I have previously read only two paranormal books, and I was not thrilled with the genre because I found it hard to relate to characters with unearthly abilities. So why did I choose to read this book? There is one simple answer, Lucian Bane wrote it. Although I was not 'on board' initially when Lucian stated he wanted his next series after Dom Wars to contain paranormal elements, I was willing to give this book a chance. I believe that Lucian is a master writer who incorporates sophisticated use of language, a unique story line, well-developed characters and a good dose of campy humor in his books. My expectations for those qualities to be present in a new genre were definitely met in Ruin: The Waking!
The story opens with a description of Isadore, a self-sufficient, quirky neuroscientist from Boston, who is living in a home that she has inherited in the swamps of Louisiana. It seems to be a good place to hide from a crazy ex. Her life pretty much consists of obsessively mopping her floors with Pine Sol, tending to her crawfish traps, and helping her neighbors. Isadore is lovable from the first paragraph of the story. Events take place that lead Ruin, an unworldly but beautiful specimen of a man, to enter Isadore's life. Although apprehensive, she agrees to help Ruin learn the basics of living in a mortal world, including mastering the language, which proves to be quite hilarious at times! Fire and ice are the key components of their relationship, both literally and figuratively. As Ruin discovers his destiny of being a judge and executor of wicked humans, Isadore finds herself drawn to him and yet she consistently challenges him at every turn, something Ruin finds himself attracted to, but shared sexual desires become complicated by morality.
Mr. Bane has drawn me into this story deeply, but has left me with so many unanswered questions. While I was reading, I kept looking at the number of pages left to read, hoping desperately that it would not end before my questions were answered. I was in no way ready for the "to be continued" that appeared. I do, however, highly recommend this book to all readers, regardless of whether or not you like paranormal. And, Lucian, please don't make us wait too long for the next part of Ruin and Isadore's story!