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Ruin Me: Harden Heights
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?
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?
Audible Audio
Published March 24, 2026
About the author
Kelsie Rae
62 books9,003 followersKelsie 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 6, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was an absolutely phenomenal audiobook experience! Kelsie Rae’s Ruin Me completely came to life through the narrators and I was hooked from the very first chapter!!
The male narrator’s performance as Jagger was nothing short of perfection! His deep voice was smooth and captivating bringing an intensity to Jagger that made every line feel authentic and emotionally charged. There’s this subtle confidence and edge in his tone that fits Jagger’s character perfectly and makes it impossible for the listener not to be hooked as soon as he is introduced.
And Violet? The female narrator absolutely nailed her. She portrayed Violet’s quiet strength with such conviction! Her resilience, her vulnerability, and her fire were felt from the smallest sigh of pleasure to the soul deep groan of disappointment. She didn’t just read Violet’s lines; she embodied her, giving Violet a powerful presence despite her stature and circumstances that truly elevated the entire story.
Together, the whole cast of narrators created incredible chemistry that made every interaction feel real and immersive, especially those between the brothers and between the girls! This audiobook didn’t just tell the story, it made you feel like you were there, like you were a part of it. Easily a five-star listen and one I’ll be recommending to everyone who loves emotionally driven romance with standout narration. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series and I am just as eager to see if the same narrators will be portraying the characters as they move through this series.
Thanks so very much to Dark Star Romance Productions for the opportunity to listen and provide an honest review of this audiobook.
This was an absolutely phenomenal audiobook experience! Kelsie Rae’s Ruin Me completely came to life through the narrators and I was hooked from the very first chapter!!
The male narrator’s performance as Jagger was nothing short of perfection! His deep voice was smooth and captivating bringing an intensity to Jagger that made every line feel authentic and emotionally charged. There’s this subtle confidence and edge in his tone that fits Jagger’s character perfectly and makes it impossible for the listener not to be hooked as soon as he is introduced.
And Violet? The female narrator absolutely nailed her. She portrayed Violet’s quiet strength with such conviction! Her resilience, her vulnerability, and her fire were felt from the smallest sigh of pleasure to the soul deep groan of disappointment. She didn’t just read Violet’s lines; she embodied her, giving Violet a powerful presence despite her stature and circumstances that truly elevated the entire story.
Together, the whole cast of narrators created incredible chemistry that made every interaction feel real and immersive, especially those between the brothers and between the girls! This audiobook didn’t just tell the story, it made you feel like you were there, like you were a part of it. Easily a five-star listen and one I’ll be recommending to everyone who loves emotionally driven romance with standout narration. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series and I am just as eager to see if the same narrators will be portraying the characters as they move through this series.
Thanks so very much to Dark Star Romance Productions for the opportunity to listen and provide an honest review of this audiobook.
April 12, 2026
Ruin Me
by Kelsie Rae
Multicast-Duet project narrated by Ava Monroe, Zach Lazar Hoffman, Vanessa Moyen, Ryan Pierson, Dani Soleil, E.M. Wylde, Skye Lark & Cary Hite
Produced by Dark Star Romance
College romance
Character growth
Who did this to you?
Good girl.
She asks him to take control.
Say less.
This was my first Kelsie Rae novel and it definitely won’t be my last.
I loved this college romance, from the writing to the narration, to the plot, to the spice, and the character growth. It all just worked.
🎧 The narration was amazing.
I loved how Ava Monroe portrayed Violet’s stubbornness and guarded personality, and how little by little that translated into growth, becoming more confident, more vulnerable, and opening herself up to love and trust.
Jagger’s voice by Zach Lazar Hoffman was perfect. That possessive, touch-her-and-d*e energy came through so well.
And honestly, the entire cast delivered. The multicast-duet format, combined with the production by Dark Star Romance, made this such a great listening experience and really elevated the story.
All in all, I really enjoyed this one.
Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration & Production ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Thank you so much Dark Star Romance for the audio review copy, all opinions are my own.
Multicast-Duet project narrated by Ava Monroe, Zach Lazar Hoffman, Vanessa Moyen, Ryan Pierson, Dani Soleil, E.M. Wylde, Skye Lark & Cary Hite
Produced by Dark Star Romance
College romance
Character growth
Who did this to you?
Good girl.
She asks him to take control.
Say less.
This was my first Kelsie Rae novel and it definitely won’t be my last.
I loved this college romance, from the writing to the narration, to the plot, to the spice, and the character growth. It all just worked.
🎧 The narration was amazing.
I loved how Ava Monroe portrayed Violet’s stubbornness and guarded personality, and how little by little that translated into growth, becoming more confident, more vulnerable, and opening herself up to love and trust.
Jagger’s voice by Zach Lazar Hoffman was perfect. That possessive, touch-her-and-d*e energy came through so well.
And honestly, the entire cast delivered. The multicast-duet format, combined with the production by Dark Star Romance, made this such a great listening experience and really elevated the story.
All in all, I really enjoyed this one.
Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration & Production ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Thank you so much Dark Star Romance for the audio review copy, all opinions are my own.
April 2, 2026
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!!!!
April 27, 2026
Enjoyed this listen. Narrators were so good. I enjoyed the plot to the book. Definitely recommend this
April 5, 2026
I inhaled this book in 2 days, riveted by the story and the wonderful performances by a full cast of mostly new to me voice actors.
Violet has truly rotten luck. Case in point, she has to go and beg for her money back from the 3 entitled rich boys, the Harden brothers, that run the gambling ring her father lost her entire life’s savings to after he stole it while she was at work. They refuse to give it back, but something about the oldest, Jagger, stays with her. Days go by and Jagger cannot stop thinking about the scrappy girl who is definitely not his type. But she keeps turning up and he is finding it harder and harder to stay away, even if it risks everything he and his brothers have built.
It is very easy to get wrapped up in the these characters. Violet works so hard even though everything is taken away from her over and over. Yet, she is such a great combination of tough yet determined, street smart yet innocent. Jagger is the typical rich f’boy who only cares about himself and his brothers until Violet brings out the good, protective, caring side of him. It might seem like he saves her again and again, but it is really Vi who saves him from the coldness his awful father had beaten into him. The dynamic with the 3 brothers, 4 if you count their best friend whom they all but adopted, is great. The plot is paced really well, weaving the love story with the action and suspense of the brothers dealing with the underworld boss of the shady side of town. Plus there is the constant threats from both Violet and Jagger’s fathers, two terrible if very different men. There is some violence and danger so check your triggers but this is not a terribly dark story.
This audiobook really enhances this book. The full cast brings it to life beautifully, while Ava Monroe and Zach Lazar Hoffman really standing out as Violet and Jagger.
The book sets up the rest of the series really well, leaving us with much more of the plot to explore, but concluding Jagger and Violet’s story for now. I am looking forward to continuing it.
Thank you to Dark Star Romance and author Kelsie Rae for the chance to listen to and review an advanced copy of this audiobook.
Violet has truly rotten luck. Case in point, she has to go and beg for her money back from the 3 entitled rich boys, the Harden brothers, that run the gambling ring her father lost her entire life’s savings to after he stole it while she was at work. They refuse to give it back, but something about the oldest, Jagger, stays with her. Days go by and Jagger cannot stop thinking about the scrappy girl who is definitely not his type. But she keeps turning up and he is finding it harder and harder to stay away, even if it risks everything he and his brothers have built.
It is very easy to get wrapped up in the these characters. Violet works so hard even though everything is taken away from her over and over. Yet, she is such a great combination of tough yet determined, street smart yet innocent. Jagger is the typical rich f’boy who only cares about himself and his brothers until Violet brings out the good, protective, caring side of him. It might seem like he saves her again and again, but it is really Vi who saves him from the coldness his awful father had beaten into him. The dynamic with the 3 brothers, 4 if you count their best friend whom they all but adopted, is great. The plot is paced really well, weaving the love story with the action and suspense of the brothers dealing with the underworld boss of the shady side of town. Plus there is the constant threats from both Violet and Jagger’s fathers, two terrible if very different men. There is some violence and danger so check your triggers but this is not a terribly dark story.
