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A Lesson in Ruin: A Slow-Burn Forbidden Romantasy
What happens when a human girl slaps a Fae lord at a royal ball?
He smiles. And the court can't stop talking.
Ardelia Zorov didn't come to Prylon to start a scandal. She came to survive the marriage season, secure a proposal, and save her father from a life she can't afford. As a human in a Fae court, she's already the least interesting option in the room.
The plan was simple. Smile. Curtsey. Don't make enemies with immortals.
She is very bad at this plan.
Her mentor is a High Lady with exacting standards. Her competition has magic, money, and better cheekbones. And then there's Lord Andos Kadawn—shadow fae heir, shameless rake, and the man who apparently thinks "training her for court" means showing up shirtless to mock her at every opportunity.
He's betrothed. He's untouchable. He's insufferable.
He's also the only one who doesn't treat her like she's invisible.
The more Ardelia sees of Prylon, the more she realizes the glittering court hides something rotten. And Andos? He's hiding most of all.
She came to survive the season.
She's beginning to suspect survival was never the game.
For fans of Bridgerton and ACOTAR—a romantasy of sharp banter, slow-burn tension, and the kind of trouble that starts with a slap.
He smiles. And the court can't stop talking.
Ardelia Zorov didn't come to Prylon to start a scandal. She came to survive the marriage season, secure a proposal, and save her father from a life she can't afford. As a human in a Fae court, she's already the least interesting option in the room.
The plan was simple. Smile. Curtsey. Don't make enemies with immortals.
She is very bad at this plan.
Her mentor is a High Lady with exacting standards. Her competition has magic, money, and better cheekbones. And then there's Lord Andos Kadawn—shadow fae heir, shameless rake, and the man who apparently thinks "training her for court" means showing up shirtless to mock her at every opportunity.
He's betrothed. He's untouchable. He's insufferable.
He's also the only one who doesn't treat her like she's invisible.
The more Ardelia sees of Prylon, the more she realizes the glittering court hides something rotten. And Andos? He's hiding most of all.
She came to survive the season.
She's beginning to suspect survival was never the game.
For fans of Bridgerton and ACOTAR—a romantasy of sharp banter, slow-burn tension, and the kind of trouble that starts with a slap.
500 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2026
About the author
Rea Alexandris
15 books16 followersRea Alexandris lives in the vibrant city of Brussels with her husband, their three lovely children, and an endlessly curious cat who seems to have stepped straight out of one of her stories. Surrounded by the blend of history and modernity that Brussels offers, she finds inspiration in the whispers of ancient legends and the magic hidden in everyday life.
A lifelong dreamer and avid reader, Rea Alexandris has always found solace and adventure in the pages of fantasy novels. Writing, for her, is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way to explore the complexities of human emotion, the beauty of resilience, and the power of hope. She believes fantasy allows us to confront real-world challenges through the lens of imagination, where courage and transformation become possible for anyone.
Currently, she is immersed in creating The Chronicles of Aeryndor, a sweeping epic that delves into forbidden magic, rebellion, and the personal journeys of characters caught in the struggle for freedom and self-discovery. The saga is more than a story; it’s a testament to the strength found in embracing who you are and fighting for what truly matters.
But her storytelling doesn’t stop there—Rea Alexandris already has two more sagas outlined, ready to take readers on new adventures in richly imagined worlds.
When she’s not crafting stories, Rea Alexandris can be found chasing after her children, wandering through the streets of Brussels for inspiration, or curling up with a cup of tea and her cat, plotting the next twist in her tales.
A lifelong dreamer and avid reader, Rea Alexandris has always found solace and adventure in the pages of fantasy novels. Writing, for her, is more than just a creative outlet—it’s a way to explore the complexities of human emotion, the beauty of resilience, and the power of hope. She believes fantasy allows us to confront real-world challenges through the lens of imagination, where courage and transformation become possible for anyone.
Currently, she is immersed in creating The Chronicles of Aeryndor, a sweeping epic that delves into forbidden magic, rebellion, and the personal journeys of characters caught in the struggle for freedom and self-discovery. The saga is more than a story; it’s a testament to the strength found in embracing who you are and fighting for what truly matters.
But her storytelling doesn’t stop there—Rea Alexandris already has two more sagas outlined, ready to take readers on new adventures in richly imagined worlds.
When she’s not crafting stories, Rea Alexandris can be found chasing after her children, wandering through the streets of Brussels for inspiration, or curling up with a cup of tea and her cat, plotting the next twist in her tales.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 22, 2026
This e-ARC was sent to me by the author. All opinions are my own.
3.75 ⭐️ rounded up
This was so good. I loved the banter and the chemistry between Ardelia and Andos. They were also really funny. Ardelia is a strong FMC; she doesn’t let anyone walk over her, even Andos.
However, there are a few things i didn’t like:
• Enemies-to-lovers doesn’t work when they feel attracted to the other right after they meet, and there isn’t a strong enough reason to call them enemies.
• The middle of the book was a bit repetitive, with the same back and forth during several scenes.
3.75 ⭐️ rounded up
This was so good. I loved the banter and the chemistry between Ardelia and Andos. They were also really funny. Ardelia is a strong FMC; she doesn’t let anyone walk over her, even Andos.
However, there are a few things i didn’t like:
• Enemies-to-lovers doesn’t work when they feel attracted to the other right after they meet, and there isn’t a strong enough reason to call them enemies.
• The middle of the book was a bit repetitive, with the same back and forth during several scenes.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
"That is blackmail". "I prefer to think of it as strategic incentive".
Bridgerton meets ACOSF
Ardelia, human female ward under Lady Elimbra, has been sent to the Fae realm as repayment against her father's debts. Her task; find a Fae husband to ensure the safety of her father's medical practice. But Ravencourt is a dangerous place and Ardelia needs to tread carefully to ensure she keeps her head , and her heart.The problem ; Tall dark and brooding High Lord Andos. Their chemistry is electric , but he's betrothed to another.
Blessed Saints ! I LOVE this book!!! It's clever, witty and funny. I didn't want to put it down. I love banter and yearning and this book has both in spades. The slow burn ❤️🔥 will have you sizzling, I was sat on the edge of my seat to see how this would turn out.
Ardelia is our human female caught up in fae world of magnificent beauty and magical elegance. She has a smart tongue and a wicked sense of humour, whilst being headstrong and self assured (gives me Eloise bridgerton mixed with Nesta Archeron 😍). I am completely obsessed with her character.
Andos is our high Lord shadow Daddy (need I say more). Tall dark and brooding, he's carrying some emotional baggage under his rough exterior. I love the dual POV and Andos' confessions are poetry.
Also , the supporting characters are great, really well developed. Lady Elimbra Is hilarious 😂 and Finn needs his own book IMO.
Tropes
- Tutor x student moments
- Class Divide
- Political games
- F*** it moment
Pros
-Smart and Sassy FMC
-LOL funny 🤣
- well developed storyline that will draw you in
Cons
- There are still a few editing errors but expected as an ARC
Overall rating: 5/5
This book cured my Bridgerton hangover 😍
#bookstagrammer #booktokrecs #fantasyreads #romantasy #enemiestolovers newreleases
"That is blackmail". "I prefer to think of it as strategic incentive".
Bridgerton meets ACOSF
Ardelia, human female ward under Lady Elimbra, has been sent to the Fae realm as repayment against her father's debts. Her task; find a Fae husband to ensure the safety of her father's medical practice. But Ravencourt is a dangerous place and Ardelia needs to tread carefully to ensure she keeps her head , and her heart.The problem ; Tall dark and brooding High Lord Andos. Their chemistry is electric , but he's betrothed to another.
Blessed Saints ! I LOVE this book!!! It's clever, witty and funny. I didn't want to put it down. I love banter and yearning and this book has both in spades. The slow burn ❤️🔥 will have you sizzling, I was sat on the edge of my seat to see how this would turn out.
Ardelia is our human female caught up in fae world of magnificent beauty and magical elegance. She has a smart tongue and a wicked sense of humour, whilst being headstrong and self assured (gives me Eloise bridgerton mixed with Nesta Archeron 😍). I am completely obsessed with her character.
Andos is our high Lord shadow Daddy (need I say more). Tall dark and brooding, he's carrying some emotional baggage under his rough exterior. I love the dual POV and Andos' confessions are poetry.
Also , the supporting characters are great, really well developed. Lady Elimbra Is hilarious 😂 and Finn needs his own book IMO.
Tropes
- Tutor x student moments
- Class Divide
- Political games
- F*** it moment
Pros
-Smart and Sassy FMC
-LOL funny 🤣
- well developed storyline that will draw you in
Cons
- There are still a few editing errors but expected as an ARC
Overall rating: 5/5
This book cured my Bridgerton hangover 😍
#bookstagrammer #booktokrecs #fantasyreads #romantasy #enemiestolovers newreleases
June 1, 2025
This book is so incredible, amazing characters, amazing tension and drama, nothing in this story happens without flair and sass!
I love this book - by far one of the greatest stories I've read in a while (and i've read a lot).
Rea Alexandris has done an incredible job, I know I'll be returning to this story more than once in the future ♡
I love this book - by far one of the greatest stories I've read in a while (and i've read a lot).
Rea Alexandris has done an incredible job, I know I'll be returning to this story more than once in the future ♡
February 15, 2026
ARC Review
Duty over everything until something gives.
This was an absolute page turner
I was completely compelled into this world
Every word held its weight in gold and I couldn't get enough
I did not think this Bridgeton styled fae book would be as amazing as it was
I am speechless and cannot find the words to express the level of how good this book really is.
This story follows our FMC Ardelia, a human girl who is seen as a walking disaster waiting to happen. Who unknowingly holds a secret that can change everything not only what she believes but what others do as well
Enter our MMC Shadow Daddy Andos, the shadow courts high lord known by all as a rake. Whos shadows have a mind of their own but only when she is near. He may be grumpy, stubborn, and admiting the truth to himself is harder than he cares to admit.
We get an enemies to lovers filled with sharp banter, forbidden romance, high tension, a beautifully written slow burn, the little twists that are perfection, and then to top it off we get some brilliant side characters who could all get a storyline for themselves
Rae can truly write and I have no doubt I will be reading more her work in the future. This book has set a standard but I am positive book 2 will exceed my expectations. I feel from the teaser we get for book 2, it is flipping the second chance romance slightly on its head. I mean we (I would say just me but feel everyone will agree) absolutely grows to loath the FMC as a side character in the first book, however I feel a redemption coming her way where we end up loving her in the end because who doesn't love a character who isnt who we think she is due to unknown history et cetera et cetera
Duty over everything until something gives.
This was an absolute page turner
I was completely compelled into this world
Every word held its weight in gold and I couldn't get enough
I did not think this Bridgeton styled fae book would be as amazing as it was
I am speechless and cannot find the words to express the level of how good this book really is.
This story follows our FMC Ardelia, a human girl who is seen as a walking disaster waiting to happen. Who unknowingly holds a secret that can change everything not only what she believes but what others do as well
Enter our MMC Shadow Daddy Andos, the shadow courts high lord known by all as a rake. Whos shadows have a mind of their own but only when she is near. He may be grumpy, stubborn, and admiting the truth to himself is harder than he cares to admit.
We get an enemies to lovers filled with sharp banter, forbidden romance, high tension, a beautifully written slow burn, the little twists that are perfection, and then to top it off we get some brilliant side characters who could all get a storyline for themselves
Rae can truly write and I have no doubt I will be reading more her work in the future. This book has set a standard but I am positive book 2 will exceed my expectations. I feel from the teaser we get for book 2, it is flipping the second chance romance slightly on its head. I mean we (I would say just me but feel everyone will agree) absolutely grows to loath the FMC as a side character in the first book, however I feel a redemption coming her way where we end up loving her in the end because who doesn't love a character who isnt who we think she is due to unknown history et cetera et cetera
February 22, 2026
This book completely swept me away from the very first chapter. I went in expecting a fun romantasy read, but what I got was so much more—rich world-building, layered characters, emotional depth, and a romance that felt both intense and meaningful. The balance between magic, tension, and character growth was handled beautifully, and I found myself thinking about the story even when I wasn’t reading.
What really stood out to me was the protagonist’s journey. Watching them struggle, grow, and confront both external conflicts and inner doubts made everything feel real and personal. The romantic tension was perfectly paced—not rushed, not dragged out—and every interaction felt earned. I especially loved how the emotional stakes were just as powerful as the magical ones.
The writing style flowed effortlessly, making it easy to get lost in the world. Some scenes were so vivid that I could picture them like a movie in my head. And that ending? Absolutely unforgettable. It left me satisfied but still wanting more in the best way possible.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What really stood out to me was the protagonist’s journey. Watching them struggle, grow, and confront both external conflicts and inner doubts made everything feel real and personal. The romantic tension was perfectly paced—not rushed, not dragged out—and every interaction felt earned. I especially loved how the emotional stakes were just as powerful as the magical ones.
The writing style flowed effortlessly, making it easy to get lost in the world. Some scenes were so vivid that I could picture them like a movie in my head. And that ending? Absolutely unforgettable. It left me satisfied but still wanting more in the best way possible.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you had told me I’d be giving five stars to a Bridgerton-style book, I wouldn’t have believed you. But add Fae and magic? SOLD.
I absolutely loved the push and pull between the very human Ardelia and our High Shadow Daddy, Lord Andos. I mean… what could possibly go wrong? This book has everything you want from a five-star read: the infatuation, the tension, THE CLOAK, the scandal, and Ardelia’s sharp, clever mouth. Every single bit of it was delicious. The banter was top-tier, and even the servants added so much charm to the story.
Honestly, I could go on and on, but my ultimate goosebump moment hits at 81% — and when you get there, you’ll know exactly what I mean. If you saw my stories, you already know… it was WILD.
This gave me the same feeling of greatness I had reading The Silversmith by LJ Claren last year — and that’s saying something.
A Lesson in Ruin releases February 14th, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this one.
I absolutely loved the push and pull between the very human Ardelia and our High Shadow Daddy, Lord Andos. I mean… what could possibly go wrong? This book has everything you want from a five-star read: the infatuation, the tension, THE CLOAK, the scandal, and Ardelia’s sharp, clever mouth. Every single bit of it was delicious. The banter was top-tier, and even the servants added so much charm to the story.
Honestly, I could go on and on, but my ultimate goosebump moment hits at 81% — and when you get there, you’ll know exactly what I mean. If you saw my stories, you already know… it was WILD.
This gave me the same feeling of greatness I had reading The Silversmith by LJ Claren last year — and that’s saying something.
A Lesson in Ruin releases February 14th, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this one.
February 14, 2026
Ahhh Rea you’ve done it again!! Popped out another hook, line, and sinker that has me hooked and had me screaming and cursing and of course sliding into your DMs to be like why why why. For the first book in your brand new series it did not disappoint and I knew it wouldn’t. Also you and your shadow daddies you knock it out of the park with them every time. Ugh you always make them so yummy and they always say the most scandalous things which is appropriate for this season of scandal. Think bridgerton but add in fae, magic, and one human girl trying to settle a debt. Ahh it was most delicious. It also had me laughing quite a bit but dont let that dull you there was heartbreak as well. The start of the season was one for the books and I cannot wait to see where it takes us next specially considering who the FMC will be but alas Rea always has a way of bringing me around. This gem is out now so go read! Go do it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So yes, this has been done before… but I still really loved this story. Even when it got a little repetitive at times, the writing style and the constant layers of mystery and unease kept me reading. I always felt like something was lurking just under the surface, and I loved it!!
I genuinely enjoyed Rae Aleandris’s prose. It leans slightly metaphorical at times, with these delicious little hints of humour and sarcasm woven throughout that made me smile. And the banter? So snappy and sharp. I was seriously taking notes.
Overall, I just really, really enjoyed this read. It didn’t feel dull or overloaded with tropes, which was such a breath of fresh air. If you love Bridgerton but want it darker—and with fae—you might love this. I know I did.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I genuinely enjoyed Rae Aleandris’s prose. It leans slightly metaphorical at times, with these delicious little hints of humour and sarcasm woven throughout that made me smile. And the banter? So snappy and sharp. I was seriously taking notes.
Overall, I just really, really enjoyed this read. It didn’t feel dull or overloaded with tropes, which was such a breath of fresh air. If you love Bridgerton but want it darker—and with fae—you might love this. I know I did.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2026
Overall I thought this was an excellent book. The fantasy world is well crafted and the characters work within the structure. The plot is fine although I think it is probably a bit too long, which to be fair is often the case with fantasy novels. Having said this it kept my interest from start to end,
The final part of the book was really enjoyable as it maintained the focus on the characters and although the drama increased it didn't become formulaic or overwhelm the emotions or the characters.
I particularly like Ardelia as the MFC as she is spirited and has a lot to cope with dealing with being a human in a fae court and coming to terms with her unexpected power. Andros is fine as her foil and romantic interest since he is not just an arrogant idiot as the MMC ends up being in a lot of books.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The final part of the book was really enjoyable as it maintained the focus on the characters and although the drama increased it didn't become formulaic or overwhelm the emotions or the characters.
I particularly like Ardelia as the MFC as she is spirited and has a lot to cope with dealing with being a human in a fae court and coming to terms with her unexpected power. Andros is fine as her foil and romantic interest since he is not just an arrogant idiot as the MMC ends up being in a lot of books.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was great book, a great adventure indeed. I'd like to put it out there that I absolutely detested Ardelia though, she was such a brat, expecting everything while not really giving anything except for her smart mouth. But Andos certainly made up for her shortcomings, both in his darkness and in his devotion. Elimbra was a great character and I did wish I'd grown up with an aunt like that and a friend like El. The story is captivating and the dialogue kept you coming back for more. Plus we got a satisfying HEA. If you love romantasy, some and an enemy to lovers, almost impossible love story, lots and lots of magic, also throwing in a bratty female lead, then yes this is the book for you. Enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 28, 2026
Ardelia and Andos
Loved every savage moment of this slow burn!!!! The back and forth banter was absolutely fantastic!!! Ardelia secretly being a Nullblood. The journey of Ardelia and Andos fighting their attraction to each other while Andos is promised to another and Ardelia is in search of a proposal. The Desire Moth scene is fabulous. The proposal scene, that led to Andos almost being murdered and the Eclipse moon binding. Elimbra being behind the whole thing, hoping that Andos and Ardelia would fall in love and save and protect the shadow court, boy is she conniving, and so good. Can't wait to find out what happens to the Ice princess!!!!!!
Loved every savage moment of this slow burn!!!! The back and forth banter was absolutely fantastic!!! Ardelia secretly being a Nullblood. The journey of Ardelia and Andos fighting their attraction to each other while Andos is promised to another and Ardelia is in search of a proposal. The Desire Moth scene is fabulous. The proposal scene, that led to Andos almost being murdered and the Eclipse moon binding. Elimbra being behind the whole thing, hoping that Andos and Ardelia would fall in love and save and protect the shadow court, boy is she conniving, and so good. Can't wait to find out what happens to the Ice princess!!!!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was amazing, it had incredible characters with amazing tension and drama. This story had all the flair and sass. It drew me in and kept me reading. I needed to know what was going to happen and I loved it. This book was so clever and had all the banter that i would ever need in a story. I kept reading because I needed to know how the story would turn out.
I received this as an arc and this was my opinion of the story.
I received this as an arc and this was my opinion of the story.
February 17, 2026
This is the first book in the series of Season of Scandal. The plan was simple, go to the Fae court, make a match and her father will receive the medical supplies he needs. What no one counts on is Andos and her falling in love. The book is full of surprises, twists and turns that you won't see coming. I love the characters and the chemistry between Ardelia and Andos. Happy ever after ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2026
Loved this story…..Bridgerton meets the fae world. This book was easy to get into…not a lot of world building. Story of a human girl sent to the fae realm to find a husband to safe her father’s medical practice. Love the relationships that build between our. FMC and MMC and the other people in her life…her maidservant and the cooks. Can’t wait for the next book!!
March 8, 2026
Rea Alexandris has done it again! I read her epic fantasy romance series The Chronicles of Aeryndor, so when this came out I had to read it right away.
This delicious page turner is Brigerton meets ACOTAR. Forbidden love, court politics, sneaky kisses in alcoves, a deadly rival, and magic unfolding with all of it? Absolute perfection.
Cannot WAIT to read Kenza’s story!
This delicious page turner is Brigerton meets ACOTAR. Forbidden love, court politics, sneaky kisses in alcoves, a deadly rival, and magic unfolding with all of it? Absolute perfection.
Cannot WAIT to read Kenza’s story!
March 12, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! I couldn't put it down! I read it it till the we hours of the morning..making work the next day impossible! The main FMC so smart and witty her wicked tongue had me giggling at parts. The MMC oooo shadow daddy his on and off affections could give a girl whiplash.
Over all such a wild ride!
Over all such a wild ride!
February 22, 2026
Satisfying
The heroine is not usual. The dialogue is sharp without being cliche. There is a solid political plot that uplifts the romance. It is not a pale imitation copy of the latest bestseller.
Well done.
The heroine is not usual. The dialogue is sharp without being cliche. There is a solid political plot that uplifts the romance. It is not a pale imitation copy of the latest bestseller.
Well done.
February 23, 2026
I absolutely loved Ardelia and Andos. She’s a firecracker that doesn’t take any BS, and Andos is a walking tease lol. These two were hilarious. I loved the banter, the description of this, the world building. Everything was just so well done. This was a really fun story and I enjoyed it immensely.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews