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A Wing to Break: Ruin's End Volume One
Ruin isn't where a story ends... It's where the obsession begins.
Sable: I've spent my whole damn life doing things the right way. Good daughter. Good mom. Good at pretending I'm not unraveling. I run my own furniture restoration shop, keep my head down, and never, ever make a scene—even when my ex's final gift to me is a stalker who's gotten way too close to ruining what's left of my restraint. I don't know how to fight someone like her. But I've just met a man who might.
Hex: She walks into my bar like she doesn't belong-perfect posture, perfect mouth, trying too hard not to fall apart. I've seen plenty of beautiful women, but none like Sable. None of them ever looked at me like I was the safest option in the room. She's not built for my world—an ex-fighter who leaves the kind of marks bad people don't come back from. But Sable makes me want to clean the blood off my knuckles for good. Too bad the past doesn't like to stay buried... and old enemies don't like when I play house.
A Wing to Break (Ruin's End Vol. One) is a gritty, heat-soaked dark romantic comedy about what happens when a woman who's always followed the rules meets the one man who makes her want to break every one of them.
Sable: I've spent my whole damn life doing things the right way. Good daughter. Good mom. Good at pretending I'm not unraveling. I run my own furniture restoration shop, keep my head down, and never, ever make a scene—even when my ex's final gift to me is a stalker who's gotten way too close to ruining what's left of my restraint. I don't know how to fight someone like her. But I've just met a man who might.
Hex: She walks into my bar like she doesn't belong-perfect posture, perfect mouth, trying too hard not to fall apart. I've seen plenty of beautiful women, but none like Sable. None of them ever looked at me like I was the safest option in the room. She's not built for my world—an ex-fighter who leaves the kind of marks bad people don't come back from. But Sable makes me want to clean the blood off my knuckles for good. Too bad the past doesn't like to stay buried... and old enemies don't like when I play house.
A Wing to Break (Ruin's End Vol. One) is a gritty, heat-soaked dark romantic comedy about what happens when a woman who's always followed the rules meets the one man who makes her want to break every one of them.
- GenresSuspenseDark Romance
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2026
12 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Calla Tate
3 books27 followersCalla Tate (pen name) writes dark romance with sharp story telling and a wicked sense of humor. When she's not making her characters fall hard, she's likely laughing at the ridiculous dialogue she crafts. If you like your love stories with a side of danger, explosive chemistry, and irresistible banter, you're in the right place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
September 23, 2025
Wow! How refreshing of a romance was this?! The story of Sable is one that I think a lot of women and mothers will be able to connect to. I also think anyone who has had to pivot in their lives or romantic relationships will be able to see themselves in Sable and her journey.
Hex is so yummy. He’s vulnerable but strong. He’s a man who knows what he wants and I’m completely here for it. I love that readers get to see him taking care of a woman, in a way that many women want to be taken care of. Not just flowers and good morning texts.
I had moments of laughter and even some tears while reading this book. Calla Tate thank you for sharing this story and letting me have the opportunity to read it. I can’t wait to see where the series goes.
Hex is so yummy. He’s vulnerable but strong. He’s a man who knows what he wants and I’m completely here for it. I love that readers get to see him taking care of a woman, in a way that many women want to be taken care of. Not just flowers and good morning texts.
I had moments of laughter and even some tears while reading this book. Calla Tate thank you for sharing this story and letting me have the opportunity to read it. I can’t wait to see where the series goes.
September 22, 2025
This book was a breath of fresh air as far as a lot of the typical romance/ dark romance tropes went! Miscommunication? never heard of her.
I was absolutely obsessed with Hex, too! It felt like Calla just plucked him out of my head.
Would recommend for fans of Navessa Allen and Lights Out!
I was absolutely obsessed with Hex, too! It felt like Calla just plucked him out of my head.
Would recommend for fans of Navessa Allen and Lights Out!
January 9, 2026
✨🖤 ARC Review🖤✨
A Wing to Break by Calla Tate
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🔪🔪🔪
First and foremost, I want to thank Calla Tate for gifting me an e-arc of A Wing to Break and allowing me to read this ahead of release. This review is voluntary and all opinions are honest and my own.
Okay, stop. The way I was instantly intrigued by this book and needed to read it. And boy did this not disappoint, I ate this book up.
Anyone who has been in a toxic relationship and learning or relearning to love themselves after leaving will easily relate to Sable. Her best friend, Demi, may easily be my spirit animal because she is basically a feral and unhinged raccoon and I was living for her commentary.
Hex - Hector Xavier Alvarez - is almost everything you’re looking for in a dark romance MMC: protective, witty, mildly obsessed/possessive.
The emotional depth both characters go through is a breath of fresh air and I love both of them immensely.
A Wing to Break by Calla Tate
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🔪🔪🔪
First and foremost, I want to thank Calla Tate for gifting me an e-arc of A Wing to Break and allowing me to read this ahead of release. This review is voluntary and all opinions are honest and my own.
Okay, stop. The way I was instantly intrigued by this book and needed to read it. And boy did this not disappoint, I ate this book up.
Anyone who has been in a toxic relationship and learning or relearning to love themselves after leaving will easily relate to Sable. Her best friend, Demi, may easily be my spirit animal because she is basically a feral and unhinged raccoon and I was living for her commentary.
Hex - Hector Xavier Alvarez - is almost everything you’re looking for in a dark romance MMC: protective, witty, mildly obsessed/possessive.
The emotional depth both characters go through is a breath of fresh air and I love both of them immensely.
November 2, 2025
If you liked the comedic dark romance in Lights Out and the 30+ divorced single motherhood rep in Chasing Petals, you will most definitely like A Wing to Break by Calla Tate. It contains darker themes, so please check your trigger warnings where appropriate, but the comedy, BFF/sidekick banter, found family, single motherhood, and reverse age gap romance make it stand out as unique in the rapidly growing genre of dark romance. 🖤
I honestly haven't laughed this much since I read Lights Out. I haven't related so hard to a FMC's position in life since Chasing Petals. I haven't been this excited for the sequel and subsequent books since the Legacy of Gods series. Everything about the world of Ruins End makes me want to stay there and never come up for air.
Hex Alvarez, you are THE MAN! Can we clone him? Please??? 🥵 He may be eight years younger (not much of an age gap if you ask me) and VERY ROUGH around the edges, but he is very easy on the eyes and knows how to take care of his own without being told to do so. He's just the kind of guy Sable needs in order to function as a woman again, instead of a single mom, doing it all, running her own business, and dealing with a serious stalker issue. (And no, this isn't the god kind of stalking we like to read in dark romance books. It's just all-around BAD!)
I appreciate the pacing of this story the most; while it's obvious Hex falls first and Sable falls harder, they are both cautious, understandably so. Nothing has ever really worked out for these two in the past, so hope is a tricky thing to latch onto. However, that ending is SO WROTH IT! 💞
I can definitely say that A Wing to Break is one of my new favorite reads of 2025. I can't wait to see what else Calla Tate has in store for these characters and the whole Ruin's End series.
I honestly haven't laughed this much since I read Lights Out. I haven't related so hard to a FMC's position in life since Chasing Petals. I haven't been this excited for the sequel and subsequent books since the Legacy of Gods series. Everything about the world of Ruins End makes me want to stay there and never come up for air.
Hex Alvarez, you are THE MAN! Can we clone him? Please??? 🥵 He may be eight years younger (not much of an age gap if you ask me) and VERY ROUGH around the edges, but he is very easy on the eyes and knows how to take care of his own without being told to do so. He's just the kind of guy Sable needs in order to function as a woman again, instead of a single mom, doing it all, running her own business, and dealing with a serious stalker issue. (And no, this isn't the god kind of stalking we like to read in dark romance books. It's just all-around BAD!)
I appreciate the pacing of this story the most; while it's obvious Hex falls first and Sable falls harder, they are both cautious, understandably so. Nothing has ever really worked out for these two in the past, so hope is a tricky thing to latch onto. However, that ending is SO WROTH IT! 💞
I can definitely say that A Wing to Break is one of my new favorite reads of 2025. I can't wait to see what else Calla Tate has in store for these characters and the whole Ruin's End series.
October 23, 2025
This book was so good. The flow of it was amazing! Couldn’t help but fall in love with the main characters! Can’t wait for Will and Demi’s story😜
October 16, 2025
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
What I believe immediately set A Wing to Break apart from other similar works, and made it feel incredibly refreshing was the age of the main characters!! Sable is 39, and Hex is 31. As a reader in my thirties, finding lead characters who are established in their lives, careers, and responsibilities (not to mention dealing with the real challenges of motherhood and their pasts) is a welcome change. Their maturity adds a fantastic layer of complexity and experience to their decisions, making their descent into obsession and chaos all the more compelling.
The premise is exactly the kind of deliciously dark hook I crave. Sable has spent her life adhering to the rules, but she is being actively broken by a stalker. Enter Hex, an ex underground fighter and bar owner whose world is defined by the marks he leaves and the rules he broke long ago.
Sable is looking for safety; Hex is looking for a reason to clean the blood off his knuckles. Their dynamic is explosive. She is the fragile perfection trying not to fall apart, and he is the chaos magnet who recognizes her vulnerability as something worth protecting and possessing.
Highly recommend!
What I believe immediately set A Wing to Break apart from other similar works, and made it feel incredibly refreshing was the age of the main characters!! Sable is 39, and Hex is 31. As a reader in my thirties, finding lead characters who are established in their lives, careers, and responsibilities (not to mention dealing with the real challenges of motherhood and their pasts) is a welcome change. Their maturity adds a fantastic layer of complexity and experience to their decisions, making their descent into obsession and chaos all the more compelling.
The premise is exactly the kind of deliciously dark hook I crave. Sable has spent her life adhering to the rules, but she is being actively broken by a stalker. Enter Hex, an ex underground fighter and bar owner whose world is defined by the marks he leaves and the rules he broke long ago.
Sable is looking for safety; Hex is looking for a reason to clean the blood off his knuckles. Their dynamic is explosive. She is the fragile perfection trying not to fall apart, and he is the chaos magnet who recognizes her vulnerability as something worth protecting and possessing.
Highly recommend!
January 20, 2026
A Wing to Break completely caught me off guard in the best way. Relatable, emotional, funny, and a little unhinged, this story gave me everything I didn’t know I needed and then left me wanting more. If you’re deep in fantasy and need a palate cleanser, this is such a satisfying reset. It hit that sweet spot of comfort read meets emotional punch.
I loved how grounded this felt. Sable is a refreshing FMC. She’s in her late 30s, a mom, messy, self-aware, and navigating the kind of chaos that actually looks like real life. Nothing about her feels manufactured. The emotions sneak up on you, the vulnerability feels honest, and the humor balances the heavier moments perfectly. Calla Tate writes with so much heart and bite, and it shows in every interaction.
And then there’s Hex. The way he’s written is seamless and cinematic. The tension, the chemistry, the anticipation, the quiet moments that make your chest ache but it all feels earned. Add in an absolutely chaotic best friend, millennial humor that actually lands, and moments that made me laugh out loud, and this book just works. I closed it already wishing I had book two in my hands.
I loved how grounded this felt. Sable is a refreshing FMC. She’s in her late 30s, a mom, messy, self-aware, and navigating the kind of chaos that actually looks like real life. Nothing about her feels manufactured. The emotions sneak up on you, the vulnerability feels honest, and the humor balances the heavier moments perfectly. Calla Tate writes with so much heart and bite, and it shows in every interaction.
And then there’s Hex. The way he’s written is seamless and cinematic. The tension, the chemistry, the anticipation, the quiet moments that make your chest ache but it all feels earned. Add in an absolutely chaotic best friend, millennial humor that actually lands, and moments that made me laugh out loud, and this book just works. I closed it already wishing I had book two in my hands.
October 9, 2025
i ate this up! the story is fast paced & never drags. the characters actually feel like real people & even though the storyline gets dark at times, the connection between the main characters is surprisingly sweet and wholesome.
also, i knew by like.. 10% in that i absolutely needed a demi/will book. i can’t wait for them.
also, i knew by like.. 10% in that i absolutely needed a demi/will book. i can’t wait for them.
September 24, 2025
I could not put this book down and completely flew through it! I’m usually not a big dark romance reader, but I loved this one! The romance isn’t really dark, though there are some darker aspects in it, which just made it better.
I absolutely loved all the characters, especially Hex. Literal perfection, no notes. I really enjoyed having an older FMC too, it was so easy to relate to her and her feelings. It felt so refreshing to read a romance where everyone was upfront and honest with each other. The whole cast was amazing, from the best friends and family to the bar patrons. I laughed so hard at parts and seriously, everyone needs a friend like Demi!
Thank you Calla Tate for an advanced reader copy of this title!
I absolutely loved all the characters, especially Hex. Literal perfection, no notes. I really enjoyed having an older FMC too, it was so easy to relate to her and her feelings. It felt so refreshing to read a romance where everyone was upfront and honest with each other. The whole cast was amazing, from the best friends and family to the bar patrons. I laughed so hard at parts and seriously, everyone needs a friend like Demi!
Thank you Calla Tate for an advanced reader copy of this title!
October 14, 2025
Holy.... cow.... I loved every second of this book! I'm still emotionally reeling from the way it grabbed my heartstrings. Between getting to know Hex's insanely dark past and watch Sable's confidence grow.
Sable and Hex are each others opposites. Sable successfully owns and runs her own refurbished antique store as a single mom and Hex is an ex-underground fighter who runs the local bar with his brothers.
Sable has always followed the rules and has played by the book, until her ex's psycho ex-fling starts stalking her every move and social media posts. Hex steps in to "save her" to get Ashley off her tail, but Ashley does the unthinkable at the end of the book, causing Sable to use some of the training she learned from Hex a few months prior.
I absolutely loved the reverse age gap aspect of this book and some of the very real issues women go through around 40. I really related to the emotions of being scared to get let down or disappointed by someone who you really start to like and being scared to show them your authentic self.
Overall, absolute 5/5 read. The spice was definitely a 5/5 level, as was the emotional level of the character development. I absolutely cannot wait to read more of her work!
Sable and Hex are each others opposites. Sable successfully owns and runs her own refurbished antique store as a single mom and Hex is an ex-underground fighter who runs the local bar with his brothers.
Sable has always followed the rules and has played by the book, until her ex's psycho ex-fling starts stalking her every move and social media posts. Hex steps in to "save her" to get Ashley off her tail, but Ashley does the unthinkable at the end of the book, causing Sable to use some of the training she learned from Hex a few months prior.
I absolutely loved the reverse age gap aspect of this book and some of the very real issues women go through around 40. I really related to the emotions of being scared to get let down or disappointed by someone who you really start to like and being scared to show them your authentic self.
Overall, absolute 5/5 read. The spice was definitely a 5/5 level, as was the emotional level of the character development. I absolutely cannot wait to read more of her work!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2026
✨ ARC Review | A Wing to Break by @callatate ✨
I’m not exaggerating when I say this book has carved itself into my soul. By 60% in, my Kindle was covered in highlights because every other page felt like it was speaking directly to me.
Calla Tate captures, with raw honesty and deep emotional nuance, what it’s like to live a life shaped by people-pleasing, survival mode, and the quiet trauma of trying to hold everything together as a single mother while hoping the person who should show up finally does. Sable’s journey felt painfully familiar in the best and hardest ways. Reading her story was like revisiting my own life before I found the courage to leave.
The insecurities. The hesitation. The fear of choosing yourself. Every emotion Sable carries felt real, earned, and achingly accurate. And Hex? Finding someone who feels safe after chaos is its own kind of healing and this book GETS that.
A Wing to Break is the kind of story that doesn’t just stay with you, it settles into your heart and refuses to leave. This one will live rent-free in my head and my heart forever.
🪽💔✨ Highly recommend.
Release day is HERE, do not miss this one.
💕💕💕
I’m not exaggerating when I say this book has carved itself into my soul. By 60% in, my Kindle was covered in highlights because every other page felt like it was speaking directly to me.
Calla Tate captures, with raw honesty and deep emotional nuance, what it’s like to live a life shaped by people-pleasing, survival mode, and the quiet trauma of trying to hold everything together as a single mother while hoping the person who should show up finally does. Sable’s journey felt painfully familiar in the best and hardest ways. Reading her story was like revisiting my own life before I found the courage to leave.
The insecurities. The hesitation. The fear of choosing yourself. Every emotion Sable carries felt real, earned, and achingly accurate. And Hex? Finding someone who feels safe after chaos is its own kind of healing and this book GETS that.
A Wing to Break is the kind of story that doesn’t just stay with you, it settles into your heart and refuses to leave. This one will live rent-free in my head and my heart forever.
🪽💔✨ Highly recommend.
Release day is HERE, do not miss this one.
💕💕💕
November 14, 2025
Thank you to Calla Tate for providing me with a ARC
Holy moly!! This was like a breath of fresh air. You guys, this book finished me!! I didn’t know I needed this book until I finished it. A book about survival, healing, and learning that it’s okay to let your imperfections show. I loved every second of this book. I did not expect for this dark rom com book to pull at my damn heart strings. It was so real, learning how to trust again, to take your guard down when TRUE LOVE is right in front of you, it’s raw, passionate, intimate, and down right breathtaking beautiful. And also to never settle for less than you deserve ladies!!!
I absolutely loved Sable and Hex. Sable has always played by the rules and then having her ex husband’s psycho fling (Ashley) becomes obsessed with her and starts stalking her and she becomes dangerous.
Hex is just wow!!! Definition of a GOOD MAN! Although he’s very protective of what’s his, and he’s got a dark past. He’s sweet, caring, loving, and the way he takes care of Sable, he does things without being told to do so, whatever he says he’ll do, he backs it up with ACTUALLY DOING SO! He takes actions speak louder than words seriously! 💯 🙌 thats true love right there.
The romance between them was so intense and passionate. I could feel the heat coming off the pages, every interaction between them you can imagine it, you can feel it.
Their chemistry is powerful, it made me feel all giddy watching their love blossom.
Can’t wait to see what else Calla Tate has coming next! Definitely need a Demi and Will book. Also I adored Demi, Hex and Demi’s friendship is so heartfelt. I love Demi’s humor and her firecracker attitude. Everyone needs a friend like her!!
5 ⭐️
4 🌶️
Holy moly!! This was like a breath of fresh air. You guys, this book finished me!! I didn’t know I needed this book until I finished it. A book about survival, healing, and learning that it’s okay to let your imperfections show. I loved every second of this book. I did not expect for this dark rom com book to pull at my damn heart strings. It was so real, learning how to trust again, to take your guard down when TRUE LOVE is right in front of you, it’s raw, passionate, intimate, and down right breathtaking beautiful. And also to never settle for less than you deserve ladies!!!
I absolutely loved Sable and Hex. Sable has always played by the rules and then having her ex husband’s psycho fling (Ashley) becomes obsessed with her and starts stalking her and she becomes dangerous.
Hex is just wow!!! Definition of a GOOD MAN! Although he’s very protective of what’s his, and he’s got a dark past. He’s sweet, caring, loving, and the way he takes care of Sable, he does things without being told to do so, whatever he says he’ll do, he backs it up with ACTUALLY DOING SO! He takes actions speak louder than words seriously! 💯 🙌 thats true love right there.
The romance between them was so intense and passionate. I could feel the heat coming off the pages, every interaction between them you can imagine it, you can feel it.
Their chemistry is powerful, it made me feel all giddy watching their love blossom.
Can’t wait to see what else Calla Tate has coming next! Definitely need a Demi and Will book. Also I adored Demi, Hex and Demi’s friendship is so heartfelt. I love Demi’s humor and her firecracker attitude. Everyone needs a friend like her!!
5 ⭐️
4 🌶️
January 22, 2026
ARC review: 4.5⭐️ This book was seriously so fun, and I’m not sure what that says about me. Love can make us do crazy things. Sable finds out all too well just how crazy love can make us when she is being stalked and harassed by her exes new fling. I love that we got to see a different side to the usual stalking trope, with a jealous female stalker. I feel like sable was very relatable. She was in a relationship that was neither good or bad, more complacent. Like we all do, she desired something more. Her life quickly became a whirlwind of crazy and a whole lot more after she met the closed off, slightly mysterious bar owner Hex, who really knows how to “handle” any situation thrown at him. All while being a mom, a business owner, and rediscovering herself. Demi is the bestie we all need. She will have your back in any situation, even if you accidentally fall in love with a hitman, she will definitely fight off stalkers for you, and supply coupons for all the best deals. In a world full of Ashley’s, be a Demi.
January 24, 2026
I am so glad I got an early look at A Wing to Break. While the plot felt a little lackluster for me at times, I almost didn't care because the writing was just so good. Calla Tate has a smart and funny voice that feels like a total breath of fresh air for this dark romance genre. The banter is easily the best part and kept me hooked the whole way through.
I am definitely going to be looking for the next book and pretty much anything else this author puts out in the future. If you like witty characters, you should definitely give this one a try.
Huge thanks to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I am definitely going to be looking for the next book and pretty much anything else this author puts out in the future. If you like witty characters, you should definitely give this one a try.
Huge thanks to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 1, 2025
I have to say, after a rollercoaster of emotions, Tate knocks it out of the park with this one. Love, loss, regret, laughter, empathy. At one point, she even had my inner Texan's blood boiling with rage, frantically scanning the pages, rooting for the villain to "Get theirs."
A Wing to Break is one of the best novels I've read in years. The FMC is THE most relatable character I have ever had the pleasure to get to know. Everyone my age wants to pretend they're Katniss, Feyre, or even Violet--, but Tate's leading lady is actually tangible, relatable, and true. Not to mention her firecracker BFF, who I hate to admit I share all too many traits with, but kept me laughing the entire book. Impulsive, obnoxious, and unapologetically herself, but also totally ride or die. I found myself shouting the same things before I even read her say them. Love her.
I will mingle in some dislikes here because I dont want to leave a bad taste in your mouth. I could have done without the use of a certain curse word abbreviated as GD, a bit too often for my taste. My personal preference, I know, but I had to put it out there. And there IS a lot of spice in this one, which I personally can live without. Keeping it behind closed doors is perfectly fine with me. However, I will say it was certainly more tastefully done than I have read in the past. The words chosen, the descriptions of actions, they seemed more realistic than campy. I found myself raising my eyebrows, blushing, rather than rolling my eyes and mocking. So, props there!
Not to mention, the care that went into describing every scene is perfection. You can feel it, see it, smell it. The dust in the air. The way the light catches. You are there! It is so immersive I was truly in awe.
The "found family" dynamic between the MMC and his "brothers" was reminiscent (for me) of Rhysand, Cassian & Azriel. So I loved that. The MMC is just the kind of man every woman wants. A brave ruthless protector with a strong and consistent reassuring presence. Handsome is an added bonus.
Also, the POV swapping was virtually seamless. I hate time jumping between perspectives, and Tate does a phenomenal job with minimal overlap of POVs.
All in all, a wonderful read, I couldn't put it down. I truly hope we get to see more of these characters in the future. Read it yesterday.
A Wing to Break is one of the best novels I've read in years. The FMC is THE most relatable character I have ever had the pleasure to get to know. Everyone my age wants to pretend they're Katniss, Feyre, or even Violet--, but Tate's leading lady is actually tangible, relatable, and true. Not to mention her firecracker BFF, who I hate to admit I share all too many traits with, but kept me laughing the entire book. Impulsive, obnoxious, and unapologetically herself, but also totally ride or die. I found myself shouting the same things before I even read her say them. Love her.
I will mingle in some dislikes here because I dont want to leave a bad taste in your mouth. I could have done without the use of a certain curse word abbreviated as GD, a bit too often for my taste. My personal preference, I know, but I had to put it out there. And there IS a lot of spice in this one, which I personally can live without. Keeping it behind closed doors is perfectly fine with me. However, I will say it was certainly more tastefully done than I have read in the past. The words chosen, the descriptions of actions, they seemed more realistic than campy. I found myself raising my eyebrows, blushing, rather than rolling my eyes and mocking. So, props there!
Not to mention, the care that went into describing every scene is perfection. You can feel it, see it, smell it. The dust in the air. The way the light catches. You are there! It is so immersive I was truly in awe.
The "found family" dynamic between the MMC and his "brothers" was reminiscent (for me) of Rhysand, Cassian & Azriel. So I loved that. The MMC is just the kind of man every woman wants. A brave ruthless protector with a strong and consistent reassuring presence. Handsome is an added bonus.
Also, the POV swapping was virtually seamless. I hate time jumping between perspectives, and Tate does a phenomenal job with minimal overlap of POVs.
All in all, a wonderful read, I couldn't put it down. I truly hope we get to see more of these characters in the future. Read it yesterday.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed the reverse age gap with the FMC being older, and Hex as a morally gray MMC totally delivered. Sable’s story as a single mom dealing with a female stalker paired perfectly with Hex’s vigilante side. Loved how he never stopped showing up for her. The small-town Texas setting and strong found family vibes made it even better.
But Demi stole the show an unhinged, ride-or-die bestie I absolutely adored. I can’t wait for her book with Will!
But Demi stole the show an unhinged, ride-or-die bestie I absolutely adored. I can’t wait for her book with Will!
October 31, 2025
Calla Tate's take on dark romance is about to hit it big. A Wing to Break is exactly the breath of fresh air I needed in the dark romance department.
The story starts with our rule-following, always obedient FMC, Sable. Sable is a small business owner with something to prove to herself. She is a relatable single mom fresh out of a 10-year situationship that brought her misery and joy too in the shape of her son, Bash. Sable's best friend, Demi, is quite literally a fiery, red-headed firecracker who deserves an award for the role she plays in this story.
Down from Sable's shop is our MMC, Hector aka Hex. Hex is what I describe as walking steel and sex. He is a rule-breaking, ripped, motorcycle-riding, handler of all things needing handled. He quite literally starts from the bottom and fights his way out of the cage to save everyone he holds dear, his very flirty younger brother, J.T. Hex and J.T. have built themselves a small empire alongside their brother from another mother, Will, the neighborhood bartender/cleaner of all the messes.
When Sable and Hex meet at an early drunken birthday bash gone wrong that involves our villian, Ashley, sparks fly along with Demi. Nothing will ever be the same for our small town characters who find their missing halves in one another.
While I felt like the story was quite rushed in some parts, it did not take away any enjoyment I found in this book. Its refreshing and easy to read and follow along. Very spicy with great plot. While I personally think Hex and Sable's relationship might be a bit toxic, it's absolutely working for this story. Also, for the girls pushing middle-aged, it was so great to read a reverse age gap where our FMC is pushing 40.
This has to be one of the funniest and sweetest stories of found love and family. I was so honored to have received an ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and cannot wait to read more from Calla Tate.
Raise a glass of bourbon to our angels waiting at our Ruin's End.
The story starts with our rule-following, always obedient FMC, Sable. Sable is a small business owner with something to prove to herself. She is a relatable single mom fresh out of a 10-year situationship that brought her misery and joy too in the shape of her son, Bash. Sable's best friend, Demi, is quite literally a fiery, red-headed firecracker who deserves an award for the role she plays in this story.
Down from Sable's shop is our MMC, Hector aka Hex. Hex is what I describe as walking steel and sex. He is a rule-breaking, ripped, motorcycle-riding, handler of all things needing handled. He quite literally starts from the bottom and fights his way out of the cage to save everyone he holds dear, his very flirty younger brother, J.T. Hex and J.T. have built themselves a small empire alongside their brother from another mother, Will, the neighborhood bartender/cleaner of all the messes.
When Sable and Hex meet at an early drunken birthday bash gone wrong that involves our villian, Ashley, sparks fly along with Demi. Nothing will ever be the same for our small town characters who find their missing halves in one another.
While I felt like the story was quite rushed in some parts, it did not take away any enjoyment I found in this book. Its refreshing and easy to read and follow along. Very spicy with great plot. While I personally think Hex and Sable's relationship might be a bit toxic, it's absolutely working for this story. Also, for the girls pushing middle-aged, it was so great to read a reverse age gap where our FMC is pushing 40.
This has to be one of the funniest and sweetest stories of found love and family. I was so honored to have received an ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and cannot wait to read more from Calla Tate.
Raise a glass of bourbon to our angels waiting at our Ruin's End.
October 31, 2025
I really loved reading “A Wing to Break” by Calla Tate! I loved reading about a single mother. I related to it from the beginning. Sable was an amazing relate-able character. She was so strong, without understanding how strong she truly was. She was beautiful inside and out. And she deserved way more than what she first thought she deserved. Her best friend Demi is such a wild child. I find it funny how that how it always is. One friend is always the calm one and one is always the wild one. And those two fit it perfectly. They balance each other out perfectly. I don’t know if they would know what to do with themselves if they didn’t have each other in each other’s lives.
If it wasn’t for Demi, Sable would never have met Hex. Hex is everything Sable needed in her life that she didn’t know she needed. And the same for Hex. He took one look at her and that was that. She was his and she didn’t even know it. Yes he had his doubts about many things and rightfully so but in all honesty he deserved to be just as happy as anyone else. Just because he didn’t have an easier upbringing doesn’t mean he isn’t a good man. He is a protector of who he loves. No one can fault him for that.
All around this was a great read. I can’t wait for the story to continue with some of the other characters at Ruins End. I’m going to be waiting on the edge of my seat for them.
If it wasn’t for Demi, Sable would never have met Hex. Hex is everything Sable needed in her life that she didn’t know she needed. And the same for Hex. He took one look at her and that was that. She was his and she didn’t even know it. Yes he had his doubts about many things and rightfully so but in all honesty he deserved to be just as happy as anyone else. Just because he didn’t have an easier upbringing doesn’t mean he isn’t a good man. He is a protector of who he loves. No one can fault him for that.
All around this was a great read. I can’t wait for the story to continue with some of the other characters at Ruins End. I’m going to be waiting on the edge of my seat for them.
October 20, 2025
4 ☆'s
This was a fast-paced, engrossing read. Thank you so much to Calla Tate for the advanced copy. I was immediately sucked in by Sable's story and was rooting for her. There was a minor thing about Sable that absolutely threw me off and out of the story until about halfway through. I am not mentioning the specifics because I don't think it will affect 95% of the readers if it affects anyone else at all. I was able to move past it and enjoy the rest of the story.
I absolutely loved our cast of characters. Ashley is a great villain, and I loved how well portrayed that was. Andrew was forgettable as he should be. Demi and Will were hands down my favorite characters other than Hex and Sable. Their interactions are so funny, and I hope the next book in the series is about them. Demi is an absolute menace, and Will is super in control of everything in his life. JT is a sweet, kid incredibly smart and i cant wait to see what is done with his character in the future. Hex is exactly what you want in an mmc in a story like this: deadly, well respected, biker, ripped, and soft for her. Sable is a realistic 39 year old, mother. I really liked her portrayal and that she was that age. Oh, and 8 years older than Hex. She did make some choices I didn't exactly agree with, but they largely work with the story.
The pacing is fast, very fast, like over the span of a couple of weeks. That being said, a few parts felt a little bit rushed, but overall, I didn't mind how the story was paced. It was an enjoyable read. I am very excited about the idea of Will and Demi having a story. I think it would be hilarious, and hopefully, that is what comes next. They were the levity in this story.
This was a solid debut for the author into this genre.
Releases: 20 January 2026
This was a fast-paced, engrossing read. Thank you so much to Calla Tate for the advanced copy. I was immediately sucked in by Sable's story and was rooting for her. There was a minor thing about Sable that absolutely threw me off and out of the story until about halfway through. I am not mentioning the specifics because I don't think it will affect 95% of the readers if it affects anyone else at all. I was able to move past it and enjoy the rest of the story.
I absolutely loved our cast of characters. Ashley is a great villain, and I loved how well portrayed that was. Andrew was forgettable as he should be. Demi and Will were hands down my favorite characters other than Hex and Sable. Their interactions are so funny, and I hope the next book in the series is about them. Demi is an absolute menace, and Will is super in control of everything in his life. JT is a sweet, kid incredibly smart and i cant wait to see what is done with his character in the future. Hex is exactly what you want in an mmc in a story like this: deadly, well respected, biker, ripped, and soft for her. Sable is a realistic 39 year old, mother. I really liked her portrayal and that she was that age. Oh, and 8 years older than Hex. She did make some choices I didn't exactly agree with, but they largely work with the story.
The pacing is fast, very fast, like over the span of a couple of weeks. That being said, a few parts felt a little bit rushed, but overall, I didn't mind how the story was paced. It was an enjoyable read. I am very excited about the idea of Will and Demi having a story. I think it would be hilarious, and hopefully, that is what comes next. They were the levity in this story.
This was a solid debut for the author into this genre.
Releases: 20 January 2026
October 14, 2025
✨ A Wing To Break by Calla Tate ✨
📚 What it’s about: Sable has spent her life being good. A good mum, a good daughter, a good pretender that life is ok. She has a stalker, her ex's mistress, who is making her life hell. She meets Hex on a night out, in his bar, has a few too many drinks and unknowingly contacts him via his website to 'handle' her stalker. Hex has no problem handling situations other people cannot. Protecting those who need it. Fighting those who deserve it. Sable soon becomes someone he wants to protect, but will his past allow him to be the man he wants to become for her?
💭 My thoughts: Honestly where do I start? This book had it all. It was funny, it was dark, it was romantic. Calla absolutely nailed the Dark Romcom vibe. Hex was pure perfection, yes he's dark and morally grey, but the reasons why? Absolutely green in my book. I related to Sable in so many ways it was like I was reading about my own life at times. I haven't felt that connection on a deep personal level before in a book and I am here for it! The side characters were top tier - Demi was honestly fantastic. I was fangirling over her and her energy. Absolute friendship goals. I liked the pace of the book, they both knew what they wanted and went for it. I loved that there was absolutely no miscommunication or misunderstandings, no 3rd act break up. I cannot wait for Will and Demi. That book is going to be hilarious if the epilogue was anything to go by.
🌟 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℹ️ Tropes: Reverse Age Gap, Stalker, Morally Grey MMC, Found Family, Dark Rom-Com, Single Mum
📚 What it’s about: Sable has spent her life being good. A good mum, a good daughter, a good pretender that life is ok. She has a stalker, her ex's mistress, who is making her life hell. She meets Hex on a night out, in his bar, has a few too many drinks and unknowingly contacts him via his website to 'handle' her stalker. Hex has no problem handling situations other people cannot. Protecting those who need it. Fighting those who deserve it. Sable soon becomes someone he wants to protect, but will his past allow him to be the man he wants to become for her?
💭 My thoughts: Honestly where do I start? This book had it all. It was funny, it was dark, it was romantic. Calla absolutely nailed the Dark Romcom vibe. Hex was pure perfection, yes he's dark and morally grey, but the reasons why? Absolutely green in my book. I related to Sable in so many ways it was like I was reading about my own life at times. I haven't felt that connection on a deep personal level before in a book and I am here for it! The side characters were top tier - Demi was honestly fantastic. I was fangirling over her and her energy. Absolute friendship goals. I liked the pace of the book, they both knew what they wanted and went for it. I loved that there was absolutely no miscommunication or misunderstandings, no 3rd act break up. I cannot wait for Will and Demi. That book is going to be hilarious if the epilogue was anything to go by.
🌟 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℹ️ Tropes: Reverse Age Gap, Stalker, Morally Grey MMC, Found Family, Dark Rom-Com, Single Mum
November 12, 2025
I loved the plot line. I do feel that in some places it was a litte long winded and could have been summarized a little to make the storie line flow a little better. In the spice department, I would rate this a 2. The sexy scenes are really not spicy in my opinion. However, if you want to read a book with a good story line, this is a good start. 1This was my first ARC book review and in all I really did enjoy the story. Looking forward to the next book.
November 3, 2025
ARC REVIEW
🌟🌟I loved this book! The story had me from the first page & I couldn't put it down! The FMC is 39 which was a nice change from most books where she is early 20's. There was no miscommunication; lots of action & the book never dragged. 10/10 would recommend! thank you for this beautiful story!
🌟🌟I loved this book! The story had me from the first page & I couldn't put it down! The FMC is 39 which was a nice change from most books where she is early 20's. There was no miscommunication; lots of action & the book never dragged. 10/10 would recommend! thank you for this beautiful story!
October 29, 2025
Wow. This book had me hooked, I felt every moment Sable went through. The way Calla took real life moments and made them into this amazing story is absolutely breathtaking. I sat on pins and needles, I laughed, and yes I even cried! Hex is the perfect book boyfriend and I hope and pray we get more of him through the series.
Thank you for letting be one of your ARC readers and I will definitely be watching out for the next book!
Thank you for letting be one of your ARC readers and I will definitely be watching out for the next book!
January 3, 2026
I was lucky to be an ARC reader for this novel. It was refreshing to read a new author. Often, polished authors begin to have the same rhythm and flow. With new authors, you can tell the writing comes from the heart.
While I enjoyed the book, it could have benefited from a few more drafts. While I am not the grammar and spelling police (I’m terrible myself), there are grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book. The first half felt a little bumpy to me—it is definitely a second-half novel. I would give the first half a 2.5 and the second half a 4.
There were a few cringe moments—potato salad and intimacy should not mix. Also, I am nearly 40, like the MFC, and I felt the author often referenced her as innocent like an 18-year-old, then in the next paragraph as a woman in her 60s (the nighttime bathroom breaks?). I also couldn’t tell what age her son was—he often felt preschool age or younger (sippy cups), and other times closer to 8–10. At times, I couldn’t tell if Andrew was truly a bad guy or just an immature jerk.
Things I loved: the friendships!
I loved Demi and Sable. We all need a girl in our lives who makes us laugh and knows how to have a good time. I loved JT, Will, and Hex’s lifelong friendship. I loved Hex’s rough exterior and how he would take the world down for those he loves—especially for Sable. I also enjoyed the ending and the proposal.
Passage I enjoyed:
Hex: “She told me of an angel,” I say. “Not the kind you pray to. Not soft or glowing or merciful, like they preach of.”
Her gaze doesn’t leave my face as I speak. Not once.
“This angel… she doesn’t save the worthy. She saves the ruined. The ones who stop trying. The ones who stop believing they deserve anything good.
Not because they are bad, but because they’ve spent too long in the wrong situations.”
She lifts my hand to her mouth and kisses the broken flesh. Every knuckle. Slow. Like it matters. Like I matter.
I pause, jaw tight.
My voice drops with the weight of emotion. “Mom said the angel watches, waits for the one person too tired to ask for help.
Too proud to beg. Too damaged.”
Sable intertwines her fingers with mine.
“But this particular angel doesn’t show up to save you. She is meant to stand beside you. And if you truly want out of hell, she’ll walk the path with you.”
The writing and dialogue reminded me of Lucy Score, so her readers may enjoy picking up this book. I look forward—with hope—to reading a sequel with Will and Demi. 🤞
While I enjoyed the book, it could have benefited from a few more drafts. While I am not the grammar and spelling police (I’m terrible myself), there are grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book. The first half felt a little bumpy to me—it is definitely a second-half novel. I would give the first half a 2.5 and the second half a 4.
There were a few cringe moments—potato salad and intimacy should not mix. Also, I am nearly 40, like the MFC, and I felt the author often referenced her as innocent like an 18-year-old, then in the next paragraph as a woman in her 60s (the nighttime bathroom breaks?). I also couldn’t tell what age her son was—he often felt preschool age or younger (sippy cups), and other times closer to 8–10. At times, I couldn’t tell if Andrew was truly a bad guy or just an immature jerk.
Things I loved: the friendships!
I loved Demi and Sable. We all need a girl in our lives who makes us laugh and knows how to have a good time. I loved JT, Will, and Hex’s lifelong friendship. I loved Hex’s rough exterior and how he would take the world down for those he loves—especially for Sable. I also enjoyed the ending and the proposal.
Passage I enjoyed:
Hex: “She told me of an angel,” I say. “Not the kind you pray to. Not soft or glowing or merciful, like they preach of.”
Her gaze doesn’t leave my face as I speak. Not once.
“This angel… she doesn’t save the worthy. She saves the ruined. The ones who stop trying. The ones who stop believing they deserve anything good.
Not because they are bad, but because they’ve spent too long in the wrong situations.”
She lifts my hand to her mouth and kisses the broken flesh. Every knuckle. Slow. Like it matters. Like I matter.
I pause, jaw tight.
My voice drops with the weight of emotion. “Mom said the angel watches, waits for the one person too tired to ask for help.
Too proud to beg. Too damaged.”
Sable intertwines her fingers with mine.
“But this particular angel doesn’t show up to save you. She is meant to stand beside you. And if you truly want out of hell, she’ll walk the path with you.”
The writing and dialogue reminded me of Lucy Score, so her readers may enjoy picking up this book. I look forward—with hope—to reading a sequel with Will and Demi. 🤞
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Wing To Break was a fresh breath of air for me.
Finally, a FMC pushing 40, with a whole-ass life lived. Sable is solid and complex. A lifelong good girl and people-pleaser, having to constantly show up for herself and others; dealing with the fallout of accepting the weakest showing of love and support from someone incapable of being a partner.
I really enjoyed Sable’s character development. She navigates what’s left of a life after attempting to cut-out the bad. She does what any reasonable woman in her situation does by insulating her vulnerability with a healthy dose of sass, and throws herself into motherhood and work. The way she struggles to balance her successes with self-perceived failure is completely relatable. Sable’s journey of growth and acceptance mirrored all the heartbreak, beauty and humor it takes to survive and come out the other side. It was so powerful watching this woman reach her limit and take a stand.
Hex was EVERYTHING! I love a good boy, gone bad. Especially if it’s to protect the people he loves. He recognizes Sable’s strength and worth instantly. Hex meets her where she is in her life, continually shows up for her, and holds her and everything she values with respect and softness. He shows her what safety feels like and how to embrace her wild-side. The personality and tone of his character and his big heart are impeccably well-written. Some of the things this man says and thinks had me absolutely melting. “You show up with all your sharp edges and I’ll keep showing up with steady hands. That’s the deal.”
Another character of note was Demi. Pure firey charm and chaos. We should all be so lucky to have a best friend that refuses to let us rot in peace, alone.
Nothing in this book feels overdone. Calla’s brand of writing immerses you into the stories of the characters of Stillwater Bend, Texas. The reverse age-gap was not problematic, and the chemistry and banter were insanely enjoyable and felt authentic.
I can’t wait to see what comes next in the Ruin’s End series.
Finally, a FMC pushing 40, with a whole-ass life lived. Sable is solid and complex. A lifelong good girl and people-pleaser, having to constantly show up for herself and others; dealing with the fallout of accepting the weakest showing of love and support from someone incapable of being a partner.
I really enjoyed Sable’s character development. She navigates what’s left of a life after attempting to cut-out the bad. She does what any reasonable woman in her situation does by insulating her vulnerability with a healthy dose of sass, and throws herself into motherhood and work. The way she struggles to balance her successes with self-perceived failure is completely relatable. Sable’s journey of growth and acceptance mirrored all the heartbreak, beauty and humor it takes to survive and come out the other side. It was so powerful watching this woman reach her limit and take a stand.
Hex was EVERYTHING! I love a good boy, gone bad. Especially if it’s to protect the people he loves. He recognizes Sable’s strength and worth instantly. Hex meets her where she is in her life, continually shows up for her, and holds her and everything she values with respect and softness. He shows her what safety feels like and how to embrace her wild-side. The personality and tone of his character and his big heart are impeccably well-written. Some of the things this man says and thinks had me absolutely melting. “You show up with all your sharp edges and I’ll keep showing up with steady hands. That’s the deal.”
Another character of note was Demi. Pure firey charm and chaos. We should all be so lucky to have a best friend that refuses to let us rot in peace, alone.
Nothing in this book feels overdone. Calla’s brand of writing immerses you into the stories of the characters of Stillwater Bend, Texas. The reverse age-gap was not problematic, and the chemistry and banter were insanely enjoyable and felt authentic.
I can’t wait to see what comes next in the Ruin’s End series.
December 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
For readers who love dark romance with humor, heart, and painfully relatable grown-adult energy, A Wing to Break delivers an emotionally charged story that will absolutely wreck you (affectionately) 🖤
This book is dark, funny, emotional, unhinged, and somehow deeply healing all at once. Please check your trigger warnings because the stalking in this book is very much not the fun dark-romance kind, it’s raw, scary, and handled with seriousness. But layered on top of that? Found family, BFF banter, single motherhood rep, reverse age gap romance, and laugh-out-loud moments that caught me completely off guard.
Sable is one of the most relatable FMCs I’ve read in a long time. She’s 39, exhausted, doing everything on her own, running a business, protecting her kid, and trying not to completely fall apart. Her life feels real. Her fear feels real. And watching her slowly allow herself to want more; safety, desire, love hit HARD.
And then there’s Hex Alvarez.
Sir.
THE MAN. 🥵
Eight years younger, rough around the edges, morally grey, and quietly devastating. Hex falls first, falls hard, and proves over and over again that actions matter more than words. He sees what Sable needs before she ever says it out loud and steps up without hesitation. Protective without being controlling. Obsessive without being disrespectful. Absolute book boyfriend material.
The pacing is perfection. The slow build feels earned. Both characters are cautious because life has burned them before, which makes the emotional payoff so satisfying. And that ending??? WORTH IT. Completely worth it. 💞
This was my first book by Calla Tate, and I can confidently say A Wing to Break is one of my favorite reads of 2025. I am obsessed with Ruin’s End and desperately need more from this world, these characters, and this series.
Thank you to Calla Tate for the ARC — I am seated for whatever comes next
For readers who love dark romance with humor, heart, and painfully relatable grown-adult energy, A Wing to Break delivers an emotionally charged story that will absolutely wreck you (affectionately) 🖤
This book is dark, funny, emotional, unhinged, and somehow deeply healing all at once. Please check your trigger warnings because the stalking in this book is very much not the fun dark-romance kind, it’s raw, scary, and handled with seriousness. But layered on top of that? Found family, BFF banter, single motherhood rep, reverse age gap romance, and laugh-out-loud moments that caught me completely off guard.
Sable is one of the most relatable FMCs I’ve read in a long time. She’s 39, exhausted, doing everything on her own, running a business, protecting her kid, and trying not to completely fall apart. Her life feels real. Her fear feels real. And watching her slowly allow herself to want more; safety, desire, love hit HARD.
And then there’s Hex Alvarez.
Sir.
THE MAN. 🥵
Eight years younger, rough around the edges, morally grey, and quietly devastating. Hex falls first, falls hard, and proves over and over again that actions matter more than words. He sees what Sable needs before she ever says it out loud and steps up without hesitation. Protective without being controlling. Obsessive without being disrespectful. Absolute book boyfriend material.
The pacing is perfection. The slow build feels earned. Both characters are cautious because life has burned them before, which makes the emotional payoff so satisfying. And that ending??? WORTH IT. Completely worth it. 💞
This was my first book by Calla Tate, and I can confidently say A Wing to Break is one of my favorite reads of 2025. I am obsessed with Ruin’s End and desperately need more from this world, these characters, and this series.
Thank you to Calla Tate for the ARC — I am seated for whatever comes next
October 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Book Review: A Wing to Break by Calla Tate
“Sometimes the right thing to do is the thing that finally breaks you open.”
Calla Tate’s A Wing to Break is a dark, emotionally charged romantic comedy that grabs hold of your heart from the very first chapter and doesn’t let go. It’s the story of Sable a woman who’s done everything “right” her whole life and Hex, a rough-around-the-edges ex-fighter who teaches her that sometimes, breaking the rules is the only way to truly start living.
Sable is a character you can’t help but root for. She’s strong, resilient, and deeply human, carrying the weight of motherhood, trauma, and survival with quiet grace. When her past collides with a dangerous stalker, she’s forced to confront her deepest fears and make choices no one should ever have to make. And then there’s Hex protective, flawed, and raw in all the best ways. Their chemistry burns off the page, but what really makes this story shine is the emotional vulnerability between them.
My favorite part of the book is when Sable finally faces Ashley, the stalker who’s taken her son, Bash. The tension in that scene is breathtaking. In a split second, Sable chooses to protect her son, pulling the trigger and saving his life. It’s a moment that perfectly captures her strength as both a mother and a woman who refuses to be broken. When Hex arrives and holds them both, the mix of relief, fear, and love is so powerful it gave me chills. And later, when Sable tells Hex she loves him, it’s raw, imperfect, and absolutely beautiful.
Calla Tate has crafted a story that’s gritty yet tender, dark yet full of hope. A Wing to Break isn’t just about love. It’s about survival, healing, and learning that sometimes, it’s okay to let the cracks show. I can't wait for the next installment in the Ruin’s End series.
“Sometimes the right thing to do is the thing that finally breaks you open.”
Calla Tate’s A Wing to Break is a dark, emotionally charged romantic comedy that grabs hold of your heart from the very first chapter and doesn’t let go. It’s the story of Sable a woman who’s done everything “right” her whole life and Hex, a rough-around-the-edges ex-fighter who teaches her that sometimes, breaking the rules is the only way to truly start living.
Sable is a character you can’t help but root for. She’s strong, resilient, and deeply human, carrying the weight of motherhood, trauma, and survival with quiet grace. When her past collides with a dangerous stalker, she’s forced to confront her deepest fears and make choices no one should ever have to make. And then there’s Hex protective, flawed, and raw in all the best ways. Their chemistry burns off the page, but what really makes this story shine is the emotional vulnerability between them.
My favorite part of the book is when Sable finally faces Ashley, the stalker who’s taken her son, Bash. The tension in that scene is breathtaking. In a split second, Sable chooses to protect her son, pulling the trigger and saving his life. It’s a moment that perfectly captures her strength as both a mother and a woman who refuses to be broken. When Hex arrives and holds them both, the mix of relief, fear, and love is so powerful it gave me chills. And later, when Sable tells Hex she loves him, it’s raw, imperfect, and absolutely beautiful.
Calla Tate has crafted a story that’s gritty yet tender, dark yet full of hope. A Wing to Break isn’t just about love. It’s about survival, healing, and learning that sometimes, it’s okay to let the cracks show. I can't wait for the next installment in the Ruin’s End series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2026
Huge thank you to the author for the ARC!
This book felt like a breath of fresh air in the dark romance space. It takes familiar tropes and twists them in ways that feel grounded and intentional. Miscommunication drama? Not here. Instead, we get two adults who actually see each other, and that alone made this hit differently for me.
The premise hooked me immediately. Sable has spent her entire life doing everything “right,” holding herself together through sheer willpower while a stalker slowly erodes what little sense of safety she has left. Then Hex walks in — ex–underground fighter, bar owner, and a man who’s no stranger to violence but suddenly wants to be gentle with her. That contrast is everything.
Their dynamic completely worked for me. Sable is all tight control and quiet unraveling, and Hex lives in chaos but recognizes something in her worth protecting — and, let’s be honest, obsessing over a little. The way he’s written feels cinematic. Every look, every moment of restraint, every shift in how he handles her builds this tension that aches in the best way. The chemistry is constant, but it’s the quiet emotional beats that made their connection feel real, not just physical.
And the tone? I was not expecting to laugh this much. The chaotic best friend energy, the millennial humor that actually lands, the sharp banter — it balances the darker elements without undercutting the stakes. It’s gritty, yes. It’s intense. But it’s also genuinely fun in a way dark romance doesn’t always manage to be.
This story grabbed me emotionally and didn’t let go. I closed the book already annoyed I don’t have the next one yet, which is always the clearest sign a book completely owned me.
If you love dark romance with real chemistry, protective morally gray men, emotional depth, and humor that actually hits — this one’s for you.
This book felt like a breath of fresh air in the dark romance space. It takes familiar tropes and twists them in ways that feel grounded and intentional. Miscommunication drama? Not here. Instead, we get two adults who actually see each other, and that alone made this hit differently for me.
The premise hooked me immediately. Sable has spent her entire life doing everything “right,” holding herself together through sheer willpower while a stalker slowly erodes what little sense of safety she has left. Then Hex walks in — ex–underground fighter, bar owner, and a man who’s no stranger to violence but suddenly wants to be gentle with her. That contrast is everything.
Their dynamic completely worked for me. Sable is all tight control and quiet unraveling, and Hex lives in chaos but recognizes something in her worth protecting — and, let’s be honest, obsessing over a little. The way he’s written feels cinematic. Every look, every moment of restraint, every shift in how he handles her builds this tension that aches in the best way. The chemistry is constant, but it’s the quiet emotional beats that made their connection feel real, not just physical.
And the tone? I was not expecting to laugh this much. The chaotic best friend energy, the millennial humor that actually lands, the sharp banter — it balances the darker elements without undercutting the stakes. It’s gritty, yes. It’s intense. But it’s also genuinely fun in a way dark romance doesn’t always manage to be.
This story grabbed me emotionally and didn’t let go. I closed the book already annoyed I don’t have the next one yet, which is always the clearest sign a book completely owned me.
If you love dark romance with real chemistry, protective morally gray men, emotional depth, and humor that actually hits — this one’s for you.
January 6, 2026
🍺 🍷 🏍️
Calla Tate delivered on this book and I’m so happy I got to read this ARC!
Hex reminds me of Jax Teller and if you know me you know I’m a fan of Charlie Hunman so of course I’d pick him to play Hex if this ever becomes a movie adaptation!
I wouldn’t ever want to be a single mom but if I were, I’d be like Sable! This woman built her life and got to where she is ON HER OWN! All while being with an Andrew. Why do the assholes in books always have to be named Andrew!?! And also, let’s talk about Ashley! I don’t think I would have handled the situation any differently than Sable did with her. Especially when it comes to my kids!
I loved the dual POV and how Sable’s and Hex’s chapters overlapped each other so you could see what their thoughts were on the same situation! And their chemistry right off the get go was contagious! We all knew a “fake” relationship between them was always going to be real! And boy was it! The way Hex just came in and immediately took care of everything she was ever worried about!
I don’t think I’ll ever think of potato salad and whipped cream the same after this book. And I won’t ever think about them without seeing Will’s face when he walked into the bar after!
And now my favorite character because I saved the best for last! DEMI! If I could find a Demi and have her be my best friend my life would be complete! The way this girl had me laughing SOOOO many times while reading this book was needed! Her personality was on point and just literally everything she said was hilarious! She gives the perfect 🖐️ job lesson if you ever need help! 🤣🤣
I can’t wait to listen to this audiobook and my only hope is that she picks a male and female to do the dual POV because it’s going to be a good one!
I give this one 5 ⭐️’s!
Calla Tate delivered on this book and I’m so happy I got to read this ARC!
Hex reminds me of Jax Teller and if you know me you know I’m a fan of Charlie Hunman so of course I’d pick him to play Hex if this ever becomes a movie adaptation!
I wouldn’t ever want to be a single mom but if I were, I’d be like Sable! This woman built her life and got to where she is ON HER OWN! All while being with an Andrew. Why do the assholes in books always have to be named Andrew!?! And also, let’s talk about Ashley! I don’t think I would have handled the situation any differently than Sable did with her. Especially when it comes to my kids!
I loved the dual POV and how Sable’s and Hex’s chapters overlapped each other so you could see what their thoughts were on the same situation! And their chemistry right off the get go was contagious! We all knew a “fake” relationship between them was always going to be real! And boy was it! The way Hex just came in and immediately took care of everything she was ever worried about!
I don’t think I’ll ever think of potato salad and whipped cream the same after this book. And I won’t ever think about them without seeing Will’s face when he walked into the bar after!
And now my favorite character because I saved the best for last! DEMI! If I could find a Demi and have her be my best friend my life would be complete! The way this girl had me laughing SOOOO many times while reading this book was needed! Her personality was on point and just literally everything she said was hilarious! She gives the perfect 🖐️ job lesson if you ever need help! 🤣🤣
I can’t wait to listen to this audiobook and my only hope is that she picks a male and female to do the dual POV because it’s going to be a good one!
I give this one 5 ⭐️’s!
December 5, 2025
Ratng: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
💕 Stalker (not the good kind)
💕 Insta-obsessed hitman/bar owner
💕 Single Mom
💕 A bit of a Rom-Com
Thoughts:
Hex is a mans man and knows how to take care of woman!!! He had me swoony right away. This book made me smile alot and enough laugh out loud. I really hope Demi, the BFF, gets a book LOL.
Summary:
After discovering her baby daddy was cheating, Sable walked away—but his new girlfriend hasn’t. Instead, she’s been stalking Sable online, monitoring her every move. To cheer her up and celebrate her upcoming birthday, Sable’s best friend Demi drags her out for a night of fun.
Hex, the owner of a notorious bar and a man with a reputation for making problems disappear, becomes instantly obsessed the moment he sees Sable. But when Sable and Demi end up at his bar, things quickly spiral—especially once the stalker girlfriend shows up and chaos erupts. Demi, being the fiercely loyal best friend she is, decides the stalker needs to be taken down and launches herself into the fight. After they get kicked out, Demi—still fired up—concludes the best solution is to hire a hitman.
The next morning brings a tidal wave of regret. Sable reaches out to Hex to apologize for the messages, the drama, and everything in between. But instead of pushing her away, Hex wants to help—because once he’s seen her, there’s no chance he’s letting her face any of this alone or letting her go. But his past comes a knocking as well.
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
💕 Stalker (not the good kind)
💕 Insta-obsessed hitman/bar owner
💕 Single Mom
💕 A bit of a Rom-Com
Thoughts:
Hex is a mans man and knows how to take care of woman!!! He had me swoony right away. This book made me smile alot and enough laugh out loud. I really hope Demi, the BFF, gets a book LOL.
Summary:
After discovering her baby daddy was cheating, Sable walked away—but his new girlfriend hasn’t. Instead, she’s been stalking Sable online, monitoring her every move. To cheer her up and celebrate her upcoming birthday, Sable’s best friend Demi drags her out for a night of fun.
Hex, the owner of a notorious bar and a man with a reputation for making problems disappear, becomes instantly obsessed the moment he sees Sable. But when Sable and Demi end up at his bar, things quickly spiral—especially once the stalker girlfriend shows up and chaos erupts. Demi, being the fiercely loyal best friend she is, decides the stalker needs to be taken down and launches herself into the fight. After they get kicked out, Demi—still fired up—concludes the best solution is to hire a hitman.
The next morning brings a tidal wave of regret. Sable reaches out to Hex to apologize for the messages, the drama, and everything in between. But instead of pushing her away, Hex wants to help—because once he’s seen her, there’s no chance he’s letting her face any of this alone or letting her go. But his past comes a knocking as well.
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