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Empire High #3
Empire High Betrayal
My new family is dangerous. I’ve heard the whispers. I’ve seen it firsthand. And my new last name puts me in danger too.
The only thing keeping me in this city is Matthew Caldwell. If I didn’t love him, I’d be long gone. But he says I’m changing. That I’m becoming the thing I hate. And I’m worried he might be right. What if I’m actually the dangerous one?
Because all I want to do is prove I belong here just as much as anyone else. I’m going to become one of the elite. I’m going to live like an Untouchable. And no one will be able to break me. Ever. Again.
But while I’m focused on fitting into this new world, I forget that the stakes are so much bigger than who’s the most popular at Empire High. I’m playing with life and death.
I should have seen it coming. After all…I betrayed everyone to get to where I am. It makes sense that one of them would betray me too.
The only thing keeping me in this city is Matthew Caldwell. If I didn’t love him, I’d be long gone. But he says I’m changing. That I’m becoming the thing I hate. And I’m worried he might be right. What if I’m actually the dangerous one?
Because all I want to do is prove I belong here just as much as anyone else. I’m going to become one of the elite. I’m going to live like an Untouchable. And no one will be able to break me. Ever. Again.
But while I’m focused on fitting into this new world, I forget that the stakes are so much bigger than who’s the most popular at Empire High. I’m playing with life and death.
I should have seen it coming. After all…I betrayed everyone to get to where I am. It makes sense that one of them would betray me too.
373 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2020
About the author
Ivy Smoak
75 books7,559 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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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 958 reviews
January 18, 2021
Mobsters, monsters and more!
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: ❤️💙💜💛💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌎🌎
Character development: 👤👤👤👤👤
The setting: Empire High School
The Hero: Matthew Caldwell – he is in love with Brooklyn Sanders, but he made some mistakes, she did as well, so now he is trying to claim her publicly.
James Hunter – ex best friend of Matt, in love with Rachel, though he thinks she may not love him back. He makes a play for Brooklyn and helps her when nobody else will.
Rob Hunter – Likes to flirt with Brooklyn and seems to be her friend. Rob and James were best friends with Matt and his brother Mason until a secret about James’ girlfriend came out. Now the friends are enemies, but Brooklyn is caught in the middle.
The heroine: Brooklyn Sanders (Pruitt) – she is in love with Matthew Caldwell, but things are not always as simple as that. In the previous books, Matt convinced her to keep their relationship a secret because Isabella Pruitt was blackmailing him, so she turned to her bodyguard Miller. In this book, things change but are no less complicated.
The Love Story: Brooklyn and Matt have been through quite a bit in previous books, but they are finally together. Though Brooklyn’s half sister Isabella certainly is not making things easy for her.
This story was crazy and Isabella was the craziest part of it. Her evil smile got to me as well as Brooklyn and I guess I just didn’t understand why she wasn’t in Jail after what she did to Brooklyn (and Kennedy) in the last book. There were so many people in these books that I just hated sometimes and loved other times, it was so confusing for me. Though all these feelings are telling me that this is definitely a compelling read!
The world building was totally on point. There were a lot of houses, apartments, hotels, ballrooms, and more that were described in detail and I could totally picture everything like I was seeing it. The character development was great as well and the romance was much more steamy than in previous books. Though I wish it was even hotter.
This series has gone from crazy to outright psychotic but I really liked it. The book ended in a massive cliffhanger and I must say I was disappointed in what the author wrote about the next book. I have a feeling I am going to hate it with a passion. Though I am also going to hate the fact that it doesn’t come out till May of 2021!
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: ❤️💙💜💛💚
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌎🌏🌍🌎🌎
Character development: 👤👤👤👤👤
The setting: Empire High School
The Hero: Matthew Caldwell – he is in love with Brooklyn Sanders, but he made some mistakes, she did as well, so now he is trying to claim her publicly.
James Hunter – ex best friend of Matt, in love with Rachel, though he thinks she may not love him back. He makes a play for Brooklyn and helps her when nobody else will.
Rob Hunter – Likes to flirt with Brooklyn and seems to be her friend. Rob and James were best friends with Matt and his brother Mason until a secret about James’ girlfriend came out. Now the friends are enemies, but Brooklyn is caught in the middle.
The heroine: Brooklyn Sanders (Pruitt) – she is in love with Matthew Caldwell, but things are not always as simple as that. In the previous books, Matt convinced her to keep their relationship a secret because Isabella Pruitt was blackmailing him, so she turned to her bodyguard Miller. In this book, things change but are no less complicated.
The Love Story: Brooklyn and Matt have been through quite a bit in previous books, but they are finally together. Though Brooklyn’s half sister Isabella certainly is not making things easy for her.
This story was crazy and Isabella was the craziest part of it. Her evil smile got to me as well as Brooklyn and I guess I just didn’t understand why she wasn’t in Jail after what she did to Brooklyn (and Kennedy) in the last book. There were so many people in these books that I just hated sometimes and loved other times, it was so confusing for me. Though all these feelings are telling me that this is definitely a compelling read!
The world building was totally on point. There were a lot of houses, apartments, hotels, ballrooms, and more that were described in detail and I could totally picture everything like I was seeing it. The character development was great as well and the romance was much more steamy than in previous books. Though I wish it was even hotter.
This series has gone from crazy to outright psychotic but I really liked it. The book ended in a massive cliffhanger and I must say I was disappointed in what the author wrote about the next book. I have a feeling I am going to hate it with a passion. Though I am also going to hate the fact that it doesn’t come out till May of 2021!
I voluntarily read & reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts & opinions are my own.
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December 2, 2020
I loved the past two Empire High books and loved this book up until the ending. I know endings are supposed to ruffle feathers but I truly did not like it. There were a million other directions Ivy could have gone but Brooklyn dying was absurd. At the very least she could have made it a faked death to get away from Isabella. I read the series because of Brooklyn. She’d been through so much and she deserved more than what Ivy gave her. I also don’t want to read about Matt fifteen years later. I feel like I just wasted my time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2022
Wth; I’ll forget this series ever existed! Seriously...
December 16, 2020
I can't believe the author would end her series this way. After reading three books and watching Brooklyn be tormented and bullied and treated like garbage, this is like a screw you to the readers. What about this was good? I kept waiting and waiting for when Brooklyn finally came out on top and was happy but it never happened.
Brooklyn is forever a victim, someone that lets things happen to her and never takes her life in her own hands. Matt claims to love her but abandons her at the first sign of trouble. Kennedy is a liar and a wishy washy friend. Nothing that happened in the series gave me reason to like any of them.
I don't want to go on forever, just know that this will not end like you hope. There won't be the revenge you crave. You won't be smiling at the end.
I received this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Brooklyn is forever a victim, someone that lets things happen to her and never takes her life in her own hands. Matt claims to love her but abandons her at the first sign of trouble. Kennedy is a liar and a wishy washy friend. Nothing that happened in the series gave me reason to like any of them.
I don't want to go on forever, just know that this will not end like you hope. There won't be the revenge you crave. You won't be smiling at the end.
I received this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 7, 2020
Empire High Betrayal by Ivy Smoak is very entertaining and not your typical romance.
I really enjoyed Empire High Betrayal. This story had so many different aspects. There were the typical romance elements, but there was so much more to the story. This story was intense with lots of family and friend drama. The story is about the elite except Brooklyn who is new to the elite world. Brooklyn has made mistakes. The ending was so crazy and was not expected at all.
I recommend Empire High Betrayal for anyone looking for an intense story that isn’t only romance.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for Empire High Betrayal.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
I really enjoyed Empire High Betrayal. This story had so many different aspects. There were the typical romance elements, but there was so much more to the story. This story was intense with lots of family and friend drama. The story is about the elite except Brooklyn who is new to the elite world. Brooklyn has made mistakes. The ending was so crazy and was not expected at all.
I recommend Empire High Betrayal for anyone looking for an intense story that isn’t only romance.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for Empire High Betrayal.
Full Review: https://justreadingjess.wordpress.com...
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November 27, 2020Don't forget to add book 4 to your TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Empire High Betrayal is live!!! Who's already grabbed their copy?
It's FREE in Kindle Unlimited:
-Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Io2QPf
-Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2IwnbSN
-Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2Ug185j
-Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2Ulcfde
-Hardback: https://amzn.to/2Ist7MJ
-Paperback: https://amzn.to/38wnMyF
-Audible: https://amzn.to/2IqIBjY
And don't forget to enter the spoiler room to discuss once you're finished reading: https://bit.ly/2Im7rlw
Blurb:
My new family is dangerous. I've heard the whispers. I've seen it firsthand. And my new last name puts me in danger too.
The only thing keeping me in this city is Matthew Caldwell. If I didn't love him, I'd be long gone. But he says I'm changing. That I'm becoming the thing I hate. And I'm worried he might be right. What if I'm actually the dangerous one?
Because all I want to do is prove I belong here just as much as anyone else. I'm going to become one of the elite. I'm going to live like an Untouchable. And no one will be able to break me. Ever. Again.
But while I'm focused on fitting in to this new world, I forget that the stakes are so much bigger than who's the most popular at Empire High. I'm playing with life and death.
I should have seen it coming. After all...I betrayed everyone to get to where I am. It makes sense that one of them would betray me too.
***
Empire High Betrayal is live!!! Who's already grabbed their copy?
It's FREE in Kindle Unlimited:
-Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2Io2QPf
-Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2IwnbSN
-Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/2Ug185j
-Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2Ulcfde
-Hardback: https://amzn.to/2Ist7MJ
-Paperback: https://amzn.to/38wnMyF
-Audible: https://amzn.to/2IqIBjY
And don't forget to enter the spoiler room to discuss once you're finished reading: https://bit.ly/2Im7rlw
Blurb:
My new family is dangerous. I've heard the whispers. I've seen it firsthand. And my new last name puts me in danger too.
The only thing keeping me in this city is Matthew Caldwell. If I didn't love him, I'd be long gone. But he says I'm changing. That I'm becoming the thing I hate. And I'm worried he might be right. What if I'm actually the dangerous one?
Because all I want to do is prove I belong here just as much as anyone else. I'm going to become one of the elite. I'm going to live like an Untouchable. And no one will be able to break me. Ever. Again.
But while I'm focused on fitting in to this new world, I forget that the stakes are so much bigger than who's the most popular at Empire High. I'm playing with life and death.
I should have seen it coming. After all...I betrayed everyone to get to where I am. It makes sense that one of them would betray me too.
***
January 3, 2023
In the second installment of the Empire High series, Brooklyn continues to, not only battle all of her own emotions, but she’s now in a full-blown war against Isabella as well.
I like that we’re seeing more of her father and that we’ve gotten to know some of the side characters a bit better.
There is so much about the series that transports you right back to high school amid the mean girls, parties, meddling parents, and the raging hormones, roller coaster of emotions. But the indecisiveness and immaturity have hit a new high for Brooklyn, in my opinion. That said, I know we’ve hit a pivotal point in the storyline and, as such, we’ll begin to see stronger adult themes, which I’m looking forward to! Likewise, the pace remained slowish in this installment but, the storyline took an interesting turn just as this chapter concluded.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Heat: 🫑
🗂 Genre: Young Adult
✨ Tropes: Cinderella
📣 Betrayal is book three in the Empire High series and ends on a cliffhanger.
I like that we’re seeing more of her father and that we’ve gotten to know some of the side characters a bit better.
There is so much about the series that transports you right back to high school amid the mean girls, parties, meddling parents, and the raging hormones, roller coaster of emotions. But the indecisiveness and immaturity have hit a new high for Brooklyn, in my opinion. That said, I know we’ve hit a pivotal point in the storyline and, as such, we’ll begin to see stronger adult themes, which I’m looking forward to! Likewise, the pace remained slowish in this installment but, the storyline took an interesting turn just as this chapter concluded.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Heat: 🫑
🗂 Genre: Young Adult
✨ Tropes: Cinderella
📣 Betrayal is book three in the Empire High series and ends on a cliffhanger.
October 27, 2020
Being that the previous book ends with the heroine taking off and the author making sure to put in at the the end that the hero is single in a crossover book that takes place ten years in the future, I’m a little lost as to why anyone would want to read this. It’s obvious that either they break up completely or they have an insane 10ish years separation. Either way this sounds like a freaking disaster and I’m avoiding. I appreciate a warning for this kind of thing, I shouldn’t have to read negative reviews to find out, and author should just not lie in their summaries.
November 15, 2020
What a viciously awful ending to the worst series of books I have ever read!!!! To kill off your main character in such a way leaves me to believe that the author is not only heartless but lazy and unorganized with her thoughts as well. I will never read a book by this author ever again. Just as it was a waste of a good book character, it was a waste a waste of my life reading this series. Save yourselves!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2021
Umm I don’t really know what to say about this book after that ending. And I’m so conflicted when it comes to rating it. So I’ll start with the series:
I didn’t like it tbh, so many high school books I’ve read the mcs are strong, switched on. Brooklyn’s character I found irritating, she didn’t take ownership for her actions or change her behaviour. And the whole marriage thing at 16 come on it was just ridiculous.
I also skim read the majority of this book because it irritated me. I didn’t suck me in like other books by Sheridan Anne, LJ Shen etc.
Brooklyn’s dads mob links didn’t surprise me I called it in the last book but the way he behaved at the end of the book threw me. I can’t figure out if he actually did or didn’t care about her.
And while we’re talking about that ending my jaw fell to the floor. Def wasn’t expecting it and I’m not sure how I feel about it so but let’s try:
1. Part of me is angry the ending happened like jeez she was 16 that cuts deep
2. Part of me applauses Ivy for giving us that ending because books tend to do the happy ever after route which don’t get me wrong I’m all about but the shock of that major curveball she gave us well I’m not sure I’ll ever get over the shock.
3. I have no idea whether Brooklyn’s dad did or didn’t actually care about her. That’s stumped me
4. Someone needs to throw isabellas ass in jail like seriously that girl needs a reality check and I wanna see her demise.
5. Part of me is questioning whether Brooklyn’s really dead? Or has her dad just given her an out of his world to protect her? Maybe she reappears when it’s safe in Matts book set 15 years on. Who knows maybe that’s just wishful thinking because the no hea is just a struggle for me.
I will read the next book because I just need to know what happens with Matt.
I didn’t like it tbh, so many high school books I’ve read the mcs are strong, switched on. Brooklyn’s character I found irritating, she didn’t take ownership for her actions or change her behaviour. And the whole marriage thing at 16 come on it was just ridiculous.
I also skim read the majority of this book because it irritated me. I didn’t suck me in like other books by Sheridan Anne, LJ Shen etc.
Brooklyn’s dads mob links didn’t surprise me I called it in the last book but the way he behaved at the end of the book threw me. I can’t figure out if he actually did or didn’t care about her.
And while we’re talking about that ending my jaw fell to the floor. Def wasn’t expecting it and I’m not sure how I feel about it so but let’s try:
1. Part of me is angry the ending happened like jeez she was 16 that cuts deep
2. Part of me applauses Ivy for giving us that ending because books tend to do the happy ever after route which don’t get me wrong I’m all about but the shock of that major curveball she gave us well I’m not sure I’ll ever get over the shock.
3. I have no idea whether Brooklyn’s dad did or didn’t actually care about her. That’s stumped me
4. Someone needs to throw isabellas ass in jail like seriously that girl needs a reality check and I wanna see her demise.
5. Part of me is questioning whether Brooklyn’s really dead? Or has her dad just given her an out of his world to protect her? Maybe she reappears when it’s safe in Matts book set 15 years on. Who knows maybe that’s just wishful thinking because the no hea is just a struggle for me.
I will read the next book because I just need to know what happens with Matt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2020
I couldn’t put it down. Ivy captures Isabella’s insanity perfectly and Brooklyn’s sweetness.
This book will take your breath away. Get ready to yell and scream at the book, at Ivy Smoak, at the characters... I can’t even explain. So many emotions.
I have no words.
This book will take your breath away. Get ready to yell and scream at the book, at Ivy Smoak, at the characters... I can’t even explain. So many emotions.
I have no words.
November 12, 2020
I have been so excited for this book and now that I'm finished, I am in total shock! This ending - OMG! I didn't see it coming!
The third book in the Empire High Series lives up to it's name. There are betrayals galore! This is a High School Bully book and man was it EVER! Matt and Brooklyn genuinely care for each other but there are too many interfering meddlers. Isabella takes the prize as the evil half-sister, playing her part better than Cinderella's step-sisters ever did! All the turns and twists this book took, I didn't know where it was going most of the time! Ivy, you are a genius!
I can't wait until next year to figure out what the world is going on when the next book is released!! Wish I could give it 10 STARS! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The third book in the Empire High Series lives up to it's name. There are betrayals galore! This is a High School Bully book and man was it EVER! Matt and Brooklyn genuinely care for each other but there are too many interfering meddlers. Isabella takes the prize as the evil half-sister, playing her part better than Cinderella's step-sisters ever did! All the turns and twists this book took, I didn't know where it was going most of the time! Ivy, you are a genius!
I can't wait until next year to figure out what the world is going on when the next book is released!! Wish I could give it 10 STARS! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
February 15, 2021
I truly don’t get this?
How does this series have any good reviews? It’s all pointless. There is not HEA. The main character either dies or people just think k she’s dead. Either way the next book picks up in 15 years... 15 freaking years. We just read three books that have no point. Why does anyone like this?
How does this series have any good reviews? It’s all pointless. There is not HEA. The main character either dies or people just think k she’s dead. Either way the next book picks up in 15 years... 15 freaking years. We just read three books that have no point. Why does anyone like this?
April 20, 2021
I just finished this book, and OH. MY. GOD. I can’t, words are escaping me right now, I just spent 20 mins in my car crying hysterically. Ivy why are you like this? Lol in all seriousness though, your twisted mind will forever keep me coming back for more!
November 12, 2020
Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon CA / Amazon AU
Um wow is about all I can say about this NOT FINAL installment of Empire High. Brooklyn and Matthew go through unbelievable amounts of obstacles and we're left with a FREAKIN HUGE cliffhanger!! Yes, another, but I really, really hope the next installment will bring us answers, closure, etc. because the way this one left off? Yeah let's just say I am a verrrry unhappy woman right now. I need the next book now, NOW please!
ARC via author for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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October 30, 2020
I was fortunate enough to get an early release and OMG. I am shook. It made me laugh and cry. I felt all the emotions. There were a few parts that I almost threw my kindle. Ivy is the ONLY author to make me so mad but still love her writing. EHB had me on edge the whole book. I absolutely LOVE the Hunted Series but Empire High series has stolen my heart.... Ivy I say this every time but 5 stars and if I could given more stars I definitely would! I can not wait for everyone to read this!
November 16, 2020
Empire High Betrayal can be said to be kind of a conclusion to Brooklyn and Matthew's story. There is so much joy to be had, all for the heartbreak at the end. There will be a Book Four, though.
Warning: This is a series where the books are in continuation. If you haven't read the previous book, then there may be SPOILERS in the review.
Synopsis:
Brooklyn Pruitt and Matthew Caldwell are officially a couple now. But Isabella is still after her life, their lives. There's a new side to Richard Pruitt, or so Brooklyn believes of her father.
She still is in the dark about what her father does for a living, though. But, everyone being shit scared of him surprises her. Will she finally be able to clear all the air, with herself, and with others, as to whom she would choose? And which family she would ultimately be loyal to?
Review:
Brooklyn comes out as more endearing in this one as she fights her uncertainties and tries to finally stand up for herself. It was kind of given though, the way her crazy half-sister treated her!
Empire High Betrayal continues the narrative from Brooklyn's first-person perspective. But we get Matthew's point of view too. Though it all feels too late.
It has too many laugh-out-loud moments, sexy times, and horrific ones as well. I don't know what I was expecting Brooklyn's father did for a living, but I honestly never expected that!
There is this uncertainty throughout the story, of something epically bad about to happen, but it didn't take away from the sweetness that was Matt and Brooklyn's relationship.
And in the author's own words, or should I say through Brooklyn's words... "All of it was hauntingly beautiful." The Halloween decorations. The author let her imagination run a riot in that one scene!
It was lovely seeing the Caldwells in their home setup though. Compared to the Pruitt's, or I would rather not compare them, they're such a lovely family. There is so much toxicity in the other families that the Caldwells felt like a breath of fresh air.
The ending felt so final. Oh no... I've not cried buckets while reading the ending of a book like this. Not in a long, long time. But I still want to hold on to hope. I mean, with her father being who he is, how can anyone be sure about Brooklyn at the end.
The title fits perfectly, it is the biggest betrayal that anyone can feel in their lives. And while the author promises a happy ever after in the near future in the next and final book of this series, I'm feeling devastated...
I hope that there is some form of punishment for the one who betrayed because it would all seem to be for nothing then. As much as I would like to say that I am not the kind of person, like Brooklyn, who wants revenge, here I definitely want to see that person burning in hell for what they did.
The author was just setting us up, the readers, for a big heartbreak. A much as I loved Brooklyn's character going through so many shades, immensely happy at her finally standing up to Isabella, and her and Matt's sweetness all throughout the book, it was only the feeling of helpless that I was left with, in the end.
And the author's note at the end just cemented the fact that there is no coming back from what happened. It just makes me feel all the sadder. I was #TeamMatt from the beginning, I still am, but I want more of Brooklyn and Matt, I always will want more of them.
I just realised, after re-reading my reviews of the previous books, about how perceptive I was that there literally seemed to be no hope, in the previous books, in this one, and the series. It's only the writing that made me go back, again and again.
If not for Ivy Smoak's powerfully emotional writing, her beautiful words flowing through my senses, hugging me through the depth of their sadness, I would rather not have read this series. Because I take back my words from the first book's review, that not that one only, but this entire series is tinged with misery. But, it does have its beautiful moments too.
And as happy as I am that I was introduced to Ms Smoak's writing this year, I don't think I could live with this much heartbreak. But I will keep on going back to her books, I surely will.
Now I understand why my fellow Smoak readers are always torn between loving and hating the author. Loving her for her writing and hating for the way the story might turn out.
P.S. The only solace I found was in the Reading Order of Ivy Smoak's books once I realised the sequence of events after this one ended. And I am glad that I chanced upon her books when I did, and am reading them in the order of events that occur. Sigh!
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
Warning: This is a series where the books are in continuation. If you haven't read the previous book, then there may be SPOILERS in the review.
Synopsis:
Brooklyn Pruitt and Matthew Caldwell are officially a couple now. But Isabella is still after her life, their lives. There's a new side to Richard Pruitt, or so Brooklyn believes of her father.
She still is in the dark about what her father does for a living, though. But, everyone being shit scared of him surprises her. Will she finally be able to clear all the air, with herself, and with others, as to whom she would choose? And which family she would ultimately be loyal to?
Review:
Brooklyn comes out as more endearing in this one as she fights her uncertainties and tries to finally stand up for herself. It was kind of given though, the way her crazy half-sister treated her!
Empire High Betrayal continues the narrative from Brooklyn's first-person perspective. But we get Matthew's point of view too. Though it all feels too late.
It has too many laugh-out-loud moments, sexy times, and horrific ones as well. I don't know what I was expecting Brooklyn's father did for a living, but I honestly never expected that!
There is this uncertainty throughout the story, of something epically bad about to happen, but it didn't take away from the sweetness that was Matt and Brooklyn's relationship.
And in the author's own words, or should I say through Brooklyn's words... "All of it was hauntingly beautiful." The Halloween decorations. The author let her imagination run a riot in that one scene!
It was lovely seeing the Caldwells in their home setup though. Compared to the Pruitt's, or I would rather not compare them, they're such a lovely family. There is so much toxicity in the other families that the Caldwells felt like a breath of fresh air.
The ending felt so final. Oh no... I've not cried buckets while reading the ending of a book like this. Not in a long, long time. But I still want to hold on to hope. I mean, with her father being who he is, how can anyone be sure about Brooklyn at the end.
The title fits perfectly, it is the biggest betrayal that anyone can feel in their lives. And while the author promises a happy ever after in the near future in the next and final book of this series, I'm feeling devastated...
I hope that there is some form of punishment for the one who betrayed because it would all seem to be for nothing then. As much as I would like to say that I am not the kind of person, like Brooklyn, who wants revenge, here I definitely want to see that person burning in hell for what they did.
The author was just setting us up, the readers, for a big heartbreak. A much as I loved Brooklyn's character going through so many shades, immensely happy at her finally standing up to Isabella, and her and Matt's sweetness all throughout the book, it was only the feeling of helpless that I was left with, in the end.
And the author's note at the end just cemented the fact that there is no coming back from what happened. It just makes me feel all the sadder. I was #TeamMatt from the beginning, I still am, but I want more of Brooklyn and Matt, I always will want more of them.
I just realised, after re-reading my reviews of the previous books, about how perceptive I was that there literally seemed to be no hope, in the previous books, in this one, and the series. It's only the writing that made me go back, again and again.
If not for Ivy Smoak's powerfully emotional writing, her beautiful words flowing through my senses, hugging me through the depth of their sadness, I would rather not have read this series. Because I take back my words from the first book's review, that not that one only, but this entire series is tinged with misery. But, it does have its beautiful moments too.
And as happy as I am that I was introduced to Ms Smoak's writing this year, I don't think I could live with this much heartbreak. But I will keep on going back to her books, I surely will.
Now I understand why my fellow Smoak readers are always torn between loving and hating the author. Loving her for her writing and hating for the way the story might turn out.
P.S. The only solace I found was in the Reading Order of Ivy Smoak's books once I realised the sequence of events after this one ended. And I am glad that I chanced upon her books when I did, and am reading them in the order of events that occur. Sigh!
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
November 11, 2020
Yami’s Bookshelf 5 Stars Review
This is the third, and final, installment of the Empire High prequel series.
Empire High Betrayal is like a refreshing breeze, this book is sweet, romantic, sad, dramatic, intense, surprising, the plots twists are incredible and made me totally tense and looking forward to what would happen.
Empire High Betrayal takes place in New York. The story begins in the exact same time and place that Empire High Elite finished… remember that cliffhanger, folks?
The third installment begins in that exact moment. Poor Brooklyn is stranded in an alley, somewhere in New York City, with no clothes and no phone, with a map that Isabella managed to distort for her, and James Hunter’s hotel key card. As Brooklyn pulls herself together, she decides to seek James’ help. She walks by herself, naked and wrapped in the map, all the way back to the hotel where the Homecoming dance is still taking place.
Folks, get ready, this is a rollercoaster of a ride waiting to happen. Please make sure you pick up this book. I have received an ARC for my honest opinion, but I also purchased the paperback to add it to my Ivy Smoak collection. This book is by far my most favorite one of Ivy’s thus far. There is just something so innocent and appealing in the love story between Matt and Brooklyn that it surpasses all others. Not to say all her other books are fantastic, but this one just pulled at the heartstrings and made me feel tingly inside.
As you have read in my previous reviews, I always have a special section strictly for Isabella. I just cannot with her anymore to be honest. I have concluded that Isabella is a sadistic, controlling, emotionally vacant person. She continually threatens Brooklyn into behaving by threatening the innocent lives of all the ones she cares about. I do not think we are ever told if she had a horrible childhood or not, I cannot imagine she did with all the money she has, but hot damn, Isabella does not have a single ounce of remorse in anything she does in her life. She is a sick and twisted individual. I cannot wait to see what truly happens to her in the Hunted series, which succeed the Empire High universe. I have read the first two books in the Hunted series, but after finishing Empire High Betrayal, I definitely need to revisit the first two books in the Hunted series.
You can’t ask for more with this final book and it clearly deserves more than five stars. My emotions have been all over the place since finishing it last night and my heart is shredded into so many pieces right now. Brooklyn and Matt’s story is hands down one of Ivy’s best-written books and I do not say that lightly. I absolutely loved it!
Ivy Smoak has done it again and she blew my mind with this one, just as I knew she would. Empire High Betrayal is simply incredible! I loved this book from start to finish. I'm not even exaggerating when I say that it's perfection.
Thank you, Ivy, for my ARC. I cannot wait to read what you have planned for in 2021!! You are incredible in every sense of the word!!
This is the third, and final, installment of the Empire High prequel series.
Empire High Betrayal is like a refreshing breeze, this book is sweet, romantic, sad, dramatic, intense, surprising, the plots twists are incredible and made me totally tense and looking forward to what would happen.
Empire High Betrayal takes place in New York. The story begins in the exact same time and place that Empire High Elite finished… remember that cliffhanger, folks?
The third installment begins in that exact moment. Poor Brooklyn is stranded in an alley, somewhere in New York City, with no clothes and no phone, with a map that Isabella managed to distort for her, and James Hunter’s hotel key card. As Brooklyn pulls herself together, she decides to seek James’ help. She walks by herself, naked and wrapped in the map, all the way back to the hotel where the Homecoming dance is still taking place.
Folks, get ready, this is a rollercoaster of a ride waiting to happen. Please make sure you pick up this book. I have received an ARC for my honest opinion, but I also purchased the paperback to add it to my Ivy Smoak collection. This book is by far my most favorite one of Ivy’s thus far. There is just something so innocent and appealing in the love story between Matt and Brooklyn that it surpasses all others. Not to say all her other books are fantastic, but this one just pulled at the heartstrings and made me feel tingly inside.
As you have read in my previous reviews, I always have a special section strictly for Isabella. I just cannot with her anymore to be honest. I have concluded that Isabella is a sadistic, controlling, emotionally vacant person. She continually threatens Brooklyn into behaving by threatening the innocent lives of all the ones she cares about. I do not think we are ever told if she had a horrible childhood or not, I cannot imagine she did with all the money she has, but hot damn, Isabella does not have a single ounce of remorse in anything she does in her life. She is a sick and twisted individual. I cannot wait to see what truly happens to her in the Hunted series, which succeed the Empire High universe. I have read the first two books in the Hunted series, but after finishing Empire High Betrayal, I definitely need to revisit the first two books in the Hunted series.
You can’t ask for more with this final book and it clearly deserves more than five stars. My emotions have been all over the place since finishing it last night and my heart is shredded into so many pieces right now. Brooklyn and Matt’s story is hands down one of Ivy’s best-written books and I do not say that lightly. I absolutely loved it!
Ivy Smoak has done it again and she blew my mind with this one, just as I knew she would. Empire High Betrayal is simply incredible! I loved this book from start to finish. I'm not even exaggerating when I say that it's perfection.
Thank you, Ivy, for my ARC. I cannot wait to read what you have planned for in 2021!! You are incredible in every sense of the word!!
November 8, 2020
Ivy!! I don't even know what to say! You've done it again! In the second book I honestly didn't care for Brooklyn too much, but she was much less wishy washy in this book and I really started to like her. After the Halloween party I thought I had a good read on where the book was going and how Isabella was going to ruin everything and then I was blindsided! Wow, did not see that coming. We finally find out a bit about the relationship agreement, Mr. Pruitt and what's behind those locked doors in both his apartments. Newsflash: Not at all what any of us thought. Ivy even makes it pretty clear why we never hear about Brooklyn in any of the Hunted Series. I want to be mad at the ending, but it's just too good. Like damn!
Once you get to chapter 37 just be prepared. Have the tissues and ice cream or chocolate on hand. You are going to need it. Wow, wow, wow!
Read this series, you won't be disappointed! Well done!
Once you get to chapter 37 just be prepared. Have the tissues and ice cream or chocolate on hand. You are going to need it. Wow, wow, wow!
Read this series, you won't be disappointed! Well done!
October 28, 2020
This book can not cone out fast enough!!!! Ivy is such a great writer. She knows how to keep you engaged in the story. You will cry, laugh, and get angry during her books 📚 one of my favorite authors!!!!
November 7, 2020
Excuse me while I continue to put the pieces of my heart back together after Ivy smoak just shattered it. I finished this book around midnight cause I just couldn't put it down.This book was such an emotional rollercoaster ride for me. I felt happy, I laughed, I was shocked and then just cried. I've been so attached to these characters since The Hunted series, and these books just make me love them even more, except Isabella. I've never really disliked a character as much as I dislike Isabella and that is all due to the author's writing talent. The book felt a little intense since I was just waiting for another short to drop. Wondering what other cruel plan Isabella had in-store for Brooklyn.
Even though at times Brooklyn's character frustrated the heck out me you can't help but love her and cheer her on. She's a character that has been through so much pain that I wish she would just finally get a little bit of happiness. "Why did no one ever love me?" This line just broke my heart. The same goes for Matt. I love reading Matt's character in these books and discovering the how and why he is so different from the other books. Empire High is supposed to be Matt's story and I'm truly hoping for an unexpected twist in book 4. I have a theory and just hope it happens, pretty please!!! Ivy Smoak you are an evil genius and I know you have something amazing planned for the next book. I truly cannot wait to read the conclusion.
Even though at times Brooklyn's character frustrated the heck out me you can't help but love her and cheer her on. She's a character that has been through so much pain that I wish she would just finally get a little bit of happiness. "Why did no one ever love me?" This line just broke my heart. The same goes for Matt. I love reading Matt's character in these books and discovering the how and why he is so different from the other books. Empire High is supposed to be Matt's story and I'm truly hoping for an unexpected twist in book 4. I have a theory and just hope it happens, pretty please!!! Ivy Smoak you are an evil genius and I know you have something amazing planned for the next book. I truly cannot wait to read the conclusion.
November 20, 2020
SPOIL ALERT!!! What just happened?!!!
I'm utterly confused. After three whole books, its going to end like that? Brooklyn is gone within the last few chapters? What a joke!! That's freaking terrible. I just wasted my time reading this series. I'm not a person that ever leave a bad feedback, but this is ridiculous. Isabella got away with literally everything. If you're going to kill off the main person in this series then make it better! I'm still wondering if Mr. Pruitt truly loved her or not because it wasn't explained besides what she thought before she was gone. I won't be reading anymore of this authors books. This disappointment is more than enough reason for me not to.
I'm utterly confused. After three whole books, its going to end like that? Brooklyn is gone within the last few chapters? What a joke!! That's freaking terrible. I just wasted my time reading this series. I'm not a person that ever leave a bad feedback, but this is ridiculous. Isabella got away with literally everything. If you're going to kill off the main person in this series then make it better! I'm still wondering if Mr. Pruitt truly loved her or not because it wasn't explained besides what she thought before she was gone. I won't be reading anymore of this authors books. This disappointment is more than enough reason for me not to.
August 5, 2020
Can not wait to read this book!! Ivy is one helluva writer and knows how to capture a reader in her books!!
November 7, 2020
I'm very into this series. While this one really pushed you a bit further than was believable for some 16 year old high schoolers, it entertained. From the crazy beginning (think where the last book ended off) to the crazy ending (another big cliffy), it was a wild ride.
Some things I liked were moments with Brooklyn and people who were decent to her. And there are other people I still don't know what I think of them yet, or know if they're all good or bad. Matt's mom and Kennedy I think, are good. So are Matt's friends. I mean now that I've read some of James' and Penny's books, I think all those guys are great. I do have to read The Light in my Darkness books though still. But anyways. The holidays are wild in this. Shocking, sometimes hillarious, emotional. Looking forward to book four!
Some things I liked were moments with Brooklyn and people who were decent to her. And there are other people I still don't know what I think of them yet, or know if they're all good or bad. Matt's mom and Kennedy I think, are good. So are Matt's friends. I mean now that I've read some of James' and Penny's books, I think all those guys are great. I do have to read The Light in my Darkness books though still. But anyways. The holidays are wild in this. Shocking, sometimes hillarious, emotional. Looking forward to book four!
November 6, 2020
Wow this book was amazing. I couldn’t put it down until I finished every last word. Brooklyn faces so many things but she still tries to stay strong through everything she faces from Isabella. Her love for Matt is that once in a lifetime all soul consuming love that everyone hopes for. I am at a lose for words it was that good. I cried like a baby. If your reading this review the only thing I can tell you is that if you haven’t read any of ivy’s books you need to start. She an amazing author. Her books suck you in from the very first page and send you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, and they leave you always wanting more. And that’s just what this book did. It left me wanting to know more, no it left me needing to know more. The time between this book and the next is going to feel like a lifetime.
November 6, 2020
I don’t know if I can find the words to describe how much this book touched my heart, but I’m going to try. This book took EHU and EHE and took it to the next level. EHB delivered exactly what it set out to do. A betrayal at every corner and never one you expected. Mrs. Caldwell can adopt me because she is the mom EVERYONE wants! Loving and accepting. Justin needs to be my BFF. I didn’t want this book or this series to end and I’m so thankful for the next book (EHM) because this book made me laugh till I almost peed my pants, ugly cry into a bowl of ice cream, give me hope times 1000% and then took me on a rollercoaster all over again! I now completely understand Matt and the other Untouchables. Ivy Smoak is an evil genius and I fricken love her for it!
August 5, 2020
Can't wait until we can find out what's going to happen next
Read
September 20, 2020I cant wait for this book to come out!!
November 8, 2020
This is the third book of the series. I took my time reading and devouring this book and I expected something different. This book exceeded for a lot my expectations. I began reading during my free time during the day and I realized that I won’t stop reading. The last part of the book is so intense, that i completed at 4 am and i was crying! The book is unexpected, you were waiting in the happily ever after but you will find that there is not and happy ending. The book is full of guilt, remorse, pain, betrayals, and love. You will understand why Matt is alone in The Hunter Series and The Light to my Darkness Series. The book end with broken characters, pain, desolation, and you will think: “What the heck?”
The good thing: There is another book!
This book is a master piece from Ivy Smoak. Amazing, full of drama and amazing character development. Full of twist and unexpected situations. The goods and goods and the bad are really bad.
A must read book from Ivy Smoak!
The good thing: There is another book!
This book is a master piece from Ivy Smoak. Amazing, full of drama and amazing character development. Full of twist and unexpected situations. The goods and goods and the bad are really bad.
A must read book from Ivy Smoak!
November 6, 2020
This book is not what I expected.
First things first, this is the third book in the Empire High series and you must read books one and two before reading this book. That being said on to my review.
I won't spoil this series for you and I truly did like all three books, I'm just very unhappy with how this all turned out. Brooklyn and Matt's story is heart wrenching and full of twists and betrayals. I know there is going to be another book to this series but it's not due out until sometime in 2021 and that just makes me hate the turn of events in this book all the more. I gave this book five stars because I did truly enjoy the journey of this story just not the outcome. I am hoping things get better in the next book in this series but that's far in the future. So for now I guess I'll just be disappointed with what has transpired so far.
First things first, this is the third book in the Empire High series and you must read books one and two before reading this book. That being said on to my review.
I won't spoil this series for you and I truly did like all three books, I'm just very unhappy with how this all turned out. Brooklyn and Matt's story is heart wrenching and full of twists and betrayals. I know there is going to be another book to this series but it's not due out until sometime in 2021 and that just makes me hate the turn of events in this book all the more. I gave this book five stars because I did truly enjoy the journey of this story just not the outcome. I am hoping things get better in the next book in this series but that's far in the future. So for now I guess I'll just be disappointed with what has transpired so far.
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