Ruthless Knight (Royal Hearts Academy, #2)
by Ashley Jade
Cole Covington is the golden-armed quarterback adored by everyone yet utterly impervious to charm—until he enlists Sawyer Church, the curvy, sarcastic, Bible‑thumping outsider, as his fake girlfriend. What starts as a calculated ruse soon unravels as both masks and guarded hearts begin to crack under the weight of hidden pain, forging a connection that proves even broken souls can find a way to heal together.
Tropes & Themes
About This Book
At Royal Hearts Academy, Cole Covington is the star quarterback, celebrated for his athletic prowess and charming demeanor. Despite his popularity, Cole harbors deep-seated pain linked to his family's past, which he conceals behind a facade of confidence. Sawyer Church, in contrast, is a curvy, sarcastic, and devout student who often finds herself the target of bullying due to her appearance and faith. Her genuine nature and unwavering self-acceptance set her apart in a school that values conformity.
Their paths cross when Cole proposes a fake relationship with Sawyer to fulfill a personal agenda. What begins as a strategic move soon evolves into a complex bond, as both individuals confront their vulnerabilities and the weight of their hidden traumas. The narrative delves into themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the transformative power of love, set against the backdrop of high school dynamics and personal growth. The story is marked by emotional depth, exploring the intricacies of identity and the challenges of embracing one's true self amidst societal pressures.
What Readers Say
Readers praise the book's emotional depth and character development, noting it as a top must-read of the year. Many commend Ashley Jade's writing for its ability to tackle uncomfortable subjects with new perspectives. Fans highlight the book's raw and emotional storytelling, making readers feel every word. Some readers find the portrayal of heavy topics like bullying and body image issues to be intense and potentially triggering. Ideal for fans of high school enemies-to-lovers romance with a dark twist and angsty feels.
