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Captive Writings #1
Ruthless Letters
Elena,
In order to protect you, I needed to lose you—to give you up. For years I’ve been tormented knowing another man is touching you, earning moans from you that should be mine, and knowing you love him for it. In order for this to work though, I must wait my turn.
But now I’m back, Dolly, and I’m coming for you. Remember the games we played in high school? We’re all grown up now, so this round will be on an entirely new level, and I hope you’re ready. I’ll steal your happiness, and then when you’re alone with nothing and no one, I’ll steal you. After all, it’s fair, don’t you think?
You think I’m the monster, when all I’ve ever done is defend you from the true villain. And this time is no different.
Ready? Set… Go.
Ruthlessly yours,
Ryker
Ruthless Letters is the first book in the Captive Writings series, which must be read in order. Ruthless Letters is a grey bully romance with content some readers may find triggering. Trigger warnings include dubious consent, explicit sexual content, bullying, physical violence, spanking, anal sex, swearing, manipulation, humiliation, reference to rape, and reference to murder. This series gets darker with each passing book.
In order to protect you, I needed to lose you—to give you up. For years I’ve been tormented knowing another man is touching you, earning moans from you that should be mine, and knowing you love him for it. In order for this to work though, I must wait my turn.
But now I’m back, Dolly, and I’m coming for you. Remember the games we played in high school? We’re all grown up now, so this round will be on an entirely new level, and I hope you’re ready. I’ll steal your happiness, and then when you’re alone with nothing and no one, I’ll steal you. After all, it’s fair, don’t you think?
You think I’m the monster, when all I’ve ever done is defend you from the true villain. And this time is no different.
Ready? Set… Go.
Ruthlessly yours,
Ryker
Ruthless Letters is the first book in the Captive Writings series, which must be read in order. Ruthless Letters is a grey bully romance with content some readers may find triggering. Trigger warnings include dubious consent, explicit sexual content, bullying, physical violence, spanking, anal sex, swearing, manipulation, humiliation, reference to rape, and reference to murder. This series gets darker with each passing book.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2022
171 people are currently reading
847 people want to read
About the author
M.L. Philpitt
37 books378 followersUSA Today Bestselling author M.L. Philpitt writes both dark romance and paranormal romance. When she’s not writing made-up realities, she’s reading them. She lives in Canada with her four pets and survives life with coffee and an obsession with fictional characters, especially the morally grey kind. By day, she masks as a therapist, and is still waiting for her Hogwarts letter so she can be sorted into her Ravenclaw house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
February 7, 2022
Ruthless payback, undeniable love
3.75 stars
Ryker has bullied Elena since high school, seeing her as his, ruthlessly keeping guys away from her with the help of his friends. Elena secretly hopes he will change as she is unwittingly, naively attracted to him and his subjugation. Ryker gets in trouble and incarcerated. He sees her for one lasting kiss…. His letters commence, his claims to her reiterated. In fact, he seems to have eyes from the jail cell. Years later, Elena encounters her true interest again – Ryder, a stalker, a bad boy with influence as he owns, takes control of, and seeks revenge upon his dolly Elena while reinstating his claim.
Dark-haired, green-eyed Ryker, a feared powerhouse in school, carried a toxic flame for Elena upon meeting while Elena remained soft and acceding to Ryker. Interesting the tale woven around his claim of her over the years and his plans for revenge – in some ways, fiery attraction and others relentless overturning of her entire life. And in all, it seemed both were attracted to each other, but unable to give into their feelings. While Elena may have succumbed too easily to Ryker, his treatment of her, and her mother’s control, the true-love-conquers-all romantic in me easily accepted her accessions. I could understand others finding her behavior and response to Ryker too soft, too willing, however.
I loved the couple’s magnetism, which was apparent even during bullying and revenge. Their few spicy scenes were hot. I also liked the pace of the story and its active progression – the stalking, revenge seeking, and mystery kept me engaged. There were side characters instrumental to the plot’s unfolding, some influential, cold, and some unexpected which I hope to read more about in the next books. Despite the warnings, I did not find this book dark.
While I enjoyed this story, there were times where I felt dissonance in the plot line, something just off as to make it unrealistic, implausible. Perhaps, it was the ease of Elena’s acceptance of it all, a conventional lack of pushback against Ryker and her mother, her acceptance of her unrewarding situation, though, for Ryker, I was more than willing to make exceptions. Ryker was simply wicked charisma. Overall, an entertaining read, and I look forward to book 2.
3.75 stars
Ryker has bullied Elena since high school, seeing her as his, ruthlessly keeping guys away from her with the help of his friends. Elena secretly hopes he will change as she is unwittingly, naively attracted to him and his subjugation. Ryker gets in trouble and incarcerated. He sees her for one lasting kiss…. His letters commence, his claims to her reiterated. In fact, he seems to have eyes from the jail cell. Years later, Elena encounters her true interest again – Ryder, a stalker, a bad boy with influence as he owns, takes control of, and seeks revenge upon his dolly Elena while reinstating his claim.
Dark-haired, green-eyed Ryker, a feared powerhouse in school, carried a toxic flame for Elena upon meeting while Elena remained soft and acceding to Ryker. Interesting the tale woven around his claim of her over the years and his plans for revenge – in some ways, fiery attraction and others relentless overturning of her entire life. And in all, it seemed both were attracted to each other, but unable to give into their feelings. While Elena may have succumbed too easily to Ryker, his treatment of her, and her mother’s control, the true-love-conquers-all romantic in me easily accepted her accessions. I could understand others finding her behavior and response to Ryker too soft, too willing, however.
I loved the couple’s magnetism, which was apparent even during bullying and revenge. Their few spicy scenes were hot. I also liked the pace of the story and its active progression – the stalking, revenge seeking, and mystery kept me engaged. There were side characters instrumental to the plot’s unfolding, some influential, cold, and some unexpected which I hope to read more about in the next books. Despite the warnings, I did not find this book dark.
While I enjoyed this story, there were times where I felt dissonance in the plot line, something just off as to make it unrealistic, implausible. Perhaps, it was the ease of Elena’s acceptance of it all, a conventional lack of pushback against Ryker and her mother, her acceptance of her unrewarding situation, though, for Ryker, I was more than willing to make exceptions. Ryker was simply wicked charisma. Overall, an entertaining read, and I look forward to book 2.
February 6, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5)
Trope: bully, stalker, revenge
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Despite immediate attraction, Ryker has bullied Elena since the day they met in high school. Bullied her, kept guys away from her, but never made her his. Throughout it all, Elena fought an attraction she couldn't explain or wish away. Then, the day he is incarcerated, he claims her with a kiss and a letter, vowing to be back. Years later, Ryker is now out of jail and claiming her with a letter once again.
This was a bully romance with a touch of suspense. I really wanted to like this story. The attraction and chemistry between the two of them was super hot, but it just wasn't enough. The bullying seemed way too easily accepted by Elena and it made it hard for me respect her. There were also no real acknowledgment of the actions by Elena's mother, apology, or reasons for what she'd done. Just too many questions and holes. I'm hoping some of them will be answered in book 2 since the stories seem like they'll be woven together. This is my first book by ML Philpitt and I'll likely give at least the next book a go to see where she takes us.
Ruthless Letters is book one in the Captive Writings series by ML Philpitt and ends with a HFN for the couple, but a cliffhanger for the series story arc.
Trope: bully, stalker, revenge
Angst: 😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Despite immediate attraction, Ryker has bullied Elena since the day they met in high school. Bullied her, kept guys away from her, but never made her his. Throughout it all, Elena fought an attraction she couldn't explain or wish away. Then, the day he is incarcerated, he claims her with a kiss and a letter, vowing to be back. Years later, Ryker is now out of jail and claiming her with a letter once again.
This was a bully romance with a touch of suspense. I really wanted to like this story. The attraction and chemistry between the two of them was super hot, but it just wasn't enough. The bullying seemed way too easily accepted by Elena and it made it hard for me respect her. There were also no real acknowledgment of the actions by Elena's mother, apology, or reasons for what she'd done. Just too many questions and holes. I'm hoping some of them will be answered in book 2 since the stories seem like they'll be woven together. This is my first book by ML Philpitt and I'll likely give at least the next book a go to see where she takes us.
Ruthless Letters is book one in the Captive Writings series by ML Philpitt and ends with a HFN for the couple, but a cliffhanger for the series story arc.
February 2, 2022
“Mine to hate. Mine to love”
5/5⭐️ 3.75/5🔥
STEAM: 4/5🌶
I fell extremely hard and fast for Ryker and Elena and I can’t wait to continue the Captive Writings Series. This is book one in the series that starts off with Elena and Ryker.
Ryker is RUTHLESS, a brutal bully set out to make Elena’s life the worst after he’s out from prison after four years of being without his “Dolly” At times I found Ryker very manipulative and way too harsh with his obsession and Elena taking the heat because she loved and hated the things Ryker was doing it. Her development towards the end when she’s finally had enough was TOP TIER.
⚠️: This can be read as a stand-alone and is a HEA with the couple in this book, but the plot is left at a slight cliffhanger that leaves you wanting answers
📝 Dark Bully Romance
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
📝 College Romance
🖤Suspenseful + vengeful
“You seem to be forgetting who owns you, Dolly. We can’t have other people thinking you’re free game”
TW/CW: bullying, degradation, praise kink, violence, dubious con/non-con, mentions of SA/murder, and manipulation
5/5⭐️ 3.75/5🔥
STEAM: 4/5🌶
I fell extremely hard and fast for Ryker and Elena and I can’t wait to continue the Captive Writings Series. This is book one in the series that starts off with Elena and Ryker.
Ryker is RUTHLESS, a brutal bully set out to make Elena’s life the worst after he’s out from prison after four years of being without his “Dolly” At times I found Ryker very manipulative and way too harsh with his obsession and Elena taking the heat because she loved and hated the things Ryker was doing it. Her development towards the end when she’s finally had enough was TOP TIER.
⚠️: This can be read as a stand-alone and is a HEA with the couple in this book, but the plot is left at a slight cliffhanger that leaves you wanting answers
📝 Dark Bully Romance
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
📝 College Romance
🖤Suspenseful + vengeful
“You seem to be forgetting who owns you, Dolly. We can’t have other people thinking you’re free game”
TW/CW: bullying, degradation, praise kink, violence, dubious con/non-con, mentions of SA/murder, and manipulation
February 6, 2022
YALLLLLLLLLLL...
Okay okay. Where to start? The anger I felt at Ryker? The secrets I NEEDED to know? Or the Spice that had me shaking? So many places I could begin. Please remember going in that this is a BULLY romance, and it is dark! So expect these things accordingly. The character development is spot on. The way the author reveals tid bits of information while also having that suspenseful vibe was literally maddening. I needed to keep reading. I'm super invested in Tristan and can't wait to learn more about him!
This is book one in an interconnected standalone series; Captive Writings. There is and HEA of the couple Elena and Ryker!
Okay okay. Where to start? The anger I felt at Ryker? The secrets I NEEDED to know? Or the Spice that had me shaking? So many places I could begin. Please remember going in that this is a BULLY romance, and it is dark! So expect these things accordingly. The character development is spot on. The way the author reveals tid bits of information while also having that suspenseful vibe was literally maddening. I needed to keep reading. I'm super invested in Tristan and can't wait to learn more about him!
This is book one in an interconnected standalone series; Captive Writings. There is and HEA of the couple Elena and Ryker!
January 29, 2022
“Do not see me as the hero, because I’m not one. I’ll forever be your villain.” 🖤
Ryker Ames is a possessive, brutal bully who has been obsessed with Elena for years. He was recently released from prison for assaulting a fellow student, for reasons unknown. Elena is a criminal law student and comes across a letter, from Ryker, who she thought was out of her life for good…
Bully romances are not always my cup of tea ☕️ but this one was fantastic. It starts off where you really hate Ryker, but you slowly love him when more details emerge. The mystery going on throughout was intriguing. The spice between Ryker & Elena was amazingly hot. 🔥
Read this if you like ⤵️
🖤 Dark Romance
👊🏻 Bully Romance
🎓 College / Academic Setting
🔎 Mystery
👩❤️👨 Dual POV with Flashbacks
😈 Praise + Degradation K¡nk
📚 Stand-Alone Series
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶.5/5
Ruthless Letters by M.L. Philpitt
Captive Writings Series Book 1
Thank you Netgalley for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for a honest review.
Comes out Feb 6, 2022
Ryker Ames is a possessive, brutal bully who has been obsessed with Elena for years. He was recently released from prison for assaulting a fellow student, for reasons unknown. Elena is a criminal law student and comes across a letter, from Ryker, who she thought was out of her life for good…
Bully romances are not always my cup of tea ☕️ but this one was fantastic. It starts off where you really hate Ryker, but you slowly love him when more details emerge. The mystery going on throughout was intriguing. The spice between Ryker & Elena was amazingly hot. 🔥
Read this if you like ⤵️
🖤 Dark Romance
👊🏻 Bully Romance
🎓 College / Academic Setting
🔎 Mystery
👩❤️👨 Dual POV with Flashbacks
😈 Praise + Degradation K¡nk
📚 Stand-Alone Series
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶🌶.5/5
Ruthless Letters by M.L. Philpitt
Captive Writings Series Book 1
Thank you Netgalley for an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for a honest review.
Comes out Feb 6, 2022
February 3, 2022
I hadn't read a bully romance in awhile i enjoyed the authors style. At times i cringed for what the herione Elena went through cuz Ryker treated her horrible.(granted in my opinion it was bad maybe you might not think so) I liked how this transition was from high school through college. I liked the plot twist and how i was in suspense most of the time cuz the unexpected would happen. Smut was good as well..
Humiliation kink
Praise kink
Second chance
ARC provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
Humiliation kink
Praise kink
Second chance
ARC provided for free in exchange for a honest review all opinions are my own.
January 28, 2022
Now that was a ride 👀 I couldn’t put it down because I was so intrigued on everything that was happening and wanting to know what had happened. I will say I though the bullying was TOUGH, I love a bully romance but a part of me did feel like the things that happened to her were maybe a little too far! My heart hurt for her a little! But by the end everything did come together, with answers that made sense. I love an a**hole so Ryker was right up my street! The possessive, controlling, bad boy was 👌🏽 I would have like a little grovelling from him 😂 but altogether I did enjoy and I’m looking forward to the next one with Tristan and Natalie!!
January 27, 2022
Dark. Twisted. Spicy.
This book had me up until dawn reading, I couldn't put it down! From the very first page I was obsessed with the characters. Ryker is a possessive, broody, bully who is infatuated with Elena from day one, but not for reasons you may expect. Dark and emotional, the twists in this book will have you on the edge of your seat, waiting to see what happens next.
I cannot wait for Tristan's story to be release. Super interested to see just how far these men are willing to go to accomplish their goal.
This book had me up until dawn reading, I couldn't put it down! From the very first page I was obsessed with the characters. Ryker is a possessive, broody, bully who is infatuated with Elena from day one, but not for reasons you may expect. Dark and emotional, the twists in this book will have you on the edge of your seat, waiting to see what happens next.
I cannot wait for Tristan's story to be release. Super interested to see just how far these men are willing to go to accomplish their goal.
April 20, 2022
The only reason I’m giving it 1 star is because I think the premise of That being said, oml did this entire book make me want to hurl my tablet across the room or wish to be transported into it so I can smack the shit out of the main leads. Like, really really hard. All these types of books lack common sense perhaps a clear reflection of the author writing it. God the way the FL immediately forgave the bully ML and proclaimed him to be some hero. Fuck no. He’s no hero. Any decent human being would’ve done the same as him, albeit not as extreme. Stopping sexual assault from happening isn’t a hero like quality, it’s a common fucking decency that’s expected regardless. Anyways, no spine for the FL, at least she wasn’t a virgin who ended up losing her firsts to her tormentor. Oh WAIT, she kind of did because guess what? Asshole ML controlled who could take it. As if it’s some fucking prize. If a guy did any of the shit ML did, I would (and I’m sure many others with basic self-respect and common sense) literally take his ass to court outside of the shitty small town he runs and leave after getting my revenge. Ugh. Stop fucking romanticizing bullying. ESPECIALLY WHEN THERE’S NO ACTUAL GROVELLING. Phew I am quite tired and dnf at like 65%
February 15, 2022
The first day of high school started well - until Ryker Ames realized Elena Sparks' mother was the lawyer working against him.
Elena, totally unaware, confuses Ryker's attention as interest- though he bullies her constantly. Right up to a few weeks before graduation- when she finds him at her door, kissing her, leaving her a goodbye letter.
A few years later, Elena is about to finish her undergraduate degree before heading to law school. Only to have Ryker leave her another letter - he's coming for his revenge.
Some of the plot was harsh- but resolved.
Great start to a new series. Can't wait to read more about these characters.
Elena, totally unaware, confuses Ryker's attention as interest- though he bullies her constantly. Right up to a few weeks before graduation- when she finds him at her door, kissing her, leaving her a goodbye letter.
A few years later, Elena is about to finish her undergraduate degree before heading to law school. Only to have Ryker leave her another letter - he's coming for his revenge.
Some of the plot was harsh- but resolved.
Great start to a new series. Can't wait to read more about these characters.
January 24, 2022
When you think you have a book figured out by the first couple chapters…I was so wrong. There’s always a reason behind the bullying and manipulation, but the story behind it is something that will easily carry further on into the series. Ryker’s brutality in the beginning was surprising, and his responses to his actions made me hooked on figuring out what the motive was. Elena’s feelings never changed throughout the book, which I loved. A character that is consistent with her thoughts and feelings is more relatable than anything!
This review is after receiving a free ARC from netgalley.
This review is after receiving a free ARC from netgalley.
February 6, 2022
'Mine to hate. Mine to love'
3.75/5 Stars
Okay, I don't really know where to start with this one, but I really did enjoy it! I love a good enemies to lovers dark romance, and although this one wasn't particularly on the really dark side in my opinion, by the end of it your set up nicely for the rest of series and i can see how its going to get much much darker.
There were so many tropes in this that I love! Yes its a dark bully romance which i always have mixed feelings about but, the enemies to lovers? Fab. Second chance? Perfect. College Romance? Yes. Alpha male turned protective alpha male? GIMMIE! I'll admit this book picked up more for me towards the second half and I was definitely expecting a more explosive reasoning behind the malicious behaviour at first especially seen as the revenge level was so intense, although it does start to make more sense towards the end (I think i've read so many dark romances i just expect everything to be bat shit crazy at this point). That being said, I did really enjoy this book, it had a really interesting introduction to what I expect is going to be an insanely intense plot for the rest of the series.
The romance in this was *chefs kiss*. The tension at the beginning with the hate but also lust? Again, im here for it, I think it always adds to the chemistry and tension between characters, if its done well, and i think it was here. Also a sucker for an Alpha male if you hadn't already guessed and then when he becomes protective too, cherry on top. We didn't quite get grovelling but we got super close and this is one of my FAVOURITE things in books. I liked the fact that everything was explained well when it was finally revealed and the reasons behind all the actions made so much more sense that yes you find yourself empathising with the morally grey character in the book, i cant help it okay, its just too good! Loved the flashbacks that we got throughout as well and this really adds to understanding the characters. Miscommunication is a big red flag for me in romances and i love/hate it but this one had such an impact i couldn't help but kind of love it.
Adored the fact that we didn't get the cliche 'break-up then make up before the end of the book' Again, i EAT this up when we do get it and we know i secretly love it but I live for the occasional book that does it differently and has them stay together and happy through the end of the book.
This book does cover some mature themes so 18+ recommended, please always check trigger warnings, there are a few!
Overall this was a great start to the series and i'm super excited to crack on with the rest of this series when its out, Tristans book is already going to be wild ride I know it and then Hawke....
3.75/5 Stars
Okay, I don't really know where to start with this one, but I really did enjoy it! I love a good enemies to lovers dark romance, and although this one wasn't particularly on the really dark side in my opinion, by the end of it your set up nicely for the rest of series and i can see how its going to get much much darker.
There were so many tropes in this that I love! Yes its a dark bully romance which i always have mixed feelings about but, the enemies to lovers? Fab. Second chance? Perfect. College Romance? Yes. Alpha male turned protective alpha male? GIMMIE! I'll admit this book picked up more for me towards the second half and I was definitely expecting a more explosive reasoning behind the malicious behaviour at first especially seen as the revenge level was so intense, although it does start to make more sense towards the end (I think i've read so many dark romances i just expect everything to be bat shit crazy at this point). That being said, I did really enjoy this book, it had a really interesting introduction to what I expect is going to be an insanely intense plot for the rest of the series.
The romance in this was *chefs kiss*. The tension at the beginning with the hate but also lust? Again, im here for it, I think it always adds to the chemistry and tension between characters, if its done well, and i think it was here. Also a sucker for an Alpha male if you hadn't already guessed and then when he becomes protective too, cherry on top. We didn't quite get grovelling but we got super close and this is one of my FAVOURITE things in books. I liked the fact that everything was explained well when it was finally revealed and the reasons behind all the actions made so much more sense that yes you find yourself empathising with the morally grey character in the book, i cant help it okay, its just too good! Loved the flashbacks that we got throughout as well and this really adds to understanding the characters. Miscommunication is a big red flag for me in romances and i love/hate it but this one had such an impact i couldn't help but kind of love it.
Adored the fact that we didn't get the cliche 'break-up then make up before the end of the book' Again, i EAT this up when we do get it and we know i secretly love it but I live for the occasional book that does it differently and has them stay together and happy through the end of the book.
This book does cover some mature themes so 18+ recommended, please always check trigger warnings, there are a few!
Overall this was a great start to the series and i'm super excited to crack on with the rest of this series when its out, Tristans book is already going to be wild ride I know it and then Hawke....
February 6, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / 5
This story had me going through a lot of ups and downs and what-the-hells. It’s the first bully romance I’ve read and I’m still not sure how I feel about the trope, but the story was intriguing and the spice was right on!
Ryker is dark, a depth of emotions, and the perfect villain to hero. And maybe it was just that Elena didn’t have enough life experience, but at times, she was just a bit too easily forgiving. I think I would’ve liked to see a stronger side of her and also see Ryker work for some of that forgiveness just a little bit. Regardless, I could still feel their deep connection through the pages.
Ryker’s friends were very loyal to him, but I couldn’t help but think we were missing part of the story there. I wanted to know more about why they were all so close and loyal, what did they go through in the past that influenced their close friendship? What was it that made them do anything for Ryker and go to the lengths that they did in the name of loyalty?
I thought there was a lot of build-up to the point of the story and to the answers that Elena was looking for, and the way the clues where given out bit by bit became almost a little drawn out. So I was expecting a bit more of an explosive climax (…heh 😏). But the mystery behind it all kept me engaged and wanting more.
Overall, I did enjoy this book and the ending has me really excited to see what happens next in this series!!
Thank you to NetGalleyand and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Please check trigger warnings before reading this book.
This story had me going through a lot of ups and downs and what-the-hells. It’s the first bully romance I’ve read and I’m still not sure how I feel about the trope, but the story was intriguing and the spice was right on!
Ryker is dark, a depth of emotions, and the perfect villain to hero. And maybe it was just that Elena didn’t have enough life experience, but at times, she was just a bit too easily forgiving. I think I would’ve liked to see a stronger side of her and also see Ryker work for some of that forgiveness just a little bit. Regardless, I could still feel their deep connection through the pages.
Ryker’s friends were very loyal to him, but I couldn’t help but think we were missing part of the story there. I wanted to know more about why they were all so close and loyal, what did they go through in the past that influenced their close friendship? What was it that made them do anything for Ryker and go to the lengths that they did in the name of loyalty?
I thought there was a lot of build-up to the point of the story and to the answers that Elena was looking for, and the way the clues where given out bit by bit became almost a little drawn out. So I was expecting a bit more of an explosive climax (…heh 😏). But the mystery behind it all kept me engaged and wanting more.
Overall, I did enjoy this book and the ending has me really excited to see what happens next in this series!!
Thank you to NetGalleyand and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Please check trigger warnings before reading this book.
February 1, 2022
Is Ryker a bully, a villain, or a hero?
Ruthless Letters is a bully romance with a heavy lean towards the bullying. It’s not as dark as some bully romances I’ve read but there are still some very harmful results from it. Honestly, the bullying aspect was written exceptionally well, so well, in fact, I wanted to throttle Ryker many, many times. I realized there was more to his story and reasons for why he behaved as he did but he totally enjoyed the whole process as well.
There were times when I felt devastated for Elena, absolutely amazed how she could keep going. It was at these times I also wanted to do something drastic to Ryker. 😆 I knew there had to be some big reveal as to why he had put Elena through everything, especially at college and then we find out the first half of the reason is not what I thought it would be, yet sort of was! I know clear as mud! 🤦🏻♀️ You just have to read it because it is worthwhile reading.
There is also an element of suspense throughout and not just involving the bullying, it is actually the huge reason behind a lot of things and although, yes, dreadful to think about—very exciting too, to wonder how things will develop.
Is Ryker a bully, a villain, or a hero? You’ll need to read this story to find out just like I can’t wait to read the next story, Obsessive Messages, with Tristan and Natalie!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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Ruthless Letters is a bully romance with a heavy lean towards the bullying. It’s not as dark as some bully romances I’ve read but there are still some very harmful results from it. Honestly, the bullying aspect was written exceptionally well, so well, in fact, I wanted to throttle Ryker many, many times. I realized there was more to his story and reasons for why he behaved as he did but he totally enjoyed the whole process as well.
There were times when I felt devastated for Elena, absolutely amazed how she could keep going. It was at these times I also wanted to do something drastic to Ryker. 😆 I knew there had to be some big reveal as to why he had put Elena through everything, especially at college and then we find out the first half of the reason is not what I thought it would be, yet sort of was! I know clear as mud! 🤦🏻♀️ You just have to read it because it is worthwhile reading.
There is also an element of suspense throughout and not just involving the bullying, it is actually the huge reason behind a lot of things and although, yes, dreadful to think about—very exciting too, to wonder how things will develop.
Is Ryker a bully, a villain, or a hero? You’ll need to read this story to find out just like I can’t wait to read the next story, Obsessive Messages, with Tristan and Natalie!
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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January 25, 2022
Little to no spoilers. I received this early copy courtesy of Victory Edition NetGallery Co-op through NetGallery for an honest review.
Elena Sparks met Ryker Ames in high school. He was her bully that she did everything he told her to do. She would do anything for his attention no matter how humiliating it was at times. She was his Dolly to play with. Until he was gone. She had no answers to why he was mean to her or why he did what he did. Ryker Ames wanted to hate his Doll but he has to protect her. Fast forward some years when Elena is now in college. Her world is turned upside down and everything is taken away from her. She has her first boyfriend Brent and they have a plan for a future together. Will Elena stay with boy next door good for her Brent, or will she risk her mind body and soul for the one person to cause her the most pain? “Brent reminds me he loves me, there’s still a small fragment of my heart owned by someone else.” When Ryker is back into the story he doesn’t give Elena many clues or answers. “We will be playing this game again, only this time, I’m playing to win.” Ryker Ames in the beginning of the book came off as Joe Goldberg from the You series. How Ryker would follow and watch Elena. Reading this book I couldn’t get a read on his character. Was he bad and dangerous or was he hiding who he really was, a good guy? I liked how I was left in the dark and I learned more about Ryker as if I were in Elena’s shoes. This was definitely a spicy read and soon as I thought I knew the direction this book was going it’d take a turn. This is book one and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series. The rating this book received is for the storyline, I could connect with characters and it was unpredictable. Also has a playlist in the beginning of the book!
Elena Sparks met Ryker Ames in high school. He was her bully that she did everything he told her to do. She would do anything for his attention no matter how humiliating it was at times. She was his Dolly to play with. Until he was gone. She had no answers to why he was mean to her or why he did what he did. Ryker Ames wanted to hate his Doll but he has to protect her. Fast forward some years when Elena is now in college. Her world is turned upside down and everything is taken away from her. She has her first boyfriend Brent and they have a plan for a future together. Will Elena stay with boy next door good for her Brent, or will she risk her mind body and soul for the one person to cause her the most pain? “Brent reminds me he loves me, there’s still a small fragment of my heart owned by someone else.” When Ryker is back into the story he doesn’t give Elena many clues or answers. “We will be playing this game again, only this time, I’m playing to win.” Ryker Ames in the beginning of the book came off as Joe Goldberg from the You series. How Ryker would follow and watch Elena. Reading this book I couldn’t get a read on his character. Was he bad and dangerous or was he hiding who he really was, a good guy? I liked how I was left in the dark and I learned more about Ryker as if I were in Elena’s shoes. This was definitely a spicy read and soon as I thought I knew the direction this book was going it’d take a turn. This is book one and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series. The rating this book received is for the storyline, I could connect with characters and it was unpredictable. Also has a playlist in the beginning of the book!
February 5, 2022
This was a new to me author and one I'll definitely be reading more from including the next book in the series as I'm already dying to know what happens next.
This book did conflict me for a lot of it, as the lengths he went to felt too far, especially when you get more answers, however I do understand the why's but does he deserve easy redemption?
This book will have you either melting from the steam or head exploding from the twists.
Definitely a good start to a series.
This book did conflict me for a lot of it, as the lengths he went to felt too far, especially when you get more answers, however I do understand the why's but does he deserve easy redemption?
This book will have you either melting from the steam or head exploding from the twists.
Definitely a good start to a series.
January 27, 2022
ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op in exchange for a honest review.
Obsessed from page one!
Intense, hot and emotional this dark romance is angsty and addictive. Ruthless Letters follows Ryker and Elena's whirlwind romance. With dual point of view chapters going back and forth between past and present we see just how far Ryker is willing to go. A bully romance that has the boy falling first, Ryker has a secret, one that involves Elena. Not stopping until he gets what he wants.
This book was hot and steamy and had me wanting more. Ryker was hot and addicting. If you love dark romance this is a stalker romance you will not want to miss.
Obsessed from page one!
Intense, hot and emotional this dark romance is angsty and addictive. Ruthless Letters follows Ryker and Elena's whirlwind romance. With dual point of view chapters going back and forth between past and present we see just how far Ryker is willing to go. A bully romance that has the boy falling first, Ryker has a secret, one that involves Elena. Not stopping until he gets what he wants.
This book was hot and steamy and had me wanting more. Ryker was hot and addicting. If you love dark romance this is a stalker romance you will not want to miss.
February 6, 2022
Ruthless Letters is the 1st book in the Captive Writing series. ML Philpitt is a new to me author and I absolutely loved her writing. This was a dark bully romance that had me hooked from beginning to end, however it was so much more than just a bully romance. The plot was a complicated, layered tale filled with unexpected twists that had me totally engrossed and at the edge of my seat for certain scenes. Yes I was frantically turning the pages wanting to know more and I ended up reading this all in one sitting.
This was Riker and Elena's story. He's been bullying her since high school and his obsession with her was intense. He really did put Elena through alot and I'm amazed she kept going and her feeling never changed throughout the story. There was one part where I felt Ryker went too far but thankfully he realized it. Yes he was possessive and controlling but it suited him. He really was a fascinating anti-hero.
This college romance had some serious stalking, revenge, dub-con scenes, steamy scenes, suspense and mystery. There were some secondary characters we met who was integral to the story and I really can't wait to learn more about them in upcoming books.
There's an overarching background story that remains unsolved and I can't wait so see what these guys do next. This was a great start to this series. I loved it and would highly recommend it to lovers of dark romance.
This was Riker and Elena's story. He's been bullying her since high school and his obsession with her was intense. He really did put Elena through alot and I'm amazed she kept going and her feeling never changed throughout the story. There was one part where I felt Ryker went too far but thankfully he realized it. Yes he was possessive and controlling but it suited him. He really was a fascinating anti-hero.
This college romance had some serious stalking, revenge, dub-con scenes, steamy scenes, suspense and mystery. There were some secondary characters we met who was integral to the story and I really can't wait to learn more about them in upcoming books.
There's an overarching background story that remains unsolved and I can't wait so see what these guys do next. This was a great start to this series. I loved it and would highly recommend it to lovers of dark romance.
February 6, 2022
Nothing is as it seems!! This bully romance was everything I had been missing in my last couple of reads! Ryker is horrible and I mean horrible to Elena and she still managed to be strong and come out on top after everything she was put through. Ryker is relentless, possessive and controlling and I am here for it. I love me an unapologetic bad boy! This was one wild and crazy ride that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time because I never knew what was coming up but I knew something was coming. I love that kind of suspense gives you this pull in the pit of your stomach with anticipation. I can’t wait for Tristan & Natalie!!! It’s going to be another epic read!
January 30, 2022
Ruthless Letters is book one in the Captive Writings series and is the first book I've read by M.L. Philpitt. This story was a wild and twisty ride with an Anti-hero that you will hate to love. This is a dark read so please do your due diligence and check the triggers. I am excited to see what happens next in this series.
February 5, 2022
This book started amazingly.
The story was engaging, breathtaking and mysterious.
I loved how the author let the reader discover the truth little by little.
The anguish and curiosity that ignited the more I read.
But then it got confusing.
Ryker was hot, but even though he kept saying Elena was his and the love of his life during high school he fucked many other girls. I'd choose a sexy villain over a boring hero too, but that she had to stay a virgin while he fucked around is not acceptable to me.
Elena is infuriating. She forgave everybody so damn easily and was too understanding. She was too weak for my liking, relied on anybody but herself.
I felt like some aspects were touched too lightly, or explained too quickly, while some other too deeply.
Usually I don’t like book with such darkness among the pages but this one just caught my curiosity.
I’m very glad I read it but there were too many things I didn’t like or couldn’t for the life of me understand.
Still, It was a very interesting reading.
The story was engaging, breathtaking and mysterious.
I loved how the author let the reader discover the truth little by little.
The anguish and curiosity that ignited the more I read.
But then it got confusing.
Ryker was hot, but even though he kept saying Elena was his and the love of his life during high school he fucked many other girls. I'd choose a sexy villain over a boring hero too, but that she had to stay a virgin while he fucked around is not acceptable to me.
Elena is infuriating. She forgave everybody so damn easily and was too understanding. She was too weak for my liking, relied on anybody but herself.
I felt like some aspects were touched too lightly, or explained too quickly, while some other too deeply.
Usually I don’t like book with such darkness among the pages but this one just caught my curiosity.
I’m very glad I read it but there were too many things I didn’t like or couldn’t for the life of me understand.
Still, It was a very interesting reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2022
I have no idea where to start with this book. This is my first bully romance and it was one heck of a book. The miscommunication was horrible and it cost her dam near her life because of something that wasn’t her fault. I wanted to throw my kindle across the room at how stupid Ryker was being sometimes. The smut itself was top teir though, so that was a plus for me. The story was a little all over the place, it started with him hating her mom and then somehow it all became about Alex. Which I guess will become the main focus of the next books to come.
The relationship between the both of them frustrated me to no end because Elena was so naive for most of it, while ryker was lashing out for no reason. So I’m just confused.
The relationship between the both of them frustrated me to no end because Elena was so naive for most of it, while ryker was lashing out for no reason. So I’m just confused.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2022
Ruthless Letters is a bully romance, and while I enjoy antihero stories, this one didn't work for me for the following reasons:
1. The hero was tormenting the heroine because of her mother's actions (this bothers me, and I usually avoid books with this trope)
2. After the heroine loses everything and discovers the true reason... she forgives him. ughhhhhhjhh
3. I like bad and mean guys, but this one was horrible, and this would be less than 300 pages if the hero told the heroine everything the first time she asked instead of shutting her off, which happened several times.
1. The hero was tormenting the heroine because of her mother's actions (this bothers me, and I usually avoid books with this trope)
2. After the heroine loses everything and discovers the true reason... she forgives him. ughhhhhhjhh
3. I like bad and mean guys, but this one was horrible, and this would be less than 300 pages if the hero told the heroine everything the first time she asked instead of shutting her off, which happened several times.
February 6, 2022
Primero que nada muchas gracias netgalley y victory editing por el ARC a cambio de una reseña honesta.
Por estos libros amo netgalley , te da la oportunidad de conocer autores que no conocías y abrirte a nuevos géneros o tropes.
Nunca había leído un bully romance o dark - grey romance porque no los sentía bien escritos. Ruthless letters lo sentí un buen punto de inicio en este trope.
Elena y Ryker se conocen desde la secundaria. Y desde el segundo en que se miran la atracción en inegable. Pero el pasado se involucra llegando así que Ryker se convierta en el n° 1 para hacer posible que Elena viva un infierno ....pero eso no es lo peor o lo mejor en esto....sino que Elena disfruta de la atención que Ryker le está dando. Hasta que una noche todo cambia y Ryker se aleja todo con tal de protegerla....será él el villano que todos creen ?
Los años pasan y Ryker vuelve a la vida de Elena , el bullying de la escuela queda atrás y ahora solo busca venganza. Y dejar a Elena completamente sola y destruida.
------
Me gustó mucho el magnetismo que hay entre Elena y Ryker - tanto en la época del bullying y la venganza - También el como está ordenado los capítulos - Hay unos cuantos que se centran en el pasado y como se va conectando con el presente - No lo sentí tan dark como pensé que sería lo cual como dije es un buen inicio para alguien que quiere leer esta clase de tropes.
Por otro lado el backstory es lo que me tuvo pegada al libro ...tipo que hizo Elena para merecer el infierno que la hacía pasar Ryker , porque Ryker se fue y como esto se relaciona con Elena.
En fin si buscan algo spicy con buena trama sin duda este libro es para ustedes y por lo que tengo entendido conforme cada libro vaya pasando se va volviendo más dark.
TW⚠️ :
-Bullyng
-Acosador
-Mencion de consumo de sustancias
-Mencion de asesinato
-Consentimiento dudoso
-Manipulacion
-Humillacion
Etc.
-------
"I want to be your hero, your villain, even your sidekick. I want to be everything good and bad in your life, because that’s what you are for me."
"he consumes me. My sanity, my heart… and my soul."
Por estos libros amo netgalley , te da la oportunidad de conocer autores que no conocías y abrirte a nuevos géneros o tropes.
Nunca había leído un bully romance o dark - grey romance porque no los sentía bien escritos. Ruthless letters lo sentí un buen punto de inicio en este trope.
Elena y Ryker se conocen desde la secundaria. Y desde el segundo en que se miran la atracción en inegable. Pero el pasado se involucra llegando así que Ryker se convierta en el n° 1 para hacer posible que Elena viva un infierno ....pero eso no es lo peor o lo mejor en esto....sino que Elena disfruta de la atención que Ryker le está dando. Hasta que una noche todo cambia y Ryker se aleja todo con tal de protegerla....será él el villano que todos creen ?
Los años pasan y Ryker vuelve a la vida de Elena , el bullying de la escuela queda atrás y ahora solo busca venganza. Y dejar a Elena completamente sola y destruida.
------
Me gustó mucho el magnetismo que hay entre Elena y Ryker - tanto en la época del bullying y la venganza - También el como está ordenado los capítulos - Hay unos cuantos que se centran en el pasado y como se va conectando con el presente - No lo sentí tan dark como pensé que sería lo cual como dije es un buen inicio para alguien que quiere leer esta clase de tropes.
Por otro lado el backstory es lo que me tuvo pegada al libro ...tipo que hizo Elena para merecer el infierno que la hacía pasar Ryker , porque Ryker se fue y como esto se relaciona con Elena.
En fin si buscan algo spicy con buena trama sin duda este libro es para ustedes y por lo que tengo entendido conforme cada libro vaya pasando se va volviendo más dark.
TW⚠️ :
-Bullyng
-Acosador
-Mencion de consumo de sustancias
-Mencion de asesinato
-Consentimiento dudoso
-Manipulacion
-Humillacion
Etc.
-------
"I want to be your hero, your villain, even your sidekick. I want to be everything good and bad in your life, because that’s what you are for me."
"he consumes me. My sanity, my heart… and my soul."
February 8, 2022
Well this book just blew my mind. I went in this blind just from reading the blurb and damn, damn was it all the thing's I love.
From start to finish your caught up in the cat n mouse game that Elena's HS Bully Ryker played with her in HS and boy let me tell you he's got that stalker/possessiveness down to an art. I don't want to give too much away, but....jaysus was the sex scenes on a whole other level...literally. Tristan said it best "just wait and watch" as Ryker and Elena's chemistry can set the world on fire. You just need to read this book.
Quiet honestly this book sucked me in from the beginning and I never looked up. It was just so damn good. This does have some suspense, which I can't wait for the next book in the series to see how it all plays out. I'd definitely recommend, but there are some triggers and the arthur does specify that, so take heed of the warnings.
From start to finish your caught up in the cat n mouse game that Elena's HS Bully Ryker played with her in HS and boy let me tell you he's got that stalker/possessiveness down to an art. I don't want to give too much away, but....jaysus was the sex scenes on a whole other level...literally. Tristan said it best "just wait and watch" as Ryker and Elena's chemistry can set the world on fire. You just need to read this book.
Quiet honestly this book sucked me in from the beginning and I never looked up. It was just so damn good. This does have some suspense, which I can't wait for the next book in the series to see how it all plays out. I'd definitely recommend, but there are some triggers and the arthur does specify that, so take heed of the warnings.
January 29, 2022
Is Ryker a bully, a villain or a hero?
Ruthless Letters is a bully romance with a heavy lean towards the bullying. It’s not as dark as some bully romances I’ve read but there are still some very harmful results from it. Honestly, the bullying aspect was written exceptionally well, so well in fact, I wanted to throttle Ryker many, many times. I realised there was more to his story and reasons for why he behaved as he did but he totally enjoyed the whole process as well.
There were times when I felt devastated for Elena, absolutely amazed how she could keep going. It was at these times I also wanted to do something drastic to Ryker. 😆 I knew there had to be some big reveal as to why he had put Elena through everything, especially at college and then we find out the first half of the reason is not what I thought it would be yet sort of was! I know clear as mud! 🤦🏻♀️ You just have to read it because it is worthwhile reading.
There is also an element of suspense throughout and not just involving the bullying, it is actually the huge reason behind a lot of things and although, yes, dreadful to think about—very exciting too, to wonder how things will develop.
Is Ryker a bully, a villain or a hero? You’ll need to read this story to find out just like I can’t wait to read the next story, Obsessive Messages, with Tristan and Natalie!
February 6, 2022
I don’t even know where to begin with this review. I am usually not a fan of the bully romance trope. But, this blurb drew me in and I knew I had to read it.
This book. O.M.G. I could not stop reading it. I read it in two sittings only because I had to run errands in between. Otherwise, I would have read it from start to finish in one sitting. Even though the bully parts had me seething, I just couldn’t stop reading it. I had to know the “why” behind Ryker’s bullying. Ryker and Elena are great, well - written characters. Even though it felt wrong, I love Ryker and Elena as a couple.
The betrayal. The misunderstandings. The angst. The spice. This book has it all… and I’m there for it. I cannot wait for the rest of this series to see how everything ends.
This book. O.M.G. I could not stop reading it. I read it in two sittings only because I had to run errands in between. Otherwise, I would have read it from start to finish in one sitting. Even though the bully parts had me seething, I just couldn’t stop reading it. I had to know the “why” behind Ryker’s bullying. Ryker and Elena are great, well - written characters. Even though it felt wrong, I love Ryker and Elena as a couple.
The betrayal. The misunderstandings. The angst. The spice. This book has it all… and I’m there for it. I cannot wait for the rest of this series to see how everything ends.
February 2, 2022
Ok i read this in 24 hours!!! And let me say that this book has not only the spice, but the plot and storyline to go with it!! I am INVESTED yall. Ryker Ames? Possessive af. But the one thing that made him so intriguing is that he is so possessive of Elena, but i felt like always got her consent when things started to get heated. And i absolutely loved that. Elena is also a good FMC; strong, smart woman. Always here for that. I cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series to release. Thank you so much to the author and NextSteppPR for accepting my request for an eARC. I cant wait to post about this and share it with my bookish friends.
January 31, 2022
A dark bully romance, and the dark bullying is nasty! It lasts for 4years until Ryker ends up inside for assault, although we don't get the full reasoning until later on in the book.
Then a few years later when Elena is at university studying criminal law, she finds a letter on her doorstep telling her that he's back and he's taking what's rightfully his ....her!!!
Cue the twists!....a lot of secrets, a lot of cruelty, a lot of passion! A lot of deceit and a lot of me wanting more!!!
It's the first book in a series, the main couple do get their hfn but the background story isn't complete yet and I can't wait to read more!!
Dark, dangerous and hot! 4 stars
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
Then a few years later when Elena is at university studying criminal law, she finds a letter on her doorstep telling her that he's back and he's taking what's rightfully his ....her!!!
Cue the twists!....a lot of secrets, a lot of cruelty, a lot of passion! A lot of deceit and a lot of me wanting more!!!
It's the first book in a series, the main couple do get their hfn but the background story isn't complete yet and I can't wait to read more!!
Dark, dangerous and hot! 4 stars
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review.
February 2, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this book!
Man oh man. I do love a good misunderstanding between two characters that shapes their whole relationship. M.L. Philpitt has created a really interesting cast of characters, and apparently, all of this just gets darker. Can’t wait.
Man oh man. I do love a good misunderstanding between two characters that shapes their whole relationship. M.L. Philpitt has created a really interesting cast of characters, and apparently, all of this just gets darker. Can’t wait.
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