shamelessnameless 's review for:

Ruthless Rival by L.J. Shen

4.0

medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

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The author references Atonement quite a few times in the book - and it's got quite a few similarities.  Nicky/Christian was a well developed character with a strong backstory.  There were a few times he turned on the charm, but for the most part he was kind of a jerk.  Arya's character was put through the paces with every man in her life lying to her.... you know, 'for her own good.' Arya's dad is a f*ckwad who completely screwed up the life of every woman he ever met.  He's a well written narcissist. 

This book had one of my least favorite tropes. Apparently 14 year old Arya and 30 year old Arya both smell like peaches.  Do people in romance novels never change their shampoos or perfumes?  

I enjoyed this book, but I'm more interested in the interrelated novels about Christian's best friend.