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Ruined in Blood
The bond is supposed to be a gift. Mine feels like a curse.
Most people get one mate. Fate gave me four.
Luke, the golden heir—disciplined, burdened by duty and driven by love.
Jace, the healer—devoted, tender, and haunted.
Max, the warrior—brutal, merciless, and fighting for more.
Eli, the outsider—cold, unreadable, and carrying a darkness he can’t outrun.
The moment our bonds awaken, my life is no longer my own. Every day, I play the role of the Seraph–the sacred woman they expect me to be. I should surrender. Be the good little mate they want.
But something is wrong in Middlesborough. The bond, The Gatherings, the power thrumming beneath my skin—I feel it calling to me, something dark, something ancient.
There’s a choice I don’t realize I’m making. A path I don’t know I’m walking.
Because fate didn’t just give me mates. It gave me something else.
And when the truth finally comes out, when blood is spilled and rituals are completed...
The thing waiting on the other side of the veil will answer me.
Most people get one mate. Fate gave me four.
Luke, the golden heir—disciplined, burdened by duty and driven by love.
Jace, the healer—devoted, tender, and haunted.
Max, the warrior—brutal, merciless, and fighting for more.
Eli, the outsider—cold, unreadable, and carrying a darkness he can’t outrun.
The moment our bonds awaken, my life is no longer my own. Every day, I play the role of the Seraph–the sacred woman they expect me to be. I should surrender. Be the good little mate they want.
But something is wrong in Middlesborough. The bond, The Gatherings, the power thrumming beneath my skin—I feel it calling to me, something dark, something ancient.
There’s a choice I don’t realize I’m making. A path I don’t know I’m walking.
Because fate didn’t just give me mates. It gave me something else.
And when the truth finally comes out, when blood is spilled and rituals are completed...
The thing waiting on the other side of the veil will answer me.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2025
21 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
S.B. Ellie
2 books11 followersS.B. Ellie writes books with blood under her nails. A Texas-based author with a taste for the dark and disturbing, she crafts twisted tales full of demons, cults, cursed bonds, and lovers who should probably run faster. Her genre playground includes dark romance, thrillers, horror, and why-choose with tropes that transform into obsession.
She plans to wander into new genres in the future—but don’t worry, the darkness is coming with her.
When she’s not writing, Ellie is either chasing her kids across the farm, floating in the pool with her husband, or mentally plotting her next fictional sin. She believes in beautiful prose, awful people, and happy endings that don’t always happen.
Don’t follow her into the woods. You won’t come back the same.
She plans to wander into new genres in the future—but don’t worry, the darkness is coming with her.
When she’s not writing, Ellie is either chasing her kids across the farm, floating in the pool with her husband, or mentally plotting her next fictional sin. She believes in beautiful prose, awful people, and happy endings that don’t always happen.
Don’t follow her into the woods. You won’t come back the same.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 8, 2025
I did finish this book but it was a struggle. This book took me wayyy more time than normal for me to get through.
The book was described as a cult thriller, mates obsessed, handmaids tale but fantasy with demon. To me, I didn't find any thriller aspects, cult aspects in the end. Besides the bond need, Luke was the only one really expressing even within himself interest in the FMC. The spice lacked except two scenes.
This just wasn't for me but may be for you!
The book was described as a cult thriller, mates obsessed, handmaids tale but fantasy with demon. To me, I didn't find any thriller aspects, cult aspects in the end. Besides the bond need, Luke was the only one really expressing even within himself interest in the FMC. The spice lacked except two scenes.
This just wasn't for me but may be for you!
December 25, 2025
This was the first why chose I ever read and DID NOT immediately put down. This book had me GRIPPING the sides of my kindle. The story is so enthralling and the exposition is beautiful. I didnt want to put the book down at all.
I cannot WAIT to see where the story goes from here, I am so nervous but excited to see the future for everyone.
I cannot WAIT to see where the story goes from here, I am so nervous but excited to see the future for everyone.
August 14, 2025
S.B. Ellie, thank you for letting me read your incredible story. This book was absolutely amazing and one wild ride!
This has become my favorite “why choose” for several reasons. One in particular was that Ellie captured each of the characters personalities so well. I grew to love EVERY SINGLE ONE of those men (even Rhy 🫣) because of the way that Ellie created them. There was so much depth to each character, that it made them feel so real and relatable. And their banter….love, love , love!
I loved the way that they were initially unsure about the situation they were fated into for a quick moment, then immediately clicked into the strongest, unbreakable bond that melted my heart! ♥️ The way they looked after Selene…swoon, but they way they even looked out for each other… oh my heart!
I was literally on the edge of my seat with each turn of the page, sweating from either the heat of the spice, haha, or the anticipation of what they were all going to be faced with next!
And that ending???? Aaaaaaaaa…I don’t know how I will survive without knowing what is going to happen to all of those men ( especially one in particular! 😮💨😳) I’m also bitting my nails wondering what Rhy’s next step may be!
Thank you again, and I am so excited to see where the next story takes us, and will read ANYTHING you write, so keep them coming!!!
This has become my favorite “why choose” for several reasons. One in particular was that Ellie captured each of the characters personalities so well. I grew to love EVERY SINGLE ONE of those men (even Rhy 🫣) because of the way that Ellie created them. There was so much depth to each character, that it made them feel so real and relatable. And their banter….love, love , love!
I loved the way that they were initially unsure about the situation they were fated into for a quick moment, then immediately clicked into the strongest, unbreakable bond that melted my heart! ♥️ The way they looked after Selene…swoon, but they way they even looked out for each other… oh my heart!
I was literally on the edge of my seat with each turn of the page, sweating from either the heat of the spice, haha, or the anticipation of what they were all going to be faced with next!
And that ending???? Aaaaaaaaa…I don’t know how I will survive without knowing what is going to happen to all of those men ( especially one in particular! 😮💨😳) I’m also bitting my nails wondering what Rhy’s next step may be!
Thank you again, and I am so excited to see where the next story takes us, and will read ANYTHING you write, so keep them coming!!!
October 9, 2025
S.B. Ellie did a wonderful job painting a story that’s dark, spicy, and suspenseful. Too often, I think MCs dive right into being able to handle just about anything, but Ruined in Blood depicted a realistic mental struggle, and enhancing the fact that characters don’t simply flip a switch and change overnight. Especially without the knowledge of what they’re truly facing. Seeing the weakness of the character, her vulnerability, was heart wrenching and beautiful at the same time, because I can only imagine how the character will grow and evolve over the next parts of the story. Ellie truly did amazing adding true depth to all her characters, not just the FMC.
Bonus - it’s a wild Why Choose, and each character in the relationship has a unique personality and characteristics, and I think that’s something that can be challenging to capture-Ellie did a great job there, too.
Her imagery was beautiful and the story was riveting. A literal “I CANNOT put this book down” story. My only complaint??? She made me fall in love with a character I “shouldn’t” love. A truly bad-to-the-bone character meant to be hated, and yet I’m in love. P.S. Ellie, please don’t kill him off. Like. Actually. Okay?? Thanks. (:
Bonus - it’s a wild Why Choose, and each character in the relationship has a unique personality and characteristics, and I think that’s something that can be challenging to capture-Ellie did a great job there, too.
Her imagery was beautiful and the story was riveting. A literal “I CANNOT put this book down” story. My only complaint??? She made me fall in love with a character I “shouldn’t” love. A truly bad-to-the-bone character meant to be hated, and yet I’m in love. P.S. Ellie, please don’t kill him off. Like. Actually. Okay?? Thanks. (:
August 24, 2025
This one is going to stick with me. I love a good RH, and I really liked how the author set this one up. I can't wait to see how they explore the bonds in the next book. Definitely seems like she set it up for a fun time 😏. I think Eli is my favorite of the guys. He's the mysterious outsider who seems to care way more than he let's on. I can't decide if I like the fmc, but I kept reminding myself she was drugged for a good portion of the book, so the way she acted/reacted wasn't always her. Definitely wanna see how things play out with the demon because whyyyy was I like "daddy?" when he showed up 🫠🫠. Can't wait to see more from this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2025
This book was an absolute ride from beginning to end. From blood rituals that reveal your bonded mate, to navigating the complexity of having four mates and becoming the chosen one, the twists never stop coming. The story takes an even wilder turn with the high priestess leading a poly bond to summon a demon—one who shatters blood bonds and seizes the Seraph for himself.
It was chaotic, thrilling, and completely unputdownable. S.B. Ellie has created such a dark, addictive world, and I truly thank her for the opportunity to read this book early. I cannot wait to see where the story goes next!
It was chaotic, thrilling, and completely unputdownable. S.B. Ellie has created such a dark, addictive world, and I truly thank her for the opportunity to read this book early. I cannot wait to see where the story goes next!
September 24, 2025
Ruined in Blood is hands down one of my favorite why choose reads. Ellie delivers a story that’s dark, addictive, and impossible to put down. The chemistry between characters is fiery, and the spice doesn’t just sizzle, it burns!! and the emotional stakes are just as intense. 🔥🔥
Please make sure to read the trigger warnings because this book does not shy away from anything, and that’s part of its dark, breathtaking beauty.😈
Thank you so much for making me part of your world, Ellie.. I love them all: the Seraph, the Little Master, the Healer, the Warrior, the Sentinel (a bit more), and yes, even the Demon (I’m already under his spell i guess 😅)
I also felt strangely satisfied with what happened to the Priestess and the crazy Master.. it just felt right.😌
Even after knowing it was cliffhanger, that ending completely wrecked me in the best way, and now I’m desperate to know what happens next. GIRL, you’ve left me starving for more!🫠
Please make sure to read the trigger warnings because this book does not shy away from anything, and that’s part of its dark, breathtaking beauty.😈
Thank you so much for making me part of your world, Ellie.. I love them all: the Seraph, the Little Master, the Healer, the Warrior, the Sentinel (a bit more), and yes, even the Demon (I’m already under his spell i guess 😅)
I also felt strangely satisfied with what happened to the Priestess and the crazy Master.. it just felt right.😌
Even after knowing it was cliffhanger, that ending completely wrecked me in the best way, and now I’m desperate to know what happens next. GIRL, you’ve left me starving for more!🫠
August 12, 2025
Just WOW! I was definitely intrigued by the world building and the spice was great! I could not put it down and I was pulled in very early on and stayed hooked!
My favorite character was definitely Eli and that ending chef's kiss!!
So excited that I could be one of the first to read it and I can't wait for the next one!
My favorite character was definitely Eli and that ending chef's kiss!!
So excited that I could be one of the first to read it and I can't wait for the next one!
August 11, 2025
First thank you so much for allowing to be part of your ARC team. This book was insane!!! I was hooked straight away and the twists and turns left me breathless! I couldn’t have predicted any part of this story and with the amazing world building, I was right there amongst the madness. And the cliffhanger??? 🤯 I am now impatiently waiting for the next book.
August 30, 2025
Ruined in Blood by S.B. Ellie is a dark and gripping multi-POV story that pulls you deep into its world from the very first page. The writing is beautifully done, weaving multiple perspectives together seamlessly and creating a layered, emotional experience. The pace starts strong, but the final third of the book takes off like a wildfire, dragging you into a whirlwind of intensity that keeps you clawing for more. right up until that jaw-dropping ending!!!
This book doesn’t shy away from spice, and it delivers plenty for readers who enjoy the heat. That being said, make sure to check your triggers beforehand, as Ellie doesn’t hold back in exploring the darker corners of her story.
A powerful, well-crafted read that leaves you both breathless and hungry for the next installment.
This book doesn’t shy away from spice, and it delivers plenty for readers who enjoy the heat. That being said, make sure to check your triggers beforehand, as Ellie doesn’t hold back in exploring the darker corners of her story.
A powerful, well-crafted read that leaves you both breathless and hungry for the next installment.
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October 1, 2025Dark: read warnings
Ooohhh..... Another amazing ARC! Be sure to check the trigger warnings list because this Dark Why Choose is actually dark. I love how each of the men are very different yet complement each other. Each page had me waiting for the next.
Ooohhh..... Another amazing ARC! Be sure to check the trigger warnings list because this Dark Why Choose is actually dark. I love how each of the men are very different yet complement each other. Each page had me waiting for the next.
September 22, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Ruined in Blood, a book I’ve been anticipating for months since I first started following S.B. Ellie on TikTok. I usually take my time with books, yet I devoured this in a day and a half because it was that compelling.
First, check the trigger warnings before diving in. Ellie doesn’t just touch on difficult topics; she embraces them fully. What’s remarkable is how she frames and integrates these elements, making the story both gripping and thought-provoking.
The book is described as "Why Choose", but Ellie’s execution sets it apart. She balances five distinct characters, weaving between their POVs and developing their personalities in ways that kept me invested in each of them from start to finish.
Calling this simply a "Why Choose" story doesn’t capture its depth. Ellie builds a narrative that engaged me immediately, layering tension until giving me an ending that lingered with me for days. Yes, it ends on a cliffhanger, but it’s done so skillfully that the conclusion feels both satisfying and leaving me wanting more.
I don’t hand out five-star ratings lightly, but S.B. Ellie earned every one.
First, check the trigger warnings before diving in. Ellie doesn’t just touch on difficult topics; she embraces them fully. What’s remarkable is how she frames and integrates these elements, making the story both gripping and thought-provoking.
The book is described as "Why Choose", but Ellie’s execution sets it apart. She balances five distinct characters, weaving between their POVs and developing their personalities in ways that kept me invested in each of them from start to finish.
Calling this simply a "Why Choose" story doesn’t capture its depth. Ellie builds a narrative that engaged me immediately, layering tension until giving me an ending that lingered with me for days. Yes, it ends on a cliffhanger, but it’s done so skillfully that the conclusion feels both satisfying and leaving me wanting more.
I don’t hand out five-star ratings lightly, but S.B. Ellie earned every one.
August 4, 2025
This is one of those books you can't put down. You pick it up and you just have to let the rest of your life go because this book is the only thing that matters anymore. Prepare to "Sacrifice" your free-time. This is your life now. From the beginning to end you are thrown into suspense, tension, and DEMONS. This was such an amazing read. I'm a writer and I couldn't write while reading this because it was just that good.
I am so proud of you for writing this. Like seriously. The world needed this and you served it on an alter covered in blood. The writing style is gorgeous, angsty, intense, and the ITALICS. Placed perfectly. I was literally holding my breath through the majority of the book. This author has now become my favorite why choose author and I BETTER GET MORE I STG.
I'm a Max girlie through and through and you can't change my mind. Why choose... but I am CHOOSING BECAUSE HE IS MY SWEET BABY WARRIOR WHO JUST NEEDS A HUG.
I am so proud of you for writing this. Like seriously. The world needed this and you served it on an alter covered in blood. The writing style is gorgeous, angsty, intense, and the ITALICS. Placed perfectly. I was literally holding my breath through the majority of the book. This author has now become my favorite why choose author and I BETTER GET MORE I STG.
I'm a Max girlie through and through and you can't change my mind. Why choose... but I am CHOOSING BECAUSE HE IS MY SWEET BABY WARRIOR WHO JUST NEEDS A HUG.
August 31, 2025
I loved how Ruined in Blood takes a trope we’ve seen before (the fated mates bond) and twists it into something darker and more unsettling. Instead of feeling blessed, the heroine feels trapped, and that’s such a refreshing, realistic take. I could feel her inner conflict in every decision she made torn between surrendering to her role as the Seraph and fighting for her autonomy. What impressed me most was how S.B. Ellie didn’t make the four mates interchangeable. Luke’s loyalty, Jace’s broken heart, Max’s rage, and Eli’s shadows, each of them pulled me in a different emotional direction. The tension isn’t just sexual, it’s existential. The questions about fate, choice, and power run deep. By the time the rituals started and the truth about the ancient force began unraveling, I was holding my breath. The ending was brutal in the best way, it leaves you raw, wanting, and questioning what comes next.
August 23, 2025
This book is by far one of my absolute favorites! I couldn't put the book down. From the moment we meet the FMC to the ending, I was on the edge of my seat. A why choose thats definitely one for the books! I can't wait to order a physical copy so I can show my trophy off to everyone.
The world building is top tier! You feel like you're in the book. The emotions bleed through the page.
Thank you, Ellie for letting be a part of this journey! I can't wait to see what happens next!
The world building is top tier! You feel like you're in the book. The emotions bleed through the page.
Thank you, Ellie for letting be a part of this journey! I can't wait to see what happens next!
October 18, 2025
I had the honor of being asked to be a beta reader for this book and let me tell you, I could not put it down! This book consumed my life, and is has continued to since I read it.
This book will suck you in, twist and turn you around in the chaos and spit you back out. Definitely check your trigger warnings and take them seriously! This book is not for the faint of heart!
I'm waiting for the second book! I need to know what happens.
This book will suck you in, twist and turn you around in the chaos and spit you back out. Definitely check your trigger warnings and take them seriously! This book is not for the faint of heart!
I'm waiting for the second book! I need to know what happens.
September 17, 2025
Wow. This book is an exhilarating thriller that haunts you to your core. The writer is descriptive and has SPOT ON timing to deliver a gripping story! I was hooked IMMEDIATELY. I highly recommend you read your triggers, as the descriptions really put you in the scene. I could see it happening in my head, and I credit the writer’s unique talent to capture the emotions and details of what’s happening so well.
The spice is EXTRA SPICY! And it picks up RIGHT AWAY! Each character has such distinct personalities and ARCs that you can tell who’s reading without the chapter heading. I loved this book, it was so well written! I can’t believe this is a debut! Ellie’s talent drips from this book, and I cannot recommend it enough. If you love Why Choose and Thrillers, this combination swirls in a well-balanced mix.
I can’t give this book enough stars…. not enough to do it justice. If you want to be horrified and intrigued…. Kicking your feet and turning beet red… if you want to ponder an ending angry and begging for more than Ruined in Blood is 1000000% for you. I finished the book last night and literally woke up angry about this ending… in a good way, but still!
I wish I could read it for the first time all over again. Can’t get over it. The ending is devilishly evil, fitting for a book about a demon. I will be anxiously awaiting book two…. If the anticipation doesn’t do me in first!
The spice is EXTRA SPICY! And it picks up RIGHT AWAY! Each character has such distinct personalities and ARCs that you can tell who’s reading without the chapter heading. I loved this book, it was so well written! I can’t believe this is a debut! Ellie’s talent drips from this book, and I cannot recommend it enough. If you love Why Choose and Thrillers, this combination swirls in a well-balanced mix.
I can’t give this book enough stars…. not enough to do it justice. If you want to be horrified and intrigued…. Kicking your feet and turning beet red… if you want to ponder an ending angry and begging for more than Ruined in Blood is 1000000% for you. I finished the book last night and literally woke up angry about this ending… in a good way, but still!
I wish I could read it for the first time all over again. Can’t get over it. The ending is devilishly evil, fitting for a book about a demon. I will be anxiously awaiting book two…. If the anticipation doesn’t do me in first!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews