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Hillside Kings #1
Hidden Scars
Hillside Academy should be the answer to her prayers. But, seventeen-year-old Khalani Martinez is still reeling from the pain of her brother's death. An elite private school, complete with trust fund snobs, is not going to relinquish her pain. You can take the girl off the streets, but the hard, cold truth of Arizona's Hillside streets and their unforgiving gangs will forever be a part of her.
High school heartthrob and football star, Aiden Sincere refuses to admit his feelings for the new, mysterious, Mexican girl who piques his interest. After all, he could have any girl at Hillside--and pretty much has. However, something about Khalani and her sassy mouth has him wanting more than their constant banter and detestation of one another. But when Aiden discovers who Khalani really is and uncovers the truth about her past, everything changes. Can he convince Khalani that her hidden scars are safe with him?
High school heartthrob and football star, Aiden Sincere refuses to admit his feelings for the new, mysterious, Mexican girl who piques his interest. After all, he could have any girl at Hillside--and pretty much has. However, something about Khalani and her sassy mouth has him wanting more than their constant banter and detestation of one another. But when Aiden discovers who Khalani really is and uncovers the truth about her past, everything changes. Can he convince Khalani that her hidden scars are safe with him?
Unknown Binding
First published April 14, 2022
574 people are currently reading
993 people want to read
About the author
Carmen Rosales
46 books652 followersCarmen Rosales is a best-selling Dark Romance and Latinx author. She loves to write in different genres of Romance and erotic horror under her alter ego, Delilah Croww. Beyond her writing, Carmen is a devoted mother who loves spending time with her loved ones. Join her VIP list to hear about her latest releases and giveaways at www.carmenrosales.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
April 22, 2022
The premise was intriguing but the execution fell flat for me. These characters gave me whiplash with how much they went back and forth from hating each other to the point of physical assault to wanting to tear each other's clothes off. I'm all for a bully romance but the connection between Khalani and Aiden was almost non existent for most of this book so it was more bullying and less romance. So then the parts that we were supposed to think Aiden was just SO in love with Khalani felt forced. And in all honesty his inner thoughts seemed really immature when he was thinking about Khalani which also made it hard to see any chemistry when really all he thought was that she was sexy and he wanted to fuck her. And in addition to that the ending turned him into an even bigger dick and we didn't really get redemption from that. At least not in my opinion. There definitely needed to be a lot more groveling from him.
January 6, 2023
Do you know what I hate?
I hate when the kindle recommends a read based on my reading history and it describes everything you’re looking for in the blurb and ends up being a doozy in the biggest way possible.
This had endless potential. Mexican cartel, high school bully romance, sassy heroine, it’s all here folks. But the execution…it did not hit the nail on the head.
Firstly, the bullying, what was the point? There wasn’t one. None whatsoever. Aiden was just an absolute twat waffle.
Secondly, Khalani. What an absolutely boring character. She had no personality, no interests other than hating life and no chemistry with the guy she’s hot for.
And lastly, the story, and before I rant, be warned.. THERE ARE SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️⬇️⬇️
SPOILERS I TELL YOU…
In what world does an extremely possessive, alpha, drug running, kingpin dick face, who doesn’t let the girl he’s into even dance with another man, have sex with her in the chauffeured car they’re in, while his friends watch. He doesn’t. Nope.
The whole story was just bizarre and so far fetched. And trust me I like far fetched. I’ve read The Boys of Brayshaw and adored them. But this this was reaching to be something it wasn’t.
Ugh thanks Kindle. Never listening to your recommendations again.
I hate when the kindle recommends a read based on my reading history and it describes everything you’re looking for in the blurb and ends up being a doozy in the biggest way possible.
This had endless potential. Mexican cartel, high school bully romance, sassy heroine, it’s all here folks. But the execution…it did not hit the nail on the head.
Firstly, the bullying, what was the point? There wasn’t one. None whatsoever. Aiden was just an absolute twat waffle.
Secondly, Khalani. What an absolutely boring character. She had no personality, no interests other than hating life and no chemistry with the guy she’s hot for.
And lastly, the story, and before I rant, be warned.. THERE ARE SPOILERS BELOW ⬇️⬇️⬇️
SPOILERS I TELL YOU…
In what world does an extremely possessive, alpha, drug running, kingpin dick face, who doesn’t let the girl he’s into even dance with another man, have sex with her in the chauffeured car they’re in, while his friends watch. He doesn’t. Nope.
The whole story was just bizarre and so far fetched. And trust me I like far fetched. I’ve read The Boys of Brayshaw and adored them. But this this was reaching to be something it wasn’t.
Ugh thanks Kindle. Never listening to your recommendations again.
dnf
November 8, 2022Too on the nose with the stereotypes… what happened to nuance and subtlety?….. maybe more showing and less telling?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 10, 2022
I really loved this enemies-to-lovers with some dark mafia elements to it.
Khalani Martinez is a very smart girl that comes from the wrong side of the tracks and goes to the rich school on a scholarship and ends up butting heads with all the popular kids, except for Devin and Lucy. Lucy happens to be Aiden's twin sister and Aiden makes Khalani's life a living hell along with all the rest of the popular kids.
But as school progresses Aiden starts finding out things about Khalani and starts harboring feelings for her but at the same time he likes to humiliate her. His father has an agenda and he can't figure out what it is, but he's bound to find out what it is and Khalani is behind this agenda.
There are secrets behind everyone's life and reading this story really had me intrigued and I was hooked from page 1. I just couldn't find myself putting this book down and even though Aiden really had me wanting to throw my device several times, I also loved him for redeeming himself in the end. Khalani also had me wanting to scream at her at times for being weak when it came down to Aiden, I get it he was this alpha male that had her weak in the knees, but damn, she could have had more confidence in herself and be a little stronger when it came down to him. But I get her, men make women weak .
I still loved the book and I loved the whole story and I still give it 5 stars for how much I couldn't find myself to put it down -- literally! Now, I am sitting here finding myself lost and wishing I could read Lucy and Mason's story like RIGHT NOW!! Carmen, please hurry with their story!!
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
Khalani Martinez is a very smart girl that comes from the wrong side of the tracks and goes to the rich school on a scholarship and ends up butting heads with all the popular kids, except for Devin and Lucy. Lucy happens to be Aiden's twin sister and Aiden makes Khalani's life a living hell along with all the rest of the popular kids.
But as school progresses Aiden starts finding out things about Khalani and starts harboring feelings for her but at the same time he likes to humiliate her. His father has an agenda and he can't figure out what it is, but he's bound to find out what it is and Khalani is behind this agenda.
There are secrets behind everyone's life and reading this story really had me intrigued and I was hooked from page 1. I just couldn't find myself putting this book down and even though Aiden really had me wanting to throw my device several times, I also loved him for redeeming himself in the end. Khalani also had me wanting to scream at her at times for being weak when it came down to Aiden, I get it he was this alpha male that had her weak in the knees, but damn, she could have had more confidence in herself and be a little stronger when it came down to him. But I get her, men make women weak .
I still loved the book and I loved the whole story and I still give it 5 stars for how much I couldn't find myself to put it down -- literally! Now, I am sitting here finding myself lost and wishing I could read Lucy and Mason's story like RIGHT NOW!! Carmen, please hurry with their story!!
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
January 4, 2023
Please take this review with a grain of salt, these are my own opinions. If you decide you still want to read Hidden Scars, then go right ahead. I honestly struggled to rate this book, between 2 and 3 stars. But first, make sure you check the trigger warnings, there's a lot of heavy bullying, m*rder (dec@pitation), depression, self-h@rm(c*tting), grief, Vo¥eurism (MFM), and more.
Let me begin by saying, I enjoy the musical aspect of it, with Khalani being a lover of music. Her love and admiration for her older brother made Khalani's character that bit more relatable. And I especially appreciated that the characters spoke Spanish. Especially in a mafia romance, since most I've come across tend to speak Italian or Russian. I loved Alex's protectiveness, how mature and understanding Leo was, and her friendship with Lucy.
Despite that, I decided to give this book 2 stars. Why do you ask? Well, let me explain. This book had a good storyline but had it been developed some more, with a bit more detail and a better flow, then maybe I would have given it 3 stars. There were times when I feel like some plot points were just randomly thrown into the story to try and spice things up. At times it was difficult for me to imagine that both Khalani and Aiden were seniors in high school. Most of all, I felt like Khalani's self-harm was almost dismissed at the beginning by her high school before going to attend Hillside Academy.
Now as for the relationship between Aiden and Khalani, to me it was way too toxic and not in the forgivable or smexy way, and yes I know it's just fiction. Throughout the entire book, I spent it wishing she would have ended up better with Alex or even Leo.
As for Aiden, he seemed like such an immature boy. The number of times he would say he wanted Khalani and would protect her, then he would turn around and bully/humiliate, cheat, or ghost her without an explanation just became tiresome to read. And the way he blamed her for things that weren't even her fault made me enjoy the book even less. More so the times Khalani forgave him when he would "apologize". Though at least he somewhat would recognize he was wrong at times. I honestly spent the entire book hating Aiden until maybe the last 10%, and even then I wish Khalani would have made him grovel a lot more than he did.
I wish that the situation with Aiden's father would have been expanded. Again these are my own opinions, so please no hate. Maybe I missed something or should have just DNFed this book, but it just wasn't a book for me. That being said, please draw your conclusions and make sure to check the trigger warnings for your mental health.
Let me begin by saying, I enjoy the musical aspect of it, with Khalani being a lover of music. Her love and admiration for her older brother made Khalani's character that bit more relatable. And I especially appreciated that the characters spoke Spanish. Especially in a mafia romance, since most I've come across tend to speak Italian or Russian. I loved Alex's protectiveness, how mature and understanding Leo was, and her friendship with Lucy.
Despite that, I decided to give this book 2 stars. Why do you ask? Well, let me explain. This book had a good storyline but had it been developed some more, with a bit more detail and a better flow, then maybe I would have given it 3 stars. There were times when I feel like some plot points were just randomly thrown into the story to try and spice things up. At times it was difficult for me to imagine that both Khalani and Aiden were seniors in high school. Most of all, I felt like Khalani's self-harm was almost dismissed at the beginning by her high school before going to attend Hillside Academy.
Now as for the relationship between Aiden and Khalani, to me it was way too toxic and not in the forgivable or smexy way, and yes I know it's just fiction. Throughout the entire book, I spent it wishing she would have ended up better with Alex or even Leo.
As for Aiden, he seemed like such an immature boy. The number of times he would say he wanted Khalani and would protect her, then he would turn around and bully/humiliate, cheat, or ghost her without an explanation just became tiresome to read. And the way he blamed her for things that weren't even her fault made me enjoy the book even less. More so the times Khalani forgave him when he would "apologize". Though at least he somewhat would recognize he was wrong at times. I honestly spent the entire book hating Aiden until maybe the last 10%, and even then I wish Khalani would have made him grovel a lot more than he did.
I wish that the situation with Aiden's father would have been expanded. Again these are my own opinions, so please no hate. Maybe I missed something or should have just DNFed this book, but it just wasn't a book for me. That being said, please draw your conclusions and make sure to check the trigger warnings for your mental health.
July 13, 2022
10/10 Recommended Reading
This is my first read by Carmen and Wow just Wow this book was 🙌🙌 so damn good!! I literally couldn’t put it down I devoured it in one sitting. I’m always one for gangs, cartel reads.
This book is definitely different and soo good.
Khalani the FMC is Latina and I haven’t read many books with a strong FMC that is Latina and I love this!! 🙌🙌 she is broken from losing her brother and pain like that is hard especially when your grieving. She has her own demons to slay but she’s also the light someone else needs. she may seem all innocent and sweet but girl has some fire in her for sure!
Aiden is definitely an alphahole that will make you mad more times than you can count. He will also win you over in the end. And boy I was hooked for him and his boys.
I can’t wait for Lucy’s story to be told.
This book is definitely dark and you should take the trigger warnings into consideration if you find the subject sensitive.
This is my first read by Carmen and Wow just Wow this book was 🙌🙌 so damn good!! I literally couldn’t put it down I devoured it in one sitting. I’m always one for gangs, cartel reads.
This book is definitely different and soo good.
Khalani the FMC is Latina and I haven’t read many books with a strong FMC that is Latina and I love this!! 🙌🙌 she is broken from losing her brother and pain like that is hard especially when your grieving. She has her own demons to slay but she’s also the light someone else needs. she may seem all innocent and sweet but girl has some fire in her for sure!
Aiden is definitely an alphahole that will make you mad more times than you can count. He will also win you over in the end. And boy I was hooked for him and his boys.
I can’t wait for Lucy’s story to be told.
This book is definitely dark and you should take the trigger warnings into consideration if you find the subject sensitive.
March 31, 2022
This enemies-to-lovers romance is an intriuing story about a pair of opposites that meet in their last year of high school and carry secrets that neither would choose to disclose ever. Khalani and Aiden's first interactions are marked in distain but over time neither can avoid the other as Lucy (Aiden's sister) becomes Khalani's friend. Thus, their connections becomes deeper and secrets become revealed.
This new adult romance has a bit of a dark setting as well as a suspenseful and erotic element that some would be cautious since there are some forms of violence and triggers such as bullying.
If you're okay with reading this literary tone, I would recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This new adult romance has a bit of a dark setting as well as a suspenseful and erotic element that some would be cautious since there are some forms of violence and triggers such as bullying.
If you're okay with reading this literary tone, I would recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2023
When the author tells the reader beforehand to give the male MC patience, listen. He was so infuriating with his back & forth. There were moments I was rooting for Alex (he’s more my thing) and not our MC Aiden, but I came around to the HEA. I loved Khalaini and her hard exterior. We need more strong willed female mc’s to even out the dark romance. Or I do at least.
May 6, 2022
I had a lot of problems with this book and ended up skimming a lot of it. A lot.
Things I did love: the MCs are Mexican/of Mexican descent. Wasn't too sure about how they were represented here but at least they were representing.
Things I did not love:
1) The errors. Lots and lots of errors. This needs serious proofreading. Lots of typos and syntax errors. Lots of just wording errors. Also, lots of awkward phrasing as well such as:
They say the devil walks the earth, and in my case, I have lived with him since the day I was born, protecting my sister and mother from evil. A demon of his making, protecting my sister and mother from evil.
2) The characters in general. It's made clear from the trigger warning and the initial chapter that the MC female is a cutter. Interestingly enough, I found that though she no longer cuts (she goes through therapy and fights the impulse) her relationship to the male MC was probably another version of being cut.
From day 1 of school, he and his followers call her wh*re, c*nt, and every thing you can imagine. From day 1 of school, she's seriously turned on by him. This continues through most of the book.
So yeah, she stopped cutting but then she ends up with a guy who emotionally and verbally cuts her every time.
And nothing to do with so much this book but this particular approach to this genre, why is it that the latino/hispanic "drug dealer" that is (aside from the drug dealing part) really awesome (and not in a boring way) is always shunted aside for the supreme ahole that really isn't as interesting. Anyway, the way the female lead kept panting after the male lead no matter how he and his friends/girlfriends treated her was what just made this a pretty strong no for me. It was just really embarrassing watching her pant after him continuously no matter what he did or said.
Things I did love: the MCs are Mexican/of Mexican descent. Wasn't too sure about how they were represented here but at least they were representing.
Things I did not love:
1) The errors. Lots and lots of errors. This needs serious proofreading. Lots of typos and syntax errors. Lots of just wording errors. Also, lots of awkward phrasing as well such as:
They say the devil walks the earth, and in my case, I have lived with him since the day I was born, protecting my sister and mother from evil. A demon of his making, protecting my sister and mother from evil.
2) The characters in general. It's made clear from the trigger warning and the initial chapter that the MC female is a cutter. Interestingly enough, I found that though she no longer cuts (she goes through therapy and fights the impulse) her relationship to the male MC was probably another version of being cut.
From day 1 of school, he and his followers call her wh*re, c*nt, and every thing you can imagine. From day 1 of school, she's seriously turned on by him. This continues through most of the book.
So yeah, she stopped cutting but then she ends up with a guy who emotionally and verbally cuts her every time.
And nothing to do with so much this book but this particular approach to this genre, why is it that the latino/hispanic "drug dealer" that is (aside from the drug dealing part) really awesome (and not in a boring way) is always shunted aside for the supreme ahole that really isn't as interesting. Anyway, the way the female lead kept panting after the male lead no matter how he and his friends/girlfriends treated her was what just made this a pretty strong no for me. It was just really embarrassing watching her pant after him continuously no matter what he did or said.
April 2, 2022
This was a really emotional dark romance book i read. It is well-written and I enjoyed very much reading this book. I like the spacing of each chapter and it made me want to continue to read this book. The characters, plot, background information is well-worked into the story and I never thought it was too dark and twisty. I believe it was also moments that I did get a teary eye for both characters but I understood why they took those measures. Anyways, overall well done.
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.
April 14, 2022
I Couldn't Get Enough
Best dark high bully romance ever!!!! Period!! This enemies to lovers will have you devouring the pages. I am hooked. I kid you not! I could not get enough of Khalani and Aiden. The tension between these two is undeniable. Their interactions will have you screaming. Did I mention that Khalani and Aiden are both connected to different Cartels? Hidden Scars is one intense book that I highly recommend you read.
Best dark high bully romance ever!!!! Period!! This enemies to lovers will have you devouring the pages. I am hooked. I kid you not! I could not get enough of Khalani and Aiden. The tension between these two is undeniable. Their interactions will have you screaming. Did I mention that Khalani and Aiden are both connected to different Cartels? Hidden Scars is one intense book that I highly recommend you read.
March 31, 2022
I didn't want to love this story but I couldn't help it. Damaged characters, including dark broody bully types, creep into your heart like ninjas and take up residence without your permission. This is what happens with this story. The characters were beautifully drawn, the pacing wavered occasionally but the narrative arc pulled it through. Great read!.
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.
April 3, 2022
I thought his story was entertaining and emotional. I really like Khalani and really felt for her. I felt for Aiden as well though I wasn’t entirely sure about him in the beginning. These two had such a hard road to travel, but you can’t help to be root for them.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest review.
I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest review.
March 27, 2022
This was an intense and emotional read. Khalani and Aiden's story had me in a very firm grip that made it incredible hard to try to disengage and distance myself from it. My heart bled for Khalani, and I felt a deep connection to her on several levels. It took me a while to warm up to Aiden, but I did, and I ended up liking him a lot. together, they made a couple I felt fiercely invested in and only wanted the best for. I am freely posting a frank review.
hard-dnf
April 29, 2025This is badly written
November 12, 2025
Jesus Joseph Jeffery Jonathan Christ 😮💨 I just...omg. I can't believe I read the whole thing 🤦🏼♀️ Where do I even start? So years ago, I read an ARC for Carmen Rosales duet "He loves me /He loves me not" and while it was mostly a hot mess, there were several things that I intrigued me and stuck out to me. So when I was wanting a spicy highschool bully romance, I decided to give this one a go. I think the duet was actually written AFTER this book, something I wish I would have researched ahead of time, but alas, here we are.
So this story is almost EXACTLY the same as the duet. Everything about it. The girl from the wrong side of the tracks goes to an elite school, the rich, manwhore male lead, the gangster friend who is romantically interested in the heroine, the evil dad....ALL OF IT! I could tell where the book was going and what was likely to happen because it was so insanely similar. The things that intrigued me about the duet were not done or done in a way that didn't work in this book, so I guess the good news is she ironed that stuff out, the bad news is that made this book suck 10x worse.
The thing that she hasn't seemed to manage to figure out in this book or the last is the editing. Again, I'm not a stickler for typos and such, so if *I* notice it, it's pretty bad. Names spelled wrong, quotations in the wrong place, the wrong names sometimes, punctuation like a world scramble, just total disaster. The other thing decent editing or maybe even co-writing would do for this author is help her figure out more realistic and natural transitions and timelines. The characters flipped emotions on a dime for completely inexplicable reasons and it wasn't just like messy drama, although there DEFINITELY was that, but it was like the author just wanted to fit shit in the book and didn't care to figure out how to explain its presence. The heroine wasn't supposed to be a doormat character, at first she's painted as this emo hard ass whose been through all this pain, except she literally lets the H go through more mood swings than Britney Spears unmedicated on a 5 day coke bender and just...does absolutely NOTHING, like he doesn't even attempt to grovel, one second she's like "I hate him for life" and then he's like "get in the car!" and she's like "pssh, fine!" and then they're fucking again with no explanation or relationship building or anything. He may be the very worst H ever in the sense that I don't believe a single thing he tells her. He goes from loving and protecting her to at 80% of the book, to suddenly willing to let her die simply because he finds out who her father is, keep in mind, the heroine doesn't even know, has never had contact with him, is in no way associated with him other than they have the same DNA! And it takes NOTHING for him to get her back! The h only puts up token resistance to him, he never even had to grovel! The back and forth emotional whiplash is beyond exhausting and means you can never fully invest any real emotion into the book because it feels so unbelievable. The H commits beyond the pale actions MULTIPLE times and any time you think he can't get worse, he somehow finds a new low. Which is okay, if you can make me believe it in the context of the book world. Like there's dark romance and bully romance and then there's "doesn't even care about you enough to protect you any more and some other guy has to save you" What even was that?? 🤦🏼♀️ Which brings me to the the sharing scene. The other duet ALSO had a sharing scene done at the end, but the execution on that was 💯 better, so I guess I'm glad I know the author does eventually progress at least, but in THIS book, while the scene itself was hot, it made NO SENSE in the context of the book! The 4 guys all share all the girls all the time, so sharing her partially with a buddy just wasn't the big sacrificial, evening-the-score act they tried to make it out to be and it was basically just there for a hot threesome scene.
It's really a shame, because at the core of these books is actually a decent story, but the unrealistic back and forth drama that is never really resolved bogs it down to being near unreadable. If I see the author has made some serious relationship development improvements in a future book, I'd be interested in possibly trying it, but there would have to be significant writing style changes for me to consider giving it another go.
So this story is almost EXACTLY the same as the duet. Everything about it. The girl from the wrong side of the tracks goes to an elite school, the rich, manwhore male lead, the gangster friend who is romantically interested in the heroine, the evil dad....ALL OF IT! I could tell where the book was going and what was likely to happen because it was so insanely similar. The things that intrigued me about the duet were not done or done in a way that didn't work in this book, so I guess the good news is she ironed that stuff out, the bad news is that made this book suck 10x worse.
The thing that she hasn't seemed to manage to figure out in this book or the last is the editing. Again, I'm not a stickler for typos and such, so if *I* notice it, it's pretty bad. Names spelled wrong, quotations in the wrong place, the wrong names sometimes, punctuation like a world scramble, just total disaster. The other thing decent editing or maybe even co-writing would do for this author is help her figure out more realistic and natural transitions and timelines. The characters flipped emotions on a dime for completely inexplicable reasons and it wasn't just like messy drama, although there DEFINITELY was that, but it was like the author just wanted to fit shit in the book and didn't care to figure out how to explain its presence. The heroine wasn't supposed to be a doormat character, at first she's painted as this emo hard ass whose been through all this pain, except she literally lets the H go through more mood swings than Britney Spears unmedicated on a 5 day coke bender and just...does absolutely NOTHING, like he doesn't even attempt to grovel, one second she's like "I hate him for life" and then he's like "get in the car!" and she's like "pssh, fine!" and then they're fucking again with no explanation or relationship building or anything. He may be the very worst H ever in the sense that I don't believe a single thing he tells her. He goes from loving and protecting her to at 80% of the book, to suddenly willing to let her die simply because he finds out who her father is, keep in mind, the heroine doesn't even know, has never had contact with him, is in no way associated with him other than they have the same DNA! And it takes NOTHING for him to get her back! The h only puts up token resistance to him, he never even had to grovel! The back and forth emotional whiplash is beyond exhausting and means you can never fully invest any real emotion into the book because it feels so unbelievable. The H commits beyond the pale actions MULTIPLE times and any time you think he can't get worse, he somehow finds a new low. Which is okay, if you can make me believe it in the context of the book world. Like there's dark romance and bully romance and then there's "doesn't even care about you enough to protect you any more and some other guy has to save you" What even was that?? 🤦🏼♀️ Which brings me to the the sharing scene. The other duet ALSO had a sharing scene done at the end, but the execution on that was 💯 better, so I guess I'm glad I know the author does eventually progress at least, but in THIS book, while the scene itself was hot, it made NO SENSE in the context of the book! The 4 guys all share all the girls all the time, so sharing her partially with a buddy just wasn't the big sacrificial, evening-the-score act they tried to make it out to be and it was basically just there for a hot threesome scene.
It's really a shame, because at the core of these books is actually a decent story, but the unrealistic back and forth drama that is never really resolved bogs it down to being near unreadable. If I see the author has made some serious relationship development improvements in a future book, I'd be interested in possibly trying it, but there would have to be significant writing style changes for me to consider giving it another go.
February 26, 2025
I read book 4 in this series first and loved it so much I knew I needed to start at book 1 and see where everything started. And damn I can’t say enough how much I loved this one. Everything was addicting and gripping. Like book 4, I was hooked from the start and didn’t want to put it down. Khalani was a character you couldn’t help but love and root for. My heart broke for the pain she felt of losing her brother and the incredible relationship they obviously had. I loved how Alex and Linda were there for her and how Alex was quick to protect her. I do wish that he would’ve had the same level of power that Aiden had so that when all the horrible things that were being said and done to Khalani came out Alex could’ve really had Aiden scared. There were so many times I really hated Aiden and what he was doing to Khalani, especially after they had gotten together. He was a character you loved and hated, he made me want to throw my phone and scream out loud. I found it disgusting, and I honestly was surprised how after he professed his regret for hurting Khalani and told her how he felt, that when he learned who her real father was he didn’t want anything to do with her and didn’t care what happened to her. He even went as far as giving everything he bought her to Jessica and made a huge scene that he was with Jessica by kissing her in front of Khalani. And when he told Leo he could have her, I wanted to seriously punch the f*** out of him and was smiling when Leo actually did. I couldn’t have been more happier than when Leo, not Devin, not Ricky or Richy or even Lucy, no it was Leo who basically said screw you to Aiden and stood up for her. He saved her from being almost killed, took her to his house, cared for her and held her all night when she cried. I was seriously surprised and glad she had him. And I was equally disappointed in Lucy for dropping her and following her brothers orders to stop talking to Khalani.
I wanted and wished Khalani had been a little firmer and made Aiden grovel a hell of a lot more and prove himself, but I was wanting to high five her for when she actually did lay into him and let him have it for going to Jessica and attempting to have sex with her and how she loved him and that when you love someone you don’t turn to someone else or allow them to touch you. I think Leo was incredible and I can’t wait to see him get his forever girl!
This book was absolutely incredible and I freaking loved it so much!! I can’t wait for Lucy and Mason next- and I’m already prepared for the ow drama, because it’s obvious from books 1 & 4 that these guys are major players and manw*ores! But I’m ready for it!!
I wanted and wished Khalani had been a little firmer and made Aiden grovel a hell of a lot more and prove himself, but I was wanting to high five her for when she actually did lay into him and let him have it for going to Jessica and attempting to have sex with her and how she loved him and that when you love someone you don’t turn to someone else or allow them to touch you. I think Leo was incredible and I can’t wait to see him get his forever girl!
This book was absolutely incredible and I freaking loved it so much!! I can’t wait for Lucy and Mason next- and I’m already prepared for the ow drama, because it’s obvious from books 1 & 4 that these guys are major players and manw*ores! But I’m ready for it!!
April 15, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 Plot
🌶🌶🌶/5 Spicy
💃💃💃💃/Characters
Oof, this was dark. Please check your trigger warnings. Reading this gave me the same vibe as watching Elite (Netflix), and it had some of those elements as well.
The story follows Khalani. After her brother's death, which she is still processing, she was granted a scholarship to attend a private school - a high school 😬. Listen, why do all bully romances take place in high school? lol I always picture these characters older than they are written. Anyways, that is a me issue. Her brother was a gang leader, granting her protection in her city. But in HS, she was treated like trash by the four guys who ruled the school. The primary source of the bullying came from Aiden. He was ruthless and, honestly, harsh sometimes for no good reason. She becomes friends with his sister, and forced proximity brings all their dark secrets to life. They are more connected than they thought.
I enjoyed the diversity of this book. Our FMC (Khalani) is Mexican American and is proud of it! She is intelligent, headstrong, but deeply troubled. Our MMC (Aiden)...I loathed him lol. Eventually, I grew to like him, but he made me want to break my kindle. I absolutely hated how the FMC would forgive Aiden so quickly, and the resolve was always 🌶. Like, my girl, how are you so independent but so weak for this man who doesn't deserve you? Make him grovel! The only expectation of this was the 🪞 scene with Leo. I LOVED Leo, low key..would have been interested to see where that would have gone 👀. It helped having Aiden's POV. I wish he would have shared his inner monologs with Khalani. They both have the same mentality and could have been a power couple from the beginning if they could just communicate.
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this book 😂. It made me angry, sad, annoyed but also happy. I couldn't put it down even if I wanted to.
If a story makes you question anything you feel, it was an experience. Which means it was a good book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
🌶🌶🌶/5 Spicy
💃💃💃💃/Characters
Oof, this was dark. Please check your trigger warnings. Reading this gave me the same vibe as watching Elite (Netflix), and it had some of those elements as well.
The story follows Khalani. After her brother's death, which she is still processing, she was granted a scholarship to attend a private school - a high school 😬. Listen, why do all bully romances take place in high school? lol I always picture these characters older than they are written. Anyways, that is a me issue. Her brother was a gang leader, granting her protection in her city. But in HS, she was treated like trash by the four guys who ruled the school. The primary source of the bullying came from Aiden. He was ruthless and, honestly, harsh sometimes for no good reason. She becomes friends with his sister, and forced proximity brings all their dark secrets to life. They are more connected than they thought.
I enjoyed the diversity of this book. Our FMC (Khalani) is Mexican American and is proud of it! She is intelligent, headstrong, but deeply troubled. Our MMC (Aiden)...I loathed him lol. Eventually, I grew to like him, but he made me want to break my kindle. I absolutely hated how the FMC would forgive Aiden so quickly, and the resolve was always 🌶. Like, my girl, how are you so independent but so weak for this man who doesn't deserve you? Make him grovel! The only expectation of this was the 🪞 scene with Leo. I LOVED Leo, low key..would have been interested to see where that would have gone 👀. It helped having Aiden's POV. I wish he would have shared his inner monologs with Khalani. They both have the same mentality and could have been a power couple from the beginning if they could just communicate.
Overall, I have mixed feelings about this book 😂. It made me angry, sad, annoyed but also happy. I couldn't put it down even if I wanted to.
If a story makes you question anything you feel, it was an experience. Which means it was a good book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 14, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Hillside Academy should be the answer to her prayers. But, seventeen year old Khalani Martinez is still reeling from the pain of her brother's death. An elite private school, complete with trust fund snobs, is not going to relinquish her pain. You can take the girl off the streets, but the hard, cold truth of Arizona's Hillside streets and their unforgiving gangs will forever be a part of her.
High school heartthrob and football star, Aiden Sincere refuses to admit his feelings for the new, mysterious, Mexican girl who piques his interest. After all, he could have any girl at Hillside-and pretty much has. However, something about Khalani and her sassy mouth has him wanting more than their detestation of one another. But when Aiden discovers who Khalani really is and uncovers the truth about her past, everything changes. Can he convince Khalani that her hidden scars are safe with him?
This is a enemies to lovers book that is dark and will contain some triggers for some readers as ther is some bullying in this book. It is absolutely amazing. To say that Aiden are complete opposites is a understatement. He is the quarterback of his private elite high school and she is the girl who learned on the streets around the gangs in the Arizona Hillside streets. This is their last year of high school but it is Khalani's first year at this school. However they both carry around some serious secrets that neither one of them would ever reveal to the other or anyone for that matter. When they have their first meeting they really do not like each other at all. But, it isn't long until Aiden can't stop thinking about her and his sister Lucy becomes Khalani;s best friend. This is the beginning of their connection growing stronger and secrets will be spilling. I loved ever second of reading this book and I couldn't lay it down. You do not want to miss this book.
Hillside Academy should be the answer to her prayers. But, seventeen year old Khalani Martinez is still reeling from the pain of her brother's death. An elite private school, complete with trust fund snobs, is not going to relinquish her pain. You can take the girl off the streets, but the hard, cold truth of Arizona's Hillside streets and their unforgiving gangs will forever be a part of her.
High school heartthrob and football star, Aiden Sincere refuses to admit his feelings for the new, mysterious, Mexican girl who piques his interest. After all, he could have any girl at Hillside-and pretty much has. However, something about Khalani and her sassy mouth has him wanting more than their detestation of one another. But when Aiden discovers who Khalani really is and uncovers the truth about her past, everything changes. Can he convince Khalani that her hidden scars are safe with him?
This is a enemies to lovers book that is dark and will contain some triggers for some readers as ther is some bullying in this book. It is absolutely amazing. To say that Aiden are complete opposites is a understatement. He is the quarterback of his private elite high school and she is the girl who learned on the streets around the gangs in the Arizona Hillside streets. This is their last year of high school but it is Khalani's first year at this school. However they both carry around some serious secrets that neither one of them would ever reveal to the other or anyone for that matter. When they have their first meeting they really do not like each other at all. But, it isn't long until Aiden can't stop thinking about her and his sister Lucy becomes Khalani;s best friend. This is the beginning of their connection growing stronger and secrets will be spilling. I loved ever second of reading this book and I couldn't lay it down. You do not want to miss this book.
April 14, 2022
3.5 Stars-Still Deciding on This One...
In Hidden Scars, the first book of the series, we learn about the Hillside Kings and thier inner-workings through the leaders sister, Khalani.
Khalani, her brother and her mother live in Arizona and her brother is the leader of that Hillside Kings chapter. After a terrible tragedy, Khalani finds her life turned upside down and now she's got to right the ship all while protecting herself. I liked the no nonsense aspect about Khalani, well what she showed towards the beginning of the book, however when Aiden steps in, all of her sensibility seemed to fly out the window.
Aiden is horrible from the get go. He is a rich, privileged a-hole that had zero redeeming qualities about him. I really wanted to end up liking him by the end of the book, but I'm not sure that I did. He was awful and how or why Khalani put up with it I'll never understand. Of course there is a reason he's that way and the reason didn't really change my mind about him. While it seems like these two were on completely different paths when they met, it's quite the opposite.
The premise of Hidden Scars is good and I liked the storyline, however it felt like it was written about an older crowd, not kids in high school. I had a hard time wrapping my head around these kids with full tattoo sleeves and tats up to thier neck. Same with the situations, it was hard to imagine kids (which is really what they are) involved in such serious criminal activity. I don't know, maybe I was reading with a naïve attitude, either way it didn't sit well with me. Hidden Scars kicks off the series and it looks like Aiden's friend Mason will be the star of the next book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
In Hidden Scars, the first book of the series, we learn about the Hillside Kings and thier inner-workings through the leaders sister, Khalani.
Khalani, her brother and her mother live in Arizona and her brother is the leader of that Hillside Kings chapter. After a terrible tragedy, Khalani finds her life turned upside down and now she's got to right the ship all while protecting herself. I liked the no nonsense aspect about Khalani, well what she showed towards the beginning of the book, however when Aiden steps in, all of her sensibility seemed to fly out the window.
Aiden is horrible from the get go. He is a rich, privileged a-hole that had zero redeeming qualities about him. I really wanted to end up liking him by the end of the book, but I'm not sure that I did. He was awful and how or why Khalani put up with it I'll never understand. Of course there is a reason he's that way and the reason didn't really change my mind about him. While it seems like these two were on completely different paths when they met, it's quite the opposite.
The premise of Hidden Scars is good and I liked the storyline, however it felt like it was written about an older crowd, not kids in high school. I had a hard time wrapping my head around these kids with full tattoo sleeves and tats up to thier neck. Same with the situations, it was hard to imagine kids (which is really what they are) involved in such serious criminal activity. I don't know, maybe I was reading with a naïve attitude, either way it didn't sit well with me. Hidden Scars kicks off the series and it looks like Aiden's friend Mason will be the star of the next book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
April 11, 2022
It's evident the moment she wanders onto campus that Khalani Martinez doesn't belong at Hillside Academy, she has wrong side of the tracks written all over her. But that doesn't seem to deter his interest in her, she's beautiful, feisty, and his complete opposite, and a temptation he cannot ignore. But if that's the case then why does she seem so totally perfect for him?
The pages of Hidden Scars hold a dark and emotionally charged story about two teens who have complicated lives and are struggling to find their way. One is dealing with the loss of a family and trying to find the fresh start she craves, and the other has a home life that has left him scarred and wary of everyone around him. These two are complete opposites in about every way and seemingly not a good match, but that isn't the case at all... they find something in one another that makes perfect sense. It just takes some time to find it.
This one put a special kind of torture on the heart, there was a heaviness to it's words that really took a toll on my emotions, but it was totally worth every ounce of pain. You couldn't help but feel for these two and all they had to endure to get to their happily ever after/ Their story had many painful moments, but every now and then there were moments that were lighter and gave hope too. It was such a wonderfully constructed story, a first time read that impressed on all fronts! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
The pages of Hidden Scars hold a dark and emotionally charged story about two teens who have complicated lives and are struggling to find their way. One is dealing with the loss of a family and trying to find the fresh start she craves, and the other has a home life that has left him scarred and wary of everyone around him. These two are complete opposites in about every way and seemingly not a good match, but that isn't the case at all... they find something in one another that makes perfect sense. It just takes some time to find it.
This one put a special kind of torture on the heart, there was a heaviness to it's words that really took a toll on my emotions, but it was totally worth every ounce of pain. You couldn't help but feel for these two and all they had to endure to get to their happily ever after/ Their story had many painful moments, but every now and then there were moments that were lighter and gave hope too. It was such a wonderfully constructed story, a first time read that impressed on all fronts! Highly recommend!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 4, 2023
Hi Carmen,
Here's an intricate story about two young people who lives are more entwined than any of us are aware of from the start. It's a bully romance with many layers, and it turns into an obsessiv.e, possessive romance in a blink of an eye. Aiden a King, and Khalani, a broken soul, find themselves entwined whether they want to be or not. What you want to know is if their journey is worth your time. The answer is yes. While first books set the tone and the world you are about to enter, this story also sets up the other characters and the stories that are about to come our way. Carmen has done this while giving us some very spicy scenes and characters you want to see more. Where I question the writing is in the repetition of things we learn earlier in the story. I can forgive this, because I know that this sets up the world of the Hillside Kings. I do like this story in so many ways, and I hope you readers will give it a shot. Enjoy.
Hi Carmen, I want you to know that I love this story. I'm a Martinez which is why I bought this book. I'm glad I did. Since I love the story, I want to let you know that if you ever need a Beta reader, hit me up. I think you have a gift for storytelling, but what you need is a Beta reader who can catch some of the errors that have slipped through to the final product. I understand that this might be high handed, but I do want your final product to be the best it can be. I hope you take this with the respect I extend myself to you. Never the less, I am now a fan.
Here's an intricate story about two young people who lives are more entwined than any of us are aware of from the start. It's a bully romance with many layers, and it turns into an obsessiv.e, possessive romance in a blink of an eye. Aiden a King, and Khalani, a broken soul, find themselves entwined whether they want to be or not. What you want to know is if their journey is worth your time. The answer is yes. While first books set the tone and the world you are about to enter, this story also sets up the other characters and the stories that are about to come our way. Carmen has done this while giving us some very spicy scenes and characters you want to see more. Where I question the writing is in the repetition of things we learn earlier in the story. I can forgive this, because I know that this sets up the world of the Hillside Kings. I do like this story in so many ways, and I hope you readers will give it a shot. Enjoy.
Hi Carmen, I want you to know that I love this story. I'm a Martinez which is why I bought this book. I'm glad I did. Since I love the story, I want to let you know that if you ever need a Beta reader, hit me up. I think you have a gift for storytelling, but what you need is a Beta reader who can catch some of the errors that have slipped through to the final product. I understand that this might be high handed, but I do want your final product to be the best it can be. I hope you take this with the respect I extend myself to you. Never the less, I am now a fan.
April 4, 2022
I got this advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntary.
I have to say I really enjoyed this dark romance/bully to romance. It wasn’t boring, it had action, gang action, romance, sexy scenes.
Blurb about the book:
Khalani Martinez is dealing with having to say goodbye to her brother Ramos who was the leader of the Hillside kings. He got into gangs to help his mother afford a roof over their heads and food in their stomach. Ramos was like a father figure to her she didn’t have one around. Khalani got threw it by cutting herself and she got herself in trouble at school when she got caught so she was transferred to Hillside Academy on scholarship to hopefully get better and get through high school. Their she gets bullied by the popular rich kids: Aiden, Leo, Colton and the rest of the mean people. Aiden didn’t know what he was doing or who she was until smiley handled the hazing and issues that Khalani was having and Aiden found out who she was and put a stop to it and himself. Read about all the issues Aiden has when he finds out who Khalani is and how that affects him and the hillside kings and his family.
The characters all have good storylines and I can’t wait to read more about Leo, Mason and Colton let them find their somebodies and reading more about these hillside kings.
I have to say I really enjoyed this dark romance/bully to romance. It wasn’t boring, it had action, gang action, romance, sexy scenes.
Blurb about the book:
Khalani Martinez is dealing with having to say goodbye to her brother Ramos who was the leader of the Hillside kings. He got into gangs to help his mother afford a roof over their heads and food in their stomach. Ramos was like a father figure to her she didn’t have one around. Khalani got threw it by cutting herself and she got herself in trouble at school when she got caught so she was transferred to Hillside Academy on scholarship to hopefully get better and get through high school. Their she gets bullied by the popular rich kids: Aiden, Leo, Colton and the rest of the mean people. Aiden didn’t know what he was doing or who she was until smiley handled the hazing and issues that Khalani was having and Aiden found out who she was and put a stop to it and himself. Read about all the issues Aiden has when he finds out who Khalani is and how that affects him and the hillside kings and his family.
The characters all have good storylines and I can’t wait to read more about Leo, Mason and Colton let them find their somebodies and reading more about these hillside kings.
April 22, 2022
Hidden Scars is book one in the Hillside Kings Series. It’s an m/f dark romance.
Wow what an explosive start to a series. Addictive, couldn’t put it down. It’s an absolutely thrilling and unpredictable ride that I just loved.
Khalani & Aiden wow. The pair have immense chemistry but there are so many obstacles in their way.
Things started of so badly for Khalani and my heart broke for her and then when she gets to Hillside Academy things only get worse.
This book is dark, an emotional rollercoaster that will have you wanting to rip your hair out, but oh so worth it. I swear at one point I was full on having heart palpitations! 😂
This has to be one of the best dark romances I’ve read in a while and reminds me exactly why I like reading them.
It’s hot and steamy but there’s also a lot of things that could be triggering for some. Such as gang violence, self harm, bullying etc. please make sure you read the authors warnings. It’s called dark for a reason.
I don’t feel I can really go into the story much. It’s complicated and also better going in blind. The book has so much to give and will wring your emotions dry!
I’m so excited for book two in this series now. We’ve met alot of different characters and I’m hoping most get their own story.
Incredible 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 read. You won’t be disappointed.
Wow what an explosive start to a series. Addictive, couldn’t put it down. It’s an absolutely thrilling and unpredictable ride that I just loved.
Khalani & Aiden wow. The pair have immense chemistry but there are so many obstacles in their way.
Things started of so badly for Khalani and my heart broke for her and then when she gets to Hillside Academy things only get worse.
This book is dark, an emotional rollercoaster that will have you wanting to rip your hair out, but oh so worth it. I swear at one point I was full on having heart palpitations! 😂
This has to be one of the best dark romances I’ve read in a while and reminds me exactly why I like reading them.
It’s hot and steamy but there’s also a lot of things that could be triggering for some. Such as gang violence, self harm, bullying etc. please make sure you read the authors warnings. It’s called dark for a reason.
I don’t feel I can really go into the story much. It’s complicated and also better going in blind. The book has so much to give and will wring your emotions dry!
I’m so excited for book two in this series now. We’ve met alot of different characters and I’m hoping most get their own story.
Incredible 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 read. You won’t be disappointed.
October 15, 2022
Khalani may have grown up on the wrong side of tracks but that didn't stop her from being the top of her classes. Her junnior year she received a scholarship to go to a private elite academy for her senior year. Not bad for a chicana. Tragedy struck. She was so list and broken. She did what she felt she needed to do in order for the pain to disappear.
Aiden is a football star and ruled the academy. Only a select few knew of his secret.
Aiden and the Hillside Kings and the popular kids made Khanani's life a living h€ll. Hate makes you do stupid things, even if those things are wrong. The more Aiden found out about Khalani the more he softened.
"If you look close enough, my girl has many scars, both hidden and visible. I promise I will heal them. They show her struggles, her heartache, her love, mixed with her fears, and I love all of her."
When Aiden's father El Diablo gets involved Aiden can't shake the feeling that there is something he's missing about Khalani. A target is put on Khalani's back once again he turns his back on her.
There is a push pull relationship between them. What will Aiden do for redemption when they both learn that Khalani is not who she seems to be.
A heartbreaking story.
Can't wait for next installment Hidden Lies! Mason and Lucy's story!
Aiden is a football star and ruled the academy. Only a select few knew of his secret.
Aiden and the Hillside Kings and the popular kids made Khanani's life a living h€ll. Hate makes you do stupid things, even if those things are wrong. The more Aiden found out about Khalani the more he softened.
"If you look close enough, my girl has many scars, both hidden and visible. I promise I will heal them. They show her struggles, her heartache, her love, mixed with her fears, and I love all of her."
When Aiden's father El Diablo gets involved Aiden can't shake the feeling that there is something he's missing about Khalani. A target is put on Khalani's back once again he turns his back on her.
There is a push pull relationship between them. What will Aiden do for redemption when they both learn that Khalani is not who she seems to be.
A heartbreaking story.
Can't wait for next installment Hidden Lies! Mason and Lucy's story!
April 15, 2022
i I don’t even think I have the right words to describe how much I absolutely loved every single thing about this fantastic story . Hidden Scars is the first installment in Carmen Rosales ( Hillside King Series ) a series that I can already tell is going to be one of my favorites. This the actually my first time reading this author but I can say with certainty it will not be my last . From the moment I came across the blurb I was just so completely intrigued, in fact I was so excited to have been able to take part in reading and reviewing this arc . Dark High School and Bully romances are two of my all time favorite tropes so I could not wait to dive into Khalani and Aidens Journey . But prepare yourself as it’s not a easy one . It’s dark and emotional, intriguing suspenseful, violent , heartbreaking, steamy , tragic , angst and full of many twists and turns . It’s truly a emotional rollercoaster. I honestly cannot remember the last time I devoured a book this fast . If you are as much of a fan as I am of dark bully romance then you are not going to want to miss this amazing book 📕 ❤️💜🖤
May 25, 2024
Read it in one sitting ! The story is addictive. I discovered this author last week with the Prey Series and I am IN LOVE with her style, I am planning on reading all her books.
This book is a hard pill to swallow if you are not into Bully romances. I love bully romances and I was soooo angry at times that I wanted to stop reading. But I couldn’t because the story is so good.
Be ready for the Kings of Hillside, they are Cartel kings and they are ruthless. Aiden is the top dog between them and he is god awful and really impossible to love all the way to the end. He is THE biggest meanest bully ever and at times I wanted to get inside the book and bitch slap Khalani for being such a DOORMAT! But again I kept it going because the story is amazing and the romance is good and steamy. So I overlooked this…. lol ! I can’t not mention how much I like Alex a.k.a Smiley and Linda. Hope they make appearances in all books and maybe have their own.
I loved Lucy who is Aiden’s twin sister and as much as I HATED the other Kings I actually felt for Leo since he proved to be good and had a heart after all. He end it up being perfect. Will go to the next now since it’s Lucy and Manson story 😍
This book is a hard pill to swallow if you are not into Bully romances. I love bully romances and I was soooo angry at times that I wanted to stop reading. But I couldn’t because the story is so good.
Be ready for the Kings of Hillside, they are Cartel kings and they are ruthless. Aiden is the top dog between them and he is god awful and really impossible to love all the way to the end. He is THE biggest meanest bully ever and at times I wanted to get inside the book and bitch slap Khalani for being such a DOORMAT! But again I kept it going because the story is amazing and the romance is good and steamy. So I overlooked this…. lol ! I can’t not mention how much I like Alex a.k.a Smiley and Linda. Hope they make appearances in all books and maybe have their own.
I loved Lucy who is Aiden’s twin sister and as much as I HATED the other Kings I actually felt for Leo since he proved to be good and had a heart after all. He end it up being perfect. Will go to the next now since it’s Lucy and Manson story 😍
April 14, 2022
This book will bring you all kinds of emotions. You will read some hard topics, but they are covered amazingly. Khalani has suffered a tragic loss and is not dealing very well with it; her emotions are causing some Mental Health issues to come forth and she keeps hiding those from people who care about her. When she gets a scholarship to Hillside Academy, she never thought that things would go the way they did and how awful things could go. Aiden is the King of the school as well as a high in the Cartel. His family is not what they seem. He is not who she though he was either. Khalani is a strong sassy female who stand up for herself as best she can but sometimes, she can't hold her own anymore and emotions run deep. This story is well written, and you feel the emotional roller coaster that these characters are going through. You want to hate Aiden, but you feel for him as well for the most part he still comes off as a jerk a lot. This book was well worth the time to read, fully enjoyed it from start to finish.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
I was given an ARC for my honest review.
April 14, 2022
Layers of Secrets
Khalani Martinez, from the streets to an elite private school, Hillside Academy, after her brother's death, leader of the Hillside Kings Chapter in Arizona.
Aiden Sincere, Hillside Academy's football star sets his eyes on the sassy Khalani. The twist on who he is gets called out early on which surprised me; both on who he is and it wasn't kept secret. I liked the interesting twist it wove into the storyline.
Even with this knowledge... the reason his mind gives him as to why he is a complete jerk? He has a lot of work towards redeeming himself IMO even with the storylines HEA. Creating a hell for Khalani in Hillside along with Leo, Mason, Colton and their "Dream Barbie" mean girls.
Darkly themed high school bully romance, but so much more. Layers of bloody secrets: Cartels, Bratva, Yakuza, Politicians, Conglomerates. The "new to me" author kept me interested and intrigued throughout; couldn't put it down no matter how much I wanted to throttle Aiden.
Completely invested in these characters; bring on Lucy & Mason 🥰
Khalani Martinez, from the streets to an elite private school, Hillside Academy, after her brother's death, leader of the Hillside Kings Chapter in Arizona.
Aiden Sincere, Hillside Academy's football star sets his eyes on the sassy Khalani. The twist on who he is gets called out early on which surprised me; both on who he is and it wasn't kept secret. I liked the interesting twist it wove into the storyline.
Even with this knowledge... the reason his mind gives him as to why he is a complete jerk? He has a lot of work towards redeeming himself IMO even with the storylines HEA. Creating a hell for Khalani in Hillside along with Leo, Mason, Colton and their "Dream Barbie" mean girls.
Darkly themed high school bully romance, but so much more. Layers of bloody secrets: Cartels, Bratva, Yakuza, Politicians, Conglomerates. The "new to me" author kept me interested and intrigued throughout; couldn't put it down no matter how much I wanted to throttle Aiden.
Completely invested in these characters; bring on Lucy & Mason 🥰
April 20, 2022
There is a lot going on with this story: Enemies to lovers, bully, cartel, other woman drama, grief and mental health.
The loss of her brother turns Khalani’s world upside down. He was her world. She sinks into depression and cutting. Her emotions were raw. On top of that she starts a new school full of spoiled rich kids.
The school is ruled by the Kings. The leader, Aiden Sincere, hates her on sight. He along with his crew, torment her daily. The hate is mutual. There is a thin line between hate and love.
Aiden is vicious. He is possessive, jealous, protective and a stone cold killer. His hit and cold treatment of Khalani makes her head spin. It is enough to make it hard to like him. Just when you fall in his side, he messes up.
Khalani is too forgiving of Aiden. However, I did like her. She is sensitive and loyal. She took a lot from Aiden and his friends. She had a mission of going to college and leaving town. She tried to keep her head down and move forward. She could push back when things got too much for her.
A lot if drama and angst, violence and steam
The loss of her brother turns Khalani’s world upside down. He was her world. She sinks into depression and cutting. Her emotions were raw. On top of that she starts a new school full of spoiled rich kids.
The school is ruled by the Kings. The leader, Aiden Sincere, hates her on sight. He along with his crew, torment her daily. The hate is mutual. There is a thin line between hate and love.
Aiden is vicious. He is possessive, jealous, protective and a stone cold killer. His hit and cold treatment of Khalani makes her head spin. It is enough to make it hard to like him. Just when you fall in his side, he messes up.
Khalani is too forgiving of Aiden. However, I did like her. She is sensitive and loyal. She took a lot from Aiden and his friends. She had a mission of going to college and leaving town. She tried to keep her head down and move forward. She could push back when things got too much for her.
A lot if drama and angst, violence and steam
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