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Murdoch Mafia #6
Ruined By The Rook
Rook This should have been a story about the youngest sibling being rescued and returned to his family, grateful, happy, overcome with gratitude to be safe and home again. What a crock of sh*t that is. That isn’t how my story goes, I’m not grateful and I sure as hell am not thankful. I lived in fear for eight months while my family lived happily, banged their girls, pro created and carried on like I didn’t even exist. Nah, this isn’t some story with a happy ending. This is the story of how they all came to be Ruined By The Rook, especially her.
Clare In four years, he has changed so much. He used to be kind, loving, funny but now, he’s ruthless, angry and downright cold. Darkness never clung to him before, now he is shrouded in it. I swore I would never come back to this place, I told myself Rook Murdoch was dead to me. One look at him and all my feelings come rushing back, the shame, guilt, lust and worst of all, love. The way he looks at me now tells me he wants to see me burn in agony, I have nothing left to lose and I won’t survive running from him again. If allowing him to bully me and set me ablaze is what he needs to heal from his demons, then I’ll happily be Ruined By The Rook.
Clare In four years, he has changed so much. He used to be kind, loving, funny but now, he’s ruthless, angry and downright cold. Darkness never clung to him before, now he is shrouded in it. I swore I would never come back to this place, I told myself Rook Murdoch was dead to me. One look at him and all my feelings come rushing back, the shame, guilt, lust and worst of all, love. The way he looks at me now tells me he wants to see me burn in agony, I have nothing left to lose and I won’t survive running from him again. If allowing him to bully me and set me ablaze is what he needs to heal from his demons, then I’ll happily be Ruined By The Rook.
- GenresRomanceDark Romance
200 pages, Paperback
Published April 9, 2023
208 people are currently reading
414 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Barrett
51 books833 followersSamantha Barrett is originally from Auckland, New Zealand but living in Brisbane, Australia.
Sam writes all things dirty dark and delicious with a side of twisted mind fu*k.
She is a lover of all things red flags and an anti-hero is a must.
Sam writes all things dirty dark and delicious with a side of twisted mind fu*k.
She is a lover of all things red flags and an anti-hero is a must.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
October 2, 2023
Ruined by the ROOK
By Samantha Barrett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💧
Oh my heart! This one had me from the beginning! I loved AND hated this book!! Such an emotional roller coaster. Such a powerful book, full of rage and revenge and longing!
Do yourself a favour and read the series!!
This is book six of @Samantha Murdoch Mafia series. As with the others in this series, There are some dark and twisty moments and definitely some content that some should take into consideration so check those triggers warnings!
#ruinedbytherook #samathabarrett #darkromance #bookish #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #smut #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #review #arcreader #whychoose
By Samantha Barrett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💧
Oh my heart! This one had me from the beginning! I loved AND hated this book!! Such an emotional roller coaster. Such a powerful book, full of rage and revenge and longing!
Do yourself a favour and read the series!!
This is book six of @Samantha Murdoch Mafia series. As with the others in this series, There are some dark and twisty moments and definitely some content that some should take into consideration so check those triggers warnings!
#ruinedbytherook #samathabarrett #darkromance #bookish #bookaddict #readersofinstagram #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #smut #darkromance #reading #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #review #arcreader #whychoose
May 19, 2023
no no no
Bloody hell no you cannot leave it there, I’ve read the extra bonus piece and to say I am livid is mild lol. You’ve got to write Royals book you cannot leave it there and let any of them die, what a rotten cliff hanger. (The Worst)
I read all these books in a few days and couldn’t put them down, when I thought Bishop’s book was the best along comes Rook and let me tell you this book had me in tears for what he went through.
But come on Samantha please don’t leave it there and squash all my hopes lol.
I love mafia,my favourite genre and I’ve read a hell of a lot of them and let me say I loved these book too.
If you want good stories to read where the woman are badasses too then look no further. 🥰
Bloody hell no you cannot leave it there, I’ve read the extra bonus piece and to say I am livid is mild lol. You’ve got to write Royals book you cannot leave it there and let any of them die, what a rotten cliff hanger. (The Worst)
I read all these books in a few days and couldn’t put them down, when I thought Bishop’s book was the best along comes Rook and let me tell you this book had me in tears for what he went through.
But come on Samantha please don’t leave it there and squash all my hopes lol.
I love mafia,my favourite genre and I’ve read a hell of a lot of them and let me say I loved these book too.
If you want good stories to read where the woman are badasses too then look no further. 🥰
April 14, 2023
Its bittersweet in this one with Rook finally getting his HEA!! It's an emotional rollercoaster ride with all the feels in this one.
Wow, I can't say enough about this series because I swear each book just gets more intense and gripping to the next. So many secrets and lies that finally come out as Rook and Clare put everything on the line for their love once again. These two have been dealt unbelievable heartaches over the last four years. This one is extremely emotional but brings all the feels you need for Rook and Clare to find their HEA. Make sure if you need to check TW beforehand since this touches on sensitive issues.
Rook has had some serious trauma to work through in this book and it will break your heart at times but fear not the author will completely mend it soon enough. I honestly feel for this character because he lived eight months of pure agony to return to his family thinking no one cared he was taken and tortured in unspeakable ways. His darkness becomes so suffocating for him that he's unsure how to live now that he's free. Watching him find the one girl he ever loved that broke his heart becomes his lifeline to rebuild himself once again.
Clare is searching for her brother Luka to finally tell him of their father's passing and how she's been struggling all alone. When Clare finally gets to Luka she's brought face to face with the one guy she wished for over the last four years but is met with a darker Rook this time. When Rook pushes her away or treats her like he hates her only makes her want to tell him why she ran so many years ago. Without even knowing she slowly helps Rook find the peace he's been longing for and once they tell their stories of what and why things happened it becomes their new second chance at love again.
I highly recommend this entire series because it's so captivating and gripping with all the raw emotions this family has dealt with in each book. This one is just as emotional with all the feels that has you turning the pages as fast as you can to see Rook and Clare get their HEA! If you love the Mafia vibe, broody/cocky/alphahole characters, a strong female, emotional traumas, and a lot of spicy moments mixed in along the way then this is your book/series!! It's a Must Read for 2023!!
Wow, I can't say enough about this series because I swear each book just gets more intense and gripping to the next. So many secrets and lies that finally come out as Rook and Clare put everything on the line for their love once again. These two have been dealt unbelievable heartaches over the last four years. This one is extremely emotional but brings all the feels you need for Rook and Clare to find their HEA. Make sure if you need to check TW beforehand since this touches on sensitive issues.
Rook has had some serious trauma to work through in this book and it will break your heart at times but fear not the author will completely mend it soon enough. I honestly feel for this character because he lived eight months of pure agony to return to his family thinking no one cared he was taken and tortured in unspeakable ways. His darkness becomes so suffocating for him that he's unsure how to live now that he's free. Watching him find the one girl he ever loved that broke his heart becomes his lifeline to rebuild himself once again.
Clare is searching for her brother Luka to finally tell him of their father's passing and how she's been struggling all alone. When Clare finally gets to Luka she's brought face to face with the one guy she wished for over the last four years but is met with a darker Rook this time. When Rook pushes her away or treats her like he hates her only makes her want to tell him why she ran so many years ago. Without even knowing she slowly helps Rook find the peace he's been longing for and once they tell their stories of what and why things happened it becomes their new second chance at love again.
I highly recommend this entire series because it's so captivating and gripping with all the raw emotions this family has dealt with in each book. This one is just as emotional with all the feels that has you turning the pages as fast as you can to see Rook and Clare get their HEA! If you love the Mafia vibe, broody/cocky/alphahole characters, a strong female, emotional traumas, and a lot of spicy moments mixed in along the way then this is your book/series!! It's a Must Read for 2023!!
April 20, 2023
What can I say people…you better buckle up because Ruined By The Rook will WRECK YOU! 100% unequivocally wreck your heart and soul and then destroy your peace of mind for good measure—because that’s how the amazingly talented and oh so devious Samantha Barrett works! But Sony that deter you from diving into this final book of The Murdoch series because dang if it’s not worth the crazy emotional roller coaster of a ride!
This is a deep dark story of torment and trauma, emotional distress and destruction and so much pain and anger you can’t help but feel every bit of it alongside these characters—and as such develop a very love hate kind of feeling for Samantha along the way because even though you know it’s coming, it’s still so hard to see such a transformation occur on such a strong character like Rook. And just when you think he’s finally getting a break after being rescued from captivity and endless torture—he comes face time face with the one person from his past he never wanted to have to see again. Claire.
Clare meanwhile is just on a mission to find her brother to relay some news, not realizing that soon she’ll be reunited with a blast from her past that will change everything for her and you can’t help but admire her tenacity to stay strong even as Rook does everything he can to push her away. The question is, can with some much pain, trauma ans secrets amongst them can they ever get over it all to rebuild what they once had?
And I just have to say, I absolutely loved how Clare became a beacon for Rook, pulling him slowly from the darkness and despair back into the light, even if his original mission did start out with ill intentions—because a lifeline is a lifeline no matter what the original intentions were. And Claire is just what Rook needs to be pulled from the pit of repair this story finds him in.
