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North Woods University #2
The Dare
One night and one decision was all it took for my world to be flipped upside down.
Vance Preston was my best friend. We did everything together, and I swore he hung the moon. One fateful night changed all of that, though. I made a choice and thought I was doing the right thing, but I was wrong.
Even worse? Vance promises to show me just how mistaken I was.
Once my best friend, now my bully–my tormentor–and my new stepbrother.
Stuck in a home with him with no way out, he swears to break me.
Only he doesn’t realize you can’t break something that’s already broken.
This is book 2 in the North Woods University series. This is a dark-new adult romance and contains material that might be triggering to some. This is a complete standalone and contains a happily ever after.
Vance Preston was my best friend. We did everything together, and I swore he hung the moon. One fateful night changed all of that, though. I made a choice and thought I was doing the right thing, but I was wrong.
Even worse? Vance promises to show me just how mistaken I was.
Once my best friend, now my bully–my tormentor–and my new stepbrother.
Stuck in a home with him with no way out, he swears to break me.
Only he doesn’t realize you can’t break something that’s already broken.
This is book 2 in the North Woods University series. This is a dark-new adult romance and contains material that might be triggering to some. This is a complete standalone and contains a happily ever after.
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First published June 24, 2019
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About the author
J.L. Beck
237 books7,156 followersJ.L. Beck is the USA Today Best Selling author of unapologetic romance. She lives in WI with her husband, two kids, and four dogs. She enjoys writing and recently starting a literary agency to help represent authors in the industry.
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
To learn more about her books or interact with her go here: https://linktr.ee/jlbeckbooks
J.L. Beck xoxoxo
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 382 reviews
May 17, 2020
I loved it despite the fact that it contained one of my pet peeves.
I Just can’t get enough of these hate to love stories (or bully romances which are basically hate to love stories set in high school or college). This one was great even though it contained one of my big pet peeves which is when the blurb says, “you can’t break something that’s already broken.” Then the bully goes on to completely break the girl that was supposedly already broken.
I like the few where either the bully realizes how broken she truly is and decides to protect her instead of break her or even better the ones where she has been broken to the point where she has grown a steel backbone and gives as good as she gets and the bully ends up respecting her for that. In this one, though he does break her with his actions it is because he refuses to believe a thing she says. He has trust issues and nothing she says or does changes that.
There is explosive chemistry between Vance and Ava so even though they can’t stand each other, they also can’t stay away from each other. It doesn’t help that their parents just got married and their rooms are across the hall from one another. This book is super steamy and filled with drama as well as some pretty devious pranks. I really enjoyed it.
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I Just can’t get enough of these hate to love stories (or bully romances which are basically hate to love stories set in high school or college). This one was great even though it contained one of my big pet peeves which is when the blurb says, “you can’t break something that’s already broken.” Then the bully goes on to completely break the girl that was supposedly already broken.
I like the few where either the bully realizes how broken she truly is and decides to protect her instead of break her or even better the ones where she has been broken to the point where she has grown a steel backbone and gives as good as she gets and the bully ends up respecting her for that. In this one, though he does break her with his actions it is because he refuses to believe a thing she says. He has trust issues and nothing she says or does changes that.
There is explosive chemistry between Vance and Ava so even though they can’t stand each other, they also can’t stay away from each other. It doesn’t help that their parents just got married and their rooms are across the hall from one another. This book is super steamy and filled with drama as well as some pretty devious pranks. I really enjoyed it.
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July 4, 2019
2.5 stars
The .5 is for the grovelling cuz it was actually pretty good but the H’s actions were unforgivable (calling her a slut, manhandling her, using OW for bj cuz he wants h blah blah blah, you know the usual) and the h was just... ughhh, well, she was a doormat who forgives too easily, cries a lot, gives in too easily cuz duh she’s horny, and doesn’t really fight back and I really hate that. Buuut she was aight at the end, though, can’t really forget how much of a dumbass she was for the first half of the book.
Gotta admit, I'm intrigued with the whole bullying (or hate-to-love, whatever) trope because my favorite part is when the H redeems himself and, well, I guess I have a thing for assholes redeeming themselves because duh Damon Salvatore and Jamie Lannister. In my opinion the H definitely did not redeem himself. It was little too late for that since he started grovelling around 74% ish and the rest of the time, he was just straight up emotionally abusing the h and I ain't down with that.
And the fact that h's mom and H's dad don't even care they're together even though they are step-siblings is just wild as hell. And can we talk about how their parents didn't even get suffer through karma?? I would've given this book higher rating if the parents got what they deserved since they were having an affair in the past and they ended up happy while their significant others either became an addicted to alcohol or became poor?
The .5 is for the grovelling cuz it was actually pretty good but the H’s actions were unforgivable (calling her a slut, manhandling her, using OW for bj cuz he wants h blah blah blah, you know the usual) and the h was just... ughhh, well, she was a doormat who forgives too easily, cries a lot, gives in too easily cuz duh she’s horny, and doesn’t really fight back and I really hate that. Buuut she was aight at the end, though, can’t really forget how much of a dumbass she was for the first half of the book.
