What do you think?
Rate this book
PoisonVerse
Ruined Alphas
An omega terrorist. The pack sent to hunt me down. An impossible scent match.
The Alpha Omega Institute branded me a criminal, an agent of The Reset, the beta hate group.
The Institute put a price on my head and sent one of their best after me. He caught me, capturing a part of my soul. I don’t understand what’s happening or how, but the one thing I do know - the only way to keep us both safe is to forget we ever met.
The Reset’s next target is an alpha born into one of the most elite packs in the city. Jackson Serrano is sweet and charming, the kind of alpha any omega would want. The kind of alpha who would never want an omega like me. One fake date to put a tracker on him and they would ruin his life.
The moment we meet, everything changes. And I mean everything. He says we're scent matches. Fated mates. He wants to take me to meet his pack…
Pack… omegas… heat… alphas… all the things I was raised to fear.
Now I’m caught between a desperate hope for a pack I can never have, and the dangerous beta fringe group that wants us all dead.
I am their best weapon to destroy the Institute, but this pack might just be mine.
*****
[Luther's Story - The omega terrorist I was sent to hunt is my scent matched mate... ]
Ruined Alphas is a standalone why choose omegaverse set in the PoisonVerse featuring spicy MMFMM relationships. The story has dark themes involving high control groups, past childhood trauma, terrorism, so please check the content warnings before reading.
The Alpha Omega Institute branded me a criminal, an agent of The Reset, the beta hate group.
The Institute put a price on my head and sent one of their best after me. He caught me, capturing a part of my soul. I don’t understand what’s happening or how, but the one thing I do know - the only way to keep us both safe is to forget we ever met.
The Reset’s next target is an alpha born into one of the most elite packs in the city. Jackson Serrano is sweet and charming, the kind of alpha any omega would want. The kind of alpha who would never want an omega like me. One fake date to put a tracker on him and they would ruin his life.
The moment we meet, everything changes. And I mean everything. He says we're scent matches. Fated mates. He wants to take me to meet his pack…
Pack… omegas… heat… alphas… all the things I was raised to fear.
Now I’m caught between a desperate hope for a pack I can never have, and the dangerous beta fringe group that wants us all dead.
I am their best weapon to destroy the Institute, but this pack might just be mine.
*****
[Luther's Story - The omega terrorist I was sent to hunt is my scent matched mate... ]
Ruined Alphas is a standalone why choose omegaverse set in the PoisonVerse featuring spicy MMFMM relationships. The story has dark themes involving high control groups, past childhood trauma, terrorism, so please check the content warnings before reading.
546 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2023
327 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
Amy Nova
11 books55 followersI write books that bite.
I have always loved smart, sexy, magical fiction…. When a group of witches, vampires, and shifters started hanging out in my brain, I couldn’t say no and had to make them real on paper!
I LOVE morally gray characters.
I LOVE impossible choices.
I LOVE characters who want to burn it all to the ground. Bonus points if it's to save someone they love.
I have always loved smart, sexy, magical fiction…. When a group of witches, vampires, and shifters started hanging out in my brain, I couldn’t say no and had to make them real on paper!
I LOVE morally gray characters.
I LOVE impossible choices.
I LOVE characters who want to burn it all to the ground. Bonus points if it's to save someone they love.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
June 8, 2023
I am really disappointed. The book was okay but in comparison to the whole series....it's a desaster. The only reason why they love Ruby and want her for their pack, is because of the sent match. Their whole relationship is extremely shallow until the last 100 pages.
May 26, 2023
Something about this shared universe just obliterates my emotions every single time. The characters are compelling, flawed, and sometimes outright psychotic (in the best way). The plot isn’t just a filler of fluff in between heat scenes, instead the spicy scenes enhance an already fascinating story. These things hold true with each book - four books and three authors, so far.
The omega FMC in Ruined Alphas has been through some significant trauma for most of her life. She’s strictly in survival mode, although the depth of her experiences takes some time to show through her mask.
I absolutely adore the alphas who make up her scent-matched pack. If you’ve read Havoc’s story, then you may remember the mention of Luther. We get more details about his life since leaving Havoc behind, and the emotional toll that he has been trying to ignore ever since. We also meet Talon, Jackson, and Cross - all have a variety of flaws, trauma, and personalities that are uniquely theirs. The relationship dynamics are complex and challenging and I’m here for it. Two of my favorite tropes are included in this book - grumpy/sunshine and devoted psycho - and they’re done so well!
The way this pack takes care of their omega, even before they know the whole story, just makes my cold heart melt 🫠
The spice is lovely, on the slower side to start with (which makes sense) and once it gets going it’s 😮💨🔥😏
Please, if you like omegaverse stories, please pick this book up. I am biting my nails, waiting for the next book in the Poisonverse world!
The omega FMC in Ruined Alphas has been through some significant trauma for most of her life. She’s strictly in survival mode, although the depth of her experiences takes some time to show through her mask.
I absolutely adore the alphas who make up her scent-matched pack. If you’ve read Havoc’s story, then you may remember the mention of Luther. We get more details about his life since leaving Havoc behind, and the emotional toll that he has been trying to ignore ever since. We also meet Talon, Jackson, and Cross - all have a variety of flaws, trauma, and personalities that are uniquely theirs. The relationship dynamics are complex and challenging and I’m here for it. Two of my favorite tropes are included in this book - grumpy/sunshine and devoted psycho - and they’re done so well!
The way this pack takes care of their omega, even before they know the whole story, just makes my cold heart melt 🫠
The spice is lovely, on the slower side to start with (which makes sense) and once it gets going it’s 😮💨🔥😏
Please, if you like omegaverse stories, please pick this book up. I am biting my nails, waiting for the next book in the Poisonverse world!
June 20, 2023
Compared to the other standalones in this omegaverse world, this book had much better worldbuilding, and I understood where duchesses, seers, gold pack, and omegas stood in this PoisonVerse society. As a bonus, they finally have contacts available for gold pack and seers in this book - it was always confusing to me when the gold pack omegas in the prior books acted like there wasn't any good way to hide their eyes to live like normal betas in secret.
As for the book itself, it wasn't really my cup of tea with the excess trauma bonding. Almost every single person in the harem had some sort of severe trauma that had them shy away from typical alpha-omega bonds. I also had issues with the pacing - it took way too long for the big reveal, and the omega FMC suddenly had a huge flip in personality for the latter half of the book that I felt like I was reading a new character and story completely. Lastly, I thought the M/M in the book was incidental and didn't seem necessary to encourage the alpha pack bonds to begin with.
I'm wishy-washy on whether or not I want to pick up any more books by authors in this shared universe, mostly due to story issues, but it's certainly unique and like nothing I've read before.
Romance:
As for the book itself, it wasn't really my cup of tea with the excess trauma bonding. Almost every single person in the harem had some sort of severe trauma that had them shy away from typical alpha-omega bonds. I also had issues with the pacing - it took way too long for the big reveal, and the omega FMC suddenly had a huge flip in personality for the latter half of the book that I felt like I was reading a new character and story completely. Lastly, I thought the M/M in the book was incidental and didn't seem necessary to encourage the alpha pack bonds to begin with.
I'm wishy-washy on whether or not I want to pick up any more books by authors in this shared universe, mostly due to story issues, but it's certainly unique and like nothing I've read before.
Romance:
May 26, 2023
Ruined Alphas is a novel set in a shared omegaverse. Be advised there are some sensitive subjects in this book that. You should definitely check out the trigger warnings prior to reading it.
You do not have to read the other books in this series. But i would recommend checking out at least Havoc Killed Her Alpha at some point. You will know why when you do *wink*
Ruined Alphas is a why choose( MMFMM), omegaverse romance with darker themes. Ruby is our FMC and she is a much stronger person than I could ever be due to the way she was raised and the things she goes through.
I really enjoyed all of the individual MMCs. I enjoyed seeing them all individually and learning their backstories.
I also believe that seeing their individual growth, both MMCs and FMC, was fantastic. I felt sympathetic toward each one and their individual occurrences that lead them to be how they are and their path to reach their HEA in the end.
I will definitely be reading all of Amy Nova’s books that she has in her backlog and that she brings out in the future!
You do not have to read the other books in this series. But i would recommend checking out at least Havoc Killed Her Alpha at some point. You will know why when you do *wink*
Ruined Alphas is a why choose( MMFMM), omegaverse romance with darker themes. Ruby is our FMC and she is a much stronger person than I could ever be due to the way she was raised and the things she goes through.
I really enjoyed all of the individual MMCs. I enjoyed seeing them all individually and learning their backstories.
I also believe that seeing their individual growth, both MMCs and FMC, was fantastic. I felt sympathetic toward each one and their individual occurrences that lead them to be how they are and their path to reach their HEA in the end.
I will definitely be reading all of Amy Nova’s books that she has in her backlog and that she brings out in the future!
June 7, 2024
Other than saying how much I love Jacksons ruthlessness when it comes to building the pack and not taking no for an answer, I can't say much about this book that I haven't already for the other poisonverse books.
I love them so much, and this horrible, wonderful world that's been built. Something about reading every bad thing they go through and finding peace eventually is so cathartic. They're getting their messy sh*t together, so maybe I can too.
But I do have one tiny bone to pick when it comes to all the related characters across the poisonverse not getting ANY reunion. Not even a little one. Like, come ON!!! Everyone is doing so much better. Can we just schedule a little meet-up to ease some souls here!?! Poor Luther!
Anyway, more poisonverse, please, and thank you!!
I love them so much, and this horrible, wonderful world that's been built. Something about reading every bad thing they go through and finding peace eventually is so cathartic. They're getting their messy sh*t together, so maybe I can too.
But I do have one tiny bone to pick when it comes to all the related characters across the poisonverse not getting ANY reunion. Not even a little one. Like, come ON!!! Everyone is doing so much better. Can we just schedule a little meet-up to ease some souls here!?! Poor Luther!
Anyway, more poisonverse, please, and thank you!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2023
Yet again, PoisonVerse keeps sucking me in and I am so here for it!
Ugh, the emotions this book made me feel! I don't even know where to begin. I enjoyed every minute of this story. This book was so well done that I wanted to devour it in one sitting. Sadly, I had to restrict myself to reading it in segments because I'm an adult with daily responsibilities and obligations. That being said, I did read this every spare moment I got and finished within 2 days.
The Serrano Pack are contracted by a government type agency to track down Ruin Winters, a known terrorist who uses her social media platform to encourage disorder and the destruction of the alpha/omega governing body. Ruin is actually Ruby Frost, an omega and foster child who was born into a pro beta - anti alpha/omega part of town. She is misguided and abused by a group called the Reset who use her for their own propaganda to push their pro Beta lifestyle. She is just surviving at this point and cannot see a way out of her horrible life until her chance encounter with her scent match pack. Unfortunate circumstances push them together where they have to work through their difficulties and maneuver around outside situations. The pack's past trauma and dangerous jobs make them initially resist the idea of having an omega. There are secrets, learning curves, lots of emotions and pasts which make a major decision of adding to the pack even harder.
I love reading Omegaverses where the omega doesn't quite know how to be an omega. Ruby has to relearn how to truly be what she is because she grew up in an abusive cult-like foster home where they degraded her status as an omega. She isn't the skilled bad@ss with quick wit whose knowledgeable on all subjects that pop up throughout the story, like what some would typically think of as strong. Don't get me wrong, "Ruin" can hold her own but her strength really comes from how she deals with and survives what life has thrown at her. Her compassion, selflessness, kindness...strengths all in their own right are what sets her apart from the "typical" strong lead. Also, the bravery she shows with how she pushes out of her comfort zone and works through her feelings and fears which are so valid. I can't express how much I relate with Ruby with her inner monologue. I think anyone, especially those with anxiety and/or past trauma/abuse, will sympathize with her inward and outward struggles throughout the story. It can be frustratingly hard for people to voice what they are feeling because of fear of how they will be perceived. Her growth is so immense that you can't help but cheer her on every step of the way. Ruby is an amazingly strong character and I absolutely adore her.
The pack was incredibly sweet with how they helped her through her trauma. They were oh so gentle and considerate, really taking the time to try and handle every interaction with the utmost care as to not upset her anymore than she already was. Trying their best to anticipate her needs and interact appropriately as to not set her off or trigger her in anyway. Her feelings were so validated by them it was heartwarming to read. I would say this was more of a dark read but gosh, if it wasn’t full of such sweet and tender moments.
The way the relationships evolve, the situations and the character development are all executed with such care they truly feel believable. Yes, I know it's fiction. Not everything needs to make sense or seem real but sometimes it's just nice to read something realistic within a fantasy world. The love they already have for each other builds at a such a gradual pace, you can feel the emotions coming off the page as you read. Love conquers all obstacles and after this whirlwind of a story it was so satisfying to see them all in a place of happiness together.
My only complaint (which really isn't a big one) has to do with Luther. POSSIBLE SPOILERS: I'm sad he didn't get a reunion with Havoc and he didn't bite Ruby. I'm hoping maybe these two things will be addressed in possible bonus material. Fingers crossed.
This addition to the PoisonVerse world features a new author, both for myself and the series. I'm loving the different styles of writing and takes on this fun omegaverse world. Patiently waiting for the next installment.
*I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Ugh, the emotions this book made me feel! I don't even know where to begin. I enjoyed every minute of this story. This book was so well done that I wanted to devour it in one sitting. Sadly, I had to restrict myself to reading it in segments because I'm an adult with daily responsibilities and obligations. That being said, I did read this every spare moment I got and finished within 2 days.
The Serrano Pack are contracted by a government type agency to track down Ruin Winters, a known terrorist who uses her social media platform to encourage disorder and the destruction of the alpha/omega governing body. Ruin is actually Ruby Frost, an omega and foster child who was born into a pro beta - anti alpha/omega part of town. She is misguided and abused by a group called the Reset who use her for their own propaganda to push their pro Beta lifestyle. She is just surviving at this point and cannot see a way out of her horrible life until her chance encounter with her scent match pack. Unfortunate circumstances push them together where they have to work through their difficulties and maneuver around outside situations. The pack's past trauma and dangerous jobs make them initially resist the idea of having an omega. There are secrets, learning curves, lots of emotions and pasts which make a major decision of adding to the pack even harder.
I love reading Omegaverses where the omega doesn't quite know how to be an omega. Ruby has to relearn how to truly be what she is because she grew up in an abusive cult-like foster home where they degraded her status as an omega. She isn't the skilled bad@ss with quick wit whose knowledgeable on all subjects that pop up throughout the story, like what some would typically think of as strong. Don't get me wrong, "Ruin" can hold her own but her strength really comes from how she deals with and survives what life has thrown at her. Her compassion, selflessness, kindness...strengths all in their own right are what sets her apart from the "typical" strong lead. Also, the bravery she shows with how she pushes out of her comfort zone and works through her feelings and fears which are so valid. I can't express how much I relate with Ruby with her inner monologue. I think anyone, especially those with anxiety and/or past trauma/abuse, will sympathize with her inward and outward struggles throughout the story. It can be frustratingly hard for people to voice what they are feeling because of fear of how they will be perceived. Her growth is so immense that you can't help but cheer her on every step of the way. Ruby is an amazingly strong character and I absolutely adore her.
The pack was incredibly sweet with how they helped her through her trauma. They were oh so gentle and considerate, really taking the time to try and handle every interaction with the utmost care as to not upset her anymore than she already was. Trying their best to anticipate her needs and interact appropriately as to not set her off or trigger her in anyway. Her feelings were so validated by them it was heartwarming to read. I would say this was more of a dark read but gosh, if it wasn’t full of such sweet and tender moments.
The way the relationships evolve, the situations and the character development are all executed with such care they truly feel believable. Yes, I know it's fiction. Not everything needs to make sense or seem real but sometimes it's just nice to read something realistic within a fantasy world. The love they already have for each other builds at a such a gradual pace, you can feel the emotions coming off the page as you read. Love conquers all obstacles and after this whirlwind of a story it was so satisfying to see them all in a place of happiness together.
My only complaint (which really isn't a big one) has to do with Luther. POSSIBLE SPOILERS: I'm sad he didn't get a reunion with Havoc and he didn't bite Ruby. I'm hoping maybe these two things will be addressed in possible bonus material. Fingers crossed.
This addition to the PoisonVerse world features a new author, both for myself and the series. I'm loving the different styles of writing and takes on this fun omegaverse world. Patiently waiting for the next installment.
*I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
June 7, 2023
4 ⭐️ Steam: 3.5/5. Strong Language: 2/5. Characters: 4/5. Plot: 4/5
Content Warning: V!olence, A$$ault, $exual A$$ault (not by main character), Child Abu$e, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Mass Casualty Event, Mu£der, Domestic V!olence (not by main character)
Ruined Alphas is a standalone human Omegaverse romance. It is book four of the Poisonverse series. For reference, this is the first book in that series that I have read and I understood the story and world completely. Their is great detail to the world building and previous world characters are mentioned. If that matters to you, you may want to read those books first.
I’m going to keep this review deliberately vague to avoid spoilers. (I avoid those at all cost). Our heroine is the victim of a lifetime of abu$e for the simple fact that she was born an Omega in the wrong part of the world. She may be beaten & battered but she hasn’t broken yet. Inside of her is a spark waiting to burst into flame.
The heroes of our story are equally damaged in their own way. Whether through tr@uma, abu$e, or neglect, life has taken its toll on these Alphas. They are an elite four man military response team that eliminates threats (namely rogue Alphas and dangerous Omegas) from society.
When their paths cross the meeting goes anything but smoothly. Bonds are tested, loyalties divided, and threats ensue.
Content Warning: V!olence, A$$ault, $exual A$$ault (not by main character), Child Abu$e, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Mass Casualty Event, Mu£der, Domestic V!olence (not by main character)
Ruined Alphas is a standalone human Omegaverse romance. It is book four of the Poisonverse series. For reference, this is the first book in that series that I have read and I understood the story and world completely. Their is great detail to the world building and previous world characters are mentioned. If that matters to you, you may want to read those books first.
I’m going to keep this review deliberately vague to avoid spoilers. (I avoid those at all cost). Our heroine is the victim of a lifetime of abu$e for the simple fact that she was born an Omega in the wrong part of the world. She may be beaten & battered but she hasn’t broken yet. Inside of her is a spark waiting to burst into flame.
The heroes of our story are equally damaged in their own way. Whether through tr@uma, abu$e, or neglect, life has taken its toll on these Alphas. They are an elite four man military response team that eliminates threats (namely rogue Alphas and dangerous Omegas) from society.
When their paths cross the meeting goes anything but smoothly. Bonds are tested, loyalties divided, and threats ensue.
Read
August 26, 2023DNF 40%. So this was alright. Kind of had some cool aspects to the story and plot line. But this book had an element that rubs me soooo wrong. It showed up a little in the last book I read in this universe but it wasn’t enough for me to put the book down that wasn’t the case here. I can’t stand when people (purposefully or non purposefully) act WAY out of character. It grates on me so hard. In this book the MFC has a separate persona and she pulls that around her when she needs. Seems totally innocuous - but for some reason, I can’t stand it. It was too much for me in this book to keep reading.
June 6, 2023
This was my first taste of the PoisonVerse books, and I'm not mad about it. I was captured from the beginning. It took me a minute to figure out the entire dynamic of the pack, but it was smooth sailing from there. Amy Nova did a great job with this book!
June 23, 2023
brings the angst!!
5/5 on my angst-o-meter
Spicy but slow burn… a little too slow
Also very thankful that not all is as it appears with Ruin Winters… I didn’t want to root for a villain!
5/5 on my angst-o-meter
Spicy but slow burn… a little too slow
Also very thankful that not all is as it appears with Ruin Winters… I didn’t want to root for a villain!
June 8, 2023
BIG fan of this addition to the poisonverse. I felt like the trauma was handled really well and the pack was 🤩
June 9, 2023
The spicy scenes are spicing, but they are really a very small part of the story.
This particular series is very character and trauma bonding driven.
This particular series is very character and trauma bonding driven.
June 9, 2023
4.25 I really enjoy this shared world! The authors have really done an amazing job. Looking forward to more!
October 17, 2023
Honestly great. I was hooked from the beginning - I just want more!
June 8, 2023
The multi-author series Poisonverse continues with Amy Nova's Ruined Alphas. This is my first read by Amy so I didn’t know what to expect and I'm glad I didn't. This book sorta knocked me off my feet with the drama, angst, excitement, and all the feels.
Ruin/Ruby (Ruin being the personal forced upon her) just about broke my heart. Grew up in the foster care system surrounded by betas who had all the wrong ideas about Alphas, omegas, and packs. When she revealed the abuse that she suffered was unreal, made to hate herself and fear what was supposed to be instinct. Ruin suffered trauma after trauma, nothing but abuse even as an adult. Brainwashed to believe the lies of the beta extreme group, Reset. I saw the flags in her behavior and knew it was so fracking bad but when the guys finally pieced everything together all at once, I was in tears. The horror that she has to survive every second of every day is beyond devastating.
The pack is made up of Talon, Jackson, Luther, and Cross. Talon, Luther, and Cross all come from harsh backgrounds and have a lot of past trauma that centers around omegas which of course made them stubborn, grumpy, and a pain in the butt. Meanwhile, Jackson is a rich golden boy, how does he fit in you ask, Jackson is a bright spark of life, a happy bully that is a little bit psycho about getting who he wants. The guys are actually pretty good people Talon is lead, a protector, and has a dom thing going for him. Luther who is the biggest out of all of them is a real softie, Cross is angry, sad, and closed off. And miraculously it's Jackson who is the (I can't believe I'm saying this) emotionally intelligent one. He knows what the pack needs and refuses to give in until he gets it.
Holy plot twist. This is genius-level stuff. There's the political stuff that focuses on the beta extremist group Reset and all of their crazy tactics, they seem to escalate throughout the story, from hate rhetoric to bombings. The group can't comprehend what alphas, omegas, and packs are in general so they chose to hate what they don't understand. Slowly readers get to know about each of the main characters' pasts, little tidbits here and there so you can't really put it together. Then after a few shocking events everything is pulled together to show the overall story, everything is connected, and it's genius.
Ruined Alphas was a great read with a unique and unexpected plot that I could help but dive into. True I was emotionally traumatized for a good portion of this book but it was worth it. Ruby was able to find her strength and her alphas were able to move past their own past traumas to form a future they all deserved.
Ruin/Ruby (Ruin being the personal forced upon her) just about broke my heart. Grew up in the foster care system surrounded by betas who had all the wrong ideas about Alphas, omegas, and packs. When she revealed the abuse that she suffered was unreal, made to hate herself and fear what was supposed to be instinct. Ruin suffered trauma after trauma, nothing but abuse even as an adult. Brainwashed to believe the lies of the beta extreme group, Reset. I saw the flags in her behavior and knew it was so fracking bad but when the guys finally pieced everything together all at once, I was in tears. The horror that she has to survive every second of every day is beyond devastating.
The pack is made up of Talon, Jackson, Luther, and Cross. Talon, Luther, and Cross all come from harsh backgrounds and have a lot of past trauma that centers around omegas which of course made them stubborn, grumpy, and a pain in the butt. Meanwhile, Jackson is a rich golden boy, how does he fit in you ask, Jackson is a bright spark of life, a happy bully that is a little bit psycho about getting who he wants. The guys are actually pretty good people Talon is lead, a protector, and has a dom thing going for him. Luther who is the biggest out of all of them is a real softie, Cross is angry, sad, and closed off. And miraculously it's Jackson who is the (I can't believe I'm saying this) emotionally intelligent one. He knows what the pack needs and refuses to give in until he gets it.
Holy plot twist. This is genius-level stuff. There's the political stuff that focuses on the beta extremist group Reset and all of their crazy tactics, they seem to escalate throughout the story, from hate rhetoric to bombings. The group can't comprehend what alphas, omegas, and packs are in general so they chose to hate what they don't understand. Slowly readers get to know about each of the main characters' pasts, little tidbits here and there so you can't really put it together. Then after a few shocking events everything is pulled together to show the overall story, everything is connected, and it's genius.
Ruined Alphas was a great read with a unique and unexpected plot that I could help but dive into. True I was emotionally traumatized for a good portion of this book but it was worth it. Ruby was able to find her strength and her alphas were able to move past their own past traumas to form a future they all deserved.
June 1, 2023
So to start this off, I downloaded an ARC of this book off of TikTok without realizing it was well into an established series. This book is technically a standalone, but reading at least the first book in the series would be helpful. There was some background that I felt like I was missing, and some pieces of the world this takes place in that I didn’t quite get. It made it a little challenging to get into the book, but that’s on me and has not factored into my overall rating.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. It’s a much darker universe than my usual omega reads, so definitely check out the trigger warnings listed at the beginning of the book. The story follows Ruby/Ruin, an omega who has had her fair share of trauma, and a pack of four alphas, Talon, Jackson, Luther, and Cross. Ruby/Ruin’s journey of self-acceptance and self-discovery after her traumatic upbringing brings her in contact with her pack, all of whom have some issues of their own to work through. It took me a little bit to get everyone and their backstory straight, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on having this as a casual read.
The story felt fully fleshed out and engaging, and the characters were well-written. All five main characters developed naturally throughout the book, learning more about themselves and their wants/needs, as well as what it meant to them to be a pack. This got me in the feels several times, and I’m so happy that they got their happily ever after in the end.
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot. It’s a much darker universe than my usual omega reads, so definitely check out the trigger warnings listed at the beginning of the book. The story follows Ruby/Ruin, an omega who has had her fair share of trauma, and a pack of four alphas, Talon, Jackson, Luther, and Cross. Ruby/Ruin’s journey of self-acceptance and self-discovery after her traumatic upbringing brings her in contact with her pack, all of whom have some issues of their own to work through. It took me a little bit to get everyone and their backstory straight, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on having this as a casual read.
The story felt fully fleshed out and engaging, and the characters were well-written. All five main characters developed naturally throughout the book, learning more about themselves and their wants/needs, as well as what it meant to them to be a pack. This got me in the feels several times, and I’m so happy that they got their happily ever after in the end.
June 3, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Be warned: This is not a light, fluffy read- the FMC endures abuse (emotional and physical) at the hands of a foster parent and others. Please read responsibly - if you are unable to handle the abuse, please refrain for your mental health.
This book was awesome and full of so many emotions, struggles, secrets, and healing. The spice is a slow burn, with insta-love, but also a denial of the attraction from certain parties. You will find yourself wavering between wanting to hit someone one second, then smothering them with love. It sometimes gave me whiplash lol. As I said, lots of emotions and angst, but also growth and development of all the characters, especially with the intro of Ruby to the pack.
Ruby is adorable and sweet and you will love her from the onset. She has endured so much but is still so innocent in many ways.
A beautiful story with dark moments and some laughs. A blend of different characters that you grow to love as they work through their darkness and secrets to truly find each other, and their eventual HEA. As mentioned the spice is a slow burn, but when the spice heats up in the latter part of the book, they burn for each other - MM in the pack.
The only negative for me was Havoc and Luther - I would have loved a reunion.
Be warned: This is not a light, fluffy read- the FMC endures abuse (emotional and physical) at the hands of a foster parent and others. Please read responsibly - if you are unable to handle the abuse, please refrain for your mental health.
This book was awesome and full of so many emotions, struggles, secrets, and healing. The spice is a slow burn, with insta-love, but also a denial of the attraction from certain parties. You will find yourself wavering between wanting to hit someone one second, then smothering them with love. It sometimes gave me whiplash lol. As I said, lots of emotions and angst, but also growth and development of all the characters, especially with the intro of Ruby to the pack.
Ruby is adorable and sweet and you will love her from the onset. She has endured so much but is still so innocent in many ways.
A beautiful story with dark moments and some laughs. A blend of different characters that you grow to love as they work through their darkness and secrets to truly find each other, and their eventual HEA. As mentioned the spice is a slow burn, but when the spice heats up in the latter part of the book, they burn for each other - MM in the pack.
The only negative for me was Havoc and Luther - I would have loved a reunion.
June 5, 2023
Ruin Winters is an omega terrorist working with the Reset, a beta-terrorist group. They are determined to destroy the Institute. Packmates Talon, Jackson, Cross, and Luther are the best unit from the Gold Pack and Rogue Enforcement and are sent to put a stop to Ruin. The unexpected happens when Luther realizes they are scent matched. But things with Ruin may not be all that it seems. She doesn't understand her omega side due to her upbringing and the pack all have their own trauma to deal with. They still have a job to do though and need to destroy the Reset before Ruin destroys them.
One thing that I love about the poisonverse is how all the characters can just suck you in. They are compelling and complicated, all just trying to survive. This book is no exception. It always brings me such joy to see people fight for each other and strive to be better for love. And this being Luther's story I was oh so happy for him to get his HEA. Although now I need the siblings reunited. I enjoyed watching Ruin/Ruby shake that facade and embrace herself. The pack helping her blossom was really sweet and honestly cannot wait to see more of them in the novella, if there is one. Please let there be one.
Rating 4 stars
*I received a review copy from the author for my voluntary and honest review.
One thing that I love about the poisonverse is how all the characters can just suck you in. They are compelling and complicated, all just trying to survive. This book is no exception. It always brings me such joy to see people fight for each other and strive to be better for love. And this being Luther's story I was oh so happy for him to get his HEA. Although now I need the siblings reunited. I enjoyed watching Ruin/Ruby shake that facade and embrace herself. The pack helping her blossom was really sweet and honestly cannot wait to see more of them in the novella, if there is one. Please let there be one.
Rating 4 stars
*I received a review copy from the author for my voluntary and honest review.
September 16, 2024
This is an OV standalone but part of a multi-authors PoisenVerse Universe series. Although this can be read as a standalone, it enhances the reading pleasure if you follow all the books in this Universe. Little nuggets are left in each book to make you want to follow along and read the other stories.
Slow burn, very slow. A bit bumpy in the beginning. I wasn’t sure about this style of writing. It felt very choppy and left me little confused, as if there were too many characters and details missing, even though I’m up to date in this series. About 50% in, the words started to sync (not sink, although that could work too, lol) for me.
It ended up being a really fab story. OV is my guilty pleasure. The only thing I’m not down with is the fact that some of the authors in this series leaves you wanting for more (I’m sure that’s on purpose 😤). I had to follow this author on Ream to get the follow up story on the pack! Ughh another app to follow authors and books 🤦🏻♀️😭.
My heart broke for Ruby. What she endured and the trauma she had to wade through to try and learn who she is and how to be an Omega is heartbreaking. The rest of the pack has their own trauma. OV is all about each pack-mate unpacking (no pun intended lol) their issues and trying to make their bond cohesive.
Reading their hot mess and bumbling through it all makes for an emotional ride.
Slow burn, very slow. A bit bumpy in the beginning. I wasn’t sure about this style of writing. It felt very choppy and left me little confused, as if there were too many characters and details missing, even though I’m up to date in this series. About 50% in, the words started to sync (not sink, although that could work too, lol) for me.
It ended up being a really fab story. OV is my guilty pleasure. The only thing I’m not down with is the fact that some of the authors in this series leaves you wanting for more (I’m sure that’s on purpose 😤). I had to follow this author on Ream to get the follow up story on the pack! Ughh another app to follow authors and books 🤦🏻♀️😭.
My heart broke for Ruby. What she endured and the trauma she had to wade through to try and learn who she is and how to be an Omega is heartbreaking. The rest of the pack has their own trauma. OV is all about each pack-mate unpacking (no pun intended lol) their issues and trying to make their bond cohesive.
Reading their hot mess and bumbling through it all makes for an emotional ride.
May 28, 2023
This story is LONG, and complicated, with quintuple POV (four male alphas and one female omega), well written, and the trigger warnings are entirely accurate. Set in a shared world, it stands alone but will be enhanced by having read Havoc Killed Her Alpha. As with the other stories in this world, trauma and trauma recovery features heavily as part of the characters’ development, with four of the five main characters carrying significant personal history that strongly influences their actions and choices. This story was slowburn on the intimacy front, and it definitely needed to be, but was erotic and engaging when the characters made it there. I found Ruby a strong, amazingly resilient character, and appreciated the hesitation with which she approached the unfamiliar. I adored Luther’s care for her and his facilitation of her engagement with the world. I enjoyed Cross’ caretaking, Talon’s dominance and careful moderation of that, and Jackson’s cheerful ruthlessness that bound the pack together. I’m waiting impatiently for the bonus scene(s) because, after the trauma and the recovery and hard work the characters have put into healing, I want to see them enjoying themselves!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
August 23, 2023
I don't understand how some books get such high ratings. This is one of those times.
Ruby's character is all over the place, which can be explained by the cognitive dissonance she suffers from after a lifetime of brainwashing. I get that, I really do. BUT it goes beyond the overarching stuff about whether omegas and alphas are bad/dangerous and encompasses pretty much everything. Every action and thought of hers are contradictory to the point where I didn't want to read her interiority anymore. Her actions are always opposite of her interior dialogue.
The issue with her being all over the place in action and thought is that, as a reader, I never found my footing with her character. All of her chapters feel jumbled and kind of pointless. I couldn't get a true sense of who she was and therefore couldn't connect with her or care about what happened to her.
This jumbled storytelling extends to the other characters as well, in terms of their relationships. Talon and Jackson are pretty clear cut, but where the rest of them stand in the grand scheme of things is murky at best. Not to mention that the only connection they seem to have with Ruby is her scent. Everything pretty much boils down to biology.
Which is NOT ROMANCE. There's an actual difference.
DNF.
Ruby's character is all over the place, which can be explained by the cognitive dissonance she suffers from after a lifetime of brainwashing. I get that, I really do. BUT it goes beyond the overarching stuff about whether omegas and alphas are bad/dangerous and encompasses pretty much everything. Every action and thought of hers are contradictory to the point where I didn't want to read her interiority anymore. Her actions are always opposite of her interior dialogue.
The issue with her being all over the place in action and thought is that, as a reader, I never found my footing with her character. All of her chapters feel jumbled and kind of pointless. I couldn't get a true sense of who she was and therefore couldn't connect with her or care about what happened to her.
This jumbled storytelling extends to the other characters as well, in terms of their relationships. Talon and Jackson are pretty clear cut, but where the rest of them stand in the grand scheme of things is murky at best. Not to mention that the only connection they seem to have with Ruby is her scent. Everything pretty much boils down to biology.
Which is NOT ROMANCE. There's an actual difference.
DNF.
August 15, 2024
This was a great standalone in the PoisonVerse universe. The characters were compelling, the plot was intriguing, and I LOVED all the Easter eggs referencing the other books! I devoured the book in a handful of hours because I got so engrossed in the story.
Ruby was an interesting character to follow. She reminded me a little of Havoc with how little she understood of the omega world. I liked watching her figure out what she wanted and becoming more confident in her alphas. The story was a bit of a slow burn, but that made sense with everything happening in the plot. We also had a lot to learn about every alpha to understand their part in the pack. Every character had a lot of trauma to deal with throughout the book and it was interesting to read how they healed separately and as a pack.
My favorite character out of the alphas was Cross. I didn't love him at first but I really enjoyed his caregiving tendencies and how he opened up throughout the book. It doesn't hurt that he has tattoos, of course! I also liked Jackson. I always enjoy a brat, even more when it's a bratty Alpha instead of an omega.
Amy's writing is a bit different from Marie Mackay and I loved seeing how they both describe the world using their own styles. I look forward to what comes next!
Ruby was an interesting character to follow. She reminded me a little of Havoc with how little she understood of the omega world. I liked watching her figure out what she wanted and becoming more confident in her alphas. The story was a bit of a slow burn, but that made sense with everything happening in the plot. We also had a lot to learn about every alpha to understand their part in the pack. Every character had a lot of trauma to deal with throughout the book and it was interesting to read how they healed separately and as a pack.
My favorite character out of the alphas was Cross. I didn't love him at first but I really enjoyed his caregiving tendencies and how he opened up throughout the book. It doesn't hurt that he has tattoos, of course! I also liked Jackson. I always enjoy a brat, even more when it's a bratty Alpha instead of an omega.
Amy's writing is a bit different from Marie Mackay and I loved seeing how they both describe the world using their own styles. I look forward to what comes next!
July 28, 2025
I was in the mood for an Omegaverse read, so decided to try this one by Amy Nova. (I’d read other PoisonVerse novels by Marie Mackay. Love, love, LOVED her Sweetheart Duet.) This one just never took off for me. The plot was kind of basic: used and abused omega (Ruby, aka Ruin) runs from her captors into the arms of her scent-matched alphas who must deal with their own traumatic pasts to open their hearts to Ruby, who must in turn heal herself to accept their love.
Besides the characters being pretty basic, there just wasn’t enough dramatic tension to sink my teeth into. Nonetheless, I slogged through the 500+ pages moderately entertained, but wishing for more dialogue in order to get to know these characters better.
That said, I just discovered that Lola Rock has a new book out called Red Ruin—not Omegaverse like her others, this new one is Guideverse (??), but also polyamorous (MFM) and Katie May has a newly released Omegaverse book, Knot What She Seems. (I loved her four-book Fae Revealed series as well as the first two books released so far in her Mated by Fire series; her “Blindly” duet may be my favorite, though.)
Can’t wait to dig into these two new books by two of my favorite authors.
Besides the characters being pretty basic, there just wasn’t enough dramatic tension to sink my teeth into. Nonetheless, I slogged through the 500+ pages moderately entertained, but wishing for more dialogue in order to get to know these characters better.
That said, I just discovered that Lola Rock has a new book out called Red Ruin—not Omegaverse like her others, this new one is Guideverse (??), but also polyamorous (MFM) and Katie May has a newly released Omegaverse book, Knot What She Seems. (I loved her four-book Fae Revealed series as well as the first two books released so far in her Mated by Fire series; her “Blindly” duet may be my favorite, though.)
Can’t wait to dig into these two new books by two of my favorite authors.
June 20, 2023
The Reset is a beta terrorist group and Omega Ruin Winters is the face for their propaganda. She's a wanted terrorist. It’s a lie. Ruin, or Ruby, has been tortured, brainwashed, and manipulated into this role since she was a young girl. She’s a scared, abused, lonely girl with no control. When her latest assigned mark turns out to be her scent match, she can’t resist meeting his pack. It’s her one chance to see the life she could have, should have had if she had been allowed to live as Ruby. Even though the other members of the pack claim not to want her and she knows she can’t stay with them because of the danger she would bring, they can’t let her go any more than she can walk away. Until The Reset has one of the pack. She returns then, hoping to find a way to keep the pack safe. Because somewhere along the way, Ruby started to dream of life with the pack and she won’t let the monsters who broke her, destroy them.
This is my first time reading Amy Nova and I would like to offer my appreciation for her handling of Ruby’s abuse and the lasting damage. First, if you have triggers, please read the warning. Ruby is physically, sexually, and emotionally abused. She is tortured, brainwashed, manipulated, deprived, and held captive. There is nothing gratuitous; it’s all story-driven but it is substantial. Her trauma response is legit and the fact she doesn’t recover immediately after meeting her pack is handled perfectly. I work for a BH Center with torture survivors. Trauma is life-long. Some people never recover and some recover in a way that society may not recognize. In fiction, many abuse victims recover within a few pages, and this is not realistic. Ms. Nova handled the trauma with seriousness and respect.
This book was a wonderful character study. Ruby was an Omega who had no idea how to be an Omega and had been taught lies about Alphas, so she believed they were dangerous and cruel. The Alphas each had damage or baggage that complicated the pack dynamics even more. With the characters, there was almost no need for a story. However, it was a well-done story of prejudices, hatred, politics, and pack. The complexities made for a wonderful addition to the Poisonverse Universe.
This is my first time reading Amy Nova and I would like to offer my appreciation for her handling of Ruby’s abuse and the lasting damage. First, if you have triggers, please read the warning. Ruby is physically, sexually, and emotionally abused. She is tortured, brainwashed, manipulated, deprived, and held captive. There is nothing gratuitous; it’s all story-driven but it is substantial. Her trauma response is legit and the fact she doesn’t recover immediately after meeting her pack is handled perfectly. I work for a BH Center with torture survivors. Trauma is life-long. Some people never recover and some recover in a way that society may not recognize. In fiction, many abuse victims recover within a few pages, and this is not realistic. Ms. Nova handled the trauma with seriousness and respect.
This book was a wonderful character study. Ruby was an Omega who had no idea how to be an Omega and had been taught lies about Alphas, so she believed they were dangerous and cruel. The Alphas each had damage or baggage that complicated the pack dynamics even more. With the characters, there was almost no need for a story. However, it was a well-done story of prejudices, hatred, politics, and pack. The complexities made for a wonderful addition to the Poisonverse Universe.
October 29, 2023
The whole Poisonverse series is intense, and it's one of those series that has multiple authors, and even though they play off one another, they can be read out of order. I picked up this book randomly, and it was perfect and dark, but there were things here and there that I needed some clarification on. I chalked it up to this being the fourth book in the series.
I loved how the mistaken identity worked in this one because it was intense, and it was crazy. I just had yet to find out who was going to find out first and what was going to happen once they did. I really loved Ruby. She's been through so much, but she never stopped fighting. But like I said, this book was dark, and it was heavy. I have read one other book in the series so far, and it does follow the same theme. It's not one that I feel like I could read back to back without needing a break because it seems like all the books go to a super dark place, and they're just heavy.
I loved how the mistaken identity worked in this one because it was intense, and it was crazy. I just had yet to find out who was going to find out first and what was going to happen once they did. I really loved Ruby. She's been through so much, but she never stopped fighting. But like I said, this book was dark, and it was heavy. I have read one other book in the series so far, and it does follow the same theme. It's not one that I feel like I could read back to back without needing a break because it seems like all the books go to a super dark place, and they're just heavy.
June 6, 2023
Rising From The Ruins
I can’t get enough of these Poisonverse stories!!! If you don’t mind making your way through the dark, then finally finding the light in this story will be just as sweet for you as it is for the characters you’ll fall in love with. Ruin/Ruby will break your heart with her story, but have no fear, her pack works hard (eventually 😉) to give her strength & help put her back together. The amount of brainwashing this poor omega went through is just infuriating, and it doesn’t take long to realize that things are not what they seem. From the very 1st chapter, this story will take you on a journey full of so many twists & turns. It’s packed with action, danger, heat, passion, and most of all, an all consuming love that Ruby will fight for. Absolutely loved seeing Havoc’s brother, Luther, find his HEA. I can’t wait for more stories in this series ❤️
I can’t get enough of these Poisonverse stories!!! If you don’t mind making your way through the dark, then finally finding the light in this story will be just as sweet for you as it is for the characters you’ll fall in love with. Ruin/Ruby will break your heart with her story, but have no fear, her pack works hard (eventually 😉) to give her strength & help put her back together. The amount of brainwashing this poor omega went through is just infuriating, and it doesn’t take long to realize that things are not what they seem. From the very 1st chapter, this story will take you on a journey full of so many twists & turns. It’s packed with action, danger, heat, passion, and most of all, an all consuming love that Ruby will fight for. Absolutely loved seeing Havoc’s brother, Luther, find his HEA. I can’t wait for more stories in this series ❤️
May 28, 2023
I have been so so impressed by the Poisonverse series! Usually when I read interconnected standalones by multiple authors some are great and some are okay. So far, I've absolutely loved each book in the series.
Ruby/Ruin is such a tragic and interesting character, she has gone through so much in her short life. Jackson is a hoot, a self proclaimed f-boy, and just a generally all around happy guy. Talon is the strong pack lead who just wants to protect his own. My favourites were definitely Luther and Cross but I have a thing for the damaged alphas who think they aren't good enough.
As always, read the trigger warnings.
This was a wonderful omegaverse that I'd highly recommend.
I saw that Amy was looking for ARC readers and jumped at the chance to get this new Poisonverse novel.
Ruby/Ruin is such a tragic and interesting character, she has gone through so much in her short life. Jackson is a hoot, a self proclaimed f-boy, and just a generally all around happy guy. Talon is the strong pack lead who just wants to protect his own. My favourites were definitely Luther and Cross but I have a thing for the damaged alphas who think they aren't good enough.
As always, read the trigger warnings.
This was a wonderful omegaverse that I'd highly recommend.
I saw that Amy was looking for ARC readers and jumped at the chance to get this new Poisonverse novel.
June 4, 2023
How can I even begin to describe this book when each character was so much better than then next. Every Alpha Character from Talon, Cross, Jackson, and Luther had such a difference in upbringing, character, and dominance that I could not turn the pages fast enough to learn more about each one of them. Then throw Ruby their scent matched Omega who does not know how to be one and has a traumatic past into the mix and you have one heck of a pack.
This book has a fantastic storying line; however, it is somewhat of a dark read; however, when you come out of the other side it is so worth it.
I can’t wait to read what is up next in this author’s wonderful Omegaverse brain.
I have received this as an ARC and this is my honest review!
This book has a fantastic storying line; however, it is somewhat of a dark read; however, when you come out of the other side it is so worth it.
I can’t wait to read what is up next in this author’s wonderful Omegaverse brain.
I have received this as an ARC and this is my honest review!
June 6, 2023
Of you are looking for a fluffy, feel good, sweet omegaverse book… this ain’t it. Ruin is stuck in a terrible situation, and no matter which way she goes, she is bound to lose.
This waa my first book by this author, and she blew me right out of the water. The writing ia crisp, the story is wonderful if heartbreaking, and the characters are engaging.
I loved each of the pack members equally, but Ruin honestly stole the show. She’s complex and complicated and I loves that Nova didn’t shy away from the results of what her life meant.
This book is gripping and gritty, so read the trigger warnings at the start.
If you loved Pack Darling and you are looking for something similar, this book is for you.
Absolutely brilliant.
This waa my first book by this author, and she blew me right out of the water. The writing ia crisp, the story is wonderful if heartbreaking, and the characters are engaging.
I loved each of the pack members equally, but Ruin honestly stole the show. She’s complex and complicated and I loves that Nova didn’t shy away from the results of what her life meant.
This book is gripping and gritty, so read the trigger warnings at the start.
If you loved Pack Darling and you are looking for something similar, this book is for you.
Absolutely brilliant.
August 23, 2023
I enjoyed the plot more in Ruined Alphas compared to the others of the series, I think Nova did a good job on the world building and I liked Ruin/Ruby’s story and seeing her opposing sides.
At first I liked Ruby and felt that she was a decent character. I liked the way she slid into Ruin’s persona as a defence mechanism, but towards the end I felt the way she acted didn’t fit with her personality at all, it was like she became a completely different character.
Luther helping Ruby with her eating habits was a really sweet moment that stuck out to me a lot, I think that was my favourite part of the whole book. I liked all the pack members and didn’t think that one overshadowed the other, we got to know all of them pretty well and they felt like fresh characters to me.
At first I liked Ruby and felt that she was a decent character. I liked the way she slid into Ruin’s persona as a defence mechanism, but towards the end I felt the way she acted didn’t fit with her personality at all, it was like she became a completely different character.
Luther helping Ruby with her eating habits was a really sweet moment that stuck out to me a lot, I think that was my favourite part of the whole book. I liked all the pack members and didn’t think that one overshadowed the other, we got to know all of them pretty well and they felt like fresh characters to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews