| Title | : | Riot House (Crooked Sinners, #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 483 |
| Publication | : | First published April 29, 2020 |
As far as the boys who run America’s most exclusive international academy are concerned, I’m an unwelcome interloper, an inconvenience, and they’re determined to make my life a living hell.
When Wren Jacobi sets eyes on Wolf Hall Academy’s newest inductee, all he sees is an easy mark. A reserved little girl with a target painted on her back. He knows nothing of my troubled past, though. Nothing of my mother’s suspicious death, or the horrific treatment I’ve had to endure at the hands of my psychotic father.
And he has no idea of the lengths that I, unassuming little Elodie Stillwater, will go to in order to break the savage beast who dreams of breaking me first.
There’s a wolf stalking the forests that surround my new school.
Little does he know…
There are far scarier predators lurking out there in the dark.
Riot House (Crooked Sinners, #1) Reviews
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reread (jan 2020) — 3 stars ✩⋆
BUT WHY CAN'T I LIVE IN A DARK ACADEMIA SETTING FULFILLING MY DARK ACADEMIA DREAM (yes, Bridgerton and rewatching all the harry potter movies is ruining me right now because i suddenly wanna move to Bath, England but i'm broke as fuck).
why can't i just have a rich family that comes from old money adopt me so that they can ship me off to a boarding school with gothic architecture where i meet people and sneak out and go on muggle adventures-
yes, yes. i'm going on and on about dark academia because this book gives off this aesthetic and i love it (please recommend me more books like this thx)
but yeah, if y'all know any rich, hotsugar daddiesthat look like henry cavill and is possibly a lord living in a manor with butlers or something, just let me know.
anywhooo this was a good time to reread this since i'm in the mood to delve into anything with dark academia aesthetic and since i needed to refresh my mind before starting
Riot Rules and umm i forgot how angsty Dash and Carina's story might be considering that she saw him "cheating" on her... yeah, i really hope this is fake by the way *fingers crossed*
.・゜゜・ ・゜゜・．.・゜゜・ ・゜゜・．.・゜゜・ .・゜゜・
first read (may 2020) — 3 stars ✧
i LOVE boarding school, dark academia aesthetic and if there are other books like this (in the romance genre tho) pls feel free to recommend.
so this is about Elodie Stillwater (h) transferring to a new boarding school where the most "popular" boys' group is called the "Riot House". There's 3 of them:→ Wren Jacobi (H): cold and callous. rich af.
→ Dash Lovett: British, kind of an asshole, has the old money aesthetic. rich af.
→ Pax Davis: buzzed haircut, highkey a ho, models for Calvin Klein, rich af.
Wren Jacobi was obsessed with Elodie even before he met her and, cuz he's weird as hell, he was like yup ok im bored so imma destroy her blah blah blah. but did he? nope. he's the biggest softie out of all the boys and he treats Elodie like a queen.
characters
— Wren Jacobi (H)"I've always been a depraved and dirty thing, Elodie Stillwater, but the idea of you has corrupted me to the point of insanity."
i actually liked this dude cuz he was pretty sweet to Elodie but i wasn't convinced when it came to his "change". before Elodie, apparently, he's just this cold, grade A asshole, rich dude with an idgaf attitude but i never even saw it here?? it was mostly told not shown. he was like oh yeah never mind, i actually like Elodie so imma change for her but i was like bishh when? where? HOW? but yeah, Wren is actually pretty sweet and the fact that he would rather hurt himself than have her hurt because it pains him to see Elodie in any sort of pain? Y E S.
— Elodie Stillwater (h)"I'm Elodie Stillwater. I transferred in from Tel Aviv. Father's an army man. Mother's dead. I'm into painting, music, and photography. I'm allergic to pineapple. I'm an only child. I'm terrified of thunderstorms, and I love flea markets."
this was heroine was kind of a badass since she knows krav maga and what she went through when she was 14? it was H-O-R-R-I-F-I-C. if y'all wanna know (TW: SPOILER) she was sexually assaulted by her own father right next to her dead mom's body and she was locked in a box for 5 days and the military forced her to still live with the dad (!!). anyways, her inner monologue about her hating on Wren was annoying since they barely even interacted with one another in the beginning, plus, i was kinda biased cuz i liked Wren by then.
inner monologue
this was actually pretty interesting since it had a little missing girl, murder mystery and the beginning got me hooked but it just started to get boring in the middle since there was A LOT of description aka inner monologue. 25 % of the time, i didn't mind this but the other times? oh boy i did. to estimate, there was probably like 40% dialogue and 60% inner monologue. i honestly became doodle-eyed with the amount of inner monologue and long ass paragraphs this book had. it felt like i was reading my homework and when im reading a book, y'all know that's the worst feeling ever. because of this, this took me longer to finish cuz i just couldn't get into the book.
also, a lot of things were mostly told and not shown and that bugged the shit outta me.
romance
honestly, because of the inner monologue > dialogue writing, i wasn't convinced with their romance at all. it was sweet don't get me wrong, but i just wish there was more banter and a lot of showing instead of telling. i didn't really get Elodie's "hate" to Wren since he didn't even do anything that bad except for putting raw fish inside her desk and blackmailing this nerdy kid to fix her phone. THAT WAS IT. and again, i don't know when Wren changed since he was the same person this whole time. a lot of characters keep telling us that he was the worst but i was like uhh no. why? cuz it was never SHOWN.
__________________________
the side stories of the other characters are intriguing so i'll definitely read the next books. im mostly interested in Dash and Carina's story since their break up is similar to Vaughn and Tyra's from
the prince and the pawn where, you guessed it, she walks in on him getting a bj. why am i interested? well, i don't really know. im hoping that what happened is fake and Carina's a good character sooo.
but anyways, the last 30% of this got me hooked cuz of the whole weird rich people party and the whole murder mystery come to light and i read this till 3 am so you know it's good.
* * *
Crooked Sinners
#1: riot house → 3 stars
#2:
riot rules → 3.5 stars
#3: Pax's book → tbr -
3 stars
Welcome to 'Wolf Hall Academy' which is located in New Hampshire, a place which isn't a regular school housing run of the mill regular kids, it's where military bred kids and high profile workers have dumped their kids off to attend. This is where Elodie's father, Colonel Stillwater exiled her too, taking her away from the life she knew in Tel Aviv. Making this the last place she wants to be.
All I want to do is complete my assignments, get good grades to appease Colonel Stillwater, and then get the f#ck out of here the moment I've graduated.
Elodie is holding a deep dark secret that she hopes stays buried. Wren has been interest in Elodie even before he first clapped eyes on her. She's his. Slowly he claims her as his, wearing her down until they become more, under the guise of secrecy.
Wren is the stuff of sweet, heavenly dreams, and twisted, terrifying nightmares.
Meet the boys of 'Riot House' the boys who live off campus and have their very own little fortress. 'Wren' He's handsome in the same dangerous way that snakes, and spiders and wolves are beautiful to look at. 'Pax' One look at him and you mistake him for a convict from his tattoos to his shaved head. 'Dashiell' could be mistaken for a librarian with the clothes he wears to the intelligent eyes behind his wire rimmed glasses.
If you ever find find yourself stranded and alone on this road, do not go knocking on that door for help. Whatever you do, no matter the circumstances, do not step foot inside Riot House. For better or worse, you won't come out the same.'
MY THOUGHTS: One look at the cover and I was a goner! Then the synopsis sealed the deal, there I was hoping this would tick all my boxes so my anticipation levels were high when this landed on my kindle.
This was long, way longer than I feel it needed to be, the first half didn’t really capture my attention, part of me wanted to put it aside as it was very slow moving and not a lot really occurred. But I persevered. If this was cut down in size it would’ve gotten a five star rating from me, because it had the bones to make a truly spectacular read for me.
Also please correct me if I'm wrong, but I got the feeling that Wren had a dark past, it pointed towards him doing despicable things but other than that one incident nothing else was divulged!?!
Just over the halfway mark was where things picked up and this is where I connected with the story and the characters, I wanted to read, I needed to see where the author was leading me, throw in a twist and that’s what ticked my box. And I’m glad I carried on.
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Wolf Hall Academy has it’s twisted little secrets. Immerse yourself in boarding school drama with their new transfer Elodie and the rich boys Wren, Pax and Dash who run the school. The Riot House boys keep things exciting. It’s going to be a hot and dirty education!
I was consumed in their world. I tried not to devour this story, because I did not want it to end.
Wren had great depth. He was an enigma. Ruler of the school, yet prefers solitude. Well read and intelligent. He thinks he has no heart, but he feels deeply. Elodie quickly became his obsession. She was just supposed to be a target. The new girl to torment and manipulate and use until he tires of her. He never expected the girl that showed up to be the one to change him. She changed everything.
Elodie has lived under her military father’s absolute rule for years. Being sent away to boarding school is a welcome reprieve. She’s used to being beaten down, so she’s strong and resilient. Wren thinks he’ll be able to break her, but he has no idea who he’s dealing with. Elodie can stand on her own. The Riot House boys don’t scare her. She’ll make her own way.
Wren is drawn to her. She’s no longer his target, she’s become more. He no longer wants to tear her down, he wants to ruin her in a whole other way.
Elodie feels the pull between them. Even though she should stay away, she just can’t resist. The connection they share is otherworldly. It was beautifully passionate. When the two of them came together, it was soul searing. A monumental moment that would link them irrevocably.
A relationship that they keep secret because everyone has an opinion and their own agenda. So many stories among them that were left untold. Dangerous games will be played and it will put some of their lives at risk. The truth will come out and you will be shocked!
A NA bully romance that will leave you wanting more of these characters. Dash, Pax and Mercy each have their own story’s to tell (I hope 🤞🏼). I envied the love between Wren and Elodie. It was truly incredible the way they were drawn to one another and how far they fell into eachother. Great characters with pasts and multiple layers that made them interesting and left me wanting EVERYTHING. Wren and Elodie’s evolution as a couple was what made me love this story and quickly hit my Top Reads List for 2020!!! -
I just want to start by saying HOLY COW the cover for this book is so freaking hot. It fits well with the story and just screams the main character, I love it so much.
Wolf Hall is surrounded by secrets, Twisted and dark secrets and secrets always come out in the end, right? It’s just a waiting game.
Elodie is a transfer at Wolf Hall. She’s been living under her military fathers strict rules and getting away from that is a relief even if where she’s going isn’t exactly great either. She’s strong and smart and doesn’t take anyone’s shit.
Wren. Wren is a dark, handsome devil in disguise. He’s always silent, all he needs to do is look at people for them to run in the opposite direction. Deep down inside there’s a whole other side, a side that doesn’t get much daylight. He’s caring and smart but he’s set in his ways and the last thing he even expects to happen is the new girl making him feel things.
Watching these two is amusing, they’re drawn to each other from the start and boy, is it fun.
I truly hope Dash and and Pax get their own stories too because these two are intriguing and honestly, I can’t wait to hear what’s in their twisted heads.
Reading Callie Hart’s books is always, without a doubt entertaining. It’s always a joy and I can’t wait for my next fix.
Riot House dark and twisted and full of secrets. The perfect mixture for an amazing book. -
I love Callie Hart’s unique brand of dark romance...its unmistakable. And she has outdone herself with this dark and twisty tale! I'm always left in awe at her wonderful mind and the stories she comes up with. She never fails to amaze me with not only her writing and creativity but also just how terrific she is with enthralling me from the onset.
Riot House left me so captivated from the beginning that I never wanted the story to end. A storyline so unique and intriguing and certainly keeps you on your toes. Wren and Elodie’s story is intense and complicated. Wren isn't your typical bad boy bully and honestly the character evolution of him floored me in the best possible way, and he made me swoon. Elodie likewise is an amazing girl. Her past is full of darkness, pain and suffering. However, her ordeals are what makes her fearless and a fighter and a survivor. I found Wren and Elodie’s relationship seriously fascinating to read, both suffering with inner turmoil, yet both strong willed. And that is what I loved most about this story. Callie Hart manages to capture it all; the passion, the suspense, the love and hate, and even the obsessions.
This story was dark, suspenseful, sexy as hell, raw, sinister, and dare I say a whole lotta sweet (which I really appreciated and found so refreshing). And it honestly had me guessing right until the end. When I thought the story was going one way, something would happen unexpectedly. The twists and turns were jaw dropping. I'm incredibly excited to get to know the side characters all of which have very intriguing stories of their own to tell. Riot House gave me all the feels of an epic Callie Hart read and is one not to be missed. -
“You are going to be mine, Elodie Stillwater. Of all my sins and misdeeds, making you fall in love with me will be the very worst of them all.” sir-
WHO THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?//?///?//?/?
you are sixteen. sit your ass down and go do your algebra ffs. -
First things first - the cover is sooooooo hot!🔥
That pulled me to it and then the Blurb. Callie's books teeter on the thin Gray line generally. A risqué author who pushes readers to go a step further into the darkness very skillfully. This book centers around the dreaded Wolf Hall Academy!.
"This place isn’t a regular school for regular kids. It’s a jail cell dressed up as a place of learning, where army officers who can’t be bothered dealing with their own kids dump them without a second thought, knowing that they’ll be watched over with a military-like focus. Wolf Hall."
Imposing, cryptic and treacherous, the Academy and the building itself hides dark secrets and monsters in its shadowed halls and dark a coves. It's where Wren Jacobi rules with his posse of Pax and Dashiell
“Riot House boy?”
“Those three idiots have a house halfway down the mountain. They call it Riot House."
Here students are left by their military parents, forgotten and existing blindly. And in stumbles Elodie Stillwater, virtually banished by her father- Colonel Stillwater
The story centers around these young people trying to ward off danger from all sides. It's maze like plot springs new surprises every now and then. Villains and heroes are often mislabelled. Scathing dialogues showcase the cruelty of the the Wolf - Pack and why they got shaped this way.
The pace is a it slow in the first half but picks up speed around 60%.
Wren entices and lures Elodie in his web and it's a game of cat & mouse from then on.
"The old adage is true: it’s impossible to look away from a car crash. And I already know that Wren Jacobi isn’t just a metaphorical car crash. He’s a fifteen-car pile-up, and there are already people dead at the scene. I’m headed straight for him, though, and I can’t steer myself away. Worst of all, I’m not wearing a seatbelt, and motherfucker’s cut my brake lines."
Their relationship precarious and perilous...but it also catches the attention of a predator hidden in plain sight, ready to pounce on them.
The Explosive secret had me gasping in horror and disbelief. Callie is going there folks!!!
Fasten your seatbelt cause the ride is bumpy and scary, diving headlong into a dark cavern.
4 stars for Black Feathers
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Been looking forward to this story since we saw a glimpse of it in the Bully Me anthology.
Was pleasantly surprised to find a different beginning. This one is more Callie like, graphic, detailed, and short but definitely not sweet. Knock out book that's for sure.
Although the first half is basically the same to what was in the antho, do not miss the mini little chapters sprinkled throughout. Trust me.
To recap on the first half that most would of already read and loved... The author is introducing us to her first new world/ new characters in a long time, and already I'm intrigued and enjoying the change.
As the story progresses you'll be invested without realizing it, Callie's unique and descriptive writing slipping around you like a familiar blanket. Plus there is little mini chapters that lead you along like breadcrumbs in the dark. This book is the fantastic work of author we all love, hinting at the bigger picture until it slams into us like a brick wall.
The tenuous relationship that grows between W and E is fascinating to watch. Can they drop all the assumptions made about each other and let each other in? Will it flourish or crash and burn?
In true Callie fashion the climax/main bombshell will leave stunned. Did not see that coming at all!!!
But wait there's more... like usual. My god I really can't say too much more without spoiling the epic, mind blowing journey you'll go on. These characters and plot will stick with you for a long time to come, so do yourselves a favour and one click immediately. -
❊ 3 stars ❊
Riot House is a very very tame bully romance, I don't even know if I would go that far and call it bully romance cause Wren is a teddy bear.
The thing is, when you tell me all the damn time how cold, cruel and callous the hero is, I want proof of that. All everyone is talking about is how Elodie should stay away from Wren, cause he is this bad wolf and prince of Wolfe Hall Academy, but I don't buy it. The worse what he does is to put frog's legs in her desk during class. That's some kindergarden shit right there. How old are you 8?
Don't misunderstand me, I liked Wren, but what I don't like is the "tell but no show" device that was used in this book. "He's the bad guy. The monster that crawls out of the shoadows to hurt and maim those around him." Where is this guy? W-H-E-R-E. Even when Wren did something to Elodie's father, it was told to the reader in a few sentence but we never see the actual scene. Maybe it's just Callie Hart's writing style? I really don't know, because it's the first book I've read by this author.
Another thing I wasn't a fan of was the "inner monologues and no talk". Sometimes I go for a few pages without anyone talking. It's just Elodie describing her surrounding and the academy. Therefore the book felt really long and drawn out. Did something revelant happened in the first 40-50% because it feels like nothing really happened.
Elodie was a good heroine. She was strong and had a spine. She was not afraid of Wren (maybe because there was nothing to be afraid of cuz he doesn't do anything than brood and stare at her 😂). Elodie and Wren had some very cute moments together, but I was more invested in the side characters Carina and Dashiell. Hopefully these two get their second-chance novel!
Who I couldn't stand was the third Riot House boy Pax. That guy seem actually scary and like an asshole. I didn't like he treated Elodie like garbage and called her a whore many times. That guy seems just very unlikable and I'm not looking forward to read his book.
Wouldn't call this book a masterpiece, but it was fairly entertaining. -
Holy Hell Y’all! I loved every single freaking second of this book. Wren and Elodie’s story was Ah-May-Zing! I’m still trying to wrap all my thoughts around all the feelings this book threw my way, but I am all in on this new world and all about these Riot House boys, Callie Hart, has created. I want, I need, NO , I absolutely can’t wait to have more from this world. Wren Jacobi the dark, devious Raven loving painter and Elodie, his ass kickin heroine with a tragic past have stolen my heart, broken my heart, and then mended my heart right along with their own. THIS is the kind of bully romance that does it for me, and Callie Hart, did it oh so good!
This phenomenal book was an explosion of everything awesome out of every genre I love. So much more than I thought I was going to get when I started this “bully romance.” I plowed through this book in record time, I practically ignored all else in my life. It’s that good, my friends. I can’t wait for more in this series.
Cr8zysockbookblock blog wrap up for this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐️- This book O-M-G. Action, secrets , suspense, angst, hella hot and sexy times, so much heart, banter, blood, creepy stalking, sweat, tears, fight scenes, forgiveness, revenge, and frustration, lies on top of lies! Y’all the change in the H. Talk about brought to his knees by our sassy heroine. Twists and turns around every corner, I cannot stress enough HOW FREAKIN GOOD this book is! These characters are PHENOMENAL!💀💀 The ones you instantly loved and the ones we instantly hated, that I just know we are gonna love done the road. GAH! I need more, like yesterday. 🙏🏻
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥-HOT,HOT,HOT!! Ladies THIS is what I call a panty chucker! This book is so hot you don’t need the unders.
🌪Cliffhanger Warning-🌪🌪No Cliffhanger!I can’t wait for more from the Crooked Sinners! 😍
🔫 Trigger Warning-This book is a Dark romance feel and does have violent scenes that could be considered triggers for some. If you have concerns you can PM for more information.
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"From the crown of his head to the low-slung waistband of his jeans, Wren is the stuff of sweet, heavenly dreams, and twisted, terrifying nightmares."
I'm still shook!!!! I finished this book a few days ago and I still may not be able to find the words other than this shot to the top of one of my most favorite reads of the year so far!! Wren was like he was written for me...every imperfection, flaw, demon, sly smirk he gave ground him so deep in my soul, I fell in love with him myself. His intelligence, quiet dominance, and his intensity just completely blew me away and honestly had me squirming in my seat when he set his sights on Elodie. Once the chase was on, it dropped my stomach and filled it with butterflies the entire time. The underlying mystery surrounding them just gave a deeper dimension to the story, along with the fantastic line of supporting characters that just made it so incredibly engrossing. It was a movie in my head from start to finish, and I never wanted it to end!!
"How easily this could all end in disaster. How quickly I could lose myself, and how effortlessly I could break her. I feel it in her, as she must feel it in me. "
Their fall, the spiraling events, how it all progressed was nothing short of magically genius, and I honestly wish I could read it again for the first time. No matter how much Wren and Elodie fought the attraction, it was just too strong to deny. Some of the hottest, scorching, sexy, seductive, and flaming hot scenes I had the pleasure of reading lay in this book, and everyone, everywhere needs to read it!! I thank the Author for providing a copy to review and I am unbelievably hyped for the rest of the Riot Boys!!
"I've always been a depraved and dirty thing Elodie Stillwater, but the idea of you has corrupted me to the point of insanity."
~~~Erika, Book Haven Book Blog -
this book is so unserious like sit your ass down you are 17 years old😭
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4.5 stars!
Damn, Callie Hart! What an intense ride. A (very) mature YA bully romance that is dramatic, emotional, sexy and romantic with a lot of heart. It totally captivated me, and I was completely drawn in by these incredibly complex characters and their wonderfully written story.
Elodie Stillwater is the 17-year-old daughter of an Army General stationed in Israel, and she has suddenly, and without warning, been shipped off from her home with her father to an exclusive private boarding school in the US. It’s definitely a shock, and while Elodie is sad to leave behind her friends and the life that she knows, she is thrilled to be away from her violent and controlling father, and she’s ready to face whatever Wolf Hall Academy brings her way.Wren is the stuff of sweet, heavenly dreams, and twisted, terrifying nightmares.
Wren Jacobi and his two friends own Wolf Hall Academy. They are ‘those’ boys – the gorgeous, rich assholes that everybody wants to be in with. They live just off campus in a home dubbed ‘Riot House’ where they think up malicious plots to entertain themselves at the expense of others. And Wren has set his sights firmly on newcomer, Elodie.Why am I so dead set on her?
Because she’s innocent, and I’m not.
Because she’s wholesome, and I’m not.
Because she’s untainted, and I’m not.
And most importantly of all, because she’ll be so pretty when I make her cry.
Elodie has a harsh introduction to her new world, but she’s been through a lot in her short life, and she is stronger than anybody gives her credit for. She’s brave, sarcastic, and a bit of a badass, and the more I got to know her, the more I absolutely loved her! And to Wren’s utter surprise, he becomes intrigued by his new target.“I’m cursed with this bewildering fascination over you, and it’s really becoming… inconvenient, Stillwater.”
It’s a wonderful dynamic between the two of them. The attraction is there from the beginning, but of course the fact that they are attracted to each other just pisses them both off, which is highly entertaining. But as Wren pushes, and Elodie pushes back, things begin to change. There is this incredible honesty between the two of them, and they don’t hold back when it comes to telling it like it is, which I love!“Tell me I’m wrong. You don’t imagine me. You’re not plagued by me day and night, the way I’m plagued by you. See, I have no problem with the truth. I made friends with it a long time ago. A lie only makes a fool of the liar. The truth always comes out. I am besieged by you, and it fucking sucks. You’re in my head when I wake up. You’re in my head when I wander around this wretched place, and you’re still there, tormenting the ever-loving shit out of my when I close my eyes at night.”
…
“Fine. You’re right. I’m rotten and eaten up on the inside because of you. Is that what you want to hear? I let something spoiled and bad into my head, and now I can’t rid myself of it, and it’s festering away, driving me madder and madder by the day. Congratu-fucking-lations. I’m going against every ounce of common sense I own every damn day, and I’m making decisions I know are fucking stupid, and I can’t do anything about it! How fucked up is that!”
They are so confused by all that they are feeling, and they just let that out there, not hiding anything from each other, but both of them prepared to explore what’s between them despite what everybody else in the school thinks, and all indications that they should keep their distance, and I loved watching the slow shift“You are going to be mine, Elodie Stillwater. Of all my sins and misdeeds, making you fall in love with me will be the very worst of them.”
Bully romances aren’t my favourite – there’s only so much bad behaviour I can deal with before I hate both characters for being either an asshole or a doormat. But this is the kind of bully romance I can handle. The hero is initially an ass, yes, but he changes for the better. It’s not sudden, it’s not cheesy, it’s realistic and it’s a huge part of his development throughout the story, and once Wren realises that he has fallen for Elodie, there is no going back for him.Behind every action, every thought, and every word lies the nagging question: what would Elodie think of me if she could see me now?
It’s a burden, this shift in attitude. It doesn’t come naturally; it requires constant work, and the new restrictions I’ve placed upon myself chafe like nothing else.
She didn’t ask me to change.
She hasn’t really asked anything of me, but this gnawing desire to make her happy, to make her proud of me, is ever constant. For her, I want to be better than my soiled, rotten soul has ever been before.
It’s intense and all consuming, and holy hell, it’s sexy. Are 17-year-olds really having sex like this? Just damn. But underneath it all is a strong emotion that is beautifully expressed as Elodie and Wren figure out their feelings… in their own unique way.“In case you haven’t realized it yet, you are endgame for me, Elodie Stillwater. And everyone else in the entire world can go and eat a dick.”
The love story develops alongside a whole heap of drama happening at the school and in their personal lives. Both Elodie and Wren’s family situations are a mess, Wren’s friends in Riot House have their own issues going on, and there’s a secret about a past student that nobody seems to want to talk about. It builds to an exciting and suspenseful finish that had me madly flipping pages, and though I guessed some of what was going on, it was still a great ride.
I loved this book. The characters are complex and lovable, with great growth, and their dynamic is just fantastic! The dark and gritty is balanced really well with lighter moments, and Hart’s writing is spot-on, wrapping you up and sucking you right into the story. It's a strong beginning for the Crooked Sinners series, with other characters just begging to have their stories told and I’m really excited to return to this world with more books in the future.
I loved it – 4.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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I thought this was a bully romance but Wren was like a teddy bear😂
Still debating if i should read the second book, i was not that invested and Dash and Carina were annoying. -
4.5/5 ✰ - riot house review
💌 buddy read with crystal 🫶
+ check tw’s !
this book was sooo good! not only is it set in an academy but there’s mystery AND the boy obsessed trope ?? i need me a wren right NOWWWW. this man & his words 🫠 had me MELTINGGG. i love him.
while the start was a bit slow, the writing had me HOOKED. it was absolutely beautiful. not only that, but the characters were SO intriguing. it can be difficult to write so many different, interesting & unique characters but callie hart NAILED IT!
elodie. my girl. i love her so much, she deserves the world & i’m so happy she ends up with a man who quite literally worships the ground she walks on. reading about her & her past absolutely broke my heart, but the way she grows & becomes stronger was so amazing to read!
overall i loved pretty much everything about this book & i cannot wait to dive into the next book! (am literally starting the next one in the morning)
* the only thing i didn’t like about this book was the fmc’s background & it being “israel”. it’s palestine, not israel. #freepalestine -
What is there to say about this book that hasn't already been written? I always go in with an open mind and this book is no different. In the beginning, I have to add, I was skeptical and afraid I was going to DNF. However, all skepticism has flown out the window. I really enjoyed this book.
I was worried, I wasn’t going to like Wren. Furthermore, I was right; I don’t like him. I LOVE HIM! His character development alone is five stars. And Elodie is a badass. She is far from a doormat, and these two are each other equals.
I have a newfound love for Dark Academia and Wolf Hill Academy. The academy is full of dark, twisted secrets. And if walls could talk, I am sure they would be screaming to run, I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in the series. -
Nothing much interesting. Very basic in terms of an actual dark romance.
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Raw and emotional, Riot House consumed me from start to finish.
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“You are going to be mine, Elodie Stillwater. Of all my sins and misdeeds, making you fall in love with me will be the very worst of them all.”
ANOTHER AMAZING READ BY CALLIE HART!
Addiciting story that will keep you on your toes until the very end.
I read this book in one sitting. It was everything; dark, angsty, suspenseful and so freaking excellent- like every single one of Callie's books.
Both Elodie and Wren, as the side characters were very unique and well written and fully developed for this particualr plot.
I just loved this book so much!
I hope we'll get Dash and Carina's story soon.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for honest review -
3/5 Stars 🌟
I don't even know where to begin with this review. I'm not sure if my mood and mind just wasn't in it or if it was the book itself. I didn't hate this book but I also didn't love it. The chapters of the book felt drawn out to me and the length of the book felt much longer than it was. I felt like a lot was happening while at the same time nothing at all was happening by the end of the book I had forgotten most of what had happened as most of it felt mundane and irrelevant to the story apart from the major plot revelations/twists and even then I found them to be predictable and lack luster.
We got little burst of darkness/mystery woven into the plot here and there but there were so very few of those moments and they were spread too far apart to keep me invested in the long run and by the time they were revealed I had already figured out what they were which is probably why I found them underwhelming . This book became predictable real fast. I did predict who the main 'evil' character was going to be quite early on and why they did what they did (I mean after Wren said a specific line early on I instantly knew how the story would end) and I was right though I did enjoy how the conclusion to that played out which is why the 3 stars.
Wren was supposed to be this cold, complex and mysterious guy but I actually found him not that bad. Like was he meant to be a bully because he didn't really read like one. Yes he had moments where he acted horribly and said hurtful things to others and wanted nothing more than to toy with the heroine but he soon changed and was a lot more caring and protective of her which isn't necessarily a bad thing just not at all what I was expecting from this type of story. I definitely needed more of his back story especially with his family dymanic as I never truly understood why he was the way he was. It was hinted at throughout the story but never fully delved into. Yes some of his issues were explored but no where near enough to make me truly feel his anguish and tortured soul act.
Elodie's inner monologues were funny and sassy but also way too long that I found myself constantly zoning out and somewhat bored. I did like her personality and felt bad for everything she had gone through for someone so young but I failed to connect to both her and Wren for the majority of the story which is something that is necessary for me to be able to really enjoy a book so again this could be a 'it's me not you' thing as I feel alot of others truly enjoyed this book. Both Elodie and Wren had great physical connection but I couldn't feel anything on the emotional side of it. There was also one part of the story that bothered me
I did however enjoy the way it ended with all the suspense and drama unfolding as well as majority of the story being wrapped up there where a few things I felt weren't explained properly or ignored but maybe they will get explored in the next book especially with the next couple as I feel one of the points was more of their side character storyline.
If the book had been shorter and focused more on the darker elements and the flow had been better I'm sure I would've loved this story. I would still recommend it to anyone who enjoys dark romances with some added suspense and mystery as I'm sure most would enjoy this more than me
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FIVE RIOT STARS for Elodie and Wren 💛🖤💛🖤!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is the first book I've read by Callie Hart and I loved it.
"Riot House" is a new adult bully romance with enemies to lovers trope whose interesting and tense plot will nail you to the book to the very end.
Elodie is a female character whose life wasn't easy because she lived with a military father who ran her life which made her strong and nothing could surprise her anymore.
Her life changes after her father send her to a boarding school.
Wren is a male character who thinks he has no heart, but that’s certainly not true because his feelings prove just the opposite.
At first, his behavior towards Elodie is awful because she is just a target for him to torture until he becomes tired of her, but later that changes and she becomes an important part of his life as much as he is hers.
Elodie and Wren’s relationship is a pure fire filled with chemistry that grows more and more with each page of the book.
If you're looking for a NA bully romance book and you also love Callie's writing style, then you should read this book!!!
Highly recommended!!!
P.S. I can't wait to read "Riot Rules" 😍❤🔥!!! -
I loved loved loved this story so much and I could not get enough of it. This would have to be my favourite book by Callie Hart so far and I have loved all of her books that she has written already. This story was full of so much emotion that I could not put the story down but at the same time I wanted to save this book because I didn't want to finish it. The story was full of angst, drama, romance, secrets and suspense creating the perfect read.
Elodie was a strong female character that was completely fearless during moments in the book. The way that the character did whatever she had to in order to save her friends just showed how strong she was in the story despite the pain she has experienced.
Wren I really loved despite the fact that at times he could come across as cruel and heartless. But there was much more not him then the perception he gave to others. He was like no other I have read about and I was instantly intrigued by him.
This story had so many twists in the story that I could not get enough off. Both of these characters were amazing for each other and had so much chemistry between them. This is one of my top reads for the year so far. -
"Her defiance, and her strength, and her self-assuredness are addicting. She knows exactly who she is and what she stands for, and I want to breathe her like she's life its very self."
trigger warning: rape, incest, violence
Callie Hart is definitely the queen of writing romance books set in high school. Maybe it’s because her characters are more mature than most teenagers or maybe it’s just because her storytelling skills are superb. Either way, I am once again in love with another series of hers.
One of the things I liked the most about “Riot House” is the air of dark academia surrounding the story. Since the book is set in a private school in the middle of nowhere and Callie developed the mystery and suspense so well, I was always at the edge of my seat wondering what was gonna happen next. Even when things were apparently okay, you knew that after just a few pages everything could change. That definitely made the story more appealing and exciting for me.
Elodie was the perfect main character for this book. Like Sloane from the Blood & Roses series and Silver from the Raleigh Rebels series, Elodie Stillwater is sassy, smart, fierce and very strong. In this case, she’s not only strong because she survived a lot of traumas, but also because she can actually fight and defend herself. Even though she has this tough exterior, Elodie is still a vulnerable and compassionate character and I loved seeing the way her mind worked. She knew her limits, but she wasn’t afraid to step out of her comfort zone to stand up for what she believed in.
I was afraid Wren Jacobi would be the typical bad boy who’s mean to everyone just for the hell of it. Don’t get me wrong, he’s still an asshole to most people, but he also showed a fragile side that I love to see in male characters. At first, he just wanted to mess with Elodie because she seemed too innocent and good to be true. However, after a few meetings, he started to realize how wonderful she was and how much power she held over him. In addition, when he cared about someone, you could see how real it was. He was honest to a fault and that’s an admirable personality trait.
Considering they were both very stubborn, Elodie and Wren’s discussions always led to amazing dialogues and scenes full of sexual tension. Their instant connection was very believable and the way they slowly fell in love with each other was incredible. Wren had to really fight for Elodie’s attention and that’s always a plus for me. There’s nothing quite like a boy who believes he’s incapable of love falling head over heels for the girl <3
Regarding the side characters, I have to say I want a book for Dashiell and Carina. They have an interesting past and great chemistry, so I think that would make an amazing story. I didn’t like Pax all that much, but I think he has room for improvement, so if he ends up having a book for himself, I’ll definitely read it too.
I’m taking one star out of my rating because I found the beginning kinda slow and because the pacing throughout the whole book was a little off. When the rhythm was finally getting good, something random would happen that killed the mood. Another thing that bothered me was the character’s lack of self-preservation. I’ll never understand how 17 year old characters have no regards for their own safety lol Other than that, I highly recommend this book if you enjoy darker high school romances.
*ARC provided by the author and Candi Kane PR in exchange for an honest review* -
Riot House by Callie Hart is the first book in a brand new Bully Romance Series told in Dual POVS.
This is Wren and Elodie's Love Story.
They might be richer than gods, but they’re morally bankrupt.
As far as the boys who run America’s most exclusive international academy are concerned, I’m an unwelcome interloper, an inconvenience, and they’re determined to make my life a living hell.
When Wren Jacobi sets eyes on Wolf Hall Academy’s newest inductee, all he sees is an easy mark. A reserved little girl with a target painted on her back. He knows nothing of my troubled past, though. Nothing of my mother’s suspicious death, or the horrific treatment I’ve had to endure at the hands of my psychotic father.
And he has no idea of the lengths that I, unassuming little Elodie Stillwater, will go to in order to break the savage beast who dreams of breaking me first.
There’s a wolf stalking the forests that surround my new school.
Little does he know…
There are far scarier predators lurking out there in the dark.
The first half of this book was firstly released in the Bully Me Anthology, although I waited until this full length had come out to read Riot House. I have to be complete honest in my review of this book and say that the first half of this book, I just couldn't get into. It was very slow and I for one couldn't connect with the characters as I couldn't see where this book was going to go.
Although once I hit that half way mark, I absolutely started falling for these characters and could not put it down, this is when I truly believe this story hit every mark. I was absolutely intrigued with the story that was just starting to unfold. Elodie Stillwater is the new girl in Wolf Hall Academy after her father ships her off to the states. From the moment that Wren first heard about Elodie, he was obsessed about her and wanted to know all there is about her.
The relationship that grows between Wren and Elodie was fascinating to watch develop. Can they drop all their assumptions that they have about one another and let each other in? So many stories among them that were left untold, Dangerous games will be played and it will put some lives at risk. Once the truth is revealed, you will be shocked with the outcome.
Let me tell you, I definitely was. I may have gasped at some parts. I definitely loved watching the evolvement of these characters, the love that had blossomed between them, learning about their pasts that had shaped them into the people that they are today.
This is a bully romance that once you get into it, it will leave you wanting more of these characters. Especially the secondary characters Dash, Pax and Mercy. Get ready to be taken on one heck of a ride with these two.
*I voluntarily read this book in exchange for an honest review! -
the things i want wren jacobi to do to me😩😩like fr that mf is something. the last few chapters were so addicting. im literally so invested on carina and dash's story, like second chance?!? yeah for sure going to b good. the only thing i didnt like about this book was the isr*el concept, its pali baby. #freepalestine
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3.5 Stars ⭐️
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***4 "rioting" stars***
AVAILABLE NOW!
"If you ever find yourself stranded and alone on this road, do not go knocking on that door for help, Elodie. Whatever you do, no matter the circumstances, do not step foot inside Riot House. For better or worse, you won't come out the same."
This was a very good story, even though in the beginning it was confusing as hell!!!!
The scenery wasn't the usual and i believe that i liked the small differences than our usual school-bully romances!!!
Wren and the the other Riot House boys were delightful to read and i'm wishing that there will be more stories set on Wolf Hall!!!
I won't lie to you!!! The first half of the book was very slow for my taste, but the other half was so wonderful!!! I just didn't want to stop reading!!!!
"This place isn’t a regular school for regular kids. It’s a jail cell dressed up as a place of learning, where army officers who can’t be bothered dealing with their own kids dump them without a second thought, knowing that they’ll be watched over with a military-like focus. Wolf Hall."
Elodie had a hard life living with her bastard of a military father!!!!
Now, thankfully she is shipped far away from him, on Wolf Hall and there her life is beggining to change, even though her father's shadow is always looming upon her...
From the first moment, she is drawn to Wren Jacobi, a boy so different from the others...
A boy that he is determined to make her life a living hell and who has a dark past...
"Smart girls don't tangle with the devil.
Girls who have a good head on their shoulders stear clear of this kind of trouble."
"He's brutal, and he's mean, and he's rotten down to his very core. I can't escape him, though. There's a very real danger that he'll hold his cup to my lips, and I'll drink down his poison like I'm dying and he's the cure."
Wren and his boys were some sort of powerful kings on Wolf Hall.... Dark kings!!!
They were living outside the campus, in Riot House, and they were above everyone else in their own fucked yp way...
These boys had many issues, but Wren had a weird reaction toward Elodie, before even he had to lay his eyes on her...
I won't lie to you... I liked Wren very much, even though the half time, i couldn't understand him...
"Wren is the stuff of sweet, heavenly dreams, and twisted, terrifying nightmares.
“Why am I so dead set on her?
Because she’s innocent, and I’m not.
Because she’s wholesome, and I’m not.
Because she’s untainted, and I’m not.
And most importantly of all, because she’ll be so pretty when I make her cry.”
As you can understand, Wren and Elodie had started developing feelings toward each other...
But there are too many things that are standing between them...
Too many dark secrets from both parts...
Can they manage to overcome everything and be together, even with all the scars that are both carrying inside of them???
“I’m cursed with this bewildering fascination over you, and it’s really becoming… inconvenient, Stillwater.”
"The old adage is true: it’s impossible to look away from a car crash. And I already know that Wren Jacobi isn’t just a metaphorical car crash. He’s a fifteen-car pile-up, and there are already people dead at the scene. I’m headed straight for him, though, and I can’t steer myself away. Worst of all, I’m not wearing a seatbelt, and motherfucker’s cut my brake lines."
I enjoyed this story very much, even though i could be more satisfied with less pages...
The book was very long and as i told you above the first half was really slow in every aspect, but the second half repaid me for the waiting...
The second part was intense and it had much action... Secrets that were revealed!!!
But to be totally honest with you, i thought that Wren's dark past would be more dark and i was disappointed a little bit...
"My heart's a grenade. It's safer where it is, locked in its cage. You take it outta there and you're essentially pulling the pin."
"What happens then?"
"I don't know. No one's ever tried."
Overall, this story was good...
Elodie, even small on appearance, she was feisty and i liked that characteristic of hers...
Wren was misunderstood, i believe!!! He seemed to be dark, fucked up and wild, but he was also very intelligent with a gentleness that he was hiding very well...
I really loved the guy!!!
These two were fitting really good together.... They could understand each other and they could be the balm for the other's soul.
"I'm his prisoner, and Wren Jacobi is not a benevolent jailer. He'll keep me under his lock and key until he's bored of me, and I get the impression that his obsessions are for life."
"She's everything good and light in this world and being in her presence is like emerging from a prison cell after so many long, dark years and finally feeling the sun on my face."
Also.... Dashier and Pax, the other Riot House Boys, were soooo strange!!!! But i believe they are harmless as well!!! I would love to read their stories too!!!
And Mercy's of course!!!! This girl was..... Fucked up, but intriguing as hell!!!
"The best way not to fear a monster was to become one."
***I received an Arc for the exchange of an honest review.*** -
I have been a huge Callie Hart fan since Zeth and can not devour her stories fast enough! Riot House was absolutely delicious! Wren and Elodie were sexy, addicting and their banter was just amazing. I loved their connection and could not get enough!
I enjoyed the mysterious element to the story and how the author did not pull her punches. This story had darker elements but was also quite romantic. Wren was absolutely perfect. The quintessential mean boy with allll the hidden facets. I loved how Elodie was the perfect match to him and was nothing like he expected. She was strong, sassy and assertive. I absolutely loved them so much.
Overall, I loved this story and hope there are more books in this series! 4.5 stars! ~Ratula -
Disclaimer: there is MM element. And that’s a massive turnoff!!! but because details were obscure at the start I continued on to see how the MCs worked out. The one good point was the writing style drew me in but by 50% I was checking the length, got so bored, where was the story? There wasn’t enough plot points, and I found the setting so bloody bleak and unsettling. The characters gave me whiplash, I didn’t feel a strong enough connection.
And the smut felt so fake lol
Also the guy friends are so gross and I really don’t get why they’re all friends. Ughh I feel so cheated! I could have reread the Tormented Mine series instead. -
dnf 9%
Even if the author weren’t a zionist (which I’m assuming she is considering the fmc here, Elodie, transferred from Tel Aviv, “Israel”) the way she didn’t even spend two minutes trying to find a reason for this dude to hate the new shiny girl pissed me the fuck off.
Instead we get this: I love nothing more than mastering myself, both mind and body, and my first thought when I saw that girl’s smiling face, was that I wanted to make myself hate her.
Why, you ask?
Why the hell not?
Just for the fun of it.
For a way to pass the time.
I’m out goodbye.
