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Princes of Ravenlake Academy #1
Cruel Prep
Ravenlake Prep is hell on earth... and Finn Foster is my personal devil.
I can’t even remember the night “The Incident” happened.
The doctors said I was concussed.
The cops said I was a liar.
My classmates said I was a skank.
All I know is this:
I’m now trapped at Ravenlake Prep with a boy who’s determined to ruin my life…
And I don’t even know why.
Finn Foster is a monster, plain and simple.
Cruel. Rich. Devastatingly handsome.
His family owns this town.
That means he can get away with destroying anything he wants.
Including me.
Because I have dark secrets trapped somewhere in my broken brain.
And Finn will do anything it takes to keep them there.
CRUEL PREP is a full-length high school bully romance and Book 1 in the Princes of Ravenlake Academy trilogy.
The Princes of Ravenlake Academy is a series of standalones that all take place at the infamously cruel Ravenlake Preparatory Academy.
You can read any of the books as standalones, but they work best when read in order.
Book 1, CRUEL PREP, is Finn and Lily’s story.
Book 2, CRUEL ACADEMY, is Caleb and Haley’s story.
Book 3, CRUEL ELITE, is Noah and Penny’s story.
I can’t even remember the night “The Incident” happened.
The doctors said I was concussed.
The cops said I was a liar.
My classmates said I was a skank.
All I know is this:
I’m now trapped at Ravenlake Prep with a boy who’s determined to ruin my life…
And I don’t even know why.
Finn Foster is a monster, plain and simple.
Cruel. Rich. Devastatingly handsome.
His family owns this town.
That means he can get away with destroying anything he wants.
Including me.
Because I have dark secrets trapped somewhere in my broken brain.
And Finn will do anything it takes to keep them there.
CRUEL PREP is a full-length high school bully romance and Book 1 in the Princes of Ravenlake Academy trilogy.
The Princes of Ravenlake Academy is a series of standalones that all take place at the infamously cruel Ravenlake Preparatory Academy.
You can read any of the books as standalones, but they work best when read in order.
Book 1, CRUEL PREP, is Finn and Lily’s story.
Book 2, CRUEL ACADEMY, is Caleb and Haley’s story.
Book 3, CRUEL ELITE, is Noah and Penny’s story.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
851 people are currently reading
1055 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Fox
198 books4,847 followersNicole Fox writes smart, sexy mafia romance novels. She is a crazy cat lady in her late 30s with a coffee addiction, an overactive imagination, and a husband who somehow puts up with her impulsive need to keep buying new plants for their house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
January 1, 2021
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Bully Romance (High School)
Story: 3/ 5
Sexual: GOOD
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Male: Possessive, Obsessive & Popular
Series: Book 1
Pages: location 4209
Kindle Unlimited: N/A Yet
This book for me was an ok read. It was not bad, and it wasn’t great, and this is based on my personal taste.
Physically, I think Finn’s and Lily’s connection were really good, there is no denying that. With Finn, I personally think he was nice towards Lily for a bully. He was more obsess and possessive over her and this felt more about a big secret than revenge. The author definitely kept us in the dark for most of the book without indicating how Finn and Lilly are connected with this secret. However, once everything came to light, the climax became interesting.
Secondary characters. I would have loved more insight into Finn’s friends. We were introduced to them, and they were involved, but didn’t get a sense or tease of who they were individually throughout the story that would briefly introduce you with what’s to come for the next book. I only get the sense that Caleb is always down for a fight. Also, I would have loved to have a balance and see Lily with at least one friend.
Overall, it’s not bad, but it’s not great either. I really enjoyed the physical chemistry between Finn and Lily as it had a bit of a Dom / sub vibe thrown in.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s definitely about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the stories you read. I know we all have different opinions and taste with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Style: Dark Bully Romance (High School)
Story: 3/ 5
Sexual: GOOD
Enjoyment: 3.5/5
Male: Possessive, Obsessive & Popular
Series: Book 1
Pages: location 4209
Kindle Unlimited: N/A Yet
This book for me was an ok read. It was not bad, and it wasn’t great, and this is based on my personal taste.
Physically, I think Finn’s and Lily’s connection were really good, there is no denying that. With Finn, I personally think he was nice towards Lily for a bully. He was more obsess and possessive over her and this felt more about a big secret than revenge. The author definitely kept us in the dark for most of the book without indicating how Finn and Lilly are connected with this secret. However, once everything came to light, the climax became interesting.
Secondary characters. I would have loved more insight into Finn’s friends. We were introduced to them, and they were involved, but didn’t get a sense or tease of who they were individually throughout the story that would briefly introduce you with what’s to come for the next book. I only get the sense that Caleb is always down for a fight. Also, I would have loved to have a balance and see Lily with at least one friend.
Overall, it’s not bad, but it’s not great either. I really enjoyed the physical chemistry between Finn and Lily as it had a bit of a Dom / sub vibe thrown in.
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s definitely about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the stories you read. I know we all have different opinions and taste with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 27, 2021
I was completely hooked throughout, it was such an enthralling and intriguing story that was full of hate, secrets and lies, as well as great characters who were not only entertaining and engaging, but bursting with chemistry.
January 3, 2021
Wow...... I found myself completely speechless by the end of this book! I feel like we get so much in this book being the first in the series. And I didn’t feel like it was rushed in anyway which I loved. This book is more the just a bully romance there was a unique back story and it kept me guessing till the very end. I felt like I was sitting on the edge of my seat the entire book. I can’t wait to read the next book
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2021
Not sure how I feel about this book. The writing is excellent but not sure about the storyline?? These are suppose to be teenagers and not sure if I’d wish some of the things could happen with young people. Maybe I’m naive?? I’d be more accepting for adults but not sure about teenagers?
March 31, 2021
Another Bully Romance with all the Usual Suspects and Situations
Will I EVER read a bully/romance that doesn’t centre around a group of privileged a....holes attending a private school?
Where the central male character isn’t all high cheek bones, and jawlines that could cut glass?
Will I ever read a BR where the central female lead isn’t a compliant puddle of goo not in control of her own body, who makes stupid, obvious mistakes you can see a mile coming.?
Clearly NOT! as this seems to be the template for every BR book EVERY WRITTEN!
SO.
Here we go again.
We have -
Finn leader of the Golden Boys privileged, entitled, alpha a....holes.
Lily DeVry, - the girl who is a fish- out -of -water, a scholarship kid, who’s mom is part of the janitorial staff in this new school, Ravenlake Prep,
A school where only the elite of the elite attend.
And where Finn and his cohorts RULE
Lily is a big wimp.
I hate it when the female lead characters all “ oh! , I should but I can’t help myself.
He’s just SOOOO good looking”
Its precisely this reason I didn’t care what happened to Lily .
And! It bugged me how much Finn (the male lead) started to wimp out.
Of course the author always has to bring in troubled family backgrounds so we empathise with the bullies, as to explain their behaviour.
In Finns case - an overbearing, controlling father.
The deaths of his mother and sister
And
In Lily’s case it’s her Dad.
So now her and Finn can bond over both their losses ..Double Ugh!
This is also another BR storyline “go to” ...Ugh!
I found this book extremely frustrating to read as I disliked Lily.
She excused Finn for all his awful behaviour because they had “chemistry” and, she found him to be Soooo. HOT.
That’s when she wasn’t being a needy, panting, horny B for the other 70% of this story.
She wasn’t being sexually assertive. She was being manipulated and subservient...AND enjoying it,
From these moments on the story unfolds pretty much as you would predict, right up to the very, VERY obvious last chapters drama.
When I read Bully romances, I always feel cheated as the authors rush towards the end, tying up all the loose stories.
Then we find out that the bully isn’t really a bully at ALL.
He’s just has issued from a family tragedy, and an F’d up father.
What a cop out this book was.
I wanted Lily to walk away and not be such a forgiving doormat to the completely wimped out Finn.
I didn’t want Finn to win her back at the end.
Why?
Because it’s BS! Life isn’t like that
Grow a spin BR novelists and give us more gritty, realistic endings.
**
And I won’t be reading the other books in this series
Will I EVER read a bully/romance that doesn’t centre around a group of privileged a....holes attending a private school?
Where the central male character isn’t all high cheek bones, and jawlines that could cut glass?
Will I ever read a BR where the central female lead isn’t a compliant puddle of goo not in control of her own body, who makes stupid, obvious mistakes you can see a mile coming.?
Clearly NOT! as this seems to be the template for every BR book EVERY WRITTEN!
SO.
Here we go again.
We have -
Finn leader of the Golden Boys privileged, entitled, alpha a....holes.
Lily DeVry, - the girl who is a fish- out -of -water, a scholarship kid, who’s mom is part of the janitorial staff in this new school, Ravenlake Prep,
A school where only the elite of the elite attend.
And where Finn and his cohorts RULE
Lily is a big wimp.
I hate it when the female lead characters all “ oh! , I should but I can’t help myself.
He’s just SOOOO good looking”
Its precisely this reason I didn’t care what happened to Lily .
And! It bugged me how much Finn (the male lead) started to wimp out.
Of course the author always has to bring in troubled family backgrounds so we empathise with the bullies, as to explain their behaviour.
In Finns case - an overbearing, controlling father.
The deaths of his mother and sister
And
In Lily’s case it’s her Dad.
So now her and Finn can bond over both their losses ..Double Ugh!
This is also another BR storyline “go to” ...Ugh!
I found this book extremely frustrating to read as I disliked Lily.
She excused Finn for all his awful behaviour because they had “chemistry” and, she found him to be Soooo. HOT.
That’s when she wasn’t being a needy, panting, horny B for the other 70% of this story.
She wasn’t being sexually assertive. She was being manipulated and subservient...AND enjoying it,
From these moments on the story unfolds pretty much as you would predict, right up to the very, VERY obvious last chapters drama.
When I read Bully romances, I always feel cheated as the authors rush towards the end, tying up all the loose stories.
Then we find out that the bully isn’t really a bully at ALL.
He’s just has issued from a family tragedy, and an F’d up father.
What a cop out this book was.
I wanted Lily to walk away and not be such a forgiving doormat to the completely wimped out Finn.
I didn’t want Finn to win her back at the end.
Why?
Because it’s BS! Life isn’t like that
Grow a spin BR novelists and give us more gritty, realistic endings.
**
And I won’t be reading the other books in this series
January 17, 2022
annoyed. annoyed. annoyed.
Example A:
there’s the REALLY good bully romances that have depth and genuine reasons to why character A is feeling a certain way to character B. Where Character B is trying to grovel or simply ignore Character A because they have no choice at that point so that leads Character A having to realize that they need to get there shit together.
AND THEN…..
Example B:
there’s the really BAD bully romances that are dumb, cliche, and annoy the shit out of me. Where Character A is bullying Character B for a dumb reason, no reason at all, or simply taking it to far. Where Character B has no brains so what they think is LOVE they are mistaking for a dick that is not even good.
Authors need to learn that at this point in the game, if you want to write a bully romance…you need something that has depth and something that could really make the readers feel BOTH of the characters sides. They need to realize that just making the characters have sex is not enough to be able to say that those characters are in love because they aren’t. These authors need to realize that at this point you need something original because the same theme that has been rewritten a bunch of times for the past years is old and will give you an automatic 1 star.
HELLO it’s 2022…..what are y’all doing? get your shit together, you guys are losing the last of the peeps who would genuinely read bully romances for fun.
Example A:
there’s the REALLY good bully romances that have depth and genuine reasons to why character A is feeling a certain way to character B. Where Character B is trying to grovel or simply ignore Character A because they have no choice at that point so that leads Character A having to realize that they need to get there shit together.
AND THEN…..
Example B:
there’s the really BAD bully romances that are dumb, cliche, and annoy the shit out of me. Where Character A is bullying Character B for a dumb reason, no reason at all, or simply taking it to far. Where Character B has no brains so what they think is LOVE they are mistaking for a dick that is not even good.
Authors need to learn that at this point in the game, if you want to write a bully romance…you need something that has depth and something that could really make the readers feel BOTH of the characters sides. They need to realize that just making the characters have sex is not enough to be able to say that those characters are in love because they aren’t. These authors need to realize that at this point you need something original because the same theme that has been rewritten a bunch of times for the past years is old and will give you an automatic 1 star.
HELLO it’s 2022…..what are y’all doing? get your shit together, you guys are losing the last of the peeps who would genuinely read bully romances for fun.
October 27, 2021
Sorry but DNF at 33% too many mistakes eg there going for a bus but next minute there going to a car park where they parked there car, Finn goes out a side door from school sees Lily so he gets out of his car to speak to her, she hates him because of something that I think was meant to happen on page but author forgot to actually write.
January 3, 2021
The story line, plot and idea are well thought out and interesting with a few twists and turns and surprising revelations but the character development and personality of Lily just don't do it justice. Lily was so immature and stupid, she trusted everyone and kept going back for more torture at the hands of Cora and Finn and I found it hard to relate or like her, if she was stronger and smarter she would have done the book justice. Lily is almost whiny at times and most of the time without much of a personality or back bone while Finn is an arrogant a$$ and totally a monster of a bully towards her with the help of his friends and Cora. Half the time I felt Lily's stupidity caused her own embarrassment and humiliation and that she deserved it most of the time. I hardly ever felt that she was the victim.
Even when all comes to light and the reason for Finn bullied her, it was self serving and she forgives him in a heartbeat, very annoying. Sorry but Lilly's character prevented me from connecting with the characters and I found the relationship between Finn and Lily lacking and boring at times. I felt that the chemistry, romance and relationship between them was not very believable and strong. Hopefully the next book has a better herione.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Even when all comes to light and the reason for Finn bullied her, it was self serving and she forgives him in a heartbeat, very annoying. Sorry but Lilly's character prevented me from connecting with the characters and I found the relationship between Finn and Lily lacking and boring at times. I felt that the chemistry, romance and relationship between them was not very believable and strong. Hopefully the next book has a better herione.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2021
This was a fabulous read, I was completely hooked throughout, it was such an enthralling and intriguing story that was full of hate, secrets and lies, as well as great characters who were not only entertaining and engaging, but bursting with chemistry.
Lily is thrown to the wolves at Ravenlake Academy with a past she wants to forget and a future she wants to just get through, and Finn rich, gorgeous and hiding secrets who appears to be the leader of the pack!! Lily is stronger than she thinks, but one person can only take so much before they break, can an unexpected ally come to her rescue but who and how?? Read the story for all your answers you won’t be disappointed. I was given this as an ARC by the author in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I was totally happy to provide.
Lily is thrown to the wolves at Ravenlake Academy with a past she wants to forget and a future she wants to just get through, and Finn rich, gorgeous and hiding secrets who appears to be the leader of the pack!! Lily is stronger than she thinks, but one person can only take so much before they break, can an unexpected ally come to her rescue but who and how?? Read the story for all your answers you won’t be disappointed. I was given this as an ARC by the author in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I was totally happy to provide.
January 4, 2021
This was my first book by Nicole Fox. The writing was okay. There were some inconsistencies that threw me off (i.e. Lily and her mom would meet to take the bus home but then they walked over to their car to drive home; once she pulled her underwear up so you couldn't see it under her dress then it was mentioned she wasn't wearing underwear). There were a lot of those types of things. Overall, it was an okay story, nothing super bully-ish or dark. It was a very light story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2021
I love this dark bully romance so much I have just recently started reading them and I find with each 9ne I love the more and more. You will fall in love with Finn and Lilt and these two have some serious heat between them. This book is a standalone but once you finish it your going to wat to read the next book asap
January 3, 2021
I was entertained by this storyline it flowed smoothly throughout the pages. The characters are great and engaging and kept me entertained throughout the pages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2021
Nicole fox is an amazing writer. She has this amazing gift that all her books and characters become real as her stories go on. This one is about a prep school with Lilly and Finn. at first you feel bad for Lilly and want to slap Finn but keep reading the story is great. Can’t wait fir the next book.
January 13, 2021
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1/2 Stars! Bully, YA romance. An ok read.
September 6, 2021
DNF 18%
I just want a good bully romance book with crass verbal exchange and a little enemies to lovers. Is that so hard? The last two I've tried have been a rapist apologist story. I don't get it, if Finn is so cute and Lily already liked him, did he need to drug her and rape her? Are bully romance authors trying to outdo each other with how low the male lead goes? These books are supposed to make me defend the male lead but I won't defend a rapists sorry.
I just want a good bully romance book with crass verbal exchange and a little enemies to lovers. Is that so hard? The last two I've tried have been a rapist apologist story. I don't get it, if Finn is so cute and Lily already liked him, did he need to drug her and rape her? Are bully romance authors trying to outdo each other with how low the male lead goes? These books are supposed to make me defend the male lead but I won't defend a rapists sorry.
July 7, 2021
I m sorry but this book was bad , Lily's character is so confusing. The characters are so shallow I couldn't understand them , The story was only them Fu*ing each other at every given encounter. The smut was the main focus at this story. So much details were needed to clarify some point but there were any
It was pure erotica nothing else
It was pure erotica nothing else
January 2, 2021
What will happen when she finally remembers "the incident"
Cruel Prep is the first book in the Princes of Ravenlake Academy series. This first book introduces the reader to the world of Ravenlake Academy, a private high school for the rich and powerful, and some of the various characters as the story centers on Lily DeVry and Finn Foster. I love the writing of Nicole Fox and once again this book does not disappoint. For me "bully romance" is not my usual read but as I love the author I wanted to read this and see what sort of story she came up with.
Finn is one of the Golden Boys at the academy where he plays football and is basically the leader of the academy. His family is rich and his father is powerful in the community.
Lily is a young woman just trying to make it through her last year of school. During the summer something happened and she had been beaten savagely, losing her memories of the incident and who was there except for one person. The town decided that Lily should attend Ravenlake Academy for her senior year instead of public school because of what happened. Lily's father has died and she and her mother lost everything including their house.
To say Lily and Finn are opposites is true but they both have secrets also. Finn has been told by his father to make Lily's life horrible so that she is intimidated to stay quiet about what she remembers of the incident and hopefully to move. Finn becomes Lily's bully but also somewhat obsessed about her as he develops feelings for her. At the same time Lily is having flashbacks to the incident and knows there were other people there but cannot see their faces. There are other characters involved in the story who help Finn in his quest to discredit Lily. What will happen when Lily finally remembers the details of the incident? Will Finn protect Lily or will he do his father's bidding and help destroy her, even after he admits he has feelings for her? Will Lily trust Finn or will his secrets push them apart?
This is a well written book with a story-line that has mystery, suspense, danger, drama for days, conniving, false friends, romance and some smexy scenes. I did have a hard time with Lily and Finn being teenagers and everything that was going on and how everyone was pitted against Lily. But even with that I still am glad I read this book and look forward to reading the next in this series.
Cruel Prep is the first book in the Princes of Ravenlake Academy series. This first book introduces the reader to the world of Ravenlake Academy, a private high school for the rich and powerful, and some of the various characters as the story centers on Lily DeVry and Finn Foster. I love the writing of Nicole Fox and once again this book does not disappoint. For me "bully romance" is not my usual read but as I love the author I wanted to read this and see what sort of story she came up with.
Finn is one of the Golden Boys at the academy where he plays football and is basically the leader of the academy. His family is rich and his father is powerful in the community.
Lily is a young woman just trying to make it through her last year of school. During the summer something happened and she had been beaten savagely, losing her memories of the incident and who was there except for one person. The town decided that Lily should attend Ravenlake Academy for her senior year instead of public school because of what happened. Lily's father has died and she and her mother lost everything including their house.
To say Lily and Finn are opposites is true but they both have secrets also. Finn has been told by his father to make Lily's life horrible so that she is intimidated to stay quiet about what she remembers of the incident and hopefully to move. Finn becomes Lily's bully but also somewhat obsessed about her as he develops feelings for her. At the same time Lily is having flashbacks to the incident and knows there were other people there but cannot see their faces. There are other characters involved in the story who help Finn in his quest to discredit Lily. What will happen when Lily finally remembers the details of the incident? Will Finn protect Lily or will he do his father's bidding and help destroy her, even after he admits he has feelings for her? Will Lily trust Finn or will his secrets push them apart?
This is a well written book with a story-line that has mystery, suspense, danger, drama for days, conniving, false friends, romance and some smexy scenes. I did have a hard time with Lily and Finn being teenagers and everything that was going on and how everyone was pitted against Lily. But even with that I still am glad I read this book and look forward to reading the next in this series.
January 3, 2021
Lily is coming to Ravenlake Academy for her senior year of high school. She got a scholarship thanks to her mother getting a job there. Although she doesn’t want to be there since the person responsible for the “incident “ last summer went to that school.
The “incident “ is that she witnessed what she believed to be a gang rape. She tried to ask for help but Nico beat her to such an extent that he left her in a coma with very few memories of that night left. When she wakes up, she denounces Nico but nobody believes her and Nico eventually goes to study abroad and she is marked as a liar for the police thanks to the help of Mr. Foster.
She meets Finn Foster on her first day. He and his friends are the Golden Boys in the school, so she is surprised when Cora convinces her to go to a party at Finn’s house, without knowing about the dark plans that he has in store for her in revenge for what happened to Nico and fueled by the hatred his father has for her.
Both start a relationship based on sex and although they both try to control their impulses, they are unable to deny each other.
As the plot progresses, she discovers more details about that fateful night , and in the end, Finn will have to decide whether to go ahead with his plans or keep the girl.
To be Nicole’s first YA book I have to say that she has started off on the right foot.❤️it.
“You, Lily DeVry, belong to me now. Speak a word of what you saw last night, and I’ll strip you of more than your innocence. Do you understand? I hope, for your sake, that you do understand. Or else I’ll be forced to do things to you no one else is willing to say out loud.”“Like kill me?” The question bursts out of me before I can think better of it. “I’m not a killer. I’m not nearly that merciful. I’ll do horrible things to you, Lily. But you’ll like it. You’ll like all of it. You’ll beg for more. By the time all is said and done, you’ll beg for it.”
The “incident “ is that she witnessed what she believed to be a gang rape. She tried to ask for help but Nico beat her to such an extent that he left her in a coma with very few memories of that night left. When she wakes up, she denounces Nico but nobody believes her and Nico eventually goes to study abroad and she is marked as a liar for the police thanks to the help of Mr. Foster.
She meets Finn Foster on her first day. He and his friends are the Golden Boys in the school, so she is surprised when Cora convinces her to go to a party at Finn’s house, without knowing about the dark plans that he has in store for her in revenge for what happened to Nico and fueled by the hatred his father has for her.
Both start a relationship based on sex and although they both try to control their impulses, they are unable to deny each other.
As the plot progresses, she discovers more details about that fateful night , and in the end, Finn will have to decide whether to go ahead with his plans or keep the girl.
To be Nicole’s first YA book I have to say that she has started off on the right foot.❤️it.
“You, Lily DeVry, belong to me now. Speak a word of what you saw last night, and I’ll strip you of more than your innocence. Do you understand? I hope, for your sake, that you do understand. Or else I’ll be forced to do things to you no one else is willing to say out loud.”“Like kill me?” The question bursts out of me before I can think better of it. “I’m not a killer. I’m not nearly that merciful. I’ll do horrible things to you, Lily. But you’ll like it. You’ll like all of it. You’ll beg for more. By the time all is said and done, you’ll beg for it.”
January 6, 2021
Somewhere in Texas there is something rotten, sinister,evil and dangerous it began with fear and fist and when it was done I had forgotten everything except the fear Lilly could things get any worse yes Lilly they can and will. Welcome to Ravenlake Prep Academy were only the rich and twisted go to school and one of its creulist and darkest is Finn Foster a Golden Boy with a very dark soul and well he's Lilly's new torment.
Finn Foster holder of secrets in a truly evil little town he and his friends rule it or partially his father is behind plenty of evil deeds and controls everything else and he wants Finn to do something that envolves Lilly but when her life and his are in danger when all the evil players are on the board who will save who.
I liked certain things in this book Finn is deviously sexy, and dark but when it comes down to it his hart isn't as black as it seems. Lilly is a contradiction at times to trusting too imature but by the end of the book you see her take charge. There romance with all its twist and turns dose have and open ended happy for now feel because you wonder what will happen when Lilly goes to college. My only other small issue the biker gang was kinda all over the place playing tuff guys when they were more like punks that didn't really act up till the end wish they were more edgy. Also the final fight scene wish there was more detail. But I still enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
Finn Foster holder of secrets in a truly evil little town he and his friends rule it or partially his father is behind plenty of evil deeds and controls everything else and he wants Finn to do something that envolves Lilly but when her life and his are in danger when all the evil players are on the board who will save who.
I liked certain things in this book Finn is deviously sexy, and dark but when it comes down to it his hart isn't as black as it seems. Lilly is a contradiction at times to trusting too imature but by the end of the book you see her take charge. There romance with all its twist and turns dose have and open ended happy for now feel because you wonder what will happen when Lilly goes to college. My only other small issue the biker gang was kinda all over the place playing tuff guys when they were more like punks that didn't really act up till the end wish they were more edgy. Also the final fight scene wish there was more detail. But I still enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.
January 25, 2021
This book was a good read....it wasn't great, but it wasn't horrible. It was the first high school bully romance I've read, so I don't have much to compare it to, but there was more angst then there was bullying and the suspense was great. The author kept building us up to a climactic ended but it was expected so I don't feel like it delivered the "punch" it was intended to.
Our H is Finn, a handsome rich boy and the Prince of Ravenlake Academy. He isn't much of a bully, but more of a hot-cold can't make up his mind. You can tell he falls for our h right away but has to keep up appearances. Lily is our h and you can tell she is messed up because of an "Incident" that happens over the summer but she trusts Finn almost immediately.
This book has alot of D/s vibes as Finn is very possessive and protective over Lily. The chemistry between them is good and the sex scenes are very warm bordering on hot. There are alot of secondary characters and we don't find out alot about them, but alot happens in this book for being the first in a series so I'm anxious to see where the author goes with this one.
FOUR STARS. I didn't get the "bully" vibe but it was still a great story with alot of angst and suspense. It kept me interested and wanting to turn the pages.
** I read this book through Kindle Unlimited and was NOT provided a copy from the author or publisher in exchange for a review. All thoughts are independent and my own. ***
Our H is Finn, a handsome rich boy and the Prince of Ravenlake Academy. He isn't much of a bully, but more of a hot-cold can't make up his mind. You can tell he falls for our h right away but has to keep up appearances. Lily is our h and you can tell she is messed up because of an "Incident" that happens over the summer but she trusts Finn almost immediately.
This book has alot of D/s vibes as Finn is very possessive and protective over Lily. The chemistry between them is good and the sex scenes are very warm bordering on hot. There are alot of secondary characters and we don't find out alot about them, but alot happens in this book for being the first in a series so I'm anxious to see where the author goes with this one.
FOUR STARS. I didn't get the "bully" vibe but it was still a great story with alot of angst and suspense. It kept me interested and wanting to turn the pages.
** I read this book through Kindle Unlimited and was NOT provided a copy from the author or publisher in exchange for a review. All thoughts are independent and my own. ***
January 17, 2021
Do I like bully-type books? Yeah. Are most of the books that are touted as being bully romances actually books where the H is a bully? Usually no. This one wasn’t bad or anything, but it wasn’t great either. Finn wasn’t really a bully. He was a typical rich kid with basically no rules or restrictions, and though he was supposed to be getting “revenge” because Lily happened to be running one night and saw the consensual gang-bang happening with Finn’s group of friends (of course, he wasn’t participating... what a good guy), he ended up falling in love with her instead. Lily of course, had a form of amnesia, and as it was dark, she didn’t know Finn was even there. And for her part, Lily barely seemed to question the way she was treated by Finn, even though she knew he wasn’t the best guy or anything, and continued to just sleep with him at every available opportunity. While I like the idea of people being overtaken by their passion and affection for each other, and how that may be inconvenient but just the nature of those type of feelings, it really didn’t feel like there was any good reason for it here beyond base attraction. I wish there had been. Would’ve made this a more compelling story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2021
My absolute favorite from Nicole Fox!! I started reading high-school bully books about a year ago and they quickly became my favorite genre. When I saw that one of my favorite authors was writing one I squealed like a 13 year old girl! LOL
Finn and Lily were such great characters and the fire between them was fantastic!
It was a super interesting story with a lot of angst, which are my favorite. I enjoyed the plot which was unique and a bit different than other bully stories. I was worried for a bit if I was going to have to hate Finn because I really liked his character. He had such a good connection with Lily. I liked the supporting characters and the whole setting for this book.
I like that this is a standalone but also part of a larger story line. It makes the books much more versatile doing it that way. I'm super excited for the next book and I hope Nicole Fox keeps going with this genre. Can't go wrong with a Nicole Fox book, no matter what genre, it will be well written and extremely entertaining. Cruel Prep is one not to miss and it definitely should be your next read! Highly recommend!!
Voluntary review of an ARC
Finn and Lily were such great characters and the fire between them was fantastic!
It was a super interesting story with a lot of angst, which are my favorite. I enjoyed the plot which was unique and a bit different than other bully stories. I was worried for a bit if I was going to have to hate Finn because I really liked his character. He had such a good connection with Lily. I liked the supporting characters and the whole setting for this book.
I like that this is a standalone but also part of a larger story line. It makes the books much more versatile doing it that way. I'm super excited for the next book and I hope Nicole Fox keeps going with this genre. Can't go wrong with a Nicole Fox book, no matter what genre, it will be well written and extremely entertaining. Cruel Prep is one not to miss and it definitely should be your next read! Highly recommend!!
Voluntary review of an ARC
January 1, 2021
Ravenlake Prep is a place where hell is alive and doing well on earth
This was a wonderful read that I am sure you will thoroughly enjoy as this story the first in this simply wonderful book was splendid and I am sure that like me you will find yourself looking forward to the next book in this series.
The accident that had left her simply without any memory of what had happened but the doctors are sure that my memory will return however there are those that do not actually believe that I am suffering from amnesia, in fact they actually believe that she is lying.
Finn Foster who is also at Finn Foster who is also at Ravenlake Prep and he is doing everything he possibly can to make her life a misery, there is simply nothing she seems to be able to do about it.
It is as though he knows that she has a deep dark secret and there is no way he is going to allow her to walk away without him discovering what the truth actually is. It is almost as though he can see right inside my head.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
This was a wonderful read that I am sure you will thoroughly enjoy as this story the first in this simply wonderful book was splendid and I am sure that like me you will find yourself looking forward to the next book in this series.
The accident that had left her simply without any memory of what had happened but the doctors are sure that my memory will return however there are those that do not actually believe that I am suffering from amnesia, in fact they actually believe that she is lying.
Finn Foster who is also at Finn Foster who is also at Ravenlake Prep and he is doing everything he possibly can to make her life a misery, there is simply nothing she seems to be able to do about it.
It is as though he knows that she has a deep dark secret and there is no way he is going to allow her to walk away without him discovering what the truth actually is. It is almost as though he can see right inside my head.
I voluntarily received and review an Advanced Reader Copy
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the great writing.
January 9, 2021
I loved Cruel Prep. I totally feel like Finn redeemed himself but the end of Cruel Prep. Had to put that out there! So without going into detail and spoiling Cruel Prep for future readers I will say that there are a lot of twist, turns, surprises, revelations, things going sideways, emotions, and so much heat! Nicole Fox did an outstanding job with Cruel Prep’s world and characters. Ravenlake sounds like it can be viewed as a great place but has its dark side too. Cruel Prep’s characters are all easy to want to interact with. For example, I wanted to slap Finn upside the head and tell him to man up. Oops, sorry almost gave away some details. So I will stop there. Nicole did a good job of bringing the story to life and makes you wish you could be there even if only for a little while! I think Lily, Finn, Caleb, Viktor, JC, and Noah are interesting characters and I would love to know more about them. I have a feeling we will learn more as the series progresses. I can’t wait for Cruel Academy, book 2 and I believe it will be about Caleb and Hayley as hinted at in the ending of Cruel Prep!! Enjoy getting to know the Golden Boys (Finn, Caleb, Viktor, Noah, JC, and Nico) and Lily.
July 5, 2025
Finn and Lily's story
This is an ultimate mean kids against an innocent story.
Finn Foster is a high school senior at Ravenlke Academy Prep, a private school in southern Texas. His father basically owns the town and controls his son. Finn is the leader of the Gokden Boys, the top clique in the school. His father is insanely wealthy, dishonest and evil.
Lily DeVry is poor, from the other side of town. She was attacked and beaten when she witnessed what she thought was a gang rape. Her mother was just hired as a custodian at Ravenlake, so she gets free tuition.
Liky is treated like trash by everyone at the school., especially the mean girls. For some reason, Finn seems to claim her for his own. The reasons are complicated.
Finn struggles with his growing affection towards Lily as his mission is to ruin her.
The storyline gets really outrageous towards the end. The story ends very abruptly. I hope the remaining 2 books continue their story even if they aren't the main characters.
This is an ultimate mean kids against an innocent story.
Finn Foster is a high school senior at Ravenlke Academy Prep, a private school in southern Texas. His father basically owns the town and controls his son. Finn is the leader of the Gokden Boys, the top clique in the school. His father is insanely wealthy, dishonest and evil.
Lily DeVry is poor, from the other side of town. She was attacked and beaten when she witnessed what she thought was a gang rape. Her mother was just hired as a custodian at Ravenlake, so she gets free tuition.
Liky is treated like trash by everyone at the school., especially the mean girls. For some reason, Finn seems to claim her for his own. The reasons are complicated.
Finn struggles with his growing affection towards Lily as his mission is to ruin her.
The storyline gets really outrageous towards the end. The story ends very abruptly. I hope the remaining 2 books continue their story even if they aren't the main characters.
January 2, 2021
Spoilers ahead
Ok. This book was absolutely great. However I feel like herione Lily just ruined it. Like she was warned not to trust the Finn and Cora ( the bullies) she went and did it anyway. The first night finn drugs her and she let's him. Lily still tries ( for a hot minute) to be cool with Cora, but it took Cora slapping lily to realize it's a no go. Then 30 seconds later lily and finn are having a intimate moment even though she knows she needs to leave him alone. Then 2 days later she's blowing him in the car and she upset that Finn's bragging about it at school. Then with the help of Cora, finn gets lily in trouble then shes back to wanting to be with him again? Lily was making angry!! I was ready to call it quits about 26% into the book. I am glad I finished it because as time went on I began to understand Lily and Finn's dynamic and unexpected twist that happens. Look forward to the next book.
Ok. This book was absolutely great. However I feel like herione Lily just ruined it. Like she was warned not to trust the Finn and Cora ( the bullies) she went and did it anyway. The first night finn drugs her and she let's him. Lily still tries ( for a hot minute) to be cool with Cora, but it took Cora slapping lily to realize it's a no go. Then 30 seconds later lily and finn are having a intimate moment even though she knows she needs to leave him alone. Then 2 days later she's blowing him in the car and she upset that Finn's bragging about it at school. Then with the help of Cora, finn gets lily in trouble then shes back to wanting to be with him again? Lily was making angry!! I was ready to call it quits about 26% into the book. I am glad I finished it because as time went on I began to understand Lily and Finn's dynamic and unexpected twist that happens. Look forward to the next book.
January 2, 2021
This is the 1st book in a trilogy and what an amazing beginning this story is. Finn is cruel and wealthy and the Prince of Ravenlake, and he determined to make Lily’s life a misery and is determined to uncover what secrets she is hiding, and there is an undeniable connection between them. Lily had an accident which has left her with no memory, and although the doctors are sure the amnesia is a short-term thing, there are others who are convinced that there is nothing wrong with her and she is hiding the truth. This is a well written tale which is this talented author at her best. This story is raw, gritty, and dark, and is filled with angst, secrets, emotions, revenge, and is an entertaining and all-consuming read, with a unique and riveting plot. I look forward to reading more from this gifted author whose work I highly recommend for all.
January 2, 2021
I'm a huge fan of Nicole, but this was my first bully romance by her. I did enjoy it a lot, it was written very well, I liked the twists, hidden agendas and suspense! For me though I couldn't connect with the MFC and that's what let it down for me, she was very naive and came across simple minded, especially at the beginning of the story. Admittedly her character did develop as the story progressed and she did seem to gather some strength right at the end......but for me she needed to be stronger, tougher and fight Finn more throughout the whole plot.
Overall it was enjoyable and I want to read more in the series as I liked some of the guys in this story....just please give the heroines a bit more fighting spirit!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Overall it was enjoyable and I want to read more in the series as I liked some of the guys in this story....just please give the heroines a bit more fighting spirit!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2021
Life isn’t fair and now I’m paying the price all because of an incident I don’t remember happening. My personal tormentor’s family owns this town so they get away with anything and everything which includes me. I wish I knew why. I was told I had a concussion which I have know idea how it happened. I feel like my whole world has been turned upside down. I’m being bullied, called unkind names and a liar. My tormentor is Finn Foster one of the “Golden Boys” at Ravenlake Academy and I’m Lily DeVry the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Fabulous story! Characters that you can feel in your heart. A storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat and glued to your kindle! Well done by Nicole Fox. A must read. Grab your copy today and start reading. Enjoy happy reading 📚 I look forward to reading more from this series.
"I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book."
"I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book."
January 4, 2021
This is an amazing Dark high school bully romance.
Lily is a new senior on scholarship at Ravenlake Prep because her mother got a job there. Lily doesn’t fit in at the school and is bullied. She is also having a hard time from an incident that happened 6 months ago and her mind will not let her remember all the details. Finn who is very popular and on the football team singles her out and wants to ruin Lily because his father is pressuring him to. Lily is having a hard time figuring out her relationship with Finn as they interact and spend time together but, is extremely drawn to him. Finn is also fighting with himself on how he feels towards Lily. This was an incredible read! I could not put this book down! I cannot wait to read the other Golden Boys stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lily is a new senior on scholarship at Ravenlake Prep because her mother got a job there. Lily doesn’t fit in at the school and is bullied. She is also having a hard time from an incident that happened 6 months ago and her mind will not let her remember all the details. Finn who is very popular and on the football team singles her out and wants to ruin Lily because his father is pressuring him to. Lily is having a hard time figuring out her relationship with Finn as they interact and spend time together but, is extremely drawn to him. Finn is also fighting with himself on how he feels towards Lily. This was an incredible read! I could not put this book down! I cannot wait to read the other Golden Boys stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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