Let’s just say I’m a sucker for someone who likes Notre Dame and loves The Offspring’s “Why Don’t You Get A Job?” because I grew up on them! It’s important to be in the mind of both love interests in romance books! I liked reading from Fallon’s POV more than Madoc’s because I related with her, but I like Madoc more as a character. Pen finally wrote from a dual POV perspective! This was the biggest improvement from the first book. Most importantly, Fallon has learned from her past mistakes. She dresses differently, some of her piercings have closed, and she has a better understanding of herself.

We learn that Fallon is a different person than she was a couple years ago. I’m not sure if she was mentioned in Until You, Jared’s novella, because I haven’t read it yet. You learn about his family life, of his family’s legacy at Notre Dame, and a hidden talent of his. While reading this, you learn Madoc is more than just Jared’s best friend. Step-brother Dearest by Penelope Ward ringing any bells? I’m well aware step-sibling relationships seem pretty taboo, but I’ve seen a couple New Adult Romances where the central couple are step-siblings so it’s certainly not a new topic in the genre. Madoc was absolutely in love with Fallon as she was with him. This book IS NOT AS CREEPY AS IT SOUNDS! Madoc and Fallon’s relationship was completely consensual. It’s not my favorite in the series, but I was not disappointed. I know I said the same thing about Bully, but I loved Rival more. A big thank you insomnia because I loved this book so much. I really read this whole book in one sitting. I read this book in three hours! No, I am not bullshitting you.

She just doesn’t want Madoc to know she’s still attracted to him. Fallon knows that Madoc still wants her, but she plays by her own rules. The same house where she used to leave her door open for him at night. She’s been at boarding school after her mother, his stepmother, sent her away after ‘the incident.’ Now, she’s back at the house. It’s been two years since Madoc has seen Fallon. I gave this book 5/5 stars because I devoured this book! CW: Forced Abortion, Cheating, Abusive Parent, Absentee Parent, Step-sibling Relationship. I agree, because you will be confused if you don’t as characters from previous books show up in this book.

It can be read as a stand-alone, but Pen suggests on her website that you should read the series in order. This is the second book in The Fall Away series. Madoc is Jared’s best friend and Fallon is his estranged flame/ step-sister who reconnects with him two years after their relationship ended. Today’s review is on Rival, Madoc and Fallon’s story. Hi guys, it’s time for my review of another Penelope Douglas book! I really was not kidding when I said she’s a new favorite of mine.

Synopsis of bully penelope douglas