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Blisshaven Academy #1
Caged In Flames: Blisshaven Academy Book One
Two years ago, I learned that a prestigious academy isn’t all it's cracked up to be. Especially when three boys are determined to ruin you. I was there to pursue music. They were there to destroy me. The sad thing is, they almost succeeded. Their spite went too far and I was the one who almost paid the ultimate price. Now I’m back. They were supposed to be gone. This year was supposed to be different. And when I come face to face with my tormentors, it’s clear that things are. They aren’t the same boys I thought I knew. This time around, I won’t be the same naive girl they once took advantage of. I’m no longer alone. I’m no longer silly little Diana. I’m Phoenix Carter and I won’t be caged by anyone. Not even myself. **Caged In Flames will have themes of bullying, mental illness, and mentions of suicide and self harm. The foreward includes a full list of warnings regarding situations that some may find triggering. This is why choose romance, therefore the FMC will have more than one love interest throughout the series, but will not be forced to choose if she doesn’t want to by the end of her story.**
256 pages, Paperback
Published November 18, 2022
164 people are currently reading
815 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
August 10, 2021
WOW! There are no other words, just Wow! I started this book thinking I’d read a few chapters and then fall asleep. It’s almost 6 am and I just finished it in one go! This is not your usual high school bully romance.
Phoenix, starts as a broken girl, who looked for relief from the darkness. She was broken by three boys and the rest of her high school. The story of how doesn’t come out right away, just hints of the past here and there.
Gunner is a sweet, compassionate, man who loves and sees Nix’s inner strength. He messed up so bad at the end, he’s going to need to do some serious groveling!
Charlie, Jade, and Sawyer, three men who betrayed Nix when she was at her most vulnerable. They have grown and changed a lot since sophomore year, but there is still a lot of more to make up for. Sawyer and Gunner should have been more honest in the beginning and they wouldn’t have betrayed Nix for a second time.
Then there’s Jane, the best friend anyone could ask for. She’s a rock, and so funny. Heed the trigger warnings about mental illness, things get heavy from the very beginning. I can’t wait to see how book 2 goes.
Phoenix, starts as a broken girl, who looked for relief from the darkness. She was broken by three boys and the rest of her high school. The story of how doesn’t come out right away, just hints of the past here and there.
Gunner is a sweet, compassionate, man who loves and sees Nix’s inner strength. He messed up so bad at the end, he’s going to need to do some serious groveling!
Charlie, Jade, and Sawyer, three men who betrayed Nix when she was at her most vulnerable. They have grown and changed a lot since sophomore year, but there is still a lot of more to make up for. Sawyer and Gunner should have been more honest in the beginning and they wouldn’t have betrayed Nix for a second time.
Then there’s Jane, the best friend anyone could ask for. She’s a rock, and so funny. Heed the trigger warnings about mental illness, things get heavy from the very beginning. I can’t wait to see how book 2 goes.
May 11, 2022
I have many mixed feelings about this book. The actions of the male characters are not reasonable and I cannot understand why the female character tolerates theses guys.
February 4, 2023
Check the trigger warnings.
First of all.. a sophomore in high school paying for prostitute? A 16 year old boy??? Really? REALLY?? 🙄🤦♀️
The guys were sent to “reform schools” to learn their lessons. Please. Jude was home schooled. Sawyer was sent over seas.. they didn’t learn their lessons they just bid their time. Sawyer even said he didn’t really regret most of what he did….
I skimmed through most of book 2. Some commenters said she “put the guys through the ringer and made them grovel”……But she really didn’t. Petty immature pranks like her flirting with other guys or giving out the boys information for spammers. All stupid compared to the horror they put her through. She had moments when she stood tall, brave, and drew the line in the sand reminding them of her pain but she would instantly be back to giggling and flirting. She always went back to them. I understand that her character was supposed to be gentle and forgiving but I really am so disappointed in how quickly she forgave them all.
In book two sawyer was already back in her life and he hadn’t even apologized. And let’s be real he is absolutely so fucking annoying. He isn’t funny or witty. All he does is make stupid sex jokes and do kinky things to her. He’s has no depth and no real layers. He is such a lame character.
I liked her pain and trauma. I liked seeing her work through her manic episodes. You can feel her pain. Because it’s real. There is so much strength in being broken. Absolutely there is strength in forgiveness but…. I suppose, I wanted her to hardened. Suspicious and distant. Where the author wanted her soft and forgiving.
First of all.. a sophomore in high school paying for prostitute? A 16 year old boy??? Really? REALLY?? 🙄🤦♀️
The guys were sent to “reform schools” to learn their lessons. Please. Jude was home schooled. Sawyer was sent over seas.. they didn’t learn their lessons they just bid their time. Sawyer even said he didn’t really regret most of what he did….
I skimmed through most of book 2. Some commenters said she “put the guys through the ringer and made them grovel”……But she really didn’t. Petty immature pranks like her flirting with other guys or giving out the boys information for spammers. All stupid compared to the horror they put her through. She had moments when she stood tall, brave, and drew the line in the sand reminding them of her pain but she would instantly be back to giggling and flirting. She always went back to them. I understand that her character was supposed to be gentle and forgiving but I really am so disappointed in how quickly she forgave them all.
In book two sawyer was already back in her life and he hadn’t even apologized. And let’s be real he is absolutely so fucking annoying. He isn’t funny or witty. All he does is make stupid sex jokes and do kinky things to her. He’s has no depth and no real layers. He is such a lame character.
I liked her pain and trauma. I liked seeing her work through her manic episodes. You can feel her pain. Because it’s real. There is so much strength in being broken. Absolutely there is strength in forgiveness but…. I suppose, I wanted her to hardened. Suspicious and distant. Where the author wanted her soft and forgiving.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2021
Before I start my review, I would like to say there are trigger warnings that are mentioned at the beginning of this book (mentions of suicide and bullying). If you’re a sensitive reader, please, tread carefully.
I have hit backspace more than once trying to find the right words to describe this phenomenal debut by Drea - it has me in a mess of emotions right now and dying for the next book. The way she weaved this plot is completely flawless, I LOVE the multiple POVs that gave the inner thoughts of the main characters along with glimpses of their past. The flashbacks and POV switches are flawless while the plot is raw, gritty and relatable.
I adore Nix - this young woman was put thru Hell by Charlie, Sawyer, and Jude all the while fighting her own demons that she didn’t realize existed. I love her personality - she’s a warrior and survivor that lives up to her name along with being smart, talented and wise beyond her years. I found myself cheering her on as she stood up and took back her power from her tormentors.
Charlie, Sawyer, and Jude (Nix’s three tormentors) - the hate filled bully, the playboy, and the sensitive artist. I feel as if Drea is just scratching the surface with these young men. There is so much more than meets the eye with them and I have to know more.
Gunner is just a walking, talking dream - he is such a compassionate and lovable young man. I love the way he is perceptive and protective over Nix, yet lets her fight her battles while reassuring her that he has her back but he has some secrets and I am desperate to find them all out.
I found myself not able to take my eyes off as I got further in. I never would have predicted where Drea took this and I am 200% invested to see where she takes this. I have a feeling that this will be one of my favorite series read this year.
I have hit backspace more than once trying to find the right words to describe this phenomenal debut by Drea - it has me in a mess of emotions right now and dying for the next book. The way she weaved this plot is completely flawless, I LOVE the multiple POVs that gave the inner thoughts of the main characters along with glimpses of their past. The flashbacks and POV switches are flawless while the plot is raw, gritty and relatable.
I adore Nix - this young woman was put thru Hell by Charlie, Sawyer, and Jude all the while fighting her own demons that she didn’t realize existed. I love her personality - she’s a warrior and survivor that lives up to her name along with being smart, talented and wise beyond her years. I found myself cheering her on as she stood up and took back her power from her tormentors.
Charlie, Sawyer, and Jude (Nix’s three tormentors) - the hate filled bully, the playboy, and the sensitive artist. I feel as if Drea is just scratching the surface with these young men. There is so much more than meets the eye with them and I have to know more.
Gunner is just a walking, talking dream - he is such a compassionate and lovable young man. I love the way he is perceptive and protective over Nix, yet lets her fight her battles while reassuring her that he has her back but he has some secrets and I am desperate to find them all out.
I found myself not able to take my eyes off as I got further in. I never would have predicted where Drea took this and I am 200% invested to see where she takes this. I have a feeling that this will be one of my favorite series read this year.
May 4, 2022
U ended up skimming a lot. Can’t believe how she could forgive them after they drove her to suicide. Her (the fmc’s) dad is such a wimp and awful human being. I didn’t feel like her three bullies regretted their actions or actually got any real consequences for it. Also there is literally no reason for all the hate the stepbrother had for her. He literally got her dad as his dad (even though it wasn’t his bio dad) and he and his awful mom who should rot in hell got to live the perfect rich life with the money from the fmc’s bio dad. They (the three asshole bullies) did something so horrible to her that I can’t believe they aren’t in jail. And after that they act like they should be her protectors when everything bad that happens to her happens because of them. I seriously can’t understand how she can be civil with them after that and I seriously can’t understand how her bio dad can speak and be normal with the stepbrother (who is the one that started the whole bullying and humiliation). It’s all so fucked up.
May 1, 2022
a slow burn waste of time
This is more of a YA book with darker themes including: bullying and self harm. I can appreciate that this author put depth into some of the darker things considering self harm but that’s where it ended.
The back and forth angst over what happened,took all book to finally get around to, and by the time they point was finally made there wasn’t any shock factor, more a relief factor that you finally figured out that fateful day on what triggered her and now you as the reader can finally move on.
Not sure how I felt about the characters. Honestly- didn’t love them. I feel like when you write a bully romance there’s a fine line of what the guys can do and get away with vs if there is any way for redemption. And that line was just irrevocably crossed? There’s only so much pain and humiliation I think one can go through to where if they did forgive it’d be unrealistic and show poorly on the female lead if you are trying to establish a rebirth from timid to tough chick. the past encompasses 15 months that the the guys got sent away to different schools then came back. The way they acted just didn’t really lend to the fact they “grew up”
Again I didn’t love the characters. Of the guys the three of them had no real depth to them. There was very little that went into the characterization. Even the softer aspects weren’t endearing. And unrealistic. That Charlie can buy a prostit* and use her made no real sense he’s a senior in high school. It just didn’t seem plausible. And it just seemed weird that, that was added in for “titillating effect?”. Idk. The author then includes a little m/m but it’s so basic that it just feels like it was thrown in for a wow factor. There’s no depth to it, it’s super frustrating.
My fears came true as I got to the last page and realized this chick gets no home run steamy-times. What is the point of a RH if there’s no steam? This is your true definition of a slow burn YA. I just don’t think it was worth it. I don’t think I’d read the sequel as this was a very painful read.
This is more of a YA book with darker themes including: bullying and self harm. I can appreciate that this author put depth into some of the darker things considering self harm but that’s where it ended.
The back and forth angst over what happened,took all book to finally get around to, and by the time they point was finally made there wasn’t any shock factor, more a relief factor that you finally figured out that fateful day on what triggered her and now you as the reader can finally move on.
Not sure how I felt about the characters. Honestly- didn’t love them. I feel like when you write a bully romance there’s a fine line of what the guys can do and get away with vs if there is any way for redemption. And that line was just irrevocably crossed? There’s only so much pain and humiliation I think one can go through to where if they did forgive it’d be unrealistic and show poorly on the female lead if you are trying to establish a rebirth from timid to tough chick. the past encompasses 15 months that the the guys got sent away to different schools then came back. The way they acted just didn’t really lend to the fact they “grew up”
Again I didn’t love the characters. Of the guys the three of them had no real depth to them. There was very little that went into the characterization. Even the softer aspects weren’t endearing. And unrealistic. That Charlie can buy a prostit* and use her made no real sense he’s a senior in high school. It just didn’t seem plausible. And it just seemed weird that, that was added in for “titillating effect?”. Idk. The author then includes a little m/m but it’s so basic that it just feels like it was thrown in for a wow factor. There’s no depth to it, it’s super frustrating.
My fears came true as I got to the last page and realized this chick gets no home run steamy-times. What is the point of a RH if there’s no steam? This is your true definition of a slow burn YA. I just don’t think it was worth it. I don’t think I’d read the sequel as this was a very painful read.
October 3, 2022
This is a dark why-choose romance. There are definitely elements of bullying, although they’re mostly in the past. Nix has been through so much and she’s determined to come back stronger and live her dreams… and maybe some revenge 😈
I’m here for it. I loved this story, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I’m here for it. I loved this story, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
August 18, 2021
Incredible debut!
This book is a beautiful, emotionally raw masterpiece. It brought out so many feelings and memories. Reading about Nix and seeing not only her traumatic past but also how she survived was uplifting. As someone who suffered from depression a good chunk of my life it was nice to see a character go through the darkness and make it out on the other side stronger than before.
Nix was already broken due to her dad leaving her and her mom, but when her three tormentors at school tore her apart they stripped away the last of her light letting her sink into the darkness. After a year of recovery and learning to build herself up again Phoenix rises up from the quiet girl to a fierce woman who isn’t afraid to speak up for herself. She comes back to Blisshaven to finish her schooling but when she gets there she finds the guys that brought her to her lowest point are also back.
Nix showed incredible strength not just going back to where she was bullied, but being able to stand up against her former bullies. I liked that she wasn’t scared to put them in their place and tell them how she felt. Jude, Sawyer and Charlie were tough to get good feelings on. Just like Nix I don’t know whether to trust them after what they did. They seem sincere in their apologies but I still have hesitations. They have a lot of making up to do after what they pulled. Nix does have two friends at Blisshaven. Gunner who she met in treatment, and Jane who adopted her as her bff on the first day of school. I liked that Gunner was there for her and on her side even though he met the guys before knowing what they did. Jane was amazing. The definition of ride or die. She has Nix’s back no matter what and her energetic personality made me smile.
Drea did such an incredible job with this book. I enjoyed every second of it. I love that she included Nix’s vulnerable points also. Depression doesn’t simply go away and it was nice to see the accuracy of that. Even when Nix was doing well and didn’t have anything bad happening on the outside she still fell into the darkness of her mind at times. I’m eager to see what happens in the next book. Especially after that ending. I hope there is a lot more groveling by the guys. I want to see Nix show them she is not to be messed with.
This book is a beautiful, emotionally raw masterpiece. It brought out so many feelings and memories. Reading about Nix and seeing not only her traumatic past but also how she survived was uplifting. As someone who suffered from depression a good chunk of my life it was nice to see a character go through the darkness and make it out on the other side stronger than before.
Nix was already broken due to her dad leaving her and her mom, but when her three tormentors at school tore her apart they stripped away the last of her light letting her sink into the darkness. After a year of recovery and learning to build herself up again Phoenix rises up from the quiet girl to a fierce woman who isn’t afraid to speak up for herself. She comes back to Blisshaven to finish her schooling but when she gets there she finds the guys that brought her to her lowest point are also back.
Nix showed incredible strength not just going back to where she was bullied, but being able to stand up against her former bullies. I liked that she wasn’t scared to put them in their place and tell them how she felt. Jude, Sawyer and Charlie were tough to get good feelings on. Just like Nix I don’t know whether to trust them after what they did. They seem sincere in their apologies but I still have hesitations. They have a lot of making up to do after what they pulled. Nix does have two friends at Blisshaven. Gunner who she met in treatment, and Jane who adopted her as her bff on the first day of school. I liked that Gunner was there for her and on her side even though he met the guys before knowing what they did. Jane was amazing. The definition of ride or die. She has Nix’s back no matter what and her energetic personality made me smile.
Drea did such an incredible job with this book. I enjoyed every second of it. I love that she included Nix’s vulnerable points also. Depression doesn’t simply go away and it was nice to see the accuracy of that. Even when Nix was doing well and didn’t have anything bad happening on the outside she still fell into the darkness of her mind at times. I’m eager to see what happens in the next book. Especially after that ending. I hope there is a lot more groveling by the guys. I want to see Nix show them she is not to be messed with.
August 4, 2021
An incredible debut novel that was different than anything I've ever read! Not only were some aspects of the plot driven forward by music which was new for me, but unlike most of the dark romances that I've read this story takes places after the bullying has already occurred. This book had a ton of character and emotional development from both our victim and perpetrators. I am so proud of Nix's progress on her mental health journey throughout the book, who she's decided to be, and how she has the courage to fight her own battles even when she feels nervous or afraid. Seeing inside the heads of some love interests reveals that they feel genuine regret and remorse for their actions and it warms my heart to see them act protective of Nix now! This truly is a story of redemption and I absolutely love it so far! Another thing I noticed was that there were more characters than I'm used to seeing that were part of the LGTBQIA+ community and I LOVED IT! It added some new layers to the story that elevated the reading experience for me and after that ending I'm invested to see what our author has in store for all of our characters in the next book! I'm super excited to see what Nix will do now that she is choosing to release all of the anger that she's been feeling, those boys better watch out! 😈
October 28, 2021
Why did it take me so long to read this?!?!
Have I been living under a rock? How is it possible that I’m just reading this book?
Mental health is a hard thing to write about but this author wrote it perfectly.
While reading Nix’s story, I noticed things that I’ve dealt with my whole life. Being bipolar with an anxiety disorder really sucks and is hard to deal with sometimes. I have more good days than bad, but I still resonated with Nix so much!
Gunner, my gawd he is everything I could ever imagine. Jane is the perfect bestie, especially for Nix.
Charlie still needs some redemption but I’m sure this author will be able to pull it off.
Jude and Sawyer also still need more redemption but not as much as Charlie.
I can’t wait to find out what happens next!!!
Have I been living under a rock? How is it possible that I’m just reading this book?
Mental health is a hard thing to write about but this author wrote it perfectly.
While reading Nix’s story, I noticed things that I’ve dealt with my whole life. Being bipolar with an anxiety disorder really sucks and is hard to deal with sometimes. I have more good days than bad, but I still resonated with Nix so much!
Gunner, my gawd he is everything I could ever imagine. Jane is the perfect bestie, especially for Nix.
Charlie still needs some redemption but I’m sure this author will be able to pull it off.
Jude and Sawyer also still need more redemption but not as much as Charlie.
I can’t wait to find out what happens next!!!
August 13, 2021
This is a Bully/Academy/Enemies to Lovers Reverse Harem series and sweet Jesus did it BLOW MY MIND.
This is Drea's debut novel and honestly you would never know. She writes like she's been doing it her entire life. The words leap off the page and form vivid scenes that will play out in your mind over and over again.
Her characters are wonderfully written, you can't help but fall in love love them, even when they're being a**holes.
I fell in love with Nix, the FMC in a heart beat. Her resilience and strength is undeniable and after experiencing the year from hell, and a near death experience it's a wonder she had the strength to go back to Blisshaven. She's beautiful, sassy, strong and smart as heck. I need more of her asap!
Gunner, Jude, Charlie and Sawyer, my god. The character growth that happens with these 4 is *chef's kiss 💋* I know we often joke that with RH we'd never be able to pick just one, but in this case I can honestly say I could never. These 4 are it. My heart broke for them over and over despite the fact that they put Nix through hell and back in the flashbacks.
This is a slow burn book, however the tension alone was palpable. I was squirming in my seat, dying for the connections to form and the spice to happen.
This book blew me away and I cannot wait to read the next one.
Hands down a 5 ⭐ read for me!
This is Drea's debut novel and honestly you would never know. She writes like she's been doing it her entire life. The words leap off the page and form vivid scenes that will play out in your mind over and over again.
Her characters are wonderfully written, you can't help but fall in love love them, even when they're being a**holes.
I fell in love with Nix, the FMC in a heart beat. Her resilience and strength is undeniable and after experiencing the year from hell, and a near death experience it's a wonder she had the strength to go back to Blisshaven. She's beautiful, sassy, strong and smart as heck. I need more of her asap!
Gunner, Jude, Charlie and Sawyer, my god. The character growth that happens with these 4 is *chef's kiss 💋* I know we often joke that with RH we'd never be able to pick just one, but in this case I can honestly say I could never. These 4 are it. My heart broke for them over and over despite the fact that they put Nix through hell and back in the flashbacks.
This is a slow burn book, however the tension alone was palpable. I was squirming in my seat, dying for the connections to form and the spice to happen.
This book blew me away and I cannot wait to read the next one.
Hands down a 5 ⭐ read for me!
August 14, 2021
I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect from Caged in Flames. If anything I figured it would be a typical bully romance, and in some ways it was and it wasn’t.
Nix’s character has been through hell, but she’s a fighter and I’m fully invested now thanks to that ending 😅
Nix’s character has been through hell, but she’s a fighter and I’m fully invested now thanks to that ending 😅
September 5, 2021
This is Drea Denae's debut novel and I did enjoy it. It had a large focus on mental health issues with realistic descriptions that were refreshing. TW . Since this is a debut book one of the things I look at is how well it's edited and this was pretty good, no complaints on that front. I look forward to see where the next book goes.
August 14, 2021
I loved this book. This story hooked you in and didn't want to let you go. Phoenix was such a great character and I want her to be my best friend. A lot happened to her and I think it made her stronger. I liked her friendship with Jane and I liked how they became friends. Can't wait to read next book because this one ends with cliffy.
An ARC was provided in exhange for an honest review.
An ARC was provided in exhange for an honest review.
January 24, 2025
3.25⭐️
January 3, 2022
yawns
May 19, 2023
TW for suicide and bullying
Heard good things about the book so decided to check it out, and… I regret it? I mean I finished the book and chose to read the second one, but I think I was suffering the effects of extreme cognitive dissonance and my decision-making ability was impaired. Like……….. okay! I think overall this is a relatively tame bully romance, and I think bully romance just absolutely is not my thing, because I entirely could not wrap my mind around the concept of getting down with love interests that bullied me to suicide. Just… no. I love a good enemies-to-lovers but my friend, this ain’t it. And then even worse (???) the author uses all kinds of mental health language to excuse their behavior and the female lead’s choice to forgive and date them, but to me it felt MASSIVELY icky and read like a really misguided way to redeem THEM while shifting the blame to her.
Also I think I hate academy stories, which I KNOW I’ve commented on before, so I really don’t know why I keep trying.
Anyway. Conceptually and spiritually I think I hated it, but it was entertaining enough for me to read more of. Or I was bored at work. Maybe both?
Lovers of academy and bully romances, you are in the right place! No shade, seriously; this is just not the genre for me.
Heard good things about the book so decided to check it out, and… I regret it? I mean I finished the book and chose to read the second one, but I think I was suffering the effects of extreme cognitive dissonance and my decision-making ability was impaired. Like……….. okay! I think overall this is a relatively tame bully romance, and I think bully romance just absolutely is not my thing, because I entirely could not wrap my mind around the concept of getting down with love interests that bullied me to suicide. Just… no. I love a good enemies-to-lovers but my friend, this ain’t it. And then even worse (???) the author uses all kinds of mental health language to excuse their behavior and the female lead’s choice to forgive and date them, but to me it felt MASSIVELY icky and read like a really misguided way to redeem THEM while shifting the blame to her.
Also I think I hate academy stories, which I KNOW I’ve commented on before, so I really don’t know why I keep trying.
Anyway. Conceptually and spiritually I think I hated it, but it was entertaining enough for me to read more of. Or I was bored at work. Maybe both?
Lovers of academy and bully romances, you are in the right place! No shade, seriously; this is just not the genre for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2024
I think I definitely went into this with a different expectation than what this book delivered. I had expected this to be a book about a girl taking back her power and maybe a little revenge. Unfortunately, this was primarily about teen angst and bullies groveling for forgiveness.
The FMC equates herself to her namesake (Phoenix) and how she rose from the ashes stronger than before. She even had a great moment where she said her previous self died in that bathtub. But Nix really only upgraded her wardrobe, made 2 friends, and got slightly more of a backbone.
I wish she actually came back with a vengeance.
I also felt the ending was a bit hypocritical on her part. She was moving on, forgiving her bullies, and even getting flirty close with one. So when she throws away her entire friendship and budding relationship with one of the MMCs because he kissed a different former bully, it was betrayal? I’m confused on how Gunner could betray her in this moment when she was also getting close with these bullies and admittedly wanting to forgive them…
The FMC equates herself to her namesake (Phoenix) and how she rose from the ashes stronger than before. She even had a great moment where she said her previous self died in that bathtub. But Nix really only upgraded her wardrobe, made 2 friends, and got slightly more of a backbone.
I wish she actually came back with a vengeance.
I also felt the ending was a bit hypocritical on her part. She was moving on, forgiving her bullies, and even getting flirty close with one. So when she throws away her entire friendship and budding relationship with one of the MMCs because he kissed a different former bully, it was betrayal? I’m confused on how Gunner could betray her in this moment when she was also getting close with these bullies and admittedly wanting to forgive them…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2021
Drea Denae's debut novel is definitely different and a bit refreshing.
It did take me a minute to get into it, the premise of the bully/dark romance is a little different and is very heavy on the mental health of the character from the start so it was a bit hard for me to relate to the character, but that is a personal preference.
However, despite that, Drea did a wonderful job of writing this book. The plot moves forward at a great pace and keeps the reader trapped in her world. This is definitely an emotional rollercoaster of a book driven forward by a love of music.
This book does deal with self harm and suicidal thoughts, but this is something that makes the character who she is and what drives her forward. Nix shows a subtle strength that many people will be able to connect with.
Well done and worth the read!
It did take me a minute to get into it, the premise of the bully/dark romance is a little different and is very heavy on the mental health of the character from the start so it was a bit hard for me to relate to the character, but that is a personal preference.
However, despite that, Drea did a wonderful job of writing this book. The plot moves forward at a great pace and keeps the reader trapped in her world. This is definitely an emotional rollercoaster of a book driven forward by a love of music.
This book does deal with self harm and suicidal thoughts, but this is something that makes the character who she is and what drives her forward. Nix shows a subtle strength that many people will be able to connect with.
Well done and worth the read!
August 15, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Story
🔥🔥🔥🔥Steamy
🎻I'm dying for book 2 now. Officially dying, and will be thinking about this book for weeks, months, years! To say I see and relate to Nix in ways I don't even understand fully. I don't battle with mental health the same way, but my head space isn't always okay and just seeing that in this book and the struggles to rise again. I literally don't have the words to tell you how much this story resonated with my soul.
🎻So quick summary Phoenix Carter aka Diana Phoenix Westbrook, struggles with vast mental health. And like teens who struggle with these issues goes through highs and lows. One of her lows she tried to end it. 🚨Big trigger if you can't handle suicide attempts🚨Bullying by the 3 school Kings: Charlie, Sawyer, and Jude, didn't help to contribute to safe space.
🎻There is also the big issue of her dad leaving her and her mom for Charlie's mom. But Charlie has his own issues and while it doesn't excuse what he orchestrated, it's a factor. Sawyer and Jude are blindly loyal which sucks cuz they develop true feelings for her.
🎻Fast forward 15 months and Nix has been reborn. She's working on her mental health. She ready to go back to Blisshaven Academy for her senior year and focus on her music. She befriends Jude's cousin Jane who is amazing. Every girl deserves a friend like Jane and relate there cuz I have one. Ride or die always type of friend.
🎻Then there is Gunner. Nix and Gunner like each other. But Gunner also met the guys over the summer and some stuff happened. Charlie, Sawyer, Jude are also back after a year away. They fought to get back into Blisshaven. But they don't want to torture Nix. They want something completely different this time.
🎻For real book 2 can't come any sooner. We ended on a cliffhanger, and I have to know how Nix is going to handle things! Excellent debut novel Drea Denae!!!
#bookstagram #bookblogger #2021reads #review #arcreview #arcreader #cagedinflames #blisshavenacademy #dreadenae #reverseharem #haremhomies #phoenixcharter #charliewestbrook #sawyer #jude #gunner #janeisthebest #canjanebeintheharem #rideordiechick #besties #sucideaware
🔥🔥🔥🔥Steamy
🎻I'm dying for book 2 now. Officially dying, and will be thinking about this book for weeks, months, years! To say I see and relate to Nix in ways I don't even understand fully. I don't battle with mental health the same way, but my head space isn't always okay and just seeing that in this book and the struggles to rise again. I literally don't have the words to tell you how much this story resonated with my soul.
🎻So quick summary Phoenix Carter aka Diana Phoenix Westbrook, struggles with vast mental health. And like teens who struggle with these issues goes through highs and lows. One of her lows she tried to end it. 🚨Big trigger if you can't handle suicide attempts🚨Bullying by the 3 school Kings: Charlie, Sawyer, and Jude, didn't help to contribute to safe space.
🎻There is also the big issue of her dad leaving her and her mom for Charlie's mom. But Charlie has his own issues and while it doesn't excuse what he orchestrated, it's a factor. Sawyer and Jude are blindly loyal which sucks cuz they develop true feelings for her.
🎻Fast forward 15 months and Nix has been reborn. She's working on her mental health. She ready to go back to Blisshaven Academy for her senior year and focus on her music. She befriends Jude's cousin Jane who is amazing. Every girl deserves a friend like Jane and relate there cuz I have one. Ride or die always type of friend.
🎻Then there is Gunner. Nix and Gunner like each other. But Gunner also met the guys over the summer and some stuff happened. Charlie, Sawyer, Jude are also back after a year away. They fought to get back into Blisshaven. But they don't want to torture Nix. They want something completely different this time.
🎻For real book 2 can't come any sooner. We ended on a cliffhanger, and I have to know how Nix is going to handle things! Excellent debut novel Drea Denae!!!
#bookstagram #bookblogger #2021reads #review #arcreview #arcreader #cagedinflames #blisshavenacademy #dreadenae #reverseharem #haremhomies #phoenixcharter #charliewestbrook #sawyer #jude #gunner #janeisthebest #canjanebeintheharem #rideordiechick #besties #sucideaware
August 26, 2022
This was... wow.
I've never read a bully academy where it seems as if book 1 (normally the bullying) and 2 (normally the redemption or regret from the guys) are mixed together. You get the bullying in flashbacks while you experience Nix coming back from the ashes in current times. Being able to experience it this way hits hard but also makes the bullying feel less overwhelming in ways.
Diana, now Phoenix (Nix), was bullied at school by her estranged fathers adopted son, Charlie. He also gets his friends, Jude and Sawyer, to help, along with the whole school. This is rather standard for bully books. However, this book starts off with Nix coming back after the bullying. You'll get flashbacks of what happened throughout the book to fill in blanks but Nix now has the friendship of Gunner to help her along the way. Will she learn to forgive or will she hold a grudge?
This is a book that has triggers. I personally don't have anything I'll refuse to read but reading about how a person is feeling inside when they're being beaten down is hard. Drea Denae writes this mental turmoil beautifully and made me spend a lot of time cutting onions. I'm not crying!
You also get POV's from Charlie, Jude, Sawyer and even Gunner. This allows you to see inside their heads a little to lessen a lot of the blows. However, Charlie, Jude and Sawyer's chapters didn't make me dislike them any less for their bullying. What they did to Nix was disgusting.
I have a love / hate relationship with books like this. I love how Drea was able to make me feel so intensely for Nix and what she was going through. I hate how broken something like this can make you feel too.
I personally feel as if Nix gave into some things a little too easily considering what she went through but in the end, it didn't detract from the storyline and all of the feels. This isn't one of those crazy 'omg whats going to happen!?' cliffhangers. It definitely leaves things open for Burn It Down and I'm excited to see where it goes.
I've never read a bully academy where it seems as if book 1 (normally the bullying) and 2 (normally the redemption or regret from the guys) are mixed together. You get the bullying in flashbacks while you experience Nix coming back from the ashes in current times. Being able to experience it this way hits hard but also makes the bullying feel less overwhelming in ways.
Diana, now Phoenix (Nix), was bullied at school by her estranged fathers adopted son, Charlie. He also gets his friends, Jude and Sawyer, to help, along with the whole school. This is rather standard for bully books. However, this book starts off with Nix coming back after the bullying. You'll get flashbacks of what happened throughout the book to fill in blanks but Nix now has the friendship of Gunner to help her along the way. Will she learn to forgive or will she hold a grudge?
This is a book that has triggers. I personally don't have anything I'll refuse to read but reading about how a person is feeling inside when they're being beaten down is hard. Drea Denae writes this mental turmoil beautifully and made me spend a lot of time cutting onions. I'm not crying!
You also get POV's from Charlie, Jude, Sawyer and even Gunner. This allows you to see inside their heads a little to lessen a lot of the blows. However, Charlie, Jude and Sawyer's chapters didn't make me dislike them any less for their bullying. What they did to Nix was disgusting.
I have a love / hate relationship with books like this. I love how Drea was able to make me feel so intensely for Nix and what she was going through. I hate how broken something like this can make you feel too.
I personally feel as if Nix gave into some things a little too easily considering what she went through but in the end, it didn't detract from the storyline and all of the feels. This isn't one of those crazy 'omg whats going to happen!?' cliffhangers. It definitely leaves things open for Burn It Down and I'm excited to see where it goes.
August 4, 2021
Amazing but I need, no heck, I want so much more!!! That was fantastic. I didn’t want to put it down. I actually read it slowly so I didn’t miss anything. Absolutely amazing writing! My favorite writing is dual point of view and in this case each character had a voice, so it was told in multiple points of view, which I loved!
I love love love Phoenix so much. She is strong, a fighter. She has had so much done to her, but she is done being walked all over. It is her time to rise up and fight. That is just what she does! And the guys, holy amazing. Gunner, Jude, Sawyer and Charlie. These four each have their own set of baggage. They have multiple layers to them that we barely got to learn about in this book. And I so am so excited for so much more from them. I couldn’t pick a favorite. First it was all Gunner, then Jude, then Sawyer then back to Gunner then here comes Charlie, thank you Drea for creating all of them. They had me wicked swooning!!!
We need to talk about the awesomeness too that is the best friend Jane. I love Jane so much. She makes Nix better. She brings out an awesome side of Nix that I absolutely loved. I not only hope that Jane shines as much in the next book as she did in this one, but I hope she gets her own book someday, she is fantastic.
This book had heart, it had passion and it had was so incredibly well written! I love how detailed Drea’s writing is. Her passion shines through her words. She gives you so much of who the characters were on top of who they are now. I am so in love with all of them. I can’t wait to see what else Drea Denae has for us, because she is incredible!
I love love love Phoenix so much. She is strong, a fighter. She has had so much done to her, but she is done being walked all over. It is her time to rise up and fight. That is just what she does! And the guys, holy amazing. Gunner, Jude, Sawyer and Charlie. These four each have their own set of baggage. They have multiple layers to them that we barely got to learn about in this book. And I so am so excited for so much more from them. I couldn’t pick a favorite. First it was all Gunner, then Jude, then Sawyer then back to Gunner then here comes Charlie, thank you Drea for creating all of them. They had me wicked swooning!!!
We need to talk about the awesomeness too that is the best friend Jane. I love Jane so much. She makes Nix better. She brings out an awesome side of Nix that I absolutely loved. I not only hope that Jane shines as much in the next book as she did in this one, but I hope she gets her own book someday, she is fantastic.
This book had heart, it had passion and it had was so incredibly well written! I love how detailed Drea’s writing is. Her passion shines through her words. She gives you so much of who the characters were on top of who they are now. I am so in love with all of them. I can’t wait to see what else Drea Denae has for us, because she is incredible!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2021
Phoenix Carter is returning to Blisshaven Academy, they have the best music program and she deserves the best education she can get to open doors. It's been a long road to this point in her recovery but she has the support she needs. Both her mother Cheryl, and her Therapist, Dr. Grace are a phone call away if she needs them. A pleasant surprise once she's on campus is Gunner Wright. He volunteered at Green Woods and they had several conversations before she was discharged. This is a great beginning.
The first day of classes begins with a welcome back assembly of all students. Gunner and Nix head there after a pleasant breakfast. This is when Jane introduces herself, she didn't recognize either of them and this is her second year attending Blisshaven. They immediately hit it off, then things take a turn when the guys who are not supposed to be there, are indeed there.
Charlie Westbrook and his friends Jude and Sawyer had attended different schools the previous year. It was Jude's mother's idea for them to write letters of apology to the headmaster if they wanted back into Blisshaven. It worked and they were surprised the school didn't want monetary compensation.
Phoenix/Nix isn't going to let anything stop her from succeeding, especially not them. With every page I admired her, I love her friendship with Jane and Gunner. There's just so much that's going to play out, with twists and turns all over the place.
I'm still not seeing a way for this to work, but I can be patient. I am truly impressed with this debut book for Drea and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Bravo!
The first day of classes begins with a welcome back assembly of all students. Gunner and Nix head there after a pleasant breakfast. This is when Jane introduces herself, she didn't recognize either of them and this is her second year attending Blisshaven. They immediately hit it off, then things take a turn when the guys who are not supposed to be there, are indeed there.
Charlie Westbrook and his friends Jude and Sawyer had attended different schools the previous year. It was Jude's mother's idea for them to write letters of apology to the headmaster if they wanted back into Blisshaven. It worked and they were surprised the school didn't want monetary compensation.
Phoenix/Nix isn't going to let anything stop her from succeeding, especially not them. With every page I admired her, I love her friendship with Jane and Gunner. There's just so much that's going to play out, with twists and turns all over the place.
I'm still not seeing a way for this to work, but I can be patient. I am truly impressed with this debut book for Drea and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Bravo!
August 20, 2021
Wow, The FMC of this book is so strong. I was completely in awe of her. Nix goes through bullying and her life has never made her feel so good about herself. Everything bad that happened to her is set in past and now she is healing from it. I like how we see her doing the positive things in life that helps her to bring her strong side. The reason I like her character so much is even in the past snippets we get, she has always been resolute. She did her thing, got through shit and gave it back to the guys in her way. Now in the present she is much stronger but the way she lays down the law and avoids the guys is refreshing to read. Like she does not want to play games or take revenge, she focuses on herself, her well being and she puts herself first. She has this amazing best friend in the story who is such a fun character. Jane cracks me up so much. We also have a guy Gunner who is part of the harem but not part of the bullying past. I like that he is just so sweet about feelings and takes care of her emotionally. Though he has certain things he needs to explore or come out with. Sawyer is an interesting guy, I got to know him more from the past snippets than the current story. So it will be interesting to know more of him. Jude is a calm, artistic kind of guy who also comes off as sweet. And he is the softest of all the boys I think. Charlie, well that boy has some serious demons and well they feel too heavy but I am interested in knowing about it. The ending is not a crazy cliff hanger and for that I am thankful. I like that the ending leaves us feeling excited about how Nix is going to rain down some hell and show the boys what they are up against.
August 10, 2021
First off, this is the trigger warning at the beginning of the book: *This book contains material that may be triggering for some readers. Suicide and self harm described. Mental health is an important theme of Nix's journey.*
Well this book was just amazing. So different to what I normally read, it was heavily focused on mental health and depression which I actually really enjoyed. It was super interesting to get into the mind of someone suffering with Major Depressive Disorder and see how they felt.
I really loved the FMC Nix, she was sooo strong after the trauma she had experienced at the hands of her three bullies. Going back to the school she came from and facing them again with her head held high took serious bravery and she had so much of it. I admired her so much, but I also loved that her trauma and depression weren’t magically healed in the book and that she still had lows.
The side characters in this were super interesting and complex! The three ‘bullies’ Charlie, Jude and Sawyer all had a lot more to them than on the service. You wanted to hate them for what they’d done to Nix but they were so deep under the surface that they made it hard. And then Jane and Gunner.. her two friends and allies in the school. Jane was the sweetest best friend ever and I loved their bond. And Gunner was more complicated than it seemed too.
A really interesting book, so much going on and I can’t wait for the next one. It does end on a cliffhanger but I’d say it’s a ‘gentle’ one 😂 not too upsetting!
Well this book was just amazing. So different to what I normally read, it was heavily focused on mental health and depression which I actually really enjoyed. It was super interesting to get into the mind of someone suffering with Major Depressive Disorder and see how they felt.
I really loved the FMC Nix, she was sooo strong after the trauma she had experienced at the hands of her three bullies. Going back to the school she came from and facing them again with her head held high took serious bravery and she had so much of it. I admired her so much, but I also loved that her trauma and depression weren’t magically healed in the book and that she still had lows.
The side characters in this were super interesting and complex! The three ‘bullies’ Charlie, Jude and Sawyer all had a lot more to them than on the service. You wanted to hate them for what they’d done to Nix but they were so deep under the surface that they made it hard. And then Jane and Gunner.. her two friends and allies in the school. Jane was the sweetest best friend ever and I loved their bond. And Gunner was more complicated than it seemed too.
A really interesting book, so much going on and I can’t wait for the next one. It does end on a cliffhanger but I’d say it’s a ‘gentle’ one 😂 not too upsetting!
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August 14, 2021I love this book so much indont know where to start. In Drea Denaes duet she shows such a talent for story telling, writing, depth, and wit. She's a natural whos is meant to write. She writes about mental heath beautifully & incorporates it into the story in a well balanced way. Its the FMC Nix has always sturggled with & even when treated continues as in real life. Nix is back at blisshaven after being in treatment after she was bulliedm Theoughout the book we get flash backs to the bulling of the past. In present day Nix is back ready to start a new and reclaim her life. Even after finding out the guys are back. She had a best friend & a new love interes that have her back & shes got her own back this go around.
Her new love interests has a recent history with her formee bullies before knowing who they were. And the bullies are back with different levels of regret and maybe wanting to make thing ip to her. I don't want to give to much away.
The story will have you glued figuring out what happened in the past. Why it happned. What going on in the present. Figuring out all the characters dynamics and motives. And really falling for these fall written and well rounded charathers. And most of all Nix and her journey to follow her dreams and enjoy life and school, try ti make peace with the past, and deal with these guys and students and anything that comes her way. The last page will leave you so excitied for the next book. This is a reserve harem with bully flash back and smazing characters and story. And Charlie is mine😍🖤
Her new love interests has a recent history with her formee bullies before knowing who they were. And the bullies are back with different levels of regret and maybe wanting to make thing ip to her. I don't want to give to much away.
The story will have you glued figuring out what happened in the past. Why it happned. What going on in the present. Figuring out all the characters dynamics and motives. And really falling for these fall written and well rounded charathers. And most of all Nix and her journey to follow her dreams and enjoy life and school, try ti make peace with the past, and deal with these guys and students and anything that comes her way. The last page will leave you so excitied for the next book. This is a reserve harem with bully flash back and smazing characters and story. And Charlie is mine😍🖤
August 13, 2021
Phenomenal debut, cannot wait for more!
This is a Bully/Academy/Enemies to Lovers Reverse Harem series and sweet Jesus did it BLOW MY MIND.
This is Drea's debut novel and honestly you would never know. She writes like she's been doing it her entire life. The words leap off the page and form vivid scenes that will play out in your mind over and over again.
Her characters are wonderfully written, you can't help but fall in love with them, even when they're being a**holes.
I fell in love with Nix, the FMC in a heart beat. Her resilience and strength is undeniable and after experiencing the year from hell, and a near death experience it's a wonder she had the strength to go back to Blisshaven. She's beautiful, sassy, strong and smart as heck. I need more of her asap!
Gunner, Jude, Charlie and Sawyer, my god. The character growth that happens with these 4 is *chef's kiss 💋* I know we often joke that with RH we'd never be able to pick just one, but in this case I can honestly say I could never. These 4 are it. My heart broke for them over and over despite the fact that they put Nix through hell and back in the flashbacks.
This is a slow burn book, however the tension alone was palpable. I was squirming in my seat, dying for the connections to form and the spice to happen.
This book blew me away and I cannot wait to read the next one.
Hands down a 5 ⭐ read for me!
This is a Bully/Academy/Enemies to Lovers Reverse Harem series and sweet Jesus did it BLOW MY MIND.
This is Drea's debut novel and honestly you would never know. She writes like she's been doing it her entire life. The words leap off the page and form vivid scenes that will play out in your mind over and over again.
Her characters are wonderfully written, you can't help but fall in love with them, even when they're being a**holes.
I fell in love with Nix, the FMC in a heart beat. Her resilience and strength is undeniable and after experiencing the year from hell, and a near death experience it's a wonder she had the strength to go back to Blisshaven. She's beautiful, sassy, strong and smart as heck. I need more of her asap!
Gunner, Jude, Charlie and Sawyer, my god. The character growth that happens with these 4 is *chef's kiss 💋* I know we often joke that with RH we'd never be able to pick just one, but in this case I can honestly say I could never. These 4 are it. My heart broke for them over and over despite the fact that they put Nix through hell and back in the flashbacks.