This audiobook really enhances this book. The full cast brings it to life beautifully, while Ava Monroe and Zach Lazar Hoffman really standing out as Violet and Jagger.
The book sets up the rest of the series really well, leaving us with much more of the plot to explore, but concluding Jagger and Violet’s story for now. I am looking forward to continuing it.
Thank you to Dark Star Romance and author Kelsie Rae for the chance to listen to and review an advanced copy of this audiobook.
April 9, 2026
🎧 This is what I like about ALCs. It is chance to get to things I might not get easily. I usually don't prefer college age romances. But. I liked this one. New author. Hello Ms. Rae. The lead narrators are new for me and so happy about it because their performance elevated the story, with the addition of all the other talent on this. Both Ms. Monroe and Mr. Hoffman gained a fan. I would like a list with who played who though from the others actors. I am not good at telling voices apart.
🎧 Ms. Monroe is a perfect fit for Violet, with intensity when needed, vulnerability where is required, sassyness when he deserves it.
🎧 Usually when the "Who hurt you?" line comes up, I smile, thinking of all the reactions I see online, taking away from the actual audio. Well not with Mr. Hoffman's voice. There is a roughness and vibe so suited for J.
🎧 I like the pace of the story, I think I do prefer this, than falling head over heels immediately despite the attraction lurking underneath. The events around the main couple keep me interested as well. For book one in a series it builds up really good.
❗️ Disclaimer : My rants, ramblings, and incoherent thoughts below might be considered spoilers by some. Also, often, I do not read trigger warnings or blurbs.
🎧 That haunted house scene got me creeped out, with the idea of bugs touching skin, but I survived thank you.
🎧 Although I did screamed in my head a couple of times of "what are you saying ?" , then have to remind myself they are college kids.
🎧 Ms. Monroe is a perfect fit for Violet, with intensity when needed, vulnerability where is required, sassyness when he deserves it.
🎧 Usually when the "Who hurt you?" line comes up, I smile, thinking of all the reactions I see online, taking away from the actual audio. Well not with Mr. Hoffman's voice. There is a roughness and vibe so suited for J.
🎧 I like the pace of the story, I think I do prefer this, than falling head over heels immediately despite the attraction lurking underneath. The events around the main couple keep me interested as well. For book one in a series it builds up really good.
❗️ Disclaimer : My rants, ramblings, and incoherent thoughts below might be considered spoilers by some. Also, often, I do not read trigger warnings or blurbs.
🎧 That haunted house scene got me creeped out, with the idea of bugs touching skin, but I survived thank you.
🎧 Although I did screamed in my head a couple of times of "what are you saying ?" , then have to remind myself they are college kids.
April 14, 2026
Dark Star Romance provided me with a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Ruin Me by Kelsie Rae is the story of Violet and Jagger. It’s the classic tale of two people from opposite sides of the track brought together by circumstance, but with a dark romance twist. This is my be the slowest of slow burns, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Kelsie takes the time to build these two different worlds. There’s great character development with Violet and Jagger, but there were times where I feel like some of the internal dialogue and exposition could be trimmed up a bit. Story was great, genuinily interesting and I can’t wait to see where the series goes next.
The audio book was produced by Dark Star Romance and it was absolutely fantastic. It was performed by a full cast including, Ava Monroe, Zach Lazar Hoffman, Vanessa Moyen, Ryan Pierson, Dani Soleil, E.M. Wylde, Cary Hite, and Skye Lark. Some of the voice actors played multiple parts and they brought different voices to each character.
My only big critque is with the cover. I don’t think it’s appropriate for a dark romance, especially this one because there are some heavy scenes in the book. I also think each narrator should be listed on the cover rather than “Narrated by Full Cast.”
Ruin Me by Kelsie Rae is the story of Violet and Jagger. It’s the classic tale of two people from opposite sides of the track brought together by circumstance, but with a dark romance twist. This is my be the slowest of slow burns, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Kelsie takes the time to build these two different worlds. There’s great character development with Violet and Jagger, but there were times where I feel like some of the internal dialogue and exposition could be trimmed up a bit. Story was great, genuinily interesting and I can’t wait to see where the series goes next.
The audio book was produced by Dark Star Romance and it was absolutely fantastic. It was performed by a full cast including, Ava Monroe, Zach Lazar Hoffman, Vanessa Moyen, Ryan Pierson, Dani Soleil, E.M. Wylde, Cary Hite, and Skye Lark. Some of the voice actors played multiple parts and they brought different voices to each character.
My only big critque is with the cover. I don’t think it’s appropriate for a dark romance, especially this one because there are some heavy scenes in the book. I also think each narrator should be listed on the cover rather than “Narrated by Full Cast.”
March 22, 2026
Kelsie Rae did it again. I loved Jagger and Violet’s journey. I also loved the surprise appearances from characters you might know from some of her other books.
Jagger is a Harden brother and basically royalty in Harden Heights. He has strict rules about how he operates his business with his brothers. One of them? All bets are final.
Violet lives in The Drift a markedly less affluent part of town. She is working at a coffee shop to pay her way through college. She has a run in with Jagger after her dad steals her whole savings and losing it on a bad bet.
She begs the Harden brothers for her money back and she got the company line. “All bets are final.” Desperate she sneaks into one of the Harden brother’s bedrooms to search for her cash.
Jagger catchers her in the act and foils her plan. Jagger has never felt bad about keeping money people gambled away…until now.
If you are looking for a contemporary romance with an underground fight club, intrigue, and a touch her and die MMC; Ruin Me is for you!
Thank you to Kelsie Rae for the eARC.
Jagger is a Harden brother and basically royalty in Harden Heights. He has strict rules about how he operates his business with his brothers. One of them? All bets are final.
Violet lives in The Drift a markedly less affluent part of town. She is working at a coffee shop to pay her way through college. She has a run in with Jagger after her dad steals her whole savings and losing it on a bad bet.
She begs the Harden brothers for her money back and she got the company line. “All bets are final.” Desperate she sneaks into one of the Harden brother’s bedrooms to search for her cash.
Jagger catchers her in the act and foils her plan. Jagger has never felt bad about keeping money people gambled away…until now.
If you are looking for a contemporary romance with an underground fight club, intrigue, and a touch her and die MMC; Ruin Me is for you!
Thank you to Kelsie Rae for the eARC.
April 15, 2026
Growing up the way she did, made Violet a survivor. She relies on herself and herself alone. So, when her hard-earned savings and her ticket to freedom are stolen, she will do whatever it takes to get it back. The problem is, Jagger is a survivor too and a fighter. He will protect his family and business no matter what the cost. He refuses to help her and Violet sees no other choice than to join the next game night to try and win her money back. There is so much more at stake than prize winnings though. Their lives and family safety hang in balance as well.
This is the first novel for me by this author. I have been wanting to read something by her for some time. When I saw Dark Star Romance was producing the audio version, I jumped at the chance to listen to the story. As usual, Dark Star produced a high-quality audio experience. The full cast of voice actors chosen really brought the characters to life. Ava Monroe really impressed me with her performance. There is an innocent quality to her tone that helped me relate to the character of Violet. But, she was also convincing when her character stood up for herself. There was also this noise she made, “mm-hmm” when Violet’s character agreed to something Jagger said and it was endearing.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content and violence. I rate this novel as five out of five stars for both the story and spice.
I received this ACL in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is the first novel for me by this author. I have been wanting to read something by her for some time. When I saw Dark Star Romance was producing the audio version, I jumped at the chance to listen to the story. As usual, Dark Star produced a high-quality audio experience. The full cast of voice actors chosen really brought the characters to life. Ava Monroe really impressed me with her performance. There is an innocent quality to her tone that helped me relate to the character of Violet. But, she was also convincing when her character stood up for herself. There was also this noise she made, “mm-hmm” when Violet’s character agreed to something Jagger said and it was endearing.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content and violence. I rate this novel as five out of five stars for both the story and spice.
I received this ACL in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 4, 2026
Don’t ask me how you do it, Little Thief, but you have a way of stealing all logic.” His icy gaze drops to my mouth. “You make me feel insane.”
I have been OBSESSED with Kelsie Rae books since the Don’t Let Me series and this new new series in a new place has started out a 10/10 with no hesitation!!
Jagger was perfect combination of complex, broody, mysterious & HOT! Their first encounter with each other set them both on fire and It was on from there!
Violet was not going to let her POS father define her life and I loved that fire in her and Jagger was willing to do what ever was needed for her to succeed but Ofcourse he had his share of trouble too.
The spice and banter between these two was probably my favorite from any Kelsie Rae book because there was so much tension!
The ending definitely leaves CRAVING THE NEXT BOOK LIKE A DRUG!! I am so ready!
I have been OBSESSED with Kelsie Rae books since the Don’t Let Me series and this new new series in a new place has started out a 10/10 with no hesitation!!
Jagger was perfect combination of complex, broody, mysterious & HOT! Their first encounter with each other set them both on fire and It was on from there!
Violet was not going to let her POS father define her life and I loved that fire in her and Jagger was willing to do what ever was needed for her to succeed but Ofcourse he had his share of trouble too.
The spice and banter between these two was probably my favorite from any Kelsie Rae book because there was so much tension!
The ending definitely leaves CRAVING THE NEXT BOOK LIKE A DRUG!! I am so ready!
March 30, 2026
I am new to Kelsie Rae, audio-wise. I loved the full cast narration. I love the dynamic between our MC and their separate connections to the side characters. I love how Jagger was a touch her and X MMC. Because Violet needed that kind of person in her corner. But I also loved the fight and sass. I can't wait for the next book, because I have so many questions! But Lexi and June's friendship with Violet had me laughing, too. But equally, the brothers' books are going to be so good.
April 10, 2026
I fell in love with this series, and it's only book one. The small town, right/wrong side of the tracks build up was great for Harden Heights. The slow-burning romance that got hot and spicy was just right.
Who hurt you is always a great line and Jagger just does it to perfection. Violet needs help but won't ask for it, but demands fairness. I love how hard she works to take care of herself.
The audiobook narration was spot on and the cast choices matched so well.
Who hurt you is always a great line and Jagger just does it to perfection. Violet needs help but won't ask for it, but demands fairness. I love how hard she works to take care of herself.
The audiobook narration was spot on and the cast choices matched so well.
April 9, 2026
OMG you have got to read this newest series by Kelsie. It was so freaking awesome. Strong yet vulnerable FMC. Protective fighter MMC. touch her and die vibes!!!!
May 18, 2026
I listened to the audiobook for Ruin Me and honestly got hooked way faster than I expected. The narrators did such a good job bringing Violet and Jagger to life that it made the tension between them feel even more intense.
The story itself had me fully invested from the beginning. Violet’s desperation to escape her situation felt raw and believable, and I really liked that she wasn’t written as a flawless heroine. She felt real, angry, stubborn, emotional, and trying her best to survive. Jagger was frustrating in the way all good morally gray love interests are, but the chemistry between them absolutely carried the story for me.
The audiobook pacing also made it super easy to binge. I kept finding excuses to keep listening because every chapter ended with something that pulled me in deeper. The underground fighting atmosphere, the tension between social classes, and all the drama surrounding the Harden brothers made the story feel addictive without becoming too over the top.
Overall though, this was such an entertaining listen. If you like audiobooks with strong chemistry, emotionally unavailable men, gritty romance vibes, and a little chaos mixed in, Ruin Me is definitely worth checking out.
The story itself had me fully invested from the beginning. Violet’s desperation to escape her situation felt raw and believable, and I really liked that she wasn’t written as a flawless heroine. She felt real, angry, stubborn, emotional, and trying her best to survive. Jagger was frustrating in the way all good morally gray love interests are, but the chemistry between them absolutely carried the story for me.
The audiobook pacing also made it super easy to binge. I kept finding excuses to keep listening because every chapter ended with something that pulled me in deeper. The underground fighting atmosphere, the tension between social classes, and all the drama surrounding the Harden brothers made the story feel addictive without becoming too over the top.
Overall though, this was such an entertaining listen. If you like audiobooks with strong chemistry, emotionally unavailable men, gritty romance vibes, and a little chaos mixed in, Ruin Me is definitely worth checking out.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews