Vicious

Vicious ended up being my favorite book of the series. Was he redeemed? Oh, hell no, he is very much the biggest asshole out of the lot. He honestly became my favorite part of every book because he is the only constant in all the books– but I'm getting ahead of myself. 

This book flips back and forth between the present and when Vicious and Mellie were in high school. We know something happened to get Mellie to leave their town and why she'll never forgive him, but it is only slowly given to us in those past moments which are done so, so well. 

Mellie is such a strong and amazing character. She holds her own against the biggest asshole in the world and doesn't just let him get away with everything. She calls him on his bullshit and makes him be and do better... at least for her and her family. 
Vicious' past comes out and just... wow. Can't even hate him (much). 

The thing is... the high school party scenes could be a bit too much. I don't think girls would act the way they do around the Hotholes in real life– it was just such an extreme.

If you're looking for a darker romance – read this one. I don't think it will disappoint you.