This is a slow burn book, however the tension alone was palpable. I was squirming in my seat, dying for the connections to form and the spice to happen.
This book blew me away and I cannot wait to read the next one.
Hands down a 5 ⭐ read for me!
August 17, 2021
Whoa. Let me tell you, this book is heavy, it is raw, and it is emotional. Drea is not afraid to write about real issues and she takes something so real and so traumatic and turns it into something beautiful.
Phoenix, or Nix, has risen from the flames of her past and is taking her life back. She has learned to be strong, learned to hold her head high, and learned that she is in control of her future. There are moments where Nix's armor slips, but this brings another level of realness to the story.
Her previous tormentors are back, and trying to right their wrongs. Jude and Sawyer are trying a bit harder than Charlie, but he also has the most to make up for. Gunner is just what Nix needs coming back to her old school. He is supportive and chooses her no matter what. I love watching their relationship develop.
When we started getting towards the end, the muddy waters were starting to clear and Nix's life seems to be falling into place. Nix is strong, but with everything she has endured, she can crack easily. I was sort of expecting the end, but I was not entirely sure how she would have handled it. My heart aches for her, because if secrets would not have been kept, she may have seen it differently.
Overall, I loved this book. I couldn't put it down. It grabbed me from the beginning and I kept wanting more and more. I loved all the flashbacks because we get to see Nix go from who she was to who she is now. I cannot wait for the next book. I need more Blisshaven!!
Phoenix, or Nix, has risen from the flames of her past and is taking her life back. She has learned to be strong, learned to hold her head high, and learned that she is in control of her future. There are moments where Nix's armor slips, but this brings another level of realness to the story.
Her previous tormentors are back, and trying to right their wrongs. Jude and Sawyer are trying a bit harder than Charlie, but he also has the most to make up for. Gunner is just what Nix needs coming back to her old school. He is supportive and chooses her no matter what. I love watching their relationship develop.
When we started getting towards the end, the muddy waters were starting to clear and Nix's life seems to be falling into place. Nix is strong, but with everything she has endured, she can crack easily. I was sort of expecting the end, but I was not entirely sure how she would have handled it. My heart aches for her, because if secrets would not have been kept, she may have seen it differently.
Overall, I loved this book. I couldn't put it down. It grabbed me from the beginning and I kept wanting more and more. I loved all the flashbacks because we get to see Nix go from who she was to who she is now. I cannot wait for the next book. I need more Blisshaven!!
August 19, 2021
Wow, what a spectacular debut! I can still feel the angst swirling in my chest from this gut wrenching, emotional read. It’s books like this that remind me why I love taking a chance on new authors.
Caged in Flames is so much more than a typical high school bully romance. It’s a story about healing, rebirth, and taking control of your own mental health. This book was filled with so much emotion and angst, but also plenty of shining and beautiful moments as the FMC Nix starts to form meaningful friendships with people she can trust. The multi-POV kept me engaged and invested in each of the characters and I appreciated experiencing these moments from the perspective of the guys as well as Nix.
The bullying all takes place in the past through flashbacks and doesn’t go into too much detail. These flashbacks actually focus more on the characters’ emotions than the actual bullying that took place. Another thing to note is that it looks like we’ve got a seriously loyal female BFF which I always appreciate seeing in a romance book.
Drea’s writing was seriously brilliant, dredging up an insane level of emotion and even bringing me to tears(which doesn’t happen often)! After that cliffhanger I’m on pins and needles waiting to see what happens next and how Nix tackles everything. Absolutely stunning debut from a brilliant new author!
Caged in Flames is so much more than a typical high school bully romance. It’s a story about healing, rebirth, and taking control of your own mental health. This book was filled with so much emotion and angst, but also plenty of shining and beautiful moments as the FMC Nix starts to form meaningful friendships with people she can trust. The multi-POV kept me engaged and invested in each of the characters and I appreciated experiencing these moments from the perspective of the guys as well as Nix.
The bullying all takes place in the past through flashbacks and doesn’t go into too much detail. These flashbacks actually focus more on the characters’ emotions than the actual bullying that took place. Another thing to note is that it looks like we’ve got a seriously loyal female BFF which I always appreciate seeing in a romance book.
Drea’s writing was seriously brilliant, dredging up an insane level of emotion and even bringing me to tears(which doesn’t happen often)! After that cliffhanger I’m on pins and needles waiting to see what happens next and how Nix tackles everything. Absolutely stunning debut from a brilliant new author!
August 2, 2024
2.5 stars
The realist thing in this book is nix’s depression.
I liked gunner for all of 5 minutes and then he kinda turned shit. I love a bully romance, I love a traumatised female what I don’t love is half arsed apologies and cop out explanations.
What I did like about this book is the mental health rep, it was well represented and didn’t do a too bad portrayal of depression, I do think her PTSD from all the bullying she received was kinda forgotten about especially when she bumped into said bullies when her only solution was they’re weren’t supposed to be there - she didn’t really experience any of those kinda episodes which is a bit of a let down.
This isn’t a slow burn, it’s an awkward burn, yes they had a relationship previously 2/4 of the guys plus a weird summer with 2 of the guys together - but there’s no substance, there’s little to no reason for Nix to have these feelings, if there is we aren’t really shown it, which makes the present day ‘feelings’ feel over the top and dramatic and presents Nix as a bit of a pushover. 1 half arsed apology and she’s forgiving herself, and therefore giving these asswipes the time of day to have feelings for again, it’s a tad delulu and not the attractive kind.
I will be reading the next book in the series but only because it’s short.
The realist thing in this book is nix’s depression.
I liked gunner for all of 5 minutes and then he kinda turned shit. I love a bully romance, I love a traumatised female what I don’t love is half arsed apologies and cop out explanations.
What I did like about this book is the mental health rep, it was well represented and didn’t do a too bad portrayal of depression, I do think her PTSD from all the bullying she received was kinda forgotten about especially when she bumped into said bullies when her only solution was they’re weren’t supposed to be there - she didn’t really experience any of those kinda episodes which is a bit of a let down.
This isn’t a slow burn, it’s an awkward burn, yes they had a relationship previously 2/4 of the guys plus a weird summer with 2 of the guys together - but there’s no substance, there’s little to no reason for Nix to have these feelings, if there is we aren’t really shown it, which makes the present day ‘feelings’ feel over the top and dramatic and presents Nix as a bit of a pushover. 1 half arsed apology and she’s forgiving herself, and therefore giving these asswipes the time of day to have feelings for again, it’s a tad delulu and not the attractive kind.
I will be reading the next book in the series but only because it’s short.
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