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Nothing they’ll do can hurt me. I’m already broken.
When my stepfather dumps me off at Bainbridge Hall, I can tell I’m in trouble. At the mercy of the brotherhood, I’m forced by my mother’s husband to follow their every command.
I should run. Far, far away.
From the moment I arrive, these bastards test me. Every time they push, another piece of my past trauma is exposed. But I’m stronger than they think I am, and I’ve learned the hard way the only person I can count on is me.
One brooding artist. One football god. And one hate-fueled stepbrother.
Mason.
Bear.
Duke.
The plan is simple. Keep my head down and focus on getting the college degree I so desperately want. But this house is not what it seems, and every door I open reveals a memory I had buried deep, things I had willed myself to forget.
Bainbridge Hall. Where the bastards are beautiful, and my nightmares become reality.
Mason is a 95,000+ word novel, the first book in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall trilogy, centering around three men and one woman. MFMM for now ...
WARNING: This trilogy contains dark elements, graphic content, and situations that some readers may be particularly sensitive to. If you have triggers or are remotely unsure, please contact me. Also, be warned that I don't always know how a series will end or all the underlying secrets until they reveal themselves in the writing process.
When my stepfather dumps me off at Bainbridge Hall, I can tell I’m in trouble. At the mercy of the brotherhood, I’m forced by my mother’s husband to follow their every command.
I should run. Far, far away.
From the moment I arrive, these bastards test me. Every time they push, another piece of my past trauma is exposed. But I’m stronger than they think I am, and I’ve learned the hard way the only person I can count on is me.
One brooding artist. One football god. And one hate-fueled stepbrother.
Mason.
Bear.
Duke.
The plan is simple. Keep my head down and focus on getting the college degree I so desperately want. But this house is not what it seems, and every door I open reveals a memory I had buried deep, things I had willed myself to forget.
Bainbridge Hall. Where the bastards are beautiful, and my nightmares become reality.
Mason is a 95,000+ word novel, the first book in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall trilogy, centering around three men and one woman. MFMM for now ...
WARNING: This trilogy contains dark elements, graphic content, and situations that some readers may be particularly sensitive to. If you have triggers or are remotely unsure, please contact me. Also, be warned that I don't always know how a series will end or all the underlying secrets until they reveal themselves in the writing process.
456 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2023
761 people are currently reading
2975 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 269 reviews
December 6, 2023
honestly idk how to feel about this. A lot of the book was about them just arguing and fighting. Duke, Bear, and Mason act more like strangers than actual friends- as if they only tolerate each other for the frat and now sometimes for Lennon. Sometimes they barely talk to each other and when they do it is primarily disagreements, there's no solidity between the three of them I don't even know how they're supposed to manage anything. I liked Kingston, Archer, and Cannon so much but these guys are a MESS. I expected them to be hard-headed judging from the preview we got of them in the other books but still. And their logic for messing with Elliot is stupid as hell too, bros gotta get their heads outta their asses.
Also, Lennon gotta pick herself tf up. Yea she gotta mouth on her, but that turns to mush the moment she's near one of them. Mason and Duke treat her like shit and yeah sometimes she mouths them off but always lets them back in. Especially with that fool Mason, I swear I wanted to slap that idiot- Duke too. She literally crawls back to Mason, and FOR WHAT?!?! He's not even that interesting (so far)- he reminds me off an off-brand Remy from the Lord of Pain series Like I love enemies to lovers but those two were so annoying, Bear was the only tolerable one but with one weird ass name. Like BEAR? Seriously?!?!
Edit: Didnt really look at the cover of the book till now- but if Mason is supposed to be the guy on the cover I understand why Lennon kept going back. That guy is fine as HELLLL
Also, Lennon gotta pick herself tf up. Yea she gotta mouth on her, but that turns to mush the moment she's near one of them. Mason and Duke treat her like shit and yeah sometimes she mouths them off but always lets them back in. Especially with that fool Mason, I swear I wanted to slap that idiot- Duke too. She literally crawls back to Mason, and FOR WHAT?!?! He's not even that interesting (so far)- he reminds me off an off-brand Remy from the Lord of Pain series Like I love enemies to lovers but those two were so annoying, Bear was the only tolerable one but with one weird ass name. Like BEAR? Seriously?!?!
Edit: Didnt really look at the cover of the book till now- but if Mason is supposed to be the guy on the cover I understand why Lennon kept going back. That guy is fine as HELLLL
March 31, 2023
My Review ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Well let me first say this book was 🔥 - it has twist and heart and angst all wrapped up in it. With Mason being book 1 we get it meet this new group of characters and figure out why Lennon is forced to go to school at KU. Which her stepdad really didn’t give her a choice so when she’s dropped on the doorstep of her stepbrother Dukes house it’s the last place either of them want.
Mason is a big question mark, one minute he’s the sweet guy making sure Lennon is taken care of an teasing then the next he’s this person she doesn’t even know. Definitely a Dr Jeckle an Mr Hyde - but Lennon sweet side of him wants both but is it safe for her….that’s the question.
Duke may hate his stepsister being at school with him but just when you think he’s going to throw my insult on the fire he does something sweet an your like dang it, I’m not sure if I like or hate you lol. So it’s going to be interesting to see what comes to them.
Then there is Bear, an just as his name says that’s what he starts out to Lennon - the big football teddy bear. I loved seeing this as change from the other two. An also so she can feel safe with one of the guys at all times. But what secrets is he hiding an where does he go when his father calls?
This one end on a cliff so you have been warned - it’s a 3 book with each guy taking the lead in the book. So I can’t wait to see what Duke & Bears books bring an some questions that I so need answered haha.
Well let me first say this book was 🔥 - it has twist and heart and angst all wrapped up in it. With Mason being book 1 we get it meet this new group of characters and figure out why Lennon is forced to go to school at KU. Which her stepdad really didn’t give her a choice so when she’s dropped on the doorstep of her stepbrother Dukes house it’s the last place either of them want.
Mason is a big question mark, one minute he’s the sweet guy making sure Lennon is taken care of an teasing then the next he’s this person she doesn’t even know. Definitely a Dr Jeckle an Mr Hyde - but Lennon sweet side of him wants both but is it safe for her….that’s the question.
Duke may hate his stepsister being at school with him but just when you think he’s going to throw my insult on the fire he does something sweet an your like dang it, I’m not sure if I like or hate you lol. So it’s going to be interesting to see what comes to them.
Then there is Bear, an just as his name says that’s what he starts out to Lennon - the big football teddy bear. I loved seeing this as change from the other two. An also so she can feel safe with one of the guys at all times. But what secrets is he hiding an where does he go when his father calls?
This one end on a cliff so you have been warned - it’s a 3 book with each guy taking the lead in the book. So I can’t wait to see what Duke & Bears books bring an some questions that I so need answered haha.
sampled
September 12, 2024This book has been sampled.
I don’t think I’ll be returning to this book because the FMC isn’t one I’d want to read about as an MC. There’s unlikable FMCs who have glaring flaws and that’s the point, and then there’s FMCs who are obviously written as “badass” and “unbreakable”, but the author can’t write them without 2000s YA sassiness.
Which isn’t for me.
James’ books thinly remind me of the Royals of Forsyth series, if I’m honestly, but in a…less inspired way and more obvious derivative?
Anyways, this is sampled. FMC isn’t for me 🥴
I don’t think I’ll be returning to this book because the FMC isn’t one I’d want to read about as an MC. There’s unlikable FMCs who have glaring flaws and that’s the point, and then there’s FMCs who are obviously written as “badass” and “unbreakable”, but the author can’t write them without 2000s YA sassiness.
Which isn’t for me.
James’ books thinly remind me of the Royals of Forsyth series, if I’m honestly, but in a…less inspired way and more obvious derivative?
Anyways, this is sampled. FMC isn’t for me 🥴
March 27, 2023
4.5 ⭐ Steam: 3/5 Strong Language: 4/5 Characters: 5/5 Plot: 4/5
Triggers: Mental Health, Loss of Loved One, A$$ault, Bu!!ying, Violence, K!dnapping, Dark Themes
Mason is Book one in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall series by Leila James. It ends on a cliffhanger. These books are scheduled for rapid release so please don't let that deter you from reading it.
At the beginning of our story, Lennon, our smart mouthed, sassy heroine, is being forcibly dropped off at Bainbridge Hall on Kingston University's illustrious campus to begin her college education. Her wealthy and dubious stepfather has thwarted her plans to attend the local community college because it 'wouldn't look right for his image'. This decision will place her squarely in the path of her step brother, Duke, someone she barely knows. What she does know for certain is that he hates her and her mother. She'd rather be anywhere than here.
Duke, a college senior and head of Bainbridge Hall, has no more say in Lennon's appointment to his home than she does. His father is an original founding member and has nefarious connections everywhere. He doesn't ask. He orders. Duke thinks Lennon is like her gold-digging mother and despite the fact that he's very attracted to her, something he is NOT going to acknowledge, he decides to make her regret crossing his threshold.
By his side are Bear, a college football god and human teddy bear, and Mason, an outwardly perfect package hiding a well of sorrow and turmoil underneath. These three 'take charge' of Lennon's life from her schedule to her very movements. The thing is, if you trap someone in a home with you, they aren't the only effected. Lennon has grit. She won't break and eventually the guys start to bend.
This story is full of complex issues and flawed characters. It's dark and dramatic. A great read.
Triggers: Mental Health, Loss of Loved One, A$$ault, Bu!!ying, Violence, K!dnapping, Dark Themes
Mason is Book one in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall series by Leila James. It ends on a cliffhanger. These books are scheduled for rapid release so please don't let that deter you from reading it.
At the beginning of our story, Lennon, our smart mouthed, sassy heroine, is being forcibly dropped off at Bainbridge Hall on Kingston University's illustrious campus to begin her college education. Her wealthy and dubious stepfather has thwarted her plans to attend the local community college because it 'wouldn't look right for his image'. This decision will place her squarely in the path of her step brother, Duke, someone she barely knows. What she does know for certain is that he hates her and her mother. She'd rather be anywhere than here.
Duke, a college senior and head of Bainbridge Hall, has no more say in Lennon's appointment to his home than she does. His father is an original founding member and has nefarious connections everywhere. He doesn't ask. He orders. Duke thinks Lennon is like her gold-digging mother and despite the fact that he's very attracted to her, something he is NOT going to acknowledge, he decides to make her regret crossing his threshold.
By his side are Bear, a college football god and human teddy bear, and Mason, an outwardly perfect package hiding a well of sorrow and turmoil underneath. These three 'take charge' of Lennon's life from her schedule to her very movements. The thing is, if you trap someone in a home with you, they aren't the only effected. Lennon has grit. She won't break and eventually the guys start to bend.
This story is full of complex issues and flawed characters. It's dark and dramatic. A great read.
March 28, 2023
I loved this authors Hawthorne Boys series, so I couldn't WAIT to start this one (especially since we already got a tease of our boys in the last series!) And it's better than any of my expectations. Seriously, I was glued to my kindle and I just couldn't read fast enough. And then that ending came, and I wish I hadn't read as quickly as I did because OMFG THAT CLIFFY HURTS. I have so many theories, and I cannot wait to see if I'm right or not!
So here we have Lennon, who is forced (by her creepy af stepdad) to move in with her stepbrother, Duke, who hates her, and Bear (the dad of the group) and Mason (the artistic quiet one with some mental instabilities and a looooot of unresolved trauma.) at Bainbridge hall as essentially another initiate, but strange things quickly start happening, and it's all revolved around the quirky, snark, sweet and fabulous heroine who captured my heart as well as these boys attention!
There is so much going on here, and I can't wait for the next book so we can get some answers! Bear is definitely my favorite, and his connection and relationship with Lennon is so genuine and hoooottt! I really hope Duke gets his head on straight because I'm over his hot and cold act, but I just know they would be amazing together if he would just get out of his own way. I'm so curious about Mason, and what happened in his past to make him the person he is today. Honestly, I'm just going to be counting down the days until I have the second book in my hands!
Make sure you one click when this goes live!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
So here we have Lennon, who is forced (by her creepy af stepdad) to move in with her stepbrother, Duke, who hates her, and Bear (the dad of the group) and Mason (the artistic quiet one with some mental instabilities and a looooot of unresolved trauma.) at Bainbridge hall as essentially another initiate, but strange things quickly start happening, and it's all revolved around the quirky, snark, sweet and fabulous heroine who captured my heart as well as these boys attention!
There is so much going on here, and I can't wait for the next book so we can get some answers! Bear is definitely my favorite, and his connection and relationship with Lennon is so genuine and hoooottt! I really hope Duke gets his head on straight because I'm over his hot and cold act, but I just know they would be amazing together if he would just get out of his own way. I'm so curious about Mason, and what happened in his past to make him the person he is today. Honestly, I'm just going to be counting down the days until I have the second book in my hands!
Make sure you one click when this goes live!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions **
March 21, 2023
This book!!! Oh my gosh!!! This book is everything!!! This book is not only my favorite Leila James book, it is a top favorite book of mine ever! I can’t wait to read it again. And I am so excited for the other books. The relationships, the push and pull, the cliffhanger, absolutely incredible. Leila has me on the edge of my seat with this book, and I am loving ever word!
First let’s talk about these three guys. Oh. My. Gosh!!! Duke, Mason and Bear. Each so different and yet so alike. They are everything you want from incredible male characters. Sexy as all heck and their darkness is sooo intriguing. Duke is definitely my favorite, however, Bear and Mason are right behind him. You will love them. You will hate them. And you will be begging for so much more from them. We just skimmed the surface with these three. I can’t wait for so much more.
Lennon what a female character. She is thrown to the wolves. And instead of crumbling she runs with everything thrown at her. She is interesting and wants to heal these guys so badly. Despite getting into some situations, she comes out on top, stronger than before. Again this book is everything. We have barely got what is about to go down, but what Leila gave us is soooo incredible!!! This book is everything! An absolute must read!!!
First let’s talk about these three guys. Oh. My. Gosh!!! Duke, Mason and Bear. Each so different and yet so alike. They are everything you want from incredible male characters. Sexy as all heck and their darkness is sooo intriguing. Duke is definitely my favorite, however, Bear and Mason are right behind him. You will love them. You will hate them. And you will be begging for so much more from them. We just skimmed the surface with these three. I can’t wait for so much more.
Lennon what a female character. She is thrown to the wolves. And instead of crumbling she runs with everything thrown at her. She is interesting and wants to heal these guys so badly. Despite getting into some situations, she comes out on top, stronger than before. Again this book is everything. We have barely got what is about to go down, but what Leila gave us is soooo incredible!!! This book is everything! An absolute must read!!!
March 25, 2023
Leila James has done it again with this book.
I have loved every single book this author has put out and Mason was the same. I absolutely loved the characters and loved the chemistry between all of them.
From the very beginning, I was incredibly curious about what was going on and started coming up with theories on what I think might have happened. I love that this in the same world as the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall series and that we are kind of continuing on things we learned in the first series.
I usually can pick a favorite guy in these books but this time I couldn’t choose. I loved Mason, Bear, and Duke equally. I cannot wait for the next book so we can find out what happens next.
I have loved every single book this author has put out and Mason was the same. I absolutely loved the characters and loved the chemistry between all of them.
From the very beginning, I was incredibly curious about what was going on and started coming up with theories on what I think might have happened. I love that this in the same world as the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall series and that we are kind of continuing on things we learned in the first series.
I usually can pick a favorite guy in these books but this time I couldn’t choose. I loved Mason, Bear, and Duke equally. I cannot wait for the next book so we can find out what happens next.
April 4, 2023
Leila James did it again with this one! Lennon is one lucky lady! Bear stole my heart from the beginning but Mason has definitely worked his way in. As for Duke, he ok for now lol. The more this storyline evolves the more I'm dying to know. There's some interesting stuff revolving around Lennon and I have an idea, I can't wait for book 2 to see what direction this goes.
September 29, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
After reading the ‘Brothers of Hawthorne Hall’ series by Leila, you know I had to read Mason’s book.
We met the guys briefly in the first series and now they have their own… which I am not disappointed by 🥵
Leila has an amazing ability to turn a**hole’s into men you just melt over 🤣
Absolutely loved this book… that cliff hanger though Miss James 😱
Thoroughly recommend this series, Leila James will always be one of my fav authors!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
After reading the ‘Brothers of Hawthorne Hall’ series by Leila, you know I had to read Mason’s book.
We met the guys briefly in the first series and now they have their own… which I am not disappointed by 🥵
Leila has an amazing ability to turn a**hole’s into men you just melt over 🤣
Absolutely loved this book… that cliff hanger though Miss James 😱
Thoroughly recommend this series, Leila James will always be one of my fav authors!
March 26, 2023
So, I'll quickly touch on how I loved the first trilogy and how I didn't know if Leila would be able to top that, and she did with flying colors! I particularly love the sassy and strong heroine who doesn't take any BS and is owned by no one but herself. It made for some amazing banter and push and pull between her and the other characters.
Now...
Can we please talk about MASON for a minute?! My lord, what an original character that is effed up on so many levels that are both intriguing and entertaining at the appropriate times. Not to mention he is dark, dangerous, sensual, complex, and creative in ways that are um...exciting ;) He can be thoughtfully sketching you one moment, and angrily...seducing you the next.
As mentioned above, I thoroughly enjoyed BOHH but I am seriously loving this series even more! Keep going, Leila! Bring it on!!!!
Now...
Can we please talk about MASON for a minute?! My lord, what an original character that is effed up on so many levels that are both intriguing and entertaining at the appropriate times. Not to mention he is dark, dangerous, sensual, complex, and creative in ways that are um...exciting ;) He can be thoughtfully sketching you one moment, and angrily...seducing you the next.
As mentioned above, I thoroughly enjoyed BOHH but I am seriously loving this series even more! Keep going, Leila! Bring it on!!!!
August 20, 2023
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
Decided not to read this series till they were all released, so glad I did, I had a four day binge read.
Stunning work from the author, and a great plot and execution,
Characters are to die for, this is one of my go to authors now .
💋💋💋
Decided not to read this series till they were all released, so glad I did, I had a four day binge read.
Stunning work from the author, and a great plot and execution,
Characters are to die for, this is one of my go to authors now .
November 17, 2023
This book drew me in…but the cliffhanger!! I don’t have time to write more because I need to start the next book immediately!!
Read
September 1, 2024bad. dnf.
April 3, 2023
Darker, more dastardly, and downright devious these Bastards of Bainbridge have come to out to play and I for one was so HERE FOR IT!
Right off, the story hits the ground running and doesn't stop! Leila plunges you deep into the world of Bainbridge Hall letting you know without a doubt that you're no longer within the walls of Hawthorne anymore. It's complex storyline and delicious tension captures you with it's intrigue holding you hostage from beginning to end. It's an unexpected treat leaving you dying to find out more!
Now, you'll have to excuse me for a moment while I gather my thoughts because....JUST HOLY MOTHER FLIPPING WOW! These Bastards are FIRE!! 🔥🥵
Duke Valentine ...the scary hot Alphahole who I couldn’t get enough of. He's such an a$$ throughout most of this story. I was torn between wanting to slap the crap out of him or climb him like a tree by the end of it! ! Belive me, the struggle was REAL!
Bear Pierce....the football God who hides his intelligence behind a tough and rugged exterior. The protective, caveman vibe he's got going on will get you hot but, it's in his sweet, caring, and teddy bear ways that make it impossible not to fall hard and fast for him. He's one sexy beast you'll want to cuddle up with and have him for your very own!
Mason Mikaelson... Troubled artist, intense, crazy, and a little scary...Mason has got sexy bad boy written all over him! His character has some serious demons and will give you whiplash. You never know quite what you're going to get with him. He's the ultimate enigma who leaves you questioning everything.
I love a strong heroine and Lennon Bell is one badass chick! With her sarcasm and take no s*** attitude, she has no trouble going toe to toe with with these Bastards. She's a freaking spitfire full of strength and resilience.... determined to fight against everything thrown her way. You've gotta love a gal who dares these guys to do their worst and comes back swinging.
I'm utterly excited and blown away by this new series! This book is simply PHENOMENAL from beginning to end and all I can say is expect the unexpected because one things for sure....you won't be able to anticipate any damn thing these Bastards are going to do and the scary part is....they're going to make you love it!
I've said it before and I'll say it again.... Leila writes my brand of book crack and after reading this, I'm absolutely ADDICTED...HOOKED...like GIMME that next book NOW because I'm a gal who definitely needs MORE!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own *
Right off, the story hits the ground running and doesn't stop! Leila plunges you deep into the world of Bainbridge Hall letting you know without a doubt that you're no longer within the walls of Hawthorne anymore. It's complex storyline and delicious tension captures you with it's intrigue holding you hostage from beginning to end. It's an unexpected treat leaving you dying to find out more!
Now, you'll have to excuse me for a moment while I gather my thoughts because....JUST HOLY MOTHER FLIPPING WOW! These Bastards are FIRE!! 🔥🥵
Duke Valentine ...the scary hot Alphahole who I couldn’t get enough of. He's such an a$$ throughout most of this story. I was torn between wanting to slap the crap out of him or climb him like a tree by the end of it! ! Belive me, the struggle was REAL!
Bear Pierce....the football God who hides his intelligence behind a tough and rugged exterior. The protective, caveman vibe he's got going on will get you hot but, it's in his sweet, caring, and teddy bear ways that make it impossible not to fall hard and fast for him. He's one sexy beast you'll want to cuddle up with and have him for your very own!
Mason Mikaelson... Troubled artist, intense, crazy, and a little scary...Mason has got sexy bad boy written all over him! His character has some serious demons and will give you whiplash. You never know quite what you're going to get with him. He's the ultimate enigma who leaves you questioning everything.
I love a strong heroine and Lennon Bell is one badass chick! With her sarcasm and take no s*** attitude, she has no trouble going toe to toe with with these Bastards. She's a freaking spitfire full of strength and resilience.... determined to fight against everything thrown her way. You've gotta love a gal who dares these guys to do their worst and comes back swinging.
I'm utterly excited and blown away by this new series! This book is simply PHENOMENAL from beginning to end and all I can say is expect the unexpected because one things for sure....you won't be able to anticipate any damn thing these Bastards are going to do and the scary part is....they're going to make you love it!
I've said it before and I'll say it again.... Leila writes my brand of book crack and after reading this, I'm absolutely ADDICTED...HOOKED...like GIMME that next book NOW because I'm a gal who definitely needs MORE!
*I was generously given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review. All opinions are my own *
April 2, 2023
Thank you Leila for the ARC.
Mason is book one in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall series. Lennon is unexpectedly shipped off to live with her stepbrother, Duke, and his friends. As you can imagine, initially it doesn’t go over well. All the guys come from powerful families that have their hands involved in basically everything. High expectations are placed and expected to be met. There are a lot of moving pieces and history. I really enjoyed getting to know the personalities of these characters. To see them evolve. It’s pretty easy to spot the broken pieces of someone when they mirror your own and I think that’s why the pull here is pretty immediate. This series is beautifully written and flows effortlessly. The characters really complement one another. We experience great world building, setting things up to really excel in the next book. Can’t wait to read it.
“Come on now, little gazelle. You’re going to have to learn to play nice with Duke.”
"I hope you'll decide to take that lesson and learn it now, because every time I need to reteach you, the consequence you reap will be worse.”
“The problem is you're hovering somewhere between reality and your nightmares."
"Watch it, or I'lI start calling you Daddy instead."
"She's like riding a roller coaster without being belted in. Terrifying in an exhilarating fuckin' way."
“Make me forget, Mason.”
"That's where you're wrong, Lennon. Loneliness is a second skin to the soul that is forced to wear it. Damaged people damage people. The only time I'm truly at ease is when I'm alone."
“The outward expression of our pain is a window into the harsh reality of the darkness that lives inside us.”
“If we take this further, I will wreck you.”
“If I let you in, let you see me fully, I will ruin you.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Description:
When my stepfather dumps me off at Bainbridge Hall, I can tell I’m in trouble. At the mercy of the brotherhood, I’m forced by my mother’s husband to follow their every command. I should run. Far, far away. From the moment I arrive, these bastards test me. Every time they push, another piece of my past trauma is exposed. But I’m stronger than they think I am, and I’ve learned the hard way the only person I can count on is me. One brooding artist. One football god. And one hate-fueled stepbrother. Mason. Bear. Duke. The plan is simple. Keep my head down and focus on getting the college degree I so desperately want. But this house is not what it seems, and every door I open reveals a memory I had buried deep, things I had willed myself to forget. Bainbridge Hall. Where the bastards are beautiful, and my nightmares become reality.
Mason is book one in the Bastards of Bainbridge Hall series. Lennon is unexpectedly shipped off to live with her stepbrother, Duke, and his friends. As you can imagine, initially it doesn’t go over well. All the guys come from powerful families that have their hands involved in basically everything. High expectations are placed and expected to be met. There are a lot of moving pieces and history. I really enjoyed getting to know the personalities of these characters. To see them evolve. It’s pretty easy to spot the broken pieces of someone when they mirror your own and I think that’s why the pull here is pretty immediate. This series is beautifully written and flows effortlessly. The characters really complement one another. We experience great world building, setting things up to really excel in the next book. Can’t wait to read it.
“Come on now, little gazelle. You’re going to have to learn to play nice with Duke.”
"I hope you'll decide to take that lesson and learn it now, because every time I need to reteach you, the consequence you reap will be worse.”
“The problem is you're hovering somewhere between reality and your nightmares."
"Watch it, or I'lI start calling you Daddy instead."
"She's like riding a roller coaster without being belted in. Terrifying in an exhilarating fuckin' way."
“Make me forget, Mason.”
"That's where you're wrong, Lennon. Loneliness is a second skin to the soul that is forced to wear it. Damaged people damage people. The only time I'm truly at ease is when I'm alone."
“The outward expression of our pain is a window into the harsh reality of the darkness that lives inside us.”
“If we take this further, I will wreck you.”
“If I let you in, let you see me fully, I will ruin you.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Description:
When my stepfather dumps me off at Bainbridge Hall, I can tell I’m in trouble. At the mercy of the brotherhood, I’m forced by my mother’s husband to follow their every command. I should run. Far, far away. From the moment I arrive, these bastards test me. Every time they push, another piece of my past trauma is exposed. But I’m stronger than they think I am, and I’ve learned the hard way the only person I can count on is me. One brooding artist. One football god. And one hate-fueled stepbrother. Mason. Bear. Duke. The plan is simple. Keep my head down and focus on getting the college degree I so desperately want. But this house is not what it seems, and every door I open reveals a memory I had buried deep, things I had willed myself to forget. Bainbridge Hall. Where the bastards are beautiful, and my nightmares become reality.
March 23, 2023
Be prepared for the best new series from the amazing Leila James. We all fell hard for Hawthorne Hall but be ready because Bastards of Bainbridge Hall is going to destroy you in all the best ways. These men are unpredictable, passionate, strong, resilient, hot as sin, broken, damaged, and all need to find some peace in their lives. The Bastards are Drake, Bear, and Mason. In Book 1 we meet them all as well as our leading lady who will tame these wild men...Lennon Bell. Lennon has been placed in Bainbridge Hall by her stepfather Tristan Valentine (Drake's Father) Oh yes Drake is her hot and oh so moody stepbrother but he also has a connection to Kingston (Hawthorne Hall) so be prepared for that bomb to drop and you will be stunned. I mean jaw dropping OMG moments that will leave you speechless. It's that good!!
Bear is the football god on the field but he is protective and caring to everyone especially Lennon. He takes to protecting her right from the start when she arrives in the house because he doesn't know what it is about her but he can't stay away. He sees the lust and desire in his friends, Drake & Mason as well. He knows she could bring them all to their knees without even trying and he is more than willing to go there for her! She has slowly consumed his every thought and his need to protect her especially from his father is that much stronger when secrets begin to be unraveled.
Mason is a broken soul. He has had so much trauma and violence in his young life that he doesn't know how to control all these emotions within him. His father is not present but his grasp is still firmly holding Mason to be accountable to his actions. He doesn't get along with Drake but since they have to be united to run the brotherhood he will make some concessions. However, when it comes to Lennon he can't control his desire and need for her. She has consumed his thoughts and his rage is starting to bleed out into the world when he tries so hard to keep it contained. She is doing wicked things to him and he doesn't know how to stop his mind or his body from consuming her completely. He's a broken soul and it's heartbreaking to see what he has gone through and still struggles with everyday but he is an amazing character who you will fall hard and fast for!
Lennon is strong, resilient, and fighting some nightmares and terrors of her own. She has been dropped into Bainbridge Hall with no explanation but that is how Tristan Valentine works so she is not surprised by this in the slightest. However, Drake, Bear, & Mason are consuming her thoughts and her desires. She wants them all but she doesn't know if she can have it without destroying herself in the process. The nightmares are getting worse and being here with these men she is slowly starting to piece things together from her past. However, when the past comes back to haunt her the nightmares become all consuming and she knows she must figure it out before it overtakes her life more than it already has!
This story has so many twists and turns that you feel like you've been on a roller coaster from the very beginning. These characters are so deep and very sexy but the story will suck you within the first few pages. There is so much to unpack with these Bastards & Lennon that I have no idea what or where their story will lead but I know it is going to a phenomenal ride. Buckle up because Bainbridge Hall is not only filled with bastards but it's filled with secrets and lies! Happy Reading!!
Bear is the football god on the field but he is protective and caring to everyone especially Lennon. He takes to protecting her right from the start when she arrives in the house because he doesn't know what it is about her but he can't stay away. He sees the lust and desire in his friends, Drake & Mason as well. He knows she could bring them all to their knees without even trying and he is more than willing to go there for her! She has slowly consumed his every thought and his need to protect her especially from his father is that much stronger when secrets begin to be unraveled.
Mason is a broken soul. He has had so much trauma and violence in his young life that he doesn't know how to control all these emotions within him. His father is not present but his grasp is still firmly holding Mason to be accountable to his actions. He doesn't get along with Drake but since they have to be united to run the brotherhood he will make some concessions. However, when it comes to Lennon he can't control his desire and need for her. She has consumed his thoughts and his rage is starting to bleed out into the world when he tries so hard to keep it contained. She is doing wicked things to him and he doesn't know how to stop his mind or his body from consuming her completely. He's a broken soul and it's heartbreaking to see what he has gone through and still struggles with everyday but he is an amazing character who you will fall hard and fast for!
Lennon is strong, resilient, and fighting some nightmares and terrors of her own. She has been dropped into Bainbridge Hall with no explanation but that is how Tristan Valentine works so she is not surprised by this in the slightest. However, Drake, Bear, & Mason are consuming her thoughts and her desires. She wants them all but she doesn't know if she can have it without destroying herself in the process. The nightmares are getting worse and being here with these men she is slowly starting to piece things together from her past. However, when the past comes back to haunt her the nightmares become all consuming and she knows she must figure it out before it overtakes her life more than it already has!
This story has so many twists and turns that you feel like you've been on a roller coaster from the very beginning. These characters are so deep and very sexy but the story will suck you within the first few pages. There is so much to unpack with these Bastards & Lennon that I have no idea what or where their story will lead but I know it is going to a phenomenal ride. Buckle up because Bainbridge Hall is not only filled with bastards but it's filled with secrets and lies! Happy Reading!!
October 9, 2024
Mason
Book 1 of the Bainbridge hall series, read kingston Hawthorne Hall series first. I've been dying to read this series since I finished the first one and I loved this.
Lennon shows up at Bainbridge with her step father, he won't tell her why she's there, but agree had no choice. Her step brother Duke hates her (or does he...), and she's not thrilled to be in his company.
Mason has a past that makes him have nightmares, but he can't always tell if he's dreaming it or it's real. When he first sees Lennon he sees red, and it's because she's so disturbingly similar to someone in the past. Mase can be sweet one minute and if the trails the next. The cliffhanger on this one has me needing to start book 2 immediately.
Duke seems to dispuse her because of her connection with Juliette (the love he lost), but also because he's attracted to his step sister and knows he shouldn't be. So he makes hurtful comments to keep her at a distance.
Bear is the football player who steps in as a somewhat protector of Lennon.. he's a giant teddy bear. I can't wait for more on him in the next book. Lennon ends up in 2 unfortunate events with small places and I'm still guessing who's behind it.
Book 1 of the Bainbridge hall series, read kingston Hawthorne Hall series first. I've been dying to read this series since I finished the first one and I loved this.
Lennon shows up at Bainbridge with her step father, he won't tell her why she's there, but agree had no choice. Her step brother Duke hates her (or does he...), and she's not thrilled to be in his company.
Mason has a past that makes him have nightmares, but he can't always tell if he's dreaming it or it's real. When he first sees Lennon he sees red, and it's because she's so disturbingly similar to someone in the past. Mase can be sweet one minute and if the trails the next. The cliffhanger on this one has me needing to start book 2 immediately.
Duke seems to dispuse her because of her connection with Juliette (the love he lost), but also because he's attracted to his step sister and knows he shouldn't be. So he makes hurtful comments to keep her at a distance.
Bear is the football player who steps in as a somewhat protector of Lennon.. he's a giant teddy bear. I can't wait for more on him in the next book. Lennon ends up in 2 unfortunate events with small places and I'm still guessing who's behind it.
April 30, 2023
So going in I thought this one would be a lot like Hawthorn, but it really wasn’t. I wouldn’t call this a bully romance, which was completely fine, I guess I just kind of expected it.
Bear so far is my favorite, though I love Mason’s crazy and Duke’s assholery. I can already see where our MM will be coming from and I think maybe its already happened in the past from the vibes they give off. I won’t say I love this one as much as the first series, because right now I did find it kind of fell flat. Like not a whole lot of plot happened, we find out some interesting things about Lennon, but I’m ready to get to the dark side of things.
Lennon is thrown in Bainbridge Hall by her cringy step dad, and we have the whole step brother trope with Duke. Mason is the “scary” one who tries to choke her to death…but she happened to be sleepwalking like wtf lol. Bear is the protective daddy which yes please. He keeps them all in line. I’m excited to get more into the story in Bear! And I can’t wait to see Duke’s cover!
Bear so far is my favorite, though I love Mason’s crazy and Duke’s assholery. I can already see where our MM will be coming from and I think maybe its already happened in the past from the vibes they give off. I won’t say I love this one as much as the first series, because right now I did find it kind of fell flat. Like not a whole lot of plot happened, we find out some interesting things about Lennon, but I’m ready to get to the dark side of things.
Lennon is thrown in Bainbridge Hall by her cringy step dad, and we have the whole step brother trope with Duke. Mason is the “scary” one who tries to choke her to death…but she happened to be sleepwalking like wtf lol. Bear is the protective daddy which yes please. He keeps them all in line. I’m excited to get more into the story in Bear! And I can’t wait to see Duke’s cover!
April 3, 2023
Oh Mason, my heart. Once again, Leila has outdone herself and started this series off with an absolute BANG! Lennon's introduction to Kingston University and Bainbridge Hall is a rough one, I do not envy her that! But having Mason, Duke, and Bear along for the ride, now THAT I'm envious of! This trilogy is going to be my new favorite of hers, I am telling you that right now! Her ability to immerse you in the story, follow all the twist and turns, shocking moments and cliffhanger surprises is truly unparalleled! I love Mason, and I am DYING to get my hands on Bear! His book can't come soon enough! See y'all on another page!
November 16, 2023
This is was pretty good! I didn’t find it dark.
Lennon is forced by her stepfather to go to university with her stepbrother Duke. He drops her off at their fraternity/ house where he lives with Bear and Mason. She has been told she must do as they say but they don’t really make her do anything except run around the house ten time!
They all fall in love (obvs) but nothing happens with Duke in this one except a forced kiss.
Lennon is forced by her stepfather to go to university with her stepbrother Duke. He drops her off at their fraternity/ house where he lives with Bear and Mason. She has been told she must do as they say but they don’t really make her do anything except run around the house ten time!
They all fall in love (obvs) but nothing happens with Duke in this one except a forced kiss.
September 16, 2023
I like her books.. however the first one is always my least fav because of the bullying, secrets and whole getting to know each other.. but I like it. I love Mason (it’s always the broken ones for me)
April 8, 2023
Mason My Kintsukuroi🥹
Bear Little Gazelle 🥹
Duke Stella Bella 🥹
Beauty meeting Savagery 🖤
We need Bear’s read pronto!!!🥰
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 7, 2025
It’s mid and underwhelming but god damn it, that ending gave me decent whiplash! Promptly downloading book 2
July 29, 2025
⭐️4.25
March 22, 2024
Enjoying these Leila James books while I patiently wait for the next Royals of Forsyth book. There are elements to this that are very similar to the Dukes of Ruin storyline in the Forsyth books, but it’s not enough to deter from the enjoyment.
March 26, 2023
She does it again! I think this group has surpassed the brothers of Hawthorne! I've loved everything you have written. It seems we always get the mystery and the spice wrapped up perfectly! Bear is such a teddy bear...Duke is a grump but he's slowly coming around..and mason....he's perfect. The cliffhanger! Can't wait to see where you take this series!
August 9, 2023
If you’re like me and loved the Brothers of Hawthorne Hall series, I like you’ll like this. I loved the spice in Hawthorne Hall, but wow she cranked it up a notch in this so far.
I’m really enjoying FMC Lennon. She’s sassy and she doesn’t take shit from anyone. The chemistry between Lennon and the MCs is good and I can’t wait to for Bear and Duke’s books so we can get more of a grasp on these guys.
Reading the completed Brothers of Hawthorne Hall trilogy first isn’t necessary, but there is some crossover as they take place on the same campus. Either way, I think that trilogy is very underrated and is worth reading as well!
This is the first book in the trilogy, so this does end on a cliffhanger.
Tropes/Highlights:
- College Bully Romance
- Forced proximity
- Why Choose
- MMFM
- Multiple POV
Please check TWs/CWs before reading.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
I received this as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I’m really enjoying FMC Lennon. She’s sassy and she doesn’t take shit from anyone. The chemistry between Lennon and the MCs is good and I can’t wait to for Bear and Duke’s books so we can get more of a grasp on these guys.
Reading the completed Brothers of Hawthorne Hall trilogy first isn’t necessary, but there is some crossover as they take place on the same campus. Either way, I think that trilogy is very underrated and is worth reading as well!
This is the first book in the trilogy, so this does end on a cliffhanger.
Tropes/Highlights:
- College Bully Romance
- Forced proximity
- Why Choose
- MMFM
- Multiple POV
Please check TWs/CWs before reading.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
I received this as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
May 17, 2023
I felt like I was reading a vanilla version of Lords of Pain. DNF at 30%.
July 25, 2023
I’m in the minority in this one. I tried but Lennon is annoying! Enough said.
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