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Hidden Valley Elite #5
Cruel Hate
Knocked up by the QB.
Harassed by punt bunnies.
Falling for the enemy isn’t an option here.
I threw caution to the wind and my v-card at the one man I can’t stand. What did that get me? Pregnant.
Now, we’re both screwed. Mr. Superstar wants the punt bunnies off his back. I want my parents off mine. To do that, he proposes a fake relationship. But I know the truth… Spending time with him can only lead to trouble.
After all, neither of us has an answer to the biggest problem of all.
How fake can it stay when he’s the father of the child I’m carrying?
Cruel Hate is an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult, bully romance with pregnancy and plenty of angst. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing. It is not a standalone and does end in a cliffhanger that continues with a ton of heat and a HEA in Cruel Love.
Harassed by punt bunnies.
Falling for the enemy isn’t an option here.
I threw caution to the wind and my v-card at the one man I can’t stand. What did that get me? Pregnant.
Now, we’re both screwed. Mr. Superstar wants the punt bunnies off his back. I want my parents off mine. To do that, he proposes a fake relationship. But I know the truth… Spending time with him can only lead to trouble.
After all, neither of us has an answer to the biggest problem of all.
How fake can it stay when he’s the father of the child I’m carrying?
Cruel Hate is an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult, bully romance with pregnancy and plenty of angst. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing. It is not a standalone and does end in a cliffhanger that continues with a ton of heat and a HEA in Cruel Love.
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2023
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August 13, 2023
Cruel Hate
By Isla Vaughn
⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️
A ONS at a party with the QB changed everything. One. Time… and what happened? She fell Pregnant.
Phoenix wants the punt bunnies off his back.
Aspen wants her parents off hers.
Enter the a fake relationship.But how fake can it stay when he’s the father of the child she’s carrying?
** Cruel Start sets the stage for the duet and should be read before Cruel Hate.
Cruel Hate is an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult, sports and bully romance with pregnancy and plenty of angst. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing. This duet follows the prequel, Cruel Start. It is not a standalone and does end in a cliffhanger that continues with a ton of heat and a HEA in Cruel Love
#cruelhate #islavaughn #darkromance #bookish #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #smut #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #review #arcreader #whychooseromance #whychoose
By Isla Vaughn
⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️
A ONS at a party with the QB changed everything. One. Time… and what happened? She fell Pregnant.
Phoenix wants the punt bunnies off his back.
Aspen wants her parents off hers.
Enter the a fake relationship.But how fake can it stay when he’s the father of the child she’s carrying?
** Cruel Start sets the stage for the duet and should be read before Cruel Hate.
Cruel Hate is an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult, sports and bully romance with pregnancy and plenty of angst. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing. This duet follows the prequel, Cruel Start. It is not a standalone and does end in a cliffhanger that continues with a ton of heat and a HEA in Cruel Love
#cruelhate #islavaughn #darkromance #bookish #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #smut #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #review #arcreader #whychooseromance #whychoose
September 1, 2023
4.5 stars
This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.
Cruel Hate is the sixth book in this enemies-to-lovers, NA sports romance in the dark Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the first book in Aspen and Phoenix’s story after the prequel Cruel Start. Read them all in order is a must so you don’t miss out on anything.
Phoenix is one of the resident bullies and Aspen can’t help but fall under his spell. With lots of passion, angst, drama, thrills, fear, lies and secrets, deceit, harassment and jealousy there is something for everyone who loves living on the edge of darkness.
Aspen never meant to get involved with the enemy, it was only meant to be beneficial to them both. She expected it to happen but now that it has what will Phoenix think.
Phoenix decided she was the one and he gets what he wants only now it has come at a price.
You can’t help but fall in love with these devilish characters of course there are some you will like and some you will not but take a trip to the dark side and find out.
I’ve said it before, but I am saying it again this series just keeps on getting better and better.
I can’t wait to see what comes next.
This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.
Cruel Hate is the sixth book in this enemies-to-lovers, NA sports romance in the dark Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the first book in Aspen and Phoenix’s story after the prequel Cruel Start. Read them all in order is a must so you don’t miss out on anything.
Phoenix is one of the resident bullies and Aspen can’t help but fall under his spell. With lots of passion, angst, drama, thrills, fear, lies and secrets, deceit, harassment and jealousy there is something for everyone who loves living on the edge of darkness.
Aspen never meant to get involved with the enemy, it was only meant to be beneficial to them both. She expected it to happen but now that it has what will Phoenix think.
Phoenix decided she was the one and he gets what he wants only now it has come at a price.
You can’t help but fall in love with these devilish characters of course there are some you will like and some you will not but take a trip to the dark side and find out.
I’ve said it before, but I am saying it again this series just keeps on getting better and better.
I can’t wait to see what comes next.
September 1, 2023
4.5 stars
This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.
Cruel Hate is the sixth book in this enemies-to-lovers, NA sports romance in the dark Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the first book in Aspen and Phoenix’s story after the prequel Cruel Start. Read them all in order is a must so you don’t miss out on anything.
Phoenix is one of the resident bullies and Aspen can’t help but fall under his spell. With lots of passion, angst, drama, thrills, fear, lies and secrets, deceit, harassment and jealousy there is something for everyone who loves living on the edge of darkness.
Aspen never meant to get involved with the enemy, it was only meant to be beneficial to them both. She expected it to happen but now that it has what will Phoenix think.
Phoenix decided she was the one and he gets what he wants only now it has come at a price.
You can’t help but fall in love with these devilish characters of course there are some you will like and some you will not but take a trip to the dark side and find out.
I’ve said it before, but I am saying it again this series just keeps on getting better and better.
I can’t wait to see what comes next.
This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.
Cruel Hate is the sixth book in this enemies-to-lovers, NA sports romance in the dark Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the first book in Aspen and Phoenix’s story after the prequel Cruel Start. Read them all in order is a must so you don’t miss out on anything.
Phoenix is one of the resident bullies and Aspen can’t help but fall under his spell. With lots of passion, angst, drama, thrills, fear, lies and secrets, deceit, harassment and jealousy there is something for everyone who loves living on the edge of darkness.
Aspen never meant to get involved with the enemy, it was only meant to be beneficial to them both. She expected it to happen but now that it has what will Phoenix think.
Phoenix decided she was the one and he gets what he wants only now it has come at a price.
You can’t help but fall in love with these devilish characters of course there are some you will like and some you will not but take a trip to the dark side and find out.
I’ve said it before, but I am saying it again this series just keeps on getting better and better.
I can’t wait to see what comes next.
August 31, 2023
Isla Vaughn is a new to me author and I am so happy I stumbled across the sign up for this ARC. I saw surprise pregnancy and I jumped on it. It did not disappoint!
The story is best enjoyed if you read the prologue novella Cruel Start. Aspen discovers she is pregnant after a one night stand with the handsome quarterback. Boiii these two go on a ride of push & pull. Phoenix starts as a meanie but he has his heart in the right place. He is driven and wants to do right by Aspen.
𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒃𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝑨𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒐𝒐. 𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕.
Aspen is a strong girl and has dreams. She is also determined to make it all work. There are some sweet moments but these two still have some growth left and I cannot wait to see where it goes.
The side characters are so interesting. I will be reading their own books as well.
The story is fact paced, has little steam, lots of drama but the next book promises more steam!
It does end in a cliffhanger, that still has me on the edge... I need to know what happens next!!
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻.
➛ 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐀𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
➛ 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐎𝐕 - 𝑨𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒏 & 𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒙
➛ College, Dark Sports Romance, Surprise Pregnancy, Hate-To-Love, Fake Dating, Bully, Angst
➛ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 🌶
➛ 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫
➛ Series: 𝗛𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗘𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗲, book 5. Cannot be read as a standalone! Part of a duet!
➛ Recommended to read prologue novella 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 before reading 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗲
➛ Next book: 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲. Second book of the duet, releases September 2023
➛ 𝐊𝐔 ✅
The story is best enjoyed if you read the prologue novella Cruel Start. Aspen discovers she is pregnant after a one night stand with the handsome quarterback. Boiii these two go on a ride of push & pull. Phoenix starts as a meanie but he has his heart in the right place. He is driven and wants to do right by Aspen.
𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒃𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝑰 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝑨𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒐𝒐. 𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒉𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕.
Aspen is a strong girl and has dreams. She is also determined to make it all work. There are some sweet moments but these two still have some growth left and I cannot wait to see where it goes.
The side characters are so interesting. I will be reading their own books as well.
The story is fact paced, has little steam, lots of drama but the next book promises more steam!
It does end in a cliffhanger, that still has me on the edge... I need to know what happens next!!
𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗶𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝗵𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻.
➛ 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐀𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐭 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
➛ 𝐃𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝟏𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐎𝐕 - 𝑨𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒏 & 𝑷𝒉𝒐𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒙
➛ College, Dark Sports Romance, Surprise Pregnancy, Hate-To-Love, Fake Dating, Bully, Angst
➛ 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 🌶
➛ 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫
➛ Series: 𝗛𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗲𝗻 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗘𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗲, book 5. Cannot be read as a standalone! Part of a duet!
➛ Recommended to read prologue novella 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 before reading 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗛𝗮𝘁𝗲
➛ Next book: 𝗖𝗿𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲. Second book of the duet, releases September 2023
➛ 𝐊𝐔 ✅
September 22, 2023
THAT LAST CHAPTER?? WHAT? WHY? I can’t even handle it! 😭😭 I’m so stressed right now and I need the next book, STAT! As I’ve said in my previous reviews on the other books in this series, THEY ARE MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!! Every single book has been phenomenal and I’m obsessed with them. The emotions I feel with these books are out of this world. One minute I’m laughing and in love then the next I’m angry and crying. The author is easily one of my favorites because of this series! If you want a great story, with twists and turns, drama, jealousy, angst…read this! You’ll fall in love too!!!
March 20, 2024
This series of short books is really addicting. But … there are some things that you definitely need to suspend belief for.
There is absolutely no way that the boys wouldn’t have been caught for their little fight club shenanigans 🙄 … word of mouth, someone having recorded it. Someone would gave spilled the tea.
The rest of the happenings are pretty predictable too.
Either way, I can’t stop reading these.
Enough said. Onto book 6 🙌
There is absolutely no way that the boys wouldn’t have been caught for their little fight club shenanigans 🙄 … word of mouth, someone having recorded it. Someone would gave spilled the tea.
The rest of the happenings are pretty predictable too.
Either way, I can’t stop reading these.
Enough said. Onto book 6 🙌
September 21, 2023
This book as just as great as the others. You do need to read the prequel first. Aspen finds out that she is pregnant after one night stand with Phoenix. He wants to do right by her but he also loves playing football. There is a lot of back and forth but they are also growing. I cannot wait to read the next book.
August 31, 2023
Cruel Hate is Book Five in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. This book continues with Aspen and Phoenix’s story from Cruel Start, so I highly recommend reading it first. Honestly, this is an absolutely amazing series that should be read from the first book to understand who each character is, as well as their backstory.
In Cruel Start Aspen decided a good way to test her freedom would be to have a one-night stand with a handsome stranger at a party. Then she learned a short time later that she was pregnant and had to tell this sexy stranger, Phoenix, that he was about to be a baby daddy. Now, having learned of her pregnancy Phoenix is asked by Aspen to go along with her as her fake boyfriend when she reveals the news of her pregnancy to her parents. Neither of them want a real relationship so the idea of a fake relationship seems like it could be a good idea. Phoenix wants to focus on his football career and sees this as a good way to keep the punt bunnies from pursuing him. Aspen hopes that Phoenix will offer her support and step up to help her co-parent the baby. Neither of them are prepared for the complications that arise from their fake relationship.
Aspen and Phoenix are both struggling with school and personal issues which neither wants to bother the other with and this complicates matters farther. Both come from dysfunctional families, have just started college, and both have big dreams for their future. Phoenix wants to pursue his career in football and get drafted into the NHL. Aspens wants to pursue her art and open a fantasy board shop with her sister where boards with her design would be sold. Aspen has no support from her parents and does not feel that Phoenix is stepping up to the plate as he should. She realizes that it is up to her to raise the baby on her own and support herself. Phoenix is having personal issues with his brother and wants to be there for Aspen but somehow keeps messing up. Then there is the undeniable attraction and chemistry between them that only complicates things farther.
This has been an outstanding series from the first book and each book just gets better than the last. The storylines are intense, complicated, and take twists and turns that keep you hooked until the end. The characters are complex, engaging and throughout the book we see them grow. Initially Aspen seems like a girl just testing the bounds of her newfound freedom by losing her virginity. We quickly learn that Aspen is smart, strong, and able to take care of herself. She refuses to raise her child in the type of dysfunctional family that she grew up in. The constant bickering between her parents created a toxic environment and she vows that her baby will not grow up in that kind of environment. Phoenix comes across initially as a jock who uses his good looks and charm to woo women. We quickly learn that deep down he is sensitive, kind, and compassionate. He wants to help but has a lot going on and tends to get preoccupied. Phoenix wants to help raise his baby and does not want to be anything like his own deadbeat dad. This book had angst, drama, family dynamics, unexpected romance, and leaves on an intense cliffhanger. I cannot wait for the next book!
In Cruel Start Aspen decided a good way to test her freedom would be to have a one-night stand with a handsome stranger at a party. Then she learned a short time later that she was pregnant and had to tell this sexy stranger, Phoenix, that he was about to be a baby daddy. Now, having learned of her pregnancy Phoenix is asked by Aspen to go along with her as her fake boyfriend when she reveals the news of her pregnancy to her parents. Neither of them want a real relationship so the idea of a fake relationship seems like it could be a good idea. Phoenix wants to focus on his football career and sees this as a good way to keep the punt bunnies from pursuing him. Aspen hopes that Phoenix will offer her support and step up to help her co-parent the baby. Neither of them are prepared for the complications that arise from their fake relationship.
Aspen and Phoenix are both struggling with school and personal issues which neither wants to bother the other with and this complicates matters farther. Both come from dysfunctional families, have just started college, and both have big dreams for their future. Phoenix wants to pursue his career in football and get drafted into the NHL. Aspens wants to pursue her art and open a fantasy board shop with her sister where boards with her design would be sold. Aspen has no support from her parents and does not feel that Phoenix is stepping up to the plate as he should. She realizes that it is up to her to raise the baby on her own and support herself. Phoenix is having personal issues with his brother and wants to be there for Aspen but somehow keeps messing up. Then there is the undeniable attraction and chemistry between them that only complicates things farther.
This has been an outstanding series from the first book and each book just gets better than the last. The storylines are intense, complicated, and take twists and turns that keep you hooked until the end. The characters are complex, engaging and throughout the book we see them grow. Initially Aspen seems like a girl just testing the bounds of her newfound freedom by losing her virginity. We quickly learn that Aspen is smart, strong, and able to take care of herself. She refuses to raise her child in the type of dysfunctional family that she grew up in. The constant bickering between her parents created a toxic environment and she vows that her baby will not grow up in that kind of environment. Phoenix comes across initially as a jock who uses his good looks and charm to woo women. We quickly learn that deep down he is sensitive, kind, and compassionate. He wants to help but has a lot going on and tends to get preoccupied. Phoenix wants to help raise his baby and does not want to be anything like his own deadbeat dad. This book had angst, drama, family dynamics, unexpected romance, and leaves on an intense cliffhanger. I cannot wait for the next book!
September 1, 2023
Fear. Betrayal. Once more, the beyond talented Isla Vaughn pulls you deeper and deeper into the world of the Hidden Valley Elite. Must read the prequel Cruel Start first as it starts the story that continues in this book, starting a few months after the events of that book. Dual perspectives of Phoenix and Aspen.
Phoenix has had a long summer of healing after his hand was shredded by the glass, but the time has come he can finally start practicing again and playing soon. Aspen has lived in terror all summer; one perfect spur of the moment has changed her world and delayed her dreams. Worse is that she must inform her parents, but her parents’ history tells her she needs Phoenix at her side. Thanks to a delusional punt bunny Phoenix is on board with her proposition to “fake” date, but he goes a step further not just for her parents but the entire school to keep the punt bunnies off him so he can focus on school and football. Perfect plan in theory, as they both react badly to obstacles placed before them and both show a flare of jealousy. Both wanting more but because of their painful upbringings fear what could happen if they gave in to that level of emotions. On top of everything the Bennett twins are at odds and not talking. Shane is still angry about what Phoenix said to Tracey in Cruel Start and while they aren’t together anymore Shane struggles to let go of that degree of lies that lost him “the most important thing in his life”. Due to their rift Shane refuses to be around Phoenix much less help him with his schoolwork, flunking he has no choice but to ask for help. Grandad has built a legacy in his company that he plans to leave for Phoenix and Shane one day, but tells Phoenix wait for the NFL finish college first its always good to have a backup plan. He’s also proud of both boys for not using the family name to get things handed to them from the school reputation Grandad held while at Thane. Just when things started to seem less doom Shane pulled a punch no one could have predicted causing things to spiral faster than the perfect spiral.
Can Phoenix and Aspen find common ground, for them and their baby? What does Shane do that tailspin everything? How will mom and Grandad react to the news about Aspen and the baby? The elite might have run the high school, but they are just more students at Thane and while they are recognized they have some normal from the chaos that followed them in high school. Now life is chaos, too many jabs at once to catch his breath Phoenix often feels like he’s got a lose/lose situation before him. Never able to say the right thing to Aspen and never able to figure out what’s going on with Shane. The author once again leaves you holding your breath as you try and read faster and faster to see what will happen next until you’re left breathless and lost when you reach “The End”. I am counting the days until the finale of Phoenix and Aspen’s story comes out, Cruel Love, September 28th, 2023.
Phoenix has had a long summer of healing after his hand was shredded by the glass, but the time has come he can finally start practicing again and playing soon. Aspen has lived in terror all summer; one perfect spur of the moment has changed her world and delayed her dreams. Worse is that she must inform her parents, but her parents’ history tells her she needs Phoenix at her side. Thanks to a delusional punt bunny Phoenix is on board with her proposition to “fake” date, but he goes a step further not just for her parents but the entire school to keep the punt bunnies off him so he can focus on school and football. Perfect plan in theory, as they both react badly to obstacles placed before them and both show a flare of jealousy. Both wanting more but because of their painful upbringings fear what could happen if they gave in to that level of emotions. On top of everything the Bennett twins are at odds and not talking. Shane is still angry about what Phoenix said to Tracey in Cruel Start and while they aren’t together anymore Shane struggles to let go of that degree of lies that lost him “the most important thing in his life”. Due to their rift Shane refuses to be around Phoenix much less help him with his schoolwork, flunking he has no choice but to ask for help. Grandad has built a legacy in his company that he plans to leave for Phoenix and Shane one day, but tells Phoenix wait for the NFL finish college first its always good to have a backup plan. He’s also proud of both boys for not using the family name to get things handed to them from the school reputation Grandad held while at Thane. Just when things started to seem less doom Shane pulled a punch no one could have predicted causing things to spiral faster than the perfect spiral.
Can Phoenix and Aspen find common ground, for them and their baby? What does Shane do that tailspin everything? How will mom and Grandad react to the news about Aspen and the baby? The elite might have run the high school, but they are just more students at Thane and while they are recognized they have some normal from the chaos that followed them in high school. Now life is chaos, too many jabs at once to catch his breath Phoenix often feels like he’s got a lose/lose situation before him. Never able to say the right thing to Aspen and never able to figure out what’s going on with Shane. The author once again leaves you holding your breath as you try and read faster and faster to see what will happen next until you’re left breathless and lost when you reach “The End”. I am counting the days until the finale of Phoenix and Aspen’s story comes out, Cruel Love, September 28th, 2023.
August 15, 2023
I recommend reading the prequel before jumping into this book. Cruel Hate picks up right after Aspen has revealed her pregnancy to Phoenix and is now asking for help, basically a fake relationship so she can help ease the blow in telling her own family. At first stunned, Phoenix, quickly sees the advantage in this, no longer wanting to be chased by the punt bunnies, this year he's focused on football and school work and he likes the idea of a fake girlfriend keeping all the distractions away. While the abstract of this idea is great when they discuss it, the reality brings a host of other issues that neither of them saw coming.
Aspen Reid and Phoenix Bennett ,great names BTW, are both are drowning in their own problems. Neither are sharing their burdens with the other, continually thinking the other has too much to deal with and yet both of them are barely keeping their nose above water in the process while dealing with their individual problems. Their story is heartfelt, with some very real world problems and I loved getting to know more about both Aspen and Phoenix.
Aspen keeps hoping that Phoenix will show up to support their baby. She doesn't want a relationship in the love aspect of the term, but co-parenting would be nice when the baby is born. Phoenix, however, just continually drops the ball, which frustrates her over and over.
Yeah, Phoenix is a little preoccupied, but that doesn't mean he doesn't want to support his future child. The last thing he wants to do is turn out like his deadbeat father, so yes, Phoenix feels the pressure and hates letting Aspen down, which adds more emotional turmoil in his life. I really do feel bad for the guy, his life is not all sunshine and roses, which is what Aspen sometimes believes.
Phoenix can't stop thinking about Aspen...All. The. Time. For a man who liked the variety, this has never happened to him before. While both of them don't want a real relationship, neither of them can seem to say the right thing to even be near each other for a few minutes when discussing much of anything. These two end up in a round-a-bout pickle multiple times that was very intense to read.
This book felt like a quick read as I turned the pages hoping for this couple to figure things out. Weirdly enough, given the fact that they already have a baby on the way, this book is a slow burn because of how they now feel about each other. It also ends on a whopping huge cliffhanger and I need answers to so many questions. I can't wait for more in the next book, Cruel Love.
Aspen Reid and Phoenix Bennett ,great names BTW, are both are drowning in their own problems. Neither are sharing their burdens with the other, continually thinking the other has too much to deal with and yet both of them are barely keeping their nose above water in the process while dealing with their individual problems. Their story is heartfelt, with some very real world problems and I loved getting to know more about both Aspen and Phoenix.
Aspen keeps hoping that Phoenix will show up to support their baby. She doesn't want a relationship in the love aspect of the term, but co-parenting would be nice when the baby is born. Phoenix, however, just continually drops the ball, which frustrates her over and over.
Yeah, Phoenix is a little preoccupied, but that doesn't mean he doesn't want to support his future child. The last thing he wants to do is turn out like his deadbeat father, so yes, Phoenix feels the pressure and hates letting Aspen down, which adds more emotional turmoil in his life. I really do feel bad for the guy, his life is not all sunshine and roses, which is what Aspen sometimes believes.
Phoenix can't stop thinking about Aspen...All. The. Time. For a man who liked the variety, this has never happened to him before. While both of them don't want a real relationship, neither of them can seem to say the right thing to even be near each other for a few minutes when discussing much of anything. These two end up in a round-a-bout pickle multiple times that was very intense to read.
This book felt like a quick read as I turned the pages hoping for this couple to figure things out. Weirdly enough, given the fact that they already have a baby on the way, this book is a slow burn because of how they now feel about each other. It also ends on a whopping huge cliffhanger and I need answers to so many questions. I can't wait for more in the next book, Cruel Love.
September 3, 2023
Aspen asks Phoenix to be her fake boyfriend.
He refuses because he doesn't do relationships.
When they told Aspen's parents that she was pregnant, her parents began bickering with each other. Phoenix and Aspen leave and her parents don't notice.
Every time they meet up, Aspen and Phoenix don’t get along and end up fighting.
Aspen kept having dreams of Phoenix and a baby girl. She was also married to Phoenix in her dreams. Phoenix's grandfather was Mark Reid's employer. He was Aspen's father, and it was his insurance that was helping with the doctor's appointments. When his grandfather tells him to throw his next fight or he will fire Mark Reid, Phoenix feels conflicted. Phoenix's grades had fallen since Shane disappeared and refused to help him. Phoenix had dyslexia and needed a tutor. Aspen took over his tutoring after she found Noel reading his assignment to him. She read the assignment out loud and made recordings for him to use when they couldn't align their schedules. Aspen felt alone during the pregnancy because her parents only told her about abortion clinics and didn't seem to care otherwise. Aspen was afraid after her last doctor's appointment. Something was possibly wrong with the baby. She told Phoenix, and he said he would be there at the appointment. The doctor performed the amniocentesis, 2 weeks of waiting for the results was stressful on both sides. Where was Shane? What would the test results reveal? Would Phoenix really throw his fight?
Isla Vaughn continues to build suspense in the fifth book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. Cruel Hate takes on a nefarious feeling when Phoenix's grandfather becomes involved. Shane's behavior was off so much that even Damon and Cole had noticed. Aspen was worried about how long she could continue attending school when she had the baby. She had already set in her mind that Phoenix wasn't reliable and that she was on her own.The end of this book left me stunned and eager to read the sequel. The story deserves a 5-star rating. The intense drama will appeal to readers who like romantic stories with a plot beyond just steamy scenes.
He refuses because he doesn't do relationships.
When they told Aspen's parents that she was pregnant, her parents began bickering with each other. Phoenix and Aspen leave and her parents don't notice.
Every time they meet up, Aspen and Phoenix don’t get along and end up fighting.
Aspen kept having dreams of Phoenix and a baby girl. She was also married to Phoenix in her dreams. Phoenix's grandfather was Mark Reid's employer. He was Aspen's father, and it was his insurance that was helping with the doctor's appointments. When his grandfather tells him to throw his next fight or he will fire Mark Reid, Phoenix feels conflicted. Phoenix's grades had fallen since Shane disappeared and refused to help him. Phoenix had dyslexia and needed a tutor. Aspen took over his tutoring after she found Noel reading his assignment to him. She read the assignment out loud and made recordings for him to use when they couldn't align their schedules. Aspen felt alone during the pregnancy because her parents only told her about abortion clinics and didn't seem to care otherwise. Aspen was afraid after her last doctor's appointment. Something was possibly wrong with the baby. She told Phoenix, and he said he would be there at the appointment. The doctor performed the amniocentesis, 2 weeks of waiting for the results was stressful on both sides. Where was Shane? What would the test results reveal? Would Phoenix really throw his fight?
Isla Vaughn continues to build suspense in the fifth book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. Cruel Hate takes on a nefarious feeling when Phoenix's grandfather becomes involved. Shane's behavior was off so much that even Damon and Cole had noticed. Aspen was worried about how long she could continue attending school when she had the baby. She had already set in her mind that Phoenix wasn't reliable and that she was on her own.The end of this book left me stunned and eager to read the sequel. The story deserves a 5-star rating. The intense drama will appeal to readers who like romantic stories with a plot beyond just steamy scenes.
September 3, 2023
Isla has done it again! This series is SO GOOD!!! I haven't read them all (YET!), but all the ones I have read, have hooked and reeled me in so quick! You don't HAVE to read the others in the set to read this one, BUT you WILL want to! Trust me!!!! There is also a prequel to this book that gives you a small intro into Phoenix and Aspen's story. Again you don't HAVE to read it, but again I would totally recommend it!! You will not be sorry buy reading them all. You will thank me (or better yet the author) when you do! This book is also NOT a stand alone. There is another book to their story after this one (book 6). Okay so to the book!.... Phoenix is a football QB superstar. Just starting in college football with his brother (Shane) and his cousins (Cole and Damon), who he played with and dominated in high school with (You can read more about them in the other books!), his goals are clear. NFL here he comes! Until one night over the summer, throws his plans for a huge loop. Aspen has goals of her own. Surf board shop with her sister. She designs the boards and her sister designs surf clothing. Neither one want or need a relationship. Having bad role models in the love department growing up, they both don't want anything to do with relationships. They both have to stay focused on school and their dreams. Well Miss Aspen decides to give up her v-card that summer before college and to both their surprise she gets pregnant!! Yep total wrench in both their plans. Now what can they do? He plans a fake relationship to keep the other girls off his back and she agrees to keep her parents off hers'. What could go wrong there, right? Well minus the fact that they can't be in the same room with each other without fighting!! This book ends on a cliffhanger that will have you RUNNING to get the next book in the series. Trust me when I say, this series is that good!! I can't wait to read the rest!! With a fake relationship, sports, a pregnancy, and plenty of back and forth banter you will love this enemies to lovers bully romance. I won't give away anything, but let me tell you the ending had me on my toes!! Grab this one NOW!!
September 16, 2023
After reading Cruel Start, I couldn’t wait to read this one! This book is quite different. In the prior book, it happens somewhat at breakneck speed. This one is more of a slow burn between the two of them. The only spicy things that happen are the arguments and disagreements they have. However, that makes sense as the two of them are dealing with an unplanned pregnancy as well as their own individual issues. Phoenix is not sure what is going on with his twin, Shane. He just knows that there is a distance between them that neither has experienced before. Is it Shane’s ex or something else? Not to mention that he is failing his classes and is in danger of losing his scholarship and his dream of playing football. In addition, his grandfather is acting strange as well. Aspen is dealing with her parents’ disapproval of her pregnancy and their pending divorce. In my opinion, there is more angst and back and forth between this couple than in any of the other books. Again, that would be realistic with this couple. They are facing some really harsh realities, and that makes this book really different than the previous books in addition to this book taking place in college and not high school.
Because the book is different doesn’t make it any less enjoyable than the previous ones. I actually liked that it focused more on them as individuals rather than as a couple. I got more insight into this couple as individuals rather than as a couple. I also discovered more about their parents and how that impacted their present and their future.
I highly recommend reading the prequel before this book as it gives you a good background of Phoenix and Aspen and how they find themselves in their current situation. The icing on the cake was the ending…OMG, what a freaking cliffhanger. Talk about a nailbiter….can’t wait to see what happens next for this couple!!!
Because the book is different doesn’t make it any less enjoyable than the previous ones. I actually liked that it focused more on them as individuals rather than as a couple. I got more insight into this couple as individuals rather than as a couple. I also discovered more about their parents and how that impacted their present and their future.
I highly recommend reading the prequel before this book as it gives you a good background of Phoenix and Aspen and how they find themselves in their current situation. The icing on the cake was the ending…OMG, what a freaking cliffhanger. Talk about a nailbiter….can’t wait to see what happens next for this couple!!!
September 1, 2023
These two. They just can’t seem to find a way to communicate without exploding. The only time they seem to manage a decent conversation is the night Phoenix gets drunk, the only problem is he doesn’t remember what he said the next day. Everything these two try to do together that ends up in disaster really shows that they are the product of their parents' failed relationships, each trying not to get hurt.
As Phoenix and Aspen navigate college and life on their own, they constantly run into hurdles and brickwalls. Aspen has to find a way to tell her parents that she is pregnant. Phoenix discovers that college is more than he expected, especially when at odds with Shane. Shane has always been there to help cover up his reading difficulties. Now with Shane and Phoenix orbiting in separate spheres, Phoenix finds himself struggling to keep his head above water.
Is this when I get to talk about what a despicable weasel Grandad is? Cuz I am so down to have that conversation. I have a nagging feeling in the back of my brain that says he only gets worse and causes more harm later. I do completely heart hands the way the rest of the tribe has adopted Aspen and supports her. Let’s not forget our new friend Max!! Okay so he was a jerk that one time, but he apologized and is nothing but loving and caring and a great big teddy bear!!
OMG! That last chapter. So much….too much!!! I can’t stop devouring these books as each is released. This is, by far, one of the most superior series that I have read. The way the author handles and develops each character is so loving. Almost like writing characters based on your kids or your best friends. So abso-freaking-lutely amazing. Counting the days until the next one!
As Phoenix and Aspen navigate college and life on their own, they constantly run into hurdles and brickwalls. Aspen has to find a way to tell her parents that she is pregnant. Phoenix discovers that college is more than he expected, especially when at odds with Shane. Shane has always been there to help cover up his reading difficulties. Now with Shane and Phoenix orbiting in separate spheres, Phoenix finds himself struggling to keep his head above water.
Is this when I get to talk about what a despicable weasel Grandad is? Cuz I am so down to have that conversation. I have a nagging feeling in the back of my brain that says he only gets worse and causes more harm later. I do completely heart hands the way the rest of the tribe has adopted Aspen and supports her. Let’s not forget our new friend Max!! Okay so he was a jerk that one time, but he apologized and is nothing but loving and caring and a great big teddy bear!!
OMG! That last chapter. So much….too much!!! I can’t stop devouring these books as each is released. This is, by far, one of the most superior series that I have read. The way the author handles and develops each character is so loving. Almost like writing characters based on your kids or your best friends. So abso-freaking-lutely amazing. Counting the days until the next one!
September 3, 2023
This is Book 1 of Phoenix's Duet (there is a prequel Cruel Start). Even though this is the beginning of the duet, it is the 5th book in the series. It is not necessary to read the previous books, but I highly suggest you do as they are interconnected and will give you 10x the reading experience and understanding of Phoenix.
Readers hold on to your hearts and stomachs because you are about to go on an insanely intoxicating rollarcoaster. Phoenix and Aspen's relationship is part toxic part pure infatuation. They both desperately do not want to have the lives of their parents, but it seems that at every turn, Phoenix and Aspen are at each other throats.
It was never in either of their cards to have a baby, and definitely not a baby with someone so infuriating or distracting to their plans of a future. They also both can't deny that they are extremely attracted to the other. As well as an all-consuming passion. They consume eachothers every thoughts. But is that enough to let their guard down around one another?
Everyone seems to notice the way they feel about each other, except the other person. They both keep lying to themselves that they, in fact, want nothing to do with the other, but yet can't keep them off their mind. Their entire relationship or should I say "fake relationship" is very Hot & Cold.
There are so many things that the other does not know about them. They quickly are learning there is more to their character than what they originally judged them as. But so there are so many secrets, hidden daggers in their families, and so so much trauma. Will they ever make it past any of that? Are they doomed to recreate their parents' mistakes? Or maybe even worse ones?
The ending will leave you gasping for air at the intensity of the cliffhanger. I can not wait for book 2 of the duet to see where their lives and relationship are headed!!!!
Readers hold on to your hearts and stomachs because you are about to go on an insanely intoxicating rollarcoaster. Phoenix and Aspen's relationship is part toxic part pure infatuation. They both desperately do not want to have the lives of their parents, but it seems that at every turn, Phoenix and Aspen are at each other throats.
It was never in either of their cards to have a baby, and definitely not a baby with someone so infuriating or distracting to their plans of a future. They also both can't deny that they are extremely attracted to the other. As well as an all-consuming passion. They consume eachothers every thoughts. But is that enough to let their guard down around one another?
Everyone seems to notice the way they feel about each other, except the other person. They both keep lying to themselves that they, in fact, want nothing to do with the other, but yet can't keep them off their mind. Their entire relationship or should I say "fake relationship" is very Hot & Cold.
There are so many things that the other does not know about them. They quickly are learning there is more to their character than what they originally judged them as. But so there are so many secrets, hidden daggers in their families, and so so much trauma. Will they ever make it past any of that? Are they doomed to recreate their parents' mistakes? Or maybe even worse ones?
The ending will leave you gasping for air at the intensity of the cliffhanger. I can not wait for book 2 of the duet to see where their lives and relationship are headed!!!!
September 2, 2023
I cannot stress enough how good this entire series is. That being said every single book gets better and better.
This particular book is about Aspen Reid and Phoenix Bennett. Phoenix was one of my favorite character throughout the books. He always seems calm, cool and quiet. This book is about how Phoenix and Aspen hooked up one night and now she is pregnant and they both go to the same college so see eachother regularly. They are “fake dating” the mean girls are all over Aspen every chance they get. Luckily she has a few girls in her corner.
These two characters are both such strong lovable characters but they can’t get on the same page. Phoenix grew up without a dad and he refuses to let his child grow up the same way. He’s always giving Aspen money for things, but she doesn’t really want that. I mean, yea it helps but she just wants him there. To ask how she’s feeling, show up and ask how doctor appointments went.
Phoenix grew up having a very strong relationship with his grandfather. His grandfather snaps his fingers and they jump. When his grandfathers asks him to do one thing, he doesn’t know if he will be able to however, he HAS TO!!! There will be consequences if he doesn’t follow through with grandfathers orders.
The way this book ended was crazy. I was like NO WAY!!! I usually hate books with cliffhangers but Jeez, this author just sucks her readers in with every word she writes. Another great book to add to this amazing series and cannot wait to see what happens on the next few books!
Grab your copies today. Seriously what are you waiting for. You will thank me!!
Books should be read on order to avoid spoilers.
This particular book is about Aspen Reid and Phoenix Bennett. Phoenix was one of my favorite character throughout the books. He always seems calm, cool and quiet. This book is about how Phoenix and Aspen hooked up one night and now she is pregnant and they both go to the same college so see eachother regularly. They are “fake dating” the mean girls are all over Aspen every chance they get. Luckily she has a few girls in her corner.
These two characters are both such strong lovable characters but they can’t get on the same page. Phoenix grew up without a dad and he refuses to let his child grow up the same way. He’s always giving Aspen money for things, but she doesn’t really want that. I mean, yea it helps but she just wants him there. To ask how she’s feeling, show up and ask how doctor appointments went.
Phoenix grew up having a very strong relationship with his grandfather. His grandfather snaps his fingers and they jump. When his grandfathers asks him to do one thing, he doesn’t know if he will be able to however, he HAS TO!!! There will be consequences if he doesn’t follow through with grandfathers orders.
The way this book ended was crazy. I was like NO WAY!!! I usually hate books with cliffhangers but Jeez, this author just sucks her readers in with every word she writes. Another great book to add to this amazing series and cannot wait to see what happens on the next few books!
Grab your copies today. Seriously what are you waiting for. You will thank me!!
Books should be read on order to avoid spoilers.
September 2, 2023
ARC Review of Cruel Hate by Isla Vaugh
* * * * *
Another duet part of a fantastic series where our boys find love and face some dangerous craziness! Not to forget the epic cliffhanger!
Pheonix's story takes a massive life right at the beginning as all his plans meet a twist when the hot surfer girl he spent a lust-filled night with rocks up knocked up!
Aspen and Pheonix agree to be calm, chill and be totally fake in love for the sake of trying to keep clingy girls away and neutralize the parents. Sounds like a simple plan? No. Feelings can evolve from that one night and the messiness after. As they prepare their lives and plans with the new addition, neither of them expected to start wanting each other...or at least, get super jealous when someone else takes interest.
However, not everyone is as supportive as they should be. Sometimes the real trouble is closer to home.
Aspen and Pheonix's relationship is definetly complicated. There were not real sparks in the beginning besides the mention of that one night they made the baby, but other than that, it is all somewhat logical thinking.
Oh if only they knew how much they would really start to one another.
Pheonix's relationship with his own brother is on the rocks, and his grandfather is starting to dig deeper into his life. Aspen's family situation is a mess! Her parents are both bombs constantly going off at one another, a sister she adores and has escaped the madness, and now she was dealing with the future of being mother with all this. Not to forget, the baby daddy is very demanding.
With that cliffhanger...you would want to know what the hell happened next!
* * * * *
Another duet part of a fantastic series where our boys find love and face some dangerous craziness! Not to forget the epic cliffhanger!
Pheonix's story takes a massive life right at the beginning as all his plans meet a twist when the hot surfer girl he spent a lust-filled night with rocks up knocked up!
Aspen and Pheonix agree to be calm, chill and be totally fake in love for the sake of trying to keep clingy girls away and neutralize the parents. Sounds like a simple plan? No. Feelings can evolve from that one night and the messiness after. As they prepare their lives and plans with the new addition, neither of them expected to start wanting each other...or at least, get super jealous when someone else takes interest.
However, not everyone is as supportive as they should be. Sometimes the real trouble is closer to home.
Aspen and Pheonix's relationship is definetly complicated. There were not real sparks in the beginning besides the mention of that one night they made the baby, but other than that, it is all somewhat logical thinking.
Oh if only they knew how much they would really start to one another.
Pheonix's relationship with his own brother is on the rocks, and his grandfather is starting to dig deeper into his life. Aspen's family situation is a mess! Her parents are both bombs constantly going off at one another, a sister she adores and has escaped the madness, and now she was dealing with the future of being mother with all this. Not to forget, the baby daddy is very demanding.
With that cliffhanger...you would want to know what the hell happened next!
September 1, 2023
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I cannot say enough about this author and the talent she brings to her writing. I love this series with my every being, I highly recommend reading this series in order as characters are intertwined in each book and definitely read the prequel as well to Phoenix and Aspen's beginning.
Phoenix and Aspen give me the push and pull, hot and cold, off and on, spark and sizzle, yes and no... mixed in with drama, fear, jealousy, secrets, chemistry that they are both denying....it is hard to hide how much I loved this story from beginning to end.
Unplanned surprise pregnancy can put a different perspective on what you believe your life should turn out...this happens to Phoenix and Aspen. Phoenix is focused and his mindset is completely on being successful playing football in college that he makes it to the NFL. Aspen has dreams too, artist at heart, opening up a business with her sister. Trying to figure out the next steps, Aspen and Phoenix believe that the only thing they have in common is their baby on the way...but they have more in common than they realize. Between all the family drama they each have they also have to deal with jealousy and bullying toward Aspen. Will Phoenix be there for Aspen when she needs him the most or if any future they can possibly even have...especially when Phoenix's grandad has plans for him as well?
I am already counting down the days when Book #6 comes out....I am already anxiously awaiting with anticipation after this story ended.....
I cannot say enough about this author and the talent she brings to her writing. I love this series with my every being, I highly recommend reading this series in order as characters are intertwined in each book and definitely read the prequel as well to Phoenix and Aspen's beginning.
Phoenix and Aspen give me the push and pull, hot and cold, off and on, spark and sizzle, yes and no... mixed in with drama, fear, jealousy, secrets, chemistry that they are both denying....it is hard to hide how much I loved this story from beginning to end.
Unplanned surprise pregnancy can put a different perspective on what you believe your life should turn out...this happens to Phoenix and Aspen. Phoenix is focused and his mindset is completely on being successful playing football in college that he makes it to the NFL. Aspen has dreams too, artist at heart, opening up a business with her sister. Trying to figure out the next steps, Aspen and Phoenix believe that the only thing they have in common is their baby on the way...but they have more in common than they realize. Between all the family drama they each have they also have to deal with jealousy and bullying toward Aspen. Will Phoenix be there for Aspen when she needs him the most or if any future they can possibly even have...especially when Phoenix's grandad has plans for him as well?
I am already counting down the days when Book #6 comes out....I am already anxiously awaiting with anticipation after this story ended.....
August 31, 2023
This is the 5th book in the series and when I say these books just keep getting better and better. I truly mean that. Let's start with the series, you will want to read these books in order. It will help you understand the characters and the situations that are presented in each book. Now, when I say that these books just keep getting better and better with everyone, I truly mean that. The complex characters and plot twists that are presented seem to be more and more captivating with each book. In this book, the plot has some twists and turns that I didn't see coming and it also has deep character growth. The angst that is expressed in this book is not for the weak of heart. The situationship that is being had between he main characters is something that can be relatable to some people. The growth and development of the situation and the characters will have you turning pages almost as fast as you can because it is that good. This book was a super quick read and kept me glued to the pages. You won't want to stop reading to do anything else until you are finished with this book. Speaking of finishing this book, there is a cliffhanger but I wasn't mad at it. Yes, I normally hate cliffhangers but this one I feel really made the whole book. You will have emotions that you don't know what to do with. This book will sit with you for a few days after you finish reading it and it will leave you craving more because let's be real, you really really want to know what happens.
August 30, 2023
Aspen Reid thought one night with a handsome and alluring stranger seemed like the perfect way to start off her new found freedom... but two pink lines a few weeks later told her otherwise. Now she must break the news the father of the baby and then her parents, which is something she is not looking forward to at all.
Telling the king of the campus that he is about to be a dad goes off as well as she thought it would, she had hoped he'd be more supportive, but his fatherly instincts don't seem to be kicking in yet. Then he surprises her and offers up an idea... they pretend to be together to put on a good show for her parents and the punt bunnies in hopes of getting a little peace for both of them. Which works for a while... then the fake part of things hits a little snag.
Cruel Hate picks up right where Cruel Start left off and it didn't take long for me to fall for these characters all over again, they're just so mesmerizing! Their story has done a number on my heart already and isn't quite over yet. I cannot wait to see what the next installment holds for these two... hopefully a well deserved happily ever after! Highly recommend you take a chance on this series, it is hands down the best dark romance series I've read this year!!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 1, 2023
I looooove this series so much! And this author is one of my absolute favorites! Cruel Hate is book 5 and the beginning of the 3rd duet set in the series. All the characters are now in college, though that doesn’t really change the dynamic of these stories. The characters are still the same and they still play football. It’s just which cousin/sibling will be the next to fall?
This just the beginning of the next 4 books featuring the Bennett twins.
Is history repeating itself?
For Aspen, possibly but she’s going to make sure she does things right.
For Phoenix, he refuses to become the man he loathes.
Aspen & Phoenix end up on a roller coaster that is heading fast into parenthood. When both of them are just freshmen in college. They love to hate one another but there's so much chemistry as well.
Will they see past it?
One thing Phoenix is sure of, despite his studies and football he’s going to be there for his child. And be the father his dad never was despite how he feels towards Aspen at times.
I love these two! Not my favorite pairing of the cousins, but just their story. I’m sucked in and I can’t wait till the 2nd half of their duet comes out.
If you haven’t read any of this series you should, and even if you stumbled across this book you don’t necessarily need to read books 1-4 just 4.5 before this one. But like I said I recommend reading them all!
This just the beginning of the next 4 books featuring the Bennett twins.
Is history repeating itself?
For Aspen, possibly but she’s going to make sure she does things right.
For Phoenix, he refuses to become the man he loathes.
Aspen & Phoenix end up on a roller coaster that is heading fast into parenthood. When both of them are just freshmen in college. They love to hate one another but there's so much chemistry as well.
Will they see past it?
One thing Phoenix is sure of, despite his studies and football he’s going to be there for his child. And be the father his dad never was despite how he feels towards Aspen at times.
I love these two! Not my favorite pairing of the cousins, but just their story. I’m sucked in and I can’t wait till the 2nd half of their duet comes out.
If you haven’t read any of this series you should, and even if you stumbled across this book you don’t necessarily need to read books 1-4 just 4.5 before this one. But like I said I recommend reading them all!
August 25, 2023
Ok I have been waiting on Cruel Hate since I read the novella Cruel Start. I would recommend reading this first just to give you a little bit more back story to Aspen and Phoenix. Cruel Hate picks right up where Cruel Start left off.
Ok on with my review...... Aspen is a strong heroine who can take care of herself and has for awhile. Her family life is in shambles and knows that she will not raise her child the way she has been raised with resentment and being used. She is exactly the type of person Phoenix needs in his in life. She is strong, she refuses to be his personal doormat, and her tenacity rivals his!
Phoenix what can I say about him. We get to see the many many layers that are him. He has so much inner turmoil that you really want to wrap him up and let him know everything will be ok. We get a deeper look into just who he is and the inner demons/fight he has going on.
With all of this being said we get to watch these two pussy-foot around each other. What starts out as something fake turns into something real.
You need to prepare yourself for the angsty ride you are about to embark. Oh and the ending... Well lets just say THANK GOD there is not a long wait for the next book!
Ok on with my review...... Aspen is a strong heroine who can take care of herself and has for awhile. Her family life is in shambles and knows that she will not raise her child the way she has been raised with resentment and being used. She is exactly the type of person Phoenix needs in his in life. She is strong, she refuses to be his personal doormat, and her tenacity rivals his!
Phoenix what can I say about him. We get to see the many many layers that are him. He has so much inner turmoil that you really want to wrap him up and let him know everything will be ok. We get a deeper look into just who he is and the inner demons/fight he has going on.
With all of this being said we get to watch these two pussy-foot around each other. What starts out as something fake turns into something real.
You need to prepare yourself for the angsty ride you are about to embark. Oh and the ending... Well lets just say THANK GOD there is not a long wait for the next book!
August 30, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Aspen and Phoenix. He is the quarterback with a future in the NFL. She is the new girl and when they meet at a party things get a little wild and they both find themselves with a huge surprise on the way. However he doesn't do dating. She is in a mess and has to tell her parents about the surprise and comes up with the fake dating plan just until she tells her parents. He though agrees and then wants her to play along a lot longer so all the girls at school who are looking to score a NFL hopeful will leave him alone. I don't really want to go into the details of the story but I loved these characters and getting to see the ones from previous books. It took me a little bit but I loved Phoenix. He might be a guy that puts out into the world what he wants them to see, but deep down the guy has a heart and that heart belongs to Aspen. Aspen oh what a strong girl she is. She gives as good as she gets and takes no crap off of Phoenix. I almost had heart failure when this book ended and I can't wait to get the next on in my hands. I have a feeling it is going to be a super amazing ride.
This is the story of Aspen and Phoenix. He is the quarterback with a future in the NFL. She is the new girl and when they meet at a party things get a little wild and they both find themselves with a huge surprise on the way. However he doesn't do dating. She is in a mess and has to tell her parents about the surprise and comes up with the fake dating plan just until she tells her parents. He though agrees and then wants her to play along a lot longer so all the girls at school who are looking to score a NFL hopeful will leave him alone. I don't really want to go into the details of the story but I loved these characters and getting to see the ones from previous books. It took me a little bit but I loved Phoenix. He might be a guy that puts out into the world what he wants them to see, but deep down the guy has a heart and that heart belongs to Aspen. Aspen oh what a strong girl she is. She gives as good as she gets and takes no crap off of Phoenix. I almost had heart failure when this book ended and I can't wait to get the next on in my hands. I have a feeling it is going to be a super amazing ride.
August 31, 2023
Omg omg. This series is literally ripping my heart out and stealing my breath. This is the 5th book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series and you most definately need to read every book in order. Trust me you won't regret it.
Well where to start with this book. We are back with Aspen and Phoenix. Things for this couple was never going to be easy. When a one night stand turns into Aspen falling pregnant the couple have a lot of stuff to deal with. Add to that dysfunctional families on both sides, starting a new college, Phoenix's dreams of joining the NFL and Aspen's dreams and goals. Neither of them wanted to add a kid into the mix but that's what's going to happen.
The chemistry and sexual attraction between them is off the charts however Phoenix is hiding secrets which means that the sexual chemistry turns into rage and anger towards each other. How are they going to cope raising a child when everytime they are together they argue and fight.
There is no denying the connection and attraction they feel for each other if only they would stop being so stubborn and just admit it.
This story is full of drama and angst and conflict and OMG the cliff hanger at the end. I literally am holding my breath for the next installment of this series.
Well where to start with this book. We are back with Aspen and Phoenix. Things for this couple was never going to be easy. When a one night stand turns into Aspen falling pregnant the couple have a lot of stuff to deal with. Add to that dysfunctional families on both sides, starting a new college, Phoenix's dreams of joining the NFL and Aspen's dreams and goals. Neither of them wanted to add a kid into the mix but that's what's going to happen.
The chemistry and sexual attraction between them is off the charts however Phoenix is hiding secrets which means that the sexual chemistry turns into rage and anger towards each other. How are they going to cope raising a child when everytime they are together they argue and fight.
There is no denying the connection and attraction they feel for each other if only they would stop being so stubborn and just admit it.
This story is full of drama and angst and conflict and OMG the cliff hanger at the end. I literally am holding my breath for the next installment of this series.
September 1, 2023
This series is such an enjoyable read about the four elite guys at Hidden Valley School and the girls they fancy. I would suggest reading this series in order, not because you have to, but because it's a great series and you get to see a lot about each of the main male characters as they are present in each other's stories and lives, being as they are all four related and best friends as well. Also note, this series has two books, a continuation duo for each of the four heroes, making it an eight-book series with a novella that comes before the first book in the series.
Isla Vaughn does not disappoint with this book, which is part of Phoenix and Amber's story. She has written yet another great set of characters who are facing some very real world problems while trying to find their paths in life. This is a super fast read because you are literally drawn into the story and these characters lives so much that you just want to keep reading to find out what happens next. I can't wait to read more about Phoenix and Amber's story in the next installment, Cruel Love. The cliffhanger has me counting down the days until book 6. Do yourself a favor and check out this dark yet engaging new adult romance.
Isla Vaughn does not disappoint with this book, which is part of Phoenix and Amber's story. She has written yet another great set of characters who are facing some very real world problems while trying to find their paths in life. This is a super fast read because you are literally drawn into the story and these characters lives so much that you just want to keep reading to find out what happens next. I can't wait to read more about Phoenix and Amber's story in the next installment, Cruel Love. The cliffhanger has me counting down the days until book 6. Do yourself a favor and check out this dark yet engaging new adult romance.
September 1, 2023
5 Stars
Cruel Hate is Book #5 in the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn. This instalment picks up right where the previous book, Cruel Start, left off- so I highly recommend reading that book before starting on this one as it contains the prequel build up for this story.
I know I keep saying it, but this series really does keep getting better as we go- getting more intriguing and angstier with each new addition. Ms. Vaughn outdoes herself time and again.
As with the other books in the series, this is a NA bully romance, with a surprise pregnancy element, a fake relationship, enemies to lovers, chemistry, spice, angst, drama, friendship, intrigue, emotion, family tension, jealousy, suspense, drama/dynamics, and more.
A one-night stand that leaves a permanent reminder brings challenges that neither Aspen nor Phoenix are prepared for. So, they agree to a fake relationship as a way of navigating these new waters. But Ms. Vaughn doesn’t make things easy for them, that’s for sure. The heat is on- but I need to wait to find out how it all turns out because this ends in a cliffhanger- so Aspen and Phoenix’s story is set to continue in ‘Cruel Love’ (Book #6)- I can’t wait to get my hands on it and see what happens.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Isla Vaughn!
Cruel Hate is Book #5 in the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn. This instalment picks up right where the previous book, Cruel Start, left off- so I highly recommend reading that book before starting on this one as it contains the prequel build up for this story.
I know I keep saying it, but this series really does keep getting better as we go- getting more intriguing and angstier with each new addition. Ms. Vaughn outdoes herself time and again.
As with the other books in the series, this is a NA bully romance, with a surprise pregnancy element, a fake relationship, enemies to lovers, chemistry, spice, angst, drama, friendship, intrigue, emotion, family tension, jealousy, suspense, drama/dynamics, and more.
A one-night stand that leaves a permanent reminder brings challenges that neither Aspen nor Phoenix are prepared for. So, they agree to a fake relationship as a way of navigating these new waters. But Ms. Vaughn doesn’t make things easy for them, that’s for sure. The heat is on- but I need to wait to find out how it all turns out because this ends in a cliffhanger- so Aspen and Phoenix’s story is set to continue in ‘Cruel Love’ (Book #6)- I can’t wait to get my hands on it and see what happens.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Isla Vaughn!
September 6, 2023
I absolutely love reading Vaughn's Hidden Valley Elite series, it is my favorite series I've read in a long time! The real-life situations that these characters get themselves into, and the way that they handle them just is phenomenal. This is the continuation of Phoenix and Aspen's tale of an unexpected pregnancy resulting from a one-night together. It is so endearing to watch how their strong personalities continue to clash against each other, as they are both rather self-centered characters, each feeling that their situation is beyond what they can control or handle. Yet if they would both develop open communication, they would realize how much they need to depend on each other. This book was so hard to put down, it kept me reading all day today, I just couldn't put it down from the second I opened it. I am so anxious to see what the outcome will be in the next book from the horrendous cliffhanger that we are left with! My heart aches to read the finale of Phoenix and Aspen's tale. If you've read any of the books in this series, make sure that you go in order, because each book builds upon the next, and you do not want to miss out on anything! I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested and loves reading enemy-to-lovers romances.
@Brandy Rymer
09/2023
@Brandy Rymer
09/2023
September 19, 2023
Cruel Hate by Isla Vaugn is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
Cruel Hate is the fifth installment of the Hidden Valley Elite series. Isla Vaughn writes romance novels full of complex characters, strong alpha males, and fierce women. The story of Aspen and Phoenix is exactly that. Aspen is level headed, deals with no nonsense and knows exactly what she needs to do in life to deal with an unexpected pregnancy. Phoenix is a jock, falling behind in school, dealing with family drama, and trying to figure out how he can financially support a newborn. Will the two of them be able to work out their differences for the sake of a baby?
This was a very short, 189 page, quick read full of drama, steam, and what the heck kind of moments. I have a love/hate relationship with these characters. Depending on the moment, I am rooting for one over the other. The end leaves you with a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to get my hands on Cruel love. The name alone gives me hope that my love/hate relationship will take a turn. I highly recommend reading this ENTIRE series. Isla Vaughn is a wonderful author who knows how to draw her reader in leaving you craving more at the end EVERY. SINGLE. TIME!
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
Cruel Hate is the fifth installment of the Hidden Valley Elite series. Isla Vaughn writes romance novels full of complex characters, strong alpha males, and fierce women. The story of Aspen and Phoenix is exactly that. Aspen is level headed, deals with no nonsense and knows exactly what she needs to do in life to deal with an unexpected pregnancy. Phoenix is a jock, falling behind in school, dealing with family drama, and trying to figure out how he can financially support a newborn. Will the two of them be able to work out their differences for the sake of a baby?
This was a very short, 189 page, quick read full of drama, steam, and what the heck kind of moments. I have a love/hate relationship with these characters. Depending on the moment, I am rooting for one over the other. The end leaves you with a cliffhanger. I can’t wait to get my hands on Cruel love. The name alone gives me hope that my love/hate relationship will take a turn. I highly recommend reading this ENTIRE series. Isla Vaughn is a wonderful author who knows how to draw her reader in leaving you craving more at the end EVERY. SINGLE. TIME!
September 21, 2023
Big fan of Isla Vaughn and the way her prose and world building draws you right in. I personally have trouble remembering sometimes that these students are in high school and early college, but to be fair I have never been an elite member of anything, been a con artist, Olympic level diver, NFL level football player, or anything else the rest of the characters deal with in this series. Regardless, as far as any type of "complaint", that's probably it.
Phoenix and Aspen are from different places in life. Phoenix has made it to college alongside his cousins and is leading the Thane University football team as the star QB as a freshman. He meets Aspen and neither are fans of the other. After a fling, Aspen finds herself pregnant. While neither are happy with the situation, they both have things happening that would be easier if they presented themselves as a couple. In the midst of pretending to be together, they both develop feelings they refuse to acknowledge or communicate about. There's a lot of very immature ways to handle things between them, but the chemistry, fear, angst, confusion and so many other emotions keep you enthralled through the read.
Another win in the series!
Phoenix and Aspen are from different places in life. Phoenix has made it to college alongside his cousins and is leading the Thane University football team as the star QB as a freshman. He meets Aspen and neither are fans of the other. After a fling, Aspen finds herself pregnant. While neither are happy with the situation, they both have things happening that would be easier if they presented themselves as a couple. In the midst of pretending to be together, they both develop feelings they refuse to acknowledge or communicate about. There's a lot of very immature ways to handle things between them, but the chemistry, fear, angst, confusion and so many other emotions keep you enthralled through the read.
Another win in the series!
September 9, 2023
Cruel Hate is the followup to Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn. This series has all of my favorite tropes: it's a darkish bully enemies to lovers romance between Pheonic & Aspen with a side of fake dating and a surprise pregnancy.
After a ONS with football rising star, Phenoix, Aspen finds herself pregnant. Both characters are facing a myriad of real-life & relatable issues while tryinig to balance a fake relationship and the fallout of that and the pregancy. I can't lie, I love an angry broken boy who is holding his true feelings close to the vest, so my heart is with Phenoix even though he is not always likable. Aspen is a strong & fiesty character & the chemistry between them, the good & the bad, pops rght off the page.
This is a fast-paced intense story that ends on a crazy cliffhanger that had me squealing! I will be counting the days until I can get my hands on the next book. I haven't read the other books in the seres, but I'm definitely gongi to circle back because the side characters are just as intriguing as the main ones.
Thank you Chaotic Influencers for hooking me up with an early copy of Cruel Hate.
After a ONS with football rising star, Phenoix, Aspen finds herself pregnant. Both characters are facing a myriad of real-life & relatable issues while tryinig to balance a fake relationship and the fallout of that and the pregancy. I can't lie, I love an angry broken boy who is holding his true feelings close to the vest, so my heart is with Phenoix even though he is not always likable. Aspen is a strong & fiesty character & the chemistry between them, the good & the bad, pops rght off the page.
This is a fast-paced intense story that ends on a crazy cliffhanger that had me squealing! I will be counting the days until I can get my hands on the next book. I haven't read the other books in the seres, but I'm definitely gongi to circle back because the side characters are just as intriguing as the main ones.
Thank you Chaotic Influencers for hooking me up with an early copy of Cruel Hate.
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