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Shade of Ruin
An unbreakable debt, a hidden bloodline, and a snarling Fae prince. This magical house of cards is built on secrets, and one wrong move will have the world falling apart alongside it.
Maeve Arden didn’t know she was half-Fae until the day she almost killed her cousin. Now, there’s a single convince the last dragon to help.
The only problem? He’s hidden within the capital city of the Fae, a place where humans are food, cruelty is more common than loyalty, and death is always waiting in the shadows.
Her only chance to survive this is by convincing a Fae prince to let her follow him. A handsome and brooding male with more secrets than he has scars who’s only interested in the shadow magic Maeve can wield.
No matter how many smoldering looks and spine-tingling touches they share, the secrets that separate them could be too much.
In a world where love is a weakness and secrets can kill, sometimes it’s not the strongest person that wins. Sometimes it’s the one who’s willing to sacrifice the most.
Shade of Ruin is the first book in a romantasy duet perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Raven Kennedy, Rebecca Yarros, and Penn Cole. It’s a slow-burn romance featuring a morally gray hero, and a smart, strong, and sassy heroine where nothing is what it seems, and everyone has secrets. The duet ends in an HEA, but this book does not.
Maeve Arden didn’t know she was half-Fae until the day she almost killed her cousin. Now, there’s a single convince the last dragon to help.
The only problem? He’s hidden within the capital city of the Fae, a place where humans are food, cruelty is more common than loyalty, and death is always waiting in the shadows.
Her only chance to survive this is by convincing a Fae prince to let her follow him. A handsome and brooding male with more secrets than he has scars who’s only interested in the shadow magic Maeve can wield.
No matter how many smoldering looks and spine-tingling touches they share, the secrets that separate them could be too much.
In a world where love is a weakness and secrets can kill, sometimes it’s not the strongest person that wins. Sometimes it’s the one who’s willing to sacrifice the most.
Shade of Ruin is the first book in a romantasy duet perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Raven Kennedy, Rebecca Yarros, and Penn Cole. It’s a slow-burn romance featuring a morally gray hero, and a smart, strong, and sassy heroine where nothing is what it seems, and everyone has secrets. The duet ends in an HEA, but this book does not.
592 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2024
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2407 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
September 14, 2024
my rating: ★★★★★
aesthetic: 🐺🧚🏽♂️🏹🍂🔥🐉🗡️👑🌫️⛓️💥💍
tropes: one bed, fake fiancée, scarred hero, shadow wielder, hidden bloodline, slow burn, magical debts, stabby heroine
I’m not even sure where to begin. My thoughts are so awe-struck and I’m utterly speechless. ‘Shade of Ruin’ was magical, unique, intense, political AND character driven with touches of romance all wrapped up into a neat package. The plotline was so intriguing, with the different emotions being the basis for all High Fae powers (Earth: peace/anger, Shadows: desire/revulsion) and the effects having either positive or negative characteristics based on which emotion was felt.
The hidden bloodline trope created such thick plot twists throughout the story that I couldn’t predict the ending, I had inklings as to what certain characters identities were but still couldn’t predict anything with accuracy and it made for such a powerful story. The interludes were like a walk through time and space into the past, where a lot of questions were answered and where certain parts in the storyline were missing, those glimpses into the past cleared everything up so perfectly.
The characters were like a breath of fresh air, as well as terrifying, hilarious, and romantic. Lee and Darian were such fun, loving twins, it was hard to not adore them and all their quirks. Cole was like a hot, broody mystery. Although he never lied he was never an open book either, but his loyalty towards the twins goes unmatched. His skepticism towards Maeve never grew tedious, the conversations and tension kept the reader invested, and the slow-burn was SLOW but when the moment came it was most definitely burning 😮💨
I’m now in need of book two asap because that cliff-hanger ending had left me speechless!
Thankyou so much to Evelyn hart for sending me an advanced copy of ‘shade of ruin’ this was an extraordinary debut and I look forward to what the future for these characters hold — releases Sept 18th
aesthetic: 🐺🧚🏽♂️🏹🍂🔥🐉🗡️👑🌫️⛓️💥💍
tropes: one bed, fake fiancée, scarred hero, shadow wielder, hidden bloodline, slow burn, magical debts, stabby heroine
I’m not even sure where to begin. My thoughts are so awe-struck and I’m utterly speechless. ‘Shade of Ruin’ was magical, unique, intense, political AND character driven with touches of romance all wrapped up into a neat package. The plotline was so intriguing, with the different emotions being the basis for all High Fae powers (Earth: peace/anger, Shadows: desire/revulsion) and the effects having either positive or negative characteristics based on which emotion was felt.
The hidden bloodline trope created such thick plot twists throughout the story that I couldn’t predict the ending, I had inklings as to what certain characters identities were but still couldn’t predict anything with accuracy and it made for such a powerful story. The interludes were like a walk through time and space into the past, where a lot of questions were answered and where certain parts in the storyline were missing, those glimpses into the past cleared everything up so perfectly.
The characters were like a breath of fresh air, as well as terrifying, hilarious, and romantic. Lee and Darian were such fun, loving twins, it was hard to not adore them and all their quirks. Cole was like a hot, broody mystery. Although he never lied he was never an open book either, but his loyalty towards the twins goes unmatched. His skepticism towards Maeve never grew tedious, the conversations and tension kept the reader invested, and the slow-burn was SLOW but when the moment came it was most definitely burning 😮💨
I’m now in need of book two asap because that cliff-hanger ending had left me speechless!
Thankyou so much to Evelyn hart for sending me an advanced copy of ‘shade of ruin’ this was an extraordinary debut and I look forward to what the future for these characters hold — releases Sept 18th
September 16, 2024
I read this book as and ARC reading and I’m super grateful for it! It’s definitely one my favorite books from 2024 so far.
I really enjoyed reading this book!! The writing is very smooth and it’s easy to imagine the world and the characters. I find the main female character very endearing and quite funny, I love her! I giggled many times reading it!
I found it was super interesting to see other different types of abilities/powers, other than water, fire, wind, earth, etc. It makes the book so much more fun and the story very captivating.
I’m super happy to got the chance to read it and I will 100% recommend it!
I really enjoyed reading this book!! The writing is very smooth and it’s easy to imagine the world and the characters. I find the main female character very endearing and quite funny, I love her! I giggled many times reading it!
I found it was super interesting to see other different types of abilities/powers, other than water, fire, wind, earth, etc. It makes the book so much more fun and the story very captivating.
I’m super happy to got the chance to read it and I will 100% recommend it!
May 5, 2025
✨ ARC Review ✨
Shade of Ruin is a fantastic read! Hidden bloodline, feisty FMC, morally grey MMC, slow-burn tension, only one bed, magical debts, found family, lots of banter and DRAGONS!! What’s not to love? This is a great read for fans of ACOTAR, Fourth Wing, and the Kindred’s Curse Saga. I cannot wait to get my hands on the paperback!
Shade of Ruin is a fantastic read! Hidden bloodline, feisty FMC, morally grey MMC, slow-burn tension, only one bed, magical debts, found family, lots of banter and DRAGONS!! What’s not to love? This is a great read for fans of ACOTAR, Fourth Wing, and the Kindred’s Curse Saga. I cannot wait to get my hands on the paperback!
March 7, 2025
Terrible, honestly I dnf at 10%. Her inner monologue was the absolute worst. No emotional intelligence whatsoever. There was no depht to her and the writing is very repetitive and choppy. The plot was intriguing, but the writing style was just not it for me.
February 11, 2025
DNF 50% the writing was too choppy
June 2, 2025
Okay so I loved this so much more than I thought I would! Let me tell you though, idk why when I read the blurb I was like “oh they are meeting at a ball” like I just got those vibes and that’s not it just a heads up.
Anywaaayyyyyssss I loved the main female character like she eats! At first I was like ehhh but then about halfway through she says something and I was like “oh I’m obsessed with her” so like biiigggg fan of her! I enjoyed the MMC in this too he was like a good time!
Oh also everyone says like “omg plot twist I didn’t see!” And the way I didn’t feel that way but it could be because I was vigilant because of seeing people say that. But speaking on that, one of the reveals like doesn’t make sense to me at all whatsoever like I wasn’t shocked by it but it also doesn’t add up. Like the math ain’t mathing, but I can for sure look past that tbh.
I am worried about picking the second one up though since I saw some goodreads reviews and got scared but hey maybe I’ll push through the scared!
4/5⭐️
Anywaaayyyyyssss I loved the main female character like she eats! At first I was like ehhh but then about halfway through she says something and I was like “oh I’m obsessed with her” so like biiigggg fan of her! I enjoyed the MMC in this too he was like a good time!
Oh also everyone says like “omg plot twist I didn’t see!” And the way I didn’t feel that way but it could be because I was vigilant because of seeing people say that. But speaking on that, one of the reveals like doesn’t make sense to me at all whatsoever like I wasn’t shocked by it but it also doesn’t add up. Like the math ain’t mathing, but I can for sure look past that tbh.
I am worried about picking the second one up though since I saw some goodreads reviews and got scared but hey maybe I’ll push through the scared!
4/5⭐️
January 3, 2025
This is the first book i have read by this author. What a great read, I can't wait for book 2!!
September 24, 2024
Meet Maeve Arden - who unexpectedly finds out she is half-fae after she almost unalives her cousin. The cure? Travel to Draenyth where humans and half-fae are food & slaves.
Meet Cole Cyrus - a handsome snarling Fae prince who finds interest in Maeve's magic. He agrees to accompany her to Draenyth and along the way it becomes clear that he has more secrets than scars.
Maeve finds it challenging to adapt as she finds that love is weakness, emotions should be leashed, secrets are power, and not everything is what it seems.
Join Maeve on her journey of romance, courage, and trust as Hart uses just the right amount of magical world building, 54 banter, and tension to give you the reading experience of a lifetime.
RUN, don't walk.
I was entranced from start to finish and LOVED the balance
between world and character building.
The banter and tension had me giggling and so invested in the relationships and wondering what would happen next.
Thank you, Evelyn Hart, you single handedly got me out of my reading slump!
I need the next book NOW!
Meet Cole Cyrus - a handsome snarling Fae prince who finds interest in Maeve's magic. He agrees to accompany her to Draenyth and along the way it becomes clear that he has more secrets than scars.
Maeve finds it challenging to adapt as she finds that love is weakness, emotions should be leashed, secrets are power, and not everything is what it seems.
Join Maeve on her journey of romance, courage, and trust as Hart uses just the right amount of magical world building, 54 banter, and tension to give you the reading experience of a lifetime.
RUN, don't walk.
I was entranced from start to finish and LOVED the balance
between world and character building.
The banter and tension had me giggling and so invested in the relationships and wondering what would happen next.
Thank you, Evelyn Hart, you single handedly got me out of my reading slump!
I need the next book NOW!
November 21, 2024
im so sad i didn't love this
don't get me wrong, it wasn't terrible, but I was expecting this to be 6 stars, idk why
there was so much potential, and the characters/pot was really good, but the writing was so choppy and kinda bad, that it made reading it not as enjoyable. sometimes experience overtakes writing for me, but in this book all I could focus on was awkward writing and things I would change, that yeah, this is like 3 stars
don't get me wrong, it wasn't terrible, but I was expecting this to be 6 stars, idk why
there was so much potential, and the characters/pot was really good, but the writing was so choppy and kinda bad, that it made reading it not as enjoyable. sometimes experience overtakes writing for me, but in this book all I could focus on was awkward writing and things I would change, that yeah, this is like 3 stars
May 26, 2025
I’m honestly a little speechless, because not going to lie … I was almost lost to the Nothing there for a minute (IYKYK). However, I have made it through the veil & I have come back to say … WHAT in the HECK were those last few chapters!? I am simply in awe. Evelyn Hart in ‘Shade of Ruin’ charmed me with all the magical elements & political plays, that I became so engrossed within the story to not question any of the motifs or loose threads.
I demolished this world in an effort to discover the truths & connection to the hidden bloodline, this trope was truly one you could not identify until the very end. This story is a true slow burn, and it is filled with adventure, strength, truth & deceit. It was an honest wonder how Maeve makes it through this path paved for her, which just makes me so excited to see the journey for our FMC in the next book.
I truly loved the symbolism within the Fae Elements. I feel as though they were created by Evelyn to highlight the delicate balance between emotions & beliefs. It felt metaphoric, as Shadows, our Shade Is either where we can feel turmoil or comfort in the depths of ourselves. Our Light can be our fierce guide, a fire that burns within us through joy & passion. Although, if burnt too quickly, it can turn into those emotions of resentment or anger. Hurt. Maeve & Cole are very complex characters, he will do anything to protect her, her his light, him her shadow.
In a world where love is a weakness and secrets can kill, sometimes it’s not the strongest person that wins. Sometimes it’s the one who’s willing to sacrifice the most.
My only criticism is the character descriptions. I found it difficult to connect to Maeve in the beginning because we didn’t really get characteristics like eye colour, facial shape, hair, etc. Other then that, I have no critique! Shade of Ruin will make you believe one thing, to only be completely another! I am so excited I don't need to wait for Crown of Wrath , BRB!
I recommend this to your TBR if you enjoy -
~ Alliance betrothal
~ One bed
~ FMC Shadow wielder
~ Hidden Bloodline
~ Dragons
~ Fae
~ Fates
~ Forbidden YEARNING
~ Elemental Magic
~ SPOILER (not so spoiler), but for anyone thinking it’s MFM … just remind yourself Evelyn doesn’t disclose this, so … keep reading.
~ SLOW burn
~ Fae Royalty
~ Magical debts
~ MINE
I demolished this world in an effort to discover the truths & connection to the hidden bloodline, this trope was truly one you could not identify until the very end. This story is a true slow burn, and it is filled with adventure, strength, truth & deceit. It was an honest wonder how Maeve makes it through this path paved for her, which just makes me so excited to see the journey for our FMC in the next book.
I truly loved the symbolism within the Fae Elements. I feel as though they were created by Evelyn to highlight the delicate balance between emotions & beliefs. It felt metaphoric, as Shadows, our Shade Is either where we can feel turmoil or comfort in the depths of ourselves. Our Light can be our fierce guide, a fire that burns within us through joy & passion. Although, if burnt too quickly, it can turn into those emotions of resentment or anger. Hurt. Maeve & Cole are very complex characters, he will do anything to protect her, her his light, him her shadow.
In a world where love is a weakness and secrets can kill, sometimes it’s not the strongest person that wins. Sometimes it’s the one who’s willing to sacrifice the most.
My only criticism is the character descriptions. I found it difficult to connect to Maeve in the beginning because we didn’t really get characteristics like eye colour, facial shape, hair, etc. Other then that, I have no critique! Shade of Ruin will make you believe one thing, to only be completely another! I am so excited I don't need to wait for Crown of Wrath , BRB!
I recommend this to your TBR if you enjoy -
~ Alliance betrothal
~ One bed
~ FMC Shadow wielder
~ Hidden Bloodline
~ Dragons
~ Fae
~ Fates
~ Forbidden YEARNING
~ Elemental Magic
~ SPOILER (not so spoiler), but for anyone thinking it’s MFM … just remind yourself Evelyn doesn’t disclose this, so … keep reading.
~ SLOW burn
~ Fae Royalty
~ Magical debts
~ MINE
September 20, 2024
Shade of Ruin was a very fun, refreshing and unputdownable read for me. The story starts off very strong, the world building is great, not too detailed as to overload you with information right away, but enough so that you understand the world and what is going on.
I really enjoyed Evelyn’s writing style, the pacing was perfect in my opinion (you don’t want a book that rushes ahead!) and the relationship between Maeve and Cole progresses from begrudging acquaintances to having the most insane chemistry between them.
Cole will forever be one of my favourite MMCs, a broody, grumpy fae prince who would do anything for Maeve? Sold.
It took me the better part of three days to read this because I was dragging it out so that it wouldn’t have to end. I loved the feuds, banter, Maeve’s dedication to her family and the overall feeling of this book. The little twists throughout were super exciting and I can honestly say I can’t wait to read more from Evelyn — very excited for the second half of this duet that’s for sure!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed Evelyn’s writing style, the pacing was perfect in my opinion (you don’t want a book that rushes ahead!) and the relationship between Maeve and Cole progresses from begrudging acquaintances to having the most insane chemistry between them.
Cole will forever be one of my favourite MMCs, a broody, grumpy fae prince who would do anything for Maeve? Sold.
It took me the better part of three days to read this because I was dragging it out so that it wouldn’t have to end. I loved the feuds, banter, Maeve’s dedication to her family and the overall feeling of this book. The little twists throughout were super exciting and I can honestly say I can’t wait to read more from Evelyn — very excited for the second half of this duet that’s for sure!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2024
Finally, we have an FMC who wields shadows!!! *Insert squeal of excitement here* I made myself draw this read out for a few days because I was enjoying it so much! I didn’t want it to end. This is a slow, SLOW burn and has amazing tension that sizzles from the get go. Who wouldn’t want to get to know a secretive, gorgeous fae prince? Maeve has been raised to distrust the Immortals, but when she finds out she is one things take a drastic turn and her whole life is flipped upside down. Both Maeve and Cole have difficult pasts, watching them coax each other’s souls out of the darkness had me crying. I love the secrets and while I did see some of the plot twists coming, there were a few that surprised me! If you like fantasy, banter, found family, political intrigue, lots of magic, dragons (because duh who wouldn’t want that), and a VERY broody MMC, Shade of Ruin is for you! The ending had my eyes bugging out of my head. I can’t wait for the next book!
Thank you to Evelyn Hart and Story Origin for the advanced copy in return for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
Thank you to Evelyn Hart and Story Origin for the advanced copy in return for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
May 4, 2025
It took me a long time to finish this book because I just couldn’t get into it. I don’t think I really bought into the storyline until about 3/4 of the way through. I liked Maeve as a character, but the relationship between her and Cole wasn’t well developed. The slow burn was there, but the Shade always got in the way. I appreciated the way the Shade was finally explained and I had begun to suspect who the Shade was towards the end of the book, but I still felt that the character interfered with Maeve and Cole’s story in a negative way. I hate that everyone had to lie to Maeve in order for the ending to work, and that she becomes such a cold unfeeling character at the end. I was also extremely disappointed that her interaction with Calyr, the dragon, was so brief and never really worked out. I just expected more and was left disappointed. I will read the second book and hope that the story gets better, but in terms of this book, I don’t think it lived up to its reviews.
September 12, 2025
Criminally underrated.
If you like Sarah J Maas or Romantasy in generally this is for you.
Got me out of a big reading slump!
There is a lot of inner monologue which I personally like. The story itself tho is moving forward quickly, despite the lenght of the book - the lack of long fill-in-chapters is also something I appreciate.
The book entails lots of tropes that are currently trending (one bed, forced proximity, fake fiance), in my opinion it‘s not overused and done in a more subtle way (unlike lots of other books trending rn).
Most of all: the story (and the way it’s told) makes sense (which is sadly an absolute rarity in today‘s publishing jungle.
What I absolute love are the bits of information before every new chapter. The author puts a little excerpt of the main player‘s letters or dairy entries which gives context without being too much. I wish more authors would do that.
If you like Sarah J Maas or Romantasy in generally this is for you.
Got me out of a big reading slump!
There is a lot of inner monologue which I personally like. The story itself tho is moving forward quickly, despite the lenght of the book - the lack of long fill-in-chapters is also something I appreciate.
The book entails lots of tropes that are currently trending (one bed, forced proximity, fake fiance), in my opinion it‘s not overused and done in a more subtle way (unlike lots of other books trending rn).
Most of all: the story (and the way it’s told) makes sense (which is sadly an absolute rarity in today‘s publishing jungle.
What I absolute love are the bits of information before every new chapter. The author puts a little excerpt of the main player‘s letters or dairy entries which gives context without being too much. I wish more authors would do that.
November 19, 2025
4-4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this, though I wasn't sure I would. I worried it was going to be a love triangle or why-choose situation, but it worked out. There were a few situations where the characters' reaction to things was strange to me (coldness for no reason, for example) and those instances drew me out of the story briefly while I tried to figure out if I missed something. Those were really the only reason this didn't get a full 5 stars.
I really enjoyed this, though I wasn't sure I would. I worried it was going to be a love triangle or why-choose situation, but it worked out. There were a few situations where the characters' reaction to things was strange to me (coldness for no reason, for example) and those instances drew me out of the story briefly while I tried to figure out if I missed something. Those were really the only reason this didn't get a full 5 stars.
December 11, 2024
good read
I really enjoyed this book. The found family, a really strong FMC, a handsome mmc who challenges her. It’s a slow burn and then one steamy scene. Theres mystery, betrayal, and love. I felt like some of the FMC internal dialogue was a little redundant and repetitive at times where it went on for pages pretty much saying the same thing. But this aside it was a good read.
I really enjoyed this book. The found family, a really strong FMC, a handsome mmc who challenges her. It’s a slow burn and then one steamy scene. Theres mystery, betrayal, and love. I felt like some of the FMC internal dialogue was a little redundant and repetitive at times where it went on for pages pretty much saying the same thing. But this aside it was a good read.
November 12, 2024
LOVE
Loved every moment of this book! I just couldn't put this down! A FMC that welds shadows 🫠 yes please. VERY slow burn but so fingerlicking good! 😏 highly recommended! It's has romance, action, sassy bantering, PLOT TWISTS and so many other wonderful things
Loved every moment of this book! I just couldn't put this down! A FMC that welds shadows 🫠 yes please. VERY slow burn but so fingerlicking good! 😏 highly recommended! It's has romance, action, sassy bantering, PLOT TWISTS and so many other wonderful things
January 11, 2025
I refuse to dnf this early in the year
Want to read
March 28, 2025Fuck yes I need some Kindle time to read this in the holidays!
September 16, 2024
I received the eARC of this book for an honest review ✨️
I will admit, during the first half of this book I thought I knew what was going to happen. I'm usually pretty accurate with predicting how a book will go. I was so so wrong 😅
The ending. That twist. I am still reeling. To be perfectly honest I was looking at a 3.5-4 star rating but the last 60 pages or so just shot it straight into 5.
This book had great worldbuilding, and those who know me know I need that. It was refreshing having a fmc that wasn't assassin-level skilled and had to learn along the way, while having strengths in other areas. Maeve was a great POV to experience.
I loved the different lesser fae, the complexities of the world and political system, the snippets of history at each chapter beginning, and, of course, a certain shadowy someone.
All in all a great read 💗
I will admit, during the first half of this book I thought I knew what was going to happen. I'm usually pretty accurate with predicting how a book will go. I was so so wrong 😅
The ending. That twist. I am still reeling. To be perfectly honest I was looking at a 3.5-4 star rating but the last 60 pages or so just shot it straight into 5.
This book had great worldbuilding, and those who know me know I need that. It was refreshing having a fmc that wasn't assassin-level skilled and had to learn along the way, while having strengths in other areas. Maeve was a great POV to experience.
I loved the different lesser fae, the complexities of the world and political system, the snippets of history at each chapter beginning, and, of course, a certain shadowy someone.
All in all a great read 💗
May 1, 2025
DNF @ 65%
September 4, 2025
I don't understand why this book is so well reviewed. I kept going out of interest of the concept, but even that was annoying by the end. So much of this was rushed, and I didn't believe a single character. We jump from one plot point to the next, never letting anything land or develop fully, before it's been forgotten and we're onto the next thing. I guessed pretty early on who The Shade was, but even reading it and expecting it to be who it was, it just didn't make sense, it was just a square peg being shoved into a round hole. And that's this entire book. Throwaway things are said that have little bearing on the rest of the story. Meanwhile, things that are important don't get developed properly. I think this book needed a few more rounds of rewrites to tighten it up. I'm not going to bother with the second book
June 28, 2025
I started the book really enjoying it! The writing was engaging, I connected easily with the FMC and was excited to see where her journey led her. Then I ended up stopping around 30%. The MMC and FMC dynamic felt very rushed... It kinda felt like the MMC was trying to be a Rhysand kind of character in that he is misunderstood, or he does things/makes crazy decisions, but in the end it was super necessary for the situation and you just have to trust him, BUT there's so little development of that kind of trust... Side characters just show up and are like "He always does whats best, you have to trust him!" Anyway... Just felt very rushed/pushed and not natural and the story and character development started just becoming too tropey and annoying
February 6, 2025
IM OBSESSED WITH THIS BOOK NOW…okay, i started this book BLIND because i was feeling in a slump and it was first on the page of “discover your next read” on my kindle.
i’m still emotionally recovering from the ending. i’m…i can’t wait until the next book is out. i’m reeling. the world building is beautiful, the characters have growth, and the plot is lovely. the progression of the plot line is smooth. this book does not have the recognition it deserves.
i’m still emotionally recovering from the ending. i’m…i can’t wait until the next book is out. i’m reeling. the world building is beautiful, the characters have growth, and the plot is lovely. the progression of the plot line is smooth. this book does not have the recognition it deserves.
January 27, 2025
Wow! This book had me hooked almost instantly!! Maeve is such a badass FMC. Cole is a dark, brooding, morally grey MMC who just had me pining for him from the beginning. Then you throw in the ever mysterious character of the Shade. What a ride! Not to mention the ACOTAR vibes 😍😱🤩 If you love morally grey MMCs, hidden bloodlines, forced proximity, fake engagement/betrothal, and a little bit of 🌶️ then this book is for you!! Can’t wait for book 2!
December 14, 2024
Oh My God. What a story!
First of all, I would like to say, I am amazed at how well written and thought out this book is. The characters: captivating. The plot: ingenious. The twists: absolutely mind blowing!!
I loved reading Maeve’s story, the revelations kept me interested until the very last page and I already want to start book two (any ideas when that’ll be ready?).
First of all, I would like to say, I am amazed at how well written and thought out this book is. The characters: captivating. The plot: ingenious. The twists: absolutely mind blowing!!
I loved reading Maeve’s story, the revelations kept me interested until the very last page and I already want to start book two (any ideas when that’ll be ready?).
September 16, 2024
-Spoilers in Review-
"But when I look into those shadows, I feel like I can trust him completely..."
Follow the story of Maeve Arden, a young woman from Blackgrove who only wants a simple life, hunting in the forest surrounding her town. Being the fastest most efficient hunter in the town has its perks. And Maeve excels at that thanks to her personal trainer Vesta. But she isn't quite like everyone else in this town. People keep their distance from her, and the only ones who let her close do so out of monetary obligation minus her sweet gentle cousin.
All that changes on one fated day where Maeve loses control over her emotions and starts her path through her own trials and tribulations. She calls upon a dark male of shadows called the Shade and opens her path to his Shadow Debts all to save the one person she loves. She is given an impossible task, make it to the Fae city of Draenyth and speak to the last known Dragon to cure her cousin. But how? A young woman who has never left the town she grew up in needs to make it all the way to the Fae city on her own? Enter in handsome Fae male Cole Cyrus, a brooding male making his way through Blackgrove who saves Maeve from an attack. A man of many many secrets.
Here Maeve begins her journey to Draenyth accompanied during the day by Cole and at night the Shade. Throughout this journey she learns she is not quite what she believed herself to be, and due to her family lineage, she seems to hold a certain type of dark magic, a flow of shadows that come from her body, a darkness that seems to be held back by a simple ring gifted from her mother. Needing to learn to protect herself to complete her task and save her cousin she gathers more debts to the Shade to learn how to control this special magic.
How does one control the shadows? By Desire and Repulsion. She learns these at the "shadowy" hands of the Shade. Follow Maeve, Cole and the Shade on their journey to Draenyth where Maeve learns she isn't only saving her cousin but also the world.
There is tension from the start with a burn all the way to the last pages. Twists and turns that are both expected and unexpected. Make sure to read the excerpts at the beginning of each chapter for some interesting foreshadowing. Filled with fiery passion and shadows of desire and world building that brings the towns and city to life and helps you fall just a little more in love with the world Evelyn Hart has created. I am shocked that this is her debut novel! I highly suggest picking this up for fans of Jennifer Armentrout and Sarah J Maas. You will not be disappointed.
Can't wait to read book 2!
-ARC Reader Review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2025
4+1 star for that ending. I'm the kind of reader that doesn't mind reading the same formula over and over again if it's done well.
Tropes:
-shadow mommy
-tortured hero
-hidden royalty
-training
-fake dating
-one bed
-triangle? sort of(with the most satisfying resolution possible)
-virgin fmc (but only 0.001% attention is drawn to that. Basically one sentence when it matters).
This book requires a headstart & your trust.
The first chapter is a total miss - it's a prologue that's completely skippable. The intent was to set up tension but it fails. The beginning is altogether uninspiring. It reminded me of other books: acotar(the hunting), one dark window(the mist and adopted family setting), and some other I don't remember the title of(with a secondary hero named Ty and dragon shifters). Basically, it sets your expectations to zero unintentionally.
It's not fresh or something you haven't read before but it's done right with the minimal amount of red flags possible. This book is like coming home to your comfort tv show which you don't mind rewatching a dozen times.
The only thing I really wish it included was a more detailed recollection of events from the MMC's side cuz I still have some questions. Maybe book 2 delivers? Also thank you, author, for not stretching the story into an obligatory trilogy and keeping it a duet. Can't wait for the next one!
I added a star for that ending. It's done perfectly. Again, nothing I haven't read before, but it's done just the way I like.
Tropes:
-shadow mommy
-tortured hero
-hidden royalty
-training
-fake dating
-one bed
-triangle? sort of(with the most satisfying resolution possible)
-virgin fmc (but only 0.001% attention is drawn to that. Basically one sentence when it matters).
This book requires a headstart & your trust.
The first chapter is a total miss - it's a prologue that's completely skippable. The intent was to set up tension but it fails. The beginning is altogether uninspiring. It reminded me of other books: acotar(the hunting), one dark window(the mist and adopted family setting), and some other I don't remember the title of(with a secondary hero named Ty and dragon shifters). Basically, it sets your expectations to zero unintentionally.
It's not fresh or something you haven't read before but it's done right with the minimal amount of red flags possible. This book is like coming home to your comfort tv show which you don't mind rewatching a dozen times.
The only thing I really wish it included was a more detailed recollection of events from the MMC's side cuz I still have some questions. Maybe book 2 delivers? Also thank you, author, for not stretching the story into an obligatory trilogy and keeping it a duet. Can't wait for the next one!
I added a star for that ending. It's done perfectly. Again, nothing I haven't read before, but it's done just the way I like.
August 28, 2025
Looking for Your Next Fantasy Obsession? Start Here NOW!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5/5 (Would give more if I could!) Spice level: 🌶️🌶️.5
Why is Shade of Ruin by Evelyn Hart not blowing up right now?? This book is criminally underrated. From the very first page, I was hooked — and it never let me go.
Imagine a world crumbling under the weight of a dying magical land, layered with hidden identities, dangerous secrets, twisted loyalties, and a creeping, terrifying force devouring everything in its path. Now throw in fae, halflings, humans, political tension, slow burn romance and emotional stakes that had me wide-eyed at 2 a.m. That’s Shade of Ruin.
The characters are complex and compelling, and the story moves fast — the pacing was absolutely spot-on. Not a single dull moment. Every chapter seemed to peel back another layer of mystery, and just when I thought I had something figured out — BAM — another twist. Evelyn Hart knows exactly how to keep readers guessing (and gasping).
Also, can we talk about the worldbuilding? It's immersive without ever feeling info-dumpy. Dark, rich, and full of atmosphere — I could feel the desperation and decay of the world, and it made everything feel that much more urgent and real.
Spice level sits around a 2.5 🌶️, enough to raise the heat without overshadowing the plot.
I’m jumping straight into book 2 — I need answers, and I’m not emotionally prepared for what’s next (but I’m doing it anyway).
If you're into fantasy with sharp edges, emotional depth, and unrelenting momentum — do not sleep on this series.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5/5 (Would give more if I could!) Spice level: 🌶️🌶️.5
Why is Shade of Ruin by Evelyn Hart not blowing up right now?? This book is criminally underrated. From the very first page, I was hooked — and it never let me go.
Imagine a world crumbling under the weight of a dying magical land, layered with hidden identities, dangerous secrets, twisted loyalties, and a creeping, terrifying force devouring everything in its path. Now throw in fae, halflings, humans, political tension, slow burn romance and emotional stakes that had me wide-eyed at 2 a.m. That’s Shade of Ruin.
The characters are complex and compelling, and the story moves fast — the pacing was absolutely spot-on. Not a single dull moment. Every chapter seemed to peel back another layer of mystery, and just when I thought I had something figured out — BAM — another twist. Evelyn Hart knows exactly how to keep readers guessing (and gasping).
Also, can we talk about the worldbuilding? It's immersive without ever feeling info-dumpy. Dark, rich, and full of atmosphere — I could feel the desperation and decay of the world, and it made everything feel that much more urgent and real.
Spice level sits around a 2.5 🌶️, enough to raise the heat without overshadowing the plot.
I’m jumping straight into book 2 — I need answers, and I’m not emotionally prepared for what’s next (but I’m doing it anyway).
If you're into fantasy with sharp edges, emotional depth, and unrelenting momentum — do not sleep on this series.
September 8, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book!
I think the story is well thought out and the author's writing is really well done. I struggled at times with the pacing. There were parts in the middle that seemed to go off of the main story line and it took away from the overall story. These parts felt slower and less important to the rest of the book. (This can be a personal preference and in no way takes away from my enjoyment of the overall book). When the book got back on the main story line, it flourished!
The world building happens throughout the book and not all at once, which I love. And the magic system and how it operates is nicely done and interesting.
The characters are interesting and go through journeys. I especially liked the FMC, Maeve, as she is a spit fire and full of confidence, even though she is still learning and figuring things out. She has so much to face and I am so glad her character doesn't waver. She is so strong. Cole, is seemingly an enigma with a tough exterior, but with reason. I will say I predicted his outcome, but I am happy that it turned out that way. I also think this book has many strong secondary characters and I am so appreciative of the thought behind the characters, their motivations, and their importance in the story. It all comes together which makes a great ending.
I'm definitely excited for book 2 and can't wait to see what happens to Maeve and Cole!
I think the story is well thought out and the author's writing is really well done. I struggled at times with the pacing. There were parts in the middle that seemed to go off of the main story line and it took away from the overall story. These parts felt slower and less important to the rest of the book. (This can be a personal preference and in no way takes away from my enjoyment of the overall book). When the book got back on the main story line, it flourished!
The world building happens throughout the book and not all at once, which I love. And the magic system and how it operates is nicely done and interesting.
The characters are interesting and go through journeys. I especially liked the FMC, Maeve, as she is a spit fire and full of confidence, even though she is still learning and figuring things out. She has so much to face and I am so glad her character doesn't waver. She is so strong. Cole, is seemingly an enigma with a tough exterior, but with reason. I will say I predicted his outcome, but I am happy that it turned out that way. I also think this book has many strong secondary characters and I am so appreciative of the thought behind the characters, their motivations, and their importance in the story. It all comes together which makes a great ending.
I'm definitely excited for book 2 and can't wait to see what happens to Maeve and Cole!
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