Posts

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Barbara Bohls

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is an amusing quick read. It sets you up for the new series and gives you a glimpse of what is to come. It draws you in from the start and doesn’t let you go even when it finishes. This book has me wanting more and more. The writing grips your attention and the story line keeps you turning pages. This book also kinda piggy backs iff of the Elite Series by this author. It deals with the siblings that have been around but not prominent and now they are. If you like everything tied up with a pretty bow then this not the book to read at the moment. You will want to wait till you have time to read the next book as you are left with a cliffhanger. I am normally not a fan of those but this book just spoke to me and I can’t wait to see what happens. This is a must-read for anyone and especially those that have read the Elite Series.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Katie Matthews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love it when authors do prequels to their next full story – it’s a great introduction to the characters and for me gives me a deeper understanding of them and also makes you want to read their full story because you need to know what is going to happen and I am so excited to read Aspen and Phoenix’s full story. This was a brilliant read and having met Phoenix in previous books I was already highly anticipating his story and this taster has made me want it even more. I really loved meeting Aspen in this book, she is a nice character who is dealing with lots of stuff at home. I thought her and Phoenix had this genuine connection and I am looking forward to seeing how this relationship develops over the next two books!

@katiem
View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Sugar

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh man, the drama! This book is about Phoenix and I’m so excited about it. This is a short prequel but my goodness SO much happened and it’s blowing my mind lol. I can’t wait for the next book to know what happens with everything! Highly encourage you to read the other books before this one! Because they’re all so damn good! I can’t get enough of them.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shannon Fowler

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are following along, you will know that this book is a prequel and a CRUEL START to the story of Phoenix and Aspen! It is also part of the Hidden Valley Elite, which started following this group of people when they were in high school. Several have now moved onto college but their situations, drama and angst have followed them there.

These two characters have lived in the shadows of their siblings and even their neglectful parents. Phoenix and Aspen are risk takers and care little about the damage they may cause to themselves. However, a little surprise addition begins to change things, but we really don’t know just how much as this story does end on a cliffhanger!

Looking forward to more of their story in Cruel Hate.

View all my reviews

 

Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Aranza Cardoza

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel Start: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn

4 out of 5 Stars

Once again, Isla Vaughn has given us a great book. I can’t tell you how much I love Isla Vaughn’s writing. As usual it was a very easy and fun book to read. In this book we get to see the beginnings of Aspen and Phoenix. I was unable to put it down because of how much I enjoyed it. Can’t wait for the next one.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Troyer

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW!!! What a great start to Phoenix and Aspen. Sex, lust, relationship. Cannot wait to read the next book!!!

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Erin DeRoma

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you just picked this up without reading the previous books in the series, put this down (momentarily) and read the others (in order) first. These books are absolutely addicting and easy and quick to read but they must be read in order.
Just like the previous books in the series, I was pulled in from page one and couldn’t put it down. I have read every book in this series in one sitting.
Vaughn is so descriptive it is like you are there living all of this with them. The movie in my head easily plays out while reading this. I consider my self fantastic at casting!
This is a must read! Perfect beach read that one could easily finish in one beach trip.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Deb Robinson

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This prequel drew me in right away. Aspen is dealing with so much parent drama that she escapes to the cove to cliff jump. (That would not be relaxing to me.) I’d be terrified. This is where she meets Phoenix, the super hot guy that makes Aspen speechless.

The author is focused on the main characters but the back story and characters are going to hook you as well. I will most definitely read the next two books in the series.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Not even sure where to start. Phoenix, the responsible cousin. Aspen, the new girl in town, the one he can’t seem to take his eyes off of. A one-night stand that took Aspen’s virginity and left her with a parting gift. They don’t really know each other. Not even sure they like each other. But when the stick turns pink again and again, Aspen makes the decision for herself. She will let Phoenix know to make the decision for himself.

When Phoenix finds out, the trauma of his past comes roaring back at him. Phoenix won’t do what his dad did to him. He will be there. He will be a good dad, even if it means risking everything he has worked for his entire life, all the plans he has made. The question is now what about Aspen.

Aspen’s life is in flux. Her parents never stop fighting. They just moved to town because of her parents’ financial situation. Her sister is barely around. All she has is starting college in the fall. Her waitressing job will help cover everything her scholarships won’t. She just needed a little fun in her life. Cliff Diving was her escape. Until she saw him. She knew he was dangerous and a player. She liked the risk and took it. Thinking it was going to be easy to walk away. Now, she can’t. Her life is forever changed but that doesn’t mean his has to be.

Phoenix and Aspen start navigating what this means to each of them, separately and together. Throw in some family drama, some college frustrations, and some planned deception, what could go wrong? I can’t get enough of these characters. I love, love, love this series!!! I never want it to end. I love that all the boys are back together again at Thane. Can’t wait for the next installment. I need my fix. Seriously addicted to all things HVE!!!

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angelina Frazzini

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a prequel within the series. It introduces Aspen and Phoenix and sets up their story before their duet. It was a quick read and I read it in one sitting but it was good!!

Aspen is new in town. She’s not sticking around long though because she’s off to Thane for college. She meets Phoenix at a party and decides to take a risk other than cliff diving. Phoenix feels a pull toward Aspen and now that she’s pregnant, he’s going to step up unlike his own father. He doesn’t have time for or want a relationship but he’s going to be in his kids life. Having Phoenix involved might be the biggest risk Aspen takes.

This was a fast read but it sets up Aspen and Phoenix’s story very well. I can’t wait to read their duet!

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashly Renner

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series just continues to get better and better! Every time I open a new book in this series I fall a little more in love with this author and her ability to tell a story. I love the way the author gave us this teaser for the start of Phoenix and Aspen’s story, and absolutely cannot wait for the rest of the story to come.
One night, one choice can change the trajectory of lives, which both Phoenix and Aspen quickly find out. What was supposed to be one night of fun could link them for the rest of their lives, but the fire between these two is undeniably hot. Both have very similar backgrounds, the difference in their future is how they decide to handle things. Act like their parents, or step up and properly take care of their responsibilities.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brittany Angel

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an excellent prequel into the next duet in the Hidden Valley Elite series. When Aspen and Phoenix’s paths cross, neither of them will realize what the lasting impact will be. I started to really warm up to Phoenix in Brutal Nights, and now I can’t wait yo get to know both him and Aspen more.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cruel Start was such a tease!! Like all of the Hidden Valley Academy books, it hooks its claws into you and doesn’t let go. This installment focuses on Phoenix, who we know from the previous books, and Aspen. Aspen is new to town but has already woven her way into the Elite. Both are about to live their worst nightmare; something they both experienced and planned to avoid like the plague. Anxiously awaiting reading Cruel Hate to see how this all plays out.

View all my reviews

Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone

Like with the previous 5 books in this series, this book had me in a chokehold. This book is about Phoniex, Cole and Damon’s younger cousin, and his love interest Aspen, and it starts the beginning of a new time period that the first books were leading up to, college.

Though I was a bit disappointed with how quickly this book was over, I know that the author has some angsty, dirty drama gracing the pages of the next book for us as always. Isla loves to leave these books on CH but ALWAYS delivers a wonderful climax and conclusion. To say I’m invested in this family and their stories is an understatement.

I find these books fun and easy to read, the continuation from the previous books is wonderful and well thought out, I genuinely enjoy and crave getting to know each and every character more intimately, I highly recommend getting your hands on the first 5 novels and taking a dive into the world this author has created, you will not regret it.

Cruel Start, Hidden Valley EliteSeries, Isla Vaughn, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, New Adult, Romance, Jessica Stone, July 2023

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Mandy Ott

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a way for Isla Vaughn to begin Phoenix and Aspen’s story than with Cruel Start! Although this is just a short novella in the Hidden Valley Elite Series, it packs quite a punch! Isla Vaughn is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors with the way in which she weaves her stories. I feel like I am transported wherever her characters are. And speaking of characters, they are believable, relatable, and surprisingly realistic, even if a tad over the top sometimes. I couldn’t help but fall in love with the undeniable chemistry between Aspen and Phoenix. I cannot wait to see where the rest of their story goes!

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Anna Hirsch

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn
4 Stars

This book is like taking a sip of water when you’re dying of thirst. It is a short novella, a prequel to Cruel Hate and Cruel Love. It is the brood the love story between Aspen and Phoenix. It may be short but it packs a punch! I fell in love with the two main characters. Aspen is beautiful and courageous. Phoenix is driven and determined. He seems like a jerk but he really isn’t. His heart is in the right place . I was so absorbed in the book that I was surprised when it ended. It ends on a cliffhanger which really sucks. I will definitely be reading the next two books in the series. I need to know what happens!

Review by @Anna Hirsch
View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brandy Rymer

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am hooked on the Hidden Valley Elite series and was so excited to see that we are moving on to Phoenix’s story. Phoenix is Shane’s twin brother who does not do relationships, unlike his twin who’s been dating the same girl for the past two years…until now. Phoenix meets Aspen and it is lust at first sight for the both of them, too bad Aspen is a virgin and Phoenix doesn’t do relationships, or will he? I love how Isla Vaughn continues building upon the relationships of her past characters while bringing in new love interests for our main men. They are all such well-developed characters, that they feel like people you went to school with when you were a teen. This book definitely took a turn that I was not expecting for the talented football player. Of the two twins, Phoenix had always seemed like he had his head on straight and his eye on the prize of the NFL. Too bad a one-night stand may have caused that to take a turn in a new direction. What is he going to do with this strong pull that he has for Aspen, will they be able to work things out, or will their situation change everything? I am so excited to find out about the next book in this series! Bravo Isla Vaughn, this was another amazing read!
@Brandy Rymer
07/2023

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Maria Colon

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I want to not give it 5 stars because I am still angry…intrigued…anxious…and impatiently waiting for the next book.

This quick introduction to Aspen and Phoenix also provides a little preview of what is to come with Shane and Tracey. It’s like a trailer for what’s to come only we don’t get most of the story in the NINE chapters. Yes, NINE chapters.

I read it after a long day thinking I was going to be rewarded and I was so irritated that it was over so fast that I almost threw my Kindle.

So much happens that I didn’t expect. Phoenix’s devious side comes out. Shane’s more like his brother and cousins that we thought. Tracey is who we knew she was but with a helping hand of manipulation that we might or might not be mad about. Aspen is new to us, but I think we’ll like her.

It’s been over twelve hours since I read Cruel Start…I’m still angry, intrigued, anxious, AND impatiently waiting for not only Cruel Hate but the rest of the books in this series.

And it is a 5-star read for me despite my conflicted feelings.

Isla Vaughn has quickly become a go to author for me.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jenique Bornman

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

She does it again!! This author is my favorite author for 2023!!
For sure a hidden gem.
This is the start of Phoenix & Aspen’s storie, and let me tell you it starts of with a zinger. This Novella is exactly what a Novella needs to be…. it drew me in from the start and has me salivating to get my hands on the next book ASAP.
I would recommend you read the series in order because there is crossover from the other characters and you will not be disappointed

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Juls Dick

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a little gem of a series, Cruel Start is the next book in the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn. This book is the start of Phoenix and Aspens story. When they accidentally bump into each other after new girl in town, Aspen, is cliff diving at a local party spot, the two have instant chemistry. However, despite their attraction, Phoenix has a strict one night only policy which means he pushes Aspen away. When their one night together leads to an unexpected surprise, time will tell if they can get over their issues and work it out. I am really enjoying this series and each books is better than the last. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series to see how the couple’s story pans out.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Megan Pesek

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn is the start of Phoenix and Aspen’s story. This short prequel starts with a bang and does not let up! It’ll be tough waiting for the rest of their story. I need to know how it unfolds from here because Phoenix is resembling his own father’s path in this prequel.
If you’re just starting the Hidden Valley Elite Series you could start here, but I’d highly recommend starting from the very beginning to get the full effect of the plot lines and characters.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristin Boutelle

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel Start is a very easy and fun read. I really love how Shane and Phoenix are there for each no matter the situation. I like how the characters are slowly complementing each other, especially Aspen and Phoenix. You know the next story is going to be good, especially when the alpha male inserts himself to make sure everything is going to work out whether Aspen asks for help or not.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lucy Machard

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I will say this, there is one thing about this author i dislike, and it’s the freaking cliff hangers. But at the same time, I love the cliff hangers, because it makes the next book so much better! What a wild start into Phoenix and Aspen’s story! This book is a super short read, but it’s packed full of detail. I absolutely loved it, and I’ll be waiting for the next one on pins and needles!

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kerry Baker

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series just keeps getting better and better with each book that I read. For the prequel to the next duet, this really starts off with a bang. I already suspect Phoenix and Aspen are going to be my favourite couple of the series. They have undeniable chemistry and yet clearly have a long road ahead of them.
This author has created such a strong and lasting series. It is one of the best I have read all year and I do not want it to end any time soon. I am desperate to get my hands on the next book to see how things will play out. If you haven’t read it yet I would highly recommend you pick up this whole series today.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122944378-cruel-start” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1680522551l/122944378._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122944378-cruel-start”>Cruel Start</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/5666287458″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
All Aspen wanted to do was get away from her fighting parents. Cliff diving to clear her mind she never imagined she would run into the gorgeous bad boy, Phoenix. Emotions and feelings she isn’t familiar with come up when he saves her from falling when she accidentally runs into him. Phoenix isn’t looking to get a girlfriend, but this girl could be the end of that. Their one night stand is about to turn both if their lives upside down. Will they end up becoming a couple? This prequel gives you just enough info to get you hooked and begging for the full story of Aspen and Phoenix. I’m also dying to know if his twin, Shane, finds out he’s the reason for the end if his relationship with Tracey. I felt bad for Shane, but I absolutely understood where Phoenix was coming from in regards to that whole situation. I can’t to see what happens with these characters and how everything works out for them.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shea Gilkerson 7/3/23

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novella is technically book 4.5 in the Hidden Valley Elite series. While it is the very first part of Phoenix and Aspen’s story, it’s so much better to read the others, first. I’ve really grown to love Phoenix’s character throughout them, which makes me even more excited to read his arc.

Phoenix eats, sleeps, and breathes football. He has always stuck to the plan – and now that he’s graduated high school, the next step is Thane, which will lead him to the NFL – like his dad. It’s time to buckle down and not let anything distract him once he starts college, but until that first day…it’s SUMMER. That means drinking, partying, one night stands….and Aspen.

Aspen is struggling. Life in general is hard. Family garbage, work life, just…planning for the future. When she gets a chance to sneak away and dive in the cove, she never misses an opportunity. That’s where she meets Phoenix and they leave the world behind for a night. However, in the greatest cherry on top ever, Aspen becomes pregnant.

Their chemistry is out of this world, but this is exactly what Phoenix DID NOT want. He doesn’t know how to be a father, he never had one of his own around. He wanted to have one last summer of recklessness and relaxation until Thane in the fall, and now he’s playing a balancing act. Aspen’s hormones are leading her wildly along through many stages in an already stressful life. These two together are electric, the cliffhanger has me chomping at the bit for book five, and this read is over in a heartbeat.

Excited to read about the group together at Thane in the next book!

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Marlow

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Welcome to the prequel of Phoenix and Aspen’s story. This author has not given any disappointment yet so I was ready to read this one! I suggest reading the other books in this series so you know who some of the existing characters are. Also, as always, check trigger warnings your mental health is more important! I will mention there is pregnancy in this so if that is not your thing, just know that it exists. We have Phoenix who is fully focused on his NFL career until he has his eye caught by Aspen. This is absolutely a dark bully college romance, but I love the way this author writes each character’s emotions. I am highly anticipating the next!

Reviews by @michellerenee6590

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn

Cruel Start is part of the Hidden Valley Elite (Book 5)and is the prequel to Phoenix and Aspens Duet Cruel Hate and Cruel Love. You guys this author is killing me slowly with this teaser and cliffhanger. I devoured this book in no time and absolutely can’t wait to get my hands on Cruel Hate. I highly suggest you start with book one and read this series in order as you’ll get to know the characters better and the back story of what has been going on. Phoenix and Aspen holy moly these two. He’s heading off to play football at Thane University. He’s all about football and getting the grades to. He’s having one last summer of fun before college starts. Aspen is new in town and all about taking risks. These two have one night of off the charts passion and now both of their lives are about to drastically change. I highly recommend reading this NA bully romance to find out what happens next I’m already ready for more from this Author and this ridiculously good series.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Stephanie Runyon

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Phoenix hates Tracey, Shane’s girlfriend of two years. He knew she was a gold digger. While playing football on the beach, Shane’s shoulder is dislocated. Instead of riding to the hospital with Shane, Tracey hangs back at the beach. Phoenix intercepted Tracey when she finally showed up at the hospital. Instead of letting her go back, he lied and said that Shane’s football career was over. Tracey didn’t show up for Shane’s physical therapy appointments. When she tried to visit Shane at the house, Phoenix repeated his lie.

Meanwhile, Aspen was trying to escape the constant fighting at her house. Her sister had moved into her boyfriend’s house. Aspen overheard her father shouting how his life would have been different if her mother hadn’t trapped him with the pregnancy. A party was being held at the cliff that Aspen liked to dive at. Her friend Erin introduced Aspen to Piper, Teagan, and Tracey. Piper thought Aspen looked familiar, but Aspen said they had only arrived in town. The girls were friendly, except Tracey was still standoffish. Phoenix hit on Aspen at the party. Piper encouraged her, so Aspen followed Phoenix to a secluded spot. Aspen lost her virginity that evening. However, Phoenix then walked away afterwards. Unfortunately, Aspen does not have the chance to walk away.

This novella left me wanting to dive right into the next book. This is the perfect teaser for this series and it leaves a lot of scenarios in the air. Phoenix, the always quiet and reserved one of the entire group getting into a bind with a poor girl depending on her scholarship to stay out of the toxic life her parents had is definitely worth reading.

View all my reviews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shannen Kern

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have come to love every single book I’ve read by this author, and the Hidden Valley Elite series has become one that I follow very closely! I’m a sucker for a good enemies-to-lovers romance so this was a perfect read for me. I enjoy how the author seamlessly ties in the characters from previous books and makes you feel all of the angsty emotions. Reading this has me primed to learn more about Aspen and Phoenix’s story, so I am keeping an eye on the release date! If you love a bully, enemies-to-lovers, adrenaline pumping, emotional rollercoaster, then this one is for you. I highly recommend picking up the series from the beginning to soak in all of the chemistry and background for each character!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews