Mages Of Ruin City

by N. Sonia Nkera

In Ruin, the depraved middle City of the Tri Provinces, you are either in a gang, running from one, or trying to survive the threat of the caravan raids from the Northern Mage Court.

Kharyse survives as the sole female gang runner in one of Ruin's biggest gangs.

When an assignment causes her to cross paths with The Saints, the biggest gang in Ruin, she finds herself embroiled in a dark mystery surrounding their enigmatic leader, The Karaza, and the Northern province which is hidden away by a wall of water.

But these secrets span centuries. The three provinces are at stake and the unlikely allies Kharyse has made on the streets are all caught up in the middle of it.

A gang princess under lock and key

An outcast of Northern heritage

A southern chambermaid with a secret

They must uncover the secrets which link them all together and threaten the three provinces.

Genres: Fantasy

ebook

Published January 1, 2025

Reviews

[Anna Copp · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was honored to receive an ARC copy of this book to review and I'm so glad that I did. I adored this book. It has action, mystery, romance, magic... what more could someone ask for? There are so many characters who provide such dynamics to the story. I honestly don't think I could pick a favorite because each has little quirks to their personalities that make me love them.

The slow burn with some of the characters? Whoooo... some of those scenes were hot! The spice came from the sensuality and the comments some of the characters made so if you're someone that enjoys spice but not all out sex, this is a great option.

I loved learning about the different territories, gangs, magic, and class systems. It was all so interesting!

The only reason I didn't give this a full 5/5 is because the back and forth between "present day" and the past got a little confusing at times, especially with it coming from so many characters too. Nkera labeling the chapters and throwbacks did help with this but it was still a little confusing at times.

I absolutely cannot wait for the 2nd book in this duology because the way my heart was going at the end has the 2nd book being a need at this point.

4.5/5 (hopefully someday we can give half stars on here)

[Val · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75

first of all, ahzlarnsenna ahzlarnsenna ahzlarnsenna ahzlarnsenna ahzlarnsenna ahzlarnsenna ahzlarnsenna

now that I've gotten that away, this was a wonderfully unique world of tri provinces. the world building was so dense and awesome.

this was like watching the way everything goes into chaos slowly without having any idea of what happened.

i wouldn't say it was perfect, especially some character developments being too sudden, and some romantic pairings having so much potential but disappearing off screen for all of the book. I wasn't keen with the most povs being from character i didn't find that appealing but hey, ahzlarnsenna steal the show for me and make it all worth it. my heart dropped to my stomach at the ending and i cannot wait for second book!

[Reina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Mages of Ruin City
Author: N. Sonia Nkera
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genere: New Adult High-Fantasy
World Building: 🌎🌎🌎🌎
Romance: ❤️❤️

Swipe for synopsis 》》》》》

This is an ARC review. This book is available on Kindle Unlimited.

I received an Arc of this book from the Author, and I was excited as soon as I read the synopsis and saw her posts for the book. 

I don't often get to read ARC's in my favorite genres and this one had everything I love about a Fantasy novel. Beautiful world building, lots of lore, magic and mystery. And the characters are just.... 🤌🤌

Kharyse is a heroine in the making, but first, she has to survive the dangerous streets of Ruin City as a gang runner. Her unique position means she has friends in both high and low places, which might be the only reason she and her younger brother have survived so far. That and the help of a secret gift from her mother. But she also has enemies, and when her brother is killed during an attack, she will settle for nothing less than revenge. 

When she is captured by the one gang she's managed to always avoid, she realizes that it might actually be the opportunity for revenge she's been waiting for. Especially since they have mistaken her for her brother. 

BUCKLE UP BUTTERCUPS! We have so many fun tropes in this book, including

Kidnapped and Tortured, Mistaken Gender, Hidden Powers, Satisfying Revenge, Mafia Vibes, Dangerous And Grayish MMC, Pretend marrige  

#bookreview #magesofruincity #fantasynovels #fantasybooks #bookish #booksta #bookstagram #newauthort #pocauthors #blackfantasybooks #newbooks #2024books

[fcb_xd · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all I want to thank the author for letting me be part of the ARC team, it has made reading this truly special.

Although I have to admit that all the names, magic system and terminology messed me up at first, I really enjoyed this book in a way I didn’t expect. It was like sliding into a rabbit hole without realizing it until you were falling so fast you didn’t see anything coming. There was something primal and complicit about the romances, although none was resolved, and one of them actually broke my heart. Ruin City is a beautifully horrible place that doesn’t have mercy on anyone, written like no other. The ending was unbelievable and I can’t wait for the next book.

[Rhiannon Jerrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this novel and let me just say I was hooked. This novel wonderfully mixes adventure, action, magic and a few hints at a slow burn romance (hopefully) I loved our mix of characters and their dynamics with one another and the wider world at large. The world building, for me at least, was wonderfully crafted. I could easily envisage myself with our characters traversing the streets of Ruin. I laughed, I cried and I was on the edge of my seat reading this. I can’t wait for the second book in this duology to carry on exploring this world with our ragtag group of characters as their story continues. A really lovely solid fantasy novel that didn’t feel intimidating to hop into and is definitely worth a read if you’re looking for a really entertaining fantasy novel.

[Emma Chamberlain · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Sonia Nkera for letting me be a part of the ARC team! Let me start off with saying how fun this book was to read. I absolutely love the topic of the gangs and caravans which is what made me interested in this book at the start. And oh my gosh the characters were absolutely great, I don't think there was a single one (of the good guys of course, i didnt freak woth silver obviously) that I didn't like even a little bit. I love books that start off with the main characters and then throughout the book there are more and more added to the group. I'll be completely honest, there were a couple small sections that I skimmed a bit which is why this isn't quite a 5⭐️ but I still had a really fun time in this world. AND THE LITTLE BITS OF ROMANCE WE GOT? Living for that. I was all for it and I really hope that these characters work out the way I think they will.

I'm so excited for the second book and I hope I'll be able to sign up for an ARC copy of that because this was a really fun experience!❤️

My final rating is 4.25⭐️

[Khadijah Abdul Sattar · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5/5
Spice level: 🌶️/5

The book in one sentence: Outlaws with magical powers spiral into a web of megalomaniac mages and high-profile street gangs.

If you're short on time, here are the three Rs:
Will I Reread it? Yes.
Will I Rave about it? Maybe.
Would I Recommend it to a friend? Only if they were extremely specific.

Story and Plot - 4/5
I love street gang stories so I really enjoyed this one, however I wish the gang aspect had been an active part of the story. The book was advertised as a gang-action fantasy but the system of how these gangs worked and cooperated with each other was not really developed. I never got to see which gang controls which territory and I really wanted to see the power dynamics and roles within the gangs but I didn't get more than the first few pages. The pacing of the story felt off; sometimes it was all dialogue and no action and at other times everything happened blazing fast. Also, the epilogue didn't make much sense but hopefully that gets resolved in Book 2.

Characters - 4/5
75% of my rating for this is for one word: Izhekar. This actually isn't a stalker romance (which was a happy surprise to find out) and it was more of secret admiration. I loved the dynamic between Izhekar and Kharyse and the sibling bond between him and Ahzlarn is everything! Of course, I loved Shaolen too, he was easily the most adorable character in the book. However, I didn't really enjoy the Mika/Czar/Aventus chapters, they felt trivial and filler - it was tediously repeated that Czar was an oh-so-important character but never told why.
Senna gave me Rapunzel vibes.
My other peeve with Mages of Ruin City is that no one is actually morally grey (even though it was advertised that way). I feel like people just label any brooding, silent and strong character as morally grey which is disappointing. There was so much potential to make Ahzlarn do morally grey stuff (cough, cough, Kaz Brekker knife scene) but it was wasted.
P.S. I tried to pronounce the names in this book and my furniture started floating.

Worldbuilding - 3.5/5
Mostly a map and description of The Ruins, not much was said about the history/culture/lore (except Laeriza) which removed some of the fantasy vibes.

Style of Writing - 3/5
First off, Mages Of Ruin City had been compared to Six of Crows and that's what made me sign up for the ARC. Although I fairly enjoyed the book, I was disappointed by the advertisement (again.) as it didn't contain any of SoC's charm. Like mentioned, the gangs weren't explored plus the word "gang" itself was used so many times with no synonym or description that it hurt my eyes.
I truly believe there didn't need to be so many POVs, multi-pov is one of my favorite tropes but only if done right. The book had a POV for every single character it introduced, no matter how trivial. The author should have just stuck with Izhekar, Kharyse, Ahzlarn and Senna. Czar could have been added, but like I said, his importance was never clear and the urge to skip his chapters was huge. Everyone else was a supporting character that didn't need their own POV.
There were a couple minor grammar mistakes, especially in the dialogue. Sonia, if you're reading this; fix capitalization after quotation marks.

[Leigha Lennon · Rating 5 out of 5]

N. Sonia Nkera’s Mages of Ruin City is an electrifying urban fantasy filled with high-stakes action, morally complex characters, and a richly imagined world. From the first page, this book immerses you in the chaos and intrigue of Ruin City, a gritty, lawless place where survival depends on wits, alliances, and a willingness to fight for what matters most.

Kharyse is a powerhouse protagonist whose fierce determination and raw emotional depth drive the story forward. Her quest for revenge after witnessing her brother’s murder is compelling and heartbreaking, and her transformation over the course of the narrative is beautifully written.

The ensemble cast of allies is nothing short of brilliant. From the enigmatic Northern outcast to the chambermaid with hidden depths and the locked-away gang princess, each character brings a unique perspective and set of skills to the table. Their relationships are nuanced, their interactions dynamic, and their collective journey feels authentic and earned.

Ruin City itself is a masterpiece of world-building—a dangerous, chaotic hub teeming with gang rivalries, magic, and hidden power struggles. The Saints and their mysterious leader, the Karaza, add a layer of suspense and unpredictability that keeps readers on edge. The Northern raids and the magic woven into the story create a sense of urgency and danger that never lets up.

The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists, as Kharyse and her allies uncover shocking secrets about Ruin City and the forces controlling it. The stakes feel real and immediate, and the climax is as satisfying as it is surprising.

Mages of Ruin City is a triumph of dark fantasy, seamlessly blending gritty realism with elements of magic and myth. N. Sonia Nkera has crafted a story that is as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed, and readers will find themselves completely enthralled by her characters and the world they inhabit. This is a must-read for fans of urban fantasy, ensemble casts, and stories of survival and rebellion.

[Atiksha K · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an ARC of this book, the review and all the thoughts are my own.

*This review does not contain any spoilers

*Please read the content warnings of this book and take them very seriously.

Pairing - MF (multiple)
Genre- Fantasy romance, YA
HEA/HFN - No, Cliffhanger
Series - Yes, Duology
POV - Seven

*Review*

Mages of Ruin City starts off extremely strong, with the book hooking you in the very first chapter. Usually, for me, the world building is something I have to get through before I can get to the good part, i.e. the plot and the excitement. But with this book, even though it is high fantasy, the world building happens simultaneously with the plot so it doesn't seen to drag on. The 7 POVs seem like a lot initially, but the last 3 POVs are not incorporated until after the characters have been well established, so you are excited to read from their POVs. In fact no POV, other than Khyarse (POV of first chapter) is incorporated unless there was at least 1 conversation with or about them.
The romances are not given a lot a page time, but despite that, they are well established and I am excited to read about them going forward. You'll get a few well beloved tropes. (Arranged marriage, ruthless killer but soft for her, he stalked her for months because he can feel her pain, etc).

I am very excited for the next book of this duology and until then, I will stay in my denial for a few character deaths that either happen off page or are implied. If there is no body, there was no death. That's my story and I am sticking to it.

P.S. I follow the Montessori method, so my reviews are based on completion without ratings. If I didn’t like a book, I probably wouldn’t finish it and hence won’t review it.

[Victoria Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I get into my review, I would just like to thank the author for picking me for receiving an advanced reader copy.

This book sucked me right into it and wouldn't let me go. All my waking hours seemed to involve either reading this book or thinking about this book. Ruin City seems like a wonderfully terrible place, and our main characters seem to have fully fleshed out personalities with both good and bad qualities.

As for the storyline itself, the story is an interesting concept that I didn't realize I needed in my life. There is plenty of action, especially in the final scenes, when the Mages are after them throughout the whole book with a hint of romance. Kharyse and Izhekar have an interesting relationship with his ability to read her thoughts and feelings, which seems to help him understand her better than in addition to that his protectiveness over her. As well as his helping her to understand her power. The same can be said for Ahzlarn and Senna even though we see less of them in this story. I hope if there is a future story (I pray there is a future story because it can not end like that I have to know what happens to all of them) that we get to see more of these two relationships fleshed out.

Personally, with all of that said, my only problem with the book is that I don't have any access to the continuation of it yet because this story will be playing out in my mind to come up with my own next steps for a very long time.

[Kay Cobbold · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruin City is a place of gangs, intrigue, hidden magic, poverty, violence, and the promise of romance. The opening part of the novel was a challenging read for me as I felt immense sympathy for Kharyse, Czar, and Senna and the difficult lives they were forced to lead. My interest spiked once the Saints gang and the mysterious Karaza were introduced.

N. Sonia Nkera uses Kharyse and Czar to introduce the broader elements of the Tri Provinces. Through them, we learn more about this incredible world beyond Ruin City. The world-building is intense and detailed; at times, I had to revisit passages to keep the Tri Provinces clear in my mind. As the action progressed, characters like Izhekar, Ahzlan, Shaeloh, and Aventus, along with the Velkham women, intrigued me.

The story unfolds through the perspectives of several characters and utilizes flashbacks. This approach not only allowed the author to develop the characters deeply but also provided insights into their origins. While I occasionally got a bit lost, the helpful chapter headings and the ability to recap what I had read made everything clear. Now, I am prepared and eager for the second book in this duology.

[Samantha Picaro · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was excited to read this book and it did not disappoint! The book takes place in a world in a city run by gangs battling for dominance, and a member trying to survive and avenge her brother. It was so refreshing to read a fantasy in which there were no kings or princesses, and in a city instead of a kingdom or village. The plot follows multiple characters as they struggle to survive and try to reach or at least form an alliance with a powerful city in the North to achieve survival as well as riches and hope.

There were multiple points of view from fascinating characters, most of whom are morally grey but each with strong values and loves ones they are fighting for. The book heavily features themes of poverty, survival, corruption, power, family, violence, and hope.

Includes:
-strong main female characters
-action
-found family
-morally grey characters
-dystopian-like
-revenge
-magic
-discovering one's powers
-cliffhanger ending

[Brooklyne Yarra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like a book where I feel like there's no dull moment and this gave me exactly that.

I enjoyed the plot building devices so much, the different timelines and different point of views.

I loved that each point of view came at the right time and it had a purpose it added to the story.

And when we're getting overwhelmed by the darkness of Ruin, we have the romance subplots to elevate the mood.

Czar and Mika were my favorites. I loved how straightforward she was with her emotions. I can't wait for the other romance plotlines to develop in the second book.

But overall, I loved that the romance did not water down the plot, it kept moving.

My biggest points go to the world building. It was incredible. I was sucked into this city.

Off to read book 2 immediately.

[Tequila Banana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book very much!

There’s quite a bit of world building and character development so you have to pay attention, but that’s normal for fantasy so it’s okay.

I would have given it 5 stars except all the time jumps and different POVs were a bit much for me. I can see that they were used to give some context, but some of it could have been omitted.

I’m also not a fan of cliffhangers in the middle of all the action. I much prefer when at least a few conflicts have been resolved so I get a feeling of satisfaction, while still being eager for what is next with the other situations.

Nevertheless, I am excited to see how the story unfolds in book 2.

[Sagan Tribe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was surprised to enjoy this one this much. A friend recommended it and I read it on KU while traveling.

What stood out most for me is that there wasn't a dull moment. Also it's simply but yet again intricately written in that if you don't pay close attention, you might miss the purpose of the time jumps, the foreshadowing they offer and in some of the instances, how they justify previous actions.

As the bonds with the characters grew, so did my connection to them.

The romance is not heavy but it is impactful. And I think the world in general was one of my favorite things about the book. I could clearly see it while reading.

I will definitely be reading the second book.

[Raynbow Corleone · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 — So much was happening here. This book had my mind going. Learning about a world outside our own with magic and gangs and rivalry. Black characters and magic! Slow burn love stories. The hierarchy in some areas. The way to power. What can you do? Greed. Abuse. Strength. Found family. Loss. Torture. This story! I’m so glad to be on the ARC team for the second book so I can revel in this without waiting! Let’s go!

[quillsandpages · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story takes us into a brutal world where danger lurks in every corner, with intricate magic system and raw tangled romances....everything I like in my books. If you love intense, unpredictable fantasy with high stakes and unforgettable characters, this one’s a must-read.

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[rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

I initially received an arc of this book and will have to say that I’m glad to have been chosen to! I enjoyed this book start to finish and was immersed in the world! I will have to say although there a few times where I had trouble with the dialogue since there were a few minor grammar errors but other than that I loved the characters and learning of Ruin City!

[Allison Quezada · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I loved the mages, magic systems and deep family bonds ( both blood and chosen family). As with most fantasy books it took me a bit to understand the world building but I will definitely be looking to read the next book in the series. I need to know what happens next

[Ezlyn Remi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the characters they were everything and in the end, the ending got too tense overall the story was good i got weirder out by the world building but overall i enjoyed it

[Sarah Nabillah · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's like six of crows meets one dark window. You simply need to meet Czar, Azhlarn, Izekhar, Kharyse, Mika, Senna and obviously Shaeloh because he's just my favorite.