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A rune in the Rubble: The God's Bait Saga - Book One
"Fear prevents us from growing."
Felgarth, one of humanity's last bastions, is a city of walls. A safe haven from the demons that spill through The Flaw.
But for Rhys, a guard striving to join the Rangers beyond, and Ambrose, a young thief desperate to protect those he loves, these walls feel like prison.
When a noble goes missing and Ambrose is falsely accused, Rhys pursues him into a nefarious plot that threatens to leave the city, and their loved ones in mortal peril. As the two battle for their place in the city, can they overcome the dangerous secrets that threaten to tear it down?
A fast paced fantasy book with excitement, danger and spice for all to enjoy
Felgarth, one of humanity's last bastions, is a city of walls. A safe haven from the demons that spill through The Flaw.
But for Rhys, a guard striving to join the Rangers beyond, and Ambrose, a young thief desperate to protect those he loves, these walls feel like prison.
When a noble goes missing and Ambrose is falsely accused, Rhys pursues him into a nefarious plot that threatens to leave the city, and their loved ones in mortal peril. As the two battle for their place in the city, can they overcome the dangerous secrets that threaten to tear it down?
A fast paced fantasy book with excitement, danger and spice for all to enjoy
- GenresFantasyM M Romance
323 pages, Hardcover
Published May 27, 2025
6 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
June 6, 2025
Great debut! For clarity there are 2 main male male romances in this book, with a whole lot of juicy fantasy drama in between. Really unique world building and well executed plot.
Spoiler part: Can’t believe a main character was killed off. Has been a long time since I read a book that did that, but it packed an emotional punch. Sad. Hope for the best for all the characters!
Spoiler part: Can’t believe a main character was killed off. Has been a long time since I read a book that did that, but it packed an emotional punch. Sad. Hope for the best for all the characters!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2025
I have hardly any experience with fantasy. But the author drew my attention to the book via his Instagram account and I thought I'd give it a try. Well, and I was rewarded for it. This book is just great ❤️! So multifaceted, I was enchanted into a completely different world! The story is exciting, thrilling, but also incredibly sexy 🔥🥵! We don't just have two main characters, but three, who we learn a little more about in each chapter. Rhys, Ambrose and Jasper are brave men, and they take us with them on their adventures. But I also took Caolan, with his moods and great loyalty, to my heart. I love the story and can only recommend it to everyone. At the end you can't wait to find out what happens next! I'm looking forward to the next book.
June 16, 2025
It has been a while since i've read a LGBTQ friendly fantasy book and this did not disappoint! Loved the way characters seamlessly cross over with one another, making me not want to skip a chapter. The balance between action and romance in this is perfect, where the plot does not give out due to overwhelming romance. Thoroughly enjoyed the fight scenes <3
Looking forward to the second book now, please write faster Steven Cavehill!
Looking forward to the second book now, please write faster Steven Cavehill!
June 12, 2025
It’s always a risk buying a book from a first time author, however this risk well and truly paid off. An absolutely brilliant setting, with well fleshed out characters, an intricate plot and I genuinely can’t wait for the second instalment.
Over the years I’ve found some authors have issues with dialogue not sounding authentic, Steven Cavehill has definitely not had this issue with the dialogue appearing natural and nuanced.
Hopefully we’ll be seeing a lot more from this author and definitely one to follow.
Over the years I’ve found some authors have issues with dialogue not sounding authentic, Steven Cavehill has definitely not had this issue with the dialogue appearing natural and nuanced.
Hopefully we’ll be seeing a lot more from this author and definitely one to follow.
May 30, 2025
a fun and cute sword and fantasy m/m romance, worth the read
August 15, 2025
Second world fantasy told in past tense from multiple POVs. This was an entertaining entry to a new world and a new series, with characters that the author made me care enough about to want to see more of. This book is based in the city of Felgarth, and Cavehill really nails the seemingly universal dynamics of cities, in particular wealth differences and what it means for poorer parts of the city. He also deftly ties in the mystery of Jasper’s disappearance with bigger secrets being kept by a handful of powerful people.
The story is queer-normative with great gender balances in both main and minor characters, the action scenes are perfectly choreographed, and I think Cavehill sometimes seems as if he’s about to fall back on cliche, then takes the story in an unexpected direction. I would not call this book romantasy; it’s a fantasy story where some of the characters have long-term established relationships and others more casual encounters, but they’re not the focus of the story, it just helps build characterisation. I’m really looking forward to the next in the series and highly recommend it!
The story is queer-normative with great gender balances in both main and minor characters, the action scenes are perfectly choreographed, and I think Cavehill sometimes seems as if he’s about to fall back on cliche, then takes the story in an unexpected direction. I would not call this book romantasy; it’s a fantasy story where some of the characters have long-term established relationships and others more casual encounters, but they’re not the focus of the story, it just helps build characterisation. I’m really looking forward to the next in the series and highly recommend it!
August 9, 2025
an excellent, enthralling read!
First off - I haven’t read a fantasy book in YEARS, and I’ve never read a mm fantasy!
This book was so enthralling. The pieces come together slowly and so beautifully. I admit I was confused for a while, but I think we are meant to be. And the understanding slowly comes.
I really enjoyed this book and the change of pace. I can guarantee I will be thinking about this book for quite some time. How in the world the author was able to create this world with these interconnected storyline is beyond me!
But ummm Jasper?! Come on!!!
First off - I haven’t read a fantasy book in YEARS, and I’ve never read a mm fantasy!
This book was so enthralling. The pieces come together slowly and so beautifully. I admit I was confused for a while, but I think we are meant to be. And the understanding slowly comes.
I really enjoyed this book and the change of pace. I can guarantee I will be thinking about this book for quite some time. How in the world the author was able to create this world with these interconnected storyline is beyond me!
But ummm Jasper?! Come on!!!
July 31, 2025
A smashing debut novel! Incredibly compelling story with twists and turns, and grounded characters with vivid lives I can’t want to read more about. The spicy elements are sexy but sensitive and add some fun to a dramatic and twisting story. Humour is woven all the way through, and the lore of the world the author has created is deep and interesting.
Write faster Mr Cavehill I need book 2 in my life now!
Write faster Mr Cavehill I need book 2 in my life now!
July 12, 2025
This is my first time reading a debut novel by a new author. I’m so glad I gave it a go, especially as I’ve been getting more into fantasy lately.
The story is told through multiple POVs and features two male-male romances, which is probably the first time I’ve come across that in a fantasy book. It was refreshing and handled really well.
The writing is great, with strong characters and solid world-building, and it all builds up to an action-packed, satisfying ending. I genuinely can’t wait for the next one - Steven, hurry it up!
The story is told through multiple POVs and features two male-male romances, which is probably the first time I’ve come across that in a fantasy book. It was refreshing and handled really well.
The writing is great, with strong characters and solid world-building, and it all builds up to an action-packed, satisfying ending. I genuinely can’t wait for the next one - Steven, hurry it up!
July 18, 2025
I was contacted by Steven to see if I’d like to read his debut book. I decided to hop straight on it!
Well what a great debut! I won’t go into too much detail but there is ⚔️ m/m action but also an epic storyline. Family loyalty ✅ mythical creatures ✅ magic system ✅ sword fighting 😉⚔️✅
Steven how could you do that??? You know who I mean 😭😭
Brilliant debut novel which is worth the read
Well what a great debut! I won’t go into too much detail but there is ⚔️ m/m action but also an epic storyline. Family loyalty ✅ mythical creatures ✅ magic system ✅ sword fighting 😉⚔️✅
Steven how could you do that??? You know who I mean 😭😭
Brilliant debut novel which is worth the read
February 8, 2026
I really enjoyed this book. I usually listen to audiobooks and a book actually has to catch my interest for me to read it (especially as an e-book). I liked the story and characters.There were some things that could still use a little editing and there were grammar mistakes. But overall an enjoyable book :)
August 8, 2025
Loved every second
Excellent combination of sci fi and gay romance. It’s hard to pick a favorite character but Rhys & Ambrose are my top 2. I can’t wait for the next installment.
Excellent combination of sci fi and gay romance. It’s hard to pick a favorite character but Rhys & Ambrose are my top 2. I can’t wait for the next installment.
December 13, 2025
“Fear prevents us from growing”
A Rune in the rubble by Steven Cavehill is an epic fantasy set in a queer normative world, where a city lies in ruins 20 years after demons attacked and the divide between the lower class and the high born grows wider every day.
This is a great debut by Steven as it digs into the consequences of making choices for the “greater good”. The intricacies of who gets to make those decisions and what sacrifice is worth it for the people and who benefits the most.
The story follows three characters as the truth is unlocked and more questions are left unanswered.
High fantasy
Plenty of banter and grumpy looks
Fast paced
Spice is optional
Already established couple
Witcher vibes
kick ass female side characters
A Rune in the rubble by Steven Cavehill is an epic fantasy set in a queer normative world, where a city lies in ruins 20 years after demons attacked and the divide between the lower class and the high born grows wider every day.
This is a great debut by Steven as it digs into the consequences of making choices for the “greater good”. The intricacies of who gets to make those decisions and what sacrifice is worth it for the people and who benefits the most.
The story follows three characters as the truth is unlocked and more questions are left unanswered.
High fantasy
Plenty of banter and grumpy looks
Fast paced
Spice is optional
Already established couple
Witcher vibes
kick ass female side characters
December 6, 2025
One of my goals in 2025 was to read more truly unknown books. Some of my favorite reads have been nearly unknown, and popularity is no indicator of quality. Steven Cavehill’s pitch for his book on r/queersff caught my eye, and I mentally bookmarked it for when I started one of my kindle binges. It’s got some classic high fantasy and dystopia elements, and was a fun read. I’ll definitely pick up the sequel, but I also hope that Cavehill goes through a final round of line-edits on his writing next time around.
Read if Looking For: asshole families, always another secret, tropey fantasy characters, overly-dependent relationships, notices at the start and end of sex scenes
Avoid if Looking For: polished writing, characters who see the plot coming at them, books free from fantasy racism (elves)
Elevator Pitch:
Rhys is a city guard relegated to paperwork, much to the disappointment of his noble family. He’s dating the mildly possessive leader of the demon-hunter Rangers, an organization he’s working to join. Ambrose is a half-elf thief desperately trying to buy a better life for his younger brother. The two are on a collision course when Ambrose robs a noble runesmith, accidentally causing the house to burn down and starting a manhunt for him. A manhunt Rune is placed in charge of.
What Worked for Me
The highlight of this book, and the reason I prioritized it, was that its author talked about how the story involved multiple queer men who weren’t dating each other. While there are couples, most of the time we got to see non-romantic interactions. Sadly, I can only think of a few other books like this, and I loved every second of it. Even though many of the characters didn’t get along (Ambrose and Caolan bickering was delightful). Just really fun dynamics all around. I think most of the characters ended up squarely in trope-laden territory. Rune in the Rubble doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it executes on fun ideas well.
Another big plus was the action scenes. There weren’t many in this book (seems like more coming in the sequel, hopefully!) but all were well done. Cavehill does a great job of making fights feel like the characters are up against overwhelming odds. Whether it’s the competent fighters trying to take down a man who can’t be killed, or a thief desperately fleeing a demon, I was always on the edge of my seat in these scenes.
The worldbuilding is simplistic, but engaging. Sometimes I thought it was a bit too simple (each of the four wards of the city was overly specialized in a single industry), but the revelations near the end of the book lay the groundwork for some really interesting strings for Cavehill to pull on. A running thread for this book is that it won’t be blowing anyone away with innovation, but it was a story I kept coming back to for the sort of warm fun adventure story I liked when I was a kid … except this is for adults.
What Didn’t Work For Me:
This book has a lot of the typical issues I’d associate with a debut self-published book. Those looking for polished writing will find frustrations here. It’s not uncommon for sentences to repeat words, include typos, or have an awkward flow. For me, I was enjoying the story enough that I could push past these issues, but it was noticeable.
I’ll admit that I found Rhys to be a slightly frustrating character. He is very, very unaware of when things are off. For a cop, he’s a piss poor investigator who can’t seem to see that things aren’t adding up might be more than a coincidence. To a certain extent, all characters are voluntarily in the dark about various twists, but I felt it most with Rhys. I sort of wish that the conspiracy members pulling the strings had been more subtle, or that Cavehill had indulged his characters to have more moments of competence in the story.
Finally, Cavehill made the decision to flag explicit sex scenes at their start and end using a beehive symbol, allowing readers to skip them. I like this choice as a way to appeal to a wider array of audience, but it did mean that these scenes couldn’t involve any important characterization moments, as readers skipping them would miss out on these moments. This, I think, robs intimate scenes of some of the power, as I think they are great vehicles for character arcs to manifest.
In Conclusion: a slightly clunky written, but very fun, story full of action and intrigue that has gay men interacting in non-romantic ways
Want More Reviews Like This? try my blog CosmicReads
Read if Looking For: asshole families, always another secret, tropey fantasy characters, overly-dependent relationships, notices at the start and end of sex scenes
Avoid if Looking For: polished writing, characters who see the plot coming at them, books free from fantasy racism (elves)
Elevator Pitch:
Rhys is a city guard relegated to paperwork, much to the disappointment of his noble family. He’s dating the mildly possessive leader of the demon-hunter Rangers, an organization he’s working to join. Ambrose is a half-elf thief desperately trying to buy a better life for his younger brother. The two are on a collision course when Ambrose robs a noble runesmith, accidentally causing the house to burn down and starting a manhunt for him. A manhunt Rune is placed in charge of.
What Worked for Me
The highlight of this book, and the reason I prioritized it, was that its author talked about how the story involved multiple queer men who weren’t dating each other. While there are couples, most of the time we got to see non-romantic interactions. Sadly, I can only think of a few other books like this, and I loved every second of it. Even though many of the characters didn’t get along (Ambrose and Caolan bickering was delightful). Just really fun dynamics all around. I think most of the characters ended up squarely in trope-laden territory. Rune in the Rubble doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it executes on fun ideas well.
Another big plus was the action scenes. There weren’t many in this book (seems like more coming in the sequel, hopefully!) but all were well done. Cavehill does a great job of making fights feel like the characters are up against overwhelming odds. Whether it’s the competent fighters trying to take down a man who can’t be killed, or a thief desperately fleeing a demon, I was always on the edge of my seat in these scenes.
The worldbuilding is simplistic, but engaging. Sometimes I thought it was a bit too simple (each of the four wards of the city was overly specialized in a single industry), but the revelations near the end of the book lay the groundwork for some really interesting strings for Cavehill to pull on. A running thread for this book is that it won’t be blowing anyone away with innovation, but it was a story I kept coming back to for the sort of warm fun adventure story I liked when I was a kid … except this is for adults.
What Didn’t Work For Me:
This book has a lot of the typical issues I’d associate with a debut self-published book. Those looking for polished writing will find frustrations here. It’s not uncommon for sentences to repeat words, include typos, or have an awkward flow. For me, I was enjoying the story enough that I could push past these issues, but it was noticeable.
I’ll admit that I found Rhys to be a slightly frustrating character. He is very, very unaware of when things are off. For a cop, he’s a piss poor investigator who can’t seem to see that things aren’t adding up might be more than a coincidence. To a certain extent, all characters are voluntarily in the dark about various twists, but I felt it most with Rhys. I sort of wish that the conspiracy members pulling the strings had been more subtle, or that Cavehill had indulged his characters to have more moments of competence in the story.
Finally, Cavehill made the decision to flag explicit sex scenes at their start and end using a beehive symbol, allowing readers to skip them. I like this choice as a way to appeal to a wider array of audience, but it did mean that these scenes couldn’t involve any important characterization moments, as readers skipping them would miss out on these moments. This, I think, robs intimate scenes of some of the power, as I think they are great vehicles for character arcs to manifest.
In Conclusion: a slightly clunky written, but very fun, story full of action and intrigue that has gay men interacting in non-romantic ways
Want More Reviews Like This? try my blog CosmicReads
June 15, 2025
One of my favourite genres is fantasy, and eventually overtime you begin to notice similarities and inspirations that sometimes make them all seem a little too close together and originality goes out the window. This doesn't mean they are a bad read, but just that it's hard to find something unique.
That being said; A Rune in the Rubble is such an interesting book that is an absolutely unique one of a kind little piece of treasure. An original storyline set in the bastion of Felgarth which keeps you on the edge of your seat always wanting more. I struggled to put this book down many times and read it within 3 and a bit days.
Being a first time author can be hard, but I highly encourage anyone to give this book a chance and be transported into a wild rollercoaster with Rhys and Ambrose that will keep you guessing, screaming, crying and laughing all at once.
There is also a great range of characters who support the main characters and bring this story to life in a beautiful way.
This book has a little bit of something for everyone whether you are a veteran fantasy reader or wanting to try something new. This book is like a breath of fresh air in a world where many fantasy books are following similar patterns.
I look forward to reading more from this author and I hope everyone else finds the same love for this story and characters in their heart as I did
That being said; A Rune in the Rubble is such an interesting book that is an absolutely unique one of a kind little piece of treasure. An original storyline set in the bastion of Felgarth which keeps you on the edge of your seat always wanting more. I struggled to put this book down many times and read it within 3 and a bit days.
Being a first time author can be hard, but I highly encourage anyone to give this book a chance and be transported into a wild rollercoaster with Rhys and Ambrose that will keep you guessing, screaming, crying and laughing all at once.
There is also a great range of characters who support the main characters and bring this story to life in a beautiful way.
This book has a little bit of something for everyone whether you are a veteran fantasy reader or wanting to try something new. This book is like a breath of fresh air in a world where many fantasy books are following similar patterns.
I look forward to reading more from this author and I hope everyone else finds the same love for this story and characters in their heart as I did
December 28, 2025
“A Rune in the Rubble” by Steven Cavehill is a fantastic debut and a really strong start to The God’s Bait Saga. Set in the dark, crumbling city of Felgarth (humanity’s last refuge against demonic forces) it immediately pulls you in with its rich worldbuilding and emotional depth. The story follows Rhys, an ambitious young guard, and Ambrose, a clever thief just trying to protect the people he loves, as their paths cross in dramatic and unexpected ways. For a first novel, Cavehill writes with real confidence, there’s a great mix of action, mystery, and heartfelt character moments that keep the story grounded and engaging. It takes a little time to get going while the world settles in, but once it does, it’s seriously hard to put down. Overall, A Rune in the Rubble is dark, immersive, and beautifully written, an amazing debut that proves Steven Cavehill is definitely an author to watch. I can’t wait to see where he takes things next in the series!
July 11, 2025
A thrilling debut with compelling characters and a unique take on queer fantasy. This book has excellent world building, high-stakes adventures, and swoon-worthy romance all wrapped up in a fairly lighthearted format that while interesting, doesn't bog you down with archaic language and difficult place names. If you're looking for high fantasy, this won't be it, but if you're looking for a page-turner that will keep you entertained, look no further.
What to expect:
Multiple POVs.
Spice, but clearly demarcated so it can be skipped.
More than one couple.
Magic and magical beings.
Adventure and intrigue.
Lots of side characters.
Spoilers for content warning ahead. This book does have a
What to expect:
Multiple POVs.
Spice, but clearly demarcated so it can be skipped.
More than one couple.
Magic and magical beings.
Adventure and intrigue.
Lots of side characters.
Spoilers for content warning ahead. This book does have a
June 13, 2025
Excellent book! You will not be disappointed in reading it. The plot is phenomenal, and you will quickly get sucked into its grasp. The characters are very distinct, funny, and you will come to greatly care for all of them. I was sad to see both . I really liked them. Also, let's not forget . I am very excited for future books. If they are not in sight, I will take it personally. Overall, good job!
November 2, 2025
Really fun fantasy book with fleshed out characters and an interesting magic system. Really builds up to a great climax - I look forward to the sequel. I also particularly appreciate the warnings of the more erotic scenes as I usually don't enjoy reading these scenes so knowing what I could skip without missing plot/lore was really useful!
October 11, 2025
A Rune in the Rubble pulled me in straight away. The world feels real, the characters are interesting and the story keeps moving without dragging. It’s got heart, mystery and a few great twists. Honestly just a really solid read and I’m already looking forward to the next one.
January 24, 2026
As a fan of Romantasy, this book ticked the boxes for me. A decent amount of world-building, characters that you root for and "honeyed" spicy scenes that don't feel gratuitous. Read it in a seating and was hoping for a little more, please make the next one longer!
July 4, 2025
The blend of fantasy action with m/m romance was excellent! Definitely an easy read to get into!
October 18, 2025
Fantastic read. Awesome fantasy story with hot steamy passion.
January 30, 2026
Great read!
This book is filled with an adventure that took many exciting turns. I didn’t expect the last 1/3 of the story. I am excited to to read the next book in the saga.
This book is filled with an adventure that took many exciting turns. I didn’t expect the last 1/3 of the story. I am excited to to read the next book in the saga.
December 19, 2025
I got 100 pages into this book and I couldn’t bear to read it any more. I don’t give shitty reviews typically but I genuinely dont know why this is so highly rated.
Spoilers:
There are 3 sex scenes within the first 50 pages… why? They were also very poorly written when it comes to spice in my opinion.
The scenes in which things occur seem rushed and not thought out as the story progresses. The whole first fight scene was done within a page, maybe two.
Spoilers:
There are 3 sex scenes within the first 50 pages… why? They were also very poorly written when it comes to spice in my opinion.
The scenes in which things occur seem rushed and not thought out as the story progresses. The whole first fight scene was done within a page, maybe two.
October 11, 2025
A fun fantasy romp full of charming characters, mystery and adventure! Had me hooked, a stellar debut novel, highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews