Summary of Unbidden: Bully High School Romance by Cala Riley

Experience the chaotic romance of 'Unbidden' at Brighton Academy, where love and bullying create an unforgettable high school drama.

Sunday, September 28, 2025

Unbidden: Bully high school romance (Brighton Academy Book 1), written by Cala Riley

Welcome to Brighton Academy, where the only thing more complicated than homework is the high-stakes, dysfunctional world of teenage romance. Unbidden sets the stage for our glamorous yet utterly chaotic high school saga, where bullies and crushes collide in an angst-fueled drama that leaves you questioning if this is truly love or just a really complicated form of harassment.

The story centers around Cora, our somewhat unlucky heroine, who has just transferred to Brighton Academy. In a twist of fate (and clearly questionable decision-making), she finds herself caught between the dizzying heights of teen romance and the murky depths of bully culture. Because, of course, what's high school without a bit of emotional torture, right?

Enter Boden, the quintessential bad boy with a heart of... well, who are we kidding? It's probably just a rock. He's charismatic enough to make Cora's heart flutter, yet his behavior suggests he's rehearsing for a part in an Angsty Teen Fairy Tale Gone Wrong. Boden is not just any bully; he's the bully, the kingpin of misery at Brighton Academy, and he's got his sights set on Cora for all the wrong reasons. Spoiler alert: he's emotionally unavailable and way too into himself.

As the plot thickens faster than a high school cafeteria gravy, Cora finds herself torn between hating Boden for his brutish ways and finding inexplicable attraction in his brooding charisma. Their relationship could best be described as a rollercoaster ride-one minute you're screaming in fear, the next you're throwing your hands in the air like you just don't care.

The secondary characters? Oh boy, they're a wacky ensemble cast that could put even a daytime soap opera to shame. You've got the loyal best friend, the unsuspecting love rival, and enough high school drama to fuel a reality TV show for at least a season. Who knew navigating teenage life could feel like a game of emotional chess, where everyone's a pawn in Boden's brutal game?

Now, let's talk about those moments. You know, the cringe-worthy encounters that somehow become the backbone of every high school romance. Picture a series of misunderstandings, stolen glances, and a whole lot of "Will they, won't they?" that will have your heart racing-and your mind questioning every life choice that led you to this book. It's like watching a train wreck in slow motion; it's terrible, but you just can't look away.

As the climax approaches, you're left wondering whether Cora and Boden will figure out their feelings or if they'll simply spiral into a toxic relationship spiral fueled by mutual misunderstanding. And trust me, the ending isn't your standard fairy tale conclusion. You might want to prepare your heart for a rollercoaster-because feelings, my dear reader, are about to get real messy.

In conclusion, Unbidden is a chaotic, teenager-driven whirlwind of emotions, misunderstandings, and the kind of romance that makes you reconsider your own high school experience. Whether you're rooting for Cora to escape Boden's torment or hoping they find their way to each other, one thing is for sure: the journey is as unpredictable as a prom night date gone wrong. So buckle up, grab your popcorn, and dive into this high school drama that is as witty as it is unpredictable!

Author's photo - Maddie Page
Maddie Page

Classics, bestsellers, and guilty pleasures-none are safe from my sarcastic recaps. I turn heavy reads into lighthearted summaries you can actually enjoy. Warning: may cause random outbursts of laughter while pretending to study literature.

X

You deserve a great discount for this book!

➡️ Unbidden: Bully high school romance (Brighton Academy Book 1)

Please click on button below and check availability!