Gotta admit, I'm intrigued with the whole bullying (or hate-to-love, whatever) trope because my favorite part is when the H redeems himself and, well, I guess I have a thing for assholes redeeming themselves because duh Damon Salvatore and Jamie Lannister. In my opinion the H definitely did not redeem himself. It was little too late for that since he started grovelling around 74% ish and the rest of the time, he was just straight up emotionally abusing the h and I ain't down with that.
And the fact that h's mom and H's dad don't even care they're together even though they are step-siblings is just wild as hell. And can we talk about how their parents didn't even get suffer through karma?? I would've given this book higher rating if the parents got what they deserved since they were having an affair in the past and they ended up happy while their significant others either became an addicted to alcohol or became poor?
June 29, 2019
5 ❤️💔❤️💔❤️💥🤩💥🤩💥🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟s❣️
It’s one of the rare moments where the second book is even better than the previous one!!!!
Vance carries so much hatred for Ava during the last 5 years. Now that she appears back into his life, Vance will finally get his payback!!
“I’m going to break her, destroy her. I’ll send her back to wherever the fuck she came from crying, and she’ll think twice before crossing paths with me again.” Vance
The storyline was amazing, the writing was superb, fast paced, dual pov and the characters were developed with depth and complexity surrounded by lies, betrayal and angst.
It was a great read!!!
I am so looking forward for Clark’s story in August!!!
It’s one of the rare moments where the second book is even better than the previous one!!!!
Vance carries so much hatred for Ava during the last 5 years. Now that she appears back into his life, Vance will finally get his payback!!
“I’m going to break her, destroy her. I’ll send her back to wherever the fuck she came from crying, and she’ll think twice before crossing paths with me again.” Vance
The storyline was amazing, the writing was superb, fast paced, dual pov and the characters were developed with depth and complexity surrounded by lies, betrayal and angst.
It was a great read!!!
I am so looking forward for Clark’s story in August!!!
Read
November 3, 2020Beta reader
You guys I’m not even playing! If you loved the bet as much as i did and still do then you’ll love the dare! You will freaking ugly cry like i did! I’m still not over this book! It was so damn good!
I seriously had a love/hate relationship with Vance throughout this book which was leaning towards hate for the most part lol
if i could physically go into this book I would! just to freaking throat punch him and crush his nuts!!
My emotions were freaking all over the place with this one! I was up until 4 am ugly crying because once i started it I literally did not want to put it down!
That was literally nothing like I expected it was wayyy freaking more! Omg i loved the dare so much! Had tons of love/hate/ i wana punch you moments with Vance lol... i was hyperventilating half the time wondering what the hell happens next! That was beautifully written and held so much emotions I freaking ugly cried alotttt!!! Also what the hell is up with that ending? *when you guys read it you’ll know*
#unputdownable
This was everything and more!
So my actual thoughts on this is that i fucking loved it!!!!!!
I’d say 10 ⭐️ because it was that good! Definitely add it to you tbr’s guys!
You guys I’m not even playing! If you loved the bet as much as i did and still do then you’ll love the dare! You will freaking ugly cry like i did! I’m still not over this book! It was so damn good!
I seriously had a love/hate relationship with Vance throughout this book which was leaning towards hate for the most part lol
if i could physically go into this book I would! just to freaking throat punch him and crush his nuts!!
My emotions were freaking all over the place with this one! I was up until 4 am ugly crying because once i started it I literally did not want to put it down!
That was literally nothing like I expected it was wayyy freaking more! Omg i loved the dare so much! Had tons of love/hate/ i wana punch you moments with Vance lol... i was hyperventilating half the time wondering what the hell happens next! That was beautifully written and held so much emotions I freaking ugly cried alotttt!!! Also what the hell is up with that ending? *when you guys read it you’ll know*
#unputdownable
This was everything and more!
So my actual thoughts on this is that i fucking loved it!!!!!!
I’d say 10 ⭐️ because it was that good! Definitely add it to you tbr’s guys!
November 18, 2019
Vance is even more stupid than Remmy.
Why these boys hold gruges from their childhood ? The fuck is wrong with them ?
Don't get me started on the parents who are sociopaths. Parents are bad > boys become bully and manwhores / girls are weak, shy as mouses and have daddy issues. What a clever plot TO WRITE IN TWO BOOKS.
The heroine is pathetic and the authors are playing a dangerous and irresponsible game: writing that the girls from this series find pleasure when the boys forced themselves on them is so fucking vile. Yes you can still be a victim of sexual abuse even if your body seems to find pleasure. You don't always control your body. But that doesn't mean it's ok to sexually assault people. Jesus.
Why these boys hold gruges from their childhood ? The fuck is wrong with them ?
Don't get me started on the parents who are sociopaths. Parents are bad > boys become bully and manwhores / girls are weak, shy as mouses and have daddy issues. What a clever plot TO WRITE IN TWO BOOKS.
The heroine is pathetic and the authors are playing a dangerous and irresponsible game: writing that the girls from this series find pleasure when the boys forced themselves on them is so fucking vile. Yes you can still be a victim of sexual abuse even if your body seems to find pleasure. You don't always control your body. But that doesn't mean it's ok to sexually assault people. Jesus.
July 3, 2019
This was a 4.5 stars for me !! Definitely it was better than the first book!!! Vance was so cruel and Ava so sweet! Overall I really liked it ..Can't wait for next one ..Clarks story !!
November 18, 2022
1.5 stars
The 0.5 star is because I actually finished.
And the hero did some grovelling.
But it was bad, guys.
So freaking bad...
I can't say that I am surprised but after book 1 The Bet I thought that maybe, just maybe I finally found a series from this duo that I wouldn't hate.
But here we are, yet again, at the same starting point, with me rolling my eyes with so much incredulity and frustration, I honestly have no words.
Just no fucking words.
Because why is it that they always create the same characters?
Why is it that their heroines are always so blatantly dumb and absurd you want to holler?
Why is it that their heros are always the same kind of assholes with very few to none redeeming qualities?
Why is it that their books never hold any depth and these two glorify everything that is bad and rotten in this world?
Just why?
I don't really understand why anyone would like it.
I know it's a bullying romance and I always expect a high level of dysfunctional behaviours, toxicity and, well, some sort of darkness.
I'm all for it.
But I also need layers within my characters, I want maturity, that certain level of complexity of their characters that would somehow make me understand their actions and root for both of them.
I want to see how the antihero redeems himself, how he grows into a man with values.
I want to see a heroine who doesn't think with her vagina and knows how to spell "self-respect".
The heroine who isn't afraid to fight for herself and is actually able to distinguish right from wrong.
I want characters who are not dumb caricatures, characters who offer me something more than just hot fucking or immature arguing or crying every other page.
This duo apparently doesn't know how to do any of that.
I could go on and tell you what a disappointing mess the idiotic heroine was but I guess you got the picture already.
I could also add that the hero is a mean asshole who only thinks with his dick but I'm guessing you already know that, too.
There is the moment when he gets his head out of his ass and finally sees his father for who he really is, a manipulative, lying sociopath and he starts grovelling.
And that was pretty decent, true, but short lasting.
Because the dumber than dumb heroine forgave him after about a day or two.
So, yeah, like I said. This book is a dumb mess with a very toxic message.
I hated the heroine, I disliked the hero.
I couldn't stand the sociopathic "parents" and, for the life of me, I couldn't figure out what was the reason why the authors decided it would be a good idea for the evil 'parents' to win and have their hea and the poor guy (the heroine's father whose wife cheated) who already suffered enough because of those two (she left him for the hero's father and he turned to drinking) was somehow turned into the bad guy?
Really?
That was the best they could come up with?
So, summing up this verbal diarrhea, I'd say no, I didn't like it.
It did have potential to be a great book if the characters weren't so flat, dumb and annoying.
Or if the book held some sort of depth.
But it didn't.
And it had nothing to offer.
Not for me.
So I am not recommending this to anyone.
And if you decide to read it anyway, don't say I didn't warn you, y'all.
Maybe I will try another book from the series.
Maybe.
After I recover from this one.
But not now.
Now I'm out!
The 0.5 star is because I actually finished.
And the hero did some grovelling.
But it was bad, guys.
So freaking bad...
I can't say that I am surprised but after book 1 The Bet I thought that maybe, just maybe I finally found a series from this duo that I wouldn't hate.
But here we are, yet again, at the same starting point, with me rolling my eyes with so much incredulity and frustration, I honestly have no words.
Just no fucking words.
Because why is it that they always create the same characters?
Why is it that their heroines are always so blatantly dumb and absurd you want to holler?
Why is it that their heros are always the same kind of assholes with very few to none redeeming qualities?
Why is it that their books never hold any depth and these two glorify everything that is bad and rotten in this world?
Just why?
I don't really understand why anyone would like it.
I know it's a bullying romance and I always expect a high level of dysfunctional behaviours, toxicity and, well, some sort of darkness.
I'm all for it.
But I also need layers within my characters, I want maturity, that certain level of complexity of their characters that would somehow make me understand their actions and root for both of them.
I want to see how the antihero redeems himself, how he grows into a man with values.
I want to see a heroine who doesn't think with her vagina and knows how to spell "self-respect".
The heroine who isn't afraid to fight for herself and is actually able to distinguish right from wrong.
I want characters who are not dumb caricatures, characters who offer me something more than just hot fucking or immature arguing or crying every other page.
This duo apparently doesn't know how to do any of that.
I could go on and tell you what a disappointing mess the idiotic heroine was but I guess you got the picture already.
I could also add that the hero is a mean asshole who only thinks with his dick but I'm guessing you already know that, too.
There is the moment when he gets his head out of his ass and finally sees his father for who he really is, a manipulative, lying sociopath and he starts grovelling.
And that was pretty decent, true, but short lasting.
Because the dumber than dumb heroine forgave him after about a day or two.
So, yeah, like I said. This book is a dumb mess with a very toxic message.
I hated the heroine, I disliked the hero.
I couldn't stand the sociopathic "parents" and, for the life of me, I couldn't figure out what was the reason why the authors decided it would be a good idea for the evil 'parents' to win and have their hea and the poor guy (the heroine's father whose wife cheated) who already suffered enough because of those two (she left him for the hero's father and he turned to drinking) was somehow turned into the bad guy?
Really?
That was the best they could come up with?
So, summing up this verbal diarrhea, I'd say no, I didn't like it.
It did have potential to be a great book if the characters weren't so flat, dumb and annoying.
Or if the book held some sort of depth.
But it didn't.
And it had nothing to offer.
Not for me.
So I am not recommending this to anyone.
And if you decide to read it anyway, don't say I didn't warn you, y'all.
Maybe I will try another book from the series.
Maybe.
After I recover from this one.
But not now.
Now I'm out!
April 15, 2020
Wayyyyy better than the first one. I'm taking a star off cause he used her sexually to get back at her which is ugh and it was cheesy a lot of the parts.
November 30, 2019
1-WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH Y'ALL?-STAR!
OH MY GOD. DNF @ 50....oh i can't fucking ...i just can't.
SHE SUFFERS, HE SUFFERS..BLAMES HER, SHE IS SUCH A FUCKING DOORMAT...AND OH ..WHA THE HELL ....EVEN AT 50% SHE SAYS, DO YOUR WORST??? IN A LOVEY DOVEY VOICE...I HATE EVERYONE WHO URNS THIS INTO ROMANCE...
OH MY GOD. DNF @ 50....oh i can't fucking ...i just can't.
SHE SUFFERS, HE SUFFERS..BLAMES HER, SHE IS SUCH A FUCKING DOORMAT...AND OH ..WHA THE HELL ....EVEN AT 50% SHE SAYS, DO YOUR WORST??? IN A LOVEY DOVEY VOICE...I HATE EVERYONE WHO URNS THIS INTO ROMANCE...
October 11, 2021
WHAT THE HELL IS UP WITH AUTHORS HATING ON EVERY FEMALE WHO ISN'T THE MAIN CHARACTER??
Ex:
"I’m used to women who wear overpowering perfume and cake their faces with makeup. Of course Ava doesn't do either of those things, making her ten times more appealing to everyone with a dick and eyes."
Go fuck yourself Vance.
Ex:
"I’m used to women who wear overpowering perfume and cake their faces with makeup. Of course Ava doesn't do either of those things, making her ten times more appealing to everyone with a dick and eyes."
Go fuck yourself Vance.
August 20, 2019
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
R T C
R T C
November 4, 2024
Lies, lies, and more lies.
This was an intense, drama-filled story packed with secrets, betrayal, and undeniable chemistry.
It was an enjoyable read, full of tension and emotional pull.
Somewhere around 4.5-4.75 ⭐️’s
This was an intense, drama-filled story packed with secrets, betrayal, and undeniable chemistry.
It was an enjoyable read, full of tension and emotional pull.
Somewhere around 4.5-4.75 ⭐️’s
July 21, 2020
I really hated this book. I can't believe this is the third one star book in a row for the reading rush 2020. Anyways, I think the problem I had with this book was Vance. Vance's bullying, actually it was really abuse, went for way too long and for such a stupid reason. When they were younger, Vance and Ava used to play truth or dare. Vance dared Ava to sneak into her parents room. Later, Vance's family gets kicked out of Ava's house and his parents split up. He was lied to and didn't believe Ava when she finally straightened it out for him. He thought that Ava lied and said that she was threatened by him to take jewelry. However, the truth was that Ava saw her mother and Vance's father having an affair. What was so frustrating was the verbal abuse and the later sexual assault. I would consider it sexual assault because she told him no and showed that she didn't want to participate in sexual intercourse but Vance ignored her. In the book, Vance literally said, "Men don't take women who don't want it" This is such a contradiction to what he did. There were multiple times where he barges into her room without asking. He scares her and does absolutely awful things to her. Like he deleted her homework for three weeks. I would have been furious. Then, he finally believes Ava because he hears his father talk about it, after his father lies to him again and he sexually assaults Ava. He is so gullible. He already lost her forgiveness and trust. Then, after Ava's father tries to kill Vance's father, they fall in love with each other. I just can't get over how shitty he was to her. The "groveling" was horrible. When he said, "I fucking failed her" I was like yeah he did. How could this be an HEA? And he had the AUDACITY to say, "I love you." after all the shit he put her through. I do like hate to love and bully romances but this just went too far. This was very unpleasant to read. Also, I guess I was reading about blocks of wood. All the characters were boring and had absolutely no personality. Vance has anger issues and has sex. Ava fakes being brave. Also, I normally like friends to enemies to lovers but this didn't work out. Also, when I read the synopsis, I thought it was going to be about an ongoing game of truth or dare. Like they played truth or dare but then realized that they like each other. This wasn't it and I'm disappointed because of that as well as the content in the book. Furthermore, this is my second book by this author and I've given both of them one stars so... J.L. Beck is not my kind of author. #sorrynotsorry
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2019
-Jenna, 4 stars
Another terrific story to follow up from the first one. This follows the intriguing story of Vance and newcomer Ava. Vance is another hurt male who you will probably hate through most of the story. But his broken heart and emotions will win you over. Ava was definitely loveable and actually quite a strong heroine in my eyes. The story was emotional, angsty but also steamy and flowed really nicely. The end leaves you wanting the next as well.
Another terrific story to follow up from the first one. This follows the intriguing story of Vance and newcomer Ava. Vance is another hurt male who you will probably hate through most of the story. But his broken heart and emotions will win you over. Ava was definitely loveable and actually quite a strong heroine in my eyes. The story was emotional, angsty but also steamy and flowed really nicely. The end leaves you wanting the next as well.
June 27, 2019
“I want to own her fear, her hate, her anger.”
Wow. Another great bully, enemies to lovers read by these authors.
You will feel the pain and anger. Many Secrets and lies.
Can they find forgiveness and love after all the hurt?
Let’s chat books.
https://www.instagram.com/bluvsbooks/
Wow. Another great bully, enemies to lovers read by these authors.
You will feel the pain and anger. Many Secrets and lies.
Can they find forgiveness and love after all the hurt?
Let’s chat books.
https://www.instagram.com/bluvsbooks/
June 8, 2020
2.5 stars.
Vance has been a total asshole throughout the book. I just don't have the patience for that. The only good thing for me was Ava's personality. She was strong when she put limits on Vance.
But I expect great things from Clark, I hope I'm not wrong.
Vance has been a total asshole throughout the book. I just don't have the patience for that. The only good thing for me was Ava's personality. She was strong when she put limits on Vance.
But I expect great things from Clark, I hope I'm not wrong.
September 24, 2022
This is embarrazzing af, just take writing classes the both of you!!
November 21, 2019
5 Insane-Stars! ★★★★★
Refreshing, bitter-sweet and oh-so good. From the first paragraph I was hooked! And it kept getting better and better. Vance and Ava’s relation is rollercoaster ride on crack! The ups and downs kept me glued to the pages.
Vance was a grade-A dick but some how I still ended up rooting for them to end up together. The writing was superb! I am a fan of J.L. Beck after this book. I am reading all the books by this author because this was not just a book. This was Art!
I read this book out of sequence but it didn’t matter. It worked great as a stand alone. Highly recommended for everybody who love those twisted romances that tug at your heart strings.
Refreshing, bitter-sweet and oh-so good. From the first paragraph I was hooked! And it kept getting better and better. Vance and Ava’s relation is rollercoaster ride on crack! The ups and downs kept me glued to the pages.
Vance was a grade-A dick but some how I still ended up rooting for them to end up together. The writing was superb! I am a fan of J.L. Beck after this book. I am reading all the books by this author because this was not just a book. This was Art!
I read this book out of sequence but it didn’t matter. It worked great as a stand alone. Highly recommended for everybody who love those twisted romances that tug at your heart strings.
March 2, 2020
3.5 כוכבים.
חביב מאד.
אי אפשר לומר שיש כאן איזה איכות כתיבה מדהימה. אבל הספר כיפי וקולח בדיוק כמו קודמו אז אני מרוצה.
חביב מאד.
אי אפשר לומר שיש כאן איזה איכות כתיבה מדהימה. אבל הספר כיפי וקולח בדיוק כמו קודמו אז אני מרוצה.
July 5, 2019
4.5/5 Stars
Disclaimer: This review MAY contain spoilers. I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and/or author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This duo of authors has such a knack for creating stories that capture your attention straight from the beginning. This is the second book that I have read from these co-authors and I am liking the current trend.
What this book boasts, as did the first book in this series, is characters that imprint on you immediately. These characters are so realistic and flawed that you can't help but feel a special connection with them throughout the entire book. I love how the remnants of their lives after childhood misfortune dictate their actions and feelings as the story progresses. These actions and feelings create such tension and they really drive the plot. I loved Ava from the very beginning and I really sympathized with her. She was strong despite going through such harsh realities as a teenager and then having no one in her corner. I also sympathized with Vance. I could really understand his motivations and feelings. He went through as much heartache as Ava because of what happened in their childhood and because of lies that surface about what happened. I liked that Vance was human and made mistakes because of his emotions and also that he tried to make up for his mistakes once things become clear to him.
I liked getting a small glimpse of Jules, Remington, and Sebastian. I would have liked to see more of them though. They are in a few scenes, which I enjoyed. I would honestly *love* for Sebastian to get his own book in the North Woods University world.
The plot of this book was one that kept me reading. I wanted to know what had happened in Ava and Vance's past, the thing that is the root of all the happenings in the story, from the first chapter. I liked how the authors were able to add suspense into the writing to really make the reader latch on and want to know all the details. As far as the plot goes, it isn't one that is highly inventive, but it was definitely written well. The characters had a lot to do with the addictiveness of the plot. Family drama is always good for catapulting plots, in my opinion. Everyone always wants to know the dirty gossip and it plays out well in this story.
Overall, this is another slam-dunk read by this co-authoring duo. I am absolutely invested in their books now. I am eager for the next book in this series and I will definitely be trying more of their backlist titles. If you are a fan of bully romances then you shouldn't hesitate to read this one. It has strong characters, a plot that drives the story, and a romance that you can't help but root for.
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
Disclaimer: This review MAY contain spoilers. I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and/or author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This duo of authors has such a knack for creating stories that capture your attention straight from the beginning. This is the second book that I have read from these co-authors and I am liking the current trend.
What this book boasts, as did the first book in this series, is characters that imprint on you immediately. These characters are so realistic and flawed that you can't help but feel a special connection with them throughout the entire book. I love how the remnants of their lives after childhood misfortune dictate their actions and feelings as the story progresses. These actions and feelings create such tension and they really drive the plot. I loved Ava from the very beginning and I really sympathized with her. She was strong despite going through such harsh realities as a teenager and then having no one in her corner. I also sympathized with Vance. I could really understand his motivations and feelings. He went through as much heartache as Ava because of what happened in their childhood and because of lies that surface about what happened. I liked that Vance was human and made mistakes because of his emotions and also that he tried to make up for his mistakes once things become clear to him.
I liked getting a small glimpse of Jules, Remington, and Sebastian. I would have liked to see more of them though. They are in a few scenes, which I enjoyed. I would honestly *love* for Sebastian to get his own book in the North Woods University world.
The plot of this book was one that kept me reading. I wanted to know what had happened in Ava and Vance's past, the thing that is the root of all the happenings in the story, from the first chapter. I liked how the authors were able to add suspense into the writing to really make the reader latch on and want to know all the details. As far as the plot goes, it isn't one that is highly inventive, but it was definitely written well. The characters had a lot to do with the addictiveness of the plot. Family drama is always good for catapulting plots, in my opinion. Everyone always wants to know the dirty gossip and it plays out well in this story.
Overall, this is another slam-dunk read by this co-authoring duo. I am absolutely invested in their books now. I am eager for the next book in this series and I will definitely be trying more of their backlist titles. If you are a fan of bully romances then you shouldn't hesitate to read this one. It has strong characters, a plot that drives the story, and a romance that you can't help but root for.
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
May 10, 2021
Meine Meinung
In „Die Lüge: Mein Stiefbruder, Mein Tyrann“ geht es um die Geschichte von Vance und Ava. Er ist ihr schlimmster Alptraum + Tyrann geworden und das allerschlimmste ihr neuer Stiefbruder. Sie ahnt nicht was das Schicksal bereit hält und als sie auf einmal in einem Haus mit diesem Mann ist. Vance möchte sie brechen, doch was ist wenn sie es schon längst ist ....
Vance ist ein junger Mann der wie Ava vieles durchmachen musste und die Freundschaft zu ihr ihm damals alles bedeutet hat. Er glaubt das Ava, die Ehe seiner Eltern zerstört hat und will sie brechen. Steckt hinter diesem
Mann noch der Junge von damals ?
Ava hatte eine Kindheit in der Geld nie ein Problem war und so lernte sie durch ihre Familie Vance kennen, der zu ihrem besten Freund wurde. Doch nun scheinen die Seiten verdreht und Vance Vater ist reich. Sie trägt ein schlimmes Geheimnis in sich das alles änderte.
Der Schreibstil ist angenehm flüssig und wird im Wechsel aus der Perspektive von Ava und Vance erzählt. Der Leser kann sie so beide näher kennenlernen und ihre Gedanken und Gefühle erfahren während der Handlung. Die Nebenfiguren sind ebenso authentisch und gestalten die Geschichte mit. Die Kulisse ist ähnlich wie die aus dem anderen Buch und man trifft auf Charaktere wieder.
Die Spannung hat mich mit jeder neuen Seite mehr in die Geschichte von Vance und Ava gezogen. Beide haben sich durch ihre Familien kennengelernt und wurden Freude. Doch dann brachen ihre Familien auseinander und durch eine Lüge hat Vance 5 Jahre lang Hassgefühle entwickelt für Ava. Nun sind beide Stiefgeschwister, weil ihre Mutter und sein Vater geheiratet haben. Ava ahnt nicht wie sehr Vance sie hasst, weil er glaubt das sie an allem Schuld ist. Je tiefer ich in die Handlung eingetaucht bin, konnte ich es kaum glauben wie sehr mich die Autorin mitgerissen hat. Schon der erste Band indem es um Remington ging war einfach Mega und dieser hier hat ebenfalls ein fesselndes Leseerlebnis. Wird es Ava gelingen Vance die Wahrheit zu erzählen und wie wird ihre Zukunft aussehen
Das Cover sieht einfach toll aus und der Mann passt perfekt zum Buch.
Fazit
Ein fesselnder Roman der süchtig nach mehr macht.
September 4, 2019
Some years ago, Vance and Ava were friends. But one night playing truth or dare changes everything. Because his dad and her mom were having an affair. And even though Ava and her parents moved to another place, they ended up getting a divorce.
Now, five years later Ava's mom is married to Vance's dad. And she is moving to live with them. But, Vance hates her now. And Ava doesn't understand why.
Two versions of the same story...
This second book is better than the first one. It's full of love, hate, revenge and lies.
And the final chapters are really good!
Now, five years later Ava's mom is married to Vance's dad. And she is moving to live with them. But, Vance hates her now. And Ava doesn't understand why.
Two versions of the same story...
This second book is better than the first one. It's full of love, hate, revenge and lies.
And the final chapters are really good!
July 10, 2020
Really loved this book
July 7, 2019
“Stepsister or not, she’s dead to me.
She was dead to me the night she lied about me to her father.”
Truth or dare? A regular and innocent game between two friends, Ava and Vance, has unimaginable consequences when Ava decides to choose dare for the first time. In pursuit of her mission, she ends up seeing a scene that will destroy her family as well as her friend's family. And especially the friendship between them. Ava will not see him again. Vance will hate her.
A few years later, their lives changed drastically. The rich, happy and innocent girl gave way to a struggling person, with a drunken father and a selfish mother who does not care about her daughter. Vance, on the other hand, goes from poor boy to a playboy wrapped in luxury, parties and popularity, all based on the money of his now successful father, but with whom he lives a conflicted relationship.
But after so many years without seeing each other, the two will be forced to face each other. After all, their parents are getting married. And with this new "family dynamics," Ava, with no other choice, accepts her mother's help to pay for college expenses, which means living in the same house as Vance. But if she thought her friend from the past would be happy to see her, Vance's hatred would be a shock to her. And without choice, she ends up entering a new game of truth or dare without knowing the rules, and whose goal is to destroy her.
A lie in the past has destroyed Vance's life. And that's why he blames Ava. Making her pay has become his goal for all these years. And now with the possibility of destroying the woman he hates, he will be cruel, evil and intimidating. His psychological games and his focus on shaking her security will bring results. But Ava will not be an easy opponent. She will be strong, intelligent, and equally skilled. And with that, the war between them will be declared. Who will be the winner?
But is Ava truly guilty? Or is it all a big mistake? Lying is the main thread of the story. But who's lying? And for what reason? What if the person you've been hating for years was as much a victim as you?
The book has intrigues, secrets, twists, revenge, villains that will arouse the reader's anger, serious family problems, and a couple of young people who try to deal with everything that life has put in their ways in the best way they can. Vance's attitudes while reprehensible are amenable to understanding, even if forgiving is difficult and even impossible. Ava suffered too much because of the selfishness of two adults unable to think of others beyond themselves.
The Dare is a good book, I liked the story a lot, it was well written, interesting and it captured attention. Clark, Vance's best friend ends the plot with a huge cliffhanger, presenting a hook for his book. Recommended.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest Review *
https://avidezliteraria.wordpress.com/
June 28, 2019
Sort of like watching a car crash, it’s impossible to tear your eyes away from this book once you get into it - no matter how much you may want to. I still can’t decide if I loved or hated this book; it straddled the line between the two too many times to count. And that’s a good description of the romance in this book as a whole - there is a fine line between love and hate, which Vance and Ava know all too well. The story follows childhood friends who are separated after a mysterious event that is revealed later on in the book. These two teenagers who were once friends are now enemies (or at least Vance sees it that way). To Vance, Ava ruined his parents’ marriage and put a dark cloud over the last 5 years of his life, so when she returns to town he makes it his mission to cause her as much pain as possible (emotionally). He’s gone from a sweet boy with a smile to a total jerk who uses women, and Ava gets whiplash trying to figure out what happened to change him so drastically.
The writing style sucks you in, and it’s easy to get caught up in the story while overlooking things that would be totally unacceptable in real life. I get that this is a bully romance, but Vance definitely pushed the limits sometimes, and though he claims he would never physically harm Ava, some of the things he did could have gotten him arrested in the real world. For that reason, I can’t say that this is a fantastic romance (though the writing is pretty great throughout). In my opinion, no “romance” should start out with assault, and that’s really what happened here. Vance may have won Ava over to his side eventually, but it was only by breaking her down before building her back up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The writing style sucks you in, and it’s easy to get caught up in the story while overlooking things that would be totally unacceptable in real life. I get that this is a bully romance, but Vance definitely pushed the limits sometimes, and though he claims he would never physically harm Ava, some of the things he did could have gotten him arrested in the real world. For that reason, I can’t say that this is a fantastic romance (though the writing is pretty great throughout). In my opinion, no “romance” should start out with assault, and that’s really what happened here. Vance may have won Ava over to his side eventually, but it was only by breaking her down before building her back up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2021
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Bully Romance (College)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Dark Level: 1/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes (Mild)
Male: Jerk
Series: Book 2
Pages: 258
Audio: GuyV:GOOD and GirlV:GOOD
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I have not been reading this series in order. So far, this one was not bad and more likable. It follows the blueprint of a bully romance and I can say, Vance was an a**hole. His treatment of Ava will not be to everyone’s liking. Watching this story unfold was so frustrating because it would have been so simple to resolve the issue, but what would be the fun in that. The climax of this story when Vance realizes he loves Ava was a little too quick, because less than 24, no 10 hours he was still full of hate. That was the only part that got an **eye roll** moment. I felt it wasn’t enough time for what happen to sink in for that reaction.
CHEMISTRY:
Physically, I thought their chemistry was good. It wasn’t steaming hot but good.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Clark- loved Clark and look forward to his book as the epilogue had an interesting ending.
Rem and Jules - didn’t care for their story, but always glad to see them throughout the series.
Parents - Vance’s and Ava’s parents, with parents like those who need enemies. I don’t feel like they got what they deserved.
Overall, likable read and look forward to Clark’s story.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
Style: Bully Romance (College)
Story: 3/5
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Dark Level: 1/5
Sexual Level: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Violence: Yes (Mild)
Male: Jerk
Series: Book 2
Pages: 258
Audio: GuyV:GOOD and GirlV:GOOD
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
I have not been reading this series in order. So far, this one was not bad and more likable. It follows the blueprint of a bully romance and I can say, Vance was an a**hole. His treatment of Ava will not be to everyone’s liking. Watching this story unfold was so frustrating because it would have been so simple to resolve the issue, but what would be the fun in that. The climax of this story when Vance realizes he loves Ava was a little too quick, because less than 24, no 10 hours he was still full of hate. That was the only part that got an **eye roll** moment. I felt it wasn’t enough time for what happen to sink in for that reaction.
CHEMISTRY:
Physically, I thought their chemistry was good. It wasn’t steaming hot but good.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS
Clark- loved Clark and look forward to his book as the epilogue had an interesting ending.
Rem and Jules - didn’t care for their story, but always glad to see them throughout the series.
Parents - Vance’s and Ava’s parents, with parents like those who need enemies. I don’t feel like they got what they deserved.
Overall, likable read and look forward to Clark’s story.
****I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read. I based my book reviews on my preferences and what I like, and while these preferences may not be the same for others, I hope this review was still helpful.
August 14, 2020
Disgusted
If assault, rape and emotional abuse is your thing, than this book is for you.
I DNF at 68% because I was truly disgusted by Vance (lead character).
I read The Secret first and loved it! I was so excited to read another book in the series. Im genuinely disappointed and skeeved out. I'm going to take a break from the series and may try again with a different book.
If assault, rape and emotional abuse is your thing, than this book is for you.
I DNF at 68% because I was truly disgusted by Vance (lead character).
I read The Secret first and loved it! I was so excited to read another book in the series. Im genuinely disappointed and skeeved out. I'm going to take a break from the series and may try again with a different book.
July 8, 2024
2 ⭐️ / 🎧.
Was it good? NO.
Was it bad? YES.
Did I listen to the entire thing cause Teddy was the MMC narrator. YES.
Was it good? NO.
Was it bad? YES.
Did I listen to the entire thing cause Teddy was the MMC narrator. YES.
March 19, 2025
I wasn’t crazy about book 1, The Bet. It was alright and I liked it, but I wasn’t sure if I’d continue with book 2- The Dare. But holy shit am I glad I did. I ended up really enjoying it. I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough. Vance and Ava had so much history, history that ended a friendship badly. Now years later their parents are married, he angry and wants to make her pay for the lies of the past, and she’s hurting and has no idea why he hates her.
This book was so good. The tension between them was on fire. I loved the drama and angst between them and I liked when the truth was finally revealed and it left Vance feeling like a complete ass. I personally think Ava needed to make Vance and Clark earn her forgiveness more than she did. Especially Clark, she forgave his words too easily. But all in all this was a great read and I can’t wait to dive into Clark’s book next!
This book was so good. The tension between them was on fire. I loved the drama and angst between them and I liked when the truth was finally revealed and it left Vance feeling like a complete ass. I personally think Ava needed to make Vance and Clark earn her forgiveness more than she did. Especially Clark, she forgave his words too easily. But all in all this was a great read and I can’t wait to dive into Clark’s book next!
September 9, 2022
2.5 stars? This is my second book from this author duo, and I think their writing just isn’t for me. I’ve read a number of books with a similar set-up and this one is among the worst I’ve read.
(I listened to the audiobook and the narrators are fantastic, but I generally rate on the story, writing, etc. For folks who like the authors, I def recommend the audiobook.)
(I listened to the audiobook and the narrators are fantastic, but I generally rate on the story, writing, etc. For folks who like the authors, I def recommend the audiobook.)
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