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Kingswood Prep #2
Spoilsport
My school bully is back, and he just blackmailed me into a one-night stand.
When I fled home for the safety of an expensive boarding school, I thought my bully couldn't afford to follow me. I never expected him to earn an athletic scholarship—one which lands him in the room next door.
Now, he's everywhere I go. In my classes, smirking at me across the cafeteria, turning up to torment me at the school health clinic… where I have another nasty surprise in store.
It doesn't help that my best friend fancies the pants off him, even if the only girl he has eyes for is me.
I would do anything to be rid of his anxiety-inducing presence. Anything except the one thing he wants most of all… for me to reveal my darkest secret.
Kingswood Prep is a series of DARK romances, each of which can be read individually or as a series. They contain mature content, and elements that may be triggering. Please read at your discretion and check the warning in the preface of the book.
When I fled home for the safety of an expensive boarding school, I thought my bully couldn't afford to follow me. I never expected him to earn an athletic scholarship—one which lands him in the room next door.
Now, he's everywhere I go. In my classes, smirking at me across the cafeteria, turning up to torment me at the school health clinic… where I have another nasty surprise in store.
It doesn't help that my best friend fancies the pants off him, even if the only girl he has eyes for is me.
I would do anything to be rid of his anxiety-inducing presence. Anything except the one thing he wants most of all… for me to reveal my darkest secret.
Kingswood Prep is a series of DARK romances, each of which can be read individually or as a series. They contain mature content, and elements that may be triggering. Please read at your discretion and check the warning in the preface of the book.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
August 28, 2023
This book was a good read, it has dark themes which are listed at the beginning. However, there's just something that didn't connect with me in the book, I'm not even sure what is.
Esme and Sebastian were on their senior year. Esme changed school ten months ago because of Seb's bullying. But Seb was obsessed with her, and he did everything he can to get into a scholarship to attend her new school.
He technically blackmailed her into having an enemies-with-benefits situation. They were attracted to each other but they also hated one another because of their circumstances.
Tbh, I'm still wasn't intrigued by the book up to 70%. It only pick up when the major twist is slowly unfolding. It was dark, though I read it before from other books, it still made me anxious and uneasy.
The last 20% of the book was engaging, but it was really a struggle for the most part. Well at least for me. It's probably the writing style, I just don't vibe with it. Overall, this was okay and short read. I didn't hate it didn't dislike it either.
Esme and Sebastian were on their senior year. Esme changed school ten months ago because of Seb's bullying. But Seb was obsessed with her, and he did everything he can to get into a scholarship to attend her new school.
He technically blackmailed her into having an enemies-with-benefits situation. They were attracted to each other but they also hated one another because of their circumstances.
Tbh, I'm still wasn't intrigued by the book up to 70%. It only pick up when the major twist is slowly unfolding. It was dark, though I read it before from other books, it still made me anxious and uneasy.
The last 20% of the book was engaging, but it was really a struggle for the most part. Well at least for me. It's probably the writing style, I just don't vibe with it. Overall, this was okay and short read. I didn't hate it didn't dislike it either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Shelved as 'dnf'
February 11, 2024Dnf @ 29%, I'm not in the right head space to read this right now. Might return to it at a later date.
Read
May 26, 2023~ Whipped Obsessed H
~ Broken heroine
~ Stealthing/blackmail/bully
~ abstinent H
☑️ Grooming/child SA
☑️ blood play/violent sex
☑️ self harm/thoughts of suicide
☑️ dubcon/blackmail
❌ no cheating, ow, death of mc
This story went differently than expected. Esme ran away from her ex friend turned bully by going to a boarding school. Seb became a rugby star so he could follow his obsession There’s not a whole lot of on page bullying, it’s mostly historical references. There’s some lighter humor provided mostly by Esme.
Seb is the star of the book, he has good reasons for hating Esme even though he’s always loved her. He remains faithful to her, there’s no OW drama here. There’s definitely OM drama however with an vindictive ex BF that leads to Esme having to leave school and eventually Seb learns Esmes dark secret accidentally at a sponsored event. He becomes a hero, saves the girl and there’s a HEA.
Many of these events seem fantastical, but it’s fiction after all. I won’t rate it because I’d probably give it 3 stars for plot execution, but I love Sebs brand of possessive obsession and the steam was good so his character gets a 5 from me.
~ Broken heroine
~ Stealthing/blackmail/bully
~ abstinent H
☑️ Grooming/child SA
☑️ blood play/violent sex
☑️ self harm/thoughts of suicide
☑️ dubcon/blackmail
❌ no cheating, ow, death of mc
This story went differently than expected. Esme ran away from her ex friend turned bully by going to a boarding school. Seb became a rugby star so he could follow his obsession There’s not a whole lot of on page bullying, it’s mostly historical references. There’s some lighter humor provided mostly by Esme.
Seb is the star of the book, he has good reasons for hating Esme even though he’s always loved her. He remains faithful to her, there’s no OW drama here. There’s definitely OM drama however with an vindictive ex BF that leads to Esme having to leave school and eventually Seb learns Esmes dark secret accidentally at a sponsored event. He becomes a hero, saves the girl and there’s a HEA.
Many of these events seem fantastical, but it’s fiction after all. I won’t rate it because I’d probably give it 3 stars for plot execution, but I love Sebs brand of possessive obsession and the steam was good so his character gets a 5 from me.
June 15, 2023
I was pretty engrossed in this right from the start. The characters are interesting and there's an underlying secret that you know is there and can't wait to unravel. That alone kept me turning pages, waiting for the truth to finally be revealed, but the spicy scenes didn't hurt either. This is definitely a bully romance, so keep that in mind if you decide to pick up a copy. Those tend to be hit or miss with me and this was definitely a hit. I can't wait to read more from this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 23, 2023
Spoilsport by Layla Simon is as alluring as it is haunting.
Esme Black, a young woman from a privileged family, appears to have it all, but in reality, she is living a dark and painful life. Betraying the only person who has ever tried to help her, Esme ruins her relationship with Sebastian and seeks refuge at Kingswood College. Fuled with rage and eager to punish Esme for her deception, Sebastian pursues her, determined to uncover the truth.
What follows is a dark, emotionally charged, yet beautiful love story. Esme is a broken and fragile young woman fighting to survive in a morally corrupt world dominated by powerful men. Sebastian eventually realizes that his obsession with Esme is not just about revenge; he cares for her and wants to claim her as his. It takes time for them to rebuild trust, but their passion for each other is a comfort to their wounded souls.
As I began reading the story, I was initially confused about the relationship between Seb and Esme. The author keeps us in suspense for a while about their past, but in the end, Layla Simon created an outstanding story. Spoilsport is a powerful and unforgettable tale that captures the emotions of each character. I highly recommend this book to those who appreciate romantic themes with unconventional dark charm.
Dual POV
Standalone
Tropes: high school bully turned protector, love/hate, dark secret
Safety Information / Content Warning:
Esme Black, a young woman from a privileged family, appears to have it all, but in reality, she is living a dark and painful life. Betraying the only person who has ever tried to help her, Esme ruins her relationship with Sebastian and seeks refuge at Kingswood College. Fuled with rage and eager to punish Esme for her deception, Sebastian pursues her, determined to uncover the truth.
What follows is a dark, emotionally charged, yet beautiful love story. Esme is a broken and fragile young woman fighting to survive in a morally corrupt world dominated by powerful men. Sebastian eventually realizes that his obsession with Esme is not just about revenge; he cares for her and wants to claim her as his. It takes time for them to rebuild trust, but their passion for each other is a comfort to their wounded souls.
As I began reading the story, I was initially confused about the relationship between Seb and Esme. The author keeps us in suspense for a while about their past, but in the end, Layla Simon created an outstanding story. Spoilsport is a powerful and unforgettable tale that captures the emotions of each character. I highly recommend this book to those who appreciate romantic themes with unconventional dark charm.
Dual POV
Standalone
Tropes: high school bully turned protector, love/hate, dark secret
Safety Information / Content Warning:
May 23, 2023
4.5 but so close to a 5⭐
I knew from the first page that this was going to be right up my alley. I just connected with Esme's character and thoughts so much, and I love a good dark, f***ed up romance. And this is definitely dark. The author has a list of trigger warnings in the beginning, so do not take them lightly because all of them are very much present and essential to Esme and Seb's story. It's difficult to describe. The story's foundation is a bully romance, but most of that happens off page before we meet the characters, and we are left with seeing the resulting trauma. These characters are very flawed and damaged individuals, and I found their actions to be very realistic and personally relatable for the experiences that they've had. They have a past that slowly develops for the reader, and it's messy; constantly going back and forth between friends, lovers, and enemies. Their chemistry is off the charts, crazy good, and wow does it get hot. My only disappointment is the ending. It gets crazy in a way that I would expect from a mafia romance, and I literally thought one of the characters was having a fever dream when I was reading it. It was violent and completely unexpected. I'm not sure if it fit with the tone of the rest of the story, or the characters, but it certainly got the job done. I'm not opposed to violence/mafia style romances at all, but that sequence was just a no for me. I'm definitely going to check out more from this author though because everything else was just my style.
My thanks to the author and Book Sirens for providing me with an arc to read and review. All opinions are completely my own and freely given.
I knew from the first page that this was going to be right up my alley. I just connected with Esme's character and thoughts so much, and I love a good dark, f***ed up romance. And this is definitely dark. The author has a list of trigger warnings in the beginning, so do not take them lightly because all of them are very much present and essential to Esme and Seb's story. It's difficult to describe. The story's foundation is a bully romance, but most of that happens off page before we meet the characters, and we are left with seeing the resulting trauma. These characters are very flawed and damaged individuals, and I found their actions to be very realistic and personally relatable for the experiences that they've had. They have a past that slowly develops for the reader, and it's messy; constantly going back and forth between friends, lovers, and enemies. Their chemistry is off the charts, crazy good, and wow does it get hot. My only disappointment is the ending. It gets crazy in a way that I would expect from a mafia romance, and I literally thought one of the characters was having a fever dream when I was reading it. It was violent and completely unexpected. I'm not sure if it fit with the tone of the rest of the story, or the characters, but it certainly got the job done. I'm not opposed to violence/mafia style romances at all, but that sequence was just a no for me. I'm definitely going to check out more from this author though because everything else was just my style.
My thanks to the author and Book Sirens for providing me with an arc to read and review. All opinions are completely my own and freely given.
August 2, 2023
4.25 stars
After discovering Layla Simon with my last read (Your Loss) I had to keep going. I liked this one too. Not quite as much as Your Loss but this was still a very solid read.
So far both the heroes I’ve read from this author start off pretty strong and callous with the heroines feelings. Sebastian has come for revenge and answers from the girl who has betrayed him. Unfortunately for Sebastian his obsession is deeper rooted than punishing Esme. He has feelings for her. He falls first and he does a terrible job of holding onto his ire for her.
Esme has been through some terrible things. She also has feelings for Sebastian so she ends up being pretty forgiving for the intense bullying he subjected her to in the past. The bullying in this one mostly took place pre-book and is only recounted in broad, vague details.
Like the previous Layla Simon book I read the ending is a bit difficult to believe. It’s entertaining though and the villains get what is coming to them.
Fast burn
No virgins
No manwhore
Dubcon
No OW drama
Some inconsequential OM drama
No cheating
Brief separation towards the end
HEA
Safety - in regards to OW/OM drama and cheating this is pretty safe. The OM is h’s ex that she’s breaking up in the beginning. He doesn’t really play a huge role til near the end when he hurts h.
This does have references to some darker material that happens to h off page before the book starts. Definitely check triggers
After discovering Layla Simon with my last read (Your Loss) I had to keep going. I liked this one too. Not quite as much as Your Loss but this was still a very solid read.
So far both the heroes I’ve read from this author start off pretty strong and callous with the heroines feelings. Sebastian has come for revenge and answers from the girl who has betrayed him. Unfortunately for Sebastian his obsession is deeper rooted than punishing Esme. He has feelings for her. He falls first and he does a terrible job of holding onto his ire for her.
Esme has been through some terrible things. She also has feelings for Sebastian so she ends up being pretty forgiving for the intense bullying he subjected her to in the past. The bullying in this one mostly took place pre-book and is only recounted in broad, vague details.
Like the previous Layla Simon book I read the ending is a bit difficult to believe. It’s entertaining though and the villains get what is coming to them.
Fast burn
No virgins
No manwhore
Dubcon
No OW drama
Some inconsequential OM drama
No cheating
Brief separation towards the end
HEA
Safety - in regards to OW/OM drama and cheating this is pretty safe. The OM is h’s ex that she’s breaking up in the beginning. He doesn’t really play a huge role til near the end when he hurts h.
This does have references to some darker material that happens to h off page before the book starts. Definitely check triggers
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2024
Esme needs a hero!!
Esme has always done what her parents have asked of her and it keeps her in a life of privilege. When Seb's mother accuses Esme's parents of horrendous crimes instead of backing her up and telling the truth she lies and accuses her of being a thief which ends up getting Seb's mom fired. Seb bullies Esme because of this and she ends up going away for school to get away from him. Seb tracks her down and gets a sports scholarship to the same school. These two will need to find a way to coexist so they can fight the real demons in Esme's life, her parents!!!
Esme has always done what her parents have asked of her and it keeps her in a life of privilege. When Seb's mother accuses Esme's parents of horrendous crimes instead of backing her up and telling the truth she lies and accuses her of being a thief which ends up getting Seb's mom fired. Seb bullies Esme because of this and she ends up going away for school to get away from him. Seb tracks her down and gets a sports scholarship to the same school. These two will need to find a way to coexist so they can fight the real demons in Esme's life, her parents!!!
May 27, 2023
I have not enjoyed a bully book this much in quite a while.
I can't wait to do a deep dive into this authors other books. Some of the stories look truly unique, which can be rather rare in the romance genre.
⚠️For safety squad:
▪️No cheating between main characters however there is an off page separation between characters where she has a boyfriend but he does not get with anyone else.
▪️OM drama from the ex
▪️No OW drama
▪️dub con
▪️degradation kink
▪️Stealthing
▪️Self harm
▪️CSA
I can't wait to do a deep dive into this authors other books. Some of the stories look truly unique, which can be rather rare in the romance genre.
⚠️For safety squad:
▪️No cheating between main characters however there is an off page separation between characters where she has a boyfriend but he does not get with anyone else.
▪️OM drama from the ex
▪️No OW drama
▪️dub con
▪️degradation kink
▪️Stealthing
▪️Self harm
▪️CSA
August 15, 2023
Not for me
At first, I could definitely see the potential in the story. Yet as the plot thickens came very unrealistic, and not as enjoyable.
Not saying that dark romance should be less enjoyable. The thing is that the dark aspect of the story made it not as engaging.
I was that it was too short to be this type of dark.
At first, I could definitely see the potential in the story. Yet as the plot thickens came very unrealistic, and not as enjoyable.
Not saying that dark romance should be less enjoyable. The thing is that the dark aspect of the story made it not as engaging.
I was that it was too short to be this type of dark.
April 26, 2023
LAYLA SIMON I LOVE YOU! Now that's out of the way let me talk about this book :D I absolutely loved Your loss, i really liked Time out but this one, i thought nothing could top Your loss but OMG this one did. As always check trigger warnings before reading because i has some very dark themes that come up. It's a bully romance with HEA.
Our main girl gets bullied in high school so she moves to a private school to get away from her bully, turns out her bully is too obsessed with her to let her go just like that. He does everything in his power to get into the private school to make her life a living hell again because he hates her as much as he's obsessed with her.
I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book, i'm a sucker for bully romance and this one just hit all the right spots for me. They both have their own demons to overcome from their past, they both have their walls up not trusting anybody until they both give in and be their true selfs with eachother. It was absolutely beautiful how Layla wrote this story, the way it progressed how they start to trust eachother. Just breath takingly beautiful. I got sad and angry and ... I just felt so many emotions reading it. The spicy scenes were unbelievably hot. The emotional scenes just wrecked me. It really does have it all.
It's something really special when an author can make you feel less alone in this world by writing a story so relatable. Some of the things she did, in order to go through life, to keep on living, to make the bad thoughts any less, Yeah it really is a gift if you can make one person feel less alone in the world and Layla did that for me. THANK YOU!
Our main girl gets bullied in high school so she moves to a private school to get away from her bully, turns out her bully is too obsessed with her to let her go just like that. He does everything in his power to get into the private school to make her life a living hell again because he hates her as much as he's obsessed with her.
I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book, i'm a sucker for bully romance and this one just hit all the right spots for me. They both have their own demons to overcome from their past, they both have their walls up not trusting anybody until they both give in and be their true selfs with eachother. It was absolutely beautiful how Layla wrote this story, the way it progressed how they start to trust eachother. Just breath takingly beautiful. I got sad and angry and ... I just felt so many emotions reading it. The spicy scenes were unbelievably hot. The emotional scenes just wrecked me. It really does have it all.
It's something really special when an author can make you feel less alone in this world by writing a story so relatable. Some of the things she did, in order to go through life, to keep on living, to make the bad thoughts any less, Yeah it really is a gift if you can make one person feel less alone in the world and Layla did that for me. THANK YOU!
April 28, 2023
This was a little darker than Your Loss or Pretty Cruel Boys. Not usually a second chance romance lover, but this one had an interesting twist. The dynamic between Esme and Seb is a little bit different than you average Bully romance, with Esme being the "rich snob" who is in the wrong and Seb being the poor serving class kid. The romantic and sexual tension is excellent and the spicy scenes were on point. I appreciate a good fast burn book that doesn't follow a precise formula as to when to add sex. I do feel like there needed to be a clearer ideo of why Seb went from hating her to being in love with her. It just seems like he kinda changed his mind overnight for no real reason, but I do appreciate that once he changed his mind, he didn't fall back into bully behavior again and that he stuck with her even when she wasn't incredibly loveable. Their friendship was refreshing, adding a little bit of humor to the book. The ending was a little too over the top, hard to suspend by disbelief on that one, but it fits with the overall tone of the book and didn't ruin the overall experience. Rather have a HEA than a ultra realistic ending anyway! Overall an enjoyable dark bully read
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This started as a bully romance but quickly morphed into something else. What bothered me most about that is that there was no real reason that Sebastian stopped tormenting Esme. It was like a switch and then he became her tormenter is what is literally quoted:
"She’s mine. Maybe not forever but in this moment, she’s mine. A shift from tormentor to protector in a split second."
This annoyed me - can't lie. Like we get the first half of Sebastian being ruthless. He shows up at her boarding school after she betrays him and his mother by accusing her of stealing from her family while she was the housekeeper and never tells Sebastian why. Their first reuniting is with dubcon that was actually kind of brutal and even gets secretly filmed and passed around their school, he moves into the dorm next door while he plays out his Rugby scholarship and harrasses her in class but then when he walks in on her self harming, he throws all that resentment out the window and decides he wants to be there for her entirely - even though he still has no idea why she betrayed him. Luckily, the ending of the book saved this - we learn that Esme wasn't the posh rich kid he knew, she was essentially stolen from foster care by her parents and then sex trafficked since she was 8 years old to her adopted father's clients. Sebastians mom learns whats happening and goes to the police with evidence but they question Esme and his mom in front of her parents so she denies the claims on the promise her "parents" will stop pimping her out and let her leave for boarding school. It works for a little while but when she tells her ex she has an STI - he fully beats her and Sebastian catches the tail end and beats him to a pulp. When her parents find out, she's hauled out of school and back into her hellish home. She tells her best friend to tell Sebastian its over and if he comes looking for her, she'll say he raped her. This was all to keep him in school and safe and to protect him but the way she goes about it is rough. Sebastian wont let his obsession go and tracks her down and learns the truth about why his mom was fired and what evidence she had and was sick over not knowing the truth about the girl he loves. How he finds out is so scummy - his sponsor for Rugby was one of the "clients" Esme regularly had to endure when she was just a child (before she got too old). Thankfully, Sebastian comes up with a revenge plan that involves him showing up to one of these parties with every intent to kill. Esme was already in motion to kill these people before herself when Sebastian turns up so when she sees him - she's overjoyed he's come to defend her honor and help her enact her revenge. The Rugby sponsor turns into a vegetable for being beaten so badly, another man loses an ear, her dad is beaten but ends up killing himself before he can be charged and her mother is jailed for trafficking. They burn down the house and waych it burn over the sunrise. Sebastian goes on to play professional rugby and is able to support Esme and their life together while she finishes school.
The ending was really good but I think another 100 pages would have made all the difference. We don't get very many sweet moments at all to establish their true feelings for one another and we know that they dated before they transferred but we get zero insight or flashbacks on how they actually fell in love.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This started as a bully romance but quickly morphed into something else. What bothered me most about that is that there was no real reason that Sebastian stopped tormenting Esme. It was like a switch and then he became her tormenter is what is literally quoted:
"She’s mine. Maybe not forever but in this moment, she’s mine. A shift from tormentor to protector in a split second."
This annoyed me - can't lie. Like we get the first half of Sebastian being ruthless. He shows up at her boarding school after she betrays him and his mother by accusing her of stealing from her family while she was the housekeeper and never tells Sebastian why. Their first reuniting is with dubcon that was actually kind of brutal and even gets secretly filmed and passed around their school, he moves into the dorm next door while he plays out his Rugby scholarship and harrasses her in class but then when he walks in on her self harming, he throws all that resentment out the window and decides he wants to be there for her entirely - even though he still has no idea why she betrayed him. Luckily, the ending of the book saved this - we learn that Esme wasn't the posh rich kid he knew, she was essentially stolen from foster care by her parents and then sex trafficked since she was 8 years old to her adopted father's clients. Sebastians mom learns whats happening and goes to the police with evidence but they question Esme and his mom in front of her parents so she denies the claims on the promise her "parents" will stop pimping her out and let her leave for boarding school. It works for a little while but when she tells her ex she has an STI - he fully beats her and Sebastian catches the tail end and beats him to a pulp. When her parents find out, she's hauled out of school and back into her hellish home. She tells her best friend to tell Sebastian its over and if he comes looking for her, she'll say he raped her. This was all to keep him in school and safe and to protect him but the way she goes about it is rough. Sebastian wont let his obsession go and tracks her down and learns the truth about why his mom was fired and what evidence she had and was sick over not knowing the truth about the girl he loves. How he finds out is so scummy - his sponsor for Rugby was one of the "clients" Esme regularly had to endure when she was just a child (before she got too old). Thankfully, Sebastian comes up with a revenge plan that involves him showing up to one of these parties with every intent to kill. Esme was already in motion to kill these people before herself when Sebastian turns up so when she sees him - she's overjoyed he's come to defend her honor and help her enact her revenge. The Rugby sponsor turns into a vegetable for being beaten so badly, another man loses an ear, her dad is beaten but ends up killing himself before he can be charged and her mother is jailed for trafficking. They burn down the house and waych it burn over the sunrise. Sebastian goes on to play professional rugby and is able to support Esme and their life together while she finishes school.
The ending was really good but I think another 100 pages would have made all the difference. We don't get very many sweet moments at all to establish their true feelings for one another and we know that they dated before they transferred but we get zero insight or flashbacks on how they actually fell in love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2023
I am so glad Layla Simon can make a single worded unique title for her books. I recently reviewed another book and loved the writing style (metaphors, lyrical prose…) so much that I wanted more. Surprise! There’s another two weeks later?
================================================================
The Plot:
===================
Esme decided to break up with her boyfriend of 6 months because, as she stated, the only way he used his tongue was to wag it inside his mouth. Ouch. I immediately thought he talked too much. No wonder there was no chemistry. Yet she blamed herself.
Oops. Then I learned. There was something wrong with her. Whatever she had done in the past, guilt led her to self-destruction. TBH, I can relate. Self-harm comes in many forms. For Esme, alcohol and cutting her thighs left damaging scars, and now she was trying to avert that through means her therapist recommended, including manual stimulation 🥹🥺.
I didn’t expect so much smut so early in the novel. It was TMI too early for me, so I guess I want a bit more slow-burn. On his end, Sebastian had spent the last year searching for her just to wreak his own revenge/hate sex. Despite his lack of wealth, he had gained a scholarship to attend this elite school, and decided not to let her know he was a permanent addition to her life. At least his coping mechanism was in the form of exercise. Once in school, Sebastian realized he really wanted to give his all. His sports scholarship could lead to a lucrative career. And he realized he wanted to keep Esme in his life.
The early non-con rape scene, as described by Esme, seemed more of a consensual act because Esme didn't complain and seemed into it, so I wasn't triggered. Later, Sebastian and Esme evolve into a more normal boyfriend-girlfriend vibe, but her secrets gave me a Stephen King creepy vibe, leaving the tension high.
No matter how hard I want to understand or relate to Esme, her tendency to lie just threw me right out of the novel. She lied to protect people so much that she lied like a reflexive knee jerk, and I didn’t like her. She was forced to leave school, and her lies left Sebastian ““My emotions are a mess of irrevocable love, distrust, hatred” just when he was trying to climb the success ladder.
The ending was really climactic, with an explosion, acts of violence, and secrets revealed. If you want that HEA, don't worry, there is an extended epilogue of happy ending. The climax unbelievable to me but you might like it if you like those mafia romances.
Tropes:
• Enemies to Lovers
• Bully Academy
• Self-mutilation
• Boy saves girl
• Non-con
================================================================
The Plot:
===================
Esme decided to break up with her boyfriend of 6 months because, as she stated, the only way he used his tongue was to wag it inside his mouth. Ouch. I immediately thought he talked too much. No wonder there was no chemistry. Yet she blamed herself.
Oops. Then I learned. There was something wrong with her. Whatever she had done in the past, guilt led her to self-destruction. TBH, I can relate. Self-harm comes in many forms. For Esme, alcohol and cutting her thighs left damaging scars, and now she was trying to avert that through means her therapist recommended, including manual stimulation 🥹🥺.
I didn’t expect so much smut so early in the novel. It was TMI too early for me, so I guess I want a bit more slow-burn. On his end, Sebastian had spent the last year searching for her just to wreak his own revenge/hate sex. Despite his lack of wealth, he had gained a scholarship to attend this elite school, and decided not to let her know he was a permanent addition to her life. At least his coping mechanism was in the form of exercise. Once in school, Sebastian realized he really wanted to give his all. His sports scholarship could lead to a lucrative career. And he realized he wanted to keep Esme in his life.
The early non-con rape scene, as described by Esme, seemed more of a consensual act because Esme didn't complain and seemed into it, so I wasn't triggered. Later, Sebastian and Esme evolve into a more normal boyfriend-girlfriend vibe, but her secrets gave me a Stephen King creepy vibe, leaving the tension high.
No matter how hard I want to understand or relate to Esme, her tendency to lie just threw me right out of the novel. She lied to protect people so much that she lied like a reflexive knee jerk, and I didn’t like her. She was forced to leave school, and her lies left Sebastian ““My emotions are a mess of irrevocable love, distrust, hatred” just when he was trying to climb the success ladder.
The ending was really climactic, with an explosion, acts of violence, and secrets revealed. If you want that HEA, don't worry, there is an extended epilogue of happy ending. The climax unbelievable to me but you might like it if you like those mafia romances.
Tropes:
• Enemies to Lovers
• Bully Academy
• Self-mutilation
• Boy saves girl
• Non-con
September 26, 2023
This is the first book I have read by Layla Simon and let me tell you she just got herself a new fan. The cover of Spoilsport is the reason I decided to read the book in the first place. Yes, Layal had my attention before I even read one page and it remained there for the entirety of the story. I am so impressed with this author and I cannot wait to read another one of her books. The plot for Spoilsport was somewhat similar to other books I have read, but different in so many other ways that it can be considered original. Esme and Sebastian (aka Seb) were wonderful characters and Layla made it impossible not to love them. These two captured my heart and were perfect for one another. Spoilsport was exciting, it was fun, it had lots of action, it had wonderful supporting characters and there was an intense level of passionate moments shared between Esme and Seb. I found it easy to feel a connection with these two allowing me to feel the emotions they experienced throughout the book. Their story was one filled with betrayal, happiness, hate, pain, misery, anger, fear, joy, hope, and an overwhelming amount of love. This definitely added to my over all experience with this book.
Esme has escaped her bully and for the first time in years doesn't have to watch her back. There is no longer a fear of what may be lurking in the dark hallways or around the next corner. It comes with an added bonus of being away from her overbearing parents whom she shares a strained relationship with at best. Yes, a year of freedom and things couldn't be better or at least that is what she thought. Esme's best friend Rowena convinces her to attend a party with her in hopes of running into the new hot student athlete. This is where Esme becomes reacquainted with her nemesis Sebastian. Her world just came crashing down around her and Esme has no idea how she will survive the upcoming school year.
Things aren't always what they seem to be and lies have been made to appear as truths. At face value all the evidence points to Esme being this horrible person and Sebastian is out to make her pay for her transgressions. But, what if they remove the smoke and mirrors? Could it be that Sebastian has it all wrong? Why won't Esme explain why she betrayed him? Does he really know Esme and the life that she has lived? Is it possible to remove the valley between them that keeps them apart? In the end will these two be able to find peace, repair their friendship and possibly find a happily ever after together?
I received a free advanced review copy for this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Esme has escaped her bully and for the first time in years doesn't have to watch her back. There is no longer a fear of what may be lurking in the dark hallways or around the next corner. It comes with an added bonus of being away from her overbearing parents whom she shares a strained relationship with at best. Yes, a year of freedom and things couldn't be better or at least that is what she thought. Esme's best friend Rowena convinces her to attend a party with her in hopes of running into the new hot student athlete. This is where Esme becomes reacquainted with her nemesis Sebastian. Her world just came crashing down around her and Esme has no idea how she will survive the upcoming school year.
Things aren't always what they seem to be and lies have been made to appear as truths. At face value all the evidence points to Esme being this horrible person and Sebastian is out to make her pay for her transgressions. But, what if they remove the smoke and mirrors? Could it be that Sebastian has it all wrong? Why won't Esme explain why she betrayed him? Does he really know Esme and the life that she has lived? Is it possible to remove the valley between them that keeps them apart? In the end will these two be able to find peace, repair their friendship and possibly find a happily ever after together?
I received a free advanced review copy for this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2023
Spoilsport starts with us meeting Esme at a new school. She's been here a while now, but we know that she has been through something. She's trying to deal with things and work through them, but then her tormenter, Sebastian, arrives, and it dredges up the past. It does sound as though she did have a rough time after whatever happened with bullying that saw her trying to ease the pain in ways that she shouldn't.
Kayla does well keeping us guessing and feeding us bits of information in the hopes we can piece together what happened. In the beginning, I didn't really connect with Esme's character. I did feel more sorry for Sebastian. He comes across as an angry boy, dealt a crappy hand, that had his life turned upside down by whatever Esme did.
Once Sebastian gets a taste of what he might be able to accomplish at this school, he gives up the relentless bullying of Esme. They become closer, and he's so attentive and caring. Sebastian wants to do what he can to ensure he can have a better life and he cares for Esme.
Then there are a series of events that bring to light a tale so shocking that you definitely won't guess what it is. Please be mindful of your triggers. When Seb finds out he wants to do anything, he can do the right thing. Slowly but surely, the pieces of the puzzle start coming together, and the story is told in such a way that it makes your heart ache. Everything is interconnected, and once that cat is out of the bag, then it is going to cause a ripple effect that can change the course of so many lives.
There are some tough decisions that need to be made, and there is strength needed to be able to get through those decisions. Kids want to please the people they call parents so much that they will do anything.
Really well written story, and I enjoyed how much both characters developed. I warmed more to Esme and enjoyed watching her get stronger and stand up for herself. Makes you wonder about how much actually goes on where rich people are concerned that we don't know about simply because they can pay to make it go away.
I would definitely recommend this book, as I said earlier, there are some theme's in here that people might not feel comfortable with, so fair warning, if you can handle it however, it really is a book to add to your TBR list
Kayla does well keeping us guessing and feeding us bits of information in the hopes we can piece together what happened. In the beginning, I didn't really connect with Esme's character. I did feel more sorry for Sebastian. He comes across as an angry boy, dealt a crappy hand, that had his life turned upside down by whatever Esme did.
Once Sebastian gets a taste of what he might be able to accomplish at this school, he gives up the relentless bullying of Esme. They become closer, and he's so attentive and caring. Sebastian wants to do what he can to ensure he can have a better life and he cares for Esme.
Then there are a series of events that bring to light a tale so shocking that you definitely won't guess what it is. Please be mindful of your triggers. When Seb finds out he wants to do anything, he can do the right thing. Slowly but surely, the pieces of the puzzle start coming together, and the story is told in such a way that it makes your heart ache. Everything is interconnected, and once that cat is out of the bag, then it is going to cause a ripple effect that can change the course of so many lives.
There are some tough decisions that need to be made, and there is strength needed to be able to get through those decisions. Kids want to please the people they call parents so much that they will do anything.
Really well written story, and I enjoyed how much both characters developed. I warmed more to Esme and enjoyed watching her get stronger and stand up for herself. Makes you wonder about how much actually goes on where rich people are concerned that we don't know about simply because they can pay to make it go away.
I would definitely recommend this book, as I said earlier, there are some theme's in here that people might not feel comfortable with, so fair warning, if you can handle it however, it really is a book to add to your TBR list
March 5, 2024
Spoilsport starts with us meeting Esme at a new school. She's been here a while now, but we know that she has been through something. She's trying to deal with things and work through them, but then her tormenter, Sebastian, arrives, and it dredges up the past. It does sound as though she did have a rough time after whatever happened with bullying that saw her trying to ease the pain in ways that she shouldn't.
Kayla does well keeping us guessing and feeding us bits of information in the hopes we can piece together what happened. In the beginning, I didn't really connect with Esme's character. I did feel more sorry for Sebastian. He comes across as an angry boy, dealt a crappy hand, that had his life turned upside down by whatever Esme did.
Once Sebastian gets a taste of what he might be able to accomplish at this school, he gives up the relentless bullying of Esme. They become closer, and he's so attentive and caring. Sebastian wants to do what he can to ensure he can have a better life and he cares for Esme.
Then there are a series of events that bring to light a tale so shocking that you definitely won't guess what it is. Please be mindful of your triggers. When Seb finds out he wants to do anything, he can do the right thing. Slowly but surely, the pieces of the puzzle start coming together, and the story is told in such a way that it makes your heart ache. Everything is interconnected, and once that cat is out of the bag, then it is going to cause a ripple effect that can change the course of so many lives.
There are some tough decisions that need to be made, and there is strength needed to be able to get through those decisions. Kids want to please the people they call parents so much that they will do anything.
Really well written story, and I enjoyed how much both characters developed. I warmed more to Esme and enjoyed watching her get stronger and stand up for herself. Makes you wonder about how much actually goes on where rich people are concerned that we don't know about simply because they can pay to make it go away.
I would definitely recommend this book, as I said earlier, there are some theme's in here that people might not feel comfortable with, so fair warning, if you can handle it however, it really is a book to add to your TBR list
Kayla does well keeping us guessing and feeding us bits of information in the hopes we can piece together what happened. In the beginning, I didn't really connect with Esme's character. I did feel more sorry for Sebastian. He comes across as an angry boy, dealt a crappy hand, that had his life turned upside down by whatever Esme did.
Once Sebastian gets a taste of what he might be able to accomplish at this school, he gives up the relentless bullying of Esme. They become closer, and he's so attentive and caring. Sebastian wants to do what he can to ensure he can have a better life and he cares for Esme.
Then there are a series of events that bring to light a tale so shocking that you definitely won't guess what it is. Please be mindful of your triggers. When Seb finds out he wants to do anything, he can do the right thing. Slowly but surely, the pieces of the puzzle start coming together, and the story is told in such a way that it makes your heart ache. Everything is interconnected, and once that cat is out of the bag, then it is going to cause a ripple effect that can change the course of so many lives.
There are some tough decisions that need to be made, and there is strength needed to be able to get through those decisions. Kids want to please the people they call parents so much that they will do anything.
Really well written story, and I enjoyed how much both characters developed. I warmed more to Esme and enjoyed watching her get stronger and stand up for herself. Makes you wonder about how much actually goes on where rich people are concerned that we don't know about simply because they can pay to make it go away.
I would definitely recommend this book, as I said earlier, there are some theme's in here that people might not feel comfortable with, so fair warning, if you can handle it however, it really is a book to add to your TBR list
June 3, 2023
"There isn't a single thing about this girl that I don't enjoy, even my unending hatred of her."
Wow... first off, when you select this book know your triggers and KNOW THEM WELL. This book was DARK, even for me. But, man did it warm my dark little heart.
This book satisfied A LOT of my kinks. The way these two have just naturally fallen into a D/s dynamic... *chef's kiss*
If you are IN the lifestyle or have an understanding of the lifestyle, this book will definitely resonate with you. While prevalent, the kinks are seamlessly woven into the story so that unless you were privy to that world you would not really notice what you were witnessing.
"And what's so bad about home?"
Her eyes widen as they stare down at me, so vulnerable I'm scared to move in case I frighten her away. Then her posture softens, her body swaying gently towards me. "You're not there."
When I tell you this book made me EMOTIONAL.... I cannot recall the last time I cried so much while being equally satisfied.
"Gagging and choking like you don't love it"
The dirty talk.... TOP F*N NOTCH. Seb is a man I could not have imagined in my wildest dreams.
"You come to me whenever you want, and I'll be what you need me to be when you get there."
The dizzying amount of push and pull between Esme and Seb had me literally nauseous. So many heart-breaking decisions made by both of them, I wanted to reach into this book and shake the f* out of both of them.
The utter chaos of the book at the end read like a movie, I could vividly visualize everything. My dark little heart was SINGING.
This was my first book by this author, but, it will definitely not be my last.
Wow... first off, when you select this book know your triggers and KNOW THEM WELL. This book was DARK, even for me. But, man did it warm my dark little heart.
This book satisfied A LOT of my kinks. The way these two have just naturally fallen into a D/s dynamic... *chef's kiss*
If you are IN the lifestyle or have an understanding of the lifestyle, this book will definitely resonate with you. While prevalent, the kinks are seamlessly woven into the story so that unless you were privy to that world you would not really notice what you were witnessing.
"And what's so bad about home?"
Her eyes widen as they stare down at me, so vulnerable I'm scared to move in case I frighten her away. Then her posture softens, her body swaying gently towards me. "You're not there."
When I tell you this book made me EMOTIONAL.... I cannot recall the last time I cried so much while being equally satisfied.
"Gagging and choking like you don't love it"
The dirty talk.... TOP F*N NOTCH. Seb is a man I could not have imagined in my wildest dreams.
"You come to me whenever you want, and I'll be what you need me to be when you get there."
The dizzying amount of push and pull between Esme and Seb had me literally nauseous. So many heart-breaking decisions made by both of them, I wanted to reach into this book and shake the f* out of both of them.
The utter chaos of the book at the end read like a movie, I could vividly visualize everything. My dark little heart was SINGING.
This was my first book by this author, but, it will definitely not be my last.
April 25, 2023
No one writes a dark bullying tale better than Layla Simon. I have to admit being a fan girl and would sign up to read a shopping list if she had authored it.
This is a troublesome and highly emotional book with MANY triggers so please check them out before attempting to read.
The 2 main characters here - Esme and Seb - have a long, long history. We learn early on that their backstory caused such a seismic rupture that these once the closest of friends(?) are now entangled in a push and pull web that spirals into a hell of their own making.
Esme betrayed Seb in the worst of ways and he is hell bent on retribution to the point of obsession. Their physical attraction made all the more sinister by their hatred.
Set in a fictional high school, Seb - born on the wrong side of the tracks - is now on course to become their star rugby player with the potential of a glittering future ahead of him. That is unless his thirst for revenge doesn't shatter his world first.
As always the writing is exemplary. The dialogue sharp. The heat unbearably intimate.
This is not my favourite of her books however, I found myself becoming increasingly frustrated that Esme's story of betrayal and truth came so late in the book, that I found myself screaming 'whatever it is just tell him!'
Regardless, as all her books, when the horrors are revealed and the final bomb is dropped you are left breathless.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a troublesome and highly emotional book with MANY triggers so please check them out before attempting to read.
The 2 main characters here - Esme and Seb - have a long, long history. We learn early on that their backstory caused such a seismic rupture that these once the closest of friends(?) are now entangled in a push and pull web that spirals into a hell of their own making.
Esme betrayed Seb in the worst of ways and he is hell bent on retribution to the point of obsession. Their physical attraction made all the more sinister by their hatred.
Set in a fictional high school, Seb - born on the wrong side of the tracks - is now on course to become their star rugby player with the potential of a glittering future ahead of him. That is unless his thirst for revenge doesn't shatter his world first.
As always the writing is exemplary. The dialogue sharp. The heat unbearably intimate.
This is not my favourite of her books however, I found myself becoming increasingly frustrated that Esme's story of betrayal and truth came so late in the book, that I found myself screaming 'whatever it is just tell him!'
Regardless, as all her books, when the horrors are revealed and the final bomb is dropped you are left breathless.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 24, 2023
Seb and Esme had a interesting love hate relationship where you could tell they didn't truly hate each other. Especially while Seb was supposed to be tormenting her and getting payback. And although I don't agree with and condone bullying I could understand his anger and frustration with her. I had a hard time figuring out if I liked Esme myself, I figured something had to have been going on, but I still didn't like that her go to idea and action to come out on top of a situation was to pass the blame even if it was a lie. By no means was she some super sweet innocent character, but she wasn't a bad person she just had bad coping techniques and thinking. Seb, despite the things he did was a good guy who had every right in my opinion to feel angry with Esme and her actions, but his heart wasn't completely into making her miserable and he still had a conscience. I knew something deeper had to be going on with Esme but wasn't expecting what it was. I would have liked a extended epilogue a few years later. To see if they started a family, what happened with the rest of the people involved with what happened to her, where see is in his career and what Esme is doing, because honestly I don't remember her knowing what she wanted to study. Also did Rowena finally find her guy, she's a awesome friend and character and deserves her hea. Good story.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
April 26, 2023
I absolutely enjoyed the previous dark high school standalone book I read from this author so there was no hesitation with wanting to read this story. I wish I could say that I enjoyed this book as much as I did the previous book, but it just didn't turn out that way. The main characters Sebastian and Esme have bad history between them, and Seb has a score to settle. I love a good dark romance, but I feel that when it came to this story the author didn't give me enough time to connect with the main characters before hitting me with everything. Right off the bat it was a bit too much too soon. Every part of this story felt hectic and there was really no ease of anything until the very end of the story. For me, it's hard to enjoy a story if I can't connect with or even enjoy the characters and I feel like this story didn't give me a chance to do that. The only likable character for me was Rowena, as she brought a little light into the story and was a good friend to Esme. I hated was Esme's "parents" did to her and they need to be put under the jail. I wish we got to see what happened to them after the new conference Esme did. This story is a one-time read for me, but I put it at 3 stars because it wasn't a terrible story, it just isn't the story for me, and I honestly feel that it doesn't deserve less than 3 stars.
May 9, 2023
Heat: 3/5
Esme is getting a fresh start at Kingswood College - away from her childhood friend turned lover turned bully and the “scandal” that started it all. She attends a party with her friend, Rowena, only to be corned by her bully in a quiet dark corner. Seb is inescapable, and he’s ready for vengeance.
This book had me on the edge of my seat for days. Not only do I love bully romance, but then Layla Simon added in a hint of mystery with a dash of unbridled violence and a pinch of angst. I loved it all. This couple was soooo toxic - I couldn’t get enough. Seb’s energy crackled with hateful lust, pain, and certain revenge. Esme bled of panicked anxiety, helplessness and hopelessness. It broke my heart to feel how much Esme hated herself and not understand why. I wanted so badly to comfort her and pull out all the secrets festering in her wounds.
I loved watching the connection between Seb and Esme burn bright and fierce. Their passion for each other was incredibly hot to witness - the spice was goooood. I was really nervous about a third act breakup - Layla not only executed it well but swerved in a direction that made my eyes bug out. I could not put down the book. Well played and well done!
Esme is getting a fresh start at Kingswood College - away from her childhood friend turned lover turned bully and the “scandal” that started it all. She attends a party with her friend, Rowena, only to be corned by her bully in a quiet dark corner. Seb is inescapable, and he’s ready for vengeance.
This book had me on the edge of my seat for days. Not only do I love bully romance, but then Layla Simon added in a hint of mystery with a dash of unbridled violence and a pinch of angst. I loved it all. This couple was soooo toxic - I couldn’t get enough. Seb’s energy crackled with hateful lust, pain, and certain revenge. Esme bled of panicked anxiety, helplessness and hopelessness. It broke my heart to feel how much Esme hated herself and not understand why. I wanted so badly to comfort her and pull out all the secrets festering in her wounds.
I loved watching the connection between Seb and Esme burn bright and fierce. Their passion for each other was incredibly hot to witness - the spice was goooood. I was really nervous about a third act breakup - Layla not only executed it well but swerved in a direction that made my eyes bug out. I could not put down the book. Well played and well done!
May 3, 2023
This book was unexpected for me. Full of secrets that we weren’t privy to until the end but that suddenly made so much sense. The author took us on a journey with Seb the main male character because as things became clearer for the reader they became clearer for him too and that made the book all the more better. Was he sweet and innocent in everything? Absolutely not. His earlier judgements and actions towards Esme were horrible but his realisation of his mistakes and the changes he makes showed real growth.
Told in dual POV describing both the thoughts and feelings of both characters. In Esme’s case I found the POV really helped show her strength that she didn’t realise she had as she tried to stop her world from spiralling and crashing down around her.
This book covers some really tough topics but I thought it was well written and I enjoyed the push and pull of the relationship between Seb and Esme. The sideline characters added just a touch of humour and fun which with some dark and heavy topics was definitely welcomed.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Told in dual POV describing both the thoughts and feelings of both characters. In Esme’s case I found the POV really helped show her strength that she didn’t realise she had as she tried to stop her world from spiralling and crashing down around her.
This book covers some really tough topics but I thought it was well written and I enjoyed the push and pull of the relationship between Seb and Esme. The sideline characters added just a touch of humour and fun which with some dark and heavy topics was definitely welcomed.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2023
Okay so this is ny first book of Layla Simon and boooyyy can she WRITE.
Because I came for the smut, stayed for the plot. And that speaks VOLUMES for a highschool bully romance.
At first I thought it would be like any other high school bully drama with a dark past thrown in just for shits and giggles and have no real depth apart from bunch of teenagers trying to play adult in the bubble of highschool but Nope. I was wrong.
Layla Simon writes a pretty solid story, pretty solid characters and pretty SOLID sex scenes, although they bordered a lot on sadomasochism which I am not a fan of or get turned on from, but I couldn't put it down. I was intrigued by the writing and the way she describes each inner emotions and monologues. They're not repetitive boring ornamented shit but real feelings described with cared precision.
I guess my own vocabulary increased after reading this. I think English is good because the writer is from New Zealand. American authors need to take some notes on how to use words to actually mean than fill pages.
Will surely check out other books from this author.
Because I came for the smut, stayed for the plot. And that speaks VOLUMES for a highschool bully romance.
At first I thought it would be like any other high school bully drama with a dark past thrown in just for shits and giggles and have no real depth apart from bunch of teenagers trying to play adult in the bubble of highschool but Nope. I was wrong.
Layla Simon writes a pretty solid story, pretty solid characters and pretty SOLID sex scenes, although they bordered a lot on sadomasochism which I am not a fan of or get turned on from, but I couldn't put it down. I was intrigued by the writing and the way she describes each inner emotions and monologues. They're not repetitive boring ornamented shit but real feelings described with cared precision.
I guess my own vocabulary increased after reading this. I think English is good because the writer is from New Zealand. American authors need to take some notes on how to use words to actually mean than fill pages.
Will surely check out other books from this author.
May 3, 2023
This is a dark, high school, bully romance. It definitely has trigger warnings of all kinds and subject matters. Look at the novel specifically if there are subjects you want to avoid because if I tell you it will ruin this novel. This novel is about Esme and Sebastain. Esme is the rich girl and Sebastain is the poor boy from the wrong side of the tracks. You think you know why Sebastain bullied and continues to bully Esme. Sebastain is obsessed with Esme and tracks her down at her new school. Esme is the person that Sebastain loves to hate. The true "full" story isn't revealed until the end of the novel, of course, and it's far more disturbing than I originally thought. I think there were some clues about what was really going on along the way. There are definitely some spicy scenes 🦉. The ending will leave you satisfied🏏. If you like darker, bully romances, give this one a try. It also has a little bit of a sports vibe because Sebastain plays rugby.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2023
Esme has left town in order to leave her bully behind. Starting over in a new high schooI, a boarding school, she is making new friends and focusing on her studies. Things are looking up, until there is a new student on a rugby scholarship who happens to be the very bully she was escaping.
Seb is obsessed with getting his revenge on Esme who has not only ruined his repuation, but also his mother's. Esme and Seb's passionate dynamic starts with hatred but ends with something else. A past of misunderstanding leads to a rescue plan, but which one needs rescuing?
I definitely recommend checking out the trigger warnings before starting this book because it is dark, violent, and yet hopeful. It was fast-paced and I found myself up very late at night because I simply had to know what happens next. The writing is masterfully layered and I found myself rooting for the crimes that would end up being committed. It is dark and the only criticism I would have is that it reads more like a college romance than a high school one. That aside, it is a great romance with deep feelings and difficult challenges to overcome.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Seb is obsessed with getting his revenge on Esme who has not only ruined his repuation, but also his mother's. Esme and Seb's passionate dynamic starts with hatred but ends with something else. A past of misunderstanding leads to a rescue plan, but which one needs rescuing?
I definitely recommend checking out the trigger warnings before starting this book because it is dark, violent, and yet hopeful. It was fast-paced and I found myself up very late at night because I simply had to know what happens next. The writing is masterfully layered and I found myself rooting for the crimes that would end up being committed. It is dark and the only criticism I would have is that it reads more like a college romance than a high school one. That aside, it is a great romance with deep feelings and difficult challenges to overcome.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 10, 2023
Meh
I will preface by saying that I don't much like most bully romances because it feels like we are encouraging abuse. Having said that I will read the occasional soft ones. So I took a chance on this one.
My issues with this however had little to do with the bullying aspect but rather the plot holes. There is a big secret the FMC holds which, unfortunately, I guessed 30% into the book. I also didn't really understand the MMCs motivations or why he was so obsessed with the FMC. The ending was also rushed, fantastical, not properly explained and did not do justice to the real issues brought up in the book. The very real trauma was glossed over and used as a plot point (which I hate). There was also fetishizing of self harm which I also really object to. I felt like the author took some serious heavy subjects and turned them into a joke and background for a romance when they should've been front and center.
On the positive side, it was well written.
There is an appropriate trigger warning and non-consensual sex.
I will preface by saying that I don't much like most bully romances because it feels like we are encouraging abuse. Having said that I will read the occasional soft ones. So I took a chance on this one.
My issues with this however had little to do with the bullying aspect but rather the plot holes. There is a big secret the FMC holds which, unfortunately, I guessed 30% into the book. I also didn't really understand the MMCs motivations or why he was so obsessed with the FMC. The ending was also rushed, fantastical, not properly explained and did not do justice to the real issues brought up in the book. The very real trauma was glossed over and used as a plot point (which I hate). There was also fetishizing of self harm which I also really object to. I felt like the author took some serious heavy subjects and turned them into a joke and background for a romance when they should've been front and center.
On the positive side, it was well written.
There is an appropriate trigger warning and non-consensual sex.
November 8, 2023
Dark Deeds and forgotten Bully's
Esme Black thought all her troubles were behind her the Bully from her past forgotten but Sébastien won't be forgotten he's come to Kingswood Academy how did her past catch up to her so soon. Sébastien has worked hard to earn the scholarship that has brought him to the girl he loves to hate she's wronged him and his mother she needs to pay but Séb doesn't understand his punishment is not nearly as bad as the real monsters in her life Esme knows what real monsters are under her bed hidden in her closet so Sébastien is really her savior not her punishment. This is not a love story it's a story about survival.
I liked this book but the beginning was a little hard ti follow because it starts with Esme already away from her bully that just shows up without the history to understand the plot but it eventually evens out and the author shows just how evil people can be there are definitely triggers here abuse,depression,cutting,and rape but not by the male MC to the Female MC it all has to do with Esme past.
Esme Black thought all her troubles were behind her the Bully from her past forgotten but Sébastien won't be forgotten he's come to Kingswood Academy how did her past catch up to her so soon. Sébastien has worked hard to earn the scholarship that has brought him to the girl he loves to hate she's wronged him and his mother she needs to pay but Séb doesn't understand his punishment is not nearly as bad as the real monsters in her life Esme knows what real monsters are under her bed hidden in her closet so Sébastien is really her savior not her punishment. This is not a love story it's a story about survival.
I liked this book but the beginning was a little hard ti follow because it starts with Esme already away from her bully that just shows up without the history to understand the plot but it eventually evens out and the author shows just how evil people can be there are definitely triggers here abuse,depression,cutting,and rape but not by the male MC to the Female MC it all has to do with Esme past.
May 6, 2023
This story was a gripping read and I enjoyed how Layla Simon portrayed the sensitive topics at hand. It's not for the faint-hearted, nonetheless, it was beautifully written and added a different dynamic to this plot.
I was captivated by Esme and Seb's relationship and how it transited from a tormented, dark place to a blossoming, heart-warning partnership.
They're two broken souls that are tortured and the tension between them is palpable throughout until something shifts. I was glued to my seat and different feelings were brought out from me while devouring this special plot. This added an extra layer to me as I'm always on the lookout for thrilling reads.
In addition, the flow of the book was exciting and packed with twists and turns.
For all of these reasons, I recommend this dark story as it's a terrific one!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was captivated by Esme and Seb's relationship and how it transited from a tormented, dark place to a blossoming, heart-warning partnership.
They're two broken souls that are tortured and the tension between them is palpable throughout until something shifts. I was glued to my seat and different feelings were brought out from me while devouring this special plot. This added an extra layer to me as I'm always on the lookout for thrilling reads.
In addition, the flow of the book was exciting and packed with twists and turns.
For all of these reasons, I recommend this dark story as it's a terrific one!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2023
Emotional, Steamy and dark
My rating: 5
Tropes: Friends/Enemies to lovers - Bully
Heat: 8/10
Emotion 8/10
Story: 7/10
Characters: 7/10
Interest: 8/10
POV: Dual
No Cheating
No Cliffhanger
There are triggers
"Spoilsport" is a story that kept me reading all along, i actually couldn't put it down (It's been a long time since a book did this to me LOL!).
The plot was good with many loose ends throughout it, making you want to see how everything will come together (even though a little predictable from the hints in there).
It was angsty, interesting, emotional, hot and a little dark for me at some points.
Overall, i really enjoyed it, the writing was good, there was depth in the characters and the end wraps everything up (Even if a little OTT).
This was my second book from the author and i will definitely read more, even if there is too much angst for me.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My rating: 5
Tropes: Friends/Enemies to lovers - Bully
Heat: 8/10
Emotion 8/10
Story: 7/10
Characters: 7/10
Interest: 8/10
POV: Dual
No Cheating
No Cliffhanger
There are triggers
"Spoilsport" is a story that kept me reading all along, i actually couldn't put it down (It's been a long time since a book did this to me LOL!).
The plot was good with many loose ends throughout it, making you want to see how everything will come together (even though a little predictable from the hints in there).
It was angsty, interesting, emotional, hot and a little dark for me at some points.
Overall, i really enjoyed it, the writing was good, there was depth in the characters and the end wraps everything up (Even if a little OTT).
This was my second book from the author and i will definitely read more, even if there is too much angst for me.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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