In the second half of Skylar and Damon’s story, they have been discovered in a compromising fashion. To say Gia is livid is an understatement. Gia is somehow still popular despite Damon not choosing to date her. Gia does all she can to ensure Sky’s life is as miserable as possible. Instead of seeking revenge, Sky has decides the only way to redemption is to stay away from Damon and endure Gia’s tormenting actions all while dealing with complications from her father.
Damon fights for Skylar and their happily ever after. Meanwhile, Skylar is making herself miserable by fighting Damon’s pull. Once Sky is honest with Damon about matters in her personal life, Damon will do all he can to keep Sky. Will Damon and Skylar get their happily ever after or go separate ways to find love?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Pesekhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Pesek2023-07-08 20:10:182023-07-17 06:59:52Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Megan Pesek
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.
This was a great 5 star read. I continue to be pulled into this series, the author does a great job with her writing. I was excited to get the rest of Skylar and Damon’s story. All of the characters added a great element to the story. I had a love-hate relationship with some of them. We get so much in this book, it felt like there was more than one story going on. I will warn there is some content that may be triggers for some. The darker the better for me. My emotions were all over the place, we get several twists and turns. I can’t wait to read more from this series and author. If you like dark bully reads this is the series for you. 1-click and get started today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Austinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Austin2023-07-06 22:10:562023-07-14 11:26:39Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Austin
This was a great book. I highly recommend reading the other books in the series before this one because they all flow together.
This book focuses on the stories of Skylar and Damon. Skylar and Damon have a lot of history together and not all of it has always been pleasant. Damon is a stubborn guy and with his family connections and being one of the top guys at school makes life easier yet harder for him at the same time. He also is used to getting what he wants when he wants it.
Skylar is a girl who has one close friend that has been around most of her life. She would do anything for her friend and her friend’s happiness. Even if that means sacrificing her own happiness. She is not an open book and holds a lot of secrets that are slowly going to come to light.
What will happen when Damon is told he can’t have what he wants? What happens when the secrets of the past come up to haunt Skylar? Can Skylar make her friend happy and get what she wants as well? Do opposites really attract?
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 Corley2023-07-06 13:21:522023-07-14 11:25:19Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kiana Corley
Isla Vaughn does it again with Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4), I could not wait to get my hands on this book, and let me tell you it was so worth the wait!!! I loved continuing the story of Damon and Skylar’s romance. These characters are so well written, you just feel like you’re right there watching everything unfold, hoping that everything works out. The setting has stayed the same throughout every single book in this series, it’s amazing how much I feel like I’m a part of the story. There are so many surprises and twists that I did not see coming, that I was on the edge of my seat most of the time, cheering on Damon and hoping that for once he could get and keep the girl. You do not want to miss this exciting story in this series, it just keeps progressing, bringing back all of the old characters that we know and love from the entire series. I cannot wait to start reading the next book in the series, it’s so hard waiting, this series is one of my favorites! It is a must-read for anyone who loves a good high school romance with lots of high-flying emotions and of course the mean girls. @Brandy Rymer 7/2023
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 Rymer2023-07-06 01:00:162023-07-14 11:02:49Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brandy Rymer
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!
I love Isla Vaughn books. Such a great writer who keeps the story interesting all the way through. It’s also a very easy read. I never want to put the book down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Troyerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Troyer2023-07-05 18:27:322023-07-14 11:14:08Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Troyer
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!
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!
I wasnt sure how this one would go with how the previous book ended. (if you haven’t read Brutal Days do that first and that’s not a suggestion that’s a requirement lol)
Damon and Skylar, what a mess things have become and with being their age their feelings are strong but neither know what to do with them and then they worry about the thoughts of others around them (don’t we all at that age)
I won’t spoil anything here as this book was packed with lots of eventful things, reading them makes the story understood and it’s highly needed to make sense of it all.
Cannot wait to dive into Cruel Start! This series is one of my favorites.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lyndsey Fairleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLyndsey Fairley2023-07-02 20:37:052023-07-02 20:37:05Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lyndsey Fairley
This kicks off right at the end of the last one with Gia discovering Damon and Skylar in a rather intimate moment.
Disregarding any crumb of friendship Gia is on the war path to make Skylars life miserable. what’s worse is she won’t let Damon protect her or retaliate as she feels she deserves the treatment she’s getting.
They concoct a plan to have a “fake” relationship so the buzz will die off but boy they both catch feelings real quick and the chemistry continues to build.
Real danger comes a calling from Skylars dad and she will be forced to come clean with her feelings and Damon may just learn how much like his brothers girlfriend Skylar really is…and may even shut down some demons he’s been carrying because of it.
Will they make it? Will Skylar stay or will her and her mom run and hide.. can Damon protect her and keep her like he’s wanted the entire time… and what of this obnoxious Gia…can her and Skylar kiss and make up?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2023-07-02 20:28:232023-07-11 12:15:50Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Melissa Saxton
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
Skylar and Damon have been caught in her bed by her mother and Gia. When Skylar had gone into the living room to talk to Gia, Damon dressed and followed. Gia slapped Skylar and Damon intervened to prevent Gia from slapping her again. Skylar felt horrible that Gia wouldn’t talk to her and she was pretty sure Damon didn’t talk to her either. The following day, she went to work, Gia entered with her new friends. Gia taunted Skylar with remarks “I don’t know what he saw in you other than a cheap f*ck” :Bring me a Diet Coke, and don’t touch the straw, who knows how many diseases you might have after screwing half the guys in our class.” When Skylar exited work, her car tires were flat. Damon picked her up and took her home.
School wasn’t any better because there was a group wearing #TeamGia t-shirts. The laughing, rumors, and Gia even being so bold as to shove Skylar in the hallway made life almost unbearable for Skylar. Damon didn’t take too kindly Gia’s antics and plotted payback. However, Skylar tied his hands because she still cared about Gia. Just when things couldn’t be more stressful, Skylar noticed a strange car was appearing down the street from her house and then in the parking lot at her job. Her father was supposed to be released from prison soon. He had gone for almost killing her mother and hurting her. Only Gia knew this secret, but with the turmoil possibly ending their friendship, who could Skylar turn to.
Watching Damon change from being called Demon into someone with more compassion was entertaining. This book has all the witty remarks, justifiable revenge, and steamy scenes for that any romance novel would have. However, realistic elements of possible danger, destroyed friendship, and unpredictable twists are also included. The details are vivid and the alternating view from Damon to Skylar gives this book a full 5 stars. I recommend this series to anybody who likes relatable adult stories.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Runyonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Runyon2023-07-02 17:42:232023-07-11 12:14:41Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Stephanie Runyon
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.
Brutal Nights is the next book in the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn, this book carries on from Brutal Days, which needs to be read first or it will make no sense. At the end of the last book Damon and Skylar’s relationship was discovered by her mum and best friend. This instalment follows the two characters in the aftermath of this, trying to work out what their next steps are while also navigating the complexity of high school friendships (and mean girls) while also dealing with an unwanted visitor from the past. I am really enjoying this series, looking forward to the next book already!
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 Dick2023-07-02 15:28:582023-07-11 12:14:19Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Juls Dick
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75592449-brutal-nights” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1672933406l/75592449._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75592449-brutal-nights”>Brutal Nights</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/5661598438″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> I swear these books are too short! Book four in an eight part series is here and it was another good read. Damon and Skylar are still dancing around one another, but the attraction is too intense to ignore. Skylar finds out that her father, who has been in prison, is set to be released and he wants revenge. Damon, understanding what is about to happen from the experience with Riley and her mom, asks the one person he truly loathes for help. Will Damon be able to save Skylar in time? Each book in the series is good on its own, but to get a better background you should read them in order. Damon has always had to be tough and act like he didn’t care, he is your typical bad boy. I felt like he matured a lot over these last two books and we finally got to see that vulnerable side we have all been waiting for. I can’t wait to read the next installment of this seires. <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-Alba2023-07-02 09:20:042023-07-11 12:20:01Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba
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 a prequel to Aspen and Phoenix’s story. Their story continues in book five and six of the Hidden Valley Elite Series. Although you don’t need to need to read the first four or their prequels, I would recommend you do!! It is such a great series and the previous books give you a lot more information about other characters and events that are mentioned here and there throughout this book. The prequels are wonderful little starters and I am so glad that I read them! Back to this book. Cruel Start is so good! I can’t wait to finish Aspen and Phoenix’s story! Aspen is spending her last summer before college working and staying away from family drama as much as possible. She needs the stress relief that comes from cliff diving at the cove. She uses it to get away and unwind from life. After a dive she crashes into Phoenix. He’s the hottest man she’s ever literally run into. She’s the only girl to ever get under his skin. A night of passion at a cove party turns into the biggest mistake she could imagine and has repercussions he always said he’d never make in his life. Her risk-taking days are over and he’s risking more than ever. What will these two do when those two lines show a plus? Are their lives over? There goes NFL for him and college for her, right? And what about the fall out with their parents?! Their life plans are going up in smoke quick! Check this book out! If you love enemies to lover books (that end with a cliffhanger!), you will love this new adult romance. This story continues on with book five Cruel Hate and then book six Cruel Love, which I personally can not wait to read!!
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.
Determination. With each book in this series, I fall more and more in love with Isla Vaughn and her incredible work. This is book 4.5 in the series and serves as the prequel to Phoenix and Aspen’s story. It’s their last summer before they start college in just a few short weeks and one-night changes both of their lives. Phoenix is a football star excited to get to Thane with his cousins Cole and Damon and twin brother Shane, one party, one surfer girl alters his plans in an unexpected way. Aspen is excited and sad about going to Thane for college and leaving her younger sister home with their parents who are in the middle of a nasty divorce. One chance encounter at the cove has both haunted by the other in their dreams, then the party when karma decided to repeat history. Both have a similar story as far as their parents. Both having a young pregnancy on the verge of life changing career moments. The only difference is the decisions the fathers made. For Phoenix his father walked away at the first chance, for Aspen her parents married “doing the right thing” but unhappy and unhealthy relationship over the years. Never a fan of love, Aspen tells Phoenix that she feels he deserves to know but tells him he’s off the hook it’s her responsibility now. Not having positive female influences in his life, mother is great but works too much, aunt was manipulative, needy, and damaged and Tracey, brother’s girlfriend one track mind gold digger. He refuses to do the “relationship” thing and trapped like his cousins and brother with the distraction of a girl. Wants in the NFL and has plans on how to get there. How will Phoenix handle the news of being a father and “off the hook”? How does being pregnant as a freshman in college affect Aspen’s life? Can they reach an agreement moving forward? While the previous books had slightly more niche complications or story arcs this one has one that I feel many people can relate to. Being the product of a teen pregnancy where my father chose not to stick around, I have always related to Phoenix and Shane in that aspect of their lives. Though history is serving up a seismic level dose of karma for both Aspen and Phoenix, can they find a better way to make it through than their parents did? Now the long wait for the first book in the duet Cruel Hate, August 31st, 2023, to discover what the journey holds next for Phoenix and Aspen.
Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone
Oh man ohhhh man, I LOVE this series, I cannot get enough!!! I could rant and rave about this author and what she has done with this series and it still wouldn’t describe it.
First off, holy hell that was steamy, I thought after reading the first three books, no one could top my love for Riley and Cole, their chemistry, love story, the angsty back and forth… but man was I wrong. The chemistry between Damon and Sky is quite frankly, panty melting, this book had me in a literal chokehold. I love the direction the author went with the continuation of the series, there is still a lot of unsolved trauma seeping in for Damon from the previous books. Instead of all the drama revolving around Damon and his father, a-lot of it centered around sky and some issues with bulling from a best friend recently turned enemy. Sprinkle in a dash of family drama from sky to keep you on your feet and you have the makings of a wonderfully told story. I cannot lie, as much as I feel like the author did them all justice I would have enjoyed more cameos from Riley and Cole or even a bit more insight as far as Phoenix and Shane go but also, I’m full of anticipation for the next couple of novels to see what lies in store for the two cousins.
I would, however, not recommend attempting to read any of the books of this series out of order, you will be thoroughly lost and sad when you realize you’ve spoiled these story’s for yourself, this author loves to leave these books as cliffhangers. But I HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone who likes enemy’s to lovers, forced proximity, alpha male, young adult type books. Grab the first one and get ready for a wild ride, because this series is fantastic.
Brutal Nights, Hidden Valley Elite Series, Isla Vaughn, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance, Romance, Jessica Stone, June 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.pngJessica2023-06-30 19:30:042023-07-11 12:14:01Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone
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!
Ok so Brutal Nights was everything I hoped it would be and more! Talk about angst in this book, it had it in bucket loads! I was fortunate enough that I didn’t have to wait after that cliff-hanger of the previous book and it was straight back into the action in Brutal Nights. I really did feel for Sky, she definitely found herself caught up in the middle of something she really didn’t want to be in and all because she is such good friend and wanted to help Gia out on her quest for her senior year and unfortunately chemistry got in the way and thing didn’t go quite as planned! This book was so easy to read and I honestly could not put it down, I was completely caught up in Sky and Damon’s story. Brutal Days should be read prior to reading Brutal Nights – both stories were amazing read and I would highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Matthewshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Matthews2023-06-30 13:49:192023-07-11 11:44:34Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Katie Matthews
Brutal Days was a fantastic story. I was hooked from the very first page until the last. The authors writing was really engaging and the characters were well thought out and brilliant to read about. Sky was a fantastic character – I really liked her and Damon well he’s one of those characters you should really hate but you have to love! The chemistry between the two of them was HOT!! I loved that Sky wasn’t intimidated by Damon at all, she was perfectly capable of holding her own! That cliff-hanger though …… I was so pleased I had the next book to dive straight in to – I’m not sure I could have waited!! An amazing book and well worthy of the 5 stars I give it! Highly recommended to other readers!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Matthewshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Matthews2023-06-30 13:30:562023-07-11 11:44:27Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Katie Matthews
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