kfriend's review
5.0
HOLY SMOKES. I’m left speechless- tears still misting in my eyes from the surprisingly bittersweet epilogue, heart pounding, butterflies in my tummy. I knew I’d enjoy his book- I love everything Siobhan does, but I never expected to have been so ravished by it, to fall so deeply in love with my now-favorite Siobhan book boyfriend Jackson (sorry Kai and Saint!), nor to feel so profoundly moved by the story of our heroine Vanessa and the soulful, tender, cathartic romance with Jackson.
We know and love Jackson from the stories we’ve already read, but in HIS book we get Jackson 2.0. The same fun loving, snarky, charming lady killer that we all grew to adore, also the same man that we realized was masking some deep emotional baggage that he’s camouflaging with his swagger and penchant for chemically medicating his pain and rage. Here, he’s evolved- we get to see more of his substance and depth. I knew there was more to Jackson, but I had no clue just how nuanced and dynamic Jackson was beneath his sassy veneer. Holy hell- this man moves me. He’s swoon worthy and delicious in the best ways - dirty talker, sexy AF, a veritable Adonis, and I’m pretty sure he could charm on the pants off a snake. But, what really made me swoon was his heart- the little cracks of true depth we see as this story slowly chips away at his facade until this beautiful, tender yet strong man appears. His loyalty, his conviction, his protectiveness combined with a sweetness and gentleness, a delicate and raw vulnerability all worked in perfect concert to create this perfect and soulful symphony of a man. So much depth- he’s more than just a pretty boy. And when he says “ I have something to say….”- lord, hold on to your heart and your panties.
And Nessa. I tear up just thinking about how beautiful of a spirit she is- what a revelation she was for me. I was not prepared to love, admire, and relate to this complex heroine nor for her to be my favorite SB woman. Like so many of us, she just wants to matter to someone, to be worthy of selfless love. To find some real connection in a sea of half truths. She wants to be seen- her pain and survival to be valued. This Nessa is nothing like the party girl Vanessa we had heard about and thought we knew- and even what we DO know about her has been completely misunderstood. We see that she’s sweet and caring, devoted and spirited. She’s also hurt and lost, insecure and tentative. But, at her core, she’s a fighter- not just for herself, but for those she loves, for what is right. I don’t just love her- I FLOVE HER. This says a lot, but I think she’s been through the ringer more than any other SD heroine-she’s broken by it, but not yet shattered. She’s resilient and even after all the harm she’s experienced from this f’ed up Elite world around her, she somehow still unflinchingly opens her heart to someone she knows can, and will, break it- she still has hope at her core. She left me feeling raw and exposed- moved and inspired by her bravery.
And them and a couple- O..MY.GOD. The connection between Jackson and Nessa is emotional, the chemistry explosive. Both characters are coping in harmful ways to try to survive and numb their personal adversity, both have trapped themselves in the protective armour of the allusions they’ve created about themselves so they can protect the truths- that they are hurting, that they are lost, that they are angry and sad. And, both find each other when they are both fighting to shift their lives- each figuring out who they are as adults and people outside of the painful histories that they’ve allowed to define them. And that leads to some earth shattering romance- yes, all the good steam, but even more so it was like watching two perfectly matched souls collide and then slowly weave themselves together thread by delicate thread. Their relationship feels natural and authentic as they become partners, as their love for each other reshapes what they thought was their purpose and helps them heal the pain that has consumed them both. Siobhan’s writing approach here was also nothing short of inspired- the first ½ of the book is intimate and slower paced, mostly one-on-one, with our leads mostly isolated from the pack- which really helps us swim around in this powerful connection before we get too deep into the intrigue and makes the drama to come that much more impactful.
And oh my- I have missed the Rydeville Elite world. Side by side with this touching, vibrant, and dynamic love story we have the seedy drama from the nefarious Elite. We get the page turning action and twists, the “just in time to save” the day moments that keep my heart pounding, and we get this kooky and endearing motley crue of Rydeville couples (and future couples) that have become this intense and functional family who support and protect other. I LOVE this crew- and I’m so glad we get time with each of them. Also- Sawyer REALLY shows up in this story in a fantastic way- and now I can’t wait for what is next from him.
Has this just become my favorite Siobhan story of all time?! This woman consistently rocks me- brings new and exciting characters and heart pounding stories into my life, but Jackson is truly spectacular- a story that I’m still left thinking, still left FEELING in my heart and soul days later. My words will never do it justice, so just pick it up and find out for yourself- you’ll find that the story of Jackson and Vanessa is surprising and shattering, beautiful and sweet- Siobhan, you continue to amaze me, but you've shattered and rebuilt my heart with this epic tale of two individuals recovering from their pain while also discovering themselves in their love for each other. I LOVE THIS STORY SO MUCH. I can’t wait to see what is in store next!
We know and love Jackson from the stories we’ve already read, but in HIS book we get Jackson 2.0. The same fun loving, snarky, charming lady killer that we all grew to adore, also the same man that we realized was masking some deep emotional baggage that he’s camouflaging with his swagger and penchant for chemically medicating his pain and rage. Here, he’s evolved- we get to see more of his substance and depth. I knew there was more to Jackson, but I had no clue just how nuanced and dynamic Jackson was beneath his sassy veneer. Holy hell- this man moves me. He’s swoon worthy and delicious in the best ways - dirty talker, sexy AF, a veritable Adonis, and I’m pretty sure he could charm on the pants off a snake. But, what really made me swoon was his heart- the little cracks of true depth we see as this story slowly chips away at his facade until this beautiful, tender yet strong man appears. His loyalty, his conviction, his protectiveness combined with a sweetness and gentleness, a delicate and raw vulnerability all worked in perfect concert to create this perfect and soulful symphony of a man. So much depth- he’s more than just a pretty boy. And when he says “ I have something to say….”- lord, hold on to your heart and your panties.
And Nessa. I tear up just thinking about how beautiful of a spirit she is- what a revelation she was for me. I was not prepared to love, admire, and relate to this complex heroine nor for her to be my favorite SB woman. Like so many of us, she just wants to matter to someone, to be worthy of selfless love. To find some real connection in a sea of half truths. She wants to be seen- her pain and survival to be valued. This Nessa is nothing like the party girl Vanessa we had heard about and thought we knew- and even what we DO know about her has been completely misunderstood. We see that she’s sweet and caring, devoted and spirited. She’s also hurt and lost, insecure and tentative. But, at her core, she’s a fighter- not just for herself, but for those she loves, for what is right. I don’t just love her- I FLOVE HER. This says a lot, but I think she’s been through the ringer more than any other SD heroine-she’s broken by it, but not yet shattered. She’s resilient and even after all the harm she’s experienced from this f’ed up Elite world around her, she somehow still unflinchingly opens her heart to someone she knows can, and will, break it- she still has hope at her core. She left me feeling raw and exposed- moved and inspired by her bravery.
And them and a couple- O..MY.GOD. The connection between Jackson and Nessa is emotional, the chemistry explosive. Both characters are coping in harmful ways to try to survive and numb their personal adversity, both have trapped themselves in the protective armour of the allusions they’ve created about themselves so they can protect the truths- that they are hurting, that they are lost, that they are angry and sad. And, both find each other when they are both fighting to shift their lives- each figuring out who they are as adults and people outside of the painful histories that they’ve allowed to define them. And that leads to some earth shattering romance- yes, all the good steam, but even more so it was like watching two perfectly matched souls collide and then slowly weave themselves together thread by delicate thread. Their relationship feels natural and authentic as they become partners, as their love for each other reshapes what they thought was their purpose and helps them heal the pain that has consumed them both. Siobhan’s writing approach here was also nothing short of inspired- the first ½ of the book is intimate and slower paced, mostly one-on-one, with our leads mostly isolated from the pack- which really helps us swim around in this powerful connection before we get too deep into the intrigue and makes the drama to come that much more impactful.
And oh my- I have missed the Rydeville Elite world. Side by side with this touching, vibrant, and dynamic love story we have the seedy drama from the nefarious Elite. We get the page turning action and twists, the “just in time to save” the day moments that keep my heart pounding, and we get this kooky and endearing motley crue of Rydeville couples (and future couples) that have become this intense and functional family who support and protect other. I LOVE this crew- and I’m so glad we get time with each of them. Also- Sawyer REALLY shows up in this story in a fantastic way- and now I can’t wait for what is next from him.
Has this just become my favorite Siobhan story of all time?! This woman consistently rocks me- brings new and exciting characters and heart pounding stories into my life, but Jackson is truly spectacular- a story that I’m still left thinking, still left FEELING in my heart and soul days later. My words will never do it justice, so just pick it up and find out for yourself- you’ll find that the story of Jackson and Vanessa is surprising and shattering, beautiful and sweet- Siobhan, you continue to amaze me, but you've shattered and rebuilt my heart with this epic tale of two individuals recovering from their pain while also discovering themselves in their love for each other. I LOVE THIS STORY SO MUCH. I can’t wait to see what is in store next!
renee_lewis81's review against another edition
5.0
This book is connected to Rydeville Elite. I recommend reading these in order as to not spoil anything, even though this is technically a standalone it follows a lot if old and new elite.
Jackson is part of the new elite and is trying hard to find it what happened to make his sister unalive herself. He thinks Vanessa is the key to that and begins to use her to get answers. But what he didn’t account for was getting his feelings involved.
Story 4.5⭐️
Spice 5⭐️
Jackson is part of the new elite and is trying hard to find it what happened to make his sister unalive herself. He thinks Vanessa is the key to that and begins to use her to get answers. But what he didn’t account for was getting his feelings involved.
Story 4.5⭐️
Spice 5⭐️
angelastone's review against another edition
5.0
4.25 I’ve loved Jackson in all the books so I really liked getting to see more of him and all that he’s gone through.
kodom251999's review against another edition
5.0
Jackson’s time to grow up. I loved him in the other books, but he had to grow up to settle the score. I hate these Elite people. They have a total disregard for women. He’s is fighting for his sister, and will truly do anything for her.
Vanessa is a beautiful girl. She has lived thru horrific events. She fell in love with Jackson, and never saw him coming. Coming to terms with his love for Vanessa, he realizes that he might not be able to have her and settle the score for his sister.
I truly felt bad for Vanessa. We know the things she’s been thru, and Jackson pushed her. I totally loved that she put herself back together. She did it on her own. I loved her fight and spirit.
I was blown away by the twist in this book. It seriously was like being dropped from an airplane. My stomach plummeted. In the end we know all know we are going to love them, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
Vanessa is a beautiful girl. She has lived thru horrific events. She fell in love with Jackson, and never saw him coming. Coming to terms with his love for Vanessa, he realizes that he might not be able to have her and settle the score for his sister.
I truly felt bad for Vanessa. We know the things she’s been thru, and Jackson pushed her. I totally loved that she put herself back together. She did it on her own. I loved her fight and spirit.
I was blown away by the twist in this book. It seriously was like being dropped from an airplane. My stomach plummeted. In the end we know all know we are going to love them, and I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
somandalicious's review against another edition
2.0
Meh
I love this Author and I was really excited to read Jackson’s story. Maybe it was my own high expectations that led to the disappointment but I felt like I was constantly missing something and Vanessa and Jackson lacked chemistry. The plot was wild but I don’t expect anything else from Siobhan.
I love this Author and I was really excited to read Jackson’s story. Maybe it was my own high expectations that led to the disappointment but I felt like I was constantly missing something and Vanessa and Jackson lacked chemistry. The plot was wild but I don’t expect anything else from Siobhan.
bookworm0094's review
5.0
This book was AMAZING!! Every book by this author seems to get better and better. She takes us on an emotional, rough roller coaster of a ride. Jackson and Vanessa are a perfect pair. Their story was heartbreaking and messy. It was dark and twisted.
If you haven’t read the first in the series, Cruel Intentions, I recommend you start with that one just so you can have more of an appreciation for Jackson. His transformation throughout the series is so strong and totally worth the time to start with Abby’s story. I also think you’ll want a better understanding of the Elite in order to appreciate Jackson and the gang’s thirst for revenge.
I can’t wait for Sawyer’s story. Looking forward reading more about Rydeville.
If you haven’t read the first in the series, Cruel Intentions, I recommend you start with that one just so you can have more of an appreciation for Jackson. His transformation throughout the series is so strong and totally worth the time to start with Abby’s story. I also think you’ll want a better understanding of the Elite in order to appreciate Jackson and the gang’s thirst for revenge.
I can’t wait for Sawyer’s story. Looking forward reading more about Rydeville.
laineypops1990's review
3.0
This book was ok. I didn’t enjoy it as much as the main book. I listened to it on audible and the narrator really put me off.
books_and_chocolat3's review
5.0
I’m picky and I prefer the first original series with Kai and Abby BUT honestly all of this author’s books deserve 5 stars … this book was so addicting and sexy ! I can’t believe the talent of Siobhan in her writing .. I don’t understand that I had not heard of her before ! Her books are absolutely brilliant … and I can’t believe I have to wait 5 days for Sawyer’s book ! If you like enemies to lovers , smut , addictive storyline, plot twists, dark romance it’s for you !
booksiflove's review
5.0
Damn, this book was was a fantastic ride back in the Rydeville world!!
Jackson is looking to revenge what has happened to his sister Dani. He thinks Vanessa is one key to help him, and starts to get close to her to get information out of her.
Vanessa, didn’t have it easy in her life, not at all, but she’s a tough girl and getting on with her life. Soaking up Jackson’s attention, until one day her heart gets shredded.
As always, Siobhan’s books have me hooked! They are exciting, thrilling, with ups and downs, twists and turns you don’t see coming!!!
I loved Vanessa’s strength, how she held her head up high, and conquered everything thrown at her!!! Jackson, the troubled one, finally found a partner he could lean on, confide in. These two are a perfect match for each other.
Seeing a lot of the Rydeville family in this book, and not only them!, I can’t wait to read more of this group!
I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review
Jackson is looking to revenge what has happened to his sister Dani. He thinks Vanessa is one key to help him, and starts to get close to her to get information out of her.
Vanessa, didn’t have it easy in her life, not at all, but she’s a tough girl and getting on with her life. Soaking up Jackson’s attention, until one day her heart gets shredded.
As always, Siobhan’s books have me hooked! They are exciting, thrilling, with ups and downs, twists and turns you don’t see coming!!!
I loved Vanessa’s strength, how she held her head up high, and conquered everything thrown at her!!! Jackson, the troubled one, finally found a partner he could lean on, confide in. These two are a perfect match for each other.
Seeing a lot of the Rydeville family in this book, and not only them!, I can’t wait to read more of this group!
I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review
hollyannebrady's review against another edition
5.0
Jackson is the fourth book in the Rydeville series. This book can be read as a standalone as it explains all characters it comes to contact with, however I read the first three books before I read this book and found that more enjoyable. This book is about Jackson and Vanessa (Nessa). This book is told from duel points of view which is my favorite writing style. It lets you know what both characters are thinking and feeling.
Jackson was one of my favorite characters in the first three books. He was always there to have a good time. However in this book you discover he has his own secrets and wants pay back for what happened to his sister. He wants to go after the man involved, but the man involved is in hiding, so he goes after the next best target. His daughter Vanessa.
Vanessa is just trying to get through life. She has had a rough upbringing. Her stepfather kicked her out of the house once she turned 18 and she's still trying to protect her siblings from a distance. Vanessa has never met or even heard of her father and older brother.
Jackson makes Vanessa fall for him over the summer to try to get intel from her, not realizing she doesn't know anything going on. Jackson feels she's playing him and gets really angry and wants to make her life hell, not realizing she has already been there and back. Protective Jackson is my new favorite. I liked his funny stoner days, but I think I like protective Jackson much better. Can Vanessa forgive Jackson for how he treated her? Can she trust him again?
I really loved this book and can not wait for Sawyer's story. There was a snippit in the back of the book for a preview of Sawyer.
** I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jackson was one of my favorite characters in the first three books. He was always there to have a good time. However in this book you discover he has his own secrets and wants pay back for what happened to his sister. He wants to go after the man involved, but the man involved is in hiding, so he goes after the next best target. His daughter Vanessa.
Vanessa is just trying to get through life. She has had a rough upbringing. Her stepfather kicked her out of the house once she turned 18 and she's still trying to protect her siblings from a distance. Vanessa has never met or even heard of her father and older brother.
Jackson makes Vanessa fall for him over the summer to try to get intel from her, not realizing she doesn't know anything going on. Jackson feels she's playing him and gets really angry and wants to make her life hell, not realizing she has already been there and back. Protective Jackson is my new favorite. I liked his funny stoner days, but I think I like protective Jackson much better. Can Vanessa forgive Jackson for how he treated her? Can she trust him again?
I really loved this book and can not wait for Sawyer's story. There was a snippit in the back of the book for a preview of Sawyer.
** I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.