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Cruel #2
Cruel Fortune
Lose yourself to the dark and glamorous underbelly of the Upper East Side in the second book in USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde's new billionaire romance Cruel Trilogy.
I finally have everything I ever wanted--fame and fortune and literary success.
Only one problem: I lost my muse.
He was tall, dark, and handsome. Broody, enigmatic, alluring, and right for me in every way.
Until he wasn't. Until I lost everything.
And I can't lose it all again. I'll do anything to keep it.
Even seeing him again...
I finally have everything I ever wanted--fame and fortune and literary success.
Only one problem: I lost my muse.
He was tall, dark, and handsome. Broody, enigmatic, alluring, and right for me in every way.
Until he wasn't. Until I lost everything.
And I can't lose it all again. I'll do anything to keep it.
Even seeing him again...
344 pages
First published April 23, 2019
About the author
K.A. Linde
90 books9,661 followersK.A. Linde is the USA Today bestselling author of the Avoiding Series, Wrights, and more than thirty other novels. She has a Masters degree in political science from the University of Georgia, was the head campaign worker for the 2012 presidential campaign at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and served as the head coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, son, and super-adorable puppy.
Visit her online at www.kalinde.com and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @authorkalinde.
Join her newsletter at www.kalinde.com/subscribe for exclusive content, free books, and giveaways every month.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews
April 18, 2019
4 stars
KA Linde never fails to deliver books that keeps my attention from start to finish. This one pulled me in from the start and had me hooked entirely. The angst, drama, and the many OMG moments- I was addicted.
Natalie is now a best selling author. Her dreams are coming true. But she finds herself somewhere she never really wanted to be again… back in the city. New York. The Upper East side. As soon as her book release is over, she’ll be gone. That is, until she realizes that NYC is where she needs to be to write. It’s where her muse is.
I can’t even go into this plot because, well, spoilers… but I will say that this story-line could have went so many ways, and there were moments I questioned why it was going in a certain direction, but by the end… Gah! I couldn’t have been happier with the way things started to go. I have high hopes that the next book will give me all I want and need, but I’m sure it will be a bit stressful getting there.
A lot of these characters are manipulative, some are unlikable, but others are amazing. I love that there are so many different types of personalities in this book and you never know what you were getting. There is so much passion, intensity, and crazy sexy moments.
If you’re looking for a book that’s completely addictive and one that will keep you on the edge of your seat, pick up the Cruel series. I am loving these books and July can’t come soon enough. I’m dying to see how this ends!!
KA Linde never fails to deliver books that keeps my attention from start to finish. This one pulled me in from the start and had me hooked entirely. The angst, drama, and the many OMG moments- I was addicted.
Natalie is now a best selling author. Her dreams are coming true. But she finds herself somewhere she never really wanted to be again… back in the city. New York. The Upper East side. As soon as her book release is over, she’ll be gone. That is, until she realizes that NYC is where she needs to be to write. It’s where her muse is.
I can’t even go into this plot because, well, spoilers… but I will say that this story-line could have went so many ways, and there were moments I questioned why it was going in a certain direction, but by the end… Gah! I couldn’t have been happier with the way things started to go. I have high hopes that the next book will give me all I want and need, but I’m sure it will be a bit stressful getting there.
A lot of these characters are manipulative, some are unlikable, but others are amazing. I love that there are so many different types of personalities in this book and you never know what you were getting. There is so much passion, intensity, and crazy sexy moments.
If you’re looking for a book that’s completely addictive and one that will keep you on the edge of your seat, pick up the Cruel series. I am loving these books and July can’t come soon enough. I’m dying to see how this ends!!
Want to read
March 12, 2019
Release: April 23, 2019
Books in Cruel trilogy should be read in order:
Book 0.5: One Cruel Night - FREE!
Book 1: Cruel Money
Book 2: Cruel Fortune
Book 3: Cruel Legacy
April 30, 2019
I sort of feel bad doing this but fuck it. This book was Natalie and Lewis with a side of Penn. Why get us invested in Natalie and Penn then divert?? Kyun?! Because you wanted to write a trilogy and chop our money for a book that would have been perfect as a duet. I hate when authors do that.
And call me the moral police or whatever but its wrong in my book to date your ex’s best friend. I don’t care. They run in the same circle and you’re bound to run into each other at some point. Awkward.
Natalie, where do I even start with you? I hate her character. For someone who says they hate the “Upper East Side” circle/crew, you sure needed little convincing to jump back into it.
Oh and she also cheated on Lewis with Penn in the hotel room Lewis booked for them because in her mind she has already broken up with him so it doesn’t count as cheating? Gurl please.
Why does it even have to be Lewis?? It would have been believable if it were some random dude and not Penn’s best friend. But what do I know, I’m just a mere reader who knows nothing.
I hate that i only write long reviews for books i loathe and be speechless for books i loved 😩
And call me the moral police or whatever but its wrong in my book to date your ex’s best friend. I don’t care. They run in the same circle and you’re bound to run into each other at some point. Awkward.
Natalie, where do I even start with you? I hate her character. For someone who says they hate the “Upper East Side” circle/crew, you sure needed little convincing to jump back into it.
Oh and she also cheated on Lewis with Penn in the hotel room Lewis booked for them because in her mind she has already broken up with him so it doesn’t count as cheating? Gurl please.
Why does it even have to be Lewis?? It would have been believable if it were some random dude and not Penn’s best friend. But what do I know, I’m just a mere reader who knows nothing.
I hate that i only write long reviews for books i loathe and be speechless for books i loved 😩
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2019
4,5.
The author show us what a confusion every mind was, and I loved every word.
I understood the characters very well, but I didn’t support them.
This story was raw!
It’s worth the reading.
The author show us what a confusion every mind was, and I loved every word.
I understood the characters very well, but I didn’t support them.
This story was raw!
It’s worth the reading.
May 6, 2019
the shit doesn't end or simmer down in book 2...
it only gets worse...even though I wanted to believe that the heroine learnt from her mistakes...BUT apparently that's not the case
I'm not pleased by the outcome...there's too much nonshalance in the sexual diversity, I felt like all the characters were mainly thinking/acting out with their holes/heads and nothing really giving an actual thought to the matter/problem/issues...
and still, nothing was resolved...nothing
pretty annoying
it only gets worse...even though I wanted to believe that the heroine learnt from her mistakes...BUT apparently that's not the case
I'm not pleased by the outcome...there's too much nonshalance in the sexual diversity, I felt like all the characters were mainly thinking/acting out with their holes/heads and nothing really giving an actual thought to the matter/problem/issues...
and still, nothing was resolved...nothing
pretty annoying
April 16, 2019
❤️Omg omg omg deep breaths!! Finally ❤️
June 11, 2019
In Cruel Fortune, New York’s Upper East Side returns with no shortage of malicious intentions, devious seduction and deceptive characters. Brimming with maddening pretences and frivolous schemes, the intensity rushing through this sequel will leave your mind stunned, heart racing and emotions unsettled as unexpected situations surface and the dramatic events continue to unfold.
They would lie, cheat, and steal for what they thought belonged to them.
Natalie Bishop goes back to Manhattan, the city of indescribable entitlements and inevitable exclusivity where her heart was shattered into minuscule pieces. Despite the deception, the devastating lie and destructive personalities that altered her perception of Manhattan, Natalie is finding herself returning to—staying—in this heartbreaking city, with charm and beauty that is both irresistible and indescribable, a twisting combination of bittersweet moments and wrenching experiences, to finally accomplish her long-lived dreams of becoming an author.
Abandon. That was what his lips tasted like.
Bliss. That was what his hands felt like.
Reverence. That was what his body sang to me.
Despite the immature scenarios and pettish actions, I’m kind of obsessed with this mess. Cruel Fortune is reminiscent of Gossip Girl and Dynasty, the trash-filled, drama-fuelled television shows that somehow capture my attention, leaving me riveted and invested in fictional characters’ inconsequential bullshit and trainwreck lives.
However, no matter my love, Natalie's bewildering decisions made my teeth hurt from how hard they ground together in frustration. Her revenge-esque attitude doesn't concern me because, to be quite honest, I'm living for the kind of transformation that will make Natalie finally have some backbone against Katherine. I lost respect for Natalie, reaching a firm conclusion that she's weak and feeble, controlled by hormones and indecision instead of having strength and perseverance. Her attitude towards everything—Lewis, Penn, the crew, her career is such a complete disappointment.
“This world chewed me up and spit me out. And they just keep fucking winning. Even when they’re wrong, they always win.”
With lies and secrets, the tense atmosphere and brilliantly constructed environment of toxic deception and venomous intentions, New York’s treacherous Upper East Side will have you consumed and captivated as these characters’ “perfect” lives unravel. Cruel Fortune wasn’t needed or necessary to be honest, just a convenient excuse to drag this series out and ensure there’s a plausible reason to separate Penn from Natalie. It bided time to amplify the series’ finale, make us desperate to have more Penn and see Natalie find herself falling into the Crew’s drama—again. With that said, I do like this author’s writing and will await the finale in Cruel Legacy.
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April 25, 2019
I feel a little bad for leaving a negative review about someone’s hard work, but WOW I found the heroine , Natalie, to be annoying as f***! I really don’t know how I finished this book. I think I was so annoyed by it that I had to finish so I could give an honest rating. This does not need to be a three book series - it is so dragged out!!! I really don’t feel much of anything happened in this book and even the drama at the end was unrealistic. I am happy to be done and to find something else to read! If anyone has suggestions I’m open:)
April 24, 2019
***AVAILABLE NOW***
4 Cruel CROWNS
Filled to the brim with the elite and entitled, K.A. Linde continues to captivate readers with the scandalous and treacherous world of the upper east side.
The characters are very much the same as they were in book one. Natalie has grown a bit, isn’t as naive as she once was, a bit more aware of the dangers of the CREW. With that being said, she also willing enters back intro his world with an unexpected choice. Honestly, I’m still not sure how I feel about it all. I wanted Penn. I still want there to be a relationship with Penn, and for most is the book that wasn’t the case. I wasn’t as invested in this new couple because I loved the original H/h.
Now, even though I was not in love with the plot choices and the new couple, I don’t want to write it off. There is a third book to this trilogy, and, to be honest, this third book is going to affect my review of the whole trilogy. With the final piece falling into place, this is either going to be a good series or one of my favorite series ever. I know that seems extreme, but I’m just not sure how it’s all going to shake out.
As with any K.A. Linde novel, the story is well-written, the characters are fully developed, and the story is intricate. I enjoy her style and the world she has crafted, making me excited to see how she is going to wrap up this story focused in the corrupt upper east side.
ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
4 Cruel CROWNS
Filled to the brim with the elite and entitled, K.A. Linde continues to captivate readers with the scandalous and treacherous world of the upper east side.
The characters are very much the same as they were in book one. Natalie has grown a bit, isn’t as naive as she once was, a bit more aware of the dangers of the CREW. With that being said, she also willing enters back intro his world with an unexpected choice. Honestly, I’m still not sure how I feel about it all. I wanted Penn. I still want there to be a relationship with Penn, and for most is the book that wasn’t the case. I wasn’t as invested in this new couple because I loved the original H/h.
Now, even though I was not in love with the plot choices and the new couple, I don’t want to write it off. There is a third book to this trilogy, and, to be honest, this third book is going to affect my review of the whole trilogy. With the final piece falling into place, this is either going to be a good series or one of my favorite series ever. I know that seems extreme, but I’m just not sure how it’s all going to shake out.
As with any K.A. Linde novel, the story is well-written, the characters are fully developed, and the story is intricate. I enjoy her style and the world she has crafted, making me excited to see how she is going to wrap up this story focused in the corrupt upper east side.
ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
April 19, 2019
Good freaking heavens! My heart’s still racing from all the madness and anxiety these Upper East Siders gave me, and my mind’s still reeling, trying to catch up after everything that just went down.
Cruel Fortune has left me laying like a ball of exposed nerves, stunned speechless and completely stupefied. I mean, what a way to follow up on an already addicting and jaw-dropping book in the series! This was just as juicy and gripping and mind-blowing as Cruel Money, if not more.
After how that first book ended, I honestly didn’t know where or how things would go for the second installment of the series… but I couldn’t be happier with storyline that K.A. Linde gave us here. Talk about an incredible follow through! It was totally unexpected, yet so perfect.
The book just took off running—like being dropped off right in the middle of an action scene. There was no dilly-dallying or whatsoever. We go straight to where Cruel Money left off, and the best part is… you won’t be able to put it down once you dive in. There’s just something so incredibly riveting about Natalie Bishop’s story that will have you glued to the pages of this book. You won’t stop until it’s over. If you thought Cruel Money was already unputdownable, then you’ve seen nothing yet. That was just a taste of what you’ll go through in Cruel Fortune.
Natalie’s life—trying to make a name for herself and finding herself back in the trenches of the biting atmosphere of the Upper East Side, together with all of the crew, their secrets and lies, and this brilliantly crafted world of deception and manipulation, will undoubtedly have you biting your nails, fully overcome with anxiety and nerves and all the emotions a human body can feel all at once. It’s absolutely guaranteed to have you hooked, obsessed and chomping at the bit for the next book by the end of it. Trust me, you’ll be itching to get your hands on Cruel Legacy before this one’s even over.
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They would lie, cheat, and steal for what they thought belonged to them.
Cruel Fortune has left me laying like a ball of exposed nerves, stunned speechless and completely stupefied. I mean, what a way to follow up on an already addicting and jaw-dropping book in the series! This was just as juicy and gripping and mind-blowing as Cruel Money, if not more.
After how that first book ended, I honestly didn’t know where or how things would go for the second installment of the series… but I couldn’t be happier with storyline that K.A. Linde gave us here. Talk about an incredible follow through! It was totally unexpected, yet so perfect.
Abandon. That was what his lips tasted like.
Bliss. That was what his hands felt like.
Reverence. That was what his body sang to me.
The book just took off running—like being dropped off right in the middle of an action scene. There was no dilly-dallying or whatsoever. We go straight to where Cruel Money left off, and the best part is… you won’t be able to put it down once you dive in. There’s just something so incredibly riveting about Natalie Bishop’s story that will have you glued to the pages of this book. You won’t stop until it’s over. If you thought Cruel Money was already unputdownable, then you’ve seen nothing yet. That was just a taste of what you’ll go through in Cruel Fortune.
“This world chewed me up and spit me out. And they just keep fucking winning. Even when they’re wrong, they always win.”
Natalie’s life—trying to make a name for herself and finding herself back in the trenches of the biting atmosphere of the Upper East Side, together with all of the crew, their secrets and lies, and this brilliantly crafted world of deception and manipulation, will undoubtedly have you biting your nails, fully overcome with anxiety and nerves and all the emotions a human body can feel all at once. It’s absolutely guaranteed to have you hooked, obsessed and chomping at the bit for the next book by the end of it. Trust me, you’ll be itching to get your hands on Cruel Legacy before this one’s even over.
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June 20, 2019
DNF
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.
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Don't get me invested in a couple and then throw me into another relationship without the original H. Especially after spewing crap about not wanting to be part of someone's world and then dating his former best friend whose also in the same exact world.
I'm sorry I was reading this book and I was just utterly exasperated within 20% of the book.
This is just another failed sequel for me
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[20.06.2019]
I was told to go back and continue reading to see how the story became more "sensible". That was a mistake! I dont mind cheating in books, but, there must be some remorse/regret or some basic form of logic to it. Cheating on someone because you decided the relationship is over in your head without informing the other person IS.BLOODY.MENTAL!!
I also hate how the h always leaves at the end of both books to "think" I rolled my eyes so hard I'm sure I heard something pop.
Its my own fault for trying to continue reading where I left off.
.
.
.
.
.
.
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Don't get me invested in a couple and then throw me into another relationship without the original H. Especially after spewing crap about not wanting to be part of someone's world and then dating his former best friend whose also in the same exact world.
I'm sorry I was reading this book and I was just utterly exasperated within 20% of the book.
This is just another failed sequel for me
.
.
.
.
[20.06.2019]
I was told to go back and continue reading to see how the story became more "sensible". That was a mistake! I dont mind cheating in books, but, there must be some remorse/regret or some basic form of logic to it. Cheating on someone because you decided the relationship is over in your head without informing the other person IS.BLOODY.MENTAL!!
I also hate how the h always leaves at the end of both books to "think" I rolled my eyes so hard I'm sure I heard something pop.
Its my own fault for trying to continue reading where I left off.
.
.
.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2019
Fake it till you make it. Fake it till you just don't give a f*ck.Someone hold me, please?!
K.A. Linde has been delivering some serious attention gripping books and I've been lapping them up like crazy!
Set a year later after Cruel Money, Natalie is now a New York Times Bestselling author. Her dreams are finally coming true! Everything is going according to her plan and she is actually moving on until she receives an email from her agent that she has to go back to the place that ruined her... New York City.
Her plan is straight and simple — complete all her obligations as an author and then hightail out of the city as quickly as possible but all those plans take a backseat when she realizes that she needs this city. This city, the place, the memories and its people are her muses and she needs it to write her next book.
I can't even write this review and go into detail because MAJOR SPOILERS!
I was definitely not expecting this story to go the way it actually went. I was stunned, is too much of an understatement, and I was sitting wondering desperately "WHY?!" and then as the story progressed HOLY SHIZ ON STICKS, PEOPLE! HOLY SHIZ! I mean, what in the freaking world just happened in this book and don't even get me started on the major climax and ending! *gently squeezes Kathrine Van Pelt's neck*
Number one rule of the Upper East Side, Natalie: it is never nothing.As I mentioned before un my review of Cruel Money, there are some really manipulative and high handed characters, barring a few, but every single of them brings a layer to the story that makes it more rounded and all the more addictive and interesting.
The way this book ended I have some seriously high hopes from the next book, especially from Natalie's character. I, truly want her to go all the Upper East Side on the Upper East Siders and bring them all down.
This series is 100% addictive! With every book, I am left wanting more and with every cliffhanger the need to have the next book in my hand drives me freaking crazy! July really can't come fast enough!
4.5 Stars!
★ Buy Cruel Fortune (Kindle)
★ Buy Cruel Fortune (Paperback)
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*ARC gifted by author in exchange for an honest review.*
April 17, 2019
You know it's a damn good book when you completely ignore all your work and devour the book in hours because you are so invested in these characters. Whoops - not sorry at all. And now I need book 3 - pronto!!
Cruel Money is the 2nd book in Linde's Cruel series and let me tell you, this is one series you MUST READ!!
We are thrown right into the heart of things at the start of Cruel Money and the story never dies down. The story is told from both Penn and Natalie's POVs, however, I was hoping to get a bit inside of Lewis' mind since he played a very large part in this book.
I won't give anything away about the plot. You know what you are in for after reading the first book. The socialites and upper echelon of the East Side only live life one way - playing games and staying at the top by any means. Natalie finds herself back in their web, but this time thinks it might be a bit different since she's more aware of how life is for the rich. Oh, if it were only that obvious.
Linde does a great job of weaving the perfect story and letting it play out so naturally in this world of riches. The secondary characters were once again the perfect antidote to the entire story and blended perfectly together. You know that someone is always up to something but it's the intrigue and excitement of what is to come that keeps this story alive and thriving.
I cannot wait to see what she brings in the third book - the lies, deceit and games - does it ever end?!?
Cruel Money is the 2nd book in Linde's Cruel series and let me tell you, this is one series you MUST READ!!
We are thrown right into the heart of things at the start of Cruel Money and the story never dies down. The story is told from both Penn and Natalie's POVs, however, I was hoping to get a bit inside of Lewis' mind since he played a very large part in this book.
I won't give anything away about the plot. You know what you are in for after reading the first book. The socialites and upper echelon of the East Side only live life one way - playing games and staying at the top by any means. Natalie finds herself back in their web, but this time thinks it might be a bit different since she's more aware of how life is for the rich. Oh, if it were only that obvious.
Linde does a great job of weaving the perfect story and letting it play out so naturally in this world of riches. The secondary characters were once again the perfect antidote to the entire story and blended perfectly together. You know that someone is always up to something but it's the intrigue and excitement of what is to come that keeps this story alive and thriving.
I cannot wait to see what she brings in the third book - the lies, deceit and games - does it ever end?!?
April 24, 2019
The Natalie Bishop readers reunite with in Cruel Fortune is not the one who they were left with at the end of Cruel Money because a year later, she’s not as naive or as innocent to the world around her, and she seems to understand her worth more and the people she can trust, which no longer include who she thought would be the love of her life or Penn’s crew of Upper East siders.
But Natalie’s hesitancy to go back to the ‘scene of the crime,’ to the city that chewed her up and spit her out due to a crew of manipulative and entitled pricks, even if it’s for something as glorious as her own book release celebration, speaks to the damage that was done to her and her refusal to be a part of any environment that thrives on lies, secrets, and manipulation.
The Upper East Side Crew did give Natalie something, though, in return for the hell they put her through - they gave her an outlet for her anger…for her pain…for her grief…an opportunity to be exactly who and what she had always wanted to be - a writer. And while the consequences of the crew’s actions left her broken hearted and betrayed, she channeled those feelings into her writing and crafted quite the tale about her experience with The Crew, exposing who the Upper East Side elite are, the games that they play, and the hearts and lives that they destroy simply because they have the money, the power, and the desire to do so.
But the extent of Natalie’s transformation is still very much a work-in-progress and because she’s thrown back into the lion’s den for a number of reasons, the games that she doesn’t want to play and the despicable people she doesn’t want to be around are, once again, points of contention and torment for her, and her choices when she’s back in the mix of the elite, including who she chooses to spend her time with and confide in, make me question exactly how much she’s grown and learned from her past mistakes and if everything she was hoping to avoid, especially further heartache, has no way to be prevented due to her reemergence into the world that almost destroyed her.
I have to admit that I was a bit perplexed by the way things played out in Cruel Fortune; I didn’t understand why Natalie seemed to make the same mistakes as last time, only with someone other than Penn. Natalie’s decisions, while good for her writing career, were not ones that make sense when readers look at the big picture and everything she’s risking, yet again, to be in the company of the Crew.
But I know I have to trust in the story that KA Linde has laid out and where she’s leading her hero and heroine, and while it’s difficult at this point, as long as everything comes full circle and the journey fits the characters, I’ll be ready for the conclusion of Penn and Natalie’s story.
With the small insight Linde gave readers for the final book in the trilogy, I can’t wait for Natalie’s reckoning…I want the Crew to understand that they have no right to do the things they do by playing with other people’s emotions and lives! And I have one person in particular in mind for her to unload on; I desperately need a certain Queen B to get hers in the end…the games she played and continues to play with other people’s lives speaks to the spoiled and entitled bitch she is, and she deserves everything that Natalie has in store for her.
3.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
But Natalie’s hesitancy to go back to the ‘scene of the crime,’ to the city that chewed her up and spit her out due to a crew of manipulative and entitled pricks, even if it’s for something as glorious as her own book release celebration, speaks to the damage that was done to her and her refusal to be a part of any environment that thrives on lies, secrets, and manipulation.
The Upper East Side Crew did give Natalie something, though, in return for the hell they put her through - they gave her an outlet for her anger…for her pain…for her grief…an opportunity to be exactly who and what she had always wanted to be - a writer. And while the consequences of the crew’s actions left her broken hearted and betrayed, she channeled those feelings into her writing and crafted quite the tale about her experience with The Crew, exposing who the Upper East Side elite are, the games that they play, and the hearts and lives that they destroy simply because they have the money, the power, and the desire to do so.
But the extent of Natalie’s transformation is still very much a work-in-progress and because she’s thrown back into the lion’s den for a number of reasons, the games that she doesn’t want to play and the despicable people she doesn’t want to be around are, once again, points of contention and torment for her, and her choices when she’s back in the mix of the elite, including who she chooses to spend her time with and confide in, make me question exactly how much she’s grown and learned from her past mistakes and if everything she was hoping to avoid, especially further heartache, has no way to be prevented due to her reemergence into the world that almost destroyed her.
I have to admit that I was a bit perplexed by the way things played out in Cruel Fortune; I didn’t understand why Natalie seemed to make the same mistakes as last time, only with someone other than Penn. Natalie’s decisions, while good for her writing career, were not ones that make sense when readers look at the big picture and everything she’s risking, yet again, to be in the company of the Crew.
But I know I have to trust in the story that KA Linde has laid out and where she’s leading her hero and heroine, and while it’s difficult at this point, as long as everything comes full circle and the journey fits the characters, I’ll be ready for the conclusion of Penn and Natalie’s story.
With the small insight Linde gave readers for the final book in the trilogy, I can’t wait for Natalie’s reckoning…I want the Crew to understand that they have no right to do the things they do by playing with other people’s emotions and lives! And I have one person in particular in mind for her to unload on; I desperately need a certain Queen B to get hers in the end…the games she played and continues to play with other people’s lives speaks to the spoiled and entitled bitch she is, and she deserves everything that Natalie has in store for her.
3.5 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
April 24, 2019
Original angsty K.A. Linde has reared that sweet, beautiful, I want to throw my kindle, head of hers. Cruel Fortune is reminiscent of her Avoiding Series, while having its own vibe and layers of complexity. I will admit I wanted to aim my kindle at Natalie in the hopes I'd hit her in the head with it but I loved the "dance" between her and Penn. There were times she could be a bit whiny but I think that was more her naivety and she is young (my old self thinks everyone is whiny).
And of course there are many other players in the game along with their money, which made for a page turner. Can't wait to see how it all plays out in the next instalment. There's a new force to be reckoned with-- Natalie Bishop is here to play. The naive girl from Charleston is learning the rules of the Upper East Side.
D 4/5
And of course there are many other players in the game along with their money, which made for a page turner. Can't wait to see how it all plays out in the next instalment. There's a new force to be reckoned with-- Natalie Bishop is here to play. The naive girl from Charleston is learning the rules of the Upper East Side.
D 4/5
April 21, 2019
Cruel Fortune was another exhilerating ride by K.A. Linde. I was addicted after Cruel Money and was very intrigued about the direction of this story after that ending in book one. Natalie was absolutely amazing but if you thought book one was high in angst and drama you haven't seen anything yet!!
This review will be dreadfully vague because..spoilers, but we are now in New York and Natalie is a successful novelist. But the dramatic secret filled world she thought she escaped has once again reared its ugly head where secrets, lies and drama are all once again entwined. I am seriously hooked and shocked af at that ending!! OMG!! 4 stars! ~Ratula
This review will be dreadfully vague because..spoilers, but we are now in New York and Natalie is a successful novelist. But the dramatic secret filled world she thought she escaped has once again reared its ugly head where secrets, lies and drama are all once again entwined. I am seriously hooked and shocked af at that ending!! OMG!! 4 stars! ~Ratula
July 16, 2019
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars! Wow! Each book just got better and better. I’m ready for some revenge along with the heroine, because damn, they did her dirty!
April 24, 2019
So going in I was super excited to see where this story was going. Right off the bat I knew it was not going to go the way I had hoped but I was still hooked. Linde paints a story of angst, intrigue, and upper class assholes like no other. Even though the story wasn't how I hoped things would go, the writing really sucked me and and kept me engaged.
I'm looking forward to the next chapter of this series and can't wait to see how it pans out!
I'm looking forward to the next chapter of this series and can't wait to see how it pans out!
April 24, 2019
Oh K.A. Linde what have you done to me! I went into this book fulling believing that it would be one thing and what I got was completely unexpected. If you have read the first book in the series you know that this Upper East Side Crew is ruthless and undeniably some of the most cunning people you will ever read about in a book or even meet in real life. I was literally terrified to read this one... I was so afraid of what would happen and honestly I was partially right, but never saw it going where it led in the end.
Our heroine Natalie is sucked back into a life with a promise that things can be different and that she does belong in their world. She now has money and prestige even if her pen name keeps people from knowing that she wrote the New York Times debut Bet On It. She insisted that her name be kept out of the public eye, for obvious reasons, since the book is from her real life experience. They always say write what you know and now that Natalie is doing what she loves and making a career about it, she makes some decisions thinking that she can trust, and that things can be different this time.
Our hero... well he's still broken and defeated. He tried so hard to win the heart of his beloved only to watch her in the arms of another. I don't want to spoil the who, what, when, where, why and HOW THE HELL DID THIS HAPPEN!!!! But let's just say Penn will NOT be giving up or giving in without a fight. Natalie is his, and he will win her back. Now he just has to figure out how and when to make the right move... I wish I could tell your more about what's happening in this book with Penn and Natalie, but you really need to read this one all for yourself!
I don't know where book three is going to lead us, all I know is that we need to brace hard for the impact, because I think our heroine is about to burn down the Upper East Side in a fashion like we have never seen. Natalie showed some real backbone in this book, and I think that after the final chapter of this book and that epilogue... Natalie is coming to play, and she's got fire in her veins! I cannot wait to see what Ms. Linde has in store for us next!!!
Our heroine Natalie is sucked back into a life with a promise that things can be different and that she does belong in their world. She now has money and prestige even if her pen name keeps people from knowing that she wrote the New York Times debut Bet On It. She insisted that her name be kept out of the public eye, for obvious reasons, since the book is from her real life experience. They always say write what you know and now that Natalie is doing what she loves and making a career about it, she makes some decisions thinking that she can trust, and that things can be different this time.
Our hero... well he's still broken and defeated. He tried so hard to win the heart of his beloved only to watch her in the arms of another. I don't want to spoil the who, what, when, where, why and HOW THE HELL DID THIS HAPPEN!!!! But let's just say Penn will NOT be giving up or giving in without a fight. Natalie is his, and he will win her back. Now he just has to figure out how and when to make the right move... I wish I could tell your more about what's happening in this book with Penn and Natalie, but you really need to read this one all for yourself!
I don't know where book three is going to lead us, all I know is that we need to brace hard for the impact, because I think our heroine is about to burn down the Upper East Side in a fashion like we have never seen. Natalie showed some real backbone in this book, and I think that after the final chapter of this book and that epilogue... Natalie is coming to play, and she's got fire in her veins! I cannot wait to see what Ms. Linde has in store for us next!!!
April 22, 2019
4.5 how can they be so cruel stars!
Penn and Natalie's story continues with twists and turns I NEVER expected. This story leaves you REELING for the next!! Holy cracker jacks.....Cruel Fortune picks up in the same fashion as the first book, twisted friendships, glitz and glamour, bored socialites, and more money than people know what to do with. Natalie is thrust back into the world that nearly broke her the first time.
This time around, Natalie has success on her side. She's no longer the naive lamb from the first book. She's learnt her lessons, she doesn't trust easily, but she's still easily swayed into the life of the Upper East Side. Every page of this book had me second guessing who to trust, what is the truth, and what's going to happen next. The lessons learnt, fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me; fool me thrice....the whole world is coming down.
Cruel Fortune is quite the segue to Cruel Legacy; the conclusion of this twisted game of power, glitz, and the riches. I'm dying to read Natalie and Penn's finale, these books have me sitting at the edge of my seat!!
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
Penn and Natalie's story continues with twists and turns I NEVER expected. This story leaves you REELING for the next!! Holy cracker jacks.....Cruel Fortune picks up in the same fashion as the first book, twisted friendships, glitz and glamour, bored socialites, and more money than people know what to do with. Natalie is thrust back into the world that nearly broke her the first time.
This time around, Natalie has success on her side. She's no longer the naive lamb from the first book. She's learnt her lessons, she doesn't trust easily, but she's still easily swayed into the life of the Upper East Side. Every page of this book had me second guessing who to trust, what is the truth, and what's going to happen next. The lessons learnt, fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me; fool me thrice....the whole world is coming down.
Cruel Fortune is quite the segue to Cruel Legacy; the conclusion of this twisted game of power, glitz, and the riches. I'm dying to read Natalie and Penn's finale, these books have me sitting at the edge of my seat!!
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review*
April 21, 2019
Natalie has now written a book about the underbelly of the aristocrats of the Upper East Side. She was smart enough to write it under a pen name to protect herself. But is that enough?
As she begins to promo the book, she is exposed to Lewis again. Of course, the highest bid by a publisher for her book was from his father's publishing company. Does this smell like a set-up? You know it! The games are starting again.
Lewis pursues Natalie relentlessly. Too bad he is not totally sincere and continues to manipulate the situation. And let's not forget that promoting the book in New York City throws Natalie straight into the vortex of evil Katherine and brooding Penn. Never a dull moment!
Now I am waiting for the final installment of this series. I really want those evil, manipulative, and entitled characters to get caught and destroyed. They are the worse people on earth!
I am voluntarily reviewing this book. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy with me.
As she begins to promo the book, she is exposed to Lewis again. Of course, the highest bid by a publisher for her book was from his father's publishing company. Does this smell like a set-up? You know it! The games are starting again.
Lewis pursues Natalie relentlessly. Too bad he is not totally sincere and continues to manipulate the situation. And let's not forget that promoting the book in New York City throws Natalie straight into the vortex of evil Katherine and brooding Penn. Never a dull moment!
Now I am waiting for the final installment of this series. I really want those evil, manipulative, and entitled characters to get caught and destroyed. They are the worse people on earth!
I am voluntarily reviewing this book. Thanks to the author for sharing a copy with me.
April 26, 2019
Whoever wrote that the trilogy is Penn and Natalie's story must have meant that it's Natalie's story with another man and at the same time we get Penn's story. For most of the book, Natalie is in a relationship with another man which was way too predictable and I was kinda expecting it to happen since the moment I finished book 1. She even has sex with the other man, so she is not just casually dating him and spends more and more nights at his house. Isn't it romantic to have her sleep with another person? Don't you love so far Natalie's relationship with Penn? I was having a great time reading the book. Not. And there is also cheating. So far we have OM drama, cheating, been in a relationship with another man. 3 out of my 5 pet peeves is where I draw the line. And the fact that I had predicted that this would happen makes things even worse. Natalie was also a hypocrite and that was the final straw that made me add her to the worst heroines list. I do not plan to read the third book because as far as I know we can have another woman for Penn or another man in Natalie's life and I don't want to do that. I got invested in this couple (Penn and Natalie) and most of this book is about one half of the couple been a couple with another person. I have loved K.A. Linde's books in the past (heck, the first book in the series got 5 stars from me), but this is not what I wanted to read at all.
April 15, 2023
2.5 stars rounded up
Huh. I guess I liked it better than the first book, for some reason? It wasn't really a romance, what with the heroine being in a relationship with a different guy for most of the book. And the story focusing more on Natalie navigating the wild twisted jungle of Upper East Side's elite. Plus, I wasn't Penn's biggest fan (and that's putting it mildly) before and this book did nothing to make me like him, so I was pretty much ambivalent on who Natalie was with.
On Penn, that man is just outrageous and not in the good way:
“She wants you to fight for her, you idiot.”
I couldn’t help but scoff. “I tried that once. Didn’t exactly go as planned, did it?”
“Boohoo, you tried once. The only time you’ve had to try for anything in your whole life. Guess that’s over.
That dude was really butthurt over how Natalie rejected him right after he made a total of one (1!) "grand" gesture of flying to her hometown and trying to get her back with a...big speech, I guess? Felt more like useless excuses to me, but what do I know 🙃
“Yeah well, she spat in my face that I’d fucking slept with half of the Upper East Side. No wonder she had fire in her eyes. Who do you think told her?”
Lark pursed her lips. “Was it supposed to be a secret?”
I narrowed my eyes at her.
She held up her hands in surrender. “Everyone knows you did, Penn. All spring, it was a different model, socialite, long-legged beauty. I’m not sure why you’re surprised that Natalie found out.”
“We weren’t even together!” I snapped. “And she’s holding it against me when she was the one who said that we were never going to see each other again. That flying a thousand fucking miles couldn’t change anything.”
I know,” she whispered. “But look at it through her eyes. She cared for you, and then as soon as you broke up, you slept with every woman who walked past you.”
“Not all of them,” I said carefully, my voice on a razor’s edge. “Not Katherine.”
“Oh boy,” Lark said. She glanced my way and waited. “I assume there’s a story there?”
“Katherine ruined the one thing that was real for me,” Penn said. “So, I fucked a few brainless socialites to piss her off. It was more of a chore than anything. But I was going after Katherine in the best way I could. I picked up each of the dumb friends she associated with and was seen with on Page Six.”
He's also butthurt that Natalie seems to hold it against him that he's slept with all these other women. You know, right after she told him there's no chance for them and it's over - after he'd made a bet with his friend Katherine that he'd get her to fall for him and had kept manipulating and lying to her for weeks. But he should get a cookie because he didn't sleep with Katherine. Who RUINED HIS LIFE by the way, because he, as a grown up man, has apparently no will of his own to make decisions, it was that awful evil woman who made him do it 🙃
“Yes, I slept with other people. Because you said that we were never going to be together. You slammed the door shut. And the only way to get back at Katherine for fucking ruining my life was to sleep with her friends until I got bored and realized none of them could ever fill the void that was missing. None of them could make me forget you.
Give this man a medal, he did it all for love, and we just don't get him xD
So yeah, Penn...not my favourite. But why am I rounding up this book to 3 stars then?
💅 this might seem like a small thing, but kudos to the author for not shying away from heroine's sex scenes with OM - like, if you're gonna write a type of story where there's separation, I want the heroine to have a normal, healthy sex life instead of author having her revirginize herself pining after the hero (especially when the said hero continues to sleep around);
and extra kudos for those sex scenes not feeling comparative to sex with hero and how his dick was bigger or any other bullshit like that - she desired, she fucked, she got her Os, end of story, nothing to see here folks
💅 Katherine Van Pelt - what can I say, the meaner the girls, the more I like them 😭🥵 Ruthless, manipulative AND with a serious self-destructive streak? Why, hello my new fav, nice to meet you!
“I’m going to make you regret this,” I said seriously.
“Sure you are, kitty cat,” Katherine said with another laugh. As if I’d made the joke of the season. “I’m so scared.”
Huh. I guess I liked it better than the first book, for some reason? It wasn't really a romance, what with the heroine being in a relationship with a different guy for most of the book. And the story focusing more on Natalie navigating the wild twisted jungle of Upper East Side's elite. Plus, I wasn't Penn's biggest fan (and that's putting it mildly) before and this book did nothing to make me like him, so I was pretty much ambivalent on who Natalie was with.
On Penn, that man is just outrageous and not in the good way:
“She wants you to fight for her, you idiot.”
I couldn’t help but scoff. “I tried that once. Didn’t exactly go as planned, did it?”
“Boohoo, you tried once. The only time you’ve had to try for anything in your whole life. Guess that’s over.
That dude was really butthurt over how Natalie rejected him right after he made a total of one (1!) "grand" gesture of flying to her hometown and trying to get her back with a...big speech, I guess? Felt more like useless excuses to me, but what do I know 🙃
“Yeah well, she spat in my face that I’d fucking slept with half of the Upper East Side. No wonder she had fire in her eyes. Who do you think told her?”
Lark pursed her lips. “Was it supposed to be a secret?”
I narrowed my eyes at her.
She held up her hands in surrender. “Everyone knows you did, Penn. All spring, it was a different model, socialite, long-legged beauty. I’m not sure why you’re surprised that Natalie found out.”
“We weren’t even together!” I snapped. “And she’s holding it against me when she was the one who said that we were never going to see each other again. That flying a thousand fucking miles couldn’t change anything.”
I know,” she whispered. “But look at it through her eyes. She cared for you, and then as soon as you broke up, you slept with every woman who walked past you.”
“Not all of them,” I said carefully, my voice on a razor’s edge. “Not Katherine.”
“Oh boy,” Lark said. She glanced my way and waited. “I assume there’s a story there?”
“Katherine ruined the one thing that was real for me,” Penn said. “So, I fucked a few brainless socialites to piss her off. It was more of a chore than anything. But I was going after Katherine in the best way I could. I picked up each of the dumb friends she associated with and was seen with on Page Six.”
He's also butthurt that Natalie seems to hold it against him that he's slept with all these other women. You know, right after she told him there's no chance for them and it's over - after he'd made a bet with his friend Katherine that he'd get her to fall for him and had kept manipulating and lying to her for weeks. But he should get a cookie because he didn't sleep with Katherine. Who RUINED HIS LIFE by the way, because he, as a grown up man, has apparently no will of his own to make decisions, it was that awful evil woman who made him do it 🙃
“Yes, I slept with other people. Because you said that we were never going to be together. You slammed the door shut. And the only way to get back at Katherine for fucking ruining my life was to sleep with her friends until I got bored and realized none of them could ever fill the void that was missing. None of them could make me forget you.
Give this man a medal, he did it all for love, and we just don't get him xD
So yeah, Penn...not my favourite. But why am I rounding up this book to 3 stars then?
💅 this might seem like a small thing, but kudos to the author for not shying away from heroine's sex scenes with OM - like, if you're gonna write a type of story where there's separation, I want the heroine to have a normal, healthy sex life instead of author having her revirginize herself pining after the hero (especially when the said hero continues to sleep around);
and extra kudos for those sex scenes not feeling comparative to sex with hero and how his dick was bigger or any other bullshit like that - she desired, she fucked, she got her Os, end of story, nothing to see here folks
💅 Katherine Van Pelt - what can I say, the meaner the girls, the more I like them 😭🥵 Ruthless, manipulative AND with a serious self-destructive streak? Why, hello my new fav, nice to meet you!
“I’m going to make you regret this,” I said seriously.
“Sure you are, kitty cat,” Katherine said with another laugh. As if I’d made the joke of the season. “I’m so scared.”
April 20, 2019
K A Linde takes you on a crazy ride with this book, and you will find yourself alternately screaming at the characters and screaming at Linde herself.
A brief warning before we get to the good stuff: this review will contain spoilers from Cruel Money, the first book in the Cruel trilogy. So if you haven’t read that–and if you haven’t read it, what in the world is wrong with you–be warned.
Cruel Fortune picks up a few days after Cruel Money ended, letting you see the immediate effects of Natalie’s learning that Penn had a bet going on with Katherine regarding getting Natalie to fall in love with him. The rest of the book follows the aftermath.
I’m not going to talk plot with you because I worry I’ll give away something. Instead, I’m going to focus on a couple of things that K A Linde does that are SPECTACULAR.
That word “cruel” in the title. To accept it as part of the crew’s general practices would be to wildly diminish its impact. These people aren’t just cruel, they are vindictive. They are heartless. They are malicious. Every time they tell Natalie how wonderful she is (“You’re brilliant;” “You’re an incredible writer”), there is no genuine affection behind those words. There is no sincerity. They throw around platitudes and compliments to manipulate and coerce. To toy with and tease. Sometimes I wanted to grab Natalie by the shoulders and shout at her to NOT BELIEVE THEM.
But then I realized how much I, like Natalie, wanted to do that very thing.
Can you imagine what it would feel like to have that sort of attention, that sort of adulation from these people–from these wealthy, gorgeous, glamorous people? Can you imagine what it would feel like to be in the center of their orbit?
As frustrated as I got with Natalie’s inability to see the truth, I absolutely could understand why she didn’t want to. She says she wants nothing to do with their world, yet she is drawn to it. She finds inspiration in it, yes, but she also finds a place where she feels like–however unfounded that feeling may be–she belongs.
Which brings me to the other thing K A Linde does: she puts you in the mind of a character you didn’t know you needed to hear from until you do. This person who seemed one-note and static becomes more fully developed, more real, someone you want to know better. Someone you could even empathize with.
As Linde moves us to the final book in this trilogy, I look forward to what she’s going to do with these characters. What further cruelties will they inflict on each other? How will Natalie survive? At the end of Cruel Fortune, she is stronger, more worldly, even cynical to an extent. She has been fooled and fooled again. And now she knows the truth, about the crew, Penn, and herself. What will she do with that information?
I can’t wait to find out.
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A brief warning before we get to the good stuff: this review will contain spoilers from Cruel Money, the first book in the Cruel trilogy. So if you haven’t read that–and if you haven’t read it, what in the world is wrong with you–be warned.
Cruel Fortune picks up a few days after Cruel Money ended, letting you see the immediate effects of Natalie’s learning that Penn had a bet going on with Katherine regarding getting Natalie to fall in love with him. The rest of the book follows the aftermath.
I’m not going to talk plot with you because I worry I’ll give away something. Instead, I’m going to focus on a couple of things that K A Linde does that are SPECTACULAR.
That word “cruel” in the title. To accept it as part of the crew’s general practices would be to wildly diminish its impact. These people aren’t just cruel, they are vindictive. They are heartless. They are malicious. Every time they tell Natalie how wonderful she is (“You’re brilliant;” “You’re an incredible writer”), there is no genuine affection behind those words. There is no sincerity. They throw around platitudes and compliments to manipulate and coerce. To toy with and tease. Sometimes I wanted to grab Natalie by the shoulders and shout at her to NOT BELIEVE THEM.
But then I realized how much I, like Natalie, wanted to do that very thing.
Can you imagine what it would feel like to have that sort of attention, that sort of adulation from these people–from these wealthy, gorgeous, glamorous people? Can you imagine what it would feel like to be in the center of their orbit?
As frustrated as I got with Natalie’s inability to see the truth, I absolutely could understand why she didn’t want to. She says she wants nothing to do with their world, yet she is drawn to it. She finds inspiration in it, yes, but she also finds a place where she feels like–however unfounded that feeling may be–she belongs.
Which brings me to the other thing K A Linde does: she puts you in the mind of a character you didn’t know you needed to hear from until you do. This person who seemed one-note and static becomes more fully developed, more real, someone you want to know better. Someone you could even empathize with.
As Linde moves us to the final book in this trilogy, I look forward to what she’s going to do with these characters. What further cruelties will they inflict on each other? How will Natalie survive? At the end of Cruel Fortune, she is stronger, more worldly, even cynical to an extent. She has been fooled and fooled again. And now she knows the truth, about the crew, Penn, and herself. What will she do with that information?
I can’t wait to find out.
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April 19, 2019
********* AUDIOBOOK REVIEW *********
Well, Good Lord! This was sexy AF! I sooo want to spill everything or at least chat about it all but… I can’t! You all deserve all the surprises like I got while listening! KA Linde should write storylines for porn! I mean, shesh, I feel like I ended up pregnant after this book! * fans self and proceeds to wiggle * Besides being an insanely sexy book, Linde perfects the mean girl vibe in this story. I felt a constant unease that something was amiss. Her writing is top notch and I can’t stop listening!
Cruel Fortune is full of tension. I felt like I spent so much time waiting for the ball to drop and the deception to show. Miss Linde makes you feel like you’re waiting for it all to collapse and fall apart. For as much as Natalie doesn’t want to be included in the Upper East Time she really finds herself swimming in it time after time. I find myself hating most of these characters and liking a few. The few make it impossible to stay away. It’s a compulsive story that will have you rooting for the underdog to take control and put the “bullies” in their places finally! It’s funny how vindictive I FEEL after reading this. I want to go all “girl fight” on them and pull some hair!
My main complaint about this story is that I was so tired of hearing about how Natalie doesn’t fit in the “Upper East Side”. It makes me feel like she is the one mainly creating this division.
Yes they are as cruel AF.
Yes they are sketchy AF.
Yes they are petty and deceitful.
They are vicious and mean.
But I love my heroines strong. I appreciated it when Natalie stood up and was strong. I felt like applauding! It’s funny how conflicted I felt after finishing. One thing I know for sure… I need book 3 more than my next child support check from KA Linde since she’s caused immaculate conception and all that!
I was able to get an advanced Audiobook of Cruel Fortune. Let me tell you all, Virginia Rose and Stephen Dexter gave an amazing performance! I wasn’t able to stop listening. You can feel the heartache in Penn and Natalie. You can feel the tension in the entire story. There were some intimate scenes in this book that would have been super hot to read but listening to them… like I said, I’m not pregnant. This was a perfect audiobook!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
Well, Good Lord! This was sexy AF! I sooo want to spill everything or at least chat about it all but… I can’t! You all deserve all the surprises like I got while listening! KA Linde should write storylines for porn! I mean, shesh, I feel like I ended up pregnant after this book! * fans self and proceeds to wiggle * Besides being an insanely sexy book, Linde perfects the mean girl vibe in this story. I felt a constant unease that something was amiss. Her writing is top notch and I can’t stop listening!
Cruel Fortune is full of tension. I felt like I spent so much time waiting for the ball to drop and the deception to show. Miss Linde makes you feel like you’re waiting for it all to collapse and fall apart. For as much as Natalie doesn’t want to be included in the Upper East Time she really finds herself swimming in it time after time. I find myself hating most of these characters and liking a few. The few make it impossible to stay away. It’s a compulsive story that will have you rooting for the underdog to take control and put the “bullies” in their places finally! It’s funny how vindictive I FEEL after reading this. I want to go all “girl fight” on them and pull some hair!
My main complaint about this story is that I was so tired of hearing about how Natalie doesn’t fit in the “Upper East Side”. It makes me feel like she is the one mainly creating this division.
Yes they are as cruel AF.
Yes they are sketchy AF.
Yes they are petty and deceitful.
They are vicious and mean.
But I love my heroines strong. I appreciated it when Natalie stood up and was strong. I felt like applauding! It’s funny how conflicted I felt after finishing. One thing I know for sure… I need book 3 more than my next child support check from KA Linde since she’s caused immaculate conception and all that!
I was able to get an advanced Audiobook of Cruel Fortune. Let me tell you all, Virginia Rose and Stephen Dexter gave an amazing performance! I wasn’t able to stop listening. You can feel the heartache in Penn and Natalie. You can feel the tension in the entire story. There were some intimate scenes in this book that would have been super hot to read but listening to them… like I said, I’m not pregnant. This was a perfect audiobook!
I received an ARC of this book with the hope that I would leave an Unbiased Opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that... my opinions.
Check out my Blog: Next Book Review
Check out my Facebook Page: Next Book Review Facebook
April 22, 2019
KFForever
Reviewed by Donna on behalf of KindleFriendsForever
Cruel Fortune is the second in the Cruel trilogy and picks up a year after an incident which happened in Cruel Money. Natalie is now a successful bestselling author and finds herself going back to the place she never thought she'd step into again. It’s only for a short while before her book’s released and then she’ll be out of there and back home in Charleston. The only issue is she’s struggling to write at home. She’d lost her muse previously; the hot alpha enigmatic man, Penn Kensington. Natalie would sacrifice seeing him again to have the words flow freely but it’s possible she’ll find a new muse in the Big Apple with lots of potential stories in such lively surroundings. After all, she knows she’d never belonged in the world of filthy rich people who will scheme to get what they want or give a second thought as to whom they'd step on. Obviously, even though it’s a large city, Natalie finds herself bumping into the Crew, a bunch of ruthless people that had hurt her in a spectacular way. However, new friendships and a relationship are formed regardless of her being a little apprehensive. In the back of her mind, she isn't sure about people's intentions towards her.
“Your passion is my favorite thing about you. Most people around here lose it, contain it, leash it. You set yours free and it lights you up.”
I can’t go into this story too much without potentially giving loads away. But let me tell you this; it’s a rollercoaster of a ride full of drama, scheming and abounding angst. I mean angst with a capital A! Brilliantly executed, I was on the edge of my seat watching what felt like a car crash in slow motion. I couldn't stop reading to find out what was going to happen; especially some of the decisions and actions key characters took. I couldn't figure out who was sincere and I certainly knew who wasn't, that's for sure. I mustn't forget the chemistry and passion in Cruel Fortune. Wow, one scene was intensely hot!
The writing and storytelling were absolutely outstanding and there’s a brilliantly put together playlist which if you listen to periodically as well as reading, you’ll feel like you’re living the story. When an author can transport you right there in the moment, it's evident the writing is cleverly put together. I was kept wondering if certain characters’ actions had a lot more going on then what I was being led to believe, and intrigued as to where Ms. Linde was taking the story. I have so many books to read and it was with trepidation that I picked up my kindle to read another since this thrilling book was still stuck in the back of my mind. The ending definitely left me thirsty for more. The only clue I will give is I think the next and final part of this trilogy will have the readers even more on edge as the closing scenes were fighting talk. Bravo for a fabulous story Ms. Linde.
One of my favourite quotes is:
“Fake it till you make it. Fake it till you just don't give a …..”
Reviewed by Donna on behalf of KindleFriendsForever
Cruel Fortune is the second in the Cruel trilogy and picks up a year after an incident which happened in Cruel Money. Natalie is now a successful bestselling author and finds herself going back to the place she never thought she'd step into again. It’s only for a short while before her book’s released and then she’ll be out of there and back home in Charleston. The only issue is she’s struggling to write at home. She’d lost her muse previously; the hot alpha enigmatic man, Penn Kensington. Natalie would sacrifice seeing him again to have the words flow freely but it’s possible she’ll find a new muse in the Big Apple with lots of potential stories in such lively surroundings. After all, she knows she’d never belonged in the world of filthy rich people who will scheme to get what they want or give a second thought as to whom they'd step on. Obviously, even though it’s a large city, Natalie finds herself bumping into the Crew, a bunch of ruthless people that had hurt her in a spectacular way. However, new friendships and a relationship are formed regardless of her being a little apprehensive. In the back of her mind, she isn't sure about people's intentions towards her.
“Your passion is my favorite thing about you. Most people around here lose it, contain it, leash it. You set yours free and it lights you up.”
I can’t go into this story too much without potentially giving loads away. But let me tell you this; it’s a rollercoaster of a ride full of drama, scheming and abounding angst. I mean angst with a capital A! Brilliantly executed, I was on the edge of my seat watching what felt like a car crash in slow motion. I couldn't stop reading to find out what was going to happen; especially some of the decisions and actions key characters took. I couldn't figure out who was sincere and I certainly knew who wasn't, that's for sure. I mustn't forget the chemistry and passion in Cruel Fortune. Wow, one scene was intensely hot!
The writing and storytelling were absolutely outstanding and there’s a brilliantly put together playlist which if you listen to periodically as well as reading, you’ll feel like you’re living the story. When an author can transport you right there in the moment, it's evident the writing is cleverly put together. I was kept wondering if certain characters’ actions had a lot more going on then what I was being led to believe, and intrigued as to where Ms. Linde was taking the story. I have so many books to read and it was with trepidation that I picked up my kindle to read another since this thrilling book was still stuck in the back of my mind. The ending definitely left me thirsty for more. The only clue I will give is I think the next and final part of this trilogy will have the readers even more on edge as the closing scenes were fighting talk. Bravo for a fabulous story Ms. Linde.
One of my favourite quotes is:
“Fake it till you make it. Fake it till you just don't give a …..”
April 15, 2019
* A review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review *
~ 4 Cruel Stars ~
I have to be honest and say I spent at least half of the story totally aggravated with the way the story line went. I can’t explain why because it is a major spoiler, but I’ll just say it wasn’t how I was expecting or hoping it would go.
Now even with that said, I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down. I just liked the first book better and I am hoping things change for the third and final book. I understand why the storyline took this direction….it totally added to the angst factor of this story.
There isn’t a lot that I can say about this story because I don’t want to give anything away. Just know that this book was filled with more angst, lies, and secrets….just like the first book. This book also does have romance and sexy times. But not everything is what you think. This book will keep your attention until the very end.
I thought this was a good middle book in this trilogy. Even though this went in a completely different direction than I was expecting, it was another good addition to this addictive story.
I will say this….YES this book ends on a cliffhanger. There is one more book coming out in July. So if you don’t like cliffhangers you need to wait for the next book and binge read all 3 together. I thought this cliffy was rougher then the first book. I want the next book like YESTERDAY!!! I have to see where she is taking Natalie’s character. With the way she ended this book, I can’t wait to see what Natalie does. I have to say I didn’t like Natalie’s character as much in this book. She really kind of grated on my nerves. She wasn’t like the heroine we met in the first book. I can’t explain why. I just hope we get the old Natalie back in the final book.
This book is NOT a standalone novel. You do need to read book 1 first to understand this story. This book picks up right where book 1 ended. So this book won’t make sense if you don’t read Cruel Money first.
This is definitely a trilogy you need to add to your TBR list!!
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~ 4 Cruel Stars ~
I have to be honest and say I spent at least half of the story totally aggravated with the way the story line went. I can’t explain why because it is a major spoiler, but I’ll just say it wasn’t how I was expecting or hoping it would go.
Now even with that said, I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down. I just liked the first book better and I am hoping things change for the third and final book. I understand why the storyline took this direction….it totally added to the angst factor of this story.
There isn’t a lot that I can say about this story because I don’t want to give anything away. Just know that this book was filled with more angst, lies, and secrets….just like the first book. This book also does have romance and sexy times. But not everything is what you think. This book will keep your attention until the very end.
I thought this was a good middle book in this trilogy. Even though this went in a completely different direction than I was expecting, it was another good addition to this addictive story.
I will say this….YES this book ends on a cliffhanger. There is one more book coming out in July. So if you don’t like cliffhangers you need to wait for the next book and binge read all 3 together. I thought this cliffy was rougher then the first book. I want the next book like YESTERDAY!!! I have to see where she is taking Natalie’s character. With the way she ended this book, I can’t wait to see what Natalie does. I have to say I didn’t like Natalie’s character as much in this book. She really kind of grated on my nerves. She wasn’t like the heroine we met in the first book. I can’t explain why. I just hope we get the old Natalie back in the final book.
This book is NOT a standalone novel. You do need to read book 1 first to understand this story. This book picks up right where book 1 ended. So this book won’t make sense if you don’t read Cruel Money first.
This is definitely a trilogy you need to add to your TBR list!!
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April 23, 2019
After reading Cruel Money, I really wasn't sure how Cruel Fortune would play out. Let's just say this author gave us a book I wasn't expecting and didn't know I needed. Cruel Fortune starts off a year after Cruel Money ended and you're in for a ride.
I don't want to give too much away about the plot (that's the hard thing about sequels), but we get to see the Upper East Side like we've never seen it before. Natalie eventually gets sucked back in and the games, lies and vicious webs all come out to play. Friendships aren't always what they seem and neither is a romance. Is there anyone Natalie can really trust?
While her dreams are coming true, her life gets a bit more complicated. After everything with Penn in the first book, she's not sure where she goes from here. Lewis was quite a surprise in this book and while I enjoyed him in the first book as well, he's still a bit mysterious. I would've loved to have read his POV as well, but after thinking about it, I loved that the author didn't do this. It added to the games and trust issues that Natalie is already dealing with.
Cruel Fortune is a roller coaster ride of emotions, friends who aren't really friends, new and old lovers and a world Natalie really doesn't want to be involved in, but just can't seem to get out of. After that ending I really need the third book! I can honestly say after reading this whole thing, I'm still not sure what characters I can trust.
If you're looking for an unique storyline, amazing characters, lots of drama and glamour, definitely pick up these books!! Once you start, you won't be able to put them down! And if you're a fan of K.A. Linde there is a fun cameo you won't want to miss!
I don't want to give too much away about the plot (that's the hard thing about sequels), but we get to see the Upper East Side like we've never seen it before. Natalie eventually gets sucked back in and the games, lies and vicious webs all come out to play. Friendships aren't always what they seem and neither is a romance. Is there anyone Natalie can really trust?
While her dreams are coming true, her life gets a bit more complicated. After everything with Penn in the first book, she's not sure where she goes from here. Lewis was quite a surprise in this book and while I enjoyed him in the first book as well, he's still a bit mysterious. I would've loved to have read his POV as well, but after thinking about it, I loved that the author didn't do this. It added to the games and trust issues that Natalie is already dealing with.
Cruel Fortune is a roller coaster ride of emotions, friends who aren't really friends, new and old lovers and a world Natalie really doesn't want to be involved in, but just can't seem to get out of. After that ending I really need the third book! I can honestly say after reading this whole thing, I'm still not sure what characters I can trust.
If you're looking for an unique storyline, amazing characters, lots of drama and glamour, definitely pick up these books!! Once you start, you won't be able to put them down! And if you're a fan of K.A. Linde there is a fun cameo you won't want to miss!
April 24, 2019
4 stars!
Cruel Fortune brings us back to the cruel world that broke Natalie, only she's not as broken as when she left it a year earlier. Natalie’s dream is finally in her grasp as her newly published debut book hits the best seller lists. She has no desire to go back to NYC where her heart was broken but that’s exactly where she is sent to promote her book. Her plan is to pop in and out before anyone from her past can take notice but once she is there, Natalie realizes that NYC might just be what she needs to help her career.
I love the Cruel Trilogy because we get so much intense, twisted, and angsty deliciousness with every book, and Cruel Fortune has it all. It is fast paced, addictive, and consuming. I was surprised more than once and enthralled with every jaw-dropping turn, and I loved it all!
Every character brings so much to the story and I was totally invested in each of their lives. No matter if the character was “good” or “bad,” I loved their impact on the plot. There are more games, secrets, and lies. More deception, manipulation, and betrayal. This story takes us on an emotional ride that is painful, heartbreaking, and frustrating at times. However, it’s swoony, sexy, sweet, and so freaking good, and with the ups and downs and everything in between, I couldn’t get enough of everything and everyone.
The ending brings another twist and I am so excited to see where the story goes because I want more. More Natalie. More Penn. More Upper East Siders.
Revenge is in the air and I. CAN’T. WAIT!! Cruel Legacy is coming July 16, 2019!!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review*
Cruel Fortune brings us back to the cruel world that broke Natalie, only she's not as broken as when she left it a year earlier. Natalie’s dream is finally in her grasp as her newly published debut book hits the best seller lists. She has no desire to go back to NYC where her heart was broken but that’s exactly where she is sent to promote her book. Her plan is to pop in and out before anyone from her past can take notice but once she is there, Natalie realizes that NYC might just be what she needs to help her career.
I love the Cruel Trilogy because we get so much intense, twisted, and angsty deliciousness with every book, and Cruel Fortune has it all. It is fast paced, addictive, and consuming. I was surprised more than once and enthralled with every jaw-dropping turn, and I loved it all!
Every character brings so much to the story and I was totally invested in each of their lives. No matter if the character was “good” or “bad,” I loved their impact on the plot. There are more games, secrets, and lies. More deception, manipulation, and betrayal. This story takes us on an emotional ride that is painful, heartbreaking, and frustrating at times. However, it’s swoony, sexy, sweet, and so freaking good, and with the ups and downs and everything in between, I couldn’t get enough of everything and everyone.
The ending brings another twist and I am so excited to see where the story goes because I want more. More Natalie. More Penn. More Upper East Siders.
Revenge is in the air and I. CAN’T. WAIT!! Cruel Legacy is coming July 16, 2019!!
*ARC generously provided by the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review*
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