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Redwood Rebels #2
Heathen
I’ve done very bad things.
I’m not a good man.
There’s skeletons in my closet
And blood on my hands.
I should be reaching for that sliver of light.
But deep in the darkness lies the loyalty of my friends. Along with the secrets we’ve buried.
It’s become comfortable and safe and all I really know.
It’s all that I deserve.
Yet, there’s someone who thinks I’m worthy of conviction.
She’s the solemn in this chaotic world.
Frail and pale as snow with a cross around her neck.
She’s nothing I want, but everything I desire.
But she has secrets, too.
And keeping hers safe means I’m forced to expose mine.
She could be my chance at redemption.
Or she could be my biggest mistake of all.
“Take my hand,
I’ll show you the way.
There’s light in the dark.
I’ll keep your demons at bay.”
*Heathen is not a stand-alone and the series needs to be read in order*
*Trigger Warning: This book contains dark subject matters that some readers may find uncomfortable.
I’m not a good man.
There’s skeletons in my closet
And blood on my hands.
I should be reaching for that sliver of light.
But deep in the darkness lies the loyalty of my friends. Along with the secrets we’ve buried.
It’s become comfortable and safe and all I really know.
It’s all that I deserve.
Yet, there’s someone who thinks I’m worthy of conviction.
She’s the solemn in this chaotic world.
Frail and pale as snow with a cross around her neck.
She’s nothing I want, but everything I desire.
But she has secrets, too.
And keeping hers safe means I’m forced to expose mine.
She could be my chance at redemption.
Or she could be my biggest mistake of all.
“Take my hand,
I’ll show you the way.
There’s light in the dark.
I’ll keep your demons at bay.”
*Heathen is not a stand-alone and the series needs to be read in order*
*Trigger Warning: This book contains dark subject matters that some readers may find uncomfortable.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2021
About the author
Rachel Leigh
34 books4,190 followersRachel Leigh is a USA Today and International bestselling author of new adult and contemporary romances.
She loves to write—and read—flawed bad-boys and strong heroines. You can expect dark elements, a dash of suspense, and a lot of steam.
Her goal is to take readers on an adventure with her words, while showing them that even on the darkest days, love conquers all.
Rachel lives in Michigan with her husband, three little monsters (who aren’t so little anymore) and a couple of fur babies. When she’s not writing or reading, she’s likely lounging in leggings, with coffee in her hand, while binge watching her favorite reality tv shows.
Rachel Leigh is represented by SBR Media. For all subsidiary rights, please contact: stephanie@sbrmedia.com
Join Rachel's Readers Group: http://bit.ly/rl_ramblers
Facebook: rachelleighauthor
Instagram: rachelleighauthor
www.rachelleighauthor.com
She loves to write—and read—flawed bad-boys and strong heroines. You can expect dark elements, a dash of suspense, and a lot of steam.
Her goal is to take readers on an adventure with her words, while showing them that even on the darkest days, love conquers all.
Rachel lives in Michigan with her husband, three little monsters (who aren’t so little anymore) and a couple of fur babies. When she’s not writing or reading, she’s likely lounging in leggings, with coffee in her hand, while binge watching her favorite reality tv shows.
Rachel Leigh is represented by SBR Media. For all subsidiary rights, please contact: stephanie@sbrmedia.com
Join Rachel's Readers Group: http://bit.ly/rl_ramblers
Facebook: rachelleighauthor
Instagram: rachelleighauthor
www.rachelleighauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 237 reviews
February 9, 2021
MY REVIEW AND OTHERS: can also be found on my blog:
➽ KITTY KATS CRAZY ABOUT BOOKS
'HEATHEN' is the second full length 'Young Adult book in Rachel Leigh's 'redwood High' series. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.' Willa & Lars.
More suspense, more angst, more twists and turns, more revelations, and more chaos and mayhem. This had me sitting on the edge of my seat, the angst building up chapter by chapter boiling away in the background had me racing to that very last page to see how the author was going to wrap it all up had me inhaling this at record speeds.
Lars was like a brick wall, detached from the people around him, unemotional and unfeeling and we could even see that side of him when it came to the 'Dare' where Willa was concerned because he did it without question.
Whispering, sweater girl Willa, is a good girl through and through, has secretly lusted after Lars for years making her easily fall prey to his trapping her by giving up her virginity, trusting him wholeheartedly, until everything was leaked.
These two were as different as chalk and cheese, the good girl and the bad boy, they should never have crossed paths. I didn't see how these two would come together but that's where you have
to trust in the author and where she is leading you because in the end these two were just perfect for each other.
The secrets are escalating and are out of control as we try and unravel the murder mystery that's been laid at our feet as we try and connect all the dots. This series is getting better and better and pulls you in more and more.
January 20, 2021
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Style: Dark Bully Romance (High Scool)
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 3.5/5
Sexual: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Male: Popular & Dark
Series: Book 2
Pages: 3329
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
YAS YAS YAS! I say this with love, no disrespect to the first book, but this book was everything more than the first. I say this because; I found Book 1 to be likable but not great. Although the book is a continuation of book 1, this was more favorable, understandable and engaging. It was dark with dark subject matters that will be triggers (rape, pregnancy church/pastor etc..) I did not feel bored or felt the need to skip pages. I make it a rule not to judge a series by its first book, because I’ve read a few where I felt ok with book 1, and it makes you not want to continue a series. However, book 2, Lars, has manage to pull me from the cliff.
P.S.: Lars, prologue, the savagery of it all. So cold and so wrong. But it was needed to start the domino effect that is Lars and Willa.
ENJOYMENT:
I enjoyed this a lot. Yes, there were a lot of dark subject matters, but overall satisfaction from start to end was there for me.
CHEMISTRY:
Willa, just thinking of her, makes me want to cry. This is my second novel of the year so far where the female character deserves (MVC) most valuable character. Honestly, what she’s been through I have nothing bad to say about her. Lars, you dirty dog. A savage and HEATHEN but he will warm your heart. Redeemable character. Together both Willa and Lars represent opposites good and bad and their chemistry, I loved it. After reading this book, the title is so fitting. I felt this book gave me more from the characters.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Talon and Marni are back, and we have the rest of the guys, Tommy and Zed. I don’t feel like I know Tommy yet but, Zed has a whole lot of tick tick boom going on upstairs. I gave up on him in book one but with his makeup I am very much curious to see who and the type of female he will be matched with, assuming how this plot will continue to play out.
Overall, I love this book. I found myself enjoying it and didn’t want to put it down. As noted, the subject matters are dark and there was one particular scene that made my skin crawl *shivers*. For me, definitely better than book 1.
Trigger(s): rape, pregnancy church/pastor etc..
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Style: Dark Bully Romance (High Scool)
Story: 4/5
Enjoyment: 4/5
Dark Level: 3.5/5
Sexual: GOOD
Triggers: Yes
Male: Popular & Dark
Series: Book 2
Pages: 3329
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
STORY:
YAS YAS YAS! I say this with love, no disrespect to the first book, but this book was everything more than the first. I say this because; I found Book 1 to be likable but not great. Although the book is a continuation of book 1, this was more favorable, understandable and engaging. It was dark with dark subject matters that will be triggers (rape, pregnancy church/pastor etc..) I did not feel bored or felt the need to skip pages. I make it a rule not to judge a series by its first book, because I’ve read a few where I felt ok with book 1, and it makes you not want to continue a series. However, book 2, Lars, has manage to pull me from the cliff.
P.S.: Lars, prologue, the savagery of it all. So cold and so wrong. But it was needed to start the domino effect that is Lars and Willa.
ENJOYMENT:
I enjoyed this a lot. Yes, there were a lot of dark subject matters, but overall satisfaction from start to end was there for me.
CHEMISTRY:
Willa, just thinking of her, makes me want to cry. This is my second novel of the year so far where the female character deserves (MVC) most valuable character. Honestly, what she’s been through I have nothing bad to say about her. Lars, you dirty dog. A savage and HEATHEN but he will warm your heart. Redeemable character. Together both Willa and Lars represent opposites good and bad and their chemistry, I loved it. After reading this book, the title is so fitting. I felt this book gave me more from the characters.
SECONDARY CHARACTERS:
Talon and Marni are back, and we have the rest of the guys, Tommy and Zed. I don’t feel like I know Tommy yet but, Zed has a whole lot of tick tick boom going on upstairs. I gave up on him in book one but with his makeup I am very much curious to see who and the type of female he will be matched with, assuming how this plot will continue to play out.
Overall, I love this book. I found myself enjoying it and didn’t want to put it down. As noted, the subject matters are dark and there was one particular scene that made my skin crawl *shivers*. For me, definitely better than book 1.
Trigger(s): rape, pregnancy church/pastor etc..
***I don’t equate these stories to real life. It’s about personal taste and what you would or want to tolerate with the books you read. I know we all have different opinions and preferences with what we read and hope this review was helpful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2021
A DARK Enemies to Lovers High School Romance with Murder Mystery, Psycho Villains, Pure Madness, Hurt, Fucked-up shits, Past Pains, Hope, Flutters, Love, Twists, Revenge & Well-Deserved Justice.
I loved Lars & Willa. I adored our Other Redwood Rebels- Talon, Tommy, Zed. I DEVOURED this story within 5hrs.
Lars was Detached from Others, Unfeeling...Before Willa. Maybe that's why I didn't have major Feels for him in 'Striker', but here? I hated him for his Bad Choices but Loved him for wanting To Right'em (Eventually). Poor guy is Very Stressed.
Willa is Light, Hope, Angelic, Kind... Everything that Lars isn't. She had a Crush on Lars & 3 months ago, he used it: Due to a Bet, He took her Virginity. Zed Blasted that in a video to The Whole school (See why I hated Zed?). Willa's heart broke. Hate ignited. (FYI, Lars & Willa are in same Drama class.)
"These four guys took my innocent and made a mockery of me....They began this game and they are responsible for everything I’ve had to endure since that night."
I hate Her step-dad Pastor Jeffries, he's a Devil! (Not only to her Now but years ago to Zed too..) Willa's so Strong to have endured so much..*Tears*
Now 3 months later, a Lot has happened. After the events of 'Striker', Talon, Marni, Lars, Tommy are in a limbo. The murder mystery is Escalating. Trusting him maybe impossible BUT They need Zed back on their Side.
WHILE Lars & Willa have their individual Troubles too. His Looney Step-sis Madison is obsessed with him AND Willa's Pregnant. It's Lars' baby, supposedly (hmm?).
~Deflection, Assholish, Baby Talks, Zed's goal, Surprise, Runaway plan..
Willa Just needs Lars' money (he's rich), so to get away from this hellhole & be safe.
"I suppose that, deep down, we’re all a little broken, battered, and bruised. Those who pretend they’re not, are doing just that—pretending." ~Lars
Lars wants better for his own Family, to be there for them (Backstory ALERT!). BUT Zed wants to use her in his Revenge plan & Her Step-dad is Abusive, maybe it's better if she ran away?
"I never expected to develop this attachment to Willa. I don’t even think it’s just because of the baby. It’s this magnetic pull between us..."
~Baby's a Secret, Friends talk, Lars' Revenge is from Madison, Drama Swoons, Zed's back, Pastor's a fucker, Ensuring Willa's safety, L+W's growing feelings...
"Willa is my calm in this chaotic world. She drowns out the noise and brightens the darkest day."
All he wants is to protect & care for her. They spend time Together, Sparks Fly, He opens up to her, letting her in, Falls for her..Doing everything for her forgiveness. Soon desire reigns & feelings can't be ignored. He wants a life with her & their baby, Runaway with her.
Then Shocking Truths are Found...
~Doc's visit, Sex panic, whole Truth of Devil Pastor, Baby's Truth, Lars' anger at Jeff..
She did this for Survival. Lars' feelings for Willa haven't changed but she DID tell a big lie..He needs time.
Then Heart-racing, Twisty, Enlightening, Hopeful scenes happen!
~Stalker, Madison & Willa Meet *Oh shit*, Zed's plan's on (Willa helps!), Madison gone *Snicker*, Lars+Willa Talk (*Yay* Cue Hope & Love!), His home visit *Fun*, Party & New Starts, Doc visit & Seeing the baby❤, Zed got his Revenge (Plan's so Good!), Future's Bright!
Now Willa don't have to leave (Pastor's dead *Fist-pump*) & She+Lars can start their New life & Family here!
~School's Ongoing, Closure from Pain, Happiness...
And that Epilogue...Just Wow. It's Marni's Birthday party & we found a new Clue about the Murder Mystery! (This is getting Fun!) So excited for Tommy's book!
__Let's Talk about the Friends__
I loved Seeing Talon & Marni together!
I wonder what's happening with Tommy? He was great in 'Striker' but he's distant here.
Zed's.. Unexpected. I hated him (But had sympathy for what he'd endured) in 'Striker' but his last scenes here proves he's Worthy of Redemption.
**ARC Received for a Honest Review.**
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I loved Lars & Willa. I adored our Other Redwood Rebels- Talon, Tommy, Zed. I DEVOURED this story within 5hrs.
Lars was Detached from Others, Unfeeling...Before Willa. Maybe that's why I didn't have major Feels for him in 'Striker', but here? I hated him for his Bad Choices but Loved him for wanting To Right'em (Eventually). Poor guy is Very Stressed.
Willa is Light, Hope, Angelic, Kind... Everything that Lars isn't. She had a Crush on Lars & 3 months ago, he used it: Due to a Bet, He took her Virginity. Zed Blasted that in a video to The Whole school (See why I hated Zed?). Willa's heart broke. Hate ignited. (FYI, Lars & Willa are in same Drama class.)
"These four guys took my innocent and made a mockery of me....They began this game and they are responsible for everything I’ve had to endure since that night."
I hate Her step-dad Pastor Jeffries, he's a Devil! (Not only to her Now but years ago to Zed too..) Willa's so Strong to have endured so much..*Tears*
Now 3 months later, a Lot has happened. After the events of 'Striker', Talon, Marni, Lars, Tommy are in a limbo. The murder mystery is Escalating. Trusting him maybe impossible BUT They need Zed back on their Side.
WHILE Lars & Willa have their individual Troubles too. His Looney Step-sis Madison is obsessed with him AND Willa's Pregnant. It's Lars' baby, supposedly (hmm?).
~Deflection, Assholish, Baby Talks, Zed's goal, Surprise, Runaway plan..
Willa Just needs Lars' money (he's rich), so to get away from this hellhole & be safe.
"I suppose that, deep down, we’re all a little broken, battered, and bruised. Those who pretend they’re not, are doing just that—pretending." ~Lars
Lars wants better for his own Family, to be there for them (Backstory ALERT!). BUT Zed wants to use her in his Revenge plan & Her Step-dad is Abusive, maybe it's better if she ran away?
"I never expected to develop this attachment to Willa. I don’t even think it’s just because of the baby. It’s this magnetic pull between us..."
~Baby's a Secret, Friends talk, Lars' Revenge is from Madison, Drama Swoons, Zed's back, Pastor's a fucker, Ensuring Willa's safety, L+W's growing feelings...
"Willa is my calm in this chaotic world. She drowns out the noise and brightens the darkest day."
All he wants is to protect & care for her. They spend time Together, Sparks Fly, He opens up to her, letting her in, Falls for her..Doing everything for her forgiveness. Soon desire reigns & feelings can't be ignored. He wants a life with her & their baby, Runaway with her.
Then Shocking Truths are Found...
~Doc's visit, Sex panic, whole Truth of Devil Pastor, Baby's Truth, Lars' anger at Jeff..
She did this for Survival. Lars' feelings for Willa haven't changed but she DID tell a big lie..He needs time.
Then Heart-racing, Twisty, Enlightening, Hopeful scenes happen!
~Stalker, Madison & Willa Meet *Oh shit*, Zed's plan's on (Willa helps!), Madison gone *Snicker*, Lars+Willa Talk (*Yay* Cue Hope & Love!), His home visit *Fun*, Party & New Starts, Doc visit & Seeing the baby❤, Zed got his Revenge (Plan's so Good!), Future's Bright!
Now Willa don't have to leave (Pastor's dead *Fist-pump*) & She+Lars can start their New life & Family here!
~School's Ongoing, Closure from Pain, Happiness...
And that Epilogue...Just Wow. It's Marni's Birthday party & we found a new Clue about the Murder Mystery! (This is getting Fun!) So excited for Tommy's book!
__Let's Talk about the Friends__
I loved Seeing Talon & Marni together!
I wonder what's happening with Tommy? He was great in 'Striker' but he's distant here.
Zed's.. Unexpected. I hated him (But had sympathy for what he'd endured) in 'Striker' but his last scenes here proves he's Worthy of Redemption.
**ARC Received for a Honest Review.**
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May 9, 2021
Wow so much better than the first book. I actually enjoyed these characters and their story...
Curious about Tommy though... Jumping right into book 3
Curious about Tommy though... Jumping right into book 3
February 1, 2021
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 3.5/5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Lars
Heroine : Willa
Pace of the story : moderate
Angst Rating : 2/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Triggers Involved : Rape (not by the H)
Plot Summary :
Lars is in a dilemma. A certain accident in his and his friends life has put them all in danger and now it's up to him to change that. Things are under control until a past mistake of his comes back to change everything.
Willa has always loved Lars. But he never gave her the time of the day. That is until he did. Only to destroy her in the wrist possible way the next day. He took her spirit and crushed and never realised what his prank did to her. But now they were back together. Forced to work together. And it was becoming tough day by day to remember that he is still the monster in her dreams and not the boy who always entranced her.
Overall Opinion :
The book had a decent storyline and I enjoyed certain twists in this one!! The side characters were my favourite part and how the author kept us in suspense about who will be the next couple as well as unravelling secrets on the way!!
Now the negative part , I absolutely loathed the hero. Like there is no sugar coating it. He was so despicable in the starting that I can't even tell you guys. Yes he had a bit of character progress but then too I was not at all satisfied. I also expected the heroine to fight more but she didn't do that too so my disappointment just kept on adding. So Lars slept with Willa for a bet and then Leaked a video of her the next day. And then he never apologized. He straight away said that he had other things to take care of and dismissed the heroine for almost 60% of the book. Just thinking about his behaviour makes me so angry!!!!
Had Lars shown a little bit of decency , I would have absolutely loved this book but he always left a bitter taste in my mouth with this personality and then I just couldn't enjoy the book on an overall basis. That is my opinion for this one. However I am still excited for the next book because now we know who will have that story next and I will be continuing this series later.
Final Verdict :
I didn't like the H , who in turn made the whole Book bad for me.
The storyline was good and I enjoyed a certain plot twists.
The author has me intrigued and I will be continuing this series.
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February 6, 2021
FIVE HEATHEN STARS for Willa and Lars 💛🖤💛🖤!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
OMG!!!
This book is not for everyone, but thankfully it was a great choice for me.
Rachel has written another great book that has a superbly crafted plot and complex characters that won't leave you indifferent but will sometimes drive you crazy and all for the purpose that you can’t stop reading until you read the last sentence in the book.
"Heathen" is a dark high school bully romance with a lot of twists and turn because of which I couldn't stop reading it.
Willa is a typical sweet and innocent female character who slowly grew throughout the book and developed into a stronger person.
Lars is a male character who will take you to extremes because of his behavior towards Willa while on the other hand, you will not be able to resist his bad-boy attitude.
Willa and Lars' relationship is very complex and at times seems unattainable due to their differences, but their chemistry is strong enough to eventually connect them forever.
If you're looking for a dark bully high school romance and you also love Rachel's writing style, then this is the book for you!!!
Highly recommended!!!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
OMG!!!
This book is not for everyone, but thankfully it was a great choice for me.
Rachel has written another great book that has a superbly crafted plot and complex characters that won't leave you indifferent but will sometimes drive you crazy and all for the purpose that you can’t stop reading until you read the last sentence in the book.
"Heathen" is a dark high school bully romance with a lot of twists and turn because of which I couldn't stop reading it.
Willa is a typical sweet and innocent female character who slowly grew throughout the book and developed into a stronger person.
Lars is a male character who will take you to extremes because of his behavior towards Willa while on the other hand, you will not be able to resist his bad-boy attitude.
Willa and Lars' relationship is very complex and at times seems unattainable due to their differences, but their chemistry is strong enough to eventually connect them forever.
If you're looking for a dark bully high school romance and you also love Rachel's writing style, then this is the book for you!!!
Highly recommended!!!
January 29, 2021
*
Read more of my reviews at Whoo Gives A Hoot
*
THE REDWOOD REBELS are back and they're once again up to no good with their dark and twisted secrets that will leave you wholeheartedly consumed as you inhale all the words of this phenomenal page turner. Rachel Leigh is a brilliant storyteller and her characters are beautifully flawed in a way that you will instantly form this deep connection with them. My emotions were in overdrive, leaving my heart an emotional mess as I found my heart completely captivated by this epic tale.
Lars Titan is that quintessential bad boy with a cocky attitude that will have leave you all hot and bothered. He was a man of few words in the previous book, but there was just that little something about him that has intrigued me since the beginning and honestly I was so freaking excited to get to know him on a much deeper level. He is definitely the kind of character that keeps surprising you with every new twist and turn. Can I just admit that he was undeniably swoon-worthy and I might have had to change my panties after getting to know this sexy man.
Willa Mack is that little sweet and innocent pastor's (step)daughter that gets tangled up in a BET between Lars Titan and Zed King (my sexy, dark and mysterious man) that ultimately changes her life in a MAJOR way. She is just your typical granny sweater wearing shy and timid girl that should have NEVER gotten mixed up with the Redwood Rebels, but she did and her life will never be the same again. Willa is one of those characters that grows immensely throughout the story and let me just say that I had myself a lady boner for this heroine. Since I couldn't technically stake claim Lars (stupid rules saying you can't take all of Rachel Leigh's heroes), I decided that Willa had to be ALL mine because I am not afraid to say that I am in LOVE with this heroine and the strength she had.
HEATHEN was a breathtakingly emotional romance that had me head over heels in love with this couple. Lars and Willa are complete opposites, but truth be told I couldn't imagine a more perfect match because Lars needed someone to bring out a new side of him and Willa needed someone to test her limits and bring her out of her shell. Everything about this story was incredible and I absolutely how all of the Redwood Rebels stories are intertwined. I am already counting down the days until I can get my greedy hands on Tommy Chambers story because his is going to be a real GAME CHANGER!
THE REDWOOD REBELS are back and they're once again up to no good with their dark and twisted secrets that will leave you wholeheartedly consumed as you inhale all the words of this phenomenal page turner. Rachel Leigh is a brilliant storyteller and her characters are beautifully flawed in a way that you will instantly form this deep connection with them. My emotions were in overdrive, leaving my heart an emotional mess as I found my heart completely captivated by this epic tale.
Lars Titan is that quintessential bad boy with a cocky attitude that will have leave you all hot and bothered. He was a man of few words in the previous book, but there was just that little something about him that has intrigued me since the beginning and honestly I was so freaking excited to get to know him on a much deeper level. He is definitely the kind of character that keeps surprising you with every new twist and turn. Can I just admit that he was undeniably swoon-worthy and I might have had to change my panties after getting to know this sexy man.
Willa Mack is that little sweet and innocent pastor's (step)daughter that gets tangled up in a BET between Lars Titan and Zed King (my sexy, dark and mysterious man) that ultimately changes her life in a MAJOR way. She is just your typical granny sweater wearing shy and timid girl that should have NEVER gotten mixed up with the Redwood Rebels, but she did and her life will never be the same again. Willa is one of those characters that grows immensely throughout the story and let me just say that I had myself a lady boner for this heroine. Since I couldn't technically stake claim Lars (stupid rules saying you can't take all of Rachel Leigh's heroes), I decided that Willa had to be ALL mine because I am not afraid to say that I am in LOVE with this heroine and the strength she had.
HEATHEN was a breathtakingly emotional romance that had me head over heels in love with this couple. Lars and Willa are complete opposites, but truth be told I couldn't imagine a more perfect match because Lars needed someone to bring out a new side of him and Willa needed someone to test her limits and bring her out of her shell. Everything about this story was incredible and I absolutely how all of the Redwood Rebels stories are intertwined. I am already counting down the days until I can get my greedy hands on Tommy Chambers story because his is going to be a real GAME CHANGER!
February 16, 2021
I've got this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I think this is kind of becoming my thing and I hate it - reviewing books super late AND taking me waaaay too long to read!
I gotta confess two things:
1) For the first nearly half of the book I didn't really know what story I'm reading (I'll explain later)
2) After my confusion ended - this book was so good!
I'll explain why I was so confused...
I've read a few similar books to this book, but especially one that stood up to me (I won't write which, but if you'd like to know comment or shoot me a message).
So I was kind of mixing those two books together and it took me a while to figure out which is which.
Luckily after a few more chapters there was a scene I specifically remembered from this book and I jumped the ship and just sailed. Haha
The story now.
Amazing, well thought out and a little unpredictable at a certain point, I must admit.
We have the perfect christian girl named Willa and a bad boy named Lars. Willa was "not-so-secretly" in love with Lars throughout the years of school and beyond. The whole school obviously knew and what Lars' friends wouldn't do for a good dare, right? So now we had a dare that our bad boy Lars had to "make out" with Willa...unfortunately the dice rolls and the story goes on, BUT is it the way everyone sees it or is it something else? We have to figure that out.
To be honest I don't know whether I love or hate their interaction. On one side I was all in for them, after-all a bad boy and a good girl together? We all want that, right? But on the other side after what happened, I don't know if I'd want to be with a guy like him. Everything can change so...
The plot line of the book was maybe, probably better than the characters, haha. It was interesting, keeping me on my toes and unpredictable. I loved it! I was so on edge that I couldn't read the pages fast enough!
I was heart-broken and sad at times. Happy at other times.
This book was really so good! I would definitely recommend this one after the first book. It is a need and also you'd need to know how everyone else's story ends!
Thank you for letting me review this and I hope you liked my review.
I'd love to talk to anyone about this book, so let me know if you are interested.
I think this is kind of becoming my thing and I hate it - reviewing books super late AND taking me waaaay too long to read!
I gotta confess two things:
1) For the first nearly half of the book I didn't really know what story I'm reading (I'll explain later)
2) After my confusion ended - this book was so good!
I'll explain why I was so confused...
I've read a few similar books to this book, but especially one that stood up to me (I won't write which, but if you'd like to know comment or shoot me a message).
So I was kind of mixing those two books together and it took me a while to figure out which is which.
Luckily after a few more chapters there was a scene I specifically remembered from this book and I jumped the ship and just sailed. Haha
The story now.
Amazing, well thought out and a little unpredictable at a certain point, I must admit.
We have the perfect christian girl named Willa and a bad boy named Lars. Willa was "not-so-secretly" in love with Lars throughout the years of school and beyond. The whole school obviously knew and what Lars' friends wouldn't do for a good dare, right? So now we had a dare that our bad boy Lars had to "make out" with Willa...unfortunately the dice rolls and the story goes on, BUT is it the way everyone sees it or is it something else? We have to figure that out.
To be honest I don't know whether I love or hate their interaction. On one side I was all in for them, after-all a bad boy and a good girl together? We all want that, right? But on the other side after what happened, I don't know if I'd want to be with a guy like him. Everything can change so...
The plot line of the book was maybe, probably better than the characters, haha. It was interesting, keeping me on my toes and unpredictable. I loved it! I was so on edge that I couldn't read the pages fast enough!
I was heart-broken and sad at times. Happy at other times.
This book was really so good! I would definitely recommend this one after the first book. It is a need and also you'd need to know how everyone else's story ends!
Thank you for letting me review this and I hope you liked my review.
I'd love to talk to anyone about this book, so let me know if you are interested.
January 19, 2021
— arc provided for an honest review —
Heathen is the second book of the Redwood High series. Although the main couple is different, the secrets from the previous books still remain the same and more is revealed throughout this book.
From the beginning I was hooked on the fact that Lars and Willa are two completely different characters but together they seem to be stronger than the demons they face in their life. I liked the character development of both characters and how they were able to overcome the challenges that they were faced with.
Lars and Willa’s first interaction was left with heartache and hatred but along the way they both grew from what happened in the past in order to keep fighting in the present. I am really interested in what’s to come for the rest of the books in the series!
Heathen is the second book of the Redwood High series. Although the main couple is different, the secrets from the previous books still remain the same and more is revealed throughout this book.
From the beginning I was hooked on the fact that Lars and Willa are two completely different characters but together they seem to be stronger than the demons they face in their life. I liked the character development of both characters and how they were able to overcome the challenges that they were faced with.
Lars and Willa’s first interaction was left with heartache and hatred but along the way they both grew from what happened in the past in order to keep fighting in the present. I am really interested in what’s to come for the rest of the books in the series!
January 28, 2021
The saga continues as each of the four seeks their own revenge. Hang on because you won’t expect what’s coming your way.
The four made a pact. Each of them chooses a mark and they all help to exact the revenge that is chosen. Talon got his and now he’s ready to help Lars, Tommy, and Zed to get theirs.
There is always collateral damage. These boys take what they need to get what they want. It’s messy. Reputations will be ruined, blood will be shed, lives will be lost, but ultimately freedom will be achieved. Revenge will be delivered without mercy because the targeted deserve none.
I went into this story blind after doing a re-read of Striker. I wanted this story fresh in my mind, as it is complex. There are many players and we are still trying to uncover the truth.
Some questions will be answered, but not all just yet. More of the story will unfold, but it’s not over. I am eager for more. The story definitely kept me riveted. Question everything and everyone, because they all have secrets and one of them has become the master of the plot. Tensions will run high and friendships will be tested, but their loyalty comes before all else.
When Talon set out for his revenge in Striker, he found Marni in the process. Their revenge will lead them to more than the peace they were seeking, they will find a love they never knew they needed.
I am hooked on this series and I will be looking forward to the next book. I need to know how this revenge pact plays out.
The four made a pact. Each of them chooses a mark and they all help to exact the revenge that is chosen. Talon got his and now he’s ready to help Lars, Tommy, and Zed to get theirs.
There is always collateral damage. These boys take what they need to get what they want. It’s messy. Reputations will be ruined, blood will be shed, lives will be lost, but ultimately freedom will be achieved. Revenge will be delivered without mercy because the targeted deserve none.
I went into this story blind after doing a re-read of Striker. I wanted this story fresh in my mind, as it is complex. There are many players and we are still trying to uncover the truth.
Some questions will be answered, but not all just yet. More of the story will unfold, but it’s not over. I am eager for more. The story definitely kept me riveted. Question everything and everyone, because they all have secrets and one of them has become the master of the plot. Tensions will run high and friendships will be tested, but their loyalty comes before all else.
When Talon set out for his revenge in Striker, he found Marni in the process. Their revenge will lead them to more than the peace they were seeking, they will find a love they never knew they needed.
I am hooked on this series and I will be looking forward to the next book. I need to know how this revenge pact plays out.
November 13, 2021
MF Romance
High School Mystery (ongoing storyline)
*Trigger warning due to this book’s plot
4 Stars
I’ve wanted to read this series forever especially after finding out book 3 was MM 🥰 However, book 1 of this series bored me because I didn’t care for Marni or Talon. They bugged me and the book dragged because of it. But I wanted to read the MM book and this has an ongoing plot line that is essential to the story so I kept at it and was surprised by how much I liked it. Surprised because it has my all time hated trope and yet I didn’t DNF it on the spot like I usually do when it happens so early in a book. I kept with it because of the ongoing storyline but also because I liked the characters!
This should be read only after reading book one or it won’t really make sense. I can’t give a synopsis because there’s too many plot points I don’t want to spoil. What I will say though is after book one, I really didn’t care for Lars and for the first part of this book, he was awful BUT there was just something about him that I wanted to know more about. Willa appears to be a doormat at first but she’s stronger than anyone has ever given her credit for. These two together were a match made in heaven and I loved watching the broken anti-hero get taken down to his knees by this supposedly sheltered wallflower. Still couldn’t stand Marni or Talon though 😂
I cannot wait for the next two books in this series. Tommy & Wyatt are up next followed by Zed who has been the most depraved and I’m dying to know more about him!!
High School Mystery (ongoing storyline)
*Trigger warning due to this book’s plot
4 Stars
I’ve wanted to read this series forever especially after finding out book 3 was MM 🥰 However, book 1 of this series bored me because I didn’t care for Marni or Talon. They bugged me and the book dragged because of it. But I wanted to read the MM book and this has an ongoing plot line that is essential to the story so I kept at it and was surprised by how much I liked it. Surprised because it has my all time hated trope and yet I didn’t DNF it on the spot like I usually do when it happens so early in a book. I kept with it because of the ongoing storyline but also because I liked the characters!
This should be read only after reading book one or it won’t really make sense. I can’t give a synopsis because there’s too many plot points I don’t want to spoil. What I will say though is after book one, I really didn’t care for Lars and for the first part of this book, he was awful BUT there was just something about him that I wanted to know more about. Willa appears to be a doormat at first but she’s stronger than anyone has ever given her credit for. These two together were a match made in heaven and I loved watching the broken anti-hero get taken down to his knees by this supposedly sheltered wallflower. Still couldn’t stand Marni or Talon though 😂
I cannot wait for the next two books in this series. Tommy & Wyatt are up next followed by Zed who has been the most depraved and I’m dying to know more about him!!
January 12, 2021
Holy crap. This book was everything. These characters were everything. I am just in awe of this authors story telling. *SLOW CLAP*
Ya know, normally when you read a series, book 1 always shines alittle brighter than the rest. In most cases that is the truth. But in this case, I have to point out that this book was equally as hypnotic as the first. Once I started reading I could not stop. You couldnt PAY me to stop. I inhaled/ravaged/FEASTED ON this story in one sitting!!!!
Lars was so tormented. Oh man, I loved my tortured man. I didnt think I would love him as much and as FULLY as I did.
I mean, yes I totally loved him and all the guys in book 1 but, in Heathen you really SEE Lars for who he is inside.
And Willa. Poor girl, I wanted to squeeze her and become her best friend. She was so lonely and had so much despair. So many secrets. They both did. And they needed each other so bad. They just didnt know it.
There are some side characters that I freaking loved! And there are some side characters that I wish were real so I could hurt them for hurting my Willa and Lars. Like, excuse me how dare you?
This book broke me and this book healed me.
This book gave me butterflies and this book had me feeling a deep pit of rage. This book was the perfect balance of sweetness, forgiveness and darkness. And I cannot, CAN NOT wait for book 3. You guys are not even ready. I AM NOT EVEN READY FOR WHAT RACHEL LEIGH HAS IN STORE FOR US.
5 stars is so miniscule for what this book deserves.
Ya know, normally when you read a series, book 1 always shines alittle brighter than the rest. In most cases that is the truth. But in this case, I have to point out that this book was equally as hypnotic as the first. Once I started reading I could not stop. You couldnt PAY me to stop. I inhaled/ravaged/FEASTED ON this story in one sitting!!!!
Lars was so tormented. Oh man, I loved my tortured man. I didnt think I would love him as much and as FULLY as I did.
I mean, yes I totally loved him and all the guys in book 1 but, in Heathen you really SEE Lars for who he is inside.
And Willa. Poor girl, I wanted to squeeze her and become her best friend. She was so lonely and had so much despair. So many secrets. They both did. And they needed each other so bad. They just didnt know it.
There are some side characters that I freaking loved! And there are some side characters that I wish were real so I could hurt them for hurting my Willa and Lars. Like, excuse me how dare you?
This book broke me and this book healed me.
This book gave me butterflies and this book had me feeling a deep pit of rage. This book was the perfect balance of sweetness, forgiveness and darkness. And I cannot, CAN NOT wait for book 3. You guys are not even ready. I AM NOT EVEN READY FOR WHAT RACHEL LEIGH HAS IN STORE FOR US.
5 stars is so miniscule for what this book deserves.
February 18, 2021
Heathen is book two in the Redwood High series. Striker book one is advisable to be read before you read this one. I thought book one was unputdownable and then I started this and I found I couldn’t put this down either. This author has yet again sucked me right in with her words.
There is a great storyline running through this series. With characters you can’t help but like I can’t recommend this highly enough.
Be warned there are dark themes and triggers in this story. I can’t wait for the next book.
There is a great storyline running through this series. With characters you can’t help but like I can’t recommend this highly enough.
Be warned there are dark themes and triggers in this story. I can’t wait for the next book.
January 19, 2021
Oh what a tangled web we weave....
Lars’ story kept me on the hook, just as much, if not more than Talon’s. I mean. Revenge, lust, love, fear, despair, there was just an array of chaotic energy that kept me reading all night long.
Willa was the perfect partner for Lars. A quiet innocence, a light shining bright and his darkness so deep, not a hint of innocence in sight. Yin and yang.
Leigh keeps weaving these incredible stories, and now I’ll just be over here, counting down to the next part of this series.
Lars’ story kept me on the hook, just as much, if not more than Talon’s. I mean. Revenge, lust, love, fear, despair, there was just an array of chaotic energy that kept me reading all night long.
Willa was the perfect partner for Lars. A quiet innocence, a light shining bright and his darkness so deep, not a hint of innocence in sight. Yin and yang.
Leigh keeps weaving these incredible stories, and now I’ll just be over here, counting down to the next part of this series.
February 8, 2021
Rating 4.5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Loved it,once again we are submerged in this world that Rachel created with Redwood High series of lies, revenge, betrayals, bully, dark craziness, emotional, intense, love, forgiveness and steamy sex. We see Lars mature before our eyes, and Willa is just a sweet girl, that grabbed my heart right on chapter one!
Things are not what they appear to be, some mystery are answered, others just start!
I am loving this series, and can't wait for book 3.
This book might have some triggers.
Definitely not a standalone, you will need to read Striker first or you will be completing lost! They do get a little HEA🥰 I recommend this book, and this series!
ARC was given to me by Author, thank you! My review is given completely voluntarily ❤️!!!
Loved it,once again we are submerged in this world that Rachel created with Redwood High series of lies, revenge, betrayals, bully, dark craziness, emotional, intense, love, forgiveness and steamy sex. We see Lars mature before our eyes, and Willa is just a sweet girl, that grabbed my heart right on chapter one!
Things are not what they appear to be, some mystery are answered, others just start!
I am loving this series, and can't wait for book 3.
This book might have some triggers.
Definitely not a standalone, you will need to read Striker first or you will be completing lost! They do get a little HEA🥰 I recommend this book, and this series!
ARC was given to me by Author, thank you! My review is given completely voluntarily ❤️!!!
October 16, 2022
Really enjoying these characters and how the mystery is playing out over the series.
January 20, 2021
I was so very fortunate to have received a ARC Copy Of Heathen By Rachel Leigh . This is book #2 in the redwood rebels series , Striker must be read first as they are interconnected. I absolutely loved this book , and it also happens to be a enemies to lovers , dark high school romance , one of my very favorite tropes .
This is Lars and Willas story , and I was hooked from the first page .Lars is the bad boy , and you can’t help but fall in love with him , especially as you get to know him better .Willa is the quiet , unnoticed church girl , who has a lot more feistiness then you would think . I could not put this book down , it has it all , angst , darkness , a amazing couple , lots of chemistry and heat . I don’t often find a book or a author that hold my interest from the very first chapter but RACHEL Does it every time . I highly recommend this book 💜❤️💜❤️
This is Lars and Willas story , and I was hooked from the first page .Lars is the bad boy , and you can’t help but fall in love with him , especially as you get to know him better .Willa is the quiet , unnoticed church girl , who has a lot more feistiness then you would think . I could not put this book down , it has it all , angst , darkness , a amazing couple , lots of chemistry and heat . I don’t often find a book or a author that hold my interest from the very first chapter but RACHEL Does it every time . I highly recommend this book 💜❤️💜❤️
January 19, 2021
First and foremost, I just want to give everyone a heads up that this book does have trigger warnings. It’s a dark romance and does have dark subject matters that some may find uncomfortable....
That being said.... I F’N LOOOOOVED THIS BOOK!!!
This is the second book in the Redwood Rebels series and follows Lars’ story. To say that he’s f’d up is an understatement... all of them kinda are in their own way. But that just makes us love them more when they find their hearts. After reading Striker I remember saying to myself... how the hell can I love one of these asshats!? But after reading this book... I’m ugly crying and going “but Lars is MY asshat now!!” Yeah.... weird? Maybe. Do I care? Hell no! I love my little asshat so much!!!
It’s no secret that Lars isn’t perfect. He’s far from it. There’s a tiny sliver of light calling to him... but deep down in the darkness lie the loyalty of his friends.... along with their secrets they’re trying to bury. Will they stay buried or will they come dropping down, destroying the safety walls around them? And when Lars finds someone who actually believes that he’s worthy of conviction, even if she is the Pastors daughter, will she be able to stand beside him, or will her own secrets destroy everything?
Is she his redemption or his biggest mistake?
Seriously! I thought nothing could be better than Striker and then what does Rachel do? She brings in Lars and Willa and she completely tears down the walls around me, rips out my heart, shatters it and does a happy dance around the broken pieces before she puts it back together!
The skeletons in both Lars and Willa’s closets are just... they’re so gut wrenching. I felt so bad for each of them. I wanted to crawl into the book and just wrap them both up in my arms and cry for them. They emotions run strong in this book. You don’t get to where Lars is without getting blood on your hands.
There’s still a lot of shit going on in this book to do with Josh and you also get to meet a little psycho! Everyone loves a psycho, right? LOL This character really brings the crazy into this story and it seems like our Redwood Rebels will never catch a break. Secrets get revealed, surprising twists await you around the corner and the book ends on an OMG cliffhanger! I really cannot wait for the third book to release but this one will have you on the edge of your seat for the time being!
Release date: January 28, 2021
Pre-order your copy now!
That being said.... I F’N LOOOOOVED THIS BOOK!!!
This is the second book in the Redwood Rebels series and follows Lars’ story. To say that he’s f’d up is an understatement... all of them kinda are in their own way. But that just makes us love them more when they find their hearts. After reading Striker I remember saying to myself... how the hell can I love one of these asshats!? But after reading this book... I’m ugly crying and going “but Lars is MY asshat now!!” Yeah.... weird? Maybe. Do I care? Hell no! I love my little asshat so much!!!
It’s no secret that Lars isn’t perfect. He’s far from it. There’s a tiny sliver of light calling to him... but deep down in the darkness lie the loyalty of his friends.... along with their secrets they’re trying to bury. Will they stay buried or will they come dropping down, destroying the safety walls around them? And when Lars finds someone who actually believes that he’s worthy of conviction, even if she is the Pastors daughter, will she be able to stand beside him, or will her own secrets destroy everything?
Is she his redemption or his biggest mistake?
“Take my hand,
I’ll show you the way.
There’s light in the dark.
I’ll keep your demons at bay.”
Seriously! I thought nothing could be better than Striker and then what does Rachel do? She brings in Lars and Willa and she completely tears down the walls around me, rips out my heart, shatters it and does a happy dance around the broken pieces before she puts it back together!
The skeletons in both Lars and Willa’s closets are just... they’re so gut wrenching. I felt so bad for each of them. I wanted to crawl into the book and just wrap them both up in my arms and cry for them. They emotions run strong in this book. You don’t get to where Lars is without getting blood on your hands.
There’s still a lot of shit going on in this book to do with Josh and you also get to meet a little psycho! Everyone loves a psycho, right? LOL This character really brings the crazy into this story and it seems like our Redwood Rebels will never catch a break. Secrets get revealed, surprising twists await you around the corner and the book ends on an OMG cliffhanger! I really cannot wait for the third book to release but this one will have you on the edge of your seat for the time being!
Release date: January 28, 2021
Pre-order your copy now!
January 30, 2021
This story was a fabulous second novel in this series, which must be read in order.
”I have no f*cking idea what it is with Willa, but she’s getting to me. She’s crawling into my skin and I can feel her piercing the veins of my heart.”
When Lars Titan (popular, bad boy, school god) takes advantage of Willa Mack (religious, invisible, good girl), he doesn’t anticipate how much he’s about to ruin her life. Lars was the boy who felt virtually nothing and remained detached from people. He valued his three best friends and that’s about it, although there’s something about Willa that unexpectedly pricks at him. Lars and his friends are caught up in a messed up situation of their own making with their need to take revenge on those who have wronged them. Lars is trapped by his secrets, and then one of their own has betrayed them. Three months after his encounter with Willa, she drops a bomb on him. However, the quiet, good-hearted girl is not the girl he took advantage of and she’s harbouring plenty of secrets of her own.
”I never imagined that the girl who would ignite a flame in my dark world would be the one standing in front of me.”
OH.MY.GOD! This story had so much going on with its twisty, dark plot. Deep down, I really don’t believe that Lars is a bad boy. The trauma that happened to his family deeply affected him. I loved how gentle Willa calmed him. Her goodness seeped into him and made him want to be a better person. Willa was unbelievably strong and resilient. The things she had suffered were horrible yet she was determined enough to make a plan and attempt to carry them out. The love between Lars and Willa seemed unlikely because his indifference to people around him extended towards her, but once he really saw her, he couldn’t look away. I loved that he recognised everything good in her and his desire to help and protect her. As Lars and Willa’s story progressed, there were plenty of other players thrown into the mix, which made for a hella twisty story, full of intrigue and surprises. I read as fast as I could because, seriously, the mysteries that unfolded more than piqued my interest. I feel invested in the well-being and happiness of these four guys, who’ve seen and done more than life should expect out of them at such a young age. Roll on March for Tommy’s story!
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/RMZ5C8B...
”I have no f*cking idea what it is with Willa, but she’s getting to me. She’s crawling into my skin and I can feel her piercing the veins of my heart.”
When Lars Titan (popular, bad boy, school god) takes advantage of Willa Mack (religious, invisible, good girl), he doesn’t anticipate how much he’s about to ruin her life. Lars was the boy who felt virtually nothing and remained detached from people. He valued his three best friends and that’s about it, although there’s something about Willa that unexpectedly pricks at him. Lars and his friends are caught up in a messed up situation of their own making with their need to take revenge on those who have wronged them. Lars is trapped by his secrets, and then one of their own has betrayed them. Three months after his encounter with Willa, she drops a bomb on him. However, the quiet, good-hearted girl is not the girl he took advantage of and she’s harbouring plenty of secrets of her own.
”I never imagined that the girl who would ignite a flame in my dark world would be the one standing in front of me.”
OH.MY.GOD! This story had so much going on with its twisty, dark plot. Deep down, I really don’t believe that Lars is a bad boy. The trauma that happened to his family deeply affected him. I loved how gentle Willa calmed him. Her goodness seeped into him and made him want to be a better person. Willa was unbelievably strong and resilient. The things she had suffered were horrible yet she was determined enough to make a plan and attempt to carry them out. The love between Lars and Willa seemed unlikely because his indifference to people around him extended towards her, but once he really saw her, he couldn’t look away. I loved that he recognised everything good in her and his desire to help and protect her. As Lars and Willa’s story progressed, there were plenty of other players thrown into the mix, which made for a hella twisty story, full of intrigue and surprises. I read as fast as I could because, seriously, the mysteries that unfolded more than piqued my interest. I feel invested in the well-being and happiness of these four guys, who’ve seen and done more than life should expect out of them at such a young age. Roll on March for Tommy’s story!
Blog: https://readingwillingable.blogspot.c...
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/review/RMZ5C8B...
January 27, 2021
I love how dark and twisted this series! The suspense and secrets are definitely keeping me hooked.
4 boys, 1 revenge pact... each boy gets his revenge no questions asked. In Heathen it’s Lars turn to call in his revenge although Zed also gets some of his own revenge.
Lars was not at all like what I expect. He describes himself as a monster but in reality I think he just needed someone to make him feel and Willa knocks him on his ass with what he feels for her.
Willa had always been in love with Lars but he unknowingly ruins her life after he takes her virginity and the videos are posted.
3 months after that dreadful night Willa drops a bombshell on Lars, but she is also hiding some dark and twisted secrets of her own.
I loved the characters. They were both broken in their own ways but the character growth by them is amazing. My heart broke for them both, the skeletons they both hide will shatter you but then the strength they showed and the way Lars showed up and took care of what was his was nothing short of special!
There is some major chemistry and some very heated scenes as their relationship develops. I love that Lars softens and opens up to Willa and Willa changes from being a quiet, shy church goer to being strong feisty and determined.
On top of all this we also get to meet a little stalker psycho...what’s better than getting rid of one person who deserves revenge? Getting rid of two!!!
Some secrets from Striker are answered but there is definitely so much more to discover in this series and I cannot wait to see who Tommy wants to get revenge on. I love this dark twisted world!
Amazing work Rachel!!
Please note there is trigger warnings with this book and some content is quite dark.
4 boys, 1 revenge pact... each boy gets his revenge no questions asked. In Heathen it’s Lars turn to call in his revenge although Zed also gets some of his own revenge.
Lars was not at all like what I expect. He describes himself as a monster but in reality I think he just needed someone to make him feel and Willa knocks him on his ass with what he feels for her.
Willa had always been in love with Lars but he unknowingly ruins her life after he takes her virginity and the videos are posted.
3 months after that dreadful night Willa drops a bombshell on Lars, but she is also hiding some dark and twisted secrets of her own.
I loved the characters. They were both broken in their own ways but the character growth by them is amazing. My heart broke for them both, the skeletons they both hide will shatter you but then the strength they showed and the way Lars showed up and took care of what was his was nothing short of special!
There is some major chemistry and some very heated scenes as their relationship develops. I love that Lars softens and opens up to Willa and Willa changes from being a quiet, shy church goer to being strong feisty and determined.
On top of all this we also get to meet a little stalker psycho...what’s better than getting rid of one person who deserves revenge? Getting rid of two!!!
Some secrets from Striker are answered but there is definitely so much more to discover in this series and I cannot wait to see who Tommy wants to get revenge on. I love this dark twisted world!
Amazing work Rachel!!
Please note there is trigger warnings with this book and some content is quite dark.
January 24, 2021
“𝙰𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚖𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛 𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚠𝚑𝚘 𝚖𝚊𝚍𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚖 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚢.“
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
*ARC ᴘʀᴏᴠɪᴅᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴇxᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇ ғᴏʀ ᴀɴ ʜᴏɴᴇsᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ*
Holy pie. I absolutely loved Heathen and have zero complaints what so ever. I was absolutely over the moon to be lucky enough to get an ARC of this after reading book one. Heathen isn’t a standalone and Striker (book one) does need to be read first. Don’t get me wrong I loved Striker, I did give it 5 ⭐️, but Heathen hit me differently. The whole story has so much more depth, feeling, and growth within it.
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
Willa - I loved her. Truly loved her. There’s so much to her character. But I’ve never felt betrayal like it when you find out the truth, but I also just wanted to cuddle her because I got it. I understood why she did what she did when she was backed into a corner. OBVIOUSLY I’m keeping this vague because you just wanna go in blind to what’s going on.
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
Lars, man alive, does he show up and step up. I would say he’s not so much of a bully vibe as Rhys was in Striker, but he just gave me his all. Lars has so much he keeps hidden, he has many secrets and they completely explain why he is the way he is.
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
@rachelleighauthor you should be proud of yourself with this one. Heathen has left me wanting more and more. I need to know every little detail about the Redwood Rebels and I need it now. Please. I have no idea how Zed has got me back on his side, but he has.
Heathen was absolutely perfect, and if you haven’t got it added to your TBR list don’t speak to me. The whole series so far is simply incredible.
Heathen releases on 28th January so you guys and gals haven’t got long to wait 💖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
*ARC ᴘʀᴏᴠɪᴅᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴇxᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇ ғᴏʀ ᴀɴ ʜᴏɴᴇsᴛ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ*
Holy pie. I absolutely loved Heathen and have zero complaints what so ever. I was absolutely over the moon to be lucky enough to get an ARC of this after reading book one. Heathen isn’t a standalone and Striker (book one) does need to be read first. Don’t get me wrong I loved Striker, I did give it 5 ⭐️, but Heathen hit me differently. The whole story has so much more depth, feeling, and growth within it.
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
Willa - I loved her. Truly loved her. There’s so much to her character. But I’ve never felt betrayal like it when you find out the truth, but I also just wanted to cuddle her because I got it. I understood why she did what she did when she was backed into a corner. OBVIOUSLY I’m keeping this vague because you just wanna go in blind to what’s going on.
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
Lars, man alive, does he show up and step up. I would say he’s not so much of a bully vibe as Rhys was in Striker, but he just gave me his all. Lars has so much he keeps hidden, he has many secrets and they completely explain why he is the way he is.
✝️✝️✝️✝️✝️
@rachelleighauthor you should be proud of yourself with this one. Heathen has left me wanting more and more. I need to know every little detail about the Redwood Rebels and I need it now. Please. I have no idea how Zed has got me back on his side, but he has.
Heathen was absolutely perfect, and if you haven’t got it added to your TBR list don’t speak to me. The whole series so far is simply incredible.
Heathen releases on 28th January so you guys and gals haven’t got long to wait 💖
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 27, 2021
*Arc is provided in exchange for an honest review*
“𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐚𝐲.”
Heathen is the second book in the Redwood Rebels series, and if you’re a fan of pregnancy trope books then this will be the perfect read for you!
This book really excited me because from the little information we knew about Willa in the previous book I was really excited to see how this played out.
Willa was a character that stole my heart! I was in tears over her throughout this book. My favourite aspect of this book was seeing her growth as a person from going to a shy and meek girl to someone who stood up for herself and gave no fucks. She had me internally hyping her up every time she made Lars work for her love.
I absolutely loved Willa and Lars so much their relationship was definitely not an easy one but it was so heartwarming to see their relationship grow. Lars legit had me going from wanting to scream at him to wanting to give him a big hug! We saw him battle his own demons and finally get closure.
I loved the little glimpses we got of Talon, Marni, Zed and Tommy. But one character who really stole the spotlight is Zed, my heart absolutely broke for him I really went from despising him to sympathising with him. I absolutely can’t wait for his book because, there’s so much more to be said for him and I can’t wait to see who he gets paired with because she will definitely be special. The epilogue left me really intrigued for the next book I can’t wait to read Tommy’s story.
“𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐦 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐚𝐲.”
Heathen is the second book in the Redwood Rebels series, and if you’re a fan of pregnancy trope books then this will be the perfect read for you!
This book really excited me because from the little information we knew about Willa in the previous book I was really excited to see how this played out.
Willa was a character that stole my heart! I was in tears over her throughout this book. My favourite aspect of this book was seeing her growth as a person from going to a shy and meek girl to someone who stood up for herself and gave no fucks. She had me internally hyping her up every time she made Lars work for her love.
I absolutely loved Willa and Lars so much their relationship was definitely not an easy one but it was so heartwarming to see their relationship grow. Lars legit had me going from wanting to scream at him to wanting to give him a big hug! We saw him battle his own demons and finally get closure.
I loved the little glimpses we got of Talon, Marni, Zed and Tommy. But one character who really stole the spotlight is Zed, my heart absolutely broke for him I really went from despising him to sympathising with him. I absolutely can’t wait for his book because, there’s so much more to be said for him and I can’t wait to see who he gets paired with because she will definitely be special. The epilogue left me really intrigued for the next book I can’t wait to read Tommy’s story.
January 24, 2021
This book is still dark, intense, thrill, and heartbreaking. The secret continues because they still need to figure something out first but the main couples in this book are change from Talon and Marni to Lars and Willa. Willa has been in love with Lars for so long and I think Lars feels something about her too because even when he used her, he still wanted to protect her from his friends. Lars' life is so mess up both from his family and his friends but I think deep down he is a good guy. Willa is a good girl all her life but after Lars and his friends ruined her life, it kept sprinting downward. And even if it makes her become stronger, she still want to leave the town. The plots, both from the secret that continues from Striker (Book 1 in the series) and Willa's nightmare, keep twisted every turning page and even if they give me my headache, I still keep reading because the story is so good I can't put it down until I read it through the end. Of course, Lars and Willa get their own happy ending together but if you think the secret has been taken care off, think again and the clue is on the epilogue. So be warned again, this book can't be read as a stand-alone and keep open-minded while you are reading it ;)
January 30, 2021
With a gripping and fast paced story, Heathen is the second book in the Redwood Rebels Series by Rachel Leigh, and it is even better than the first one.
Lars is a young man who is faced with the unpredictable and decides to take a turn in his life as soon as he gets to know Willa better, the girl who’s once been a victim of him and the rebels.
Willa is the righteous girl at school, the one who has never been desired by the hot guys, but has always held feelings for the rebel who broke her heart and changed her life for good on the day she thought she could trust him.
I started this book right after finishing the first one. There’s something about Leigh’s style that leaves us wanting more and I couldn’t put this down.
The more you read and get to know the characters and their agenda, the more invested you get in this world Leigh’s created. I loved changing my opinion about the characters! I wasn’t expecting that.
The plot twist in the story makes it all better and I’m sure lovers of YA bullying, enemies to lovers romances will really enjoy this one!
The third book in the series, VALT, is releasing on March 25th so make sure to read the first two books beforehand and enjoy the ride!
Lars is a young man who is faced with the unpredictable and decides to take a turn in his life as soon as he gets to know Willa better, the girl who’s once been a victim of him and the rebels.
Willa is the righteous girl at school, the one who has never been desired by the hot guys, but has always held feelings for the rebel who broke her heart and changed her life for good on the day she thought she could trust him.
I started this book right after finishing the first one. There’s something about Leigh’s style that leaves us wanting more and I couldn’t put this down.
The more you read and get to know the characters and their agenda, the more invested you get in this world Leigh’s created. I loved changing my opinion about the characters! I wasn’t expecting that.
The plot twist in the story makes it all better and I’m sure lovers of YA bullying, enemies to lovers romances will really enjoy this one!
The third book in the series, VALT, is releasing on March 25th so make sure to read the first two books beforehand and enjoy the ride!
January 18, 2021
OMGah! I absolutely loved this book! It was awesome getting a closer look into the mind of Lars and watching him evolve into something he never thought he could be. Willa was absolutely awesome. They proved that opposites really do attract.
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking a good bully romance. It has all the angst!
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking a good bully romance. It has all the angst!
January 18, 2021
OMGah! I absolutely loved this book! It was awesome getting a closer look into the mind of Lars and watching him evolve into something he never thought he could be. Willa was absolutely awesome. They proved that opposites really do attract.
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking a good bully romance. It has all the angst!
I highly recommend this book for anyone looking a good bully romance. It has all the angst!
January 29, 2021
Ok this is the second book in the series and focuses on Lars. I loved how the author left us guessing with every page turned. Willa is sweet and has been overlooked for so long. She is not considered a beauty but is innocent. I wouldn't wish what she went through on anyone. Please be aware that this book does contain triggers that others may find upsetting. This book still left me with so many questions and I am definitely looking forward to book 3.
January 29, 2021
I loved the angst, suspense and mystery surrounding the characters in this story. He was the ultimate bad boy and she was the perfect foil to his character. I loved everything about this story. Fast paced, engaging and highly entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 19, 2021
This series is EVERYTHING. Lars and Willa are magnetic. I have been hooked from page 1! Striker was amazing and Heathen is equally as great. With series of standalones, I sometimes have a hard time getting into the other characters because of my love for the ones in book one, but holy crap this was a ride. I stayed up most of the night reading and then finished up on my lunch break. I cannot wait to see how this story unfolds further in Vandal.
If you have not started Redwood Rebels, do it. It is a series of interconnected standalones and you must read Striker first.
If you have not started Redwood Rebels, do it. It is a series of interconnected standalones and you must read Striker first.
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