this book will be a delight.
Archer and Adrianna bantering and desire for one another will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. Get lost into another of the Mafia Academy’s books and enjoy this intriguing, enticing and gripping story.
Well done Bianca, these Mafia Academy men are so addictive.🙌🏻🔥🙌🏻🔥
If your looking for an angsty, love-hate story with a highly engaging storyline and alluring characters then this book will be a delight.
Archer and Adrianna bantering and desire for one another will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. Get lost into another of the Mafia Academy’s books and enjoy this intriguing, enticing and gripping story.
Well done Bianca, these Mafia Academy men are so addictive.🙌🏻🔥🙌🏻🔥
February 1, 2023
I thought this book was sizzling hot. The chemistry between Archer and Adrianna was scorching, but there is the taboo that they are teacher and student. Archer is determined to make Adrianna his - at least for the year until he catches feelings,. Adrianna doesn’t want to give in as Archer as quite the rep, and plus she has plans. I found this story dark, thrilling and entertaining.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest review.
I received a free advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest review.
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