What do you think?
Rate this book
Cruel Castaways #1
Ruthless Rival
From Wall Street Journal bestselling author L.J. Shen comes an enemies-to-lovers romance about the fine line between seeking revenge and finding love.
When she was young, Arya Roth became best friends with her housekeeper’s son. Soon, friendship turned to young love, and when Arya dared him to kiss her, a chain reaction of disastrous events led to the boy being sent away and out of Arya’s life.
Now, two decades later, Arya is an on-the-rise publicist with her beloved father as one of her biggest clients. So when her father is sued by a former employee, Arya sets out to prove that her father is not the monster he is accused of being. The only problem is the attorney who is determined to destroy her father’s good name. Christian Miller is charming, ambitious, and devilishly good looking, and Arya has no idea he is that same boy who kissed her all those years ago.
Past and present collide as Arya falls hard for Christian. But when she finds out who he really is and about his obsession with getting revenge on her father, can she choose love over family?
When she was young, Arya Roth became best friends with her housekeeper’s son. Soon, friendship turned to young love, and when Arya dared him to kiss her, a chain reaction of disastrous events led to the boy being sent away and out of Arya’s life.
Now, two decades later, Arya is an on-the-rise publicist with her beloved father as one of her biggest clients. So when her father is sued by a former employee, Arya sets out to prove that her father is not the monster he is accused of being. The only problem is the attorney who is determined to destroy her father’s good name. Christian Miller is charming, ambitious, and devilishly good looking, and Arya has no idea he is that same boy who kissed her all those years ago.
Past and present collide as Arya falls hard for Christian. But when she finds out who he really is and about his obsession with getting revenge on her father, can she choose love over family?
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2022
5,586 people are currently reading
25.9k people want to read
About the author
L.J. Shen
71books53.4kfollowersL.J. Shen is a New York Times, USA Today, WSJ, Washington Post and #1 Amazon Kindle Store bestselling author of contemporary romance books.
She writes angsty books, unredeemable anti-heroes who are in Bill Gates's tax bracket, and sassy heroines who bring them to their knees (for more reasons than one).
Keep up with L.J. on all platforms:
Newsletter Sign up �
Բٲ�
TikTok �
Ǵǰ�
Website �
She writes angsty books, unredeemable anti-heroes who are in Bill Gates's tax bracket, and sassy heroines who bring them to their knees (for more reasons than one).
Keep up with L.J. on all platforms:
Newsletter Sign up �
Բٲ�
TikTok �
Ǵǰ�
Website �
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,308 reviews
June 3, 2022
Such a delicious, addictive, smart, slow burn romance, a fabulous example of enemies to lovers trope!
Christian Miller: vivid combination of Keanu Reeves from Devil’s Advocate and Suits� younger version of Harvey Specter raised from his ashes of his old life: a housekeeper’s young son Nicholai who is told not to touch anything at Roth Household. But he doesn’t only touch the most precious thing belonged to the family, he just sealed with a kiss! He kissed young Arya and his actions brought out unpleasant consequences which changed his life.
He changed his identity, recreating himself as a reckless, vicious, competitive lawyer who likes to see blood in the courtyard! And now he’s after the man and the girl who ruined his life to ruin their family reputations that means he has to deal with tough, smart Arya who looks more beautiful and attractive!
L. J. Shen is queen of smartest banters that I get addicted of! Christian and Arya’s long banters, explosive chemistry tempted me!
This was great second chance met enemies-friends to lovers trope!
Only thing hold me back giving five stars was extra slow burn pace! It was a little too long! But at least the characterization was good and they don’t make me scream with their obtuse manners!
I absolutely recommend it to L. J. Shen fans and admirers of great written enemies to lovers trope!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
Christian Miller: vivid combination of Keanu Reeves from Devil’s Advocate and Suits� younger version of Harvey Specter raised from his ashes of his old life: a housekeeper’s young son Nicholai who is told not to touch anything at Roth Household. But he doesn’t only touch the most precious thing belonged to the family, he just sealed with a kiss! He kissed young Arya and his actions brought out unpleasant consequences which changed his life.
He changed his identity, recreating himself as a reckless, vicious, competitive lawyer who likes to see blood in the courtyard! And now he’s after the man and the girl who ruined his life to ruin their family reputations that means he has to deal with tough, smart Arya who looks more beautiful and attractive!
L. J. Shen is queen of smartest banters that I get addicted of! Christian and Arya’s long banters, explosive chemistry tempted me!
This was great second chance met enemies-friends to lovers trope!
Only thing hold me back giving five stars was extra slow burn pace! It was a little too long! But at least the characterization was good and they don’t make me scream with their obtuse manners!
I absolutely recommend it to L. J. Shen fans and admirers of great written enemies to lovers trope!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Montlake for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
December 30, 2021
So I checked out the IG from the comment below...because i was curious. I still dont understand why there is so much animosity towards one author? Like if u dont like her... cool, don't read her work? I just dont understand why or how anyone has enough time in the day to put someone down or attack followers? Maybe I just grew out of this in 7th grade, but this feels like a waste on energy. But what do I know?
Also, no... I'm not an influencer and I'm not getting paid to say this. Just a regular 30 something year old who likes to read. And I happen to like LJ's books. I don't know her personally...so I can't speak on behalf of her as a person, but I like the characters and the worlds she has built. But I also like other authors too.
I just felt inclined to write something because In deeply confused about the drama. And yes, it's drama. Anyway I'm not even mad. I'm just confused.
Also, no... I'm not an influencer and I'm not getting paid to say this. Just a regular 30 something year old who likes to read. And I happen to like LJ's books. I don't know her personally...so I can't speak on behalf of her as a person, but I like the characters and the worlds she has built. But I also like other authors too.
I just felt inclined to write something because In deeply confused about the drama. And yes, it's drama. Anyway I'm not even mad. I'm just confused.
May 5, 2022
childhood sweethearts + a boy who grew up “on the wrong side of the tracks� + a second chance enemies to lovers = all of my favourite tropes in one book!
theres a pattern for my enjoyment when it comes to reading LJS books. i cant stand her bully romances and stay as far away from those as i can. but every once in a while, she will write a story that is sweet, sometimes angsty, and wholly swoon-worthy that just gets me. this is one of those books.
i enjoyed both the past and present day chapters, i liked the connection between the two MCs, i enjoyed the plot and how the characters fit into it. its a pretty complete package of a story.
so if you are also a fan of the tropes i mentioned in the beginning, then you will want to pick this up!
thank you, montlake, for the ARC!
� 4 stars
theres a pattern for my enjoyment when it comes to reading LJS books. i cant stand her bully romances and stay as far away from those as i can. but every once in a while, she will write a story that is sweet, sometimes angsty, and wholly swoon-worthy that just gets me. this is one of those books.
i enjoyed both the past and present day chapters, i liked the connection between the two MCs, i enjoyed the plot and how the characters fit into it. its a pretty complete package of a story.
so if you are also a fan of the tropes i mentioned in the beginning, then you will want to pick this up!
thank you, montlake, for the ARC!
� 4 stars
May 4, 2022
I could see Shen's intent for this story but alas it got derailed in the second half once she deviated from the premise (which I thought was enemies-to-lovers/second-chance) and instead got everyone tangled up in Christian's lies. Lies which I felt were completely unnecessary.
While I'm not an author I do think this plot needed angst beyond Christian's secrets. This is a man who lost his mum, friend, and home in one fell swoop and all because of this girl. Similarly, he suffered horrific abuse at the school he was shipped to after the incident, all orchestrated by.....you guessed it...Arya's father.
I don't care how it got done but nothing should have stopped him from going full scorched earth on Arya and her father.
If it were me, I would revel in it, strip them of everything, make Arya pay. Moreover, he was such a nice guy and I thought he deserved someone more caring than whatshername.
Separately but equally frustrating was the reconciliation of Arya and her mother who, after neglecting her daughter for decades, does a volte-face and spins a completely unbelievable story talking about being scared of losing her daughter, therefore, she felt the best course was to completely ignore said daughter. That doesn't make sense. I have nothing against forgiveness but this thread seemed totally incongruous with what we knew to be true from the first half of the story.
Do you know what I think? It feels as if two different people wrote this book and neither one of them checked in with the other to ensure conformity and continuity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2022
this whole book was a dumpster fire.
◇Lying about real identity. Check �
◇Lying almost till the last chapter. Check �
◇H that doesn't know what he wants. Check �
◇All the things i hate in a book. Check �
Aria Roth and Christian Miller(real identity Nicholai Ivanov) have history together.
She was the rich girl he wasn't supposed to touch and he was the poor housekeeper's son. They were secretly friends when they were kids until one day her father caught them kissing and shipped young Nicky in boarding school and then told Aria he died. Nicky thought Aria is the one to blame and started hating her.
Then fast forward 12+ years later when Aria's father is convicted of sexual harassments Christian takes the case and vows to destroy their lives.
Things that Christian actually does :
◇Saying how he hates Aria and wants to destroy her father but then gives her information that can help him? Check �
◇Proposing her friends with benefits situation while the trial is still on? Check �
◇Starting a secret fuck buddy relationship with her. Check. �
for a guy who said how much he hated her and her father he acted like a hormonal teenager.
Anyways, Christian hypocrisy aside how Aria didn't recognize him i couldn't figure out for the life of me😂 he had "unique colored eyes" and so many slip ups and she was like :
[image error]
however the thing that bugged me the most:
Pursuing the daughter of the man he's convicting when the trial just began?? Yep that's peak professionalism right there.
I hate when the relationship starts by omission. Christian had such a wishy washy attitude, he couldn't decide if he hates Aria or wants to fuck her all the time. He persistently lied to her even when he found out she didn't do anything wrong and actually thought he is dead.
And did he tell her the truth when she opened up to him? Spoiler alert: he didn't, he continued lying her so she found out the truth on her own. 😤
the most satisfying part in the whole book:
I hated this whole storyline tbh, i started getting bored bc nothing was happening except the same things repeating all over again.
this is also on the slowburn side and the sex scenes were pretty disappointing and mediocre. also i didn't feel any tension or chemistry between adult Aria and Christian. I liked their scenes as kids so much more.
overall, nothing special.
◇Lying about real identity. Check �
◇Lying almost till the last chapter. Check �
◇H that doesn't know what he wants. Check �
◇All the things i hate in a book. Check �
Aria Roth and Christian Miller(real identity Nicholai Ivanov) have history together.
She was the rich girl he wasn't supposed to touch and he was the poor housekeeper's son. They were secretly friends when they were kids until one day her father caught them kissing and shipped young Nicky in boarding school and then told Aria he died. Nicky thought Aria is the one to blame and started hating her.
Then fast forward 12+ years later when Aria's father is convicted of sexual harassments Christian takes the case and vows to destroy their lives.
Things that Christian actually does :
◇Saying how he hates Aria and wants to destroy her father but then gives her information that can help him? Check �
◇Proposing her friends with benefits situation while the trial is still on? Check �
◇Starting a secret fuck buddy relationship with her. Check. �
for a guy who said how much he hated her and her father he acted like a hormonal teenager.
Anyways, Christian hypocrisy aside how Aria didn't recognize him i couldn't figure out for the life of me😂 he had "unique colored eyes" and so many slip ups and she was like :
[image error]
however the thing that bugged me the most:
Pursuing the daughter of the man he's convicting when the trial just began?? Yep that's peak professionalism right there.
I hate when the relationship starts by omission. Christian had such a wishy washy attitude, he couldn't decide if he hates Aria or wants to fuck her all the time. He persistently lied to her even when he found out she didn't do anything wrong and actually thought he is dead.
And did he tell her the truth when she opened up to him? Spoiler alert: he didn't, he continued lying her so she found out the truth on her own. 😤
the most satisfying part in the whole book:
"She didn’t slow down when she spotted me through her sunglasses. She stopped when our bodies were flush against one another, swung her arm backward, and slapped me so hard I was pretty sure parts of my brain were splattered on the sidewalk.
“I deserved that.�
“You deserve much more than that after the revenge plot you planned for me and my family, Nicky.�
I hated this whole storyline tbh, i started getting bored bc nothing was happening except the same things repeating all over again.
this is also on the slowburn side and the sex scenes were pretty disappointing and mediocre. also i didn't feel any tension or chemistry between adult Aria and Christian. I liked their scenes as kids so much more.
overall, nothing special.
May 5, 2022
📚 RUTHLESS RIVAL 📚 Is the first full length romance book in L.J. Shen's (Cruel Castaway's) series. Spoken in 'Dual Perspectives.' Get ready to meet Arya Roth & Christian Miller which flits from past to present smoothly.
Predictably good, I knew going into this that I’d enjoy it and that was proven time and time again when I couldn’t put it down. The synopsis and the author combined ticked my boxes accordingly, ensnared in her trap as I fell head first for our hero, and the heroine that never forgot him.
All the feels which this slow burn evoked, this was executed so well, instilling yet again why I love this author as much as I do.
This had so many layers to it, childhood friends, they bonded over their love of books, meeting in a cemetery and exploring their summers together whilst his mother cleaned her parents mansion, with a clear message not to put his dirty hands on anything in the Roth's family's penthouse, which especially included the girl, Arya. These two were worlds apart in social standing, she was rich, he was poor, until he was banished away like trash.
Nothing was ever the same again...
Until he rose up like a phoenix and reinvented himself with vengeance in his blood to take down the family which wronged him.
* Teaser used is off the authors facebook page *
December 21, 2021
i have no interest in an author who has no confidence in her writing and instead plagiarizes and uses her large PR team to get good ratings. check @sassysparrowx3 on ig to learn more.
April 2, 2023
I could smell what was going to happen as if it were sitting right in an alley dumpster in NYC.
Featuring ~ dual 1st person POV, dual timeline, friends to enemies to lovers, lawyer, slow burn, second chance
Arya Roth and Nicholai Ivanov were summertime friends, harboring, unknown to each other, crushes, when they were teenagers. Since Nicholai's mother is the housekeeper for the Roth's, Arya is deemed off limits. As you can imagine, it does not go very well when Conrad Roth walks in on their first kiss.
Arya is a successful PR firm owner. She never thought she'd have to help her own father when he's accused of sexual harassment in his workplace. She just can't believe the man that raised her, mostly by himself, could be guilty of such a thing.
Side note ~ surely this lady that gets $500 haircuts has heard of a Brazilian blowout? Girl, tame that unruly hair.
From a poor boy named Nicky to a millionaire hot shot lawyer named Christian. When Amanda Gispen walks into Christian's office and tells her story of harassment by his nemesis, Conrad, he can hardly believe that he'll finally be able to get his revenge by taking him down.
Of course there's an attraction when these 2 see each other again after 20 years, but the problem is that Arya has no clue it's her teenage crush because she thinks he's dead. And Christian takes way too long to tell her the truth because he thinks she's to blame, too, for him being sent away all those years ago.
The story goes back and forth between Arya and Nicky/Christian's perspectives and in both the past and present, which I loved.
Most of the characters are quite unlikable for most of the book. I did warm up to some of them towards the end though.
I LOVED the epilogue!
Overall, this was a great friends to enemies to lovers, second chance, slow burn romance full of family secrets, cockiness and revenge.
This is my 2nd book by LJ and I will for sure be looking for the rest of this series.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Montlake and for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here � ~
Featuring ~ dual 1st person POV, dual timeline, friends to enemies to lovers, lawyer, slow burn, second chance
Arya Roth and Nicholai Ivanov were summertime friends, harboring, unknown to each other, crushes, when they were teenagers. Since Nicholai's mother is the housekeeper for the Roth's, Arya is deemed off limits. As you can imagine, it does not go very well when Conrad Roth walks in on their first kiss.
Arya is a successful PR firm owner. She never thought she'd have to help her own father when he's accused of sexual harassment in his workplace. She just can't believe the man that raised her, mostly by himself, could be guilty of such a thing.
Side note ~ surely this lady that gets $500 haircuts has heard of a Brazilian blowout? Girl, tame that unruly hair.
From a poor boy named Nicky to a millionaire hot shot lawyer named Christian. When Amanda Gispen walks into Christian's office and tells her story of harassment by his nemesis, Conrad, he can hardly believe that he'll finally be able to get his revenge by taking him down.
Of course there's an attraction when these 2 see each other again after 20 years, but the problem is that Arya has no clue it's her teenage crush because she thinks he's dead. And Christian takes way too long to tell her the truth because he thinks she's to blame, too, for him being sent away all those years ago.
The story goes back and forth between Arya and Nicky/Christian's perspectives and in both the past and present, which I loved.
Most of the characters are quite unlikable for most of the book. I did warm up to some of them towards the end though.
I LOVED the epilogue!
Overall, this was a great friends to enemies to lovers, second chance, slow burn romance full of family secrets, cockiness and revenge.
This is my 2nd book by LJ and I will for sure be looking for the rest of this series.
*Thanks to Netgalley, Montlake and for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here � ~
May 14, 2022
This was definitely a good read, and I haven't read anything bad from this author so far so maybe I expected her to deliver which she always does.
The story itself is told over many years from teenager's to adults both in there thirties when they cross pathes again in a life altering way things get very complicated, and messy with family and careeres on the line.
Happy Reading 📚📓📘📗📖📙📒📚📓📕📕📔📚📗📘📓📙📖📒📓📚📙📖😇
The story itself is told over many years from teenager's to adults both in there thirties when they cross pathes again in a life altering way things get very complicated, and messy with family and careeres on the line.
Happy Reading 📚📓📘📗📖📙📒📚📓📕📕📔📚📗📘📓📙📖📒📓📚📙📖😇
April 13, 2022
Ahhh!!! I am obsessed with every new book that L.J. Shen releases but Ruthless Rivalhonestly is one of the best books I've ever read!! Arya and Christian have completely taken over my heart. This story was filled to the brim with swoony tension, angst and slow burn goodness. I am completely obsessed with this story and can not love it any more!!! Arya and Christian are nothing short of FIVE STAR GOLD!!!
Overall, Shen completely outdid herself with this story! The secrets and palpable tension between Arya and Christian left me on the edge of my seat. I sat spellbound and was addicted to every word! In addition, the chemistry and fiery banter were just the icing on this already delicious cake. Ruthless Rival was nothing short of brilliant and UNPUTDOWNABLE!!!
With this story, Shen is once again officially putting the world on notice that she is capable of writing ANY genre and trope with her customary Midas touch!!! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula ❤️
Overall, Shen completely outdid herself with this story! The secrets and palpable tension between Arya and Christian left me on the edge of my seat. I sat spellbound and was addicted to every word! In addition, the chemistry and fiery banter were just the icing on this already delicious cake. Ruthless Rival was nothing short of brilliant and UNPUTDOWNABLE!!!
With this story, Shen is once again officially putting the world on notice that she is capable of writing ANY genre and trope with her customary Midas touch!!! Bravo! 5 stars! ~Ratula ❤️
December 15, 2024
I’ve read enough of Shen’s books to catch when she’s pulling from her own earlier work, and this one gave me tiny glimpses of Vicious here and there.
now that's not the way to convince someone because uh, Vicious is... controversial, to put it mildly. 😂 but no hate to Vicious Spencer ever.
that said, i regret putting this one off for so long because it was honestly such a fun ride. The characters were strong, distinct, and actually had personalities. it got a little ridiculous at times, but in a way that worked because it was all tied together with a surprisingly nice plot.
� Arya Roth (h) and Christian Miller (H) a.k.a. Nicholai, met when they were twelve. Christian was her maid’s son, and they spent summers together until they were fourteen. that’s when they shared their first kiss, got caught, and he was sent away by her father. Arya was led to believe for years that he’d died.
the revenge was served to Christian on a platter as a sexual harassment case against Arya’s father, and how he made him sweat? Chef’s kiss. there's something really hot about lawyers...another vicious praise
the flashback chapters of Arya and Christian’s childhood summers—reading, playing, swimming contests. It was just so wholesome, so content in its own way. i loved those chapters and their on n off fights.
i didn’t expect to feel as bad for Christian as I did. his backstory was brutal. neglected by his own mother, shunned and looked down upon because of Arya’s father, waiting hours for a mom who never showed up, dealing with hunger and poverty—it was rough.
Shen does this thing where she writes these irredeemable assholes but gives them just enough of a tragic edge that I can’t hate them. like 😭
Arya was such a standout. Headstrong, independent, sarcastic, and brimming with confidence. she didn’t care what anyone thought, and I loved that about her. she wouldnt let anyone walk all over her and glad that she actually had braincells to just know when someone's bullshitting.
the whole “not recognizing his face� bit was a little ridiculous! like, how much can a fourteen-year-old change in 18 years? But considering Arya thought he was dead, it kind of tracks why she wouldn’t even entertain the idea that Christian was Nicholai.
Christian’s obsession with Arya was next-level. Like, lovesick-puppy obsessed. He kept telling himself he hated her, but nah, he was desperate for her, and it was so satisfying to read. and ffs i didn’t expect groveling in this book, but it delivered. Maybe not a lot of it, and yeah, it had Vicious vibes, but I devoured it. 🥹
him resigning from his firm after just making partner? Waiting outside her building for hours? damn sometimes i love a lil bare minimum..
Some might not call it peak groveling, but the reasons behind it were so on point. And the ending, with Arya’s mother reconciling with her? a perfect bow on the whole story.
Honestly, Shen does it again—assholes with justifiable trauma, strong heroines, and a touch of jealousy, push and pull and banter. I’m glad I finally picked this one up.
now that's not the way to convince someone because uh, Vicious is... controversial, to put it mildly. 😂 but no hate to Vicious Spencer ever.
that said, i regret putting this one off for so long because it was honestly such a fun ride. The characters were strong, distinct, and actually had personalities. it got a little ridiculous at times, but in a way that worked because it was all tied together with a surprisingly nice plot.
� Arya Roth (h) and Christian Miller (H) a.k.a. Nicholai, met when they were twelve. Christian was her maid’s son, and they spent summers together until they were fourteen. that’s when they shared their first kiss, got caught, and he was sent away by her father. Arya was led to believe for years that he’d died.
the revenge was served to Christian on a platter as a sexual harassment case against Arya’s father, and how he made him sweat? Chef’s kiss. there's something really hot about lawyers...
the flashback chapters of Arya and Christian’s childhood summers—reading, playing, swimming contests. It was just so wholesome, so content in its own way. i loved those chapters and their on n off fights.
i didn’t expect to feel as bad for Christian as I did. his backstory was brutal. neglected by his own mother, shunned and looked down upon because of Arya’s father, waiting hours for a mom who never showed up, dealing with hunger and poverty—it was rough.
Shen does this thing where she writes these irredeemable assholes but gives them just enough of a tragic edge that I can’t hate them. like 😭
Arya was such a standout. Headstrong, independent, sarcastic, and brimming with confidence. she didn’t care what anyone thought, and I loved that about her. she wouldnt let anyone walk all over her and glad that she actually had braincells to just know when someone's bullshitting.
the whole “not recognizing his face� bit was a little ridiculous! like, how much can a fourteen-year-old change in 18 years? But considering Arya thought he was dead, it kind of tracks why she wouldn’t even entertain the idea that Christian was Nicholai.
Christian’s obsession with Arya was next-level. Like, lovesick-puppy obsessed. He kept telling himself he hated her, but nah, he was desperate for her, and it was so satisfying to read. and ffs i didn’t expect groveling in this book, but it delivered. Maybe not a lot of it, and yeah, it had Vicious vibes, but I devoured it. 🥹
him resigning from his firm after just making partner? Waiting outside her building for hours? damn sometimes i love a lil bare minimum..
Some might not call it peak groveling, but the reasons behind it were so on point. And the ending, with Arya’s mother reconciling with her? a perfect bow on the whole story.
Honestly, Shen does it again—assholes with justifiable trauma, strong heroines, and a touch of jealousy, push and pull and banter. I’m glad I finally picked this one up.
December 18, 2024
3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rounded up
Full Rtc when I can think and breathe. I'm sick, so when I get better, I'm going to catch up on my reviews
"Hope was a drug, I realized. And Arya had just given me my first, free-sample hit."
Full Rtc when I can think and breathe. I'm sick, so when I get better, I'm going to catch up on my reviews
"Hope was a drug, I realized. And Arya had just given me my first, free-sample hit."
May 3, 2022
I can tell you without a shadow of a doubt that this will be one of my top favorite reads of 2022 AND it is LJ Shen at her BEST! The writing, the banter, the chemistry and layered storyline all combine to create a bold and brilliant second chance/enemies to lovers romance.
This hero and heroine's story is all-consuming; without giving much away you will become entangled in their families' pasts, and completely drawn into the layered lives of each of them. The hero will surprise you at every turn with his wit, loyalty, and determination; while this brilliant and brazen heroine will stand up to anyone in her way of her own happiness. Together these two are a storm...running around and around each other until they combust and settle.
This slow burn is perfection, the humor and angst are spot on, and the passion and romance is epic. The theme of forgiveness of oneself and others woven throughout is the cherry on top! Well done once again LJ Shen!!! Bravo!
This hero and heroine's story is all-consuming; without giving much away you will become entangled in their families' pasts, and completely drawn into the layered lives of each of them. The hero will surprise you at every turn with his wit, loyalty, and determination; while this brilliant and brazen heroine will stand up to anyone in her way of her own happiness. Together these two are a storm...running around and around each other until they combust and settle.
This slow burn is perfection, the humor and angst are spot on, and the passion and romance is epic. The theme of forgiveness of oneself and others woven throughout is the cherry on top! Well done once again LJ Shen!!! Bravo!
August 24, 2021
I have a feeling that this is going to be epic...
Just an intuition.
And of course, since it is LJ Shen, I cannot be wrong. Desperately waiting for this!!!
Just an intuition.
And of course, since it is LJ Shen, I cannot be wrong. Desperately waiting for this!!!
April 26, 2022
Ahh, I loved loved LOVED this book. It's so addictive. I hated putting it down to work... silly work. It's one of those romances where you're drumming your fingers, watching the clock, can't wait to get back to it to see what's coming next!
Arya and Nicky/Christian's enemies-to-lovers romance is perfection, unfolded in a thrilling, slowly building way, where you're dying/can't wait to see what's going to happen next. It's so well-written, and I lost so much sleep over this one (lol!) I truly loved it--sexy and smart, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. FIVE STARS: One of the BEST of 2022. Don't miss out!
Arya and Nicky/Christian's enemies-to-lovers romance is perfection, unfolded in a thrilling, slowly building way, where you're dying/can't wait to see what's going to happen next. It's so well-written, and I lost so much sleep over this one (lol!) I truly loved it--sexy and smart, and keeps you on the edge of your seat. FIVE STARS: One of the BEST of 2022. Don't miss out!
September 25, 2023
2/5 ⭐️ I really wanted to love this but the plot took so long to pick up and I got bored. This was marketed as an enemies to lovers romance but I didn’t really feel like it delivered on that. I wanted more tension and it was missing the angst that I’ve come to expect from this author.
It was just so bland and I didn’t really care about the main characters. Both Arya and Christian were boring af 😑.
I did like the chapters of them in the past when they were kids. They were really cute. I loved that they were each other’s first kiss. But other than that, I didn’t enjoy this.
And Christian also took way too long to reveal his real identity to Arya 😒.
It was just so bland and I didn’t really care about the main characters. Both Arya and Christian were boring af 😑.
I did like the chapters of them in the past when they were kids. They were really cute. I loved that they were each other’s first kiss. But other than that, I didn’t enjoy this.
And Christian also took way too long to reveal his real identity to Arya 😒.
January 5, 2023
L.J. Shen hat es mal wieder geschafft: mir fehlen die Worte � 🫠
Es hätte besser nicht sein können! Und das Ende? So perfekt, wie es nur geht. ❤️
Ich will ganz schnell Band zwei und drei!!!
Off topic: Komisch finde ich nur, dass ŷ nicht die Seitenzahl des Buches anzeigt?
Es hätte besser nicht sein können! Und das Ende? So perfekt, wie es nur geht. ❤️
Ich will ganz schnell Band zwei und drei!!!
Off topic: Komisch finde ich nur, dass ŷ nicht die Seitenzahl des Buches anzeigt?
April 19, 2022
This book justifies it's title perfectly. The plot is twisted, the characters ruthless and shen spares no mercy in making them run the gauntlet of hardships and separation, raising the angst level sky high.
A maelstrom of swirling emotions, sucking the readers into its powerful vortex. It's a story that churns at warp speed, sweeping and lifting you right in the midst of all the drama, commotion happening. It's Raw, it's Real and it stole my heart. A piece is left behind in its pages somewhere, and I'm already missing Nicky & Arya terribly.
I. Could. Not. Put.the. Book. Down!!!
Fascinating, compelling prose with endearing, magnetic characters. The blistering, steamy love stemming from trauma and tabboo, Sweet and tragic at the same time, it evokes poignance and distress early on.
Nicky & Arya's love never stood a chance. Conrad's dark shadow doomed their fate from the get go. As the story progressed, so did my morbid interest. I was now fully invested and wanted my pay off in form of HEA for them.
"we were frighteningly alike. Fighters. Bloodthirsty.
Claws out, at a seconds notice"
There were twists, deeply broken love and devastating ripples that pulled upon the cords of my heart. I cried for them a lot.
There's a particular scene where I got to peek behind the gruff obnoxious armor of Nicky
“I need people,� I heard myself say. “I can’t get through this alone.�
I mean sobs literally racked my body people!!!
Such is the power of the mighty pen shen yields. The narration was slick paced, very action oriented. Not a line wasted, no sentiment missing, no sequence unwanted. Very tight & taut storyline which is why I think my beloved Vicious Barron Clit-throbber Spencer is dethroned.
“Just remember, to become king, you must dethrone someone first.�
Nicolai Ivanov has arrived and HOW!!
Arya was instantly likeable. A lonely, lost princess with nothing to her name. Not even her choices, her happiness. Her pristine personality appealed to me immediately.
Her heart docks in the same cemetery where Nicky hides.
"My soul ... it feels calm when it’s next to yours.�
It's fate and Karma that two mirror image souls find a piece of heaven in the uncaring, ruthless city. His journey unfolds in layers. Betrayal, trauma, injustice shape his personality and his being lives for vengeance
The beauty of their coupling was a delight to watch for the briefest moment it was allowed to flourish. I loved their sneaky romance. As equally as the ferocious enmity they manifested
A bow to the queen who creates men I lust
5 stars for Thieves Of Pleasure
Follow me on:
🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻
A maelstrom of swirling emotions, sucking the readers into its powerful vortex. It's a story that churns at warp speed, sweeping and lifting you right in the midst of all the drama, commotion happening. It's Raw, it's Real and it stole my heart. A piece is left behind in its pages somewhere, and I'm already missing Nicky & Arya terribly.
I. Could. Not. Put.the. Book. Down!!!
Fascinating, compelling prose with endearing, magnetic characters. The blistering, steamy love stemming from trauma and tabboo, Sweet and tragic at the same time, it evokes poignance and distress early on.
Nicky & Arya's love never stood a chance. Conrad's dark shadow doomed their fate from the get go. As the story progressed, so did my morbid interest. I was now fully invested and wanted my pay off in form of HEA for them.
"we were frighteningly alike. Fighters. Bloodthirsty.
Claws out, at a seconds notice"
There were twists, deeply broken love and devastating ripples that pulled upon the cords of my heart. I cried for them a lot.
There's a particular scene where I got to peek behind the gruff obnoxious armor of Nicky
“I need people,� I heard myself say. “I can’t get through this alone.�
I mean sobs literally racked my body people!!!
Such is the power of the mighty pen shen yields. The narration was slick paced, very action oriented. Not a line wasted, no sentiment missing, no sequence unwanted. Very tight & taut storyline which is why I think my beloved Vicious Barron Clit-throbber Spencer is dethroned.
“Just remember, to become king, you must dethrone someone first.�
Nicolai Ivanov has arrived and HOW!!
Arya was instantly likeable. A lonely, lost princess with nothing to her name. Not even her choices, her happiness. Her pristine personality appealed to me immediately.
Her heart docks in the same cemetery where Nicky hides.
"My soul ... it feels calm when it’s next to yours.�
It's fate and Karma that two mirror image souls find a piece of heaven in the uncaring, ruthless city. His journey unfolds in layers. Betrayal, trauma, injustice shape his personality and his being lives for vengeance
The beauty of their coupling was a delight to watch for the briefest moment it was allowed to flourish. I loved their sneaky romance. As equally as the ferocious enmity they manifested
A bow to the queen who creates men I lust
5 stars for Thieves Of Pleasure
Follow me on:
🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻 🌻
May 23, 2022
3,5. It’s a cute story to pass your time!
August 25, 2023
This was a miss for me. Where were those 'enemies to lovers' fights? That passionate heat? More of a second-chance romance book.
The writing's nice but they just shouldn't sell this as an enemies-to-lovers novel. Except for their first meeting, I didn't sense that there was any hatred between them.
The writing's nice but they just shouldn't sell this as an enemies-to-lovers novel. Except for their first meeting, I didn't sense that there was any hatred between them.
May 4, 2022
There’s just no originality anymore. I’m just rereading the same story with different names.
April 23, 2022
English /Spanish version
If you loved Sinners of Saint you will die for Ruthless Rival!
This book is a beautiful love story that reached the depths of my being! I’m moved beyond words. My feelings are all over the place. These new characters left me with the book hangover of the century! The storyline is impressive, the intricacies of the plot had me gasping for air, it is the perfect combination of emotion, suspense and slow born romance all wrapped up in a good dose of sexy scenes.
The characters are different, complex and interesting. I love Christian, he is so sexy, so focused, with a riveting personality, and love Arya, her fierce determination to help those she loves is everything. I love the suspense, and the electrifying chemistry between them, wow, but I didn't expect it any other way. LJ IS THE QUEEN OF THE BANTER They are so perfect for each other!!
This book is passionate, intense, intriguing and emotional, and above all is about love and friendship. Thanks to the author for giving us such emotional stories that inspire and allow us to dream and at the same time remind us to embrace our loved ones and that love is the force that always sustains us and leads us to be the best version of ourselves.
Version en español
¡Si amaste Sinners of Saint, morirás por Ruthless Rival!
¡Este libro es una hermosa historia de amor que llegó hasta lo más profundo de mi ser! Me siento conmovida más allá de las palabras, mis sentimientos están por todo el lugar. ¡Estos nuevos personajes me dejaron con la resaca literaria del siglo! La historia es impresionante, las complejidades de la trama me dejaron sin aliento, es la combinación perfecta de emoción, suspenso y romance, todo envuelto en una buena dosis de escenas sexys.
Los personajes son diferentes, complejos e interesantes. Amo a Christian, él es tan sexy, tan centrado, con una personalidad fascinante, y amo a Arya, su feroz determinación de ayudar a quienes ama es todo. Me encanta el suspenso y la química electrizante entre ellos ¡¡Son tan perfectos el uno para el otro!!
Este libro es apasionado, apasionante, intrigante y emotivo, y sobre todo trata sobre el amor y la amistad. Gracias al autor por brindarnos historias tan emotivas que nos inspiran y nos permiten soñar y al mismo tiempo nos recuerdan abrazar a nuestros seres queridos y que el amor es la fuerza que siempre nos sostiene y nos lleva a ser la mejor versión de nosotros mismos.
If you loved Sinners of Saint you will die for Ruthless Rival!
This book is a beautiful love story that reached the depths of my being! I’m moved beyond words. My feelings are all over the place. These new characters left me with the book hangover of the century! The storyline is impressive, the intricacies of the plot had me gasping for air, it is the perfect combination of emotion, suspense and slow born romance all wrapped up in a good dose of sexy scenes.
The characters are different, complex and interesting. I love Christian, he is so sexy, so focused, with a riveting personality, and love Arya, her fierce determination to help those she loves is everything. I love the suspense, and the electrifying chemistry between them, wow, but I didn't expect it any other way. LJ IS THE QUEEN OF THE BANTER They are so perfect for each other!!
This book is passionate, intense, intriguing and emotional, and above all is about love and friendship. Thanks to the author for giving us such emotional stories that inspire and allow us to dream and at the same time remind us to embrace our loved ones and that love is the force that always sustains us and leads us to be the best version of ourselves.
Version en español
¡Si amaste Sinners of Saint, morirás por Ruthless Rival!
¡Este libro es una hermosa historia de amor que llegó hasta lo más profundo de mi ser! Me siento conmovida más allá de las palabras, mis sentimientos están por todo el lugar. ¡Estos nuevos personajes me dejaron con la resaca literaria del siglo! La historia es impresionante, las complejidades de la trama me dejaron sin aliento, es la combinación perfecta de emoción, suspenso y romance, todo envuelto en una buena dosis de escenas sexys.
Los personajes son diferentes, complejos e interesantes. Amo a Christian, él es tan sexy, tan centrado, con una personalidad fascinante, y amo a Arya, su feroz determinación de ayudar a quienes ama es todo. Me encanta el suspenso y la química electrizante entre ellos ¡¡Son tan perfectos el uno para el otro!!
Este libro es apasionado, apasionante, intrigante y emotivo, y sobre todo trata sobre el amor y la amistad. Gracias al autor por brindarnos historias tan emotivas que nos inspiran y nos permiten soñar y al mismo tiempo nos recuerdan abrazar a nuestros seres queridos y que el amor es la fuerza que siempre nos sostiene y nos lleva a ser la mejor versión de nosotros mismos.
May 25, 2022
I have a hate-and-love relationship with L.J. Shen. Some of her books, I love. While others... Not so much. One thing I have started to figure out, the tropes are getting old.
Parents coming in between their relationship and causing troubles with lots of secrets? Check.
Miscommunication thereto and MC coming back for revenge?? Check.
Technically speaking there was literally nothing new about the story I read. I carried ahead just because I wanted to see what happens and what I predict, do happen or not.
Arya had broken family. Her mother cannot care more for her. Her father played the role of both - a mother and a father. He was very much protective of her along with being short-tempered. Then comes Nicky. They met in a cemetery when they were children, and from there their develop to meeting during summer vacations. When 14, Arya dared Nicky to kiss her. Only, it didn't end the way she expected and led to a chain reaction of events, the burden of which she will be bear in coming years. Years later, her father is sued. And the opposition's lawyer is Christina Miller. She can't help but feel a connection to him. She thinks she knows him, have met him before. But Christian have secrets of him own and is out for revenge against her father. However, they both can't stop feeling attracted to each other. What happens when Arya discovers the secrets?
I don't really want to talk about the characters. Or the secondary characters.
There is nothing to talk about the plot.
Yes, the execution was good. I kept reading it to the end.
“It changes one fundamental thing, Arya.�
“And that is?�
“Now I can chase you however much I like. Because your dad’s case means jack shit to me, and you know damn well I don’t give that much of a crap about getting disbarred, seeing as I just quit. It’s on, Ari. I will win you.�
“I’m not a prize.�
I turned around and walked away. “No, you’re not. You’re everything.�
Yes, I wanted him to grovel more.
Also on the other hand, I felt the end could have been more The way they came together didn't really sat well with me. It took out all the joy of their happy ending.
Parents coming in between their relationship and causing troubles with lots of secrets? Check.
Miscommunication thereto and MC coming back for revenge?? Check.
Technically speaking there was literally nothing new about the story I read. I carried ahead just because I wanted to see what happens and what I predict, do happen or not.
Arya had broken family. Her mother cannot care more for her. Her father played the role of both - a mother and a father. He was very much protective of her along with being short-tempered. Then comes Nicky. They met in a cemetery when they were children, and from there their develop to meeting during summer vacations. When 14, Arya dared Nicky to kiss her. Only, it didn't end the way she expected and led to a chain reaction of events, the burden of which she will be bear in coming years. Years later, her father is sued. And the opposition's lawyer is Christina Miller. She can't help but feel a connection to him. She thinks she knows him, have met him before. But Christian have secrets of him own and is out for revenge against her father. However, they both can't stop feeling attracted to each other. What happens when Arya discovers the secrets?
I don't really want to talk about the characters. Or the secondary characters.
There is nothing to talk about the plot.
Yes, the execution was good. I kept reading it to the end.
“It changes one fundamental thing, Arya.�
“And that is?�
“Now I can chase you however much I like. Because your dad’s case means jack shit to me, and you know damn well I don’t give that much of a crap about getting disbarred, seeing as I just quit. It’s on, Ari. I will win you.�
“I’m not a prize.�
I turned around and walked away. “No, you’re not. You’re everything.�
Yes, I wanted him to grovel more.
Also on the other hand, I felt the end could have been more The way they came together didn't really sat well with me. It took out all the joy of their happy ending.
June 17, 2022
my first LJ Shen book and a very quick dnf. 31%
this was as basic as basic gets. Christian (nikolai) is your basic mmc that “no one understands� and “doesn’t need anyone�. although i did kinda like his asshole lawyer vibe (literally the only reason this gets 1 star), he just didn’t stand out for me.
arya is your classic comes from money, kinda ditsy, annoying fmc. i didn’t like her AT ALL. i really don’t understand the appeal of a fmc who is clueless and whiny. also how can you not recognize someone you used to be VERY close with just because of a name change???? makes no sense to me.
i was cringing or rolling my eyes every other page. this was very obviously not for me.
this was as basic as basic gets. Christian (nikolai) is your basic mmc that “no one understands� and “doesn’t need anyone�. although i did kinda like his asshole lawyer vibe (literally the only reason this gets 1 star), he just didn’t stand out for me.
arya is your classic comes from money, kinda ditsy, annoying fmc. i didn’t like her AT ALL. i really don’t understand the appeal of a fmc who is clueless and whiny. also how can you not recognize someone you used to be VERY close with just because of a name change???? makes no sense to me.
i was cringing or rolling my eyes every other page. this was very obviously not for me.
October 15, 2023
Debo decir que pocas veces, por no decir ninguna, Shen me decepciona, y esta no ha sido una de ellas.
Qué historia, madre mía. Me chifla cómo en los últimos capítulos hila detalles que habías olvidado, cómo consigue cerrar el círculo.
Personajes maravillosos y, como siempre, una buena trama detrás.
Qué historia, madre mía. Me chifla cómo en los últimos capítulos hila detalles que habías olvidado, cómo consigue cerrar el círculo.
Personajes maravillosos y, como siempre, una buena trama detrás.
April 28, 2022
Woah! I think I just found my new fave LJ characters, Arya and Christian are…wow!
It’s always a great moment when I pick up a new LJ Shen book, the excitement of not knowing what’s going to come and what emotions will follow it is exhilarating and honestly, Ruthless Rival gave it all. The aching heart, the laughing out loud, just all the feels.
Arya is incredibly fierce and independent. She goes above and beyond for those she loves and even though she came from money she knew she wanted to be independent and fend for herself so she did. I absolutely adored that about her, she wanted something so she made it happen.
Christian my heart hurt for this guy. He was wronged by many and that in turn made him the man he is today. He’s an absolute shark in the courtroom and a man of steel outside. He knows what he wants and he’s clear about it. He’s sharp, demanding and incredibly handsome.
Now I loved Christian, I truly loved everything about him but there’s a moment or two in this book when he irritated me over certain things but even though he did, he earned the love back. This guy was incredible considering the things he had to go through. I had a lot of admiration for that guy.
And I just have to say I can not wait to get Riggs and Arsène’s stories. I just know they’re going to blow me away as much as Christian’s did.
Ruthless Rival was packed with all the fun bits. It’s an exciting enemies to lovers slow burn romance, filled with angst and accompanied with some major swoon worthy moments and I could not have loved it anymore than I did.
I have to say LJ Shen truly outdid herself with this book and the characters. Her writing is impeccable and had me captivated from the get go. I am in awe of LJ and her incredible knack at writing stories that keep me hooked.
It’s always a great moment when I pick up a new LJ Shen book, the excitement of not knowing what’s going to come and what emotions will follow it is exhilarating and honestly, Ruthless Rival gave it all. The aching heart, the laughing out loud, just all the feels.
Arya is incredibly fierce and independent. She goes above and beyond for those she loves and even though she came from money she knew she wanted to be independent and fend for herself so she did. I absolutely adored that about her, she wanted something so she made it happen.
Christian my heart hurt for this guy. He was wronged by many and that in turn made him the man he is today. He’s an absolute shark in the courtroom and a man of steel outside. He knows what he wants and he’s clear about it. He’s sharp, demanding and incredibly handsome.
Now I loved Christian, I truly loved everything about him but there’s a moment or two in this book when he irritated me over certain things but even though he did, he earned the love back. This guy was incredible considering the things he had to go through. I had a lot of admiration for that guy.
And I just have to say I can not wait to get Riggs and Arsène’s stories. I just know they’re going to blow me away as much as Christian’s did.
Ruthless Rival was packed with all the fun bits. It’s an exciting enemies to lovers slow burn romance, filled with angst and accompanied with some major swoon worthy moments and I could not have loved it anymore than I did.
I have to say LJ Shen truly outdid herself with this book and the characters. Her writing is impeccable and had me captivated from the get go. I am in awe of LJ and her incredible knack at writing stories that keep me hooked.
June 15, 2023
Zengin kız ve fakir oğlan. Nikholai daha küçük yaşta annesinin hizmetçilik yaptığı evin sahibi olan Conrad Roth'un kızıyla arkadaşlık eder. Ama adam kesinlikle ikisinin arkadaş olmalarına karşıdır. 14 yaşlarına geldiklerinde Arya Nikholai'den onu öpmesini ister. Tam bu sırada babasına yakalanırlar. Adam ilk önce Nikholai'yi döver ve evden yatılı bir okula gönderir. Ordada çocuğa eziyet çektirmeye devam eder. Arya hiç hirşeyden habersizdir. Aradan yıllar geçer. Nikholai adını değiştirmiştir, Christian Miller adında çok ünlü bir avukattır. Ve önüne gelen fırsatla Arya ve babasından intikam almaya başlar.
June 2, 2022
3.25 ⭐️
This book had the potencial to be a lot better. I was a tab bit bored while reading it. The idea of Nicky was very interesting in the beginning, but got lost along the way. And I honestly couldn’t understand how Ari didn't recognize Nicky.
This book had the potencial to be a lot better. I was a tab bit bored while reading it. The idea of Nicky was very interesting in the beginning, but got lost along the way. And I honestly couldn’t understand how Ari didn't recognize Nicky.
April 9, 2025
Toată cartea am simțit ca lipsește ceva. Nu s-a legat povestea de loc, nu am avut o tranziție frumoasa, superficiala relația lor... nup.
April 14, 2022
**Ruthless Rival generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
5 "Full of things." Stars
Another vibrant and intriguing story from L.J. Shen. I was really into the plot of this one and how well it was executed from beginning to end. The narrative toggles from past to present while switching from hero and heroine and this style worked so well for their hate-to-love story. This is a story of redemption buried in lies, mistruths, and betrayals. As more and more details slowly unveil their vulnerability shines through their masks of mystery and allure. They are smart, cunning, and needy in the best and most unexpected of ways. Shen consistently knows how to adapt her characters to new worlds and journeys while keeping them interesting. Both of these mains captivated me and the ease in which their romance completely unravels is a real testament to the story telling. There's something inherently good about these two even when they're being oh-so-bad. And the charm they both effuse, the banter and wit, and the struggle all mesh together to bring a great story. Excellent romance story. Great writing. Great characters. It took me less than a day to read it. I absolutely loved it and can't wait for more from this "Cruel Castaway" world in the future. What more could you ask for?
5 "Full of things." Stars
Another vibrant and intriguing story from L.J. Shen. I was really into the plot of this one and how well it was executed from beginning to end. The narrative toggles from past to present while switching from hero and heroine and this style worked so well for their hate-to-love story. This is a story of redemption buried in lies, mistruths, and betrayals. As more and more details slowly unveil their vulnerability shines through their masks of mystery and allure. They are smart, cunning, and needy in the best and most unexpected of ways. Shen consistently knows how to adapt her characters to new worlds and journeys while keeping them interesting. Both of these mains captivated me and the ease in which their romance completely unravels is a real testament to the story telling. There's something inherently good about these two even when they're being oh-so-bad. And the charm they both effuse, the banter and wit, and the struggle all mesh together to bring a great story. Excellent romance story. Great writing. Great characters. It took me less than a day to read it. I absolutely loved it and can't wait for more from this "Cruel Castaway" world in the future. What more could you ask for?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,308 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.