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Raegan of Ruin #1
Ravage
We promised to stick together. And then they betrayed me.
In a world where more children are being born with special abilities, we were six of the ones kidnapped and hidden away for testing and training.
We banded together and became a family…until one of us was killed.
The others turned on me and left me for dead.
Five years later, and I’m on a hunt for vengeance against the organization that’s still stealing and brainwashing gifted kids in secret. It’s all I have left; to rid the world of this evil. Until I realize that they are in this city with the same goal.
Aiden. Kellan. Jackson. Dane.
Now I need to decide. Do I work with the ones who abandoned me five years ago, or walk away from this city and finish the war by myself?
But once they discover I’m here, I learn they have their own plans for me.
* Ravage is a full length why choose dark paranormal romance novel that ends on a cliffhanger. It is book 1 in the Raegan of Ruin series that will be completed in 2025. If you like plot, banter, steam, a strong heroine, and multiple alpha-holes that you don't have to choose between, then this is for you. It is recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations.
In a world where more children are being born with special abilities, we were six of the ones kidnapped and hidden away for testing and training.
We banded together and became a family…until one of us was killed.
The others turned on me and left me for dead.
Five years later, and I’m on a hunt for vengeance against the organization that’s still stealing and brainwashing gifted kids in secret. It’s all I have left; to rid the world of this evil. Until I realize that they are in this city with the same goal.
Aiden. Kellan. Jackson. Dane.
Now I need to decide. Do I work with the ones who abandoned me five years ago, or walk away from this city and finish the war by myself?
But once they discover I’m here, I learn they have their own plans for me.
* Ravage is a full length why choose dark paranormal romance novel that ends on a cliffhanger. It is book 1 in the Raegan of Ruin series that will be completed in 2025. If you like plot, banter, steam, a strong heroine, and multiple alpha-holes that you don't have to choose between, then this is for you. It is recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations.
489 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2024
1481 people are currently reading
1779 people want to read
About the author
A.L. Rook
5 books110 followersA.L. Rook is an avid reader and has been dreaming of becoming an author since the first grade. She’s been thinking up and writing stories ever since. Her favorite stories are dark contemporary or fantasy romance with strong characters that leave a lasting impression. When not drinking exorbitant amounts of coffee while writing, she can be found reading, binge-watching various shows, or traveling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 251 reviews
October 1, 2024
Groveling. That is the word of the night. That is the word of the season. Grov-el-ing.
July 22, 2024
*ARC provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Let me start by staying this is not my typical pick for genre. It is a why choose, urban fantasy, dark romance and I ATE IT UP. This world has people gifted with abilities similar to the mutants of Xmen. People who can bend and manipulate metal, control air, coerce, and much much more. Each gift is incredible but it also makes them a target.
A company called Gifted Enterprises targets these gifted, takes them from a young age and raises them to be their own personal army of assassins and other things. They’re essentially brain washed into thinking the G.E. is all good and they’re helping people.
Our female main character was picked up by G.E. and raised with 4 other young boys. They were best friends going through their training together. Until one day the unthinkable happens and all hell breaks loose.
She betrayed them all.
They left her to die.
And now she’s back in their city with a hunger for revenge against the very foundation that made her what she is. Digging up the past to bring down an organization comes with the consequences of seeing old friends- turned enemies. If only her heart and her body would get on the same page as her mind.
The very men she grew up, were her protectors, that she hurt… she can’t seem to stay away from. Or them from her.
Can they work together or will she be their doom?
I CANNOT WAIT for the next book in this series!
Let me start by staying this is not my typical pick for genre. It is a why choose, urban fantasy, dark romance and I ATE IT UP. This world has people gifted with abilities similar to the mutants of Xmen. People who can bend and manipulate metal, control air, coerce, and much much more. Each gift is incredible but it also makes them a target.
A company called Gifted Enterprises targets these gifted, takes them from a young age and raises them to be their own personal army of assassins and other things. They’re essentially brain washed into thinking the G.E. is all good and they’re helping people.
Our female main character was picked up by G.E. and raised with 4 other young boys. They were best friends going through their training together. Until one day the unthinkable happens and all hell breaks loose.
She betrayed them all.
They left her to die.
And now she’s back in their city with a hunger for revenge against the very foundation that made her what she is. Digging up the past to bring down an organization comes with the consequences of seeing old friends- turned enemies. If only her heart and her body would get on the same page as her mind.
The very men she grew up, were her protectors, that she hurt… she can’t seem to stay away from. Or them from her.
Can they work together or will she be their doom?
I CANNOT WAIT for the next book in this series!
September 15, 2024
DNF 50% A few glaring issues for me
This book is very similar to another popular series I've read (some of you will know which one off the bat) Its the same story of a girl and her best friends in a facility. They try escape, one dies the others hate her and blame her. Plus, she allows the bullying when they find each other years later trying to take down the organisation. (Ring any bells??
I read this thinking okay it's not original but maybe it's better. For me it wasn't. Raegan has no clue what she's doing and has a death wish. For someone being hunted, getting blackout hammered and dancing in club cages (where everyone can see you) is preposterous. In the age of technology how can she be shocked they keep finding her???
Another problem for me is it absolutely annoys me when a heroine keeps up with the bumping track of refusing to tell anyone the truth.
3 stars because if I had more patience for Raegan I would have liked to know more about the MMCs, I do like them unhinged.
This book is very similar to another popular series I've read (some of you will know which one off the bat) Its the same story of a girl and her best friends in a facility. They try escape, one dies the others hate her and blame her. Plus, she allows the bullying when they find each other years later trying to take down the organisation. (Ring any bells??
I read this thinking okay it's not original but maybe it's better. For me it wasn't. Raegan has no clue what she's doing and has a death wish. For someone being hunted, getting blackout hammered and dancing in club cages (where everyone can see you) is preposterous. In the age of technology how can she be shocked they keep finding her???
Another problem for me is it absolutely annoys me when a heroine keeps up with the bumping track of refusing to tell anyone the truth.
3 stars because if I had more patience for Raegan I would have liked to know more about the MMCs, I do like them unhinged.
June 3, 2025
I lost myself in this book. Completely. I live and breath why choose romance. It is my lifeblood.
When I was reading this book… I was so captivated I literally forgot how to blink. I went to Palm Springs recently to read by the pool and I have almost three degree burns to prove that my mind… was occupied….
Raegan is hunting an organization that she grew up in… they take children born with extraordinary powers and then brainwash them to use their powers for control.
When she was a child she was taken by this organization.. along with six others that banded together when they were young … becoming a family… until one of them… didn’t make it… and the other’s all turned against Raegan and left her behind.
Five years later… she’s on the hunt for revenge against this organization… until she realizes that THEY are in the city too… Aiden… Kellan… Jackson.. and Dane… and they aren’t going to be happy when they find out she’s in the same city…
“Even when I was still within arm’s reach of them, I’d been changed. Broken and remolded into the foundation of who I am today. I’m no longer a naïve little girl thinking she’s some kind of hero. I’ve accepted that I’m a villain.”
This book is literally when hatred meets heavy breathing. There’s angry make out sessions and absolutely gutted anger and betrayal.
You will be glued to the pages of this book… Every. Agonizing. Minute.
The emotional damage is served on a silver platter here so definitely check those trigger warnings.
This story has such emotional pain and it’s so heavy on the feels… at times it’s lonely and raw and devastating…
But those small moments of healing and honesty are going to come together to something big and beautiful with incredible purpose. And I can’t wait.
“We were like broken pieces of glass. We fit together, but it was unstable. Just as easy to cut each other than it is to line up all of our jagged edges. We were missing the glue that kept us together.”
Before we get past this pain… this series is going to take us directly through it. I’m a little scared… but mostly excited.
“I’m drawn to his self-assuredness and calm confidence. I want to wrap myself up in it like a blanket and take a long, deep breath that I’ve gone years without. To wear his inner strength like armor where nothing and no one can touch me. He’s like a boulder in the ocean, standing tall and strong no matter the temper of the sea crashing against it. And for once, I’d like to hold on to something that won’t break under the waves and will keep me above water.”
The spice was so hot I think my kindle started to overheat… Every interaction was electric and fueled with tension… and the chemistry between each of these characters was literally making me blush and short circuit.
“I’ll be your demon. You won’t scare me away. I’ve done things that nightmares are made of. You want to burn the world down? I’ll give you the match to do it.”
This is a slow simmer of a romance because they go from friends… to enemies… to strangers… to something else completely that’s unfolding that is absolutely. Delectable.
“Knowing she could wind up as the enemy, I still crave every glare, every sharp-tongued jab, anything she’ll give me. Love, hate, anything so long as it’s just for me.”
And I’m sorry but the ending of this book haunts me… I just sat there blinking into the void when it was over…
Don’t even question if you should read this one. Dive in… and give it your upmost attention... but to be honest… it’s going to be hard for you not to look away from this book because it is… burning… brilliant… super hot… perfection.
When I was reading this book… I was so captivated I literally forgot how to blink. I went to Palm Springs recently to read by the pool and I have almost three degree burns to prove that my mind… was occupied….
Raegan is hunting an organization that she grew up in… they take children born with extraordinary powers and then brainwash them to use their powers for control.
When she was a child she was taken by this organization.. along with six others that banded together when they were young … becoming a family… until one of them… didn’t make it… and the other’s all turned against Raegan and left her behind.
Five years later… she’s on the hunt for revenge against this organization… until she realizes that THEY are in the city too… Aiden… Kellan… Jackson.. and Dane… and they aren’t going to be happy when they find out she’s in the same city…
“Even when I was still within arm’s reach of them, I’d been changed. Broken and remolded into the foundation of who I am today. I’m no longer a naïve little girl thinking she’s some kind of hero. I’ve accepted that I’m a villain.”
This book is literally when hatred meets heavy breathing. There’s angry make out sessions and absolutely gutted anger and betrayal.
You will be glued to the pages of this book… Every. Agonizing. Minute.
The emotional damage is served on a silver platter here so definitely check those trigger warnings.
This story has such emotional pain and it’s so heavy on the feels… at times it’s lonely and raw and devastating…
But those small moments of healing and honesty are going to come together to something big and beautiful with incredible purpose. And I can’t wait.
“We were like broken pieces of glass. We fit together, but it was unstable. Just as easy to cut each other than it is to line up all of our jagged edges. We were missing the glue that kept us together.”
Before we get past this pain… this series is going to take us directly through it. I’m a little scared… but mostly excited.
“I’m drawn to his self-assuredness and calm confidence. I want to wrap myself up in it like a blanket and take a long, deep breath that I’ve gone years without. To wear his inner strength like armor where nothing and no one can touch me. He’s like a boulder in the ocean, standing tall and strong no matter the temper of the sea crashing against it. And for once, I’d like to hold on to something that won’t break under the waves and will keep me above water.”
The spice was so hot I think my kindle started to overheat… Every interaction was electric and fueled with tension… and the chemistry between each of these characters was literally making me blush and short circuit.
“I’ll be your demon. You won’t scare me away. I’ve done things that nightmares are made of. You want to burn the world down? I’ll give you the match to do it.”
This is a slow simmer of a romance because they go from friends… to enemies… to strangers… to something else completely that’s unfolding that is absolutely. Delectable.
“Knowing she could wind up as the enemy, I still crave every glare, every sharp-tongued jab, anything she’ll give me. Love, hate, anything so long as it’s just for me.”
And I’m sorry but the ending of this book haunts me… I just sat there blinking into the void when it was over…
Don’t even question if you should read this one. Dive in… and give it your upmost attention... but to be honest… it’s going to be hard for you not to look away from this book because it is… burning… brilliant… super hot… perfection.
November 27, 2024
Spoilers.
Solid 3. I will admit my eyes kind of glazed over from 80-95 percent. Due to just being a little too repetitive and a tad too long for what is actually accomplished in the book.
Let's just break this down:
Plot:
I feel like I've read so many books like this one. This one actually reminded me a little of the ties that bond series mixed with the black veil books by B.M clemton. We get some good elements with the secret facility the powers and the "betrayal". However this book was incredibly slow with the plot movement. I feel like they are just in a holding pattern without much progress.
Main female:
Meh. The miscommunication trope and the keeping secrets thing is already old. I know she won't be changing any time soon, but keeping secrets for the sake of keeping secrets seems like a flimsy excuse when they are all facing something much more important that stuff she did or had done to her. I just want her to get over herself.
Main Men:
I wish we got more from these guys. I won't lie and say I feel a connection to them because I just don't. I think when the main character pretends to not be invested in the relationship and doesn't give us the warm and fuzzy feelings it's hard to muster it up. Also, I just feel like the "we will never forgive you" without any questions asked is another faulty plot. You were all prisoners in a facility, a bad thing happens and instead of asking any questions you just go yup she did it in over her and never speaking to her again.
So overall I am not singing the books praises but I'm intrigued and want to see whats next, this book could also have been around 70 pages shorter.
Solid 3. I will admit my eyes kind of glazed over from 80-95 percent. Due to just being a little too repetitive and a tad too long for what is actually accomplished in the book.
Let's just break this down:
Plot:
I feel like I've read so many books like this one. This one actually reminded me a little of the ties that bond series mixed with the black veil books by B.M clemton. We get some good elements with the secret facility the powers and the "betrayal". However this book was incredibly slow with the plot movement. I feel like they are just in a holding pattern without much progress.
Main female:
Meh. The miscommunication trope and the keeping secrets thing is already old. I know she won't be changing any time soon, but keeping secrets for the sake of keeping secrets seems like a flimsy excuse when they are all facing something much more important that stuff she did or had done to her. I just want her to get over herself.
Main Men:
I wish we got more from these guys. I won't lie and say I feel a connection to them because I just don't. I think when the main character pretends to not be invested in the relationship and doesn't give us the warm and fuzzy feelings it's hard to muster it up. Also, I just feel like the "we will never forgive you" without any questions asked is another faulty plot. You were all prisoners in a facility, a bad thing happens and instead of asking any questions you just go yup she did it in over her and never speaking to her again.
So overall I am not singing the books praises but I'm intrigued and want to see whats next, this book could also have been around 70 pages shorter.
February 14, 2025
I got this book gifted and thought it would be good but THAT FREAKING amazing?!? Holy shit that was everything and more 😭 Wow! Thank you so much AL Rook!!
July 16, 2025
Rating: 4, Good ✨♥️
Dane being the reason they're being attacked then has the audacity to play the victim 😶😐.
Aiden leaving her on the island and then lied that he didn't see her😐. I don't know how these two are going to be redeemed because currently they're pissing me off 😭🚶🏾♀️.
These two better GROVEL before she forgives them💀. Reagan keep going BADDIE💁🏾♀️♥️.
Jackson by far is my favourite because this man is OBSESSED with her. Like stalking her and making sure she's fine and killing anyone who dares to hurt her🤭💁🏾♀️. And the papér cranes he makes her 😭 cutest thing EVER👏🏾🤭.
Kellen is doing great but I didn't hear his apology to her so 😶.
Dane being the reason they're being attacked then has the audacity to play the victim 😶😐.
Aiden leaving her on the island and then lied that he didn't see her😐. I don't know how these two are going to be redeemed because currently they're pissing me off 😭🚶🏾♀️.
These two better GROVEL before she forgives them💀. Reagan keep going BADDIE💁🏾♀️♥️.
Jackson by far is my favourite because this man is OBSESSED with her. Like stalking her and making sure she's fine and killing anyone who dares to hurt her🤭💁🏾♀️. And the papér cranes he makes her 😭 cutest thing EVER👏🏾🤭.
Kellen is doing great but I didn't hear his apology to her so 😶.
October 5, 2024
Interesting read
I liked the premise, but the execution was a bit choppy. I feel like they kept going over the same past events that happen off again, and again. I started skipping over large parts of the story because of it..
It got to be tedious, along with the pages and pages of self loathing.
Also Reagan was kind of a dumbass, I mean why would you strap multiple blades on their body, but not know how to use them?
She even said if she tried to fight with her knives she'll probably cut herself! Wtf?
The guys were pretty much unlikable as well.
The only one I really liked was Elias, and the author had him pining for someone else.
Sad, this could have been great..
Not sure I'll continue though.
I liked the premise, but the execution was a bit choppy. I feel like they kept going over the same past events that happen off again, and again. I started skipping over large parts of the story because of it..
It got to be tedious, along with the pages and pages of self loathing.
Also Reagan was kind of a dumbass, I mean why would you strap multiple blades on their body, but not know how to use them?
She even said if she tried to fight with her knives she'll probably cut herself! Wtf?
The guys were pretty much unlikable as well.
The only one I really liked was Elias, and the author had him pining for someone else.
Sad, this could have been great..
Not sure I'll continue though.
September 11, 2024
Imagine X-Men, but the gifted people are being taken to be studied and used rather than being offered a safe haven, and then make it why choose. Needless to say, I really enjoyed this one!
RAVAGE is the first book in the Raegan of Ruin series, a why choose urban fantasy romance where the main conflict is between humans gifted with powers and an organization that would exploit them. The protagonist is Raegan, one of these gifted people who was raised by this organization on a remote island from a young age. Eventually Raegan is able to escape, and she makes it her life’s mission to destroy the organization. Her old friends from the island—Jackson, Kellan, Aiden and Dane—share her same goal…but unfortunately, they don’t trust her anymore after the death of one of their group, for which Raegan is responsible. THIS is cause of great distress for me.
The story has an amazing balance of romance, action and mystery. The why chooseness of it all is done very well. The author did an amazing job at showing Raegan’s special bond with all of them in the past, as well as their complicated dynamics in the present. I also love how close the guys are. It’s painful to see how (most of) them hate Raegan because they were perfect together, but it adds to the angst and we love that. The dynamics between Raegan and the guys are all unique in their own way. I’ll have great pleasure in seeing Aiden bend, and Jackson is bae because he’s the only one of the guys who never doubted Reagan and never gave up on her. And while Killian was fun, I do think he went about changing his mind a little too quickly. However, I do think that it’s well balanced out by slow burn we’ll get with Dane and Aiden.
Another aspect I loved is the mystery. We know some of what happened on the island, but we don’t have the full story. Like the boys, I really need Raegan to reveal her secrets not only to sate my own curiosity, but also so that the guys understand that their initial fate in Raegan was not misplaced, but also because I will leave for the chaos among the guys when they realize they were wrong to leave her behind—again, especially where Aiden is concerned. (Can you tell I find his character interesting? Because I do.) Especially after that cliffhanger!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
RAVAGE is the first book in the Raegan of Ruin series, a why choose urban fantasy romance where the main conflict is between humans gifted with powers and an organization that would exploit them. The protagonist is Raegan, one of these gifted people who was raised by this organization on a remote island from a young age. Eventually Raegan is able to escape, and she makes it her life’s mission to destroy the organization. Her old friends from the island—Jackson, Kellan, Aiden and Dane—share her same goal…but unfortunately, they don’t trust her anymore after the death of one of their group, for which Raegan is responsible. THIS is cause of great distress for me.
The story has an amazing balance of romance, action and mystery. The why chooseness of it all is done very well. The author did an amazing job at showing Raegan’s special bond with all of them in the past, as well as their complicated dynamics in the present. I also love how close the guys are. It’s painful to see how (most of) them hate Raegan because they were perfect together, but it adds to the angst and we love that. The dynamics between Raegan and the guys are all unique in their own way. I’ll have great pleasure in seeing Aiden bend, and Jackson is bae because he’s the only one of the guys who never doubted Reagan and never gave up on her. And while Killian was fun, I do think he went about changing his mind a little too quickly. However, I do think that it’s well balanced out by slow burn we’ll get with Dane and Aiden.
Another aspect I loved is the mystery. We know some of what happened on the island, but we don’t have the full story. Like the boys, I really need Raegan to reveal her secrets not only to sate my own curiosity, but also so that the guys understand that their initial fate in Raegan was not misplaced, but also because I will leave for the chaos among the guys when they realize they were wrong to leave her behind—again, especially where Aiden is concerned. (Can you tell I find his character interesting? Because I do.) Especially after that cliffhanger!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
February 10, 2025
That grovel that is coming is going to be intense 😌.
This was so good. Like couldn't put it down once I started it good. It's almost 3 in the morning and I've already downloaded book two because that ending was cruel and I need to know what happens next 😭
This was so good. Like couldn't put it down once I started it good. It's almost 3 in the morning and I've already downloaded book two because that ending was cruel and I need to know what happens next 😭
March 11, 2025
I breezed through this why choose dark paranormal romance and I really enjoyed it. The characters, storyline and world building really had my attention from the get-go.
I was very intrigued with the whole concept of people with special abilities being taken by a company that targets people with these gifts and using them for their own purposes.
I think my favorite part of the book was the interesting and complex dynamic between the characters. I liked getting glimpses into the past and seeing how it all tied into their relationships as it stands presently in the story.
Read this if you like:
✨ Multiple POV
✨ Found Family
✨ He Falls First
✨ Enemies to Lovers
Thank you @thenerdfam for the gifted copy of the book.
I was very intrigued with the whole concept of people with special abilities being taken by a company that targets people with these gifts and using them for their own purposes.
I think my favorite part of the book was the interesting and complex dynamic between the characters. I liked getting glimpses into the past and seeing how it all tied into their relationships as it stands presently in the story.
Read this if you like:
✨ Multiple POV
✨ Found Family
✨ He Falls First
✨ Enemies to Lovers
Thank you @thenerdfam for the gifted copy of the book.
Read
February 10, 2025I blew through this book so quickly. Ordering book two today!
- Perfect for fans of Broken Bonds by J Bree and Dark Fae by the twisted sisters
- Why chooose
- Second chance romance
- Paranormal romance
- Supernatural powers
- Betrayal
- 18+ and be aware there is mention of SA
- Perfect for fans of Broken Bonds by J Bree and Dark Fae by the twisted sisters
- Why chooose
- Second chance romance
- Paranormal romance
- Supernatural powers
- Betrayal
- 18+ and be aware there is mention of SA
August 24, 2024
First of all I want to say thank you to the author for this chance to do an ARC read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily with my own opinion of course.
I wasn't actually sure how to rate this since I didn't love it but I didn't dislike it either, but I'll go with 3 stars.
Let's start with what I liked:
•the powers. I thought this was very unique, and I really liked the aspects of them having powers, like another comment said it kinda reminds you of mutans.
•the fmc, she's a total badass and she doesn't apologize for it, she was instantly my fav in this book
•Jackson & Kellan were definitely my fav of the guys, if you know you know
OKAY SO THERE WILL BE SPOILERS BELOW, DON'T SCROLL DOWN IF YOU DON'T WANT TO READ THEM , ILL MAKE SPACE SO YOU CAN AVOID THEM IF YOU WANT TO:
what I didn't like:
•Aiden & Dane but mostly Aiden, he left her on an island to get tortured & he doesn't even feel bad about it. He slutshamed her, he degraded her at any chance, he really gives me the ick, like he was intimate with the fmc & in the next day he slutshamed her. (In my eyes it's slutshaming when he accused her of trying to sleep with that politician for information, when she never even said that happened). I actually liked Dane better, he had a reason for being angry & yes he made a mistake but at least he regretted it. Aiden doesn't even regret leaving her behind & lying to everyone
•Also I didn't like how little development happened between them, istg she & Aiden had the same conversation several times
"Are you working for them"
"No"
"I don't believe you, we can't trust you"
It got annoying at some point
Other thoughts I had was that I wished we saw more of the guys pov, I think it would have been more interesting. I also didn't love the flashbacks all the time, I'd rather see everything from the past at once & then the present. But that's just my preference
I also want to see Dane & Aiden almost grovel a bit in the next book because I think she deserves that from them. I think the way the guys handled or ignored her trauma was very distasteful, they only cared about themselves not her. So yeah I definitely want an upgrade in how they are treating her, & I'm sick of them saying they don't trust her, she shouldn't trust them. It got a bit repetitive imo there. It ends on a pretty big cliffhanger so beware.
I wasn't actually sure how to rate this since I didn't love it but I didn't dislike it either, but I'll go with 3 stars.
Let's start with what I liked:
•the powers. I thought this was very unique, and I really liked the aspects of them having powers, like another comment said it kinda reminds you of mutans.
•the fmc, she's a total badass and she doesn't apologize for it, she was instantly my fav in this book
•Jackson & Kellan were definitely my fav of the guys, if you know you know
OKAY SO THERE WILL BE SPOILERS BELOW, DON'T SCROLL DOWN IF YOU DON'T WANT TO READ THEM , ILL MAKE SPACE SO YOU CAN AVOID THEM IF YOU WANT TO:
what I didn't like:
•Aiden & Dane but mostly Aiden, he left her on an island to get tortured & he doesn't even feel bad about it. He slutshamed her, he degraded her at any chance, he really gives me the ick, like he was intimate with the fmc & in the next day he slutshamed her. (In my eyes it's slutshaming when he accused her of trying to sleep with that politician for information, when she never even said that happened). I actually liked Dane better, he had a reason for being angry & yes he made a mistake but at least he regretted it. Aiden doesn't even regret leaving her behind & lying to everyone
•Also I didn't like how little development happened between them, istg she & Aiden had the same conversation several times
"Are you working for them"
"No"
"I don't believe you, we can't trust you"
It got annoying at some point
Other thoughts I had was that I wished we saw more of the guys pov, I think it would have been more interesting. I also didn't love the flashbacks all the time, I'd rather see everything from the past at once & then the present. But that's just my preference
I also want to see Dane & Aiden almost grovel a bit in the next book because I think she deserves that from them. I think the way the guys handled or ignored her trauma was very distasteful, they only cared about themselves not her. So yeah I definitely want an upgrade in how they are treating her, & I'm sick of them saying they don't trust her, she shouldn't trust them. It got a bit repetitive imo there. It ends on a pretty big cliffhanger so beware.
February 16, 2025
I really think this has the potential to be good but it just did not hit the mark for me unfortunately. I hate to say that I was a little bored with it and found myself forcefully reading it. I’m torn between rating this a 3 or 3.5.
The characters were written well but the plot needs just a bit of work and not feel so dragged on.
Off topic from the writing but I wanted to mention how much I love the cover of this book. You don’t see art like this on fantasy books anymore. Thought that was great!
I would also like to thank the nerd fam and the author for this gifted book. I will be checking out the authors other work.
The characters were written well but the plot needs just a bit of work and not feel so dragged on.
Off topic from the writing but I wanted to mention how much I love the cover of this book. You don’t see art like this on fantasy books anymore. Thought that was great!
I would also like to thank the nerd fam and the author for this gifted book. I will be checking out the authors other work.
December 15, 2024
DNF at 33%.FMC is kinda pathetic tbh
July 13, 2025
What an explosive start to an intriguing series!
Ravage by A.L. Rook kicked off with Raegan, a tough-as-nails heroine, arriving in a new city following the trail of Gifted Enterprise, the shady organization that'd kidnapped her as a kid, failed to brainwash her, and later abused her until she'd managed to escape. Now, at 22 years old, she was a one-woman team out for their blood.
But she wasn't the only one. Aiden, Kellan, Jack, and Dane, the guys who'd been her closest and best friends once upon a time—until they'd turned their backs on her and broken her heart—were on the same mission, and it was only a matter of time until their courses collided.
For a debut novel, A.L. Rook came out swinging. The angst, the drama, the secrets, the danger... it was all there.
One of my favorite things about this book was how different and singular each of the guys' personalities were, and how that influenced and affected Raegan's relationship and interactions with each of them. Jack was the silent and subdued, but intense and stalkerish one, who spoke to her bloodthirsty side. Kellan was the daredevil of the group and the one that brought out her mischievous side. Aiden was the rigid leader, and the one she liked to rebel against and butted heads with. And Dane was the mother hen of the group, her movie night buddy, and the one that'd been the emotional anchor, at least until her relationship with all of them fractured.
The story flew by with fast pacing that kept me glued to the pages. The action scenes hit hard, the mystery kept me hooked, and the angst? Ugh, I love a good angsty romance. And with how heartbreaking the little peeks we got of Rae's dark time under GE's control were, there was no shortage of angst. Especially when these guys she'd loved wholeheartedly had believed the absolute worst of her without a second thought, and had left her behind in the hands of their enemy when she'd needed them the most.
However, even with how well the writing flowed and how engaging it was, I occasionally ended up pulled out of the story. There were times when I had to re-read certain passages because they didn't follow the logical structure my brain expected, and so they didn't make sense to me on the first pass. And these quirks derailed my immersion, which is why I'm docking a star.
Still, Ravage was a solid introduction to a very complex, very twisted world of evil organizations and hidden humans with special powers of all sorts. There's definitely much more story to be told yet, starting with the big mystery of what happened on that fateful day that triggered the implosion of Raegan and the guys. And there's much rebuilding of trust to be done still between all of them—which I hope will come with a healthy dose of apologetic grovelling from a couple of them (I'm mainly looking at you, Aiden, you dick).
For a first-time author, A.L. Rook nailed the world-building and character chemistry, and I'm super intrigued to see where else the story will take us after that cliffhanger ending!
did-not-finish
July 31, 2025DNF'd at 37%. I just didn't care. And also, FMC has the same name and spelling as a family member. Pass, sorry.
February 24, 2025
A bit amateurish. The dialogue is unrealistic, stilted, and there are multiple instances of bungled phrases. She once says that she won’t look a gift horse in the face, which seems quite rude when it’s only the mouth you really have to worry about.
There are random spikes of quality writing that make the rest more confusing in comparison. The sporadic flashbacks are sometimes forfeited for just saying stuff that had happened without fanfare.
I get that the characters didn’t really have a normal childhood, but I unfortunately don’t think the immature way they speak can be blamed on that. Grown men screaming crying ‘You tricked me!’ are not ones that have the reader eager to see naked or instill any optimism in the organization of their inevitable orgy. I just imagine the tantrum they’d throw, their large, bare feet stomping when they don’t get the hole they wanted, and I shudder.
Their constant undermining of her efforts and missions is infuriating. As if they haven’t already hurt her enough. And she forgets to fight back because she’s too busy ogling them? Stand up!!
One literally knocks her unconscious TWICE and the next day she agrees to go on a date with him. All I heard was gagging noises from how deep she’s.. nevermind.
It’s advertised as having banter but the only times I realized that was the dialogue’s intent was when the characters laughed after a statement that wasn’t funny. I’d just say, “Oh,” and move on.
Street racing through traffic should not be glorified. It’s incredibly dangerous for those just trying to get home and didn’t consent to be part of a deadly obstacle course. I’m all for a high stakes adrenaline rush, but not at the risk of innocents.
It’s an interesting enough premise that might be enough to convince me to read the next one, but even the cliffhanger made me wrinkle my nose. Not enough dicks were kicked for their awful attitudes & the rest of the series is wasted if the guys don’t spend it on their knees in apology.
It’s nothing I’d suggest to anyone I actually liked.
There are random spikes of quality writing that make the rest more confusing in comparison. The sporadic flashbacks are sometimes forfeited for just saying stuff that had happened without fanfare.
I get that the characters didn’t really have a normal childhood, but I unfortunately don’t think the immature way they speak can be blamed on that. Grown men screaming crying ‘You tricked me!’ are not ones that have the reader eager to see naked or instill any optimism in the organization of their inevitable orgy. I just imagine the tantrum they’d throw, their large, bare feet stomping when they don’t get the hole they wanted, and I shudder.
Their constant undermining of her efforts and missions is infuriating. As if they haven’t already hurt her enough. And she forgets to fight back because she’s too busy ogling them? Stand up!!
One literally knocks her unconscious TWICE and the next day she agrees to go on a date with him. All I heard was gagging noises from how deep she’s.. nevermind.
It’s advertised as having banter but the only times I realized that was the dialogue’s intent was when the characters laughed after a statement that wasn’t funny. I’d just say, “Oh,” and move on.
Street racing through traffic should not be glorified. It’s incredibly dangerous for those just trying to get home and didn’t consent to be part of a deadly obstacle course. I’m all for a high stakes adrenaline rush, but not at the risk of innocents.
It’s an interesting enough premise that might be enough to convince me to read the next one, but even the cliffhanger made me wrinkle my nose. Not enough dicks were kicked for their awful attitudes & the rest of the series is wasted if the guys don’t spend it on their knees in apology.
It’s nothing I’d suggest to anyone I actually liked.
June 6, 2025
DNF
I was tempted to dnf this book on the second chapter when I saw we were going six years in the past. I hate it when authors do that.
Unfortunately, I decided to go on reading. The story continued to jump from present to past and back again, giving only a hint or two of what happened. It was boring and exhausting to read.
I didn't like the heroine, too. She is prostituting herself to have a place to spend the night. This is beyond pathetic. So, I am done with this book.
I was tempted to dnf this book on the second chapter when I saw we were going six years in the past. I hate it when authors do that.
Unfortunately, I decided to go on reading. The story continued to jump from present to past and back again, giving only a hint or two of what happened. It was boring and exhausting to read.
I didn't like the heroine, too. She is prostituting herself to have a place to spend the night. This is beyond pathetic. So, I am done with this book.
September 2, 2024
5⭐️
I have no words for how amazing this book was, I literally enjoyed every second of it. I was lucky enough to get early access to this book from signing up as an ARC reader and I have no regrets! It had me going through so many mixed emotions with the characters. Reagan literally is one of my fav FMC’s… she wasn’t a push over but she wasn’t stuck up either and that’s an FMC I enjoy in these type of books. I do wish to see more of the MMC’s in book two since I feel like we were lacking some scenes with them. Jack and Kellan were my favourites, considering they’re the ones that just knew something was off with the whole thing and the fact that they protected her the whole time… Kellan was a bit rude in the first few chapters, but I believe he’s redeemed himself. Aiden is definitely gonna be a Dom when they finally get together, he just has Dom vibes all over him and I’m here for it. He definitely has lots of stuff to work on to redeem himself, but I’m sure we’ll get there in book two. Dane however… he got on my nerves the whole time, and honestly I was hoping Reagan would just punch him out😅
And honestly I’m hoping they get rid of Vera again, I couldn’t stand her in the scenes from the past.
I have no words for how amazing this book was, I literally enjoyed every second of it. I was lucky enough to get early access to this book from signing up as an ARC reader and I have no regrets! It had me going through so many mixed emotions with the characters. Reagan literally is one of my fav FMC’s… she wasn’t a push over but she wasn’t stuck up either and that’s an FMC I enjoy in these type of books. I do wish to see more of the MMC’s in book two since I feel like we were lacking some scenes with them. Jack and Kellan were my favourites, considering they’re the ones that just knew something was off with the whole thing and the fact that they protected her the whole time… Kellan was a bit rude in the first few chapters, but I believe he’s redeemed himself. Aiden is definitely gonna be a Dom when they finally get together, he just has Dom vibes all over him and I’m here for it. He definitely has lots of stuff to work on to redeem himself, but I’m sure we’ll get there in book two. Dane however… he got on my nerves the whole time, and honestly I was hoping Reagan would just punch him out😅
And honestly I’m hoping they get rid of Vera again, I couldn’t stand her in the scenes from the past.
Read
October 4, 2024DNF at 75%
Our intrepid FMC decided to do the same idiot thing, again, and take along a completely untrained civilian with her and somehow thought her mission would be successful... Of all the stupid, selfish bullshit.
Let's run off and pull on op on a guy we know is in cahoots with the big bad with no backup, dragging along someone with no skill set for the job. If I'm being honest, most of the FMC's action plans were under researched, unprepared, idiocy. Let's just use ourselves as bait and hope for the best with no plan.
Two of the love interests were interesting characters, while the other two pretty meh. One came off pretty whiney, only somewhat justifiably. The other had more stubbornness than sense. He might have felt justified, but he lied to and manipulated his "brothers".
This author isn't a bad writer, from a technical standpoint, but the plotting needed work. Having the main character try to be such a badass only to screw the pooch repeatedly doesn't really sell it.
Our intrepid FMC decided to do the same idiot thing, again, and take along a completely untrained civilian with her and somehow thought her mission would be successful... Of all the stupid, selfish bullshit.
Let's run off and pull on op on a guy we know is in cahoots with the big bad with no backup, dragging along someone with no skill set for the job. If I'm being honest, most of the FMC's action plans were under researched, unprepared, idiocy. Let's just use ourselves as bait and hope for the best with no plan.
Two of the love interests were interesting characters, while the other two pretty meh. One came off pretty whiney, only somewhat justifiably. The other had more stubbornness than sense. He might have felt justified, but he lied to and manipulated his "brothers".
This author isn't a bad writer, from a technical standpoint, but the plotting needed work. Having the main character try to be such a badass only to screw the pooch repeatedly doesn't really sell it.
November 18, 2024
Mad!
I’m so mad and upset at this book! Ugh it had so much potential and all for nothing! Like how oh how and why did you make Reagan so weak😒 like seriously how does she have this amazing powers and it’s all for nothing?! She can’t fight don’t use her powers and lets these guys walk all over her. Like the first time you see Aiden again after he did what he did to you and you get all goofy over him and the way he feel and smells like BSFFRRN ughh..It was so easy for him and all of them to just leave her and all for what?! I love Kell and Jack but man there is literally NOTHING that I read that will make me ever like or forgive Aiden and Dane. I don’t care! They treated her and continued to treat her like dirt. She went through so much and to keep them all save and what does she get?! Ugh I’m over it
I’m so mad and upset at this book! Ugh it had so much potential and all for nothing! Like how oh how and why did you make Reagan so weak😒 like seriously how does she have this amazing powers and it’s all for nothing?! She can’t fight don’t use her powers and lets these guys walk all over her. Like the first time you see Aiden again after he did what he did to you and you get all goofy over him and the way he feel and smells like BSFFRRN ughh..It was so easy for him and all of them to just leave her and all for what?! I love Kell and Jack but man there is literally NOTHING that I read that will make me ever like or forgive Aiden and Dane. I don’t care! They treated her and continued to treat her like dirt. She went through so much and to keep them all save and what does she get?! Ugh I’m over it
October 3, 2024
only one guy was worthy of her feelings.
Two of these guys were pretty lame. But of course she’s so hot for them when she thinks they are going to kill her. So it’s ok.
Two of these guys were pretty lame. But of course she’s so hot for them when she thinks they are going to kill her. So it’s ok.
August 27, 2024
I really liked the characters. You could see the tension between Raegan and the guys with a knife. I didn't know if they were going to kiss each other or kill each other, probably both, haha. Rae seemed more normal than expected but I liked her. She's too hard on herself about what happened and the guys should have been better about things. I have my issues with all of them, well except for Jackson, he's the psycho of the bunch and my favorite. His obsession and devotion got me. Killian and his playful behavior pulled me in later on.
The plot was great. An evil organization that takes kids with powers, nefarious things can only come about. It reminds me of one of my favorite TV series, Dark Angel starring Jessica Alba, man the series did not get the recognition it deserved. The past was told in flashbacks, this gave me a good idea right away about what's happening in the story. There was always something going on, be it intel gathering or fight scenes, the interactions between Rae and the guys, my adrenaline was going with this read. I was always waiting for what was coming around the next corner. One thing, a pretty significant plot twist that Rook just snuck in there like it wasn't a big deal, yeah right. Then there was the X-Men-like powers, they all vary and aren't typical so that adds something new.
OMG! Ravage had the best ending! Talk about a cliffhanger, it's not the kind that will kill you, just leave you begging for more. I can't wait to see what happens after that twist.
The plot was great. An evil organization that takes kids with powers, nefarious things can only come about. It reminds me of one of my favorite TV series, Dark Angel starring Jessica Alba, man the series did not get the recognition it deserved. The past was told in flashbacks, this gave me a good idea right away about what's happening in the story. There was always something going on, be it intel gathering or fight scenes, the interactions between Rae and the guys, my adrenaline was going with this read. I was always waiting for what was coming around the next corner. One thing, a pretty significant plot twist that Rook just snuck in there like it wasn't a big deal, yeah right. Then there was the X-Men-like powers, they all vary and aren't typical so that adds something new.
OMG! Ravage had the best ending! Talk about a cliffhanger, it's not the kind that will kill you, just leave you begging for more. I can't wait to see what happens after that twist.
May 8, 2025
well I deeply enjoyed that! this has HUGE x-men vibes, but grittier and much more morally gray. I was absolutely obsessed with x-men for years once upon a time, so reading this felt a lot like coming home, in a weird way.
I don't remember the last time characterization and dialogue felt so natural. this was such a relief after so much awkwardness I've been trying to look past in other books. I love the relationship dynamics between FMC and all the MMCs, and how each one is very different - and I especially love how VERY REAL FMC's trauma felt. that was... hard to read at certain points. it hit very close to home and actually affected me in an almost triggering manner, which is how I know it was done well lol.
the whole plot conflict being based on keeping a giant secret and just not explaining the truth behind past events felt... underwhelming. at best. the whole time you're almost yelling at Raegan "JUST TELL THEM FFS" but - here we are. most of the MMCs seem to be finding out anyway, though, and I suppose if lack of communication MUST be used as a plot point, it's handled well here at least.
and Raegan definitely grated on me sometimes. she seems to chameleon into someone different to be the best girl for each MMC, and sometimes says and does... stupid things. it's very obvious that she's young, but it's probably played up on purpose to make you want her with the MMCs to round her out and keep her from doing those things.
CLIFFHANGER ENDING THO. AGH. BIGTIME. be prepared for that rofl. at least the second book is already out! and a third book is coming out soon too I think??
(fwiw I can't tell if my favorite MMC is Jackson or Kellan 👀)
I don't remember the last time characterization and dialogue felt so natural. this was such a relief after so much awkwardness I've been trying to look past in other books. I love the relationship dynamics between FMC and all the MMCs, and how each one is very different - and I especially love how VERY REAL FMC's trauma felt. that was... hard to read at certain points. it hit very close to home and actually affected me in an almost triggering manner, which is how I know it was done well lol.
the whole plot conflict being based on keeping a giant secret and just not explaining the truth behind past events felt... underwhelming. at best. the whole time you're almost yelling at Raegan "JUST TELL THEM FFS" but - here we are. most of the MMCs seem to be finding out anyway, though, and I suppose if lack of communication MUST be used as a plot point, it's handled well here at least.
and Raegan definitely grated on me sometimes. she seems to chameleon into someone different to be the best girl for each MMC, and sometimes says and does... stupid things. it's very obvious that she's young, but it's probably played up on purpose to make you want her with the MMCs to round her out and keep her from doing those things.
CLIFFHANGER ENDING THO. AGH. BIGTIME. be prepared for that rofl. at least the second book is already out! and a third book is coming out soon too I think??
(fwiw I can't tell if my favorite MMC is Jackson or Kellan 👀)
August 26, 2024
RAVAGE by A.L. Rook has me in an absolute chokehold and I don't think I'll be able to breathe until I get to read the next book! 🤯 The setting, storyline, world building and characters are AMAZING! I loved the multiple POV aspect of this book and being able to see the story come to life in so many different characters' eyes. Reagan is a bad@$$ FMC and has been forced to live an insane life. The guys and everything that they have been through with her and on their own is absolutely crazy. It gives anger, angst, lust, spiciness, and heartbreaking scenes. I'm literally at a loss for words, other than this read is incredible!! All the twists, turns, surprises and action, had me hooked from the very first page. And the cliffhanger ending has my jaw still dropped! I cannot wait to see how Raegan and Dane handle this in the next book. If you're into humans with superpowers taking on the people who have wronged them, and reverse harem with previous childhood friends to enemies to lovers, this is for you! 💕
⭐5/5
🌶️3/5
⭐"All I bring with me is chaos and destruction. I am the villain in this story."⭐
⭐5/5
🌶️3/5
⭐"All I bring with me is chaos and destruction. I am the villain in this story."⭐
June 22, 2025
This was a TikTok rec. Why choose romance.
Premise: FMC has special powers and was kidnapped by a shadow organization at 8 years old. She forms a bond with 4 others guys. Something happens and she’s torn from them and she kills the sister of one of those boys, of course she didn’t want to kill her but the organization then tells the guys what she did and even though they know this organization is bad they believe all of it and now hate her and want to hunt her down. Fast forward she’s on the run from not only the organization but the boys she “betrayed”. And 3 out of 4 hate her.
I could not finish this book because it was filled with so much “if only they knew the truth, but I cannot tell them because it’s too late for me, I’ll be their villain if it keeps them safe” it was the miscommunication trope on steroids. The characters were young and I felt every bit of that in the writing. Also I struggled with the “longing “ the FMC had. “My body this, my body that, but I can’t” it was so immature. I honestly pictured the girl putting her hand across her forehead and sighing.
Premise: FMC has special powers and was kidnapped by a shadow organization at 8 years old. She forms a bond with 4 others guys. Something happens and she’s torn from them and she kills the sister of one of those boys, of course she didn’t want to kill her but the organization then tells the guys what she did and even though they know this organization is bad they believe all of it and now hate her and want to hunt her down. Fast forward she’s on the run from not only the organization but the boys she “betrayed”. And 3 out of 4 hate her.
I could not finish this book because it was filled with so much “if only they knew the truth, but I cannot tell them because it’s too late for me, I’ll be their villain if it keeps them safe” it was the miscommunication trope on steroids. The characters were young and I felt every bit of that in the writing. Also I struggled with the “longing “ the FMC had. “My body this, my body that, but I can’t” it was so immature. I honestly pictured the girl putting her hand across her forehead and sighing.
August 24, 2024
*ARC READ*
Wow this book was amazing! The A.L. Rook truly knows how to rope in a reader! Jackson and Kellan are my soulmates. (Leaning more toward Kellan, but Jackson is still great!) I feel like I got to know all of the characters pretty well. However Rae, Aiden, and Dane took a little bit more to absolutely love. I’m hoping in the 2nd book we get a bit more character building for them.
I definitely would recommend this to anyone and everyone! It’s a good touch of everything. Why choose, second chance, kind of got the vibe of instalove and a slow burn all at once. I can’t wait to read the 2nd book!!
Wow this book was amazing! The A.L. Rook truly knows how to rope in a reader! Jackson and Kellan are my soulmates. (Leaning more toward Kellan, but Jackson is still great!) I feel like I got to know all of the characters pretty well. However Rae, Aiden, and Dane took a little bit more to absolutely love. I’m hoping in the 2nd book we get a bit more character building for them.
I definitely would recommend this to anyone and everyone! It’s a good touch of everything. Why choose, second chance, kind of got the vibe of instalove and a slow burn all at once. I can’t wait to read the 2nd book!!
January 12, 2025
pulled me out of a minor, self-induced book slump (i’ve recently bitten off more than i can chew but idc) but either way this was so so so good like i couldn’t put it down. the fact that the plot twists (yes, plural!!) were really well spread out i thought & while the relationships are developing, they aren’t instalove/enemies for .2 secs before getting together made me eat this up fr
September 22, 2024
This was my first read from this author and I am obsessed!! This book starts off at full speed and never ends until the delicious cliffhanger.
Raegan, who is one of many gifted and is on a mission to end Gifted Enterprise corporation. They steal kids and people for their gifts and keep them secluded on an island. She is dealing with trauma from her past still things about her friends Dane, Aiden, Kellan, and Jackson that left her. Kellan and Jackson have always loved Reagan and will do anything to keep her safe. Dane and Aiden on the other hand, are still angry with her and refuse to let Reagan back into their friend group they once had on the island. Not wanting to reveal her secrets, she let's them believe what they want. Until they call a truce and team up to put an end to GE for good.
I beta read this book and had to read it again, it is that good!! Steamy spice and the mystery of the gifted kept me wanting more. I will definitely be reading the next book!!
Raegan, who is one of many gifted and is on a mission to end Gifted Enterprise corporation. They steal kids and people for their gifts and keep them secluded on an island. She is dealing with trauma from her past still things about her friends Dane, Aiden, Kellan, and Jackson that left her. Kellan and Jackson have always loved Reagan and will do anything to keep her safe. Dane and Aiden on the other hand, are still angry with her and refuse to let Reagan back into their friend group they once had on the island. Not wanting to reveal her secrets, she let's them believe what they want. Until they call a truce and team up to put an end to GE for good.
I beta read this book and had to read it again, it is that good!! Steamy spice and the mystery of the gifted kept me wanting more. I will definitely be reading the next book!!
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