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Empire High #1
Empire High Untouchables
The Untouchables. That’s what everyone calls the Hunter and Caldwell brothers. At least, it’s my best friend’s nickname for them. And since she’s the only one that talks to me at my new school, I’ll take her word for it.
The nickname probably comes from the fact that they’re exorbitantly wealthy. Old wealth. The kind that isn’t flaunted around. But you can tell by the way they carry themselves. Or maybe the name just refers to the fact that they’re so beautiful it’s almost hard to look at them.
No matter the reason for their nickname, it’s an ironic one. Because I’ve only been going to this school for a week and I already want to touch.
The nickname probably comes from the fact that they’re exorbitantly wealthy. Old wealth. The kind that isn’t flaunted around. But you can tell by the way they carry themselves. Or maybe the name just refers to the fact that they’re so beautiful it’s almost hard to look at them.
No matter the reason for their nickname, it’s an ironic one. Because I’ve only been going to this school for a week and I already want to touch.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 9, 2020
About the author
Ivy Smoak
75 books7,560 followersIvy Smoak is the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon #1 bestselling author of The Hunted Series. Her books have sold over 4 million copies worldwide.
When she's not writing, you can find Ivy binge watching too many TV shows, taking long walks, playing outside, and generally refusing to act like an adult. She lives with her husband in Delaware.
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Join Ivy Smoak's newsletter for a sexy FREE story and exclusive material: https://www.ivysmoak.com/newsletter
Empire High
The Hunted & Light to My Darkness
Made of Steel
When she's not writing, you can find Ivy binge watching too many TV shows, taking long walks, playing outside, and generally refusing to act like an adult. She lives with her husband in Delaware.
Learn more about Ivy on:
Amazon ➜ http://bit.ly/IvySmoakAMZ
Facebook ➜ http://bit.ly/IvySmoakFacebook
Instagram ➜ http://bit.ly/IvySmoakInsta
TikTok ➜ https://bit.ly/3F6QML7
BookBub ➜ https://bit.ly/2VOZycg
Website ➜ bit.ly/IvySmoakWebsite
Reader Group ➜ bit.ly/IvySmoakGroup
Join Ivy Smoak's newsletter for a sexy FREE story and exclusive material: https://www.ivysmoak.com/newsletter
Empire High
The Hunted & Light to My Darkness
Made of Steel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,231 reviews
September 17, 2020
What a phenomenal ending!
This was definitely not your traditional bully romance book. When I first saw the blurb I thought this would be similar to a lot of bully romance books that are trending recently. It has the poor girl who is a nobody at a school full of wealthy entitled teens. A group of 4 guys are the wealthiest, best looking and most popular. In this case they are called the Untouchables.
However, this book turned out to be more of a character study where it showed insight into and motivations of the main characters and many of the supporting cast as well. It was a window into the life of a teenage girl during an extreme time of her life and what at first seemed a bit tame and slow moving was a completely fascinating build up to a near perfect ending (with cliffhanger).
The main character, Brooklyn Sanders is a teenage girl who recently lost her mother after a long battle with cancer. Her father left as soon as he found out Brooklyn’s mother was pregnant so he has never been in her life and she doesn’t even know his name. It has always been just her and her Mom. Brooklyn’s mother was her best friend, closest confidant and was solely responsible for her. Though Brooklyn didn’t have an easy life with her Mom, she had to work and go to school and she was caretaker through her mother’s illness.
Brooklyn not only lost her mom, but her home and everything she knew. Her only living relative is her uncle Jim lives in New York and took her in after her mother died. She barely knew her uncle and feels like a burden to him so she works to help with the rent. Jim is a janitor at Empire High which is one of the best schools in the country. So Brooklyn is able to attend school, but everyone considers her a scholarship student which are lowest of the low to the elite at the school.
Brooklyn has one friend, Kennedy who lives in the apartment down the hall from her. Their apartments are tiny compared to the lavish park avenue apartments of some of the other students. Brooklyn is drowning in sorrow and barely holding on but one thing that helps her is her crush on Matt Caldwell. Matt and Mason Caldwell and Robert and James Hunter make up the Untouchables. When Matt starts talking to Brooklyn she is amazed and elated.
However, something happens and Matt starts ignoring her. Brooklyn struggles to figure it out and she befriends another guy Felix who is in her Gym class. Both guys seem to like her but there are forces beyond her control that drive the action. I don’t want to give away any of the plot but to say that this is a Clean Romance. Though Brooklyn dates Felix and Matt and shares intimate kisses, that is about as far as it goes.
Though the lack of steam didn’t bother me because the story was so good. I was invested in these lives and I wanted things to come together and work out for everybody. Except the bully Isabella and her friends. I thought the ending was fantastic and I can’t wait for the next book. I seem to say that a lot but I really want to find out what happens next.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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This was definitely not your traditional bully romance book. When I first saw the blurb I thought this would be similar to a lot of bully romance books that are trending recently. It has the poor girl who is a nobody at a school full of wealthy entitled teens. A group of 4 guys are the wealthiest, best looking and most popular. In this case they are called the Untouchables.
However, this book turned out to be more of a character study where it showed insight into and motivations of the main characters and many of the supporting cast as well. It was a window into the life of a teenage girl during an extreme time of her life and what at first seemed a bit tame and slow moving was a completely fascinating build up to a near perfect ending (with cliffhanger).
The main character, Brooklyn Sanders is a teenage girl who recently lost her mother after a long battle with cancer. Her father left as soon as he found out Brooklyn’s mother was pregnant so he has never been in her life and she doesn’t even know his name. It has always been just her and her Mom. Brooklyn’s mother was her best friend, closest confidant and was solely responsible for her. Though Brooklyn didn’t have an easy life with her Mom, she had to work and go to school and she was caretaker through her mother’s illness.
Brooklyn not only lost her mom, but her home and everything she knew. Her only living relative is her uncle Jim lives in New York and took her in after her mother died. She barely knew her uncle and feels like a burden to him so she works to help with the rent. Jim is a janitor at Empire High which is one of the best schools in the country. So Brooklyn is able to attend school, but everyone considers her a scholarship student which are lowest of the low to the elite at the school.
Brooklyn has one friend, Kennedy who lives in the apartment down the hall from her. Their apartments are tiny compared to the lavish park avenue apartments of some of the other students. Brooklyn is drowning in sorrow and barely holding on but one thing that helps her is her crush on Matt Caldwell. Matt and Mason Caldwell and Robert and James Hunter make up the Untouchables. When Matt starts talking to Brooklyn she is amazed and elated.
However, something happens and Matt starts ignoring her. Brooklyn struggles to figure it out and she befriends another guy Felix who is in her Gym class. Both guys seem to like her but there are forces beyond her control that drive the action. I don’t want to give away any of the plot but to say that this is a Clean Romance. Though Brooklyn dates Felix and Matt and shares intimate kisses, that is about as far as it goes.
Though the lack of steam didn’t bother me because the story was so good. I was invested in these lives and I wanted things to come together and work out for everybody. Except the bully Isabella and her friends. I thought the ending was fantastic and I can’t wait for the next book. I seem to say that a lot but I really want to find out what happens next.
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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July 11, 2020
DNF 65%
This book is painful.
This book is painful.
Read
December 19, 2023Now a top 10 new release in the entire Kindle Store!
Now a top 10 Amazon Bestseller
#1 Billionaire Romance
#1 New Adult Romance
Empire High Untouchables is a high school bully romance between a small-town girl and Manhattan’s most elite son.
Grab your copy for FREE in Kindle Unlimited:
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Z3HgWi
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2VNDsq4
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2VOpxQw
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2VMOkVd
Paperback: https://amzn.to/38FcaYd
Audible: https://amzn.to/31OeP0a
Now a top 10 Amazon Bestseller
#1 Billionaire Romance
#1 New Adult Romance
Empire High Untouchables is a high school bully romance between a small-town girl and Manhattan’s most elite son.
Grab your copy for FREE in Kindle Unlimited:
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Z3HgWi
Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2VNDsq4
Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2VOpxQw
Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2VMOkVd
Paperback: https://amzn.to/38FcaYd
Audible: https://amzn.to/31OeP0a
June 10, 2021
Note to self: avoid. Not romance series. huge spoiler Spoilers
No HEA for this couple.
After 3 books, Matthew ends up with the heroines best friend. Yes, H/h are in love for 3 book- breal up, then Matt ends up with Kennedy 16 years later with the 4th book.
No HEA for this couple.
After 3 books, Matthew ends up with the heroines best friend. Yes, H/h are in love for 3 book- breal up, then Matt ends up with Kennedy 16 years later with the 4th book.
January 24, 2022
In the first book of the Empire High series, Untouchable, we meet Brooklyn Sanders. She’s just lost her mother and has been forced to move to New York City from her home in Delaware. Moving in with Uncle Jim, whom she barely knows, he’s secured her a spot at the prestigious Empire High where he’s served as a janitor for his entire career.
This first installment follows Brooklyn as she navigates this new phase of her life, the mean girls of EH, chiefly Isabella, and not one, but two love interests.
Just as she begins to settle in, her life again takes an unexpected turn which brings long-kept secrets right to her doorstep.
We’ve got a great supporting cast of characters, including Kennedy, Brooklyn’s new bestie, Felix, a kindhearted and fun-loving, albeit drug-dealing, love interest, and Matthew Caldwell, one-fourth of the Untouchables, and Brooklyn’s other love interest. The pace is slowish and the plot a bit predictable. Likewise, Brooklyn is naïve and oft annoying. That said, I know this is a cult favorite and I really do think there is potential for tremendous character growth, an interesting storyline, and an all-around great series.
🗂 Genre: Young Adult
📣 Untouchable is book one in the Empire High series and ends on a cliffhanger.
This first installment follows Brooklyn as she navigates this new phase of her life, the mean girls of EH, chiefly Isabella, and not one, but two love interests.
Just as she begins to settle in, her life again takes an unexpected turn which brings long-kept secrets right to her doorstep.
We’ve got a great supporting cast of characters, including Kennedy, Brooklyn’s new bestie, Felix, a kindhearted and fun-loving, albeit drug-dealing, love interest, and Matthew Caldwell, one-fourth of the Untouchables, and Brooklyn’s other love interest. The pace is slowish and the plot a bit predictable. Likewise, Brooklyn is naïve and oft annoying. That said, I know this is a cult favorite and I really do think there is potential for tremendous character growth, an interesting storyline, and an all-around great series.
🗂 Genre: Young Adult
📣 Untouchable is book one in the Empire High series and ends on a cliffhanger.
July 12, 2020
Remember how I said I seemed to be on a binge read of a series of disappointing books? Well, as much as I didn't want to say this, Empire High Untouchables turned out to be one of those poor decisions I've made. Generally speaking, the characters and the boarding school setting of this book were pretty okay, but I found it odd that the main female character, Brooklyn, all of a sudden just caught one of the Untouchables, Matthew Caldwell's, eye. They barely exchanged any greetings or proper introduction before getting to know each other in the beginning. Just because Matthew helped her out and checked upon her in the girl's restroom doesn't mean they could become soulmates. *shrugs*
Since I couldn't get past that tingling insta-love of their relationship, the rest of the story simply wasn't my biggest interest. The only reason this book was still bearable to me was the very ending. To my surprise, as much as I usually didn't appreciate a cliffhanger, the unexpected one here totally spiced everything up for me and I, for the first time, truly wasn't expecting something so temptingly good to happen in Brooklyn and Matt's story.
That being said, Empire High Untouchables was obviously NOT a standalone and I think if anyone's intrigued by the synopsis, I wouldn't stop you from picking this up. I could totally see its appeal considering all the insanely positive ravings about the book and I hope all of you would like it better than I did. Anyways, I didn't think I'd finish the rest of this series but if you did, please don't hesitate to let me know whether I should give it a second chance or not!
***Thanks to InkSlinger PR and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
Since I couldn't get past that tingling insta-love of their relationship, the rest of the story simply wasn't my biggest interest. The only reason this book was still bearable to me was the very ending. To my surprise, as much as I usually didn't appreciate a cliffhanger, the unexpected one here totally spiced everything up for me and I, for the first time, truly wasn't expecting something so temptingly good to happen in Brooklyn and Matt's story.
That being said, Empire High Untouchables was obviously NOT a standalone and I think if anyone's intrigued by the synopsis, I wouldn't stop you from picking this up. I could totally see its appeal considering all the insanely positive ravings about the book and I hope all of you would like it better than I did. Anyways, I didn't think I'd finish the rest of this series but if you did, please don't hesitate to let me know whether I should give it a second chance or not!
***Thanks to InkSlinger PR and the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
July 23, 2020
DNF
One word. Boring. I got about 20% of the way in before giving up and even that was being generous.
The heroine to me was so weak. Obsessed with some guy she only just met because she thought he was carefree. Didnt feel anything for the lead characters and there was no real connection for me.
On top if this, I love a good, strong leading character but this definitely wasn't Brooklyn and then throw in her annoying friend Kennedy and I was done.
Don't know how this got such a good rating tbh.
One word. Boring. I got about 20% of the way in before giving up and even that was being generous.
The heroine to me was so weak. Obsessed with some guy she only just met because she thought he was carefree. Didnt feel anything for the lead characters and there was no real connection for me.
On top if this, I love a good, strong leading character but this definitely wasn't Brooklyn and then throw in her annoying friend Kennedy and I was done.
Don't know how this got such a good rating tbh.
March 20, 2020
Okay so I was gifted a early copy of EHU! It took me 1 night to finish it. It was that great but I am honestly not surprised because everything Ivy Smoak writes is amazing and I always love it. I love Brooklyn she is my second favorite Female character because come on Penny is my favorite. This book is so emotional because of everything Brooklyn has been through she kinda reminds me of Summer in a way. Empire High is what you imagine snobby kids and rude popular kids who think they are the best thing ever. Especially Isabella which for everyone who has read The Hunted Series you know what I mean. You also get to know a little bit more about characters we already know and love. I can not wait for everyone to read this! Ivy You did it again with another amazing book! I can't wait for book 2! 5 stars for this book!
November 16, 2020
Synopsis:
The Hunter and the Caldwell brothers are The Untouchables of Empire High. A school where Brooklyn Sanders started a week ago. Niece of the janitor, Brooklyn thinks that rather it is she and her ‘scholarship student’ friend Kennedy Alcaraz who are the actual untouchables in the posh Empire High.
Sixteen-year-old Brooklyn has been noticing the brothers from her first day in school. But she seems to have eyes only for Matthew Caldwell. After all that she has had to face recently, it is only him who makes her feel alive. But in this high school where the poor students are treated as pariahs, will Matt even notice her?
Review:
James and Robert Hunter, and Mason and Matthew Caldwell are the royalty of Empire High. They live in their own world, aloof from most of the other students. After losing her mother and still not settled in her new school, Brooklyn lives in the constant fear of something bad about to happen.
Narrated in the first person from Brooklyn’s perspective, this is a story of high school drama, of broken hearts, of finding love, of letting it tear you apart. Of the sadness that is a part and parcel of our lives and yet about trying to find the silver linings in the heavy clouds that loom over the horizon. Brooklyn knows that Matt is bad news for her, especially the way he treats her – like some dirty secret – and yet she always finds her way back to him. There’s also a potential love triangle, but to answer the author’s question at the end of the book, I am and always will be #TeamMatt. Sigh!
I felt the build-up was too slow. It felt too late, with Matt blowing hot and cold simultaneously. He felt all kinds of sweet to me though, towards the end. But then I wasn’t expecting the cliff-hanger. Though the fact that I will get more of Brooklyn and Matt makes my heart sing with joy! This is the first book I’m reading by Ivy Smoak, even though her Made of Steel Series has been on my TBR for a long time. Now, I look forward to reading her books.
There are so many things I’m looking forward to in the sequel. What is it exactly that Matt’s hiding? And the ending was something I wasn’t expecting at all. What a shocker it was! I can’t wait for the next book. This one had a tone of sadness running throughout the story which ended with another tragedy. But there was an inkling of a happy ever after too, so I will just hope for the best.
P.S. This would have been a solid five stars for me but for a little reference that I found problematic. The word ‘raped’ is casually thrown around – in jest – even if it was mentioned only once and that too in a chat between two girls. But what I think is that it is not a word that can be casually used, ever!
Thank you to InkSlinger PR for an e-ARC of the book.
My review of the books in the Empire High Series is as follows:
Empire High Untouchables | Empire High Elite | Empire High Betrayal
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
The Hunter and the Caldwell brothers are The Untouchables of Empire High. A school where Brooklyn Sanders started a week ago. Niece of the janitor, Brooklyn thinks that rather it is she and her ‘scholarship student’ friend Kennedy Alcaraz who are the actual untouchables in the posh Empire High.
Sixteen-year-old Brooklyn has been noticing the brothers from her first day in school. But she seems to have eyes only for Matthew Caldwell. After all that she has had to face recently, it is only him who makes her feel alive. But in this high school where the poor students are treated as pariahs, will Matt even notice her?
Review:
James and Robert Hunter, and Mason and Matthew Caldwell are the royalty of Empire High. They live in their own world, aloof from most of the other students. After losing her mother and still not settled in her new school, Brooklyn lives in the constant fear of something bad about to happen.
Narrated in the first person from Brooklyn’s perspective, this is a story of high school drama, of broken hearts, of finding love, of letting it tear you apart. Of the sadness that is a part and parcel of our lives and yet about trying to find the silver linings in the heavy clouds that loom over the horizon. Brooklyn knows that Matt is bad news for her, especially the way he treats her – like some dirty secret – and yet she always finds her way back to him. There’s also a potential love triangle, but to answer the author’s question at the end of the book, I am and always will be #TeamMatt. Sigh!
I felt the build-up was too slow. It felt too late, with Matt blowing hot and cold simultaneously. He felt all kinds of sweet to me though, towards the end. But then I wasn’t expecting the cliff-hanger. Though the fact that I will get more of Brooklyn and Matt makes my heart sing with joy! This is the first book I’m reading by Ivy Smoak, even though her Made of Steel Series has been on my TBR for a long time. Now, I look forward to reading her books.
There are so many things I’m looking forward to in the sequel. What is it exactly that Matt’s hiding? And the ending was something I wasn’t expecting at all. What a shocker it was! I can’t wait for the next book. This one had a tone of sadness running throughout the story which ended with another tragedy. But there was an inkling of a happy ever after too, so I will just hope for the best.
P.S. This would have been a solid five stars for me but for a little reference that I found problematic. The word ‘raped’ is casually thrown around – in jest – even if it was mentioned only once and that too in a chat between two girls. But what I think is that it is not a word that can be casually used, ever!
Thank you to InkSlinger PR for an e-ARC of the book.
My review of the books in the Empire High Series is as follows:
Empire High Untouchables | Empire High Elite | Empire High Betrayal
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
December 10, 2022
This story has been told many times. I only managed to finish this because I want to confirm my suspicions about the and guess what? I was right. I wish I wasn't because that end was so bad.
There was nothing here to support the plausibility of this storyline.
There was nothing here to support the plausibility of this storyline.
July 11, 2020
This another one of her awful books. A book that could have ended in ten pages, she is writing another book on this 1st book. Does this writer believes that it is her duty to bore readers to death. Her books are neither serious read nor funny and humorous. I am an avid reader and this is my last attempt to find her book interesting. Please stop these grandiose reviews of these awful books by this writer. I most especially d I slime the awful plotlines the boring nature of this book. I w o hold not recommend his book if the readers do not want experience total frustration wanting to pull your hair out,strand by strand until you are completely bald. I can't
think of one individual I would recommend this book to. This is horrible, horrible book to read. Do not recommend!!
think of one individual I would recommend this book to. This is horrible, horrible book to read. Do not recommend!!
July 9, 2020
Where do I even begin with this? OH. I know. IT WAS AMAZING. Although you can’t just go dropping epic bombs on me and expect me to wait for the next installment!
I was fortunate and lucky enough to be a part of Ivy’s ARC team, so I received this book in advance of its release date. No spoilers are below! I read this in literally ONE DAY. The day I got it!
Absolutely a MUST READ. One of the things I’ve really loved about Ivy’s books is her ability to connect all of the characters together within the novels. Every character is so relatable, and EHU is on par with that.
You have your mean girls (and if you’ve read the Hunted series, you’ll know who I’m talking about), you have the jocks (the Untouchables, the Caldwells and Hunters), and then you have your main girl, Brooklyn, your average, ordinary, invisible girl.
Brooklyn is so easy to relate to. She suffers from everything that everyone suffers through in high school and more. I found myself relating so much to her experiences, minus the steamy boyfriend (in my dreams, am I right??), her struggles, her uncertainty. Whether you’re a 16 year old girl struggling through high school, a 26 year old finally getting her roots in her career, or a well established woman with a family of 4, you will find yourself absolutely unable to put this book down!
Though EHU is a standalone, it tells the story of Matt Caldwell and sheds light on the high school life of characters from her other books (which I also HIGHLY recommend!), so read it on its own, read it before Temptation, or read it after you’ve read her other books!
Ivy hits it out of the park yet again! You will not regret picking this one up, folks. Romance, uncertainty, struggle, love, confusion, this has it all! This feels exactly like Ivy’s other books, yet sets itself apart as a different tempo, but stays intertwined with her other series. Keep rockin, Ivy!
I’m DYING to know when the next installment will be released.
I was fortunate and lucky enough to be a part of Ivy’s ARC team, so I received this book in advance of its release date. No spoilers are below! I read this in literally ONE DAY. The day I got it!
Absolutely a MUST READ. One of the things I’ve really loved about Ivy’s books is her ability to connect all of the characters together within the novels. Every character is so relatable, and EHU is on par with that.
You have your mean girls (and if you’ve read the Hunted series, you’ll know who I’m talking about), you have the jocks (the Untouchables, the Caldwells and Hunters), and then you have your main girl, Brooklyn, your average, ordinary, invisible girl.
Brooklyn is so easy to relate to. She suffers from everything that everyone suffers through in high school and more. I found myself relating so much to her experiences, minus the steamy boyfriend (in my dreams, am I right??), her struggles, her uncertainty. Whether you’re a 16 year old girl struggling through high school, a 26 year old finally getting her roots in her career, or a well established woman with a family of 4, you will find yourself absolutely unable to put this book down!
Though EHU is a standalone, it tells the story of Matt Caldwell and sheds light on the high school life of characters from her other books (which I also HIGHLY recommend!), so read it on its own, read it before Temptation, or read it after you’ve read her other books!
Ivy hits it out of the park yet again! You will not regret picking this one up, folks. Romance, uncertainty, struggle, love, confusion, this has it all! This feels exactly like Ivy’s other books, yet sets itself apart as a different tempo, but stays intertwined with her other series. Keep rockin, Ivy!
I’m DYING to know when the next installment will be released.
December 5, 2020
Not bad, not bad.
Empire High Untouchables is the first book of the series. The only reason I dove into it was because I got the ARC of like the 3rd one and figured I should dive into the first two books beforehand. I'm not going to lie, a lot happens in this. It's full of twists and turns and it seems like everyone has a hidden agenda.
I didn't know who to trust or who even Brooklyn should trust in this. I, of course, did love some characters in this book but others were really annoying. It's your casual rich kid private school with loads of bullying. Never knew a place where teachers could be bought with money and bully students themselves.. but that's what happens.
What really redeemed itself was the last handful of chapters. Wasn't expecting ANY of that to go down and now I'm worried for Brooklyn. Not sure what is going to go down in the next book but I'm ready for it all!
Empire High Untouchables is the first book of the series. The only reason I dove into it was because I got the ARC of like the 3rd one and figured I should dive into the first two books beforehand. I'm not going to lie, a lot happens in this. It's full of twists and turns and it seems like everyone has a hidden agenda.
I didn't know who to trust or who even Brooklyn should trust in this. I, of course, did love some characters in this book but others were really annoying. It's your casual rich kid private school with loads of bullying. Never knew a place where teachers could be bought with money and bully students themselves.. but that's what happens.
What really redeemed itself was the last handful of chapters. Wasn't expecting ANY of that to go down and now I'm worried for Brooklyn. Not sure what is going to go down in the next book but I'm ready for it all!
January 8, 2022
To be honest, this was a colossal mess and a waste of my time. I started this one because of the pretty covers, but the blurb fails to mention that this is a series that apparently is unfinished, moves at a snail pace and at some point does a fast forward to almost 20 years in the future, the heroine maybe dies and well is one huge giant cluster. So, not a HS romance, not a series of standalones. Anyway, the characters are very one dimensional, and nothing really happens in this one. I’ll rethink going back and giving the entire series a try once I find out how it ends…
August 17, 2022
I loved this book. I loved everything about it! It’s told strictly from Brooklyn’s POV. This is definitely more YA than a romance though. All the teens talk and think like a bunch of teenagers which I appreciate. I’ve read books where the authors have the teens talking like 30 year olds and it’s just awkward to read and was a no for me.
Brooklyn is sweet and caring and knows when to say no... mostly ;) My heart keeps breaking for her though. So much tragedy in her life at such a young age. I love the conflicting feelings she has between Felix and Matt even though we know who her true love is.
Also, there always has to be that one B in every HS who tries to make your life a living hell. That is well played out in this book.
But Why? Why does the book have to end the way it did Ivy? I’m 100% certain Isabella doesn’t know Newb is... Ha, NO SPOILERS from me!
Brooklyn is sweet and caring and knows when to say no... mostly ;) My heart keeps breaking for her though. So much tragedy in her life at such a young age. I love the conflicting feelings she has between Felix and Matt even though we know who her true love is.
Also, there always has to be that one B in every HS who tries to make your life a living hell. That is well played out in this book.
But Why? Why does the book have to end the way it did Ivy? I’m 100% certain Isabella doesn’t know Newb is... Ha, NO SPOILERS from me!
October 25, 2020
pretty good
Although the main characters naïveté got annoying at times, it was definitely essential to the plot. It made it easy for me to empathise with the main character so i enjoyed this book a lot. And I definitely cried more than once lol
Overall, looking forward to the next two :)
Although the main characters naïveté got annoying at times, it was definitely essential to the plot. It made it easy for me to empathise with the main character so i enjoyed this book a lot. And I definitely cried more than once lol
Overall, looking forward to the next two :)
December 7, 2019
So far I'm excited to read this book 📚 it looks like Ivy Smoak as hit another homerun with this one....
July 8, 2020
Empire High Untouchables is the start of a new series about the Hunter and Caldwell brothers who are called The Untouchables. The story takes place at an uber-wealthy private school in New York City. Brooklyn is in her first week as a new student at this school. Her mother recently passed away and she’s now living with an estranged uncle in New York City. She is not from a wealthy family. Her new best friend, Kennedy, is a fellow scholarship student at school. Brooklyn immediately takes a liking to one of the Untouchables, Matt Caldwell.
This was just an okay read for me. It sounded right up my alley but I started the book and immediately felt like I’d been dropped in the middle of a story. I think the issue was the book started one week after starting school. I felt like I missed the part where she gets introduced to the Untouchables and any interactions she may have had with them; because of this it felt a little like instant love. Her reasons for liking Matt were a little odd too. But, he wasn’t the best character. He only wanted to hang out with her in private, and gave her the cold shoulder in public, which made it really difficult to like him. Things I did enjoy were the relationships between Brooklyn and her Uncle Jim, and her friendship with Kennedy. There were some heartbreaking family issues towards the end that brought some emotion out of me. I am definitely in the minority but this was a solid three star read for me.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was just an okay read for me. It sounded right up my alley but I started the book and immediately felt like I’d been dropped in the middle of a story. I think the issue was the book started one week after starting school. I felt like I missed the part where she gets introduced to the Untouchables and any interactions she may have had with them; because of this it felt a little like instant love. Her reasons for liking Matt were a little odd too. But, he wasn’t the best character. He only wanted to hang out with her in private, and gave her the cold shoulder in public, which made it really difficult to like him. Things I did enjoy were the relationships between Brooklyn and her Uncle Jim, and her friendship with Kennedy. There were some heartbreaking family issues towards the end that brought some emotion out of me. I am definitely in the minority but this was a solid three star read for me.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 28, 2020
The one is very endearing. I laughed out loud so many times and cried a few times. I actually felt like Brooklyn did a great job standing up for herself, she's definitely a likeable character. I'm excited to see where the rest of the series takes us.
July 13, 2020
THIS IS BOOK ONE IN A SERIES, CLIFF HANGER ENDING.
While I was under the impression this was a standalone at the end you obviously know it is a series and for me that pissed me off. I'd like to know going it. Book #2 doesn't arrive till October 2020.
That said this was a fantastic read. Many of this style of story, the rich kids bullying the poor girl have been so overly impossible to enjoy due to believability. What Ms Smoak has done is weave a story, that is both enjoyable AND believable.
Brooklyn lost her mom and ends up in NYC living with an Uncle and his job as janitor lets her attend an exclusive, rich, high school, aka Empire High. There she has one friend, Kennedy, a neighbor, so also an untouchable, a scholarship kid, looked down on.
Also, at the school are a ton of judgmental bully types, both male and female. There are also 4 hot boys, the Untouchables. One being Matt who is an enigma. She thinks he doesn't see her, and then he steps into her world. Then when she is happy he did, then ghost her.... again and again.
Things are murky between these two. She fights her feelings vs his actions and when things turn their darkest he shines into t he light once again and then the cliffhanger will leave you with your mouth on the floor eager for book #2.
While I was under the impression this was a standalone at the end you obviously know it is a series and for me that pissed me off. I'd like to know going it. Book #2 doesn't arrive till October 2020.
That said this was a fantastic read. Many of this style of story, the rich kids bullying the poor girl have been so overly impossible to enjoy due to believability. What Ms Smoak has done is weave a story, that is both enjoyable AND believable.
Brooklyn lost her mom and ends up in NYC living with an Uncle and his job as janitor lets her attend an exclusive, rich, high school, aka Empire High. There she has one friend, Kennedy, a neighbor, so also an untouchable, a scholarship kid, looked down on.
Also, at the school are a ton of judgmental bully types, both male and female. There are also 4 hot boys, the Untouchables. One being Matt who is an enigma. She thinks he doesn't see her, and then he steps into her world. Then when she is happy he did, then ghost her.... again and again.
Things are murky between these two. She fights her feelings vs his actions and when things turn their darkest he shines into t he light once again and then the cliffhanger will leave you with your mouth on the floor eager for book #2.
June 17, 2020
Oh my gosh, i don't know where to begin! Ivy Smoak has done it again. This first book in her new series is amazing. I felt so in tune with Brooklyn. Not from her history, but her experiences in High School. The not fitting in, the bullying, searching for acceptance, so similar to my High School days. Isabella and her group really remind me of the movie Mean Girls. Rude, obnoxious, snobby...you name it, they are it. Brooklyn is a very likeable character. And oh the ending. I'm still wrapping my head around it. It's great to get a look of the characters from The Hunted Series as they were younger. I am ready to read more!! Another hit by Ivy Smoak!!
June 17, 2020
WOW!!!
I was lucky enough to be given a space on Ivys ARC team, and boy am i eternally grateful to have been given this book early!
Matt was always the silent secretive non committal type in the hunted/light of darkness/men of manhattan books, and i have always been intrigued about his back story.
This book has just left me speechless and wishing the 2nd book was already available! I Honestly didnt see this ending planned out... But i love it! I really love Brooklyn, shes such a sweet but unfortunate girl... And after reading this book im definitely #TeamMatt. Go get this book as soon as its available... Im telling you.. you will NOT be dissapointed!! ♥ ☺️
I was lucky enough to be given a space on Ivys ARC team, and boy am i eternally grateful to have been given this book early!
Matt was always the silent secretive non committal type in the hunted/light of darkness/men of manhattan books, and i have always been intrigued about his back story.
This book has just left me speechless and wishing the 2nd book was already available! I Honestly didnt see this ending planned out... But i love it! I really love Brooklyn, shes such a sweet but unfortunate girl... And after reading this book im definitely #TeamMatt. Go get this book as soon as its available... Im telling you.. you will NOT be dissapointed!! ♥ ☺️
June 18, 2020
I love how Ivy Smoak gives insight into each character and the tangled webs they weave. It was an emotional roller coaster. Friendship, loss, frustration, love, hate, confusion and utter shock. Hopefully there will be a follow up, because there is a lot more to learn. Hopefully Brooklyn will get her happy ending and put Isabella in her place.
June 17, 2020
Omg!!! So much fire and suspense. I am on eggshells and I can’t wait for the sequel.
October 5, 2022
I went ahead and spoiled myself for this series. Good thing I did.
March 26, 2020
First off, thank you to Ivy for gifting me an early paperback copy.
This book has so much packed into it that I don’t even know where to begin. There’s high school drama and then there’s HIGH SCHOOL drama. This was the latter. Rich spoiled kids just take it to another level. Also, there’s the fact that it’s an Ivy Smoak book.
Let’s just say that the drama and all the back and forth will leave you at the edge of your seat. Also I’m loving visiting with my favorite characters from her other books though I’m not loving everyone’s younger selves. I’m glad they grew up.
I’ve read everything that Ivy has put out and this one had my shocked with my mouth hanging open at the ending. I totally didn’t see that coming.....
This book has so much packed into it that I don’t even know where to begin. There’s high school drama and then there’s HIGH SCHOOL drama. This was the latter. Rich spoiled kids just take it to another level. Also, there’s the fact that it’s an Ivy Smoak book.
Let’s just say that the drama and all the back and forth will leave you at the edge of your seat. Also I’m loving visiting with my favorite characters from her other books though I’m not loving everyone’s younger selves. I’m glad they grew up.
I’ve read everything that Ivy has put out and this one had my shocked with my mouth hanging open at the ending. I totally didn’t see that coming.....
June 17, 2020
I swear I'm always glutton for punishment when I start a series... i always pick ones where they aren't complete and end in a freaking cliffhanger! I received an early copy for this book and it left me wanting so much more! The ending blew me away as I wasn't expecting it. I mean I should have because it's Ivy 😂 I enjoyed this story a lot and really love Matt and Brooklyn. Though... I'd like to strangle her a couple times and him too. I usually like every character, even when they are evil, but Isabella... omfg! I disliked her in The Hunted series and dislike her even more in High School.. keep some tissues handy because there are parts where you may need them! Can't wait for the rest of this series!
April 22, 2020
Can not wait to read whole book! Hsve been reading "snesk peak" chapters. Love Brooklyn. She is right up there with Summer and Penny as fsr as Ivy's heroines go! Also love sering Matt's character developing aling with the Hunters brothers as well as Msdon. Cant wait to get the whole book and series. Ivy slways delivers!
July 10, 2020
Ivy never disappoints! Loved reading about Matt in high school. Can’t wait to find out more about Brooklyn’s story. Total cliff hanger at the end - October can’t come soon enough!!!
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😍🥺😭😱
December 16, 2020
Oh boy, this book is pretty nuts. Brooklyn is the new girl at a fancy school where most kids are filthy rich. She's just lost her mom and is out of her depth with these kids who party hard and live in luxury. There must be an allure of being an outsider because several guys start to compete for her attention and other girls at school bully her because of it. Brooklyn gets sucked into blackmail and schemes and I'm not sure if she'll get out of it.
Brooklyn doesn't come from money, but it's a bit crazy how naïve she is. She gets drunk on accident, her best friend Kennedy isn't actually that great, and she gets pulled in by a guy who treats her like nothing in public but wants her to be his secret. I just wanted someone with sense to swoop in and rescue her, but unfortunately that doesn't happen. She's harassed and treated poorly and keeps trusting the wrong people.
The ending of this is sad and has a huge bomb dropped. I wonder how this will play out, I doubt it will be good...
Brooklyn doesn't come from money, but it's a bit crazy how naïve she is. She gets drunk on accident, her best friend Kennedy isn't actually that great, and she gets pulled in by a guy who treats her like nothing in public but wants her to be his secret. I just wanted someone with sense to swoop in and rescue her, but unfortunately that doesn't happen. She's harassed and treated poorly and keeps trusting the wrong people.
The ending of this is sad and has a huge bomb dropped. I wonder how this will play out, I doubt it will be good...
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