Bully: 1 (Fall Away)

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This was a game to Madoc- but it was a war to me.
Madoc and Fallon hate to love each other, and love to hate each other. There are a lot of secrets and miscommunications that got them to the point they’re at today. They were essentially torn apart by lies, by their family betraying them in the worst way. Now that some of the secrets are out… will they be able to be together? Just them? No games, no hate, none of the other stuff that was pulling them apart? Or will this rivalry between them stay put? Maddox was lied by his stepmother who is Fallon's biological mother. She also lied to Fallon, her own daughter. She is a despicable character. It was devastating when Maddox gets to know what Fallon went through, that she never lied, that her mother forces her to abort their baby. Jaxon actually found it out and told Maddox, even if he didn't Fallon will eventually tell him.

While I liked this book for the most and was captivated by the author's realistic portrayal of bullying, I must admit, this book left me with mixed feeling. The author dealt with this issue very well. The scene was devastating. When Maddox embraced Fallon and she cried, I felt tears in my eyes. I’m just worn out, K.C. I’d rather go home mad now than in tears later.” I returned my attention to the bowl. Every time I sifted through a pile of keys though, my hands would bring up nothing resembling my set. Fallon: ’’ Madoc was always calm, after all. So calm all the damn time growing up. He didn’t shout or show his anger until he’d had enough. And you never knew exactly when that was going to be. That was the scary part about him.’’.This book also had a lot of deeper issues going on as well. When someone is bullied, how far do they get pushed before they retaliate? And, by doing so, are they not themselves just perpetuating the cycle by becoming a bully themselves? Or is it self-defense? Is it justified? Understandable? Necessary? Completely wrong? Where were the lines drawn? I loved Madoc in Bully. I know he was a bit of an ass, but he had some charisma. I was so excited when I found out the next book would be his. And with his stepsister. Win! I can say honestly, I loved Bully and Until You much better than Rival. I did like this, but there were a few over the top things that made it impossible for me to give it 5 stars. Still, there were things I did really like. Her family life isn't exactly ideal and her mother is downright kaka for coco puffs. Her father is the only solid influence she's had in her life, and I'll admit that I loved reading about their unconventional relationship. Now, because the story was told entirely from Tate's perspective, it was a while before I got to discover what had made Jared turn into a bully which left me plenty of time to wonder at the possibilities...

This book was kind of a soup opera, with so many twist and OMG moments, that you didn't know what connections to make and in which way to go. Jess was vying for captain of the cross-country team this fall, and competing was one experience in high school that I would miss. Anyways, enough gushing on my end. I can see how this wouldn't be for everyone, it's a little bit OTT but it really worked for me. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!I did like seeing Tate grow confidently in herself, even if it did take a while. I like character growth and it was there for me.