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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kiana Corleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKiana Corley2023-08-31 19:40:172023-09-09 21:04:51Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kiana Corley
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Donyahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDonya2023-08-31 19:24:062023-09-09 21:00:37Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Donya Pedigo
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.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-08-31 18:54:222023-09-02 21:58:23Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jenni Bishop
AHHHHH! This author is killing me with these cliff hangers. The tension between Aspen and Phoenix is off of the charts. Aspen does not feel like Phoenix is there for her, but being able to be in Phoenix’s head at the same time is an advantage but also frustrating. Shouting into the book at each character, surprisingly, does not help them understand.
I will never stop reading this series. I absolutely love them and I strongly feel that anyone else would love them too. They are relatively short, fast reads. But they are filled with so much drama, character building, and romance! You will not regret picking up this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Allyson Whttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAllyson W2023-08-31 17:56:162023-09-09 20:57:08Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Allyson Ware
Ok so this series if you truly want to understand Phoenix start from the beginning but is it necessary? No. But it makes it so much deeper Aspen and Phoenix have to figure out this surprise pregnancy from a one nighter. At first it seems like these two won’t even interact after but the chemistry is too much to be without and they find one another but their tempers are both red hot and it makes for fireworks in and outside the bedroom. He doesn’t do relationships and she refuses to turn into her parents. Can they figure out their relationship and their feelings before it’s too late? They need one another and don’t even know it. The cliffhanger too I wasn’t even mad about… cuz.. whew!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2023-08-31 17:55:182023-09-09 20:56:50Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Melissa Saxton
Cruel Hate is Book Five in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. This book continues with Aspen and Phoenix’s story from Cruel Start, so I highly recommend reading it first. Honestly, this is an absolutely amazing series that should be read from the first book to understand who each character is, as well as their backstory.
In Cruel Start Aspen decided a good way to test her freedom would be to have a one-night stand with a handsome stranger at a party. Then she learned a short time later that she was pregnant and had to tell this sexy stranger, Phoenix, that he was about to be a baby daddy. Now, having learned of her pregnancy Phoenix is asked by Aspen to go along with her as her fake boyfriend when she reveals the news of her pregnancy to her parents. Neither of them want a real relationship so the idea of a fake relationship seems like it could be a good idea. Phoenix wants to focus on his football career and sees this as a good way to keep the punt bunnies from pursuing him. Aspen hopes that Phoenix will offer her support and step up to help her co-parent the baby. Neither of them are prepared for the complications that arise from their fake relationship.
Aspen and Phoenix are both struggling with school and personal issues which neither wants to bother the other with and this complicates matters farther. Both come from dysfunctional families, have just started college, and both have big dreams for their future. Phoenix wants to pursue his career in football and get drafted into the NHL. Aspens wants to pursue her art and open a fantasy board shop with her sister where boards with her design would be sold. Aspen has no support from her parents and does not feel that Phoenix is stepping up to the plate as he should. She realizes that it is up to her to raise the baby on her own and support herself. Phoenix is having personal issues with his brother and wants to be there for Aspen but somehow keeps messing up. Then there is the undeniable attraction and chemistry between them that only complicates things farther.
This has been an outstanding series from the first book and each book just gets better than the last. The storylines are intense, complicated, and take twists and turns that keep you hooked until the end. The characters are complex, engaging and throughout the book we see them grow. Initially Aspen seems like a girl just testing the bounds of her newfound freedom by losing her virginity. We quickly learn that Aspen is smart, strong, and able to take care of herself. She refuses to raise her child in the type of dysfunctional family that she grew up in. The constant bickering between her parents created a toxic environment and she vows that her baby will not grow up in that kind of environment. Phoenix comes across initially as a jock who uses his good looks and charm to woo women. We quickly learn that deep down he is sensitive, kind, and compassionate. He wants to help but has a lot going on and tends to get preoccupied. Phoenix wants to help raise his baby and does not want to be anything like his own deadbeat dad. This book had angst, drama, family dynamics, unexpected romance, and leaves on an intense cliffhanger. I cannot wait for the next book!
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 Barnes2023-08-31 15:26:162023-09-09 20:55:55Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
This series just keeps getting better and better. Oh my! Phoenix and Aspen’s story just rips the heck out you. The emotions will be on a roller coaster. Phoenix starts off as a bit of a jerk but he kind of has to grow up one life throws consequences at him and Aspen. An unexpected pregnancy has them having relook at look at life. Phoenix is also having to wonder about his twin. There is a lot going on in this story. You can find mean girls, sibling drama, family issues and more. Some old faces peek into the story. The author does leave you with a cliffhanger for the next book. I am eagerly awaiting Cruel Love and what it may bring.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-08-31 08:54:512023-09-02 21:54:08Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shelly Kittell
This is my favorite couple in The Elite series. I absolutely love the story of Aspen and Phoenix. I also absolutely hate the cliffhanger and cannot wait for the new book to be released! If you haven’t read Cruel Love don’t read this one because you will be behind. A great series to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tonya Merritthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTonya Merritt2023-08-31 08:09:052023-09-09 20:52:04Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tonya Merritt
I have enjoyed reading this series from the first book. This installment is just as great if not even better than the previous books. I highly suggest that you read the previous books before this one to help you see where the characters have been and going currently. I found this book to be well written and hard to put down. A story that is a little dark and a little bit of everything in it. I enjoyed how the characters pulled me into their world with ease and kept me engaged to the end. They are relatable characters that are strong and made the story for me. I enjoyed watching their growth as well as their chemistry throughout the story. This is a fast paced story that you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend this book and this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2023-08-31 07:48:062023-09-09 20:51:40Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Bobbi Wagner
This is the 5th book in the series and when I say these books just keep getting better and better. I truly mean that. Let’s start with the series, you will want to read these books in order. It will help you understand the characters and the situations that are presented in each book. Now, when I say that these books just keep getting better and better with everyone, I truly mean that. The complex characters and plot twists that are presented seem to be more and more captivating with each book. In this book, the plot has some twists and turns that I didn’t see coming and it also has deep character growth. The angst that is expressed in this book is not for the weak of heart. The situationship that is being had between he main characters is something that can be relatable to some people. The growth and development of the situation and the characters will have you turning pages almost as fast as you can because it is that good. This book was a super quick read and kept me glued to the pages. You won’t want to stop reading to do anything else until you are finished with this book. Speaking of finishing this book, there is a cliffhanger but I wasn’t mad at it. Yes, I normally hate cliffhangers but this one I feel really made the whole book. You will have emotions that you don’t know what to do with. This book will sit with you for a few days after you finish reading it and it will leave you craving more because let’s be real, you really, really want to know what happens. Reviewed by: @bbohls View all my reviews
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Barbara Bohlshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBarbara Bohls2023-08-31 07:24:392023-09-09 20:51:28Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Barbara Bohls
Omg omg. This series is literally ripping my heart out and stealing my breath. This is the 5th book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series and you most definately need to read every book in order. Trust me you won’t regret it.
Well where to start with this book. We are back with Aspen and Phoenix. Things for this couple was never going to be easy. When a one night stand turns into Aspen falling pregnant the couple have a lot of stuff to deal with. Add to that dysfunctional families on both sides, starting a new college, Phoenix’s dreams of joining the NFL and Aspen’s dreams and goals. Neither of them wanted to add a kid into the mix but that’s what’s going to happen. The chemistry and sexual attraction between them is off the charts however Phoenix is hiding secrets which means that the sexual chemistry turns into rage and anger towards each other. How are they going to cope raising a child when everytime they are together they argue and fight. There is no denying the connection and attraction they feel for each other if only they would stop being so stubborn and just admit it. This story is full of drama and angst and conflict and OMG the cliff hanger at the end. I literally am holding my breath for the next installment of this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2023-08-31 06:11:222023-09-09 20:50:45Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kerry Carr
That ending is just cruel! Love, love, love this whole series. Please read the books in order or at least read Cruel Start before this one. Phoenix and Aspen had me tangled in knots. Aspen’s character is amazing and is exactly what Phoenix needs. The angst is off-the-charts in such a good way. Just prepare yourself for the ending – ugh – how I despise cliffhangers. Now the waiting game begins for Cruel Love. Highly recommend!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rayne Easthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRayne East2023-08-31 05:31:292023-09-09 20:50:20Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Rayne East
I threw caution to the wind and my v-card at the one man I can’t stand. What did that get me? Pregnant.
Now, we’re both screwed. Mr. Superstar wants the punt bunnies off his back. I want my parents off mine. To do that, he proposes a fake relationship. But I know the truth… Spending time with him can only lead to trouble.
After all, neither of us has an answer to the biggest problem of all.
How fake can it stay when he’s the father of the child I’m carrying?
Cruel Hate is an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult, sports romance with pregnancy and plenty of angst. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing. It is not a standalone and does end in a cliffhanger that continues with a ton of heat and a HEA in Cruel Love.
Isla Vaughn is the author of the Hidden Valley Elite series. Her romance books are full of complex characters, strong alpha males, and the fierce women who bring them to their knees. When not writing, she can be found daydreaming about owning a beach house, reading, or drinking too much coffee. You can find her atwww.IslaVaughnAuthor.com
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Cruel-Hate-Isla-Vaughn-E-Cover.jpg1138740itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-08-31 00:01:172023-09-13 19:44:22Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn
I accidentally read these out of sequence so I definitely recommend reading them in order. I enjoyed this book, it tells the story between Aspen and Phoenix mainly but includes Shane and Tracey too. Can Aspen an Phoenix work through their differences? Can’t wait for the next book! Its a cliffhanger!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Mitchellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Mitchell2023-08-29 12:18:142023-09-05 14:58:18Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Dawn Mitchell
I accidentally read these out of sequence so I definitely recommend reading them in order. This book is a great introduction to the main characters Aspen, Phoenix, Shane, Tracey and their college lives. The struggles they face an what is about to come.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Mitchellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Mitchell2023-08-29 12:12:522023-09-05 14:58:07Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Dawn Mitchell
I threw caution to the wind and my v-card at the one man I can’t stand. What did that get me? Pregnant.
Now, we’re both screwed. Mr. Superstar wants the punt bunnies off his back. I want my parents off mine. To do that, he proposes a fake relationship. But I know the truth… Spending time with him can only lead to trouble.
After all, neither of us has an answer to the biggest problem of all.
How fake can it stay when he’s the father of the child I’m carrying?
Cruel Hate is an enemies-to-lovers, fake relationship, new adult, sports romance with pregnancy and plenty of angst. This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing. It is not a standalone and does end in a cliffhanger that continues with a ton of heat and a HEA in Cruel Love.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/ISLA-VAUGHN-CRUEL-HATE-PREORDER.jpg750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-08-24 00:01:022023-12-29 20:25:22❣🌹❤🥀 ❥ PREORDER ❣🌹❤🥀 ❥ Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn
WOW!! This is my first book by this author, and what an intense way to dip my toe in! I didn’t even feel myself finding the groove of this book, I just dove right in, and the author swept me away immediately. I couldn’t put it down and found myself staying up late to see what happened next just to find myself twisting and turning in the story. The characters will have you at the edge of your seat, yelling at the book, and rolling your eyes all while tugging at your heartstrings. The amount of tension and chemistry in this story is astounding, and I thought it was written incredibly well to make you feel each of those emotions as your own. I won’t give anything away, but you will absolutely be clamoring for more from this author after finishing this book!
Savage Start by Isla Vaughn is a prequel to a new series. This was hands-down, one of the best short prequels. I have read to a new series in a long time. First, let’s just start off with the fact that the cover is absolutely gorgeous so I was immediately intrigued to grab the book. The main characters of Riley and Cole pull you right in from the start. I enjoyed the fact that from the beginning it kind of shows you that while there have always been cliques in high school and they always feel that they are so much different than the other that no matter what everybody has problems. Riley is a scrapper that comes from a dysfunctional mother at the very least, and you are welcomed into her life of mess. Just when she starts to think that maybe she can stay in one place and settle down, as predicted her life seems crazy at the hands of her mother. She doesn’t come from money and has to do whatever it takes to survive and that must bring an immense amount of stress. Cole on the other hand obviously comes from money and you would assume has the perfect little life however, you learn very quickly the old saying that money doesn’t buy happiness. He is forced into an adult role that comes with its own price. There are parts of the story that are dark so be warned but man I cannot wait to see where it goes. This book to me is very reminiscent of the high school dramas from the 90s and early 2000s like “one tree hill “, “90210 “,“gossip girl “. If you were someone who enjoyed those dramas then I think you were very much enjoy this book.
This is a prequel to Aspen and Phoenix’s story. This is a super quick read and just like the rest of the Hidden Valley Elite series it is fantastic. I really just can’t get enough of this series. Phoenix just wants to get to college and then to the NFL. Can one night of passion derail all his plans? I am now counting down the days until the next book in this story comes out.
This is the fourth book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. Damon and Skylar’s story is so packed with twists and turns. I just could not put it down. The pull between these two characters is undeniable. I am impatiently waiting for the next book in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Collierhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Collier2023-08-03 08:20:142023-08-04 12:20:17Brutal Nights: A Dark High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn review by Michelle Collier
Cruel Start is another great installment in the Hidden Valley Elite Series, and now it’s Phoenix’s turn to share his story with readers, and he didn’t disappoint.
Cruel Start is a great title for this book as it is somewhat of a cruel start for Phoenix and his “surfer girl,” Aspen! The chemistry between these two is electrifying, but they have a lot of things to overcome before they find their happily ever after!
This book is a little different from the previous books as now the characters I have come to love have now moved on to college, and I actually liked Phoenix a lot earlier on than I did the male characters in the earlier books. He wasn’t all that nice to Aspen in the beginning, but now that he knows she is pregnant, he has no intention of shirking his duties as a father.
What I have come to discover about Aspen, I like. I don’t know as much about her as I do about Phoenix because I have gotten to know him just a little bit in the previous books. Both are going to be complex and complicated characters because of the parents they have. Each has issues with relationships and love because of their parents, with the exception of Phoenix’s mother, but I am hoping they work through those for the sake of their relationship and because I like them as individuals.
The book isn’t very long as this serves as a prequel for the upcoming books, but Vaughn packed a lot of things in those pages that just give us a little taste of what is to come. Looking forward to getting to know more about these two in the next few books!
I really love this series, it has everything you could want in a romance book. Even though it’s a prequel it’s missing nothing. It has everything you could hope and want. Somehow this author makes the series better and better with each book. Read it today you won’t be disappointed!
Once again, Isla Vaughn does not disappoint. I have read every last one of the Hidden Valley Elite books and every last one is a page turner that is filled with drama, suspense and spice. All are dark, but to be honest, I like that in this series and I feel like it works perfectly well. Isla Vaughn is the queen of character development and I feel has absolutely thought about each and every aspect of her characters before she even begins writing. Her characters are flawed but in a very relatable way and they all show growth and evolution. Cruel Start is once again a fantastic addition to the series. This is the beginning of Aspen and Phoenix’s story and I am left waiting with bated breath for the second part of their story. This book is absolutely fantastic and I cannot recommend reading it and the rest of the series enough!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-07-23 19:13:052023-08-03 13:40:41Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Christine Baranek
This is the 4.5 installment in the Hidden Valleys series. Personally, I would read the book in order of the series in order to get the full context and character development but they can be read as stand-alone as well. In Cruel Start we are introduced to Phoenix and Aspen. The author definitely knows how to develop characters, write tension and keep you on the edge of your seat.
I have read every last one of the Hidden Valley Elite Series and each and every one is better than the last. I cannot recommend reading these enough. This is a series where it helps to read each one in order however. This book continues Damon and Sky’s story. Book 3 left me wanting so much more of their story. This book gives us everything – drama, spice, tension. Isla Vaughn’s story telling is unmatched and her character development is excellent. Each of her characters is flawed but in a realistic way. Damon and Sky have the epitome of a love hate relationship. Its the type of relationship that has you reading each page wondering which way the scale is going to tip. Is it going to end very poorly for them, or are they going to have a fantastic relationship? I am absolutely waiting on pins and needles for the next book in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-07-22 12:02:062023-08-03 13:19:35Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Christine Baranek
Brutal Start by Isla Vaughn is another entry in the Hidden Valley Elite series. This book is our introduction to Phoenix and Aspen’s story. I recommend reading the series to get the best context and back story of the characters. This book follows Phoenix as he starts College as an up-and-coming football star. This is what he has worked for his entire life. Football, so he can chase his dreams of making it in the NFL and sticking it to his awful father. But what happens when a night of fun with a girl named Aspen flips his whole world upside down. This Author, this series, these characters are so good. They have been living rent free in my head ever since the first book and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment. 5 out of 5 Stars.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Victoria McQuigghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngVictoria McQuigg2023-07-21 11:19:112023-08-03 13:24:59Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn-Review by Victoria McQuigg
Oh my god!! Talk about a tease!! This short intro of Aspen and Phoenix’s story leaves you hanging to make sure you read the full book. Now if you have read the other books in this series, you know you won’t be disappointed! I have read each book in this series so far and let me tell you this author does not disappoint with any of her books. Phoenix is a football star excited to get to Thane with his cousins Cole and Damon and twin brother Shane. Yet one last party and an accidental meeting with Aspen might derail his plans. How will Phoenix make football, college, and Aspen all fit together? Can he make it work? Aspen is a spitfire with her walls up, and after watching her parent’s unhappy and unhealthy relationship over the years, she could never fall in love. I can not wait to read the full story!!
I didnt know such a short prequel could contain so much drama and fun. The writing of this made it feel so impactful in such a short time, and I immediately fell for these characters. I loved each character we met, well except one, if you know, you know!!! This being so short it kind of ended on a cliffhanger and has me scrambling to grab the next and now I want to read the entire series. This has so many things in it to appeal to so many people like family drama, some spice, college atmosphere, sports. If you want something quick and exciting that will suck you in and get you started on a series than absolutely pick this up. I would recommend reading the other books in this series first to get everyone’s backstory. I didn’t and I wish I had so now I will go read the ones before this because I already love (almost) everyone so I want to read their stories!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Torihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTori2023-07-21 05:58:182023-08-03 12:39:35Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tori Werkheiser
Cruel start was a short but truly amazing beginning for the Aspen and Phoenix story. This is the prequel to the next two both which will revolve around the two.😭😭😭 It makes me so sad to have to wait for the next 2 books in this series. I need to know what happens between them now 🤣😭. I’m also looking forward to seeing all the complex characters again and what role they play in these next books. Hopefully they help out and not make things worse 😂. I hope Aspen and Phoenix can work it out for the little one or ones lmao you know twins run in the family lmao
Cruel Start is part of Isla Vaughns Hidden Valley Elite series. Let me tell you what is cruel… me not realizing this was a prequel novella! As I finished I was internally screaming NOOOO that’s it?! It was, over too soon. Really though, I should have known better. However, this is just the prequel for the two part story of Aspen and Phoenix. When one moment of passion turns their worlds upside down, the pair need to figure out how to deal with the impending future. I am so excited to see where this couple goes and what happens between them. I’m also excited to hopefully catch some glimpses of our previous characters.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kristan Andersonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKristan Anderson2023-07-20 22:19:312023-08-03 12:38:19Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristan Anderson
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