Ruin Me

by Kelsie Rae

I didn’t steal her money.
I just refused to give it back.

I built my empire on controL.
My fists in the ring. My brothers at my back. And
my rules that keep the vultures from circling.

Then, Violet Reeves demands I return the money
her father handed over after losing a bet.

Trouble is, I’m not running a charity, so I tell her no...
And gain an enemy in the process.
All it takes is one exception and my business fails.

However, the last thing I expect is to see Violet participate in an underground tournament in hopes
of earning back her money.

And the more she inserts herself into my world,
the more I want to keep her here.

Even if she hates me for it.

Add in the new contender whose sights are set
on Violet and my business?

Yeah, we have a problem.

Here’s the thing.
I can handle my enemies, but when they want Violet?
The one woman who hates me and can bring me to my knees?

It could ruin me and everything my brothers and
I have built on this campus. All I know is this.
If Violet’s going to fall, it won’t be without me
dragging the monsters down first.

But at what cost?

Genres: Enemies To Lovers, Romance, College, Found Family, Dark Romance, College Romance, Fighters

548 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 24, 2026

About the author

Kelsie is a sucker for a love story with all the feels. When she's not chasing words for her next book, you will probably find her reading or, more likely, hanging out with her husband and playing with her three kiddos who love to drive her crazy.

She adores photography, baking, her yorkie, Bob, and her devon rex, Mara. And now that she's actively pursuing her writing dreams, she's set her sights on someday finding the self-discipline to not binge-watch an entire series on Netflix in one sitting.

Reviews

[Shannon Farley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to start off by saying Kelsie Rae is my most read author. I have read over 19 of her books and have been blown away every time!  The way she captures you with her fun, edgy writing and makes you fall in love with all of her characters and their story is something I haven't experienced with many other authors. If you have not read one of her books I highly recommend picking up her *Don't Let Me*, *The Little Things*, or *Wrecked Roommates* series.  If you're like me, once you read one, you'll be sucked down the rabbit hole of all things Kelsie Rae on a Book Binge Fest! 😉

⭐⭐⭐.25
🌶️🌶️

It was so fun to be back in a new series with new characters. I flew through the first half of this like it was my favorite drink! The character dynamic between our shy, outcast but still mentally tough FMC and the mysterious, cocky, King of Harden Heights MMC was giving me all the feels! The Haunted House chapter.......!! So good! And in true Kelsie Rae fashion, the side characters were also so good if not better. I can't wait to see where their story's go in the next books. 

After about the 50% mark I felt like the romance almost escalated to quickly. It didn't seem to have the same suspense and build that the first half of the book was giving. It seemed like I missed the falling for each other part of the relationship? Almost too easy breezy. There was also some time jumping, which I am not a fan of so it could have been just a me problem. 

However I did like the plot and the world being built in the series, and I can't wait to see whose story we get next! ❤️

[Payton Caudillo · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC REVIEW**
4.5 ⭐️

What a way to kick off a new Kelsie Rae series. The banter had me giggling nonstop, and the tension and mystery woven through it made it impossible to put down.

Jagger and Violet are total opposites, but they fit together so perfectly. Jagger might look like the classic bad boy, but underneath he’s a complete sweetheart who’d do anything for his girl. And Violet was such a strong FMC who’s been through so much. She deserves every bit of happiness in the world. They were so protective and soft with each other, it was adorable.

I was hooked from page one, didn’t want to stop reading, and honestly didn’t want it to end. I’m already obsessed with the Harden boys and can’t wait for the rest of the series!

[Yazmin Stone 🤍 · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️ ARC Review : Violet and Jagger are my absolute babies and i will accept zero criticism on their story, i love them so much!!! Think Boys of tommen mixed with the dark lanes series but make it unique, yeah that pretty much sums up this story!! I knew from the first few chapters that this was going to be a 5 star read for me, the writing gripped me instantly and i fell in love with the characters so quickly that all i wanted to do was read constantly. I love Violet so much she is such a strong FMC and whilst shes been through hell and back she still doesn’t take sh*t from anyone and it’s so admirable, and Jagger Harden oh. My. God. That man is every girls dream, he’s stupidly hot, he’s a fighter, stupidly rich, gives off i hate everyone vibes but deep down is the most loving loyal guy you will meet!! Tell me that is not perfection! I adore the found family in this and how we get to see a glimpse into Jaggers brothers’s lives and Violets friends lives as a teaser for there books to come. I must say im very exited for Ford & June’s book theres something about them that has me so intrigued and i do just love Ford i think he’s absolutely hilarious. The way Kelsie added in the deeper background topics into this gave the book so much more depth and made you have that much more of an emotional connection to the characters it was insane. I do need to go back and read Oliver & Dylans story because after seeing what we have of them i need to know more!!!

[Krista Bukoskey · Rating 5 out of 5]

(ARC Review)
What a great start to the new series! There is a little enemies to lovers vibe going on mixed with who did this to you and he fell first!
Jagger is the perfect amount of bad boy with a mushy core.

Violet is looking for a fresh start, and from the wrong side of the tracks.

I still hate daddy Reeves!

I absolutely loved their love story and the character development! I also loved their little Easter eggs that were dropped from previous series.
I cannot wait to see what June and Ford have in store for us, I am already loving their dynamic!

[Vaar · Rating 5 out of 5]

where should I start? Itssss soo good. I love the new city in Harden Heights, and the drift! Love Violet and Jagger and how we get introduced to them and the rest of the Harden brothers. The tension and the slow burn so hotttt. And the Harden night🔥don’t get me started, how I love them♥️

What an amazing start in a new series. All I want is to devourer the rest of the series!

I must say right now Ford and Roman is my favorite characters. I’m simping hard for Fordddd♥️ I can’t wait to see their story unfold

Its even better the second time!

[Kari Lake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This ALC from Dark Star Audio has a fabulous cast of narrators including Ava Monroe, Zach Lamar Hoffman, Vanessa Moyen, Ryan Pierson, Dani Soleil, E.M. Wylde, Cary Hite, and Skye Lark. I've only previously listened to Vanessa and Dani. This entire cast was amazing!

Ruin Me is book 1 in Kelsie Rae's new series Harden Heights, and I absolutely cannot wait for the series to continue.

Violet lives in the Drift, with her useless excuse of a dad, working and going to school in order to get out of the Drift. Jagger is a Harden who lives in Harden Heights. Two people from the opposite sides of town. Violet's dad steals her money and looses it in a bet with the Hardens. Violet attempts to get it back and ends up being drawn into Jagger's world.

There is a lot happening in this book, but the characters and storyline are so well written, that it doesn't feel like an almost 600 page book. Kelsie really draws you in with her characters and keeps you hooked until the end.

Definitely check out the audiobook!

[Bri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK

It took me a bit to get into this story but once I did I enjoyed the characters. I think the tension between Violet and Jagger was done well and it had me rooting for them to make it work. I do think there were times that the change from "I hate you" to "I want you" happened a little too quickly but not in a way that made me hate them. I will also say, the ending felt very rushed and maybe it's just because I'm a sucker for found familyspoiler but that entire shocker just felt so out of place since it didn't get enough attention. It was like a bomb was dropped on the character...and then nothing. Not until the very end of the book where we got a tiny glimpse into how that ends up. I think that could have been such an interesting storyline if it got more attention.

Overall, I didn't love it but I didn't hate it. It did leave me curious for more so I'll most likely come back to the series.

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelsie Rae never disappoints me

[Olivia ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first Kelsie Rae book and I looooooved it!! I shipped Violet and Jagger from the first moment they met! I absolutely loved how he was all about her from the start and tried everything he could to make her life better! Also thankful there was no third-act breakup because I don't think I could have handled that! I cannot wait until book two! 😍 I want to give a quick thank you to Kelsie Rae for sending me this arc copy!

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC Review**
Ruin Me (Harden Height Book 1) by Kelsie Rae
Release Date: March 24th

I have read and loved many Kelsie Rae series, so I was so excited for this new series to begin, and I was not disappointed!

Jagger and Violet comes from completely different worlds. Jagger is Harden Heights royalty while Violet lives on the wrong side of town in "The Drift". Violet comes from nothing, while Jagger's family has everything.

When Violet's deadbeat "sperm donor" steals and loses her life's savings in yet another bad gambling wager, she must convince the Harden brothers to give her back her money or she can kiss her ticket out of her house in The Drift goodbye!

Violet is stubborn and resilient, and her backbone catches the attention and grudging respect of the eldest Harden brother, Jagger, even if he can't return her money.

We learn about the Harden Brothers' undercover ventures-- sports betting, MMA fighting, Harden Nights, drag racing, etc.-- and a bit about their complicated family dynamic. Each of the brothers has their own distinct personality and role in the family business, and I can't wait to read more about all of them!

Jagger is a dark and broody playboy until Violet, his "Little Thief", steals all of his interest. For being a big bad fighter, Jagger is such a softie for Violet. The boy is protective as hell and down bad! We get so many great "who hurt you" moments and I love a man who will avenge his woman!

There's a lot going on in the book, but I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll leave it at this:
I am loving the new world of Harden Heights and the connections to Lockwood Heights and the rest of the Kelsie Rae Universe. The tension and slow burn had me captivated. I loved Violet and Jagger, and can't wait to get more from Violet's besties and the rest of the Hardens.

Check your trigger warnings, because the Harden Heights world is a little darker than you might think!

4.75⭐(round to 5) 2🌶️

I read an advanced copy of this book, and this is my honest review. Thanks so much to Kelsie Rae & Team KR for the ARC!

[Amanda Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do I even start… this was so good.

Harden Heights pulled me in fast. The city, the drift, the atmosphere… it all feels alive. I loved how we’re introduced to Violet and Jagger, then gradually brought into the world of the Harden brothers. The tension and slow burn are done exceptionally well and keep you fully invested from start to finish.

And Harden Night… I could say a lot, but I won’t spoil it. Just know it delivers.

This is a strong start to a new series, and I already want the rest of it.

Ford and Roman have my full attention. Ford especially. I’m already looking forward to seeing where their stories go.

Be sure to check trigger warnings. This world is darker than it first appears, with a lot happening beneath the surface. The story doesn’t hand everything to you, which makes it even more engaging.

The dynamic between the elites and the “not so elites” gives a Romeo and Juliet feel, with hints of a deeper rivalry that I expect will play a bigger role as the series continues.

Violet’s family adds another layer to the story. There are clear generational issues, tension, and underlying complexities that strengthen her character and motivations.

The Harden games were a standout element. They felt unique and kept me on edge.

Kelsie Rae delivers what she does best here. Strong tension, a well-paced slow burn, a satisfying HEA, and just enough spice to balance it all out.

I’m already invested in multiple side characters, both good and bad, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this world continues to unfold.

[rickies.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelsie Rae is bacckk baby. - SHE IS BACK- & the new Harden Heights series - book one - Ruin Me is here & ready for you to devour!! (Just like I did)

It’s known all over that there are two sides to the town…”the drift” where people with a lower income reside, and then there’s Harden Heights. Jagger Harden & his brothers rule that side of the tracks. They are taking bets, hosting Harden nights and collecting on them trying to get out from under their father’s thumb.

When Violet shows up, demanding she’s gets the money back that her father bet that was hers.. except, a bets a bet to the brothers. They don’t care whose money it is.

When Jagger catches Violet snooping trying to find her money hidden in one of the rooms neither of them can fight the pull they have to one another. He wants to take care of her, & she wants to prove that she doesn’t need anyone.

This book has everything. It sets the stage for the rest of the series. I really enjoyed it!! I’m so thankful for the chance to read this book early.. and so ready to be back in my K.RAE ERA.

[JN Pennington]

This one is hard to rate so I’m just going to review.
I love Kelsie Rae but this was probably my least favorite I’ve read (despite Jagger being a fave MMC of hers). This book was just way too long, and so much of that was because there was SO MUCH interiority. There were sections where I swear there was two minutes of inner diatribe in between lines of dialogue (I was listening on 1.5x). It was both hard to follow dialogue, and also boring. And then even the dialogue was very slow-paced, especially in convos that weren’t even that important. It was frustrating to get through. If the book had been paced better (and so much shorter) I would have really enjoyed it!

Also, every book I’ve read by Kelsie Rae has been an interconnected standalone, so wasn’t a fan of seeing “to be continued” at the end without any warning. It was pretty wrapped up in the end relationship wise, but the story itself definitely felt unfinished.

[Kayrlee · Rating 3 out of 5]

The way my jaw dropped when I got to “to be continued”!!

I was very invested in the story, to the point of not even being aware I was reaching the end. So it was a not-so-great surprise that it ended when it did.
I feel like it was an unfinished story. Even with being the starter of a series, it felt like half a book.
Other than that, I was really enjoying all the plot lines.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review:
Kelsie did it again! I love the way she tells a story and this was no different. It was a different town and branched out of her usual hockey romance genre, but it still had that her usual dynamics with her characters.
I can't tell you how excited I was that our FMC was a REEVES! Being that Oliver is one of my favorite Kelsie MMCs I was so excited to see a familiar name. Even though the family connection was not known to the characters until the end, I just ate up the little easter egg!
Also can we talk about Jagger? We love a big strong broody man that just absolutely melts for our FMC and that his this Harden brother to the core. Without the hockey team relationships in this book, I enjoyed having the brothers to fill that "friendship void" for the MMC.
I can't wait to see where the story goes with Gus, and I cannot wait to read about he rest of the brothers coming up next!

[Bethany Rupard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know what to say about this book except it’s put me in a slump already.

Kelsie, ma’am, how do you write these characters the way you do?!? Making us fall in love and making us wait for the next book.

You have Jagger who’s the oldest Harden brother. He’s protective to a fault and doesn’t care what others think. Until his little thief comes along. He becomes a big softie for her, yet you come near her?? ☠️

[Ash Dawson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

First off, I’m so excited that a new Kelsie Rae series is kicking off!

GAME NIGHT IS BACKKKKKKKKK & more intense than ever.

Jag likes to act like he’s a tough guy from Harden Heights, but he’s a softie for his girl, Violet! He literally protects her at every turn. This book starts off as enemies but quickly turn into more.

Violet, although a tiny thing, is in her man’s corner 100% of the time. She keeps him calm, cool and collected. She is his peace. Swoon.

WHAT TO EXPECT:
Hurt/comfort
Enemies to lovers
Rich/poor
Touch her & die

[Sydney Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

I have been waiting for this book for so long, and it NOT disappoint. Ever since I finished the little things series I have been craving more Kelsie Rae and I have been so excited for this series to be released.

Jagger and Violet’s relationship grew so much in this book and I absolutely adore when they j hate each other but “there is just something about her” that draws him in. I will admit that some of the timelines kind of confused me with how it related to the little things and I didn’t realize how much time had passed between series because I forgot about Rory…

The absolute lines that Jagger delivered this book were insane and I totally understand why Violet fell for him. The way he cared about her from the beginning and the way he took care of her when it was needed the most was adorable.

I will say there is a heavy TW for parent/kid DV so just keep in mind because it’s very on page.

I am sad that I have to wait until July for the next book, but I am literally so excited to. I have my predictions about who the other two books will be about but maybe I’m wrong who knows…

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Favourite quotes out of context:

“You really think I’m going to let you go”

“Who. Hurt. You.”

“Doesn’t she get it by now? I’m in this girls corner no matter what. Even if it kills me.”

“Who did this to you?” “Doesn’t matter” “Who did this to you, Vi”

[Kammie Dickerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a long time reader/listener to Kelsie Rae’s books and I just love her story telling more and more each time! Ruin Me had the right amount of mystery, tension, and non-stop banter. I absolutely loved the FMC, Miss Violet, with her spitfire attitude, stubbornness, and tenacity for wanting a better life for herself. Then there’s Jagger, aka Mr grumpy and broody, but underneath a tender hearted teddy bear! Not only is this man a loyal sibling, he is also highly intelligent and honorable. Together Violet and Jagger are each other’s equal in every way and aren’t afraid to test each other’s limits. I loved their back and forth banter. I had so many laugh out loud moments! This was a duet multicast narration by Ava Monroe, Zach Lazar Hoffman, Vanessa Moyen, Ryan Pierson, Dani Soleil, E.M. Wylde, Cary Hite, and Skye Lark. The cast was full of fresh and new voices that I look forward to hearing more of in the future. Each narrator portrayed their character spot on! Thank you Kelsie Rae for this fantastic story! I can’t wait for the rest of the series!!!!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

She’s done it again—I absolutely adored this book and already can’t wait for the next one.

From the very beginning, I found myself falling in love with each character and their unique personalities. There’s a strong sense of found family developing, which is something I always love in a series, and this book delivers it beautifully.

Jagger and Violet completely stole my heart. Watching Violet slowly grow into her confidence throughout the story was so satisfying, while Jagger’s tough exterior softening—just a little—made their dynamic even more compelling. And those “touch her and die” vibes from Jagger? Absolutely chef’s kiss.

I also loved seeing characters from other series make appearances. Interconnected worlds always add an extra layer of excitement, and it made the story feel even richer.

That ending, though… it left me with so many questions and a serious need for more. All I can say is I’m counting down the days until the next book!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️
2🌶️

🥊 Hate to love
🥊 Hurt/comfort
🥊 Billionaire heir x struggling FMC
🥊 MMA fighter MMC
🥊 Touch her and die

I love anything by Kelsie and this one didn’t disappoint! It was emotional and raw. Jagger and Violet were absolutely made for each other and helped build each other up. Jagger fell hard and fast for Violet and was always there for her when she needed him even when they weren’t friendly with each other. Violet had a rough life growing up, but she was so strong and resilient. She doesn’t let people in easily, but she let Jagger in pretty quickly and didn’t let him leave. I loved the banter between all of the characters and I enjoyed getting to know Jagger’s brothers more. I definitely was able to figure out who the next books in the series would be about and who they were coupled with so I’m definitely excited for that!

[Abbie Bradsher · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC REVIEW**

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ruin Me is book one of Kelsie’s new series “Harden Heights”! Ruin Me captures Jagger and Violets love story unravel. This is hands down by far one of the best Enemies to Lover books I have ever read. You have this amazing couple come from opposite sides of the tracks and come together and realize they may not be quite so different than they think. This is a must read, you may hear familiar names and particular “parties”… ;). Kelsie did another AMAZING job writing this masterpiece! I cannot wait for the next one ❤️

[Courtney Reads Smut · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing! My first book from this author and I am looking for more. My heart was completely torn for Violet. The family back story for both Violet and Jagger is gut wrenching. The banter with all the characters was great. The story had a wonderful flow between Violet and Jagger, and even though this book is 500+ pages I still wanted to sit with these characters longer.

🖤 College
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤 Touch her & ☠️
🖤 Ab*sed FMC
🎧 17:30 FULL CAST - Ava Monroe, Zach Lazar Hoffman, Vanessa Moyen, Ryan Pierson, Dani Soleil, E.M. Wylde, Cary Hite, & Skye Lark
🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Kelsye Kurtiak-Cannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

She’s done it again! Suspense, emotion, tension, and borderline obsession, I loved every minute of it. The love between Violet and Jagger was so captivating, and you can’t go wrong with a man that would do ANYTHING to protect the people he loves, especially his girl. A great way to start a new series!

“Doesn’t she get it, by now? I’m in this girls corner no matter what. Even if it kills me.”

“It’s only a house. But you? You’re my home.”

[Cassie Cummings · Rating 5 out of 5]

I basically love anything Kelsie Rae writes and this was no exception. I was a little leery with this being the first book in a new series - I loved the Little things series and was sad to see that one wrap up, but Kelsie did not disappoint. She has a way of writing a story at the perfect pace, not too much drama, and just enough twists and turns to keep you on your toes while basically swooning the entire time. If you are looking for a romance author, look no further. Excited to see where the next books in this series go.

[Kenzie Baird · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jagger and Violet had me hooked from the start! The entire time reading, I couldn’t put it down but also didn’t want it to end! Learning about Violet and Jagger was fun. Violet is so stubborn and Jagger will do anything for her! Overall a great story! I’m definitely excited to read the rest of the series! The second epilogue had me in tears!!

[Ashley Camren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story!

Ruin me by Kelsie Rae was so good! I’m really going to like this series. I was fortunate enough to receive an ALC of the audiobook, and it was fantastic! I strongly recommend both the book and the audiobook.

[Rio Musolff · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Reader : AMAZING JOB! Sad that it’s over but can’t wait till the next book.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good, but the MMC should probably see a dentist soon for all of the angry teeth clenching he does... like relax. Solid 3.5!

[Molly Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelsie Rae does it again. This woman cannot disappoint me. If anything she’s setting up my husband for failure because he doesn’t kiss my bruises better. It can always be nerve wracking for an author to dive in to a new series and creating new characters, but she did such an incredible job still tying in the little things character while also making this new city its own. I cannot wait to get the rest of this series over the next year and keep reading about the Harden siblings 🩵