If you love having your heart ripped out and your soul destroyed bit by bit, then this is the series for you! Especially if dark mafia romances with possessive, cocky, broody, domineering alpha males and equally strong and fiery heroines are your thing—just be sure to mind your triggers because Samantha doesn’t hold back!!!
This is a deep dark story of torment and trauma, emotional distress and destruction and so much pain and anger you can’t help but feel every bit of it alongside these characters—and as such develop a very love hate kind of feeling for Samantha along the way because even though you know it’s coming, it’s still so hard to see such a transformation occur on such a strong character like Rook. And just when you think he’s finally getting a break after being rescued from captivity and endless torture—he comes face time face with the one person from his past he never wanted to have to see again. Claire.
Clare meanwhile is just on a mission to find her brother to relay some news, not realizing that soon she’ll be reunited with a blast from her past that will change everything for her and you can’t help but admire her tenacity to stay strong even as Rook does everything he can to push her away. The question is, can with some much pain, trauma ans secrets amongst them can they ever get over it all to rebuild what they once had?
And I just have to say, I absolutely loved how Clare became a beacon for Rook, pulling him slowly from the darkness and despair back into the light, even if his original mission did start out with ill intentions—because a lifeline is a lifeline no matter what the original intentions were. And Claire is just what Rook needs to be pulled from the pit of repair this story finds him in.
If you love having your heart ripped out and your soul destroyed bit by bit, then this is the series for you! Especially if dark mafia romances with possessive, cocky, broody, domineering alpha males and equally strong and fiery heroines are your thing—just be sure to mind your triggers because Samantha doesn’t hold back!!!
June 28, 2025
This book… wow. Ruined by the Rook is hands down my favourite in the Murdoch Mafia series. It’s also, in my opinion, the darkest — but maybe that’s exactly why it hit me so hard. The depth, the romance, the pain, the healing… I’ve got literal heart eyes for Rook. HOLY MOLY did I love these two immensely.
Rook has officially taken the crown as my favourite Murdoch brother. His trauma, his broken soul, and the steps he took toward healing were so beautifully written. I adored that it was Claire — sweet, strong Claire — who helped him find light again. Their connection was undeniable, and when he called her “Sunshine”? Instant puddle. That moment hit me right in the heart. Underneath all that darkness, Rook was such a beautifully broken man, and I swooned every step of the way.
Their backstory added so much emotional weight — the character development was perfection. Watching them both evolve, and seeing Rook fight for his HEA, made their love story feel earned in the most satisfying way. His redemption, his growth, and his pride in healing made this a romantic and emotionally charged read.
Also, shoutout to the Murdoch women — absolute queens! They’re strong, sassy, and somehow make these brooding, dangerous mafia men kneel at their feet. I live for their power and fierceness.
Even with their father gone, the shadow he cast still lingers — and I hated that he was still able to cause chaos from six feet under. But it made the ending even more powerful and cathartic.
I’m absolutely gutted that this series has come to an end. I wish I could experience it all over again for the first time. Mafia, drama, madness, chaos — this ride was everything. Samantha Barrett deserves all the praise for delivering a series that was intense, romantic, and deeply unforgettable. I am not talking about the Epilogue either!! How can it end like that? I’m going to stare at the wall for a bit now and then head into the next books.
Rook has officially taken the crown as my favourite Murdoch brother. His trauma, his broken soul, and the steps he took toward healing were so beautifully written. I adored that it was Claire — sweet, strong Claire — who helped him find light again. Their connection was undeniable, and when he called her “Sunshine”? Instant puddle. That moment hit me right in the heart. Underneath all that darkness, Rook was such a beautifully broken man, and I swooned every step of the way.
Their backstory added so much emotional weight — the character development was perfection. Watching them both evolve, and seeing Rook fight for his HEA, made their love story feel earned in the most satisfying way. His redemption, his growth, and his pride in healing made this a romantic and emotionally charged read.
Also, shoutout to the Murdoch women — absolute queens! They’re strong, sassy, and somehow make these brooding, dangerous mafia men kneel at their feet. I live for their power and fierceness.
Even with their father gone, the shadow he cast still lingers — and I hated that he was still able to cause chaos from six feet under. But it made the ending even more powerful and cathartic.
I’m absolutely gutted that this series has come to an end. I wish I could experience it all over again for the first time. Mafia, drama, madness, chaos — this ride was everything. Samantha Barrett deserves all the praise for delivering a series that was intense, romantic, and deeply unforgettable. I am not talking about the Epilogue either!! How can it end like that? I’m going to stare at the wall for a bit now and then head into the next books.
September 11, 2024
Rating: ★★★★☆
Review:
Ruined By The Rook by Samantha Barrett is a beautifully written, emotionally charged romance that explores themes of redemption, healing, and finding love amid darkness. Barrett crafts a compelling narrative that dives deep into the struggles of her characters, making the emotional journey as gripping as the romance itself.
The quote, "You have scars that tell a story, but they aren't how your story will end, Rook," encapsulates the heart of the book—recognizing that our pasts don't define our future. Rook, a character weighed down by the burdens of his past, must learn that his scars are not the end of his story but merely a chapter in it. The heroine’s strength and compassion play a pivotal role in helping him navigate his journey toward healing, making their relationship one of both passion and emotional depth.
Barrett’s writing shines in how she conveys the raw emotions of the characters. The chemistry between Rook and the heroine is electric, yet it’s the deeper, more vulnerable moments that truly stand out. Their connection is about more than attraction—it's about acceptance, understanding, and growth. The dialogue between them is heartfelt and impactful, with moments like the quote above driving home the emotional core of the novel.
While the book deals with heavy themes, Barrett balances these darker moments with hope and love, giving readers a well-rounded and satisfying story. The pacing is smooth, with plenty of twists and emotional revelations that keep the narrative moving forward without feeling rushed.
Overall, Ruined By The Rook is a powerful, emotional romance that shows the beauty of healing and finding love in unexpected places. If you enjoy stories with complex characters and meaningful relationships, this book is one you won’t want to miss.
Review:
Ruined By The Rook by Samantha Barrett is a beautifully written, emotionally charged romance that explores themes of redemption, healing, and finding love amid darkness. Barrett crafts a compelling narrative that dives deep into the struggles of her characters, making the emotional journey as gripping as the romance itself.
The quote, "You have scars that tell a story, but they aren't how your story will end, Rook," encapsulates the heart of the book—recognizing that our pasts don't define our future. Rook, a character weighed down by the burdens of his past, must learn that his scars are not the end of his story but merely a chapter in it. The heroine’s strength and compassion play a pivotal role in helping him navigate his journey toward healing, making their relationship one of both passion and emotional depth.
Barrett’s writing shines in how she conveys the raw emotions of the characters. The chemistry between Rook and the heroine is electric, yet it’s the deeper, more vulnerable moments that truly stand out. Their connection is about more than attraction—it's about acceptance, understanding, and growth. The dialogue between them is heartfelt and impactful, with moments like the quote above driving home the emotional core of the novel.
While the book deals with heavy themes, Barrett balances these darker moments with hope and love, giving readers a well-rounded and satisfying story. The pacing is smooth, with plenty of twists and emotional revelations that keep the narrative moving forward without feeling rushed.
Overall, Ruined By The Rook is a powerful, emotional romance that shows the beauty of healing and finding love in unexpected places. If you enjoy stories with complex characters and meaningful relationships, this book is one you won’t want to miss.
April 14, 2023
As with the rest of the books in the series there are several triggers: PTSD, Human Trafficking, Thoughts of Suicide, Death of a Child, Abuse.
The transformation of Rook from the beginning of this series to the end was definitely worth the wait. He suffered so much and slowly with the help of his family he was able to find a semblance of hope.
Clare is a former lover of Rook with a secret of her own. She and Rook had a very stressful and toxic reunion. Now coming face to face with Rook, Clare doesn't know how to deal with the h8tred he has for her and everything else.
Secrets from the past begin to resurface which serves as a catalyst to both Clare and Rook's healing. Second chances are rare but to have a second chances with your one true love after all the hurt, pain and betrayal from the past tried to keep you apart is priceless.
This book was a fitting end to a dark, gritty and raw Mafia series giving the Murdoch Family a well deserved HEA. Strap on because the next Generation of Murdoch's are ready to drop bodies and take names later. If you thought Bishop, King, Knight, Rook and Gage were d3adly; I have a feeling their offsprings are gonna be the most Ruthless Murdoch's yet!!!
The transformation of Rook from the beginning of this series to the end was definitely worth the wait. He suffered so much and slowly with the help of his family he was able to find a semblance of hope.
Clare is a former lover of Rook with a secret of her own. She and Rook had a very stressful and toxic reunion. Now coming face to face with Rook, Clare doesn't know how to deal with the h8tred he has for her and everything else.
Secrets from the past begin to resurface which serves as a catalyst to both Clare and Rook's healing. Second chances are rare but to have a second chances with your one true love after all the hurt, pain and betrayal from the past tried to keep you apart is priceless.
This book was a fitting end to a dark, gritty and raw Mafia series giving the Murdoch Family a well deserved HEA. Strap on because the next Generation of Murdoch's are ready to drop bodies and take names later. If you thought Bishop, King, Knight, Rook and Gage were d3adly; I have a feeling their offsprings are gonna be the most Ruthless Murdoch's yet!!!
April 14, 2023
“Ruined by the rook” is the 6th and final book in the Murdoch mafia series. It’s such a bittersweet moment to say goodbye to characters you love. As much as I hate to say goodbye to these ruthless but yet loveable characters it’s also the perfect way to end a series.
Samantha Barrett is an outstanding author with great throughout storylines. She will keep you on your toes throughout the entire journey and leave you craving more.
“Ruined by the rook” is definitely my favourite in this series. Rook has been through a horrific ordeal. He is the broken shell of a man he used to be. Room is filled with self loathing, hatred and anger and he has a long road to his recovery. Clare was the other half to Rook’s soul. She was the light to his darkness, his anchor his everything. She is a character of strength and they were absolutely perfect.
This entire series has been a rollercoaster that I will not forget any time soon. I can only hope that there will be a second generation someday I’m crossing all my fingers and toes for this.
I cannot recommend this story enough.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
FIVE STARS ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Samantha Barrett is an outstanding author with great throughout storylines. She will keep you on your toes throughout the entire journey and leave you craving more.
“Ruined by the rook” is definitely my favourite in this series. Rook has been through a horrific ordeal. He is the broken shell of a man he used to be. Room is filled with self loathing, hatred and anger and he has a long road to his recovery. Clare was the other half to Rook’s soul. She was the light to his darkness, his anchor his everything. She is a character of strength and they were absolutely perfect.
This entire series has been a rollercoaster that I will not forget any time soon. I can only hope that there will be a second generation someday I’m crossing all my fingers and toes for this.
I cannot recommend this story enough.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
FIVE STARS ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read
September 25, 2023They never gave up hope on finding Rook, but when they did they didn’t quite get back their brother.
Rook went through the motions, did what Bishop asked and saw the woman twice a week, but what they don’t understand is they went on with their lives while he went through hell, a hell he recalls every day and doesn’t know how to live again.
Clare just wanted to find her brother, she needed to talk to him, with so much going on in her life she just wanted him to make it better. She never expected Rook to be there and accuse her.
The Rook that Clare sees now is different, he’s much darker, she has no clue on what he went through, but he has the wrong assumption on why she left him and thinks it’s about time he knows.
Rook knows that somehow, he feels better with Clare around, almost like being around her is helping him heal, but he doesn’t know if he can forgive her for what she did, but what happens when he finds out what really happened. Can they get back the love they both once had with everything that they have been through.
Rook went through the motions, did what Bishop asked and saw the woman twice a week, but what they don’t understand is they went on with their lives while he went through hell, a hell he recalls every day and doesn’t know how to live again.
Clare just wanted to find her brother, she needed to talk to him, with so much going on in her life she just wanted him to make it better. She never expected Rook to be there and accuse her.
The Rook that Clare sees now is different, he’s much darker, she has no clue on what he went through, but he has the wrong assumption on why she left him and thinks it’s about time he knows.
Rook knows that somehow, he feels better with Clare around, almost like being around her is helping him heal, but he doesn’t know if he can forgive her for what she did, but what happens when he finds out what really happened. Can they get back the love they both once had with everything that they have been through.
October 12, 2023
Ruined by the Rook is the 6th book in the Murdoch Mafia series by Samantha Barrett. This series just got better with every book and this book brought so many resolutions and healing. I couldn't put this book down and absolutely loved the emotional rollercoaster it took me on. This book does leave the main characters with their HEA, but it does end with the start of the next generation books.
I absolutely fell for Rook. His story completely broke my heart and had me tearing up for everything that he went through. I just wanted to give him a hug throughout most of the book. I really liked Clare and thought she was perfect for him. She is definitely the light that he needs after so much darkness.
I really enjoyed this series. If you enjoy mafia families then you need to read this series now! There are dark elements in each book so be sure to check the warnings!
I absolutely fell for Rook. His story completely broke my heart and had me tearing up for everything that he went through. I just wanted to give him a hug throughout most of the book. I really liked Clare and thought she was perfect for him. She is definitely the light that he needs after so much darkness.
I really enjoyed this series. If you enjoy mafia families then you need to read this series now! There are dark elements in each book so be sure to check the warnings!
October 25, 2023
Ruined by the Rook by Samantha Barrett is the story of Rook and Clare. Rook is home after being rescued from his torturous abductor….and Clare is back. The woman who ruined his life and changed everything. He can not forgive her. Clare has never stopped loving Rook…and she is hiding lots of things from her past that no one knows. Meanwhile, the family is dealing with a multitude of their own issues….
Rook…he stole my heart!!! He has suffered through so much…become so bitter and cold. Clare refuses to believe that her Rook is no longer there….she knows he’s there…deep beneath his cold exterior. This story is definitely not for the faint of heart!!
I’ve been waiting sooooooooo long for Rook’s story…and I was NOT disappointed!! The final story in the Murdoch Mafia is bittersweet…Absolutely my favorite in the series!!!!
Rook…he stole my heart!!! He has suffered through so much…become so bitter and cold. Clare refuses to believe that her Rook is no longer there….she knows he’s there…deep beneath his cold exterior. This story is definitely not for the faint of heart!!
I’ve been waiting sooooooooo long for Rook’s story…and I was NOT disappointed!! The final story in the Murdoch Mafia is bittersweet…Absolutely my favorite in the series!!!!
April 13, 2024
good read
I enjoyed this one. Everything has come full circle and while they are done fighting externally, Rook is dealing with the aftermath of being a captive for 8 months and all the damage that it caused. Rook is angry and upset with pretty much everyone and then Clare comes back into his life and it causes enough of a reaction to get something happening. This story deals with the aftermath and the healing after all the trauma that Rook went through. It is on the darker side due to that but it is well done and there is a happy ending and healing that comes from it all. This was great and it has a little extra at the end and now I definitely need the next generations story!
I enjoyed this one. Everything has come full circle and while they are done fighting externally, Rook is dealing with the aftermath of being a captive for 8 months and all the damage that it caused. Rook is angry and upset with pretty much everyone and then Clare comes back into his life and it causes enough of a reaction to get something happening. This story deals with the aftermath and the healing after all the trauma that Rook went through. It is on the darker side due to that but it is well done and there is a happy ending and healing that comes from it all. This was great and it has a little extra at the end and now I definitely need the next generations story!
August 11, 2025
Rook has been through hell. He has suffered things that people couldn’t even imagine. 8 months in captivity. All whilst his brothers were still living their lives, sleeping comfortably with their women, making new lives. Meanwhile he is stuck in darkness. Reliving everything, all day every day. Whilst each of his brothers and the woman try to get through to him. He won’t break again, there is nothing left. He cannot forgive them for not coming sooner.
When Clare reappears, it lights something in him. She was his first love and first heartbreak and he thinks she aborted their baby. But he also notices how things change when she’s about. Can he let go of the past, crawl out of the darkness to find light again!
Aww Rook was my favourite, hated what he went through
Xx
When Clare reappears, it lights something in him. She was his first love and first heartbreak and he thinks she aborted their baby. But he also notices how things change when she’s about. Can he let go of the past, crawl out of the darkness to find light again!
Aww Rook was my favourite, hated what he went through
Xx
April 17, 2023
My god, what a ride I've literally devoured all 6 of these books in about a week, I couldnt put them down
I've got to love all the Murdoch brothers through each of their stories but none touched my heart the way Rooks did
It was devastating to see how his 8 month captivity destroyed him my heart literally broke for him, ive cried numerous times reading this book !!
All I will say is if you haven't read this book or any of the previous 5 please do it , you wont be disappointed its a truly awesome story with wonderfully written characters by an amazing author !!
A truly well deserved 5 star read 🖤
I've got to love all the Murdoch brothers through each of their stories but none touched my heart the way Rooks did
It was devastating to see how his 8 month captivity destroyed him my heart literally broke for him, ive cried numerous times reading this book !!
All I will say is if you haven't read this book or any of the previous 5 please do it , you wont be disappointed its a truly awesome story with wonderfully written characters by an amazing author !!
A truly well deserved 5 star read 🖤
April 21, 2023
Oh this book had my heart all over the place. From the beginning where Rook is so down and broken, beyond repair after what he had endured thanks to the Russians absolutely killed me. The moment Clare comes back into his life things start to change. First he’s angry with how things played out in the past but his feelings for her start to take over, and then he learns the truth. Clare has come back to find her brother after being alone since losing her dad. The way these two come back together and help each other is just beautiful. A book where you feel every bit of emotion. Definitely my fave out of this series. One thing I cannot believe is that ending…..OMG!!
November 7, 2023
I absolutely loved reading Ruined by the Rook.
Rook Murdoch was always the sweet youngest of the Murdoch brothers. His life really was turned upside down when it all went to hell.
Clare Salinski, luka's sister, had her chance 4 years ago with Rook before she ran.
Now she is back to see her brother Luka.
All hell breaks loose.
Book 6 was very emotionally charged traumatic storyline filled with heartbreak and drama, pain and suffering that at times hurt to read.
I loved reading more about each character as their lives changed and realised that together nothing could tear them apart.
Highly recommended reading
Rook Murdoch was always the sweet youngest of the Murdoch brothers. His life really was turned upside down when it all went to hell.
Clare Salinski, luka's sister, had her chance 4 years ago with Rook before she ran.
Now she is back to see her brother Luka.
All hell breaks loose.
Book 6 was very emotionally charged traumatic storyline filled with heartbreak and drama, pain and suffering that at times hurt to read.
I loved reading more about each character as their lives changed and realised that together nothing could tear them apart.
Highly recommended reading
March 21, 2023
Oh this book!! I cried at the end of the previous one. I knew this one was going to shred my heart. This book gutted me!! I knew it was going to be rough after the way we left Rook in the last book. I just didn’t know how hard it was going to be.
I will say this one is DARKER by far than any of the others. This one will have many trigger warnings you need to check for.
The redemption story out MMC gets is so beautiful in its own way and then the FMC is pure sunshine and his light. I can’t live this book enough! You knocked it out of the park. I can’t wait to see what comes next 😉😉
I will say this one is DARKER by far than any of the others. This one will have many trigger warnings you need to check for.
The redemption story out MMC gets is so beautiful in its own way and then the FMC is pure sunshine and his light. I can’t live this book enough! You knocked it out of the park. I can’t wait to see what comes next 😉😉
March 22, 2023
Ooo this book , this book!!! Broke me and put me back... The Murdoch brothers are bloody elite. The darkness in them is seriously underestimated. Rook Rook Rook, the suffering he goes through and the psychological effects that has manifested in him is seriously painful. Knowing what happened to him in those dark days my heart broke. And here comes Clare, beautiful, smart and so head over heels for rook, but with the past that comes outta left field. Man, that was something.
A perfect ending to a wonderful series!!!
A perfect ending to a wonderful series!!!
April 10, 2023
Oooh this book has broken men and slowly put me back together. The darkness of this story comes with TW ⚠️. This family has tough love and stand by each other and help get Rook back. Rooks first love comes back and the fight and love are a pull tug. Rook soon finds his sunshine from her, as Clare grounds him during his darkest moments.
Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy 🌶️
Tropes: TW, human trafficking, survivor, baby loss, therapy, second chance, secrets, trauma, triggers, PTSD, anxiety, depression.
This complete this series hopefully will get books on the second generation.
Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy 🌶️
Tropes: TW, human trafficking, survivor, baby loss, therapy, second chance, secrets, trauma, triggers, PTSD, anxiety, depression.
This complete this series hopefully will get books on the second generation.
April 11, 2023
My god this book ripped me apart. I cried a bit. Rook has been in capture for 8 months. Now after his family gets him back he has physical and mental scars that he has to get through. And then you have Clare her and Rook had a thing a while back and now she’s back. I can’t go into much details. Whoever is reading my review , Trust Me this book will tear at your heart strings. You won’t be able to stop reading this. Andddd have plenty of tissues on standby. WTG to Samantha Barrett on yet another amazing story and end to the series.
April 12, 2023
What a end to a wild ride!!!!
The Murdoch Mafia series was a crazy roller coaster with each book being just as good as the last but Rook’s story did it for me.
Ruined by the Rook was my favorite out of all the books. It was a great ending to a amazing series. It was also the darkest. Rook went through hell and made it out with the help of Claire. She won me over from the start. She can hold her own against this family.
This is a must read series. Definitely one of the best mafia series I have ever read.
The Murdoch Mafia series was a crazy roller coaster with each book being just as good as the last but Rook’s story did it for me.
Ruined by the Rook was my favorite out of all the books. It was a great ending to a amazing series. It was also the darkest. Rook went through hell and made it out with the help of Claire. She won me over from the start. She can hold her own against this family.
This is a must read series. Definitely one of the best mafia series I have ever read.
August 24, 2023
Bend not Broken
Ruined by the Rook is Rook and Clara's story, Samantha Barrett kept her promise, the story was raw, full of emotions from anger, hate, attraction to love and everything in between. Both Rook and Clara had experienced trauma that would have broken most people. Even though this story was dark, raw and dealt with some very difficult subjects at times, it was also beautiful and full of love. Thank you Samamtha Barrett for creating this intriguing world and characters that surprise you again and again with their courage, flaws, determination and love.
Ruined by the Rook is Rook and Clara's story, Samantha Barrett kept her promise, the story was raw, full of emotions from anger, hate, attraction to love and everything in between. Both Rook and Clara had experienced trauma that would have broken most people. Even though this story was dark, raw and dealt with some very difficult subjects at times, it was also beautiful and full of love. Thank you Samamtha Barrett for creating this intriguing world and characters that surprise you again and again with their courage, flaws, determination and love.
April 3, 2024
perfect ending to the Murdoch Mafia series
I loved this final book of the series, everything is wrapt up beautifully.
The hardships and family pull together and battle their demons.
You see some step up and other admit their faults. I was really moved by all the emotion written into the storyline.
The blood, torture and gore were perfect.
Overall a very fitting ending to this series and loved the ending where we see the new generation start to step up and shine their Mafia bloodline.
I loved this final book of the series, everything is wrapt up beautifully.
The hardships and family pull together and battle their demons.
You see some step up and other admit their faults. I was really moved by all the emotion written into the storyline.
The blood, torture and gore were perfect.
Overall a very fitting ending to this series and loved the ending where we see the new generation start to step up and shine their Mafia bloodline.
March 30, 2023
Ruined by the Rook is a complete understatement to how i am feeling right now! It's pretty damn hard to pick a favourite Murdoch brother, but after my feelings hearing Rooks story, this has been my favourite book so far. The intense heartbreak Sam put me through with Rook is what has landed her with her nickname "Heartbreaker". And now I'm heartbroken it's over!!
Sam please please please, I need more Murdoch's!!!
Sam please please please, I need more Murdoch's!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2023
I say it every time I read one of the Murdoch stories but dammit this one is the one. Ripped my heart out, played football with it and eventually put it back in my chest. While Rook’s book was the darkest of them all, it was also the most emotional. There was so much to unpack in this one (but again, I say that for each of these books). One of my favorite series to date and there couldn’t have been a better ending to their journeys!
May 11, 2023
Oh my!! Rook and Clare's story has got to be the one that hit me the most in the emotions department and my favorite in the series! This couple has been handed everything wrong, secrets kept tight, and trauma that changes you. My heart hurt for this couple! Clare is no doubt Rooks Sunshine, and this story could not have ended in any better way!! I hope Samantha does the second generation as I have not had my fill of the Murdoch family!
September 19, 2023
This series is crazy good and scorching hot... Would totally recommend this book and the others to anyone... The things that Rook went through is devastating... And Clare losing something so precious is heartbreaking and the way she lost it is so sad... But all in all I honestly loved these books... And the ending make me be in the lookout for any possibly more books that may be included in this series.
September 21, 2023
Wow what a way to finish the series
Rook is found but what he went through is off the charts and heartbreaking can and will he find his way back.
Clare she's loved him for years how will the two of them be when they meet back up.
Will the darkness consume Rook or with the help from Clare will he come back to the light.
Sweet,loving,dark, heartbreaking 💔 family I can't praise this book or series enough loved it thank Samantha barrett for bringing us The Murdoch family.
Rook is found but what he went through is off the charts and heartbreaking can and will he find his way back.
Clare she's loved him for years how will the two of them be when they meet back up.
Will the darkness consume Rook or with the help from Clare will he come back to the light.
Sweet,loving,dark, heartbreaking 💔 family I can't praise this book or series enough loved it thank Samantha barrett for bringing us The Murdoch family.
October 8, 2023
Rook & Clare
Tears Tears and more tears.
I knew Rooks story was going to make me cry, I just didn't realize how many times. This was a heartbreaking story, two first loves were torn apart due to separate traumatic events and the only way they can heal is by being together again. Watching Clare pull Rook out of the darkness brought so much happiness.
This was a fantastic end to a great series.
Tears Tears and more tears.
I knew Rooks story was going to make me cry, I just didn't realize how many times. This was a heartbreaking story, two first loves were torn apart due to separate traumatic events and the only way they can heal is by being together again. Watching Clare pull Rook out of the darkness brought so much happiness.
This was a fantastic end to a great series.
November 3, 2024
**audiobook**
Just found my new favorite author Samantha Barrett
If you have fainted heart please skip
I LOVE DARK DARK romance as dark as my heart
Oh my i laughed i cried i swooned it hurts … so many feelings just mixed in to #samanthabarrett words. Thank you so much for sharing everything in to books. Please bring all your books to #audio soon please i cannot wait … i can’t read 😞
Love The Murdoch Mafia series so much. I can’t wait for next Gen
Just found my new favorite author Samantha Barrett
If you have fainted heart please skip
I LOVE DARK DARK romance as dark as my heart
Oh my i laughed i cried i swooned it hurts … so many feelings just mixed in to #samanthabarrett words. Thank you so much for sharing everything in to books. Please bring all your books to #audio soon please i cannot wait … i can’t read 😞
Love The Murdoch Mafia series so much. I can’t wait for next Gen
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