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.
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.
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Deb Robinsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDeb Robinson2023-07-17 17:24:572023-07-19 08:47:59Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Deb Robinson
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!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00M Policicchiohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngM Policicchio2023-07-17 16:52:192023-07-19 08:47:52Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio
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!
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashlyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshly2023-07-16 22:17:382023-07-17 08:00:49Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashly Renner
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brittanyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrittany2023-07-16 19:17:452023-07-17 08:00:24Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brittany Angel
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2023-07-16 10:42:352023-07-17 08:04:03Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
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
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jessicahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJessica2023-07-16 00:00:042023-07-17 08:02:47Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone
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!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mandy Otthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMandy Ott2023-07-15 16:43:072023-07-17 07:58:37Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Mandy Ott
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
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brandy Jo Rymerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrandy Jo Rymer2023-07-10 23:21:402023-07-17 07:23:51Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brandy Rymer
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Maria Colonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMaria Colon2023-07-10 15:30:052023-07-17 07:04:51Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Maria Colon
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
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Juls Dickhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJuls Dick2023-07-09 15:14:062023-07-17 07:02:19Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Juls Dick
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.
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.
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!
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.
<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>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlisa Wahtomy-Albahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlisa Wahtomy-Alba2023-07-04 01:48:382023-07-14 11:08:41Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba
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!
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2023-07-02 19:29:402023-07-11 12:15:16Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
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.
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!
He hates his brothers girlfriend as all the elite do and sees an opportunity to rid themselves of her. Will he succeed?
A chance meeting at a party, a night of passion and Phoenix walks away, but will he be able to stay away? What surprise lurks around the corner after his chance “run in” literally, into the beautiful surfer girl Aspen
And Aspen is so close to getting away from her constant drama family with a scholarship, will her meeting and night with Pheonix destroy everything.
This is another one by this author that sucks you in and leaves you on a cliff hanger desperate to find the next one
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2023-07-01 20:51:412023-07-11 11:57:34Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Melissa Saxton
This is book 5 in the Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the prequel to Aspen and Phoenix’s duet (Book 6 and 7). It is has both enemies to lover’s trope and bully romance. I highly recommend reading books 1-4 before starting this one, but it is not a must, I just think it gives a good background context for Phoenix’s character, and some of the other non-main characters.
This series just keeps getting better and better! I cannot wait to get my hands on Cruel Hate & Cruel Love.
Aspen is new to town and is barely hanging on as it is when her life was turned upside down after what was supposed to be a small fling with Phoenix. Phoenix is the star football player at the Academy, and is headed to Thane University after this summer, and then most likely the NFL.
The chemistry between these who is electric and starts from the minute they set eyes on each other. One night between the two of them may impact both of their futures. What will they decide to do about the big surprise? This is the first time we really get to see Phoenix’s mind when it comes to women, besides being told he is a ladies’ man. His thought process has always been ‘one and done’ type of mentality.
Phoenix I feel is the biggest bully out of the 4 Elite boys. He literally could care less about anything or anyone unless it has to do with his football career. I can’t really blame him though, because he has worked so hard to get to where he is. Like pretty much the other two boys, Phoenix and Aspen meet at a party, but this time at the Cove.
This big surprise threatens to undo everything both Phoenix and Aspen have worked so hard for. So what will they choose? Will they only think of themselves, regardless of what the other one wants?
I read this in one sitting, and I am so excited to see how their relationship or non-relationship evolves. This book is super-fast paced, but Isla Vaughn does a wonderful job giving you just enough details to suck you in, but also not so little details that you are left confused. This book DOES end in a big cliffhanger so be prepared!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-07-01 18:25:132023-07-11 12:02:40Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins
Cruel Start is part of the Hidden Valley Elite series. If you have not read the rest of the books in this series, I highly recommend that you do. Each previous book lays the foundation for the ones after it and introduce characters as it gives their backstory. This one is a new adult romance, enemies to lovers, story that centers around the characters of Aspen and Phoenix.
Phoenix and Aspen are heading off to college soon and trying to make the most of their summer. After a steamy night of passion together between Aspen and Phoenix after a party, Aspen discovers that she is pregnant. She feels obligated to tell Phoenix but tells him that she will accept responsibility of the baby and he can move forward and live his life. Neither of the two have had ideal role models in their parents so they have no example to follow. Aspen’s parents chose to get married to do the right thing and have had a miserable marriage. Phoenix’s dad walked away when he learned of Phoenix’s mom becoming pregnant with him. With these kinds of role models in their lives neither know what love or a healthy relationship is so both Phoenix and Aspen have sworn off relationships. Whatever choice they make will forever alter the course of their young lives. Will they choose to work together to raise the child? Will they each choose to go their separate ways?
As with all the books in this amazing series this was well written, with descriptive scenes, wonderful characters, and a storyline that pulls you in from the first pages. The characters of Phoenix and Aspen are ones that you feel yourself rooting for. Both have baggage from growing up in toxic environments so neither really know what love or a healthy relationship is. For that reason, they have chosen to remain single. However, fate intervenes when the attraction they feel at a party is acted upon and Aspen becomes pregnant. The two are faced with some difficult decisions at a young age that affects the bright futures they both had laid out for them in college. The author takes the reader on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with lust, passion, drama, bullying, dysfunctional families, angst, heartache, sorrow, secrets, lies, betrayal, and a teen pregnancy. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-07-01 15:53:322023-07-11 12:00:53Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
As high School ends, Summer comes and goes, college begins. Stop! Summer starts as Aspen stands on the edge of the cliff, she knows her dive will wash her mind clean if only for the moment. She loves diving, and she is good at it. Phoenix loves women and he is good at it. His brain of thought is “one and done”. That is until the One is stuck in his mind and he can’t be done. This is just the beginning for Aspin and Phoenix. That is where this series leads you too. So make sure you read the series in order. You won’t want to miss how this couple collides. The author has done it this time. She has once again opened a series that leaves you begging for more, so much more. Her story is fast paced and leaves no stone unturned. While this is a New Adult Romance it does touch on sensitive subjects. It also ended in a cliffhanger, so be prepared to get comfortable as your reading gets rocked. Such a must read series, I look forward to starting the next book in this series. I want more of Aspin and Phoenix!
This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. I never hesitate to read her books. This is the first book in a new series and what a great start it is. I can’t wait to see what the second book brings. This is a well written story about one steamy night and attraction that can’t be denied. I enjoyed how the author used details to make the plot and the characters pop. They are strong, relatable and kept me coming back for more. Their growth as well as their chemistry is great to watch and added to the stories entertainment value. I found this book to be fast paced, engaging and just hard to put down. I enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend this book and this author.
This author struck gold with this series. The first few books were great and add this prequel in and now I’m dying for the next book. This is mainly about Aspen ( the new girl to town ) and Phoenix. She doesn’t know him or his reputation and he doesn’t know her as they go to different schools. They literally run into eachother one day and neither can get the other out of their mind. A few days later they see eachother again and this time they get to know eachother a bit. When their time is over He walks away without looking back. They both are going to Thane so they will see eachother around campus. What will happen when Aspen lets him in on what she finds out. Aside from the chemistry between these two. Phoenix just might be a genius for what he manages to pull off with Shane. Cannot wait to see what happens there. Amazing addition to a great series and impatiently waiting for Cruel Hate!
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Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
