Cruel Hate – Page 2 – Itsy Bitsy Book Bits

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

September 7, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kirsten Berkebile

It’s a continuation from Cruel Start, I promise you that it is worth it. This series is mind blowing and keeps you on the edge of your seat as you are reading it. I laughed, I cried and most of all I connected with Aspen and Phoenix. You get a little more information on Aspen’s family in this one. While trying to continue school and getting ready to a have a baby seems daunting enough, add a mix of his family drama and her family drama and you have a good visual of what is yet to come. I have not read the last book yet, however I can’t wait to see how this plays out.

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s a continuation from Cruel Start, I promise you that it is worth it. This series is mind blowing and keeps you on the edge of your seat as you are reading it. I laughed, I cried and most of all I connected with Aspen and Phoenix. You get a little more information on Aspen’s family in this one. While trying to continue school and getting ready to a have a baby seems daunting enough, add a mix of his family drama and her family drama and you have a good visual of what is yet to come. I have not read the last book yet, however I can’t wait to see how this plays out.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Crystal Jimmo

September 6, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Crystal Jimmo

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you have not read Cruel Start, I HEAVILY suggest you read it before even reading one word of Cruel Hate. Everything will make much more sense. Cruel Hate picks up where Cruel Start leaves off. The angst, fear, frustration, and darkness are back at it again. School isn’t going great for either Phoenix or Aspen. The punt bunnies won’t leave Phoenix alone, and Aspen is catching hell from her parents. The only way that Phoenix can think of to fix both problems is to have a fake relationship. But does it really fix things or does it make things worse? This book ends on a cliffhanger and I’m just chomping at the bit to find out what happens next!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Paloma Fierro 06/09/23

September 6, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Paloma Fierro

After a rough start Aspen and Phoenix are having quite the semester. Both are having serious issues regarding school, family, friends and of course their little peanut. Their story just gets a lot more complicated than what they can expect.

While Aspen wants to have a more present partner, she still does not want a boyfriend, so as any immature and unqualified college future mom, her head is everywhere but not where it should.

Meanwhile Phoenix feels the pressure of having low grades due to his problem to learn, but he rather bottle up all instead of accepting help in a healthy and humane way to progress.

This kind of couple makes you understand the importance of a good uprising and why it is easier to prevent problems than solve them.

Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brandy Rymer

September 6, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Brandy Jo Rymer

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

September 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Star’s
Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn

Cruel Hate is the fifth book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series and is a Enemies to Lover’s Romance New Adult Romance that will have you turning the pages till the end. This is packed with drama, suspense, family drama, tension, enemies-to-lovers and plenty of angst. I highly recommend reading the prequel Cruel Start before diving into this book as this one picks up where the prequel left us. Each book in this series keeps getting better and hotter than the last one. This is Phoenix and Aspens Duet and holy smokes! These two had a one-night stand that brings a shocking surprise that neither one was truly prepared for. So, a plan is formed to keep both their parents off their backs. But will this fake relationship turn into more than that? These two don’t have a easy time but can they navigate through it all together or will it end in a disaster? I highly recommend reading this book. I can’t wait to read the next book to find out how it all ends. I look forward to reading many more books by this author.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Troyer

September 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Michelle Troyer

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isla did it again. This is such a good series. This book is about Phoenix and Aspen. Phoenix wants to play NFL, but Aspen is pregnant. How will a baby fit in? The book ended on a cliffhanger. Can’t wait to read the next book to see what happens. I cannot get enough of Isla’s books. It’s an easy and quick read. I can never put never put the book down. Always exciting and suspense filled. I highly recommend Isla’s books. She does not disappoint!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kerry Baker

September 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kerry Baker

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I could not wait to get my hands on this book and start reading. As soon as it hit my kindle I opened it immediately and did not put it down until I had finished. It just had to know how things would progress after the previous book. It took no effort to become engaged with this book. I love the characters. I would say they are some of my favourites but that would also apply to every single couple in this series so far.
This author has such a enigmatic and captivating writing style. I love each and every book. They are all completely different yet have the same feel about them. Not only is this one of my favourite series this year, it is only of my favourites overall. I cannot wait until the next book to see how things turn out.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angelina Frazzini

September 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Angelina Frazzini

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is book 5 of the series. This is the first part of Phoenix and Aspen’s duet but Cruel Start should be read before this one. I have loved every minute of this series and this book is no different.

Phoenix and Aspen can’t seem to communicate without fighting. Which is pretty inconvenient when they are experiencing something they need to communicate about. I’m not going to say much about what happens in this book because I don’t want to give anything away but seriously, read it!

It is so well written. The characters are great, even though their behavior sucks sometimes. I was hooked from the beginning and can’t get enough of this series. There is so much angst and feeling you get sucked into the world! I highly recommend!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Manda Kelly

September 4, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Manda Kelly

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was really awesome. I ended up reading some of the others in the series after I read this one. To say I’m obsessed with the Hidden Valley Elite may be a slight understatement. Phoenix and Aspen may be my favorite couple so far. They have this love/hate/love thing going on, and I am SO HERE for it. I am sitting on PINS and NEEDLES waiting for the next book to find out how their story ends. Isla Vaughn has created a world I love escaping to. Full of beautiful people, and wonderful friendships and lots of drama, mixed in. I highly suggest her! She’s got magic in her fingers. Creating worlds that give an escape from our own, even if just for the chapters, its enough to appreciate her talent.

Review by: Manda Kelly

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Christine Baranek

September 3, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Christine

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cruel Hate
By: Isla Vaughn

Isla is a phenomenal writer and in this series she has created the perfect characters who keep you coming back for me. They hook you in and don’t let you go until the next page and their stories continue to the next book so you are anxiously waiting for the next book to find out what happens next. I definitely do not recommend missing a single book, not only because they are so phenomenal, but also because the each book provides context for the next. Which in my opinion just makes this series so special. This book is Phoenix’s and Aspen’s story. Which is so very complicated. But yet it is so good in all the right ways. Phoenix and Aspen find themselves in an incredibly complex situation yet watching them handle it kept me turning the pages so very fast. This book definitely kept me wanting more so I will be anxiously awaiting the next one! I definitely recommend picking up this series!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Robin Rankin

September 3, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Robin Rankin

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isla Vaughn

Cruel Hate: A Dark College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5)

I am so completely and totally obsessed with this series. I’m not sure why I am as deep as I am, but want more and I count the days until the next book releases. If you haven’t read at the very least Cruel Start then stop here and go read that first, it’s the prelude to this book. But I recommend starting with the very first book Savage Start, you can thank me later.

Phoenix needs to learn to trust people outside of his brother and cousins. I think if he let go some of what’s bothering him he wouldn’t be as angry and that would go a long way.

So many things happen in this book and we learn a little more about Phoenix, his grandfather and rest of his immediate family not including Damon and Cole. I could not put this book down and thankfully I had a nice long weekend so I could stay up late reading.

This book ends on a cliffhanger which usually bothers me but not in this instance because I know when I will have the next book in my kindle and ready to read.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

September 3, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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!!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Stephanie Runyon

September 2, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Stephanie Runyon

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Megan Pesek

September 2, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Megan Pesek

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isla Vaugh did it again! If you’ve read the previous books in this series you knew Cruel Hate would get your blood pumping and she did not disappoint!
Phoenix and Aspen are connected forever after a one night stand left Aspen pregnant. Now in college, they decide to start a fake relationship that should be mutually beneficial. Phoenix is still a hot head with NFL dreams. Aspen is an artist with dreams of opening her own business. A baby may complicate things, but both are determined to be their best for the baby.
Cruel Hate also brings in some family drama that was previously only alluded to. The cliff hanger means I need to read the next installment now! Can’t wait to see how their HEA happens!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins

September 2, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Helen Dawkins

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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!!!!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Cindy Mayberry

September 2, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Cindy Mayberry

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Before I say anything about this story, let’s start with reading this in the order this series is meant to be read. This is one of the most highly explosive stories I have read in a long time. This is Phoenix and Aspen’s story. Let me tell you these two are the strongest and most dedicated people I know. Nothing comes easy for them. School, families, friends and doing what is right, all comes with a price. So let me ask, can this couple get through this? Will they withstand all of the obstacles laid out for them? Will their love be stronger than what they have both seen in their own family? The story has so many twists and turns. It is a fast paced page turner for sure. I will give you NO Spoilers as you need to read this book to believe the strength Phoenix and Aspen have. This author has always been on my favorite list, this one puts her at the top. As here I sit waiting for the next book in this series. I love this series and look forward to reading the next installment.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Maria Colón

September 2, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Maria Colon

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Why, oh, why?!?!?

In all honesty, I normally try to wait series out so I can read them in one binge. And I’ve been torturing myself by continuing with this series and stepping outside of my comfort zone.

Phoenix and Aspen are not only at odds with one another but with themselves and we are in for a rollercoaster of a ride with this book.

They both are trying to figure out their place not only on campus but in the world and with the pressures of college life and life, their worlds go spinning out of control and who better to take it out on or blame but one another?

We are still seeing visits from characters from previous books, so we know there’s more to come but first we must see where this CLIFFHANGER takes us.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Mulvey

September 1, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Michelle Mulvey

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

review by @xchellex

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jenique Bornman

September 1, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jenique Bornman

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Cruel Hate” by Isla Vaughn is a sizzling rollercoaster of emotions that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult romance is packed with drama, angst, and a twist of unexpected parenthood. The story revolves around a daring protagonist who throws caution to the wind, resulting in an unexpected pregnancy by the quarterback, a man she can’t stand. To escape their respective predicaments, they agree to a fake relationship, but as sparks fly and emotions intensify, the line between reality and pretense blurs. Vaughn’s writing skillfully weaves together complex characters and a captivating plot that will leave you eagerly anticipating the sequel, “Cruel Love.” Be prepared for mature content and a cliffhanger that will leave you craving more. This is a must-read for fans of steamy romance with a touch of drama.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book #5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angela Hayes

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Angela Hayes

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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!

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Beverly Finnie

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Beverly Place-Finnie

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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 is 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!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lucy Machard

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Lucy Machard

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author never fails to write a fantastic story. I’m normally not someone who reads the whole pregnancy trope, but the fake dating, while they fight their feelings, and try to navigate this part of their lives. I still have a major soft spot for Damon, but damn is Phoenix quickly becoming second place over Cole. Also, what the hell was that ending? I don’t want to wait until the 28th to get the rest of the story! I need to know what happens! I do love though how we get more insight into the family dynamic of the Savage/Bennet family, and I just know some sh*t is going to go down in the next book with both the Bennets and the Reids. Overall, fantastic book, highly recommend, and don’t talk to me on the 28th, cause ya girl is gonna be busy reading book 6!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by M Policicchio

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Lorralei Hoerner

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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…..

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristan Anderson

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kristan Anderson

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn is book five in the Hidden Valley Elite series. Yes, it is best to read them in order and almost necessary but totally worth it. I absolutely love these characters and was excited to finally see Phoenix and his relationship with Aspen. In the prequel, we find out that Aspen is expecting and Phoenix is obviously the dad. Watching the pair navigate this awkward time together was interesting. They are not together and really don’t even like one another but you can slowly see them coming together and then BAM, something throws a curveball. A very very slow burn but not without some very interesting scenes. I cannot wait to read the second part of their story because that ending…. Phew that was something!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ayla Phipps

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Ayla Phipps

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122860977-cruel-hate” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite #5)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1680522443l/122860977._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122860977-cruel-hate”>Cruel Hate</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/23199631.Isla_Vaughn”>Isla Vaughn</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5810915671″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Phoenix is working hard to make it into the NFL and he isn’t going to let anyone or anything distract him. That is until he met Aspen. After a one night stand they are now expecting a child and all he can think about is their future together. Will Aspen keep the baby though? She didn’t want anything to do with him in the beginning but now her feelings are changing. These two believe they don’t want any kind of romance so a fake relationship is proposed. It benefits Aspen by keeping her parents off her back and for Phoenix it keeps what he calls “punt bunnies” off of his. Will they be able to keep the line firm on fake or will it get blurred and turn real? These two together were great. I have enjoyed all of the books in this series so far, each just a bit more than the last. I will be sad when we reach book eight!
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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kiana Corley

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kiana Corley

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was an amazing addition to the Hidden Valley Elite series. Isla does an amazing job of developing strong plots and characters.

This book follows the story of Phoneix and Aspen. They have a complex relationship due to the fact that they are expecting, yet, nothing really to each other. Aspen has always been careful when it came to guys until one night when she decided to throw caution into the wind. Phoneix has two goals in life get into his dream job and not repeat his parents’ mistakes.

After finding out they are pregnant Phoneix suggests an idea that Aspen thought was insane. They both know they are basically strangers to one another but they still have one big thing in common and it will be availing sooner than they think.

How long can a relationship stay fake when there is a big tie between two people? Will they grow together and be doomed to hate each other? What happens when other people start inputting their opinions?

Read this book to find out what happens next with Aspena and Phoenix.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Donya Pedigo

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Donya

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jenni Bishop

August 31, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jenni Bishop

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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