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
Once again I had to read more of her books. Isla Vaughn has become my favorite author. The characters are amazing each story has a different unique love and hard-core drama. I definitely recommend this series to anyone, it is easy to follow and there are a lot of turns and twist in her series. It is hard to choose which character in her series I love the most. So far all of them.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlene Gonzalezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlene Gonzalez2023-07-14 12:12:262023-07-17 07:43:48Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Charlene Gonzalez
Brutal Days is book three in Isla Vaughns Hidden Valley Elite series. Oooooo man this is messy. And I couldn’t stop reading it. Gia was bleh and I just wanted to smack some sense into her. But I can definitely remember some girls that were just like her in high school. I was obsessed with the chemistry between Sky and Damon, the sneaking around was hot and the slowly falling for each other even though they deny it… but Sky did her friend dirty and that I didn’t care for. Damon is kind of a jerk and by kind of I mean really he is. BUT THAT ENDING. While I definitely called it, it was still a way to end it. Alright girl, I’m hooked, let’s go.
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 Anderson2023-07-13 22:25:272023-07-17 07:54:15Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristan Anderson
Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn is Book 3 in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. I do recommend reading the books in order to get the full effect of the story and characters. Brutal Days Follows the story of Damon and Sky. Like the other books in this series it is a High School Academy Bully Romance. If you like Enemies to Lovers this is for you. The tension and chemistry between the characters is so HOTTT and will leave you wanting more. These stories are all around or under two hundred pages and make great quick reads when you are in the mood for spice.
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 McQuigg2023-07-13 22:00:162023-07-17 07:52:20Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn-Review by Victoria McQuigg
This is the third book in the Hidden Valley Elite series and I don’t know how, but these books just keep getting better. You don’t have to read the first two books and the prequel in order to read this one, but I definitely would, because you get to see more of the characters and their history. I’ve not been able to put this series down since I read the first prequel book. Isla Vaughn is an amazing author who conveys the steamy love-hate relationships between these characters, Damon and Sky, in such a way that you feel like you’re a part of their story. This book is just the beginning really for Damon and Sky. I can’t wait to learn more about them in the next book, Brutal Nights, which is the conclusion of their story. Will Skylar be able to overcome her past and will the second of the four elite of Hidden Valley find love? I can’t wait to read more and find out. Especially as the series continues and we get to read Damon’s twin cousins’ stories of angst, love, and lust.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Donyahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDonya2023-07-13 21:10:352023-07-17 07:49:39Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Donya Pedigo
Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn is available now in eBook and Physical Book ⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
Isla Vaughn has not written a book that I did not like. Brutal Days can officially be added to the list. Brutal Days is the third installment of the Hidden Valley Elite series telling the story of Damon and Skylar. This installment is 190+ pages of banter, secrets, lies, angst, chemistry, and tension. I highly recommend reading this entire series in order due to the introduction of characters; however Brutal days could be read as a standalone with Brutal nights as they both reflect solely on this couple of characters. Vaughn knows how to draw her readers in, keep their attention, and have them begging for more the entire time. The cliffhanger at the end of Brutal Days left me thanking the book heavens that Brutal Nights was already in my digital library. Not only do I recommend this book and series, I recommend this author to anyone who enjoys romance novels, enemies to lovers genre, and hidden relationships. This new adult, high school bully romance should be enjoyed by a mature audience but you wont regret the decision to pick up this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Mertzhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Mertz2023-07-13 11:49:042023-07-17 07:33:32Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Mertz
Although this is book 3 in the Hidden Valley Elite series, this can be read without reading the first 2 since its the 1st for this couples relationship. I really loved everything about this, this was so very fast paced, and I read it one sitting. I loved both Damon and Sky and I truly couldn’t get enough of their relationship.
The cliffhanger at the end had me begging for more!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erin DeRomahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin DeRoma2023-07-12 21:07:562023-07-17 07:29:49Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Erin DeRoma
WOW WOW WOW! This book was one that I could not get out of my head when I finished it! I cannot wait to read more books by this author! Reading young adult books where there is obvious conflict with the main characters before they get together is one of my weaknesses! This book ended on a cliff hanger, and I was not able to get it out of my head. This was by far one of my favorite reads that I have read so far! Run don’t walk to get this book!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carlie Del Gallohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarlie Del Gallo2023-07-12 19:42:372023-07-17 07:29:32Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by CARLIE DEL GALLO
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/143488186-brutal-days” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite #3)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1682681374l/143488186._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/143488186-brutal-days”>Brutal Days</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/5687219112″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> Although book 3 in the Hidden Valley Elite series, I have read this as the first of a duet and It is an amazing read.<br />The characters are starting their senior year and we follow Skylar who is on a scholarship, her best friend Gia and Gias plan to hit big senior milestones in their last year at school, wanting to reach from an unknown to Prom queen and a few milestones on the way. <br />Skylar will do anything for her friend, and puts herself in a no win situation, as her friend reaches for the unobtainable Sky is busy in the background.<br />Damon, wanting to follow his brother and cousin to Thane college after senior year with the elite from the football team, is king of all he surveys except for when it comes to Skylar.<br />A well written enemies to near lovers and high school romance, add in a dark background for both lead roles and you have a book that you do not want to put down. There are twists and turns that keep you hooked. <br />I am straight onto reading the next one and looking out for more by this author. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tracy Ghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTracy G2023-07-12 09:39:042023-07-17 07:32:51Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh
Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn 4 Stars
This book is like taking a sip of water when you’re dying of thirst. It is a short novella, a prequel to Cruel Hate and Cruel Love. It is the brood the love story between Aspen and Phoenix. It may be short but it packs a punch! I fell in love with the two main characters. Aspen is beautiful and courageous. Phoenix is driven and determined. He seems like a jerk but he really isn’t. His heart is in the right place . I was so absorbed in the book that I was surprised when it ended. It ends on a cliffhanger which really sucks. I will definitely be reading the next two books in the series. I need to know what happens!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anna Hirschhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnna Hirsch2023-07-11 13:58:112023-07-17 07:19:22Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Anna Hirsch
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
I think that Damon is now my favorite MMC in this series. He puts on a hard exterior, especially when it comes to making a bargain with Sky to help her best friend Gia. But in reality, he’s a big cinnamon roll for Sky. I really liked Sky, with her sass, snark, and loyalty. Having picked up right where we left off at the end of Brutal Days, this installment of the Hidden Valley Elite moves quickly, leading up to the HEA you are rooting for with this couple.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brittanyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrittany2023-07-09 17:43:332023-07-17 07:02:56Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brittany Angel
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
Brutal Days was intense and angst-filled. It was full of love, spice, romance and dramatic. I loved following Damon and Sky’s story. Personally, I would read the stories/books in order for the best experience of the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Robbhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Robb2023-07-09 03:28:372023-07-17 07:09:50Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Stephanie Robb
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!
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
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.
