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Original Sin #3
Sacred Ruin
He’s a devil in holy robes… and I’m trapped inside with him.
KatarinaMy mother called in favors, pulled strings, and whispered prayers to get me accepted into the revered Hallow Hall Institute—a place for the lost, the broken, the damned.
She told me I was lucky. Blessed.
Here, the doctors would mend my fractured mind, while the priests and nuns would save my soul.
They say I’m confused. That the angels and devils I see aren’t real.
Just fevered delusions.
But despite the holy men haunting the asylum’s halls, evil lurks in the shadows.
I feel it. I see it.
And then—he arrives.
He is handsome. Charming.
A wolf wrapped in devotion, with scripture on his lips and sin in his eyes.
Within days, he has them all under his spell.
But when he looks at me… I know.
The devil himself has come to Hallow Hall.
Massimo My life is built on blood and vengeance.
I kill for money. I live for retribution. Nothing else matters.
But the trail of my mother’s tortured past leads me here—to Hallow Hall.
A place of whispers and suffering, where faith is a mask and monsters wear crosses.
To get close to the men who need to die, I put on the robes of the righteous.
And then I see her.
The girl who speaks to angels and demons.
The girl who sees right through me.
She calls me a devil.
She’s right.
And I’m going to drag her into hell with me.
This is a forbidden, age-gap dark mafia romance intended only for adult audiences and contains darker themes which should be read with caution.
KatarinaMy mother called in favors, pulled strings, and whispered prayers to get me accepted into the revered Hallow Hall Institute—a place for the lost, the broken, the damned.
She told me I was lucky. Blessed.
Here, the doctors would mend my fractured mind, while the priests and nuns would save my soul.
They say I’m confused. That the angels and devils I see aren’t real.
Just fevered delusions.
But despite the holy men haunting the asylum’s halls, evil lurks in the shadows.
I feel it. I see it.
And then—he arrives.
He is handsome. Charming.
A wolf wrapped in devotion, with scripture on his lips and sin in his eyes.
Within days, he has them all under his spell.
But when he looks at me… I know.
The devil himself has come to Hallow Hall.
Massimo My life is built on blood and vengeance.
I kill for money. I live for retribution. Nothing else matters.
But the trail of my mother’s tortured past leads me here—to Hallow Hall.
A place of whispers and suffering, where faith is a mask and monsters wear crosses.
To get close to the men who need to die, I put on the robes of the righteous.
And then I see her.
The girl who speaks to angels and demons.
The girl who sees right through me.
She calls me a devil.
She’s right.
And I’m going to drag her into hell with me.
This is a forbidden, age-gap dark mafia romance intended only for adult audiences and contains darker themes which should be read with caution.
465 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 348 reviews
March 11, 2026
these two are the perfect mix of twisted but good at heart that makes you believe they are truly perfect for each other. there were some really good twists that i wasn’t expecting and i had no idea where the story was going to go.
massimo is a hitman assigned to kill the priest in charge of a holy institution, hallow hall. he goes undercover there as a priest and quickly realizes the place is super shady. katarina has been wrongly institutionalized and is stuck being drugged and experimented on with no end in sight.
women being drugged and used for sexual/medical experimentation under the guise of being spiritually cleansed is probably the darkest thing i’ve ever read. katarina doesn’t get the same treatment as the other women so it was much more palatable than i thought it would be but definitely look at the trigger warnings!
massimo!!! this single minded methodical assassin risks his entire operation to help katarina feel the smallest bit of relief from her mental and physical prison. i really liked everything about him and will definitely be going back to read other books in this series!
thank you netgalley for the arc!
massimo is a hitman assigned to kill the priest in charge of a holy institution, hallow hall. he goes undercover there as a priest and quickly realizes the place is super shady. katarina has been wrongly institutionalized and is stuck being drugged and experimented on with no end in sight.
women being drugged and used for sexual/medical experimentation under the guise of being spiritually cleansed is probably the darkest thing i’ve ever read. katarina doesn’t get the same treatment as the other women so it was much more palatable than i thought it would be but definitely look at the trigger warnings!
massimo!!! this single minded methodical assassin risks his entire operation to help katarina feel the smallest bit of relief from her mental and physical prison. i really liked everything about him and will definitely be going back to read other books in this series!
thank you netgalley for the arc!
September 16, 2026
5/5. ”How can a sin feel so, so good?”
“It’s no sin, Katarina. It’s a blessing. And you are no sinner. You’re an angel. My angel.”
TROPES:
-assassin hero pretending to be a priest
-mental health institution
-age gap 25h/34H
-mafia
-forbidden love
Katarina has been institutionalized for a few years now because she hears voices. She’s been tortured and mentally abused, but there’s nobody to save her. Until Massimo appears. He’s an assassin pretending to be a priest, working alongside her abusers. But from the second he sees her for the first time, he makes it his mission to protect her.
”If you’re going to fall apart, you’ll do it in my arms.”
“Why?”
“So I can catch all the pieces,” he murmured softly.
This book was a wild ride and I loved every second of it. A touch of bad boy, a sprinkle of forbidden love, and a SHOVEL of spice = a five star read. ❤️🔥
SAFETY/SPOILERS:
Virgin/celibate: virgin heroine, celibate hero
OM/OW: no OW. a few men are obsessed with heroine but the hero takes care of them 🤭
Cheating/sharing: none
Kinks: breeding, praise, hand necklace, dry humping, rough sex, somnophilia
Triggers: mental illness & mental trauma, human trafficking, religious trauma, drugging, sexual assault, forced marriage, kidnapping, abuse by authority figures/“priests”, mental health gaslighting, emotional manipulation.
HEA: yes!
“It’s no sin, Katarina. It’s a blessing. And you are no sinner. You’re an angel. My angel.”
TROPES:
-assassin hero pretending to be a priest
-mental health institution
-age gap 25h/34H
-mafia
-forbidden love
Katarina has been institutionalized for a few years now because she hears voices. She’s been tortured and mentally abused, but there’s nobody to save her. Until Massimo appears. He’s an assassin pretending to be a priest, working alongside her abusers. But from the second he sees her for the first time, he makes it his mission to protect her.
”If you’re going to fall apart, you’ll do it in my arms.”
“Why?”
“So I can catch all the pieces,” he murmured softly.
This book was a wild ride and I loved every second of it. A touch of bad boy, a sprinkle of forbidden love, and a SHOVEL of spice = a five star read. ❤️🔥
SAFETY/SPOILERS:
Virgin/celibate: virgin heroine, celibate hero
OM/OW: no OW. a few men are obsessed with heroine but the hero takes care of them 🤭
Cheating/sharing: none
Kinks: breeding, praise, hand necklace, dry humping, rough sex, somnophilia
Triggers: mental illness & mental trauma, human trafficking, religious trauma, drugging, sexual assault, forced marriage, kidnapping, abuse by authority figures/“priests”, mental health gaslighting, emotional manipulation.
HEA: yes!
April 24, 2026
I did NOT know what I would be gettng into with this one. As the premise had me hesitating for a moment. Not because I don't trust Mila Kane, but because this book contains one of my worst TWs. Forced Institutionalization. I really struggle with that, however, since ti was clear from the blurb and then the prologue how it was happening, I felt like this could be a really interesting ride.
And boy was it!
I was sucked in immediately by the hopelessness of Kat's situation. I felt so badly for her and I didn'tknow how she could escape from the dreaded situation she begns this book in. But along comes Massimo, infiltrating the mental hospital and going undercover as a man of the cloth. Because there is something sketchy and dangerous about this place. He may not be a savior in hisown mind, but he sweeps in, in the knick of time to change things up for Kat.
When she is privy to something she shouldn't be, Massimo knows what he SHOULD do. Eliminate the threat. He should NOT be falling for this beautiful liability, nor should he make a deal wth her to kill her enemies in exchange for uncovering her passions, one by one. But he can't help himself. She's worth risking it all for.
I really enjoyed this entry to the series. I feel like it was extremely gory and dark. I know there are TWs, but it just wasn't all to my taste. I can't hep that, but I did enjoy a lot of it. Just make sure to read the TWs and enter with caution.
4 Stars
3.5 on the spice scale
CW: Child abuse, forced institutionalization, drugs used unethically on patients, sexual abuse, gas-lighting, death of a parent, and more!
*Thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC through Netgalley.*
And boy was it!
I was sucked in immediately by the hopelessness of Kat's situation. I felt so badly for her and I didn'tknow how she could escape from the dreaded situation she begns this book in. But along comes Massimo, infiltrating the mental hospital and going undercover as a man of the cloth. Because there is something sketchy and dangerous about this place. He may not be a savior in hisown mind, but he sweeps in, in the knick of time to change things up for Kat.
When she is privy to something she shouldn't be, Massimo knows what he SHOULD do. Eliminate the threat. He should NOT be falling for this beautiful liability, nor should he make a deal wth her to kill her enemies in exchange for uncovering her passions, one by one. But he can't help himself. She's worth risking it all for.
I really enjoyed this entry to the series. I feel like it was extremely gory and dark. I know there are TWs, but it just wasn't all to my taste. I can't hep that, but I did enjoy a lot of it. Just make sure to read the TWs and enter with caution.
4 Stars
3.5 on the spice scale
CW: Child abuse, forced institutionalization, drugs used unethically on patients, sexual abuse, gas-lighting, death of a parent, and more!
*Thank you to the author and publisher for an ARC through Netgalley.*
June 30, 2026
Massimo is an assassin and goes undercover as a priest in some kind of fucked up religious institution/asylum to kill one of the leaders, here he meets Katarina who hears voices and has been locked up here against her will for over 3 years.
Most of the going’s on at Hallows Hall were dark as fuck! Massimo risks exposing himself after the hit is complete to stay there and help Katarina and eventually get her out. Takes til like 60% until they leave the place, I was so fuckin stressed while they were there! Kat kept getting drugged against her will and I was just like how much more can this woman take before her mind/body is beyond help!
Anyway they get out, they get separated for a little bit because of a fire and who does she bump into and receive help from?? Fucking Lucy the asshole, ungrateful bitch sister of Charlie from book 1. Just fyi I STILL HATE YOU LUCY!! She’s so nice now apparently, helps Kat because her sister taught her to always help someone in need. No fuck you Lucy, no redemption for you ever in my eyes, you made book 1 unbearable!!
So when they leave Hallow Hall, there’s memory loss, kidnapping, more drugging, he saves her, forced marriage, memory recovery, more kidnapping, she’s pissed at Massimo for making decisions and controlling her, he ‘grovels’ (not really, she wanted the freedom to make her own choices and he said ok go do what you want and she was like wow thanks for the choice so I’m choosing you and staying now)
They take down the main bad guy who owns Hallow Hall and many other places like it, there was a 6 year old girl at hallow hall with her who turns out is her sister so they keep her with them too. And then HEA
Do you know what I thought was fucking wild though, when they started sleeping together they never used birth control. Fmc said it was ok because she hadn’t had a period in years but the mmc had a few thoughts of her pregnant and he liked the sound of it, she’d be more tied to him etc. and I couldn’t help but think are they fucking insane?? She’s been malnourished, physically and mentally abused and drugged up to the fucking eyeballs with dangerous, unnecessary medications and even experimental drugs for 3 years!! If she got pregnant right now there’d be a good chance her baby would be severely deformed or something! So keep your breeding kink to yourself for a while Massimo please!!
-Dual PoV
-Small age gap, h25 H34
-dark subject matter- check triggers
-Virgin fmc, mmc not a manwhore at all, he hadn’t been with anyone in years.
-no OWD, omd was someone called Ivan was behind Kat being sent to Hallow Hall when she refused to marry him, be gets taken care of by the mmc. Mmc also prevents the other creepy priest and doctor from being alone with Kat as much as possible once he meets her.
-HEA
-epilogue is a short time later, they’re going round getting the other institutions investigated and closed down
Most of the going’s on at Hallows Hall were dark as fuck! Massimo risks exposing himself after the hit is complete to stay there and help Katarina and eventually get her out. Takes til like 60% until they leave the place, I was so fuckin stressed while they were there! Kat kept getting drugged against her will and I was just like how much more can this woman take before her mind/body is beyond help!
Anyway they get out, they get separated for a little bit because of a fire and who does she bump into and receive help from?? Fucking Lucy the asshole, ungrateful bitch sister of Charlie from book 1. Just fyi I STILL HATE YOU LUCY!! She’s so nice now apparently, helps Kat because her sister taught her to always help someone in need. No fuck you Lucy, no redemption for you ever in my eyes, you made book 1 unbearable!!
So when they leave Hallow Hall, there’s memory loss, kidnapping, more drugging, he saves her, forced marriage, memory recovery, more kidnapping, she’s pissed at Massimo for making decisions and controlling her, he ‘grovels’ (not really, she wanted the freedom to make her own choices and he said ok go do what you want and she was like wow thanks for the choice so I’m choosing you and staying now)
They take down the main bad guy who owns Hallow Hall and many other places like it, there was a 6 year old girl at hallow hall with her who turns out is her sister so they keep her with them too. And then HEA
Do you know what I thought was fucking wild though, when they started sleeping together they never used birth control. Fmc said it was ok because she hadn’t had a period in years but the mmc had a few thoughts of her pregnant and he liked the sound of it, she’d be more tied to him etc. and I couldn’t help but think are they fucking insane?? She’s been malnourished, physically and mentally abused and drugged up to the fucking eyeballs with dangerous, unnecessary medications and even experimental drugs for 3 years!! If she got pregnant right now there’d be a good chance her baby would be severely deformed or something! So keep your breeding kink to yourself for a while Massimo please!!
-Dual PoV
-Small age gap, h25 H34
-dark subject matter- check triggers
-Virgin fmc, mmc not a manwhore at all, he hadn’t been with anyone in years.
-no OWD, omd was someone called Ivan was behind Kat being sent to Hallow Hall when she refused to marry him, be gets taken care of by the mmc. Mmc also prevents the other creepy priest and doctor from being alone with Kat as much as possible once he meets her.
-HEA
-epilogue is a short time later, they’re going round getting the other institutions investigated and closed down
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to Read
August 30, 2025massimo I need u like yesterday
——————————————————
Massimo. L’Ombra. The shadow.
A black hole of shadow & violence.
“He’d always been able to laugh in the face of death; murder and mayhem didn’t faze him. In fact, it was quite the opposite.”
“He’d always had that psychopathic edge. A man who thrived on chaos and darkness. I’d felt it even then, when he’d been an up-and-coming recruit and I’d been his first commander.”
(Descriptions from Brutal Legacy)
——————————————————
Massimo. L’Ombra. The shadow.
A black hole of shadow & violence.
“He’d always been able to laugh in the face of death; murder and mayhem didn’t faze him. In fact, it was quite the opposite.”
“He’d always had that psychopathic edge. A man who thrived on chaos and darkness. I’d felt it even then, when he’d been an up-and-coming recruit and I’d been his first commander.”
(Descriptions from Brutal Legacy)
May 31, 2026
Primero, se logró poder terminarlo antes de hoy al medio día, y eso que estuve ocupada.
Segundo, me gustó y eso que no le tenía fe pero los hombres de esta autora son muy devotos, y aunque no se den cuenta que están enamorados, ya están dispuestos a morir por ellas. Todo este tema de ese hospital/iglesia/manicomio/sanatorio estuvo interesante pero la FMC me estaba desesperando porque estaba siendo muy tonta incluso cuando ya recordaba las cosas.
Ojalá encontrarse con uno así, y que tenga toda esa plata y me compre lo que quiera. 😂
Segundo, me gustó y eso que no le tenía fe pero los hombres de esta autora son muy devotos, y aunque no se den cuenta que están enamorados, ya están dispuestos a morir por ellas. Todo este tema de ese hospital/iglesia/manicomio/sanatorio estuvo interesante pero la FMC me estaba desesperando porque estaba siendo muy tonta incluso cuando ya recordaba las cosas.
Ojalá encontrarse con uno así, y que tenga toda esa plata y me compre lo que quiera. 😂
Did Not Finish
April 25, 2026Why did I think this was a student/professor relationship… I’ll never know. It wasn’t what I was expecting so it’s on me.
July 12, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really enjoy a good mafia series, and so far, this has been one of the better ones I've read lately. 🖤 Massimo was such an intriguing character in Brutal Legacy, so I was thrilled he got his own book... and thankfully, it did not disappoint.
Before diving in, definitely check the trigger warnings. ⚠️ This one is darker than the previous books in the series and tackles some seriously disturbing subject matter.
Katarina has never really had anyone looking out for her besides her mother. When she refuses a marriage proposal from her uncle—and even her mother is manipulated into believing the lies—Kat ends up imprisoned in an institution called Hallow Hall. 😬 Things go from awful to absolutely horrific after she witnesses something she was never supposed to see. For reasons she doesn't understand, they don't kill her... but they have no intention of ever letting her leave, either. Instead, she's heavily drugged and subjected to bizarre, twisted "therapies." 😳
Then Massimo walks in... disguised as a priest. ⛪🖤 He's there for one reason only: complete his mission, eliminate his targets, and leave. Simple. Except it stops being just another job the moment he meets Kat. What starts as business quickly becomes personal, and for a man like Massimo, that's a dangerous shift. 🔥
I'm keeping the rest to myself because this is one of those books that's best experienced without spoilers. This book had me hooked from beginning to end, and I flew through it. If you're a fan of dark mafia romance with plenty of suspense, danger, and a MMC who's more than willing to leave a trail of bodies to save his woman... this one is absolutely worth picking up. 📚🖤
I really enjoy a good mafia series, and so far, this has been one of the better ones I've read lately. 🖤 Massimo was such an intriguing character in Brutal Legacy, so I was thrilled he got his own book... and thankfully, it did not disappoint.
Before diving in, definitely check the trigger warnings. ⚠️ This one is darker than the previous books in the series and tackles some seriously disturbing subject matter.
Katarina has never really had anyone looking out for her besides her mother. When she refuses a marriage proposal from her uncle—and even her mother is manipulated into believing the lies—Kat ends up imprisoned in an institution called Hallow Hall. 😬 Things go from awful to absolutely horrific after she witnesses something she was never supposed to see. For reasons she doesn't understand, they don't kill her... but they have no intention of ever letting her leave, either. Instead, she's heavily drugged and subjected to bizarre, twisted "therapies." 😳
Then Massimo walks in... disguised as a priest. ⛪🖤 He's there for one reason only: complete his mission, eliminate his targets, and leave. Simple. Except it stops being just another job the moment he meets Kat. What starts as business quickly becomes personal, and for a man like Massimo, that's a dangerous shift. 🔥
I'm keeping the rest to myself because this is one of those books that's best experienced without spoilers. This book had me hooked from beginning to end, and I flew through it. If you're a fan of dark mafia romance with plenty of suspense, danger, and a MMC who's more than willing to leave a trail of bodies to save his woman... this one is absolutely worth picking up. 📚🖤
April 23, 2026
As soon as I started, I knew this one was going to be good… and dark. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to take a day off just to read it in one sitting.
Mila Kane does an amazing job of pulling you straight into the story. Even though it’s a mafia romance, it felt really different from the usual “arranged marriage” or “enemies-to-lovers” tropes.
✅Asylum / fake priest
✅100% safe (no manwhore MMC)
✅Virgin heroine
✅Amnesia
✅ banter
✅twists and turns
✅Kidnapping by the villain
✅Human trafficking
But I didn’t like:
The “meet cute”… Massimo peeing outside didn’t exactly scream “badass” more like douchebag.
Kat having an existential crisis and running away from Massimo was frustrating.
Kat cried a bit too often for my liking.
I want the next book!!!
Mila Kane does an amazing job of pulling you straight into the story. Even though it’s a mafia romance, it felt really different from the usual “arranged marriage” or “enemies-to-lovers” tropes.
✅Asylum / fake priest
✅100% safe (no manwhore MMC)
✅Virgin heroine
✅Amnesia
✅ banter
✅twists and turns
✅Kidnapping by the villain
✅Human trafficking
But I didn’t like:
The “meet cute”… Massimo peeing outside didn’t exactly scream “badass” more like douchebag.
Kat having an existential crisis and running away from Massimo was frustrating.
Kat cried a bit too often for my liking.
I want the next book!!!
April 29, 2026
Ugh. This was not to my liking.
August 2, 2026
EXCUSE ME?!?!?! What in the morally bankrupt masterpiece did I just inhale?! 🤯🔪
Mafia romance is one thing… but having your own PERSONAL ASSASSIN whose entire personality is “point me in the direction of whoever upset my woman”????? OH. OH THIS CHANGED MY BRAIN CHEMISTRY. 😮💨 that’s a whole new love language. 🤌🏼🔪
Mass was an absolute menace to society, the devil in human form to literally everyone else… but for Kats? That woman was his religion. His salvation. His favorite obsession. The “breathe in her direction wrong and I’m decorating the pavement with your existence” level of love had me giggling, kicking my feet, and questioning every life decision that led me to living a normal civilian existence. 😭
The twists?? INSANE. The betrayal?? FOUL. The obsession?? DELICIOUS. The devotion?? UNHINGED. I didn’t read this book… I CONSUMED it. It grabbed me by the throat and said, “You’re not sleeping until you finish,” and apparently I said, “Yes, sir.” 🤷🏽♀️
At this point, I’d like to file my 937th formal complaint with the universe because why am I paying taxes when I should be the emotionally supported, dangerously overprotected wife of a mafia boss with a psychotic assassin who thinks solving my problems with murder is a reasonable form of customer service? Where do I sign? I have questions… but not enough to say no. 🚩🥀🔪😂
Mafia romance is one thing… but having your own PERSONAL ASSASSIN whose entire personality is “point me in the direction of whoever upset my woman”????? OH. OH THIS CHANGED MY BRAIN CHEMISTRY. 😮💨 that’s a whole new love language. 🤌🏼🔪
Mass was an absolute menace to society, the devil in human form to literally everyone else… but for Kats? That woman was his religion. His salvation. His favorite obsession. The “breathe in her direction wrong and I’m decorating the pavement with your existence” level of love had me giggling, kicking my feet, and questioning every life decision that led me to living a normal civilian existence. 😭
The twists?? INSANE. The betrayal?? FOUL. The obsession?? DELICIOUS. The devotion?? UNHINGED. I didn’t read this book… I CONSUMED it. It grabbed me by the throat and said, “You’re not sleeping until you finish,” and apparently I said, “Yes, sir.” 🤷🏽♀️
At this point, I’d like to file my 937th formal complaint with the universe because why am I paying taxes when I should be the emotionally supported, dangerously overprotected wife of a mafia boss with a psychotic assassin who thinks solving my problems with murder is a reasonable form of customer service? Where do I sign? I have questions… but not enough to say no. 🚩🥀🔪😂
August 20, 2026
This book was dark, delicious, and DIRTY.... in the best way, of course! It is one of those books where I knew I was in for a ride, but somehow it still managed to surprise me. And let me just say, check that trigger menu friends! There is A LOT on it, and this book is definitely dirty, but in the absolute best way. And even though this is book 3 in the series you can absolutely read it as a standalone. Nothing felt confusing or like I was missing some giant piece of the puzzle, which I always appreciate when jumping into a series.
I really loved how the story was introduced, but the real story began when the devil himself set his eyes on Katarina. And no, I’m not talking about paranormal entities. Massimo simply has that dark, devilish personality that makes you want to immediately add him to your book boyfriend list. And the chemistry between Massimo and Katarina? FIRE. But honestly, what really gave this story that extra something was the trauma both characters had endured and overcome. Seeing those pieces of their past shape them and watching them work through it, was the icing on the cake. And that ending? Pleased. Satisfied. No complaints here!
Overall, this was a four-star read for me, and I’m definitely curious to see what Mila Kane comes up with next.
Rated: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I received a free advanced copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really loved how the story was introduced, but the real story began when the devil himself set his eyes on Katarina. And no, I’m not talking about paranormal entities. Massimo simply has that dark, devilish personality that makes you want to immediately add him to your book boyfriend list. And the chemistry between Massimo and Katarina? FIRE. But honestly, what really gave this story that extra something was the trauma both characters had endured and overcome. Seeing those pieces of their past shape them and watching them work through it, was the icing on the cake. And that ending? Pleased. Satisfied. No complaints here!
Overall, this was a four-star read for me, and I’m definitely curious to see what Mila Kane comes up with next.
Rated: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
* I received a free advanced copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 26, 2026
3.5 Stars
Read if you Like:
-asylum setting
-forbidden romance
-banter
-mafia romance
-age gap
-obsessive and possessive MMC
-forced proximity
-dual POV
-open door spice
-mental health rep
This was a wild ride from start to finish. There were so many disturbing things happening at Hallow Hall. Just when I thought the audience knew how awful their infractions were, we saw an even darker side. I was hooked from the beginning and enjoyed the read very much.
The author’s writing style threw me off a bit at first, but I eventually got accustomed to it. There was a lot of weird spacing. I have never read anything from Mila Kane before, so I wrote myself a note for future reference so that I won’t be so thrown next time. I will definitely be reading more from this author. I loved this one.
Massimo quickly becomes obsessed with Katarina after meeting her in an asylum where he was assigned to assassinate someone. He saw her need for help and took it upon himself to rescue and avenge her. Once he decided she was his, he wasn’t letting her go. My toxic trait is loving MMCs like this. They are all red flags, but, Your Honor, I love them.
This book is available on KU. I hope you will read this and love it too.
Favorite Quotes:
“You saw me, and I saw you, angel. I know what you are, just like you know what I am.”
“You’re not lost anymore. You will never be lost again, and you’re not alone anymore. From now on, it’s you and me. I will never leave you alone in the dark again.”
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bookkat1214
TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookkat1214
***Check your TWs***
Read if you Like:
-asylum setting
-forbidden romance
-banter
-mafia romance
-age gap
-obsessive and possessive MMC
-forced proximity
-dual POV
-open door spice
-mental health rep
This was a wild ride from start to finish. There were so many disturbing things happening at Hallow Hall. Just when I thought the audience knew how awful their infractions were, we saw an even darker side. I was hooked from the beginning and enjoyed the read very much.
The author’s writing style threw me off a bit at first, but I eventually got accustomed to it. There was a lot of weird spacing. I have never read anything from Mila Kane before, so I wrote myself a note for future reference so that I won’t be so thrown next time. I will definitely be reading more from this author. I loved this one.
Massimo quickly becomes obsessed with Katarina after meeting her in an asylum where he was assigned to assassinate someone. He saw her need for help and took it upon himself to rescue and avenge her. Once he decided she was his, he wasn’t letting her go. My toxic trait is loving MMCs like this. They are all red flags, but, Your Honor, I love them.
This book is available on KU. I hope you will read this and love it too.
Favorite Quotes:
“You saw me, and I saw you, angel. I know what you are, just like you know what I am.”
“You’re not lost anymore. You will never be lost again, and you’re not alone anymore. From now on, it’s you and me. I will never leave you alone in the dark again.”
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bookkat1214
TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@bookkat1214
***Check your TWs***
June 16, 2026
Okayyy
I did like this book! They were cute and the way he instantly knew she was special was heart warming. Suprisingly, the plot of Katarina being in a place like Hallow Hall was good and kept me on my toes the whole book. There were other subplots related like Massimo’s mom and Tatiana. I also thought those were good and they all were interconnected. It was good, but not the BEST dark romance/mafia subplot. There wasn’t much mafia in this, Massimo is an assassin. The subplot was more mafia. Anyhow, I enjoyed this book!
I did like this book! They were cute and the way he instantly knew she was special was heart warming. Suprisingly, the plot of Katarina being in a place like Hallow Hall was good and kept me on my toes the whole book. There were other subplots related like Massimo’s mom and Tatiana. I also thought those were good and they all were interconnected. It was good, but not the BEST dark romance/mafia subplot. There wasn’t much mafia in this, Massimo is an assassin. The subplot was more mafia. Anyhow, I enjoyed this book!
April 27, 2026
3🌶
This book is dark and heavy, so please check the trigger warnings. The things this FMC goes through are so heartbreaking (not from MMC). You will go through all the feels with this book.
So good! Honestly, I love Mila Kane's writing.
This book is dark and heavy, so please check the trigger warnings. The things this FMC goes through are so heartbreaking (not from MMC). You will go through all the feels with this book.
So good! Honestly, I love Mila Kane's writing.
April 25, 2026
I enjoyed this series a lot.
I really liked this book, though I’m not the biggest fan of characters playing/disguised as priests.
I really liked this book, though I’m not the biggest fan of characters playing/disguised as priests.
June 30, 2026
plot was interesting enough but wrapped up really weirdly imo
May 31, 2026
Another amazing book by Mila Kane. Can't get enough of her books!
August 20, 2026
This was a good read! Got me out of my slump and I was rooting for the main characters! Sometimes the morally grey mmc can piss me off with their decision making skills but I really enjoyed the story from beginning to end.
May 11, 2026
psych ward, priests, and obsession
****May Contain Spoilers***
This book was honestly a really nice switch up from the usual mafia arranged marriage stories. Like within the first 3% I already knew this was about to be a mess in the best way because what do you mean you got thrown into a mental hospital for refusing to marry a man after ONE date🤨?? 😭 And Icing on the cake your own mother helped make it happen by telling the priest about the voices you hear. Absolutely insane behavior.
The only way out was agreeing to marry the prick SOB. ABSOLUTELY NOT 😔 So instead you stay and get unwillingly drugged and experimented on in hopes of finally being free.
And while she’s there, the stuff happening in that place?? Horrific!!! Especially coming from people who are supposed to be “holy.” Then here comes this assassin posing as a priest and suddenly everything starts spiraling in a completely different direction. Events put them in compromising positions and she agrees to a blood pact for all her “firsts” in exchange for him delivering justice 🔪😏
Little did she know… he meant ALL her firsts. First kiss. First love. First husband. First baby. First everything and honestly it felt like he would’ve kept finding new firsts just so he could keep her forever 🥰 He may be the devil😈, but he’s HER devil now.
There was definitely smut 🤭 because well it’s mafia duh 😆 but I actually really liked the plot too. It had this dark secret society/cult vibe underneath everything that kept me interested the whole time. I just wish we got a little more of that aspect because I have QUESTIONS. Like where was Massimo’s sibling? Is his mother really gone? What happened to the baby her best friend had stolen from her?? They alluded to taken more people down what’s going on with that? I need answers 😂
I’d also love to know more about Lucy, but maybe that’s another book. Overall I thought this was a good read.
****May Contain Spoilers***
This book was honestly a really nice switch up from the usual mafia arranged marriage stories. Like within the first 3% I already knew this was about to be a mess in the best way because what do you mean you got thrown into a mental hospital for refusing to marry a man after ONE date🤨?? 😭 And Icing on the cake your own mother helped make it happen by telling the priest about the voices you hear. Absolutely insane behavior.
The only way out was agreeing to marry the prick SOB. ABSOLUTELY NOT 😔 So instead you stay and get unwillingly drugged and experimented on in hopes of finally being free.
And while she’s there, the stuff happening in that place?? Horrific!!! Especially coming from people who are supposed to be “holy.” Then here comes this assassin posing as a priest and suddenly everything starts spiraling in a completely different direction. Events put them in compromising positions and she agrees to a blood pact for all her “firsts” in exchange for him delivering justice 🔪😏
Little did she know… he meant ALL her firsts. First kiss. First love. First husband. First baby. First everything and honestly it felt like he would’ve kept finding new firsts just so he could keep her forever 🥰 He may be the devil😈, but he’s HER devil now.
There was definitely smut 🤭 because well it’s mafia duh 😆 but I actually really liked the plot too. It had this dark secret society/cult vibe underneath everything that kept me interested the whole time. I just wish we got a little more of that aspect because I have QUESTIONS. Like where was Massimo’s sibling? Is his mother really gone? What happened to the baby her best friend had stolen from her?? They alluded to taken more people down what’s going on with that? I need answers 😂
I’d also love to know more about Lucy, but maybe that’s another book. Overall I thought this was a good read.
May 11, 2026
4.8 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed this book very much. I was able to read the first two books before I jump into the third one even though they are a standalone is very good to get to know the other characters before you jump into the mafia romance in this book really liked that a lot. I wish the audiobook was a little better but other than that was amazing story and I love the plot line.
I enjoyed this book very much. I was able to read the first two books before I jump into the third one even though they are a standalone is very good to get to know the other characters before you jump into the mafia romance in this book really liked that a lot. I wish the audiobook was a little better but other than that was amazing story and I love the plot line.
May 18, 2026
3.5⭐️
The way that Kane has crossover for all of her series is so fun. This was definitely a ride. I personally think that Massimo should have had to grovel more after the wedding stunt.
The way that Kane has crossover for all of her series is so fun. This was definitely a ride. I personally think that Massimo should have had to grovel more after the wedding stunt.
August 28, 2026
Interesting reading.
April 23, 2026
the plot was good but
The ending was so rushed… maybe this book would have been better as a duet. The idea of the book is AMAZING and up until the fire it was SOOOO good but then it went downhill from there.
The ending was so rushed… maybe this book would have been better as a duet. The idea of the book is AMAZING and up until the fire it was SOOOO good but then it went downhill from there.
April 2, 2026
Ended the series on a low note. Maybe it was me, probably was now that I think about it. Oh well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My Rating: 4.5 stars!
**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**
Why is it that the Original Sin series keep pulling me in deeper and deeper into its ominous world?! Oh, that’s right… It’s because it’s so deviously elusive and just as equally addictive!
I didn’t think I could love a couple and their story more than Elio’s and Georgia’s in Brutal Legacy (book two), but after reading this latest addition to the series, I think Massimo and Katarina might’ve just nudged Elio and Georgia a smidge for top spot.
If the premise doesn’t perk you with interest, the story itself will have you immediately enamoured with the shady backdrop you’ve entered into, and the MCs who are smack dab in the middle of it.
A devil in disguise ready to wreak havoc, a broken angel in confinement, and a whole ton of wrongdoings left, right, and centre. I was invested from start to finish! The tension, the intrigue, the fiery chemistry, and all the uncertainty swirling throughout the entire story made for a more heightened and unputdownable reading experience.
It’s a steadily paced storyline that’s constantly developing, so I was always on the edge of my seat. The second Massimo and Katarina set eyes on one another it was like a giddy-inducing bomb detonated and sparks were flying. I knew I was in for a spicy treat from there on out.
Massimo was a minor character introduced in Brutal Legacy who I undoubtedly wanted to see again. When I discovered the next book in the series was his story, I just about squeaked with excitement. Getting to learn his tragic backstory and how he lived a mostly solitary life made me adore him more. He’s a complex character who has had a hard and violent life, but yet still possessed protective instincts and strong morals.
I sympathised Katarina so hard whilst reading this book. I hadn’t felt such anxiety for a fictional character and what they were going through in a while, and I hadn’t expected to be emotionally and mentally invested in seeing how and when she’d escape such a hellish nightmare. She’s the type of FMC I favour in my dark romance books—fragile yet determined. She’s a “damsel in distress” who strives to save herself, no matter how many times she hits a roadblock. She’s easily a character many could connect with.
This book navigates through dark themes and contains sensitive subject matters that some readers may find difficult or triggering to read. It’s not for the faint of heart. Proceed with caution as it broaches on topics such as, kidnapping and imprisonment, involuntary medication/sedation, gaslighting, human trafficking, certain forms of SA veiled as therapy sessions, familial abandonment, self-harm, as well as graphic violence and death. The characters experience trauma and PTSD. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.
I’ve read a handful of Kane’s books, and whether it be contemporary, sports romance or dark mafia, her writing is always so, so gripping and effortless to follow. The world-building is vivid, intricate, and just exceptional. I love the found-family aspect and the MCs finding the right people who become their support system.
Although Sacred Ruin is not as heavily set in the mafia world as the first two in the series, it is still just as gritty and just as dark. It has a nice flow to it, the plot was plotting, and executed nicely through its storytelling. Massimo and Katarina are quite driven characters and their emotions prompt a lot of the developments. Their entire interaction is what captivated my attention, but there’s also no denying their story and certain matters that were highlighted were thought-provoking, somewhat skin-crawlingly creepy, and all-out dramatic.
It’s told from dual POVs and I was hooked by their contrasting perspectives. They have similar thoughts and opinions, but coming from very distinct, opposing sides. They’re light and shade who gradually seep into each other.
If you’re looking for a dark, mafia-ish read with a forbidden, age-gap romance trope, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR. Whilst you can easily read this as a standalone and although not necessary, I would still suggest to at least read Brutal Legacy first, if not starting from the beginning of the series. It introduces Massimo, his expertise, and exhibits his connection to previous MCs.
Putting the romantic element aside, for fellow readers whose eyes glint at the sight of karmic justice, you can look forward to plenty of action, suspense, and sweet vengeance. It had me lifting a proverbial fist pump in happy contentment.
It’s depraved. It’s twisted. At times it’s even flush-inducingly hot! It’s a total emotional rollercoaster that’ll have you going from one side of the emotional spectrum to the complete opposite the next.
If I was ever on the fence about Kane’s writing, I’m not anymore. She’s cemented herself as an auto-read author for me. This series has fast become one of my favourite dark mafia worlds, and this book is an amazing addition that I can see myself reading again whenever the mood calls for it. It’s book-hangover worthy!
🚨 Full review in my blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...
**ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review.**
Why is it that the Original Sin series keep pulling me in deeper and deeper into its ominous world?! Oh, that’s right… It’s because it’s so deviously elusive and just as equally addictive!
I didn’t think I could love a couple and their story more than Elio’s and Georgia’s in Brutal Legacy (book two), but after reading this latest addition to the series, I think Massimo and Katarina might’ve just nudged Elio and Georgia a smidge for top spot.
If the premise doesn’t perk you with interest, the story itself will have you immediately enamoured with the shady backdrop you’ve entered into, and the MCs who are smack dab in the middle of it.
A devil in disguise ready to wreak havoc, a broken angel in confinement, and a whole ton of wrongdoings left, right, and centre. I was invested from start to finish! The tension, the intrigue, the fiery chemistry, and all the uncertainty swirling throughout the entire story made for a more heightened and unputdownable reading experience.
It’s a steadily paced storyline that’s constantly developing, so I was always on the edge of my seat. The second Massimo and Katarina set eyes on one another it was like a giddy-inducing bomb detonated and sparks were flying. I knew I was in for a spicy treat from there on out.
Massimo was a minor character introduced in Brutal Legacy who I undoubtedly wanted to see again. When I discovered the next book in the series was his story, I just about squeaked with excitement. Getting to learn his tragic backstory and how he lived a mostly solitary life made me adore him more. He’s a complex character who has had a hard and violent life, but yet still possessed protective instincts and strong morals.
I sympathised Katarina so hard whilst reading this book. I hadn’t felt such anxiety for a fictional character and what they were going through in a while, and I hadn’t expected to be emotionally and mentally invested in seeing how and when she’d escape such a hellish nightmare. She’s the type of FMC I favour in my dark romance books—fragile yet determined. She’s a “damsel in distress” who strives to save herself, no matter how many times she hits a roadblock. She’s easily a character many could connect with.
This book navigates through dark themes and contains sensitive subject matters that some readers may find difficult or triggering to read. It’s not for the faint of heart. Proceed with caution as it broaches on topics such as, kidnapping and imprisonment, involuntary medication/sedation, gaslighting, human trafficking, certain forms of SA veiled as therapy sessions, familial abandonment, self-harm, as well as graphic violence and death. The characters experience trauma and PTSD. It’s intended for readers 18+ only.
I’ve read a handful of Kane’s books, and whether it be contemporary, sports romance or dark mafia, her writing is always so, so gripping and effortless to follow. The world-building is vivid, intricate, and just exceptional. I love the found-family aspect and the MCs finding the right people who become their support system.
Although Sacred Ruin is not as heavily set in the mafia world as the first two in the series, it is still just as gritty and just as dark. It has a nice flow to it, the plot was plotting, and executed nicely through its storytelling. Massimo and Katarina are quite driven characters and their emotions prompt a lot of the developments. Their entire interaction is what captivated my attention, but there’s also no denying their story and certain matters that were highlighted were thought-provoking, somewhat skin-crawlingly creepy, and all-out dramatic.
It’s told from dual POVs and I was hooked by their contrasting perspectives. They have similar thoughts and opinions, but coming from very distinct, opposing sides. They’re light and shade who gradually seep into each other.
If you’re looking for a dark, mafia-ish read with a forbidden, age-gap romance trope, I highly recommend adding this one to your TBR. Whilst you can easily read this as a standalone and although not necessary, I would still suggest to at least read Brutal Legacy first, if not starting from the beginning of the series. It introduces Massimo, his expertise, and exhibits his connection to previous MCs.
Putting the romantic element aside, for fellow readers whose eyes glint at the sight of karmic justice, you can look forward to plenty of action, suspense, and sweet vengeance. It had me lifting a proverbial fist pump in happy contentment.
It’s depraved. It’s twisted. At times it’s even flush-inducingly hot! It’s a total emotional rollercoaster that’ll have you going from one side of the emotional spectrum to the complete opposite the next.
If I was ever on the fence about Kane’s writing, I’m not anymore. She’s cemented herself as an auto-read author for me. This series has fast become one of my favourite dark mafia worlds, and this book is an amazing addition that I can see myself reading again whenever the mood calls for it. It’s book-hangover worthy!
🚨 Full review in my blog: https://booksofthemuggleborn.wordpres...
May 25, 2026
Title: Sacred Ruin
Author: Mila Kane
Genre/Subgenres:
• Dark Mafia Romance
• Forbidden Romance
• Psychological Suspense
⭐My Rating: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice: 4/5
Tropes:
• Forbidden Age Gap
• Priest x Patient
• Kidnapping
• Amnesia
• Virgin heroine FMC
• Villainous Hero MMC
• Twists & Turns
• Lots of Banter
Content Warning: This book explores heavy themes including forced institutionalization, violence, captivity, trauma, manipulation, obsession, and other dark romance elements. Check trigger warnings before reading.
My Thoughts:
Mila Kane said, what if trauma, obsession, religion, and dark mafia chaos collided inside a psychiatric institution? …and then somehow made it heartbreakingly romantic.
Sacred Ruin is the final installment in the Original Sin series and follows Katarina, a woman trapped inside Hallow Hall after experiencing disturbing visions, where reality feels unreliable and danger hides behind holy robes and smiling faces. Into that nightmare walks Massimo, who is a former special forces now turned hitman whose presence feels less like salvation and more like temptation itself.
I would say that this book leans heavily into forbidden attraction, obsessive devotion, morally gray characters, and psychological darkness. The atmosphere felt claustrophobic and deeply unsettling but to me it was a compelling way to set the tone of the book and really hook the reader into the storyline. I spent much of the story questioning who was manipulating whom, what was really happening behind the scenes and whether anyone (including the MMC) involved was capable of redemption.
Massimo is not a “good guy.” He’s possessive, violent, and terrifying at times. Yet Mila Kane somehow creates moments of vulnerability beneath all the brutality. It is also why I enjoyed the book so much as the villainous hero trope is one of my absolute favorite and a difficult male character type to write that needs to appeal to the female reader without coming off misogynistic or just leaving the reader hating the male main character. I would say that if your favorite trope is “he would burn the world down for her” followed by “but he is violent, possessive and does what he wants when he wants trope”, prepare yourself, you will love this book.
What astonished me the most was the emotional weight underneath the spice and darkness. Katarina’s struggle with agency (she has no autonomy), trust (she has been burned by even those who love her), and survival (she is badass) gave the romance & overall story a deeper higher stake than simple superficiality that some dark romance can have. This story had actual real-world darkness that didn’t close door, sugarcoat the darkness, but it is harder to read, so if you are don’t want to read what happens, what has happened in relation to how women have been historically treated than perhaps skip this book.
What Worked For me:
• Religious gothic, eerie setting
• Obsessive antihero villain energy
• Intense chemistry b/w FMC x MMC and high delicious spice
• Psychological tension throughout kept me hooked
• Emotional vulnerability hidden under violence and devotion
What didn’t work for:
• Uneven pacing in some sections
• Emotional moments occasionally needed more depth & grounding
• Hard to connect to character motivations at times
• Relationship dynamics felt too dark at times (overall it works for a dark romance)
• Heavy themes occasionally became emotionally exhausting rather than immersive for me
Things to Consider:
• Very dark romance and absolutely not for everyone (check those warnings people!)
• Heavy themes, violence, abuse against women, etc
• The morally gray behavior stays morally gray, please do not expect healthy communication here
If you enjoy authors like Rina Kent, Sadie Kincaid, or dark mafia romances where obsession borders on worship, Sacred Ruin may be worth adding to your TBR.
Readers comfortable with disturbing themes and possessive antiheroes will devour this one, I certainly did!
The story blends psychological unease with brutal devotion and wraps it in Mila Kane’s signature dark romance style.
Would I recommend it?
For dark romance lovers: Yes
For readers wanting morally black antiheroes: Yes
For readers avoiding trauma-heavy content: Probably not
Story Rating: 4/5
Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Neurospicy Rating: Rent Free, likely forever (I will be reading the other 2 in this series)
My Overall Rating: 4.5/5⭐
Author: Mila Kane
Genre/Subgenres:
• Dark Mafia Romance
• Forbidden Romance
• Psychological Suspense
⭐My Rating: 4.5/5
🌶️ Spice: 4/5
Tropes:
• Forbidden Age Gap
• Priest x Patient
• Kidnapping
• Amnesia
• Virgin heroine FMC
• Villainous Hero MMC
• Twists & Turns
• Lots of Banter
Content Warning: This book explores heavy themes including forced institutionalization, violence, captivity, trauma, manipulation, obsession, and other dark romance elements. Check trigger warnings before reading.
My Thoughts:
Mila Kane said, what if trauma, obsession, religion, and dark mafia chaos collided inside a psychiatric institution? …and then somehow made it heartbreakingly romantic.
Sacred Ruin is the final installment in the Original Sin series and follows Katarina, a woman trapped inside Hallow Hall after experiencing disturbing visions, where reality feels unreliable and danger hides behind holy robes and smiling faces. Into that nightmare walks Massimo, who is a former special forces now turned hitman whose presence feels less like salvation and more like temptation itself.
I would say that this book leans heavily into forbidden attraction, obsessive devotion, morally gray characters, and psychological darkness. The atmosphere felt claustrophobic and deeply unsettling but to me it was a compelling way to set the tone of the book and really hook the reader into the storyline. I spent much of the story questioning who was manipulating whom, what was really happening behind the scenes and whether anyone (including the MMC) involved was capable of redemption.
Massimo is not a “good guy.” He’s possessive, violent, and terrifying at times. Yet Mila Kane somehow creates moments of vulnerability beneath all the brutality. It is also why I enjoyed the book so much as the villainous hero trope is one of my absolute favorite and a difficult male character type to write that needs to appeal to the female reader without coming off misogynistic or just leaving the reader hating the male main character. I would say that if your favorite trope is “he would burn the world down for her” followed by “but he is violent, possessive and does what he wants when he wants trope”, prepare yourself, you will love this book.
What astonished me the most was the emotional weight underneath the spice and darkness. Katarina’s struggle with agency (she has no autonomy), trust (she has been burned by even those who love her), and survival (she is badass) gave the romance & overall story a deeper higher stake than simple superficiality that some dark romance can have. This story had actual real-world darkness that didn’t close door, sugarcoat the darkness, but it is harder to read, so if you are don’t want to read what happens, what has happened in relation to how women have been historically treated than perhaps skip this book.
What Worked For me:
• Religious gothic, eerie setting
• Obsessive antihero villain energy
• Intense chemistry b/w FMC x MMC and high delicious spice
• Psychological tension throughout kept me hooked
• Emotional vulnerability hidden under violence and devotion
What didn’t work for:
• Uneven pacing in some sections
• Emotional moments occasionally needed more depth & grounding
• Hard to connect to character motivations at times
• Relationship dynamics felt too dark at times (overall it works for a dark romance)
• Heavy themes occasionally became emotionally exhausting rather than immersive for me
Things to Consider:
• Very dark romance and absolutely not for everyone (check those warnings people!)
• Heavy themes, violence, abuse against women, etc
• The morally gray behavior stays morally gray, please do not expect healthy communication here
If you enjoy authors like Rina Kent, Sadie Kincaid, or dark mafia romances where obsession borders on worship, Sacred Ruin may be worth adding to your TBR.
Readers comfortable with disturbing themes and possessive antiheroes will devour this one, I certainly did!
The story blends psychological unease with brutal devotion and wraps it in Mila Kane’s signature dark romance style.
Would I recommend it?
For dark romance lovers: Yes
For readers wanting morally black antiheroes: Yes
For readers avoiding trauma-heavy content: Probably not
Story Rating: 4/5
Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Neurospicy Rating: Rent Free, likely forever (I will be reading the other 2 in this series)
My Overall Rating: 4.5/5⭐
June 5, 2026
⭐⭐⭐ 3 Stars
Sacred Ruin was one of those books that completely sucked me in at the beginning but lost me a bit by the end. 😅📖 Overall, I enjoyed it enough to keep reading and needed to know what was going to happen next, but there were definitely some things that didn't work for me.
The strongest part of this book was easily the asylum setting. Hallow Hall was creepy, disturbing, and honestly terrifying. 😳🏥 The mystery surrounding Kat's imprisonment kept me hooked from the start, and every new reveal made me want answers even more. Watching her survive years of abuse, manipulation, and experimentation was heartbreaking. 💔
Massimo was definitely my favorite character. 🔪🖤 I love a possessive, obsessive MMC, and once this man decided Kat was his, there was no changing his mind. However... can we talk about the nickname "little stray"? 😭 I hated it. Every time he said it, I cringed a little.
I also wasn't a fan of their first time together. Maybe it's just me, but having her lose her virginity in a church after being locked away and mentally abused for three years felt wrong. ⛪😬 It completely threw me off. Kat had barely experienced freedom, and I would've much preferred if their first time happened after she escaped Hallow Hall and had a chance to breathe and regain some control over her life. Instead, it felt uncomfortable and left me with mixed feelings.
As for Kat... girl, why are you constantly getting yourself into trouble? 😭😂 I understood her need for independence. After being imprisoned for years, of course she wanted to make her own choices and stop feeling like a prisoner. But there were so many moments where I wanted to grab her shoulders and tell her to STAY PUT. Every time she wandered off alone, I was immediately stressed because I knew something bad was about to happen. And sure enough... she'd get herself caught AGAIN. 🤦♀️
One thing the book did really well was keep me anxious whenever Kat was separated from Massimo. I was constantly waiting for the next disaster to happen. 😅 The tension was definitely there.
I was also happy to see Lucy again! 🥹❤️ She was a nice familiar presence in the middle of all the chaos.
As for the mystery, I have to admit the big plot twist wasn't a huge surprise to me. 👀 About halfway through the book I started suspecting the truth because it felt like the only explanation for why everyone kept insisting Kat was "special." So while I enjoyed the reveal, it wasn't exactly shocking.
Unfortunately, the second half of the book started to feel overcrowded. There were so many plot twists, kidnappings, escapes, secrets, and dramatic reveals happening that things became a little messy. 🤯 Some storylines felt underdeveloped, and a few of the darker revelations deserved more explanation than they received.
By the time I reached the ending, I felt like the story had lost some of the momentum that made the first half so compelling. The HEA was there, but it felt rushed, and I was left with quite a few unanswered questions. 🤷♀️
Overall, Sacred Ruin had an incredibly intriguing premise, a dark and unsettling atmosphere, and a hero I really enjoyed. 🖤 But the pacing issues, some questionable romance choices, and the chaotic second half kept this from being a higher rating for me.
If you love dark romance, asylum settings, obsessive heroes, forced proximity, and plenty of twists, you'll probably have a good time with this one.
⭐⭐⭐
Sacred Ruin was one of those books that completely sucked me in at the beginning but lost me a bit by the end. 😅📖 Overall, I enjoyed it enough to keep reading and needed to know what was going to happen next, but there were definitely some things that didn't work for me.
The strongest part of this book was easily the asylum setting. Hallow Hall was creepy, disturbing, and honestly terrifying. 😳🏥 The mystery surrounding Kat's imprisonment kept me hooked from the start, and every new reveal made me want answers even more. Watching her survive years of abuse, manipulation, and experimentation was heartbreaking. 💔
Massimo was definitely my favorite character. 🔪🖤 I love a possessive, obsessive MMC, and once this man decided Kat was his, there was no changing his mind. However... can we talk about the nickname "little stray"? 😭 I hated it. Every time he said it, I cringed a little.
I also wasn't a fan of their first time together. Maybe it's just me, but having her lose her virginity in a church after being locked away and mentally abused for three years felt wrong. ⛪😬 It completely threw me off. Kat had barely experienced freedom, and I would've much preferred if their first time happened after she escaped Hallow Hall and had a chance to breathe and regain some control over her life. Instead, it felt uncomfortable and left me with mixed feelings.
As for Kat... girl, why are you constantly getting yourself into trouble? 😭😂 I understood her need for independence. After being imprisoned for years, of course she wanted to make her own choices and stop feeling like a prisoner. But there were so many moments where I wanted to grab her shoulders and tell her to STAY PUT. Every time she wandered off alone, I was immediately stressed because I knew something bad was about to happen. And sure enough... she'd get herself caught AGAIN. 🤦♀️
One thing the book did really well was keep me anxious whenever Kat was separated from Massimo. I was constantly waiting for the next disaster to happen. 😅 The tension was definitely there.
I was also happy to see Lucy again! 🥹❤️ She was a nice familiar presence in the middle of all the chaos.
As for the mystery, I have to admit the big plot twist wasn't a huge surprise to me. 👀 About halfway through the book I started suspecting the truth because it felt like the only explanation for why everyone kept insisting Kat was "special." So while I enjoyed the reveal, it wasn't exactly shocking.
Unfortunately, the second half of the book started to feel overcrowded. There were so many plot twists, kidnappings, escapes, secrets, and dramatic reveals happening that things became a little messy. 🤯 Some storylines felt underdeveloped, and a few of the darker revelations deserved more explanation than they received.
By the time I reached the ending, I felt like the story had lost some of the momentum that made the first half so compelling. The HEA was there, but it felt rushed, and I was left with quite a few unanswered questions. 🤷♀️
Overall, Sacred Ruin had an incredibly intriguing premise, a dark and unsettling atmosphere, and a hero I really enjoyed. 🖤 But the pacing issues, some questionable romance choices, and the chaotic second half kept this from being a higher rating for me.
If you love dark romance, asylum settings, obsessive heroes, forced proximity, and plenty of twists, you'll probably have a good time with this one.
⭐⭐⭐
September 15, 2026
Not very far into this audiobook and I finally had to Google whether or not it took place in the current century. I thought that maybe during the first couple of chapters I missed it being mentioned the current year was 1700/1800-something due to the ridiculous way Katarina ended up at the Hallow Hall Institute. I get that the author needed to find a way to get Katarina into the asylum but the only option she had was to go back to the Salem Witch Trial days and have her committed because some dude was mad because she said no to marrying him? So then, said man-child tells his Uncle, who happens to be a priest, that Katarina is an adulterer and witch? A WITCH? REALLY? All this being told to her (supposedly) loving and devoted mother and mom is all "yep, lock her up!" without even asking her daughter to explain? Or even ask for more details from the Uncle and baby-man (I refuse to figure out his name) like: who are the married men she's been trapesing around with, or, what exactly did this guy see that he would consider labeling her daughter a witch, OR who the hell this kid is and why is he so focused on her daughter in the first place? But no, Mom was willing to take the word of some guy she clearly doesn't know and a priest. I just find that hard to believe, especially when the concept is taking place in the 20th century. Also, Katarina, SAY SOMETHING! You know how quickly I'd be throwing that kid under the bus? I'd demand to go to the doctor to prove I hadn't been with anyone, I'd demand names of the so-called married men I'd been with, I'd be calling that kid out for his ridiculous and childish response to me turning him down. Seriously girl! AND later on, we're told that Katarina is currently 25 and has been at the Institute for 3 years which means she was 22 when she was admitted, making her a full-blown adult. Her mother couldn't have had her simply committed because she said so, she wasn't her ward or considered a juvenile. So how was her mother just able to make that happen?
Second, we get to hear the story of Massimo's mother. I get that her story took place a few decades before this current storyline but that would place her somewhere within the 1980's-1990's. The way her story is told, it's made to feel like it took place in the 1890's. She clearly was attacked which lead to her unwanted and mysterious 2nd pregnancy. I get that the religious community she surrounded herself with may have ostracized her and her son, but you're telling me that her boss was able to get her committed? Her boss? HER BOSS???? What? In the 1980's/1990's her boss was able to have her committed to a psych ward? Sorry but I don't think that's how things work. Also, I'm throwing my guess out now that her boss was the one who attacked her and got her pregnant. Why else would a boss be so invested in his employee's mental state?
It keeps being said that Katarina is "special" and with how new I am to the story, I'm not 100% sure how her life is actually set up. I haven't read any of the other books in this series and I'm not aware of how the mafia concept plays into this. I'm hoping that some of these ridiculousness and archaic practices are explained by some "mafia family rules" concept. We'll see....
Second, we get to hear the story of Massimo's mother. I get that her story took place a few decades before this current storyline but that would place her somewhere within the 1980's-1990's. The way her story is told, it's made to feel like it took place in the 1890's. She clearly was attacked which lead to her unwanted and mysterious 2nd pregnancy. I get that the religious community she surrounded herself with may have ostracized her and her son, but you're telling me that her boss was able to get her committed? Her boss? HER BOSS???? What? In the 1980's/1990's her boss was able to have her committed to a psych ward? Sorry but I don't think that's how things work. Also, I'm throwing my guess out now that her boss was the one who attacked her and got her pregnant. Why else would a boss be so invested in his employee's mental state?
It keeps being said that Katarina is "special" and with how new I am to the story, I'm not 100% sure how her life is actually set up. I haven't read any of the other books in this series and I'm not aware of how the mafia concept plays into this. I'm hoping that some of these ridiculousness and archaic practices are explained by some "mafia family rules" concept. We'll see....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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