What do you think?
Rate this book
The Ruined King
The Veil is spreading, and with it, corruption deepens. Now, harboring the resurfaced memories of his forgotten past, Seren realizes the role he must play as the fate of the realm hangs in the balance. With the soul of a reincarnated goddess inside him, Seren must return home and accept his destiny-the one to perform the Cleansing.
Upon his long-awaited return to his homeland, Seren is immediately thrust into his role by Aiden, with no time to process the years that have kept them apart.
Alongside his allies, Seren sets out to fulfill the prophecies by gathering the trinity of holy items-the harp, the sword, and the crown.
The whereabouts of only the harp are known, hidden deep within the fallen kingdom of Andanova. Seren embarks on this perilous quest with his companions, including Jude, whose past is intricately tied to Andanova's dark history. As new and unexpected truths begin to emerge, Seren is faced with more secrets and lies than he ever anticipated.
How many more revelations will Seren uncover before the full truth is revealed? And what if some truths are better left buried in the dark?
Upon his long-awaited return to his homeland, Seren is immediately thrust into his role by Aiden, with no time to process the years that have kept them apart.
Alongside his allies, Seren sets out to fulfill the prophecies by gathering the trinity of holy items-the harp, the sword, and the crown.
The whereabouts of only the harp are known, hidden deep within the fallen kingdom of Andanova. Seren embarks on this perilous quest with his companions, including Jude, whose past is intricately tied to Andanova's dark history. As new and unexpected truths begin to emerge, Seren is faced with more secrets and lies than he ever anticipated.
How many more revelations will Seren uncover before the full truth is revealed? And what if some truths are better left buried in the dark?
595 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 3, 2025
2 people are currently reading
201 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 15, 2025
I'm so excited for this book’s release! I feel like I’ve grown a lot as a writer since The Wingless King, and I’m incredibly grateful for all my readers. I hope you enjoy it! 💖
April 16, 2025
A big thank you to Kallie for this ARC!
4.5/5
What a great follow up to The Wingless King! The story picks up where we left off, and while I have terrible memory and was a bit lost at first, it all quickly came back to me and fell into place. The world-building was stronger in this book, with more explanation about the political organisation and religious system, which draws mainly on biblical stories but also a little on other mythologies. We further explore who's really a villain and who genuinely thought they were making good decisions, and I absolutely love when nothing is black and white.
We learn more about Seren's past here, and it was great to piece it all together alongside him. But in a way, he wasn't as central anymore, and it gave the rest of the cast more opportunity for character development. There was a severe lack of Jude in the beginning (for my taste at least, I need my Jude fix regularly), but it was made up by him getting a lot more attention in the second half. For a moment, it almost felt like he was the main character, and I was so here for it. We discover his backstory and as painful as it was, I absolutely loved it. Stop hurting him though Kallie I am begging. He's seen enough ok, give my sunshine baby some peace. Needless to say, after reading this second installment, he is even more cemented as my favourite character. Side note, I'd totally read a spin-off about his family. And Caius. Is it wrong to be in love with Caius from a couple flashbacks? Anyways. Mila also gets a chance to shine and has several POV chapters which I really enjoyed. There seem to be exciting possibilities for her storyline to evolve so I can't wait to see where that leads. Would I also read a spin-off about the Sanguine Sisters? Hell yes. And then we saw more of Emeryn and I'm kinda obsessed with Emeryn. Several new characters are introduced too and work really well within the story, giving a new dynamic to the main group. I hope to see more of young Felix in the next book and I'm also very intrigued by Cin.
So what's the missing half star? Honestly, I'm ready for the love triangle to be over. I thought we had a resolution for a while but then by the end I wasn't so sure. I don't actually mind love triangles and I love all three characters; the main reason is that now I kinda ship one of them with a new person. I won't say more than that to avoid spoilers, but I hope that's the direction it will take. They would be a really badass couple, I'm just saying.
4.5/5
What a great follow up to The Wingless King! The story picks up where we left off, and while I have terrible memory and was a bit lost at first, it all quickly came back to me and fell into place. The world-building was stronger in this book, with more explanation about the political organisation and religious system, which draws mainly on biblical stories but also a little on other mythologies. We further explore who's really a villain and who genuinely thought they were making good decisions, and I absolutely love when nothing is black and white.
We learn more about Seren's past here, and it was great to piece it all together alongside him. But in a way, he wasn't as central anymore, and it gave the rest of the cast more opportunity for character development. There was a severe lack of Jude in the beginning (for my taste at least, I need my Jude fix regularly), but it was made up by him getting a lot more attention in the second half. For a moment, it almost felt like he was the main character, and I was so here for it. We discover his backstory and as painful as it was, I absolutely loved it. Stop hurting him though Kallie I am begging. He's seen enough ok, give my sunshine baby some peace. Needless to say, after reading this second installment, he is even more cemented as my favourite character. Side note, I'd totally read a spin-off about his family. And Caius. Is it wrong to be in love with Caius from a couple flashbacks? Anyways. Mila also gets a chance to shine and has several POV chapters which I really enjoyed. There seem to be exciting possibilities for her storyline to evolve so I can't wait to see where that leads. Would I also read a spin-off about the Sanguine Sisters? Hell yes. And then we saw more of Emeryn and I'm kinda obsessed with Emeryn. Several new characters are introduced too and work really well within the story, giving a new dynamic to the main group. I hope to see more of young Felix in the next book and I'm also very intrigued by Cin.
So what's the missing half star? Honestly, I'm ready for the love triangle to be over. I thought we had a resolution for a while but then by the end I wasn't so sure. I don't actually mind love triangles and I love all three characters; the main reason is that now I kinda ship one of them with a new person. I won't say more than that to avoid spoilers, but I hope that's the direction it will take. They would be a really badass couple, I'm just saying.
May 19, 2025
actual rtc, but MAN, this was great.
also thank you so much to the author for sending me an arc
also thank you so much to the author for sending me an arc
May 3, 2025
The Ruined King is book two in The Wingless King series- a dark young adult fantasy series. Im so grateful to have the opportunity to ARC read both one and two. I loved this book even more than book one and the stakes were much higher this time. This series has such a great friend group which really shines for me. I love the strengths and flaws of all the characters and the secrets you find out along the way. The world building is lush, bright, unique and simultaneously dark. I also love the influence of theology and religion on the plot mixed with dark fantasy themes. I highly recommend checking out this series!!
May 6, 2025
“If you asked me to stay, I’d ask you for how long. If you asked me to stay until morning, then I would leave when the sun rose. If you said until you grew tired of me, then I’d leave quietly in the night as you slept. But if you asked me to stay until the end… Well, then, I would never leave your side.”
I’d first like to thank the author because I had the opportunity to be part of the ARC team for this book!
Oh my god I don’t know how to put my feelings into words. I feel SO much and I need the third book RIGHT NOW!!
The worldbuilding becomes deeper and richer with The Ruined King. Each kingdom’s culture, from their clothes to their food, was covered in incredible detail. My admiration increased with each chapter.
The stories of Gods and Fallen Angels took my breath away every time! Their parallels with reality and the careful examination of what really happened have made The Wingless King and The Ruined King perhaps the best fantasy book series of recent times!!
I must add that I am NOT a big fan of love trilogies 😔 BUT I am definitely on team Jude/Seren 🙂↕️🤭🫡 But K. C. Wassem has written both couples with great care. The weakness and desperation between Seren and Mila. The childhood friendship between Seren and Jude, to forgotten strangers and from there to pure love... Absolutely perfect!!
April 20, 2025
This book really hit the mark for me personally. Everything I was hoping for in book one (more lore, more world structure, more time to understand the characters’ ambitions) has absolutely been delivered here. As always, the prose is excellent and the words are delicious. I have about twelve thousand theories for book three!
It’s amazing to see the author ‘leveling up’ and dipping deeper into this fascinating world that she’s created. The stakes are higher. Seren’s story becomes even more intriguing. He is gaining more responsibility for his fate, and yet more helplessness to it as well. I don’t know about all of you, but I love stories where there is no clear answer, where the characters have to expand, to learn, to change. Seren has more challenges this book, and it is fantastic seeing how he conquers them, whether solo or with his trusted people. This isn’t one of those stories where you can guess exactly what will happen, and I love it!
Overall, this was a pleasure to read, and I can’t wait to continue Seren’s story in the next book.
#JusticeforJude
It’s amazing to see the author ‘leveling up’ and dipping deeper into this fascinating world that she’s created. The stakes are higher. Seren’s story becomes even more intriguing. He is gaining more responsibility for his fate, and yet more helplessness to it as well. I don’t know about all of you, but I love stories where there is no clear answer, where the characters have to expand, to learn, to change. Seren has more challenges this book, and it is fantastic seeing how he conquers them, whether solo or with his trusted people. This isn’t one of those stories where you can guess exactly what will happen, and I love it!
Overall, this was a pleasure to read, and I can’t wait to continue Seren’s story in the next book.
#JusticeforJude
May 3, 2025
“You will have plenty to offer me when you are queen. I will never ask for your soul.”
First of all, I am completely obsessed with the Fallen. There is something to be said when a demon is impressed with you.
I am in complete awe of this series. It will truly be unlike anything you've read before.
You are instantly immersed in this dark and unforgiving world. You are thrusted into the minds and hearts of these characters. I just love them all!
The way the author blends and weaves each character with their unique writing style will have you feel you are reading poetry.
Don't get me wrong, the world building and the uniqueness of the book feels dark fantasy. It is action-packed, has some great pinning and excellent banter, but each and every line feels profound.
Stellar, stellar, stellar!
* It's speaks volumes if I reread a book. I have read book 1 three times now, and I am already planning an annotating reread when book 2 goes live for purchase.
First of all, I am completely obsessed with the Fallen. There is something to be said when a demon is impressed with you.
I am in complete awe of this series. It will truly be unlike anything you've read before.
You are instantly immersed in this dark and unforgiving world. You are thrusted into the minds and hearts of these characters. I just love them all!
The way the author blends and weaves each character with their unique writing style will have you feel you are reading poetry.
Don't get me wrong, the world building and the uniqueness of the book feels dark fantasy. It is action-packed, has some great pinning and excellent banter, but each and every line feels profound.
Stellar, stellar, stellar!
* It's speaks volumes if I reread a book. I have read book 1 three times now, and I am already planning an annotating reread when book 2 goes live for purchase.
May 7, 2025
"Darkness tends to cling to those with the most light."
The Ruined King by K. C Wassem
Most sequels have a shaky start before managing to withhold the narrative structure required to push one further into the story, but Wassem did it flawlessly. I loved book one, the strengths so readily evident to anyone who reads it, and yet somehow, book two is a showcase of growth, dedication, and brilliant craftsmanship.
I will never understand how she ties all her world building together so beautifully, so intricately. A perfect metaphor for fate itself, the way it intertwines - Wassem brings to life a whole new meaning of narrative structure, meta plotting, and all-consuming world building that constructs the wonderful message she is telling.
We get to spend so much more time exploring the characters and who they are in this instalment. We get to see their past and glimpse at their future, all while coming to understand the way magic is both a corruption spreading, and new life taking root. We also get to learn more about how deep it all goes.
If you want a series that doesn't shy away from profound stories, vast and intelligent world building, characters with bonds that will haunt you for a lifetime, and a writing style with a certain type of raw elegance, than you need to read this series.
I need the next book now, please.
The Ruined King by K. C Wassem
Most sequels have a shaky start before managing to withhold the narrative structure required to push one further into the story, but Wassem did it flawlessly. I loved book one, the strengths so readily evident to anyone who reads it, and yet somehow, book two is a showcase of growth, dedication, and brilliant craftsmanship.
I will never understand how she ties all her world building together so beautifully, so intricately. A perfect metaphor for fate itself, the way it intertwines - Wassem brings to life a whole new meaning of narrative structure, meta plotting, and all-consuming world building that constructs the wonderful message she is telling.
We get to spend so much more time exploring the characters and who they are in this instalment. We get to see their past and glimpse at their future, all while coming to understand the way magic is both a corruption spreading, and new life taking root. We also get to learn more about how deep it all goes.
If you want a series that doesn't shy away from profound stories, vast and intelligent world building, characters with bonds that will haunt you for a lifetime, and a writing style with a certain type of raw elegance, than you need to read this series.
I need the next book now, please.
March 25, 2025
When I say this is the perfect follow-up to book one and so much more 😭 I had the honor of being an early reader for this. The lore, the characters, and the world building—it all continues to grow and pulls you back in. The story enters in not long after the events of book one, and it kicks off with a bang. I was constantly enthralled by the dynamic with Mila and Seren (after everything that happened at the end of book one, iykyk) And watching them work through it 😭
The action is intense, and the tension is tight the entire book. I couldn't stop reading, and still, I find myself thinking about everything that transpired and I am OBSESSED.
Jude, Seren, and Mila, they are all such amazing and grounded characters. I love the way they all connect and watching them throughout book two 🥹 It's special to watch such beautifully crafted characters continue to grow. Also, Mila is so cool. They all are, but... I'm a sucker for a girl who goes off when she needs to.
Then we have LUMEN. This entire book... just... ugh. You'll have to read and see, but 👀 I have never been so conflicted over a character in my LIFE. I love him and love to hate him 😭
I loved getting to see more of the world. And the new characters added so much to the story, and watching them fit into the main three dynamic was fun.
Biggest thing, watching Seren grapple with the things he's forced to face, all while healing from so much hurt, it has me WEAK and I'm constantly wanting to just hug him. His character arc, plus the way his friends are there... it's so beautiful.
The twists and turns of this had me shocked, and I cannot wait to see where the story goes! 100000 stars 🌟
The action is intense, and the tension is tight the entire book. I couldn't stop reading, and still, I find myself thinking about everything that transpired and I am OBSESSED.
Jude, Seren, and Mila, they are all such amazing and grounded characters. I love the way they all connect and watching them throughout book two 🥹 It's special to watch such beautifully crafted characters continue to grow. Also, Mila is so cool. They all are, but... I'm a sucker for a girl who goes off when she needs to.
Then we have LUMEN. This entire book... just... ugh. You'll have to read and see, but 👀 I have never been so conflicted over a character in my LIFE. I love him and love to hate him 😭
I loved getting to see more of the world. And the new characters added so much to the story, and watching them fit into the main three dynamic was fun.
Biggest thing, watching Seren grapple with the things he's forced to face, all while healing from so much hurt, it has me WEAK and I'm constantly wanting to just hug him. His character arc, plus the way his friends are there... it's so beautiful.
The twists and turns of this had me shocked, and I cannot wait to see where the story goes! 100000 stars 🌟
April 28, 2025
A few key points to explain how much love I have for this series:
🪽 This is easily one of my favorite series out there. The Ruined King is my #1 read this year so far.
🪽 I reread book 1 in anticipation of this one's release, and I will be doing the same for the next release so I can annotate the physical copy. I rarely reread books. My last reread was my fave book of all time, so that shows how high up on my list this series is.
🪽 I had custom dolls made of the 3 main characters of this series to show my love, & I have plans to order custom candles for them too (just need the time to dedicate to it lol).
I read this as an EARC gifted to me by the author, but all thoughts are my own.
I follow K.C. Wassem on Instagram and there were a few times she expressed the difficulty of writing TRK. But at no point in this book did I see the effects of this. The Ruined King is FLAWLESS. I loved every freaking word.
K.C. Wassem is another indie author that makes me scream my support for including indies in your reading, too.
The yearning was amped up from book one, and it meshes so well with the over all tone of foreboding. The twists and reveals though!?!?!?! Those were definitely my favorite parts of this book and I looove where they're going & how everything plays with the lines of religion. The new questions arising from this second installment really have me just wanting to live inside K.C. Wassem's brain because HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO WAIT FOR BOOK 3 😭
There's literally not a single thing I don't love about this series (except that it's not getting nearly as much attention as it deserves). I really hope this series will pop off in the bookverse so more people will pick it up and have a new indie author to rave about with me 💛
Also my phone is now full of pictures of quotes to add to my digital quote journal 😍
🪽 This is easily one of my favorite series out there. The Ruined King is my #1 read this year so far.
🪽 I reread book 1 in anticipation of this one's release, and I will be doing the same for the next release so I can annotate the physical copy. I rarely reread books. My last reread was my fave book of all time, so that shows how high up on my list this series is.
🪽 I had custom dolls made of the 3 main characters of this series to show my love, & I have plans to order custom candles for them too (just need the time to dedicate to it lol).
I read this as an EARC gifted to me by the author, but all thoughts are my own.
I follow K.C. Wassem on Instagram and there were a few times she expressed the difficulty of writing TRK. But at no point in this book did I see the effects of this. The Ruined King is FLAWLESS. I loved every freaking word.
K.C. Wassem is another indie author that makes me scream my support for including indies in your reading, too.
The yearning was amped up from book one, and it meshes so well with the over all tone of foreboding. The twists and reveals though!?!?!?! Those were definitely my favorite parts of this book and I looove where they're going & how everything plays with the lines of religion. The new questions arising from this second installment really have me just wanting to live inside K.C. Wassem's brain because HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO WAIT FOR BOOK 3 😭
There's literally not a single thing I don't love about this series (except that it's not getting nearly as much attention as it deserves). I really hope this series will pop off in the bookverse so more people will pick it up and have a new indie author to rave about with me 💛
Also my phone is now full of pictures of quotes to add to my digital quote journal 😍
May 4, 2025
What happens when the fate controls every aspect of your life? When it dictates who you can and cannot be. But can fate be changed?
Seren, Jude, and Mila each have fate controlling their lives, yet at each turn they are fighting against it to remain together. They need each other in ways that not even the universe or gods can interfere with.
Seren though he has lost parts of his memories is starting to regain memories he has blocked out which leaves him questioning who he truly is and if he can really save the world as so many believe he is meant to.
Jude is the last of his people, but as secrets come to light it proves he has his own fate that has been controlling him in ways no one knew about. He is also fighting to stay with Seren to protect him and support him to his place no matter where it may be.
Mila the daughter of a dangerous ruler and connected to a bloodline meant to destroy Seren’s fate, yet cannot bring herself to step into the role that her people have expected of her.
These three together are witty, charming and so important to each other. Watching them together reminds you of how messy being a teenager can be, throw in the fate of the world and destiny it only complicates things more.
It’s a coming of age story with so much depth and rawness, because what teenager hasn’t felt as if they do not truly know who they are or where they are meant to go?
Seren, Jude, and Mila each have fate controlling their lives, yet at each turn they are fighting against it to remain together. They need each other in ways that not even the universe or gods can interfere with.
Seren though he has lost parts of his memories is starting to regain memories he has blocked out which leaves him questioning who he truly is and if he can really save the world as so many believe he is meant to.
Jude is the last of his people, but as secrets come to light it proves he has his own fate that has been controlling him in ways no one knew about. He is also fighting to stay with Seren to protect him and support him to his place no matter where it may be.
Mila the daughter of a dangerous ruler and connected to a bloodline meant to destroy Seren’s fate, yet cannot bring herself to step into the role that her people have expected of her.
These three together are witty, charming and so important to each other. Watching them together reminds you of how messy being a teenager can be, throw in the fate of the world and destiny it only complicates things more.
It’s a coming of age story with so much depth and rawness, because what teenager hasn’t felt as if they do not truly know who they are or where they are meant to go?
April 25, 2025
This is everything I needed in this book. If you loved book one, you will ADORE book 2. I was so happy with the world expanding, the tension, my baby Seren, and Jude might have a chokehold on me for all good reasons.
May 15, 2025
Like other fellow readers, I loved every freaking word here. I've loved how I still love the main characters and how lovely action-packed in its own dark fantasy the story is.
July 9, 2025
I think the second book has officially stolen my heart. It’s a wonderful story that blends fantasy and technology in such a seamless and well-crafted way it just works perfectly. This installment reveals so many details about the past of some of my favorite characters, and I absolutely loved discovering the kingdom of Andanova. Jude’s backstory was simply spectacular. He was already my favorite character, but this book made me love him even more.
I also found myself unexpectedly empathizing with Lumen, which says a lot. This was one of those books I just couldn’t put down once I started. The development of Seren’s relationships with both Mila and Jude was beautifully done (between us, Seren x Jude 4ever).
The new characters introduced are so endearing it’s impossible not to grow attached to them immediately. I can’t wait to keep reading and find out what fate has in store for my trio of traumatized kids forced to carry the weight of humanity on their shoulders (K.C., please, let them rest a little 🥲).
And the plot twists? Mind-blowing, addictive, perfectly placed I loved every single one. I honestly can’t recommend this series enough. Every page was an emotional rollercoaster, and I’m so ready for more.
I also found myself unexpectedly empathizing with Lumen, which says a lot. This was one of those books I just couldn’t put down once I started. The development of Seren’s relationships with both Mila and Jude was beautifully done (between us, Seren x Jude 4ever).
The new characters introduced are so endearing it’s impossible not to grow attached to them immediately. I can’t wait to keep reading and find out what fate has in store for my trio of traumatized kids forced to carry the weight of humanity on their shoulders (K.C., please, let them rest a little 🥲).
And the plot twists? Mind-blowing, addictive, perfectly placed I loved every single one. I honestly can’t recommend this series enough. Every page was an emotional rollercoaster, and I’m so ready for more.
July 3, 2025
Okay wow.
Where should I start? There's so much going on. We learn many things, get glimpses into Seren's and Jude's past, there's some kissing and tension going on and too many near death experiences. Sorrows and Prayers. This book is handing us death, chaos and destruction and I'm here for it.
.☘︎ ݁˖ “𝐀 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐨𝐦, 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫.” .☘︎ ݁˖
I want my babies to be happy, is that too much to ask for 😭
My poor baby Jude went through it, pls leave him alone! (I'm looking at you K.C. Wassem 🤨)
Though he finally had some lovey-dovey time 🤭
I'm still hurt. His pain is my pain, so don't hurt him in the next book(s). He reached his pain and near death quota.
⋆.˚ ☾ "𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐉𝐮𝐝𝐞, 𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐟 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐤𝐲, 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐛𝐥𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞." ⭒.˚⋆
The different perspectives are very interesting and I am simply obsessed with the writing style. K.C. Wassem really has a way with words and the storytelling and world building are fantastic!
The new characters, Felix and Cin, are very likable. Their banter and dynamic is hilarious, they're just so unserious 😂 and the sweet lil weasel, Theo, is absolutely adorable, I want him as my companion too!
I liked the glimpses into Emeryn's past, as she is a very complex character it's good to learn more about her. The revelation of Seren's father wasn't really surprising, but I'm also looking forward to learning more about him.
Where should I start? There's so much going on. We learn many things, get glimpses into Seren's and Jude's past, there's some kissing and tension going on and too many near death experiences. Sorrows and Prayers. This book is handing us death, chaos and destruction and I'm here for it.
.☘︎ ݁˖ “𝐀 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐨𝐦, 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫.” .☘︎ ݁˖
I want my babies to be happy, is that too much to ask for 😭
My poor baby Jude went through it, pls leave him alone! (I'm looking at you K.C. Wassem 🤨)
Though he finally had some lovey-dovey time 🤭
I'm still hurt. His pain is my pain, so don't hurt him in the next book(s). He reached his pain and near death quota.
⋆.˚ ☾ "𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐭 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐭 𝐉𝐮𝐝𝐞, 𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐟 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐤𝐲, 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐛𝐥𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐜𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐲𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞." ⭒.˚⋆
The different perspectives are very interesting and I am simply obsessed with the writing style. K.C. Wassem really has a way with words and the storytelling and world building are fantastic!
The new characters, Felix and Cin, are very likable. Their banter and dynamic is hilarious, they're just so unserious 😂 and the sweet lil weasel, Theo, is absolutely adorable, I want him as my companion too!
I liked the glimpses into Emeryn's past, as she is a very complex character it's good to learn more about her. The revelation of Seren's father wasn't really surprising, but I'm also looking forward to learning more about him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2025
“A prince of a dead kingdom, a princess of demons, and a destined king of worlds traveling together"
I started this book not knowing it would become a permanent ache in my chest.
✧ Book 1 gave me mystery, longing, and slow-burn tension that wrapped itself around me like a noose.
✧ Book 2 unraveled every thread I held onto — truth came like a knife, not a gift.
✧ Jude broke me. Seren haunted me.
And when the memories returned, I didn’t know whether to feel relief or rage.
✧ This isn’t a story of healing — it’s a story of remembrance. Of finding out the worst truths about yourself and still daring to love someone.
✧ And that ending? It didn’t just hurt — it hollowed me out.
Characters & Quotes
As the story unfolds and love begins to pour, my yearning for the unraveling bond between Jude and Seren increases day by day.
☆Jude (He was the false prince with no kingdom, no family, no purpose.)
"You can, Seren. You must reach for the stars,” Jude said theatrically.
Seren lifted his head, his eyes glistening with tears. “What if they’re beyond my reach?”
Jude rested his cheek on Seren’s shoulder, his voice softer. “Then I will put you on my shoulders, and we will reach them together.”
Omgggg oh my godddd, this was the burning point this was the actual turnaround in their relationship. I was doomed cooked knowing well this is bringing some crunch to this slow burn romance. 💓🤏🏻
“I don’t have a family. I’ve had one goal for years, but I’ve never known how to reach it. When I met you, I finally felt like I had a grander purpose, as silly as that may seem. I felt…important.”
My precious Jude🤧 how I shattered my tears and my weeping continued for days after knowing your family once existed.
Jude may have missed his brother but I missed him being around Jude so much.
"I can’t seem to figure out where I belong"
To my heart where else!!!!😭😭😭😭
"If you asked me to stay, I’d ask you for how long. If you asked me to stay until morning, then I would leave when the sun rose. If you said until you grew tired of me, then I’d leave quietly in the night as you slept. But if you asked me to stay until the end…"
"Well, then, I would never leave your side"
Do I even need to explain!!!! Nooooooo😫😫😫 Jude stole the show from the FL in one swipe cut one single moment he was granted with Jude and he said this all guess what will happen when the true story begins.
☆Seren (Sleep was Seren’s dreaded enemy)
"Isn’t it obvious?” he said. “I’m thinking of how badly I want to kiss you."
Here comes the real damsel in distress passed half of the book in the name of searching for his identity than family and finally true love❤️🩹
Seren you need to make your head clear there was nothing between you and Mila 💣
"He had been terrified to show the people at the celebration that this was what he was supposed to be: the incarnation of self-sacrifice and light—resplendent, beloved, and revered. "
All I see is a personality glitch at the big end
Mortified and terrified he's been shifted from being a lab rat to being the princess locked in a tower.
"And the truth had not changed. He’d woken up in a world with Jude in it, and for them to part ways… Well, that thought bloomed into an ache across Seren’s chest. It was almost worse than the sting he had felt from Mila’s word"
More than speaking Seren kept his mind wandering I see!!! Jude was there to speak this time🥹🛐
"I have met Death, and She is kind,
Like waves that crash in a madman’s mind.
A kingdom of gold,
To a devil, I sold,
My daughters, my sons, and my eternal soul.”
"When Jude smiled, it was like the sun breaking through clouds, and Seren found himself leaning closer, irresistibly drawn to that light."
Nth time of Seren praising the love of his life❤️🩹😫
"Always.
Always.
Always."
🙌🏻Always from Severus Snape is now getting some new meaning >>
Overall if I can rate I'll rate this book 100/10
Best Wishes to the author
Keep Jude's flirt and love coming and let Seren have some rest they both deserve love❤️🩹
I started this book not knowing it would become a permanent ache in my chest.
✧ Book 1 gave me mystery, longing, and slow-burn tension that wrapped itself around me like a noose.
✧ Book 2 unraveled every thread I held onto — truth came like a knife, not a gift.
✧ Jude broke me. Seren haunted me.
And when the memories returned, I didn’t know whether to feel relief or rage.
✧ This isn’t a story of healing — it’s a story of remembrance. Of finding out the worst truths about yourself and still daring to love someone.
✧ And that ending? It didn’t just hurt — it hollowed me out.
Characters & Quotes
As the story unfolds and love begins to pour, my yearning for the unraveling bond between Jude and Seren increases day by day.
☆Jude (He was the false prince with no kingdom, no family, no purpose.)
"You can, Seren. You must reach for the stars,” Jude said theatrically.
Seren lifted his head, his eyes glistening with tears. “What if they’re beyond my reach?”
Jude rested his cheek on Seren’s shoulder, his voice softer. “Then I will put you on my shoulders, and we will reach them together.”
Omgggg oh my godddd, this was the burning point this was the actual turnaround in their relationship. I was doomed cooked knowing well this is bringing some crunch to this slow burn romance. 💓🤏🏻
“I don’t have a family. I’ve had one goal for years, but I’ve never known how to reach it. When I met you, I finally felt like I had a grander purpose, as silly as that may seem. I felt…important.”
My precious Jude🤧 how I shattered my tears and my weeping continued for days after knowing your family once existed.
Jude may have missed his brother but I missed him being around Jude so much.
"I can’t seem to figure out where I belong"
To my heart where else!!!!😭😭😭😭
"If you asked me to stay, I’d ask you for how long. If you asked me to stay until morning, then I would leave when the sun rose. If you said until you grew tired of me, then I’d leave quietly in the night as you slept. But if you asked me to stay until the end…"
"Well, then, I would never leave your side"
Do I even need to explain!!!! Nooooooo😫😫😫 Jude stole the show from the FL in one swipe cut one single moment he was granted with Jude and he said this all guess what will happen when the true story begins.
☆Seren (Sleep was Seren’s dreaded enemy)
"Isn’t it obvious?” he said. “I’m thinking of how badly I want to kiss you."
Here comes the real damsel in distress passed half of the book in the name of searching for his identity than family and finally true love❤️🩹
Seren you need to make your head clear there was nothing between you and Mila 💣
"He had been terrified to show the people at the celebration that this was what he was supposed to be: the incarnation of self-sacrifice and light—resplendent, beloved, and revered. "
All I see is a personality glitch at the big end
Mortified and terrified he's been shifted from being a lab rat to being the princess locked in a tower.
"And the truth had not changed. He’d woken up in a world with Jude in it, and for them to part ways… Well, that thought bloomed into an ache across Seren’s chest. It was almost worse than the sting he had felt from Mila’s word"
More than speaking Seren kept his mind wandering I see!!! Jude was there to speak this time🥹🛐
"I have met Death, and She is kind,
Like waves that crash in a madman’s mind.
A kingdom of gold,
To a devil, I sold,
My daughters, my sons, and my eternal soul.”
"When Jude smiled, it was like the sun breaking through clouds, and Seren found himself leaning closer, irresistibly drawn to that light."
Nth time of Seren praising the love of his life❤️🩹😫
"Always.
Always.
Always."
🙌🏻Always from Severus Snape is now getting some new meaning >>
Overall if I can rate I'll rate this book 100/10
Best Wishes to the author
Keep Jude's flirt and love coming and let Seren have some rest they both deserve love❤️🩹
May 16, 2025
It feels so absolutely amazing to be back in this world with Seren, Jude and Mila. The ending of book one was such a cliffhanger and man, do we land up right in the middle of it again. I love this story, I love how cool the magic system is. The gods, the reincarnation, the veil, the demons, the clergy that governs the faith within Lumina, it is all just such an experience!
I loved the progression of this story, how we start out with Seren and Mila in Durcova and how we eventually land up back where it all began so that Seren can fulfill his fate. The story was also jam-packed with action, such as running for one's life and loads of demon-killing. Lumen is so sketchy in this one, I know he was the villain in book one but I wasn't really sure what his end game was in this one - we actually get to see some compassion I really didn't think him capable of and that completely threw me through the wringer!
What I really enjoyed were all the scenes in the veil, I love that we finally get to travel to Andanova and experience this great city in ruins. This is also where the story starts to climax and I really enjoyed the fight with the demon king. There were some plot twists that honestly had my jaw dropping!! We learn alot about our three main characters in this book and they did a really good amount of growing too - which I always appreciate. Plus, the slow-burn was absolutely sizzling and the story just kept getting better and better. I really cannot wait for book three - especially after that end scene!!
I loved the progression of this story, how we start out with Seren and Mila in Durcova and how we eventually land up back where it all began so that Seren can fulfill his fate. The story was also jam-packed with action, such as running for one's life and loads of demon-killing. Lumen is so sketchy in this one, I know he was the villain in book one but I wasn't really sure what his end game was in this one - we actually get to see some compassion I really didn't think him capable of and that completely threw me through the wringer!
What I really enjoyed were all the scenes in the veil, I love that we finally get to travel to Andanova and experience this great city in ruins. This is also where the story starts to climax and I really enjoyed the fight with the demon king. There were some plot twists that honestly had my jaw dropping!! We learn alot about our three main characters in this book and they did a really good amount of growing too - which I always appreciate. Plus, the slow-burn was absolutely sizzling and the story just kept getting better and better. I really cannot wait for book three - especially after that end scene!!
July 1, 2025
“Those who sins without regret must ask the gods for mercy, lest the shadows of your deeds consume your soul”
Totally enthralled by this book—I already can’t wait for the next one! From the opening chapter, The Ruined King gripped me with its gorgeous, lyrical prose and hauntingly immersive world. K.C. Wassem’s writing strikes a poetic balance between aching emotion and dark fantasy, wrapping readers in a tale filled with heartbreak, betrayal, found family, and a burning desire for redemption.
The fantasy world-building is stunning—rich in history, divine lore, and unsettling magic. Between stained-glass goddesses, cursed forests, and the tragic divide of realms, Wassem creates a realm that feels simultaneously sacred and decaying. It’s surreal, magical, and soaked in pain, yet threaded with hope.
The story is framed by tragedy and perseverance, anchored in the journeys of Seren and Mila, two broken souls bound by circumstance and magic. Seren is a tortured but determined protagonist—someone you root for even as his mistakes weigh heavily. Mila (Kamilah), the former Sanguine Sister, is strong-willed and vulnerable in equal measure. Her struggle with trust, memory, and autonomy is heartbreakingly real. Their bond is built slowly, with a magnetic push-and-pull dynamic filled with guilt, care, and buried tenderness. Their scenes together—whether quiet, fierce, or broken—are unforgettable.
Wassem’s use of spiritual mythology, oppressive priesthoods, and corrupt theocracies creates a world as morally complex as the characters. The themes of divine punishment, power, memory, and identity are explored with nuance. And the pacing? It’s perfect—interwoven with flashbacks, lore, journal entries, and moments of raw, emotional honesty.
“One of us should go out into the world,” Seren says to a caged bird. “You can make lots of friends.”
Moments like this hurt—in the best way.
This book is filled with poetic echoes of classic fairytales and epic sagas, wrapped in a cinematic fantasy setting. If you love A Court of Thorns and Roses, The Cruel Prince, Once Upon A Broken Heart, or From Blood and Ash—but wish they had deeper emotion and a darker soul—The Ruined King is your next obsession.
Available now across all formats—add it to your TBR immediately. Thank you, K.C. Wassem, for this unforgettable experience with The Ruined King. I’ll be thinking about Seren and Mila for a long time.
Totally enthralled by this book—I already can’t wait for the next one! From the opening chapter, The Ruined King gripped me with its gorgeous, lyrical prose and hauntingly immersive world. K.C. Wassem’s writing strikes a poetic balance between aching emotion and dark fantasy, wrapping readers in a tale filled with heartbreak, betrayal, found family, and a burning desire for redemption.
The fantasy world-building is stunning—rich in history, divine lore, and unsettling magic. Between stained-glass goddesses, cursed forests, and the tragic divide of realms, Wassem creates a realm that feels simultaneously sacred and decaying. It’s surreal, magical, and soaked in pain, yet threaded with hope.
The story is framed by tragedy and perseverance, anchored in the journeys of Seren and Mila, two broken souls bound by circumstance and magic. Seren is a tortured but determined protagonist—someone you root for even as his mistakes weigh heavily. Mila (Kamilah), the former Sanguine Sister, is strong-willed and vulnerable in equal measure. Her struggle with trust, memory, and autonomy is heartbreakingly real. Their bond is built slowly, with a magnetic push-and-pull dynamic filled with guilt, care, and buried tenderness. Their scenes together—whether quiet, fierce, or broken—are unforgettable.
Wassem’s use of spiritual mythology, oppressive priesthoods, and corrupt theocracies creates a world as morally complex as the characters. The themes of divine punishment, power, memory, and identity are explored with nuance. And the pacing? It’s perfect—interwoven with flashbacks, lore, journal entries, and moments of raw, emotional honesty.
“One of us should go out into the world,” Seren says to a caged bird. “You can make lots of friends.”
Moments like this hurt—in the best way.
This book is filled with poetic echoes of classic fairytales and epic sagas, wrapped in a cinematic fantasy setting. If you love A Court of Thorns and Roses, The Cruel Prince, Once Upon A Broken Heart, or From Blood and Ash—but wish they had deeper emotion and a darker soul—The Ruined King is your next obsession.
Available now across all formats—add it to your TBR immediately. Thank you, K.C. Wassem, for this unforgettable experience with The Ruined King. I’ll be thinking about Seren and Mila for a long time.
January 12, 2026
Artists Craft and Imagination
The setting is layered. Landscapes are shaped by history, politics, and belief systems that influence how characters think and act. Nothing is random. A ruined road matters because of who once traveled it. A minor law matters because of how it can be broken. The author understands that detail is not about excess, but about relevance—and it shows.
Characterization is where the novel truly excels. Even moments of triumph feel grounded, earned through loss or compromise. The prose is restrained and confident. Dialogue is especially strong—revealing, and often layered with unspoken meaning. You sense what characters cannot say as clearly as what they do. Magic, conflict, and power operate within clearly defined boundaries, and the story never cheats to escape them. Tension comes not from sudden twists, but from watching the inevitable approach of consequences the reader can see long before the characters do.
This is fantasy for readers who appreciate craftsmanship and depth. It’s a novel that trusts its structure, its characters, and its world—and that confidence makes it absolutely magical.
The setting is layered. Landscapes are shaped by history, politics, and belief systems that influence how characters think and act. Nothing is random. A ruined road matters because of who once traveled it. A minor law matters because of how it can be broken. The author understands that detail is not about excess, but about relevance—and it shows.
Characterization is where the novel truly excels. Even moments of triumph feel grounded, earned through loss or compromise. The prose is restrained and confident. Dialogue is especially strong—revealing, and often layered with unspoken meaning. You sense what characters cannot say as clearly as what they do. Magic, conflict, and power operate within clearly defined boundaries, and the story never cheats to escape them. Tension comes not from sudden twists, but from watching the inevitable approach of consequences the reader can see long before the characters do.
This is fantasy for readers who appreciate craftsmanship and depth. It’s a novel that trusts its structure, its characters, and its world—and that confidence makes it absolutely magical.
September 15, 2025
Loved this!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews