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Oralia Solis hasn’t felt the touch of another in 245 years. Not without them crumbling to ash at her feet. Cursed by the bite of a daemoni, she has been sequestered away for the greater good of Aethera by her adopted father, King Typhon.
King Renwick rules the rival kingdom of Infernis, the land of the dead. When Oralia flees the palace of Aethera after her power is let loose with deadly results, he recognizes her potential as a weapon and aids her escape.
Oralia finds herself the prisoner of the man she has been taught to fear most, and Renwick is surprised to find there is more to this princess than her untamed powers. Despite the gulf of secrets and magic between them, Renwick can’t deny the pull he feels towards her, and Oralia struggles to resist the one person who cannot only survive her touch, but craves it.
As Oralia uncovers the truth of her parentage and masters her magic, she will discover that the power to raze or save either Aethera or Infernis lies in her hands. War between the two kingdoms looms and she must decide who she can trust and which she wants more: power or love.
King Renwick rules the rival kingdom of Infernis, the land of the dead. When Oralia flees the palace of Aethera after her power is let loose with deadly results, he recognizes her potential as a weapon and aids her escape.
Oralia finds herself the prisoner of the man she has been taught to fear most, and Renwick is surprised to find there is more to this princess than her untamed powers. Despite the gulf of secrets and magic between them, Renwick can’t deny the pull he feels towards her, and Oralia struggles to resist the one person who cannot only survive her touch, but craves it.
As Oralia uncovers the truth of her parentage and masters her magic, she will discover that the power to raze or save either Aethera or Infernis lies in her hands. War between the two kingdoms looms and she must decide who she can trust and which she wants more: power or love.
388 pages, ebook
Published October 15, 2024
1046 people are currently reading
14246 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 393 reviews
November 10, 2024
I was lucky enough to alpha read for this and let me just say that y’all are not ready!!!!!! 🤩
"You look at me as if I'm the brightest star in the sky."
"You're not just a star . . . You are the whole damned universe."
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ romantasy
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ touch starved FMC
✨ touch averse MMC
✨ shadow daddy AND shadow mommy
✨ forced proximity
✨ slow burn
✨ 3/5 spice 🌶️
✨ loss of virginity
✨ touch her and 💀
✨ light & dark magic
✨ gods x humans x souls
✨ mysteries and lies
✨ found family
✨ LGBTQIA rep
✨ mythology inspired
✨ dual POV
Blurb:
Oralia Solis has not felt the touch of another in 245 years, not without them crumbling to ash at her feet. But when she is taken to the kingdom of the dead, she finds the first person in her entire existence that she can touch… Only to realize it’s the god she has been taught to fear her whole life.
My Thoughts:
Add this to your TBR immediately! 🤩
Ruin is a mesmerizing retelling of the Hades and Persephone that will pull you in from the very first page. The romance between Ren and Oralia crackles with tension and undeniable chemistry, but it’s their individual journeys—of healing, self-discovery, and transformation—that truly make this story unforgettable. With its perfect balance of emotional depth, slow-burning romance, and enchanting world-building, Ruin is a book you won’t want to put down once you start.
So if you're looking for a new and exciting romantasy, be sure to check out Ruin!
Gillian, I am so incredibly proud of you! The time, energy, and effort you've put into writing and self-publishing Ruin over these past two years definitely paid off. Ruin is a captivating story that I know will resonate with so many. You are such a talented writer and storyteller, and I can't wait to see what the future holds! Love you so much babe!
"You look at me as if I'm the brightest star in the sky."
"You're not just a star . . . You are the whole damned universe."
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ romantasy
✨ enemies to lovers
✨ touch starved FMC
✨ touch averse MMC
✨ shadow daddy AND shadow mommy
✨ forced proximity
✨ slow burn
✨ 3/5 spice 🌶️
✨ loss of virginity
✨ touch her and 💀
✨ light & dark magic
✨ gods x humans x souls
✨ mysteries and lies
✨ found family
✨ LGBTQIA rep
✨ mythology inspired
✨ dual POV
Blurb:
Oralia Solis has not felt the touch of another in 245 years, not without them crumbling to ash at her feet. But when she is taken to the kingdom of the dead, she finds the first person in her entire existence that she can touch… Only to realize it’s the god she has been taught to fear her whole life.
My Thoughts:
Add this to your TBR immediately! 🤩
Ruin is a mesmerizing retelling of the Hades and Persephone that will pull you in from the very first page. The romance between Ren and Oralia crackles with tension and undeniable chemistry, but it’s their individual journeys—of healing, self-discovery, and transformation—that truly make this story unforgettable. With its perfect balance of emotional depth, slow-burning romance, and enchanting world-building, Ruin is a book you won’t want to put down once you start.
So if you're looking for a new and exciting romantasy, be sure to check out Ruin!
Gillian, I am so incredibly proud of you! The time, energy, and effort you've put into writing and self-publishing Ruin over these past two years definitely paid off. Ruin is a captivating story that I know will resonate with so many. You are such a talented writer and storyteller, and I can't wait to see what the future holds! Love you so much babe!
May 26, 2024
Well welll welll…am I completely wrong or did the author also write Mon Couteau Aiguise???
Because if yes- I support almost everything a fellow Dramione lover wants to achieve. Allll the loveeeeeee…really want to read it now ❤️🫶🏼
Because if yes- I support almost everything a fellow Dramione lover wants to achieve. Allll the loveeeeeee…really want to read it now ❤️🫶🏼
October 9, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ RTC
October 15, 2024
Ruin is a wonderful debut for Gillian Eliza West and it left me panting for more. I am also terrified about what's coming next but Oralia and Ren had me in a choke hold by the end. I will be waiting anxiously for book two.
I already knew this author could write based on some of her previously unpublished writings I have sampled. One of which was actually in my Top 10 reads last year. Ruin had many nods to other Fantasy worlds I love yet brought a beautiful story that was fresh and unique in ways too.
If you love Hades and Persephone tales and ACOMAF (Yes, I KNOW everyone says every new fantasy reminds them of ACOMAF, but when you read this you will see what I mean!) I think you have a good chance of liking this.
We got the Shadow Daddy that is Ren, who looks after the dead who come through his kingdom of Infernis. He is a misunderstood god who has been rivals with King Typhon of Aethera for centuries. Ren is feared in that kingdom and all who live there believe the rumors that he is evil.
Oralia is a ward of King Typhon and she has been raised in fear of her "death touch" since she was five years old. She has not known the warmth and comfort of another in 245 years. She's also heard the tales of King of Infernis and has no reason to doubt them. Yet when she flees Aethera after her power is set loose, with deadly results, she finds herself held prisoner by her enemy.
This is when we see some of those classic and well loved dynamics start to play out. Because there is SO much more to Ren and his kingdom. There's also something very special about Ren... she can touch him without fear of his destruction. She'd been told to be his enemy but as she learns the truth of her family's history and the battle between the two kingdoms... she's gonna learn she's had things all wrong.
The chemistry between them was sizzling! The pull is magnetic and the more time they spend together... the explosion is inevitable. It was a medium slow burn and they spend a good amount of time learning each other before it boils over... These two have both been isolated from intimacy, for different reasons, so it was so beautiful to see them both find connection.
I'm so intrigued to learn more about what Oralia can do and I can't wait to see that MFer in Aethera gets what's coming to him! I need them to bring the pain to King Typhon. He is such a snake!
I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading this. I highly recommend it to fans of Romantasy, Hades & Persephone, and Enemies to Lovers.
5 stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: death, torture, violence
*Thank you to the Nerd Fam and the author for an ARC of this title.*
I already knew this author could write based on some of her previously unpublished writings I have sampled. One of which was actually in my Top 10 reads last year. Ruin had many nods to other Fantasy worlds I love yet brought a beautiful story that was fresh and unique in ways too.
If you love Hades and Persephone tales and ACOMAF (Yes, I KNOW everyone says every new fantasy reminds them of ACOMAF, but when you read this you will see what I mean!) I think you have a good chance of liking this.
We got the Shadow Daddy that is Ren, who looks after the dead who come through his kingdom of Infernis. He is a misunderstood god who has been rivals with King Typhon of Aethera for centuries. Ren is feared in that kingdom and all who live there believe the rumors that he is evil.
Oralia is a ward of King Typhon and she has been raised in fear of her "death touch" since she was five years old. She has not known the warmth and comfort of another in 245 years. She's also heard the tales of King of Infernis and has no reason to doubt them. Yet when she flees Aethera after her power is set loose, with deadly results, she finds herself held prisoner by her enemy.
This is when we see some of those classic and well loved dynamics start to play out. Because there is SO much more to Ren and his kingdom. There's also something very special about Ren... she can touch him without fear of his destruction. She'd been told to be his enemy but as she learns the truth of her family's history and the battle between the two kingdoms... she's gonna learn she's had things all wrong.
The chemistry between them was sizzling! The pull is magnetic and the more time they spend together... the explosion is inevitable. It was a medium slow burn and they spend a good amount of time learning each other before it boils over... These two have both been isolated from intimacy, for different reasons, so it was so beautiful to see them both find connection.
I'm so intrigued to learn more about what Oralia can do and I can't wait to see that MFer in Aethera gets what's coming to him! I need them to bring the pain to King Typhon. He is such a snake!
I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading this. I highly recommend it to fans of Romantasy, Hades & Persephone, and Enemies to Lovers.
5 stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: death, torture, violence
*Thank you to the Nerd Fam and the author for an ARC of this title.*
September 26, 2024
Omg y’all. If you like fantasy mixed with romance, this is the one for you. The absolute perfect enemies to lovers. I absolutely loved Ren & Oralia’s story. I cannot wait for book 2 to come out so we can see the rest of their story unfold. Along with how they will get through all of the trials that are set in front of them. For those who like spice, this is the perfect amount of plot & spice 😉
Little side note, Sidero is probably one of my most favorite side characters ever. I cannot want to see them in the next book as well.
Little side note, Sidero is probably one of my most favorite side characters ever. I cannot want to see them in the next book as well.
Read
March 24, 2025“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙧𝙖𝙬𝙡 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙠𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙮 𝙪𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙤𝙪𝙩.”
A princess cursed to hold the power of both life and death, a lonely existence, forbidden to leave the castle grounds or touch another for over 200 years.
A king with a heart is as icy as his exterior, darkness personified, a tortured soul born of the most beautiful nightmares.
After a an explosion of her power ends in tragedy, Oralia flees the castle in a desperate attempt to escape her father’s wrath. As she tries to break through the wards she’s met by the under king. While shes given refuge in his kingdom, she’s not quite sure if the King of the dead is her savior or captor.
Ruin is like Beauty & the Beast meets Hades and Persephone. There is a beautiful darkness about the story that pairs perfectly with its endearing charm. I am blown away by the depth of Gillian’s writing — her immersive world and heartfelt characters had me emotionally invested from page one.
It is a slow burn romantasy, enemies to lovers, with immersive world building, immaculate vibes, found family, a little touch her and 💀 and lotsssss of angst.
What to expect:
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Touch averse MMC
✨Touch starved FMC
✨Diverse supporting cast
✨Shadow mommy
✨Angst
✨Slow burn with a payoff
✨Touch her and 💀
✨Immaculate vibes
I think this will be an absolute hit with the romantasy girlies. Give it a read to find out if Oralia will be the realm’s salvation or the ruin of them all.
A princess cursed to hold the power of both life and death, a lonely existence, forbidden to leave the castle grounds or touch another for over 200 years.
A king with a heart is as icy as his exterior, darkness personified, a tortured soul born of the most beautiful nightmares.
After a an explosion of her power ends in tragedy, Oralia flees the castle in a desperate attempt to escape her father’s wrath. As she tries to break through the wards she’s met by the under king. While shes given refuge in his kingdom, she’s not quite sure if the King of the dead is her savior or captor.
Ruin is like Beauty & the Beast meets Hades and Persephone. There is a beautiful darkness about the story that pairs perfectly with its endearing charm. I am blown away by the depth of Gillian’s writing — her immersive world and heartfelt characters had me emotionally invested from page one.
It is a slow burn romantasy, enemies to lovers, with immersive world building, immaculate vibes, found family, a little touch her and 💀 and lotsssss of angst.
What to expect:
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Touch averse MMC
✨Touch starved FMC
✨Diverse supporting cast
✨Shadow mommy
✨Angst
✨Slow burn with a payoff
✨Touch her and 💀
✨Immaculate vibes
I think this will be an absolute hit with the romantasy girlies. Give it a read to find out if Oralia will be the realm’s salvation or the ruin of them all.
October 30, 2024
I believe this is my first dnf ever at 53%. I just could not. The story has potential, but the characters have no depth, there is no character development. I enjoyed how this was written in two perspectives but one of the biggest issues for me is the lack of dialogue between the characters. The two main characters have had two pages of dialogue at the most between each other and they’re already getting sex scenes? Give me a break. Their feelings do not make sense for the amount of interaction they’ve had. There’s a lot of narrating, no talking; there’s a lot of the narrator having to explain the feelings that make absolutely zero sense, feelings that we should just understand as having been developed in a good book. Also, we get that the title of the book is Ruin, there is no need to mention the word, or to force it into a sentence in every other chapter. Seriously, usually an author mentions the title once or twice throughout the whole book and you’re like Ohhhh! Very pleasantly surprised. There no need to grill it this much.
I reaaaally wanted to like this, but I guess it’s just not my thing.
I reaaaally wanted to like this, but I guess it’s just not my thing.
October 31, 2024
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
First of all, let me just say, that Gillian deserves every accolade for publishing this incredible debut fantasy novel. Like, we knew she could write after reading her fanfic, but this was a whole new world (literally) and she absolutely crushed it.
This book had me captivated from the first chapter. Oralia and Ren were written SO well. Their chemistry is off-the-charts….I was literally panting every time they were in the same room 🥵
The world-building is lush and vivid, with the kingdoms of Aethera and Infernis feeling both so tangible and unique. AND THE SIDE CHARACTERS??? Sidero was everything to me.
If you’re into Romantasy or Hades x Persephone with star-crossed lovers, this book will totally sweep you off your feet. ❤️🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
First of all, let me just say, that Gillian deserves every accolade for publishing this incredible debut fantasy novel. Like, we knew she could write after reading her fanfic, but this was a whole new world (literally) and she absolutely crushed it.
This book had me captivated from the first chapter. Oralia and Ren were written SO well. Their chemistry is off-the-charts….I was literally panting every time they were in the same room 🥵
The world-building is lush and vivid, with the kingdoms of Aethera and Infernis feeling both so tangible and unique. AND THE SIDE CHARACTERS??? Sidero was everything to me.
If you’re into Romantasy or Hades x Persephone with star-crossed lovers, this book will totally sweep you off your feet. ❤️🔥
December 24, 2024
A stunning romantasy debut that was like if Hades x Persephone and Beauty & The Beast had a baby. (I know, say less, right??)
The world was immersive and compelling, I’ve always been a fan of Gillian’s writing from her fanfic, and this book didn’t disappoint. Somehow her writing had even more depth and feeling in this one, I ate every single page up. This quickly became a standout read for me this year. If you’re a romantasy lover, definitely give this one a try!
Read if you love:
- enemies to lovers
- touch starved main characters
- angst
- found family
- slow burn
The world was immersive and compelling, I’ve always been a fan of Gillian’s writing from her fanfic, and this book didn’t disappoint. Somehow her writing had even more depth and feeling in this one, I ate every single page up. This quickly became a standout read for me this year. If you’re a romantasy lover, definitely give this one a try!
Read if you love:
- enemies to lovers
- touch starved main characters
- angst
- found family
- slow burn
August 30, 2025
It took me forever to finish this not-that-long book, and while I can’t hold all of that against the book itself, when I did try to sit down and read it, there was just so much empty filler and blah that I found myself repeatedly bored.
The plot starts out so great and then just ends up being very surface level and basic. All of the extended characters don’t add any real value. It felt like a pretty shell of a story that didn’t get filled with any interesting characters or plot lines.
It wasn’t terribly written, but there were other aspects that felt very over-explained and redundant.
Will not be reading the sequel.
The plot starts out so great and then just ends up being very surface level and basic. All of the extended characters don’t add any real value. It felt like a pretty shell of a story that didn’t get filled with any interesting characters or plot lines.
It wasn’t terribly written, but there were other aspects that felt very over-explained and redundant.
Will not be reading the sequel.
November 28, 2024
4.5 rounded up. Mild spoilers.
Basically a Hades/Persephone retelling, Ruin is a romantasy set in a world of gods. A lot of the lore and names are taken from Greek mythology, but there also seems to be some influence from Egyptian and Norse mythos as well. It kind of felt like a Neil Gaiman book in that way.
The writing was really good. One thing I thought was weird was that Oralia forgave Ren so quickly after learning of his betrayal and that Caston forgave Oralia pretty much immediately. I guess I was expecting more conflict?
I did love the fact that both of the main characters were over 200 years old. There was still an age gap but it wasn't like she was 18.
After absolutely devouring this book, I can't wait for the next one to come out! Thank you for this gem, Gillian! Super looking forward to Reckoning this Spring :)
Would recommend ruin to fans of books like Divine Rivals, When the Moon Hatched, and any Hades/Persephone retellings.
Basically a Hades/Persephone retelling, Ruin is a romantasy set in a world of gods. A lot of the lore and names are taken from Greek mythology, but there also seems to be some influence from Egyptian and Norse mythos as well. It kind of felt like a Neil Gaiman book in that way.
The writing was really good. One thing I thought was weird was that Oralia forgave Ren so quickly after learning of his betrayal and that Caston forgave Oralia pretty much immediately. I guess I was expecting more conflict?
I did love the fact that both of the main characters were over 200 years old. There was still an age gap but it wasn't like she was 18.
After absolutely devouring this book, I can't wait for the next one to come out! Thank you for this gem, Gillian! Super looking forward to Reckoning this Spring :)
Would recommend ruin to fans of books like Divine Rivals, When the Moon Hatched, and any Hades/Persephone retellings.
October 21, 2024
Must Read for fantasy romance enjoyers
Gillian has such a masterful way with words that it's hard to believe this is only her first published book (though easier to believe when you take into account her backlog of breathtaking fanfiction works)
Most fantasy books will put its characters through trauma for their backstory and to make them seem interesting and unique but Gillian does so in a way that feels grounded in reality and serves a purpose of going on a journey to heal and come out the otherside of that grief and pain with peace and understanding. Her characters are flawed but in a way that can be understood and accepted and loved.
It means the world to me that while Oralia was unable to protect herself, she was never told that someone stronger would always be there, rather that she would one day be strong enough to do so herself.
Thank you Gillian for breathing such life into the world of Infernis. Into Renwick, our tortured simp king. Into Oralia, a FMC that always tries to take whatever hand she's given and make it work for her and those she loves. Into every page of this book.
I can not wait for the next book!!
Gillian has such a masterful way with words that it's hard to believe this is only her first published book (though easier to believe when you take into account her backlog of breathtaking fanfiction works)
Most fantasy books will put its characters through trauma for their backstory and to make them seem interesting and unique but Gillian does so in a way that feels grounded in reality and serves a purpose of going on a journey to heal and come out the otherside of that grief and pain with peace and understanding. Her characters are flawed but in a way that can be understood and accepted and loved.
It means the world to me that while Oralia was unable to protect herself, she was never told that someone stronger would always be there, rather that she would one day be strong enough to do so herself.
Thank you Gillian for breathing such life into the world of Infernis. Into Renwick, our tortured simp king. Into Oralia, a FMC that always tries to take whatever hand she's given and make it work for her and those she loves. Into every page of this book.
I can not wait for the next book!!
October 23, 2024
When I saw one of my favorite Dramione writers was putting out a book I knew it was going to be so good and it 👏🏻did 👏🏻not👏🏻disappoint👏🏻
It’s giving Hades and Persephone, it’s giving underworld, it’s giving Shadow Daddy (admit it, we need more of them), it’s giving touch her and die. If you are familiar with greek mythology at all you’re going to find you can easily slip into the familiar but find so many new things to love.
I gobbled it up and want to dive back in. I cannot wait for the second one.
It’s giving Hades and Persephone, it’s giving underworld, it’s giving Shadow Daddy (admit it, we need more of them), it’s giving touch her and die. If you are familiar with greek mythology at all you’re going to find you can easily slip into the familiar but find so many new things to love.
I gobbled it up and want to dive back in. I cannot wait for the second one.
October 15, 2024
Refreshing Romantasy Debut
I knew Gillian was going to knock this out of the park.
Ruin is well-written and enticing. It is the perfect balance of plot, intrigue, romance, and character development. There is a lot of pain and suffering wrought in this book, but I always felt a sense of hope or peace throughout every difficult moment. Gillian has always paid such attention to the way trauma appears in her books, and her meticulous attention to detail in this regard is readily apparent.
I read A LOT, and I often finish a book feeling unsatisfied. Gillian’s skill and exacting control over every element of the plot meant that every chapter and word was laden with meaning. Every moment had its place. I cannot critique any element of this story, because it was quite simply, perfect. For as much as I eagerly await the second book, this instalment did not leave me dissatisfied in any way. This book truly is a masterclass in everything I want from this genre. I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to articulate how beautifully balanced this book is, and what an absolute treasure it is.
I cannot wait to see what comes next.
I knew Gillian was going to knock this out of the park.
Ruin is well-written and enticing. It is the perfect balance of plot, intrigue, romance, and character development. There is a lot of pain and suffering wrought in this book, but I always felt a sense of hope or peace throughout every difficult moment. Gillian has always paid such attention to the way trauma appears in her books, and her meticulous attention to detail in this regard is readily apparent.
I read A LOT, and I often finish a book feeling unsatisfied. Gillian’s skill and exacting control over every element of the plot meant that every chapter and word was laden with meaning. Every moment had its place. I cannot critique any element of this story, because it was quite simply, perfect. For as much as I eagerly await the second book, this instalment did not leave me dissatisfied in any way. This book truly is a masterclass in everything I want from this genre. I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to articulate how beautifully balanced this book is, and what an absolute treasure it is.
I cannot wait to see what comes next.
June 15, 2024
I devoured this book. As a lover of everything Gillian writes I knew this was going to be no different but getting to read a world and characters that Gillian created was true magic. This book had me on the edge of my seat. The world building was easy but intricate, the characters were beautifully developed and don’t even get me started with REN. I would do anything for that man. Gillian writes spice like no other so expect delicious tension, but with a PERFECT slow burn. I’m so excited for this release and can’t wait for everyone to eat to experience the magic which is Ruin!
January 2, 2025
Some of the writing in the beginning of this book felt a little disjointed and required me to go back and re-read a lot, but as the story progressed it became more cohesive. I really loved the MMC POV - probably even more than I did out FMCs. Which didn’t surprise me, Gillian always writes really compelling MMCs (looking at you Draco). Overall pretty good for a debut! Also the spice to plot ratio was perfect!
September 12, 2024
Damn dog. Full review to come.
October 21, 2024
This book is a must read!
I just finished reading this book. Super loooove it & can’t wait for the next installment! The charcter development was chef’s 💋! I have been following her & reading her fics in AO3 & this story, as expected, was perfect! I can’t help but finish it in one sitting! Her writing enthralled me with this emotional rollercoaster of a story & can’t wait to know what will happen next. That cliffie though! 😱 I hope book 2 will come out soonest! 🙏🙏🙏 To those looking for an enemy to lover romantasy trope, with 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and a really good storyline this book is for you.
I just finished reading this book. Super loooove it & can’t wait for the next installment! The charcter development was chef’s 💋! I have been following her & reading her fics in AO3 & this story, as expected, was perfect! I can’t help but finish it in one sitting! Her writing enthralled me with this emotional rollercoaster of a story & can’t wait to know what will happen next. That cliffie though! 😱 I hope book 2 will come out soonest! 🙏🙏🙏 To those looking for an enemy to lover romantasy trope, with 🌶️🌶️🌶️ and a really good storyline this book is for you.
April 3, 2025
Легке фентезі з відтінком грецької міфології. Є боги, пророцтва, трохи романтики. Атмосфера затягує, хоч іноді не вистачає глибини. Герої приємні, сюжет цікавий, але не вибуховий.
Мені зайшло на 3.5 з 5 — читалось легко, було цікаво, але не «вау».
Чи буду продовжувати серію - ще поки не знаю. 🤷
Мені зайшло на 3.5 з 5 — читалось легко, було цікаво, але не «вау».
Чи буду продовжувати серію - ще поки не знаю. 🤷
January 27, 2025
I’m not sure why there are so many 4 and 5 star ratings. The book was just okay. I finished it and shrugged.
October 17, 2024
Oh yeah, safe to say I’m obsessed
If you're looking for you next romantasy read, it's this!!
Oralia, a young god living in Aethara, has a death touch. While she's able to bring life to many things, if she uses too much power she also brings destruction. One day, after an argument with her step father, the Golden King Typhon, Oralia escapes through the mist that separates the light from the Under King's territory. Enter Renwick, the Under King.
If you love any Hades and Persephone retelling, you'll definitely love this. While not a direct take on the story, the way the world is developed is lush and beautiful. Oralia is such a headstrong character once she breaks her shell and it's amazing to see how strong she becomes. Her longing for touch and relationships is so heartbreaking - so the found family aspect in this is so well done.
RENWICK. Add him to your shadow daddy list - because he is so so so so gooooood. Listen, I love a man down bad and Renwick definitely is. Even before he realizes that he's in love hes already spouting poetics about her. The relationship between the two really feels like a natural development, they push and pull until they are finally over the edge. Hello the library scene? Deceased.
I cannot WAIT until book two.
If you're looking for you next romantasy read, it's this!!
Oralia, a young god living in Aethara, has a death touch. While she's able to bring life to many things, if she uses too much power she also brings destruction. One day, after an argument with her step father, the Golden King Typhon, Oralia escapes through the mist that separates the light from the Under King's territory. Enter Renwick, the Under King.
If you love any Hades and Persephone retelling, you'll definitely love this. While not a direct take on the story, the way the world is developed is lush and beautiful. Oralia is such a headstrong character once she breaks her shell and it's amazing to see how strong she becomes. Her longing for touch and relationships is so heartbreaking - so the found family aspect in this is so well done.
RENWICK. Add him to your shadow daddy list - because he is so so so so gooooood. Listen, I love a man down bad and Renwick definitely is. Even before he realizes that he's in love hes already spouting poetics about her. The relationship between the two really feels like a natural development, they push and pull until they are finally over the edge. Hello the library scene? Deceased.
I cannot WAIT until book two.
February 16, 2025
Eeek. The dreaded dual POV, feels like a fairytale and... No.
This one isn't for me.
This one isn't for me.
April 28, 2025
Hades + Persephone retelling her zaman çalışır 🤩🤩
Üzerine de acotar 2 den biraz soslama hooop 🤗🤗
Üzerine de acotar 2 den biraz soslama hooop 🤗🤗
August 21, 2025
I think this author has a lot of promise. I’m aware of her from the fanfic community but I actually haven’t read much of her fanfic yet. So this is my first proper experience of her writing and she can definitely write.
However, i found this a tad confusing at times, particularly in relation to the world-building. I’m not sure if i just missed it but it took me a while to realise that this was set in a world of gods where all the characters are gods or demi-gods. For ages i just thought the two rulers of each realm were gods and the rest were humans. It wasn’t until someone mentioned going to the human realm that i realised humans were a seperate thing. I still dont really understand what the realms are or why the two god realms were fighting each other. So world-building needs work but I feel like thats a common complaint for authors transitioning from fanfic to original work.
I did find the romance a little too … mushy or sappy for my tastes. I get that they’re gods but every time one of them thought about how the other tasted or felt like the cosmos it kind of made me roll my eyes a little. So the romance wasn’t really for me and some of the writing was perhaps a bit too flowery for me. But I think overall this was a decent debut and while it didnt necessarily hit for me (and i likely wont read the sequel), i would be curious to see what else she writes.
However, i found this a tad confusing at times, particularly in relation to the world-building. I’m not sure if i just missed it but it took me a while to realise that this was set in a world of gods where all the characters are gods or demi-gods. For ages i just thought the two rulers of each realm were gods and the rest were humans. It wasn’t until someone mentioned going to the human realm that i realised humans were a seperate thing. I still dont really understand what the realms are or why the two god realms were fighting each other. So world-building needs work but I feel like thats a common complaint for authors transitioning from fanfic to original work.
I did find the romance a little too … mushy or sappy for my tastes. I get that they’re gods but every time one of them thought about how the other tasted or felt like the cosmos it kind of made me roll my eyes a little. So the romance wasn’t really for me and some of the writing was perhaps a bit too flowery for me. But I think overall this was a decent debut and while it didnt necessarily hit for me (and i likely wont read the sequel), i would be curious to see what else she writes.
September 18, 2024
First- Thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for the eARC!!
This debut novel Ruin is a fantasy romance perfect for those who love Hades and Persephone retellings-with gods and magic. Our FMC is cursed from a bite at a young age and is forced to live a life of isolation (think Elsa from Frozen). She cant touch anyone and cant be touched-when she does that person un-alives. When she is pushed to her limit, she escapes and finds the mmc. Our MMC is the Under King, ruler of the land of the dead. Over time, the secrets and lies are revealed for both characters. Emotions are high, the risks are higher by the end of book one.
It is the first book in a duology-perfect for reading fall!
I already know that I will pick this book up again for a reread!
Pre-Order now!
🖤Releases October 15, 2024!🖤
💫Slow Burn
💫Enemies to lovers
💫LGBTQIA Representation
💫Found family
💫Touch her and you 💀
💫She has never been touched
💫He is the one who can touch
💫Spicy🌶️🌶️
💫For Adults 18+
This debut novel Ruin is a fantasy romance perfect for those who love Hades and Persephone retellings-with gods and magic. Our FMC is cursed from a bite at a young age and is forced to live a life of isolation (think Elsa from Frozen). She cant touch anyone and cant be touched-when she does that person un-alives. When she is pushed to her limit, she escapes and finds the mmc. Our MMC is the Under King, ruler of the land of the dead. Over time, the secrets and lies are revealed for both characters. Emotions are high, the risks are higher by the end of book one.
It is the first book in a duology-perfect for reading fall!
I already know that I will pick this book up again for a reread!
Pre-Order now!
🖤Releases October 15, 2024!🖤
💫Slow Burn
💫Enemies to lovers
💫LGBTQIA Representation
💫Found family
💫Touch her and you 💀
💫She has never been touched
💫He is the one who can touch
💫Spicy🌶️🌶️
💫For Adults 18+
September 17, 2024
Ruin is a delightful read, perfect for fans of Hades and Persephone retellings. The plot and worldbuilding are light, making it a quick and easy-to-follow fantasy read. I loved the magic system, which doesn't surprise me as the power to control darkness is my favorite. In Ruin, however, the FMC, Oralia, can wield both the light and the dark. This power threatens King Typhon, her adopted father, and propels the narrative as she learns more about controlling her magic.
My favorite characteristic of the romance is the moment when Ren kneels for Oralia. We all love it when the MMC yields himself to the FMC, but there are several layers in this act of submission. Oralia had a rough upbringing, and it’s revealed in the first chapter that she spent many nights forced on her knees while healers attempted to rid her of her magic. These are painful and agonizing memories for Oralia, so when Ren says he wants to be the first to kneel for her willingly, I let out a small scream.
I actually first envisioned Ren, being the God of Death, this terrifying and destructive person, but through Oralia, we get to see how caring and compassionate he is. I love it when a man with a dark and intimidating title turns out to be one of the softer characters. Until anyone threatens Oralia, and that’s when Ren pulls the “touch her and die.” And, the spice was oh, so delicious. Those scenes are exciting, especially when you have a touch-starved FMC and a touch-averse MMC.
Oralia builds a lot of confidence by the end of book one, and I look forward to seeing her take on the threats surrounding her in book two.
My favorite characteristic of the romance is the moment when Ren kneels for Oralia. We all love it when the MMC yields himself to the FMC, but there are several layers in this act of submission. Oralia had a rough upbringing, and it’s revealed in the first chapter that she spent many nights forced on her knees while healers attempted to rid her of her magic. These are painful and agonizing memories for Oralia, so when Ren says he wants to be the first to kneel for her willingly, I let out a small scream.
I actually first envisioned Ren, being the God of Death, this terrifying and destructive person, but through Oralia, we get to see how caring and compassionate he is. I love it when a man with a dark and intimidating title turns out to be one of the softer characters. Until anyone threatens Oralia, and that’s when Ren pulls the “touch her and die.” And, the spice was oh, so delicious. Those scenes are exciting, especially when you have a touch-starved FMC and a touch-averse MMC.
Oralia builds a lot of confidence by the end of book one, and I look forward to seeing her take on the threats surrounding her in book two.
June 22, 2025
★★★★¼
อยากอ่านเล่มสอง(เล่มจบ)แล้วค้า cliffhanger มาก😭
ใช้เวลาอ่านนานกว่าที่คิสแหละ ความโรแมนทาซีละมั้ง เวิลบิวดิ้ง เมจิกตู้มต้าม พอไม่ใช่อะไรที่เห็นในโลกปกติมันก้ต้องใช้พลังงานในการจินตนาการมากหน่อย55555 ไม่ชิน แต่เปนปสกการอ่านที่ดีนะ ติดใจอยู่🤓
ว่าด้วยเรื่องของเจ้าหญิงต้องคำสาป(?)ที่ใครมาโดนตัวปุ๊บจะตายสลายเปนเถ้าถ่านปั๊บ คิงผู้เปนพ่อก้เลยให้ชีก้เลยอยู่แบบเหงาๆ ต้องใส่ถุงมือหนังตลอดเวลา ไม่มีใครกอด ลูบหัว จับมือ หรือแตะต้องใดๆ มาตลอด245ปี
จนวันนึงเกิดเรื่องเกิดราว นางเอกต้องพาตัวเองหนีหัวซุกหัวซุนจากวัง ชีได้รับความช่วยเหลือจาก King of the Dead aka พระเอก และไปใช้ชีวิตอยุ่ในอาณาจักรพระเอกตั้งแต่ตอนนั้น โดยที่พระเอกนี่แหละ living thing หนึ่งเดียวที่นางเอกแตะตัวแล้วไม่ตาย🌝
เราว่าพล็อตหลักๆ ไม่ได้ล้ำอะไร แต่รายละเอียดปลีกย่อยมันเก๋นะ รุ้สึกไม่เกร่อ ประมาณ40%แรกของเล่มจะเน้นที่เวิลบิวดิ้ง อาณาจักรของพระเอกและพ่อนางเอก ความหลายสปีชีส์(god / demigod / human / soul) ซี่งก้ไม่ถึงกับเบื่อ อ่านได้เรื่อยๆ เข้าใจไม่ยาก และพอผ่านตรงนี้ไปคือเริ่มวางไม่ลงละ พระเอกนางเอก/เคมีทั้งคู่/side characters/subplots ใดๆ มันเริ่มมาแล้วแบบ เออสนุกอ่า
คสพ.พระนางนี่ว่าสโลวเบินอยู่ มันเริ่มจากการที่นางเอกไม่ไว้ใจพระเอกน่ะ มองเปนศัตรูด้วยซ้ำ ส่วนพระเอกก้มองว่านางเอกวุ่นวาย แรกๆ มีแต่เถียงกัน ผ่านไปซักพักถึงเริ่มคุยแบบปกติได้ มี fored proximity ประปราย ทุกอย่างมันถูกบิ๊วมาช้าๆ นะ แต่รุ้ตัวอีกทีเทนชั่นระเบิดระเบ้อไม่ไหว😩
นางเอกตอนมาอยู่กะพระเอกใหม่ๆ คือดื้อ ปากก้ไม่ดี5555 โบรคเค่นด้วยส่วนนึงแหละจากชีวืตที่แสนหดหู่ตลอด245ปี(เอมพาตี้ๆๆ) แต่เอาจริงไม่ขัดใจเราเท่าไหร่ เพราะพอถึงจุดที่ต้องฟังก้ฟังอยู่ ยิ่งช่วงหลังๆ เห็น development ชัด ท้้ง mental และ physical ถือว่าเราชอบนางนะ เทียบต้นเรื่องกับท้ายเรื่องคือว้าววว มาไกลมากพี่สาว
ส่วนพระเอกนี่นิ่งมาก ไร้อารมณ์มาก (ซึ่งไร้จริง อยุ่กะความตาย ปกครองอาณาจักรที่เต็มไปด้วยวิญญาญมาหลายพันปี มันเฉยชาไปหมด) จนเจอนางเอกที่อยู่ๆ ก้เข้ามาอิทธิพลกะจิตใจ เปนอีกคนที่มี development ชัดเจน ฮีซอฟต์กะนางเอกมากนะ ยิ่งพอรุ้ว่ารักแล้วเนี่ยพี่เอ๊ยยยย ผมจะตายๆๆๆๆๆ
และด้วยความที่ตัวละครแต่ละตัวอายุเปนร้อยเปนพันปีสมกับความเปน god อะนะ ไม่ new adult ไม่ young adult อะไรทั้งนั้น spice level ก้เอาไปที่ 3/5 มันบะลั่กกก
อยากอ่านเล่มสอง(เล่มจบ)แล้วค้า cliffhanger มาก😭
ใช้เวลาอ่านนานกว่าที่คิสแหละ ความโรแมนทาซีละมั้ง เวิลบิวดิ้ง เมจิกตู้มต้าม พอไม่ใช่อะไรที่เห็นในโลกปกติมันก้ต้องใช้พลังงานในการจินตนาการมากหน่อย55555 ไม่ชิน แต่เปนปสกการอ่านที่ดีนะ ติดใจอยู่🤓
ว่าด้วยเรื่องของเจ้าหญิงต้องคำสาป(?)ที่ใครมาโดนตัวปุ๊บจะตายสลายเปนเถ้าถ่านปั๊บ คิงผู้เปนพ่อก้เลยให้ชีก้เลยอยู่แบบเหงาๆ ต้องใส่ถุงมือหนังตลอดเวลา ไม่มีใครกอด ลูบหัว จับมือ หรือแตะต้องใดๆ มาตลอด245ปี
จนวันนึงเกิดเรื่องเกิดราว นางเอกต้องพาตัวเองหนีหัวซุกหัวซุนจากวัง ชีได้รับความช่วยเหลือจาก King of the Dead aka พระเอก และไปใช้ชีวิตอยุ่ในอาณาจักรพระเอกตั้งแต่ตอนนั้น โดยที่พระเอกนี่แหละ living thing หนึ่งเดียวที่นางเอกแตะตัวแล้วไม่ตาย🌝
เราว่าพล็อตหลักๆ ไม่ได้ล้ำอะไร แต่รายละเอียดปลีกย่อยมันเก๋นะ รุ้สึกไม่เกร่อ ประมาณ40%แรกของเล่มจะเน้นที่เวิลบิวดิ้ง อาณาจักรของพระเอกและพ่อนางเอก ความหลายสปีชีส์(god / demigod / human / soul) ซี่งก้ไม่ถึงกับเบื่อ อ่านได้เรื่อยๆ เข้าใจไม่ยาก และพอผ่านตรงนี้ไปคือเริ่มวางไม่ลงละ พระเอกนางเอก/เคมีทั้งคู่/side characters/subplots ใดๆ มันเริ่มมาแล้วแบบ เออสนุกอ่า
คสพ.พระนางนี่ว่าสโลวเบินอยู่ มันเริ่มจากการที่นางเอกไม่ไว้ใจพระเอกน่ะ มองเปนศัตรูด้วยซ้ำ ส่วนพระเอกก้มองว่านางเอกวุ่นวาย แรกๆ มีแต่เถียงกัน ผ่านไปซักพักถึงเริ่มคุยแบบปกติได้ มี fored proximity ประปราย ทุกอย่างมันถูกบิ๊วมาช้าๆ นะ แต่รุ้ตัวอีกทีเทนชั่นระเบิดระเบ้อไม่ไหว😩
นางเอกตอนมาอยู่กะพระเอกใหม่ๆ คือดื้อ ปากก้ไม่ดี5555 โบรคเค่นด้วยส่วนนึงแหละจากชีวืตที่แสนหดหู่ตลอด245ปี(เอมพาตี้ๆๆ) แต่เอาจริงไม่ขัดใจเราเท่าไหร่ เพราะพอถึงจุดที่ต้องฟังก้ฟังอยู่ ยิ่งช่วงหลังๆ เห็น development ชัด ท้้ง mental และ physical ถือว่าเราชอบนางนะ เทียบต้นเรื่องกับท้ายเรื่องคือว้าววว มาไกลมากพี่สาว
ส่วนพระเอกนี่นิ่งมาก ไร้อารมณ์มาก (ซึ่งไร้จริง อยุ่กะความตาย ปกครองอาณาจักรที่เต็มไปด้วยวิญญาญมาหลายพันปี มันเฉยชาไปหมด) จนเจอนางเอกที่อยู่ๆ ก้เข้ามาอิทธิพลกะจิตใจ เปนอีกคนที่มี development ชัดเจน ฮีซอฟต์กะนางเอกมากนะ ยิ่งพอรุ้ว่ารักแล้วเนี่ยพี่เอ๊ยยยย ผมจะตายๆๆๆๆๆ
และด้วยความที่ตัวละครแต่ละตัวอายุเปนร้อยเปนพันปีสมกับความเปน god อะนะ ไม่ new adult ไม่ young adult อะไรทั้งนั้น spice level ก้เอาไปที่ 3/5 มันบะลั่กกก
December 4, 2024
I enjoyed this, maybe because I had a good selection of classical music while reading, it was raining and I had a glass of wine! The atmosphere of the book was very much like One dark window, Hades and Perséfone retellings are always a favourite. The characters could have been better, the pace was slow but I’ll be reading book 2.
March 1, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ this book was the perfect debut novel! THE TENSION— you could cut that shit with a knife. Such an incredible romantasy. I need more Ren and Oralia!! Hades and Persephone retelling with beauty and the beast vibes 🖤 Gillian Eliza West did that and now I need to go read her dramione fanfic! I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds in the next book. April can’t come any sooner!!
October 23, 2024
Thank you to Nerd fam for the earc of this book!
I was not ready to fall in love with a book as much as i did with this one, and a DEBUT? I am obsessed and the characters now live rent free in my head.
This book is perfect for fans of Hades/Persephone retellings with twists, featuring Gods, monsters, romance and magic. The plot and world-building were easy to follow while keeping me wanting to know what came next, the characters were well fleshed out and I began to really love/hate some of them. I really fell in love with Oralia and Renwick and appreciated their character growth throughout.
This is the perfect slow-burn, fantasy romance that I have been looking for and it is perfect for the autumnal season.
Some of my favourite quotes:
"She stared at me, wide-eyed. Her lips parted as if she wanted to speak but could not find the words. And I wanted to crawl into her very skin to destroy us both from the inside out."
"At that, her face broke into a wide, radiant smile. Though I had seen the sun only a few days before, it felt much like when I had witnessed it rise for the first time."
"The power that clung to her soul, that swam through her veins, called out to me. I wanted to swim in it—no, not swim, I wanted to drown in it. To bury myself within her and never come up for air."
"It looks like you are night incarnate, the stars in the sky, the power in my veins. Do you still want me? Do you ache for me the way I ache for you? Has this week been torture for you as it has been for me?"
I could put SO many more quotes that i highlighted but honestly, it is well worth reading them in Ruin! I can't wait for the second book
I was not ready to fall in love with a book as much as i did with this one, and a DEBUT? I am obsessed and the characters now live rent free in my head.
This book is perfect for fans of Hades/Persephone retellings with twists, featuring Gods, monsters, romance and magic. The plot and world-building were easy to follow while keeping me wanting to know what came next, the characters were well fleshed out and I began to really love/hate some of them. I really fell in love with Oralia and Renwick and appreciated their character growth throughout.
This is the perfect slow-burn, fantasy romance that I have been looking for and it is perfect for the autumnal season.
Some of my favourite quotes:
"She stared at me, wide-eyed. Her lips parted as if she wanted to speak but could not find the words. And I wanted to crawl into her very skin to destroy us both from the inside out."
"At that, her face broke into a wide, radiant smile. Though I had seen the sun only a few days before, it felt much like when I had witnessed it rise for the first time."
"The power that clung to her soul, that swam through her veins, called out to me. I wanted to swim in it—no, not swim, I wanted to drown in it. To bury myself within her and never come up for air."
"It looks like you are night incarnate, the stars in the sky, the power in my veins. Do you still want me? Do you ache for me the way I ache for you? Has this week been torture for you as it has been for me?"
I could put SO many more quotes that i highlighted but honestly, it is well worth reading them in Ruin! I can't wait for the second book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 393 reviews