Warning: This review was entirely written in shrieks of glee that have been loosely translated into something someone might be able to read. TLDR: One of my favorite books of 2022 without a doubt. I know that its only March but I'm calling it. 

Carys is so delightful! She is a brash, loyal, witty, and passionate firecracker with a hidden, lonely layer of brittle hidden by layers of armor. Outrageous outfits and a devil-may-care confidence shield her by creating self-cultivated mini scandals to distract from her secrets. I don't think I can stress it enough; I adore Carys. I'm not sure she could do wrong in my eyes. 

Her favorite hobby, after rescuing all sorts of animals to add to the menagerie, is provoking Tristan. Who could blame her? The cool to Cary's fire, Tristan has an exacting, rigid personality that makes a person want to see what it takes to upend it all. Carys has spent most of her time teasing and attempting to shock Tristan into a reaction throughout the years. I desperately wanted to see his buttoned up self come undone and boy did Bateman deliver. 

Fair warning, this is a mild rivalry not the enemies-to-lovers a reader could expect. Friendly ribbing, inside jokes, and a passion that burns so brightly that I wasn't sure if I was blushing or if I was sunburned. 

I love the "tutor in passion" trope and Tristan's slow, sexy approach was *chef's kiss*. Bateman found that sweet, sweet balance of heartwarming, romantic feelings and delicious white hot lust long buried between rivals.

More positions than just missionary for the win! Post-life or death experience romp outdoors? Yes please.

This is only book two in Ruthless Rivals so far, but I am ready to say that this is my favorite series by Bateman! I adore the Davies - Montgomery rivalry romances. I can't wait to see what Bateman has in store for the rest of the families!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to St. Martin's Press and the author for the review copy!