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Connected: Nexus Realm Gate Series - Book 1
Not yet published
Expected 3 Nov 26Reina wakes in a gleaming city of wings and endless sun with only her name—and a sharp, punishing pain whenever she reaches for her past. The Nexians tell her she arrived through the Nexus Gate, that she’s safe now, but nothing about this place feels simple. Not the fractured memories haunting her. Not the ancient Soul Blade that answers only to her. And definitely not the two powerful males tied to her fate.
Lux, the High Reaper burdened with saving the Realms, keeps his distance—until Reina begins awakening parts of him he thought he lost centuries ago. Noch, the dark-winged outcast working from the shadows, claims he wants nothing to do with her… yet he’s the one who steps between her and every threat. Both would die to protect her. Both are drawn to her in ways none of them understand.
But when the Chains—echoes of forgotten lifetimes—reveal a war erased from history and a Dark King hunting across the cosmos for the Guardian he lost, Reina realizes the truth: she is the final key in a conflict that has spanned millennia. And the cost of remembering who she was may destroy who she is now.
To save the Realms—and the people she loves—Reina must choose between the life she’s building and the truth waiting in the darkness.
Because some souls are forged by love. Others are forged by war. And hers was forged by both.
‘Connected’ is a why choose adult fantasy romance.
Lux, the High Reaper burdened with saving the Realms, keeps his distance—until Reina begins awakening parts of him he thought he lost centuries ago. Noch, the dark-winged outcast working from the shadows, claims he wants nothing to do with her… yet he’s the one who steps between her and every threat. Both would die to protect her. Both are drawn to her in ways none of them understand.
But when the Chains—echoes of forgotten lifetimes—reveal a war erased from history and a Dark King hunting across the cosmos for the Guardian he lost, Reina realizes the truth: she is the final key in a conflict that has spanned millennia. And the cost of remembering who she was may destroy who she is now.
To save the Realms—and the people she loves—Reina must choose between the life she’s building and the truth waiting in the darkness.
Because some souls are forged by love. Others are forged by war. And hers was forged by both.
‘Connected’ is a why choose adult fantasy romance.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 3, 2026
About the author
Jessica Ruiz Villanueva
1 book7 followersJessica was born in Manatí, Puerto Rico and currently lives in Raleigh, North Carolina. When not writing, she works in healthcare. ‘Connected’ is her debut novel inspired by her love for anime, video games, and Romantasy (specifically the spicy kind).
In her free time, she crochets, reads, and games with her husband.
In her free time, she crochets, reads, and games with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 4, 2026
Yallllllllllllll.
I immediately LOVED Reina. Specifically, her wittiness. I truly felt like I could be in her inner circle - like we’d be best friends. Would I be as badass as her?
No. Because I’m not a badass. But the way she banters and is just so sarcastic - made me want to just be her friend.
And can we talk about her millenialisms?! lol
Shes clearly a 90s girl thrown into a realm that doesn’t understand how amazing the 90s were. And that just adds to the fun.
I love how she adapts and learns how strong she is. And she is strong.
Now that you know how awesome she is, let’s talk about the boys.
Lux. Luxy. Lux had me back in crescent city when I fell for Hunt Athalar.
Except I wasn’t in crescent city. I was in a realm of reapers and angels and Lux. “Don’t stop on my account.” 🥵🔥🌶️
Then enters Noch and yes he’s just as hot. And the spiciness with Noch…I’ll just leave it there.
The battles are battling.
The spice is spicy.
The banter kept me coming back.
And the end…
I won’t spoil it. But it was perfection.
You’ll want to read this book!
I immediately LOVED Reina. Specifically, her wittiness. I truly felt like I could be in her inner circle - like we’d be best friends. Would I be as badass as her?
No. Because I’m not a badass. But the way she banters and is just so sarcastic - made me want to just be her friend.
And can we talk about her millenialisms?! lol
Shes clearly a 90s girl thrown into a realm that doesn’t understand how amazing the 90s were. And that just adds to the fun.
I love how she adapts and learns how strong she is. And she is strong.
Now that you know how awesome she is, let’s talk about the boys.
Lux. Luxy. Lux had me back in crescent city when I fell for Hunt Athalar.
Except I wasn’t in crescent city. I was in a realm of reapers and angels and Lux. “Don’t stop on my account.” 🥵🔥🌶️
Then enters Noch and yes he’s just as hot. And the spiciness with Noch…I’ll just leave it there.
The battles are battling.
The spice is spicy.
The banter kept me coming back.
And the end…
I won’t spoil it. But it was perfection.
You’ll want to read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I became a part of the story and often felt as if I was Reina.
From the very first page, this book completely consumed me. It is the definition of a true page-turner—in the beginning, it was so hard to find a good place to stop and just go to bed! Jessica Ruiz Villanueva writes a world that is so incredibly immersive that I didn't just read the story; I lived it.
What I Loved:
Reina: I fell in love with her from the very beginning. Her spirit, her fight, and her brilliant ability to think outside the box completely drew me in. She is a phenomenal protagonist who you can't help but root for.
The Emotional Rollercoaster: The author took me through an absolute series of emotions. I was literally yelling and screaming at the book! The plot twists are absolutely unmatched and had me completely shook. Like, WHAT?!
The Romantic Dynamics: I am usually turned off when it comes to poly relationships in books, but Jessica managed to find the ultimate exception here. The unique soul-connection elements completely won me over, and I was 100% here for the beautiful bond that unfolds.
The Epic Finale: The ending was everything I could have hoped for and more! It delivers an unparalleled sense of justice that felt so incredibly satisfying. The stakes are high, the payoff is huge, and it leaves you completely breathless.
Final Thoughts:
This story is incredibly well-written, fast-paced, and filled with deep connections and jaw-dropping moments. If you want a book that will hold you captive from start to finish, this is it. I'm already desperate for the next one!
From the very first page, this book completely consumed me. It is the definition of a true page-turner—in the beginning, it was so hard to find a good place to stop and just go to bed! Jessica Ruiz Villanueva writes a world that is so incredibly immersive that I didn't just read the story; I lived it.
What I Loved:
Reina: I fell in love with her from the very beginning. Her spirit, her fight, and her brilliant ability to think outside the box completely drew me in. She is a phenomenal protagonist who you can't help but root for.
The Emotional Rollercoaster: The author took me through an absolute series of emotions. I was literally yelling and screaming at the book! The plot twists are absolutely unmatched and had me completely shook. Like, WHAT?!
The Romantic Dynamics: I am usually turned off when it comes to poly relationships in books, but Jessica managed to find the ultimate exception here. The unique soul-connection elements completely won me over, and I was 100% here for the beautiful bond that unfolds.
The Epic Finale: The ending was everything I could have hoped for and more! It delivers an unparalleled sense of justice that felt so incredibly satisfying. The stakes are high, the payoff is huge, and it leaves you completely breathless.
Final Thoughts:
This story is incredibly well-written, fast-paced, and filled with deep connections and jaw-dropping moments. If you want a book that will hold you captive from start to finish, this is it. I'm already desperate for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5 stars
I went into Connected expecting a good fantasy and came out emotionally attached to fictional men yet again.
This story had me hooked from the start. Every time I thought I knew where things were going, the plot took another turn and kept me guessing. There was always something new to uncover, and I never found myself losing interest or wanting to put it down.
But let’s talk about the MMCs because THEY were the real stars of this book for me. I loved them. Every single scene with them had me grinning, kicking my feet, and immediately needing more. If they told me we were marching into battle at dawn, I’d be lacing up my boots without asking questions.
My only real issue was the FMC. For someone who is literally millennia old, she often felt much younger than she should have. At times her maturity level didn’t quite match her age, which occasionally pulled me out of the story.
That said, the storyline was fantastic, the mystery kept me invested, and the characters completely won me over. I finished this book already desperate to get back to the Nexus Realm and spend more time with these characters.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two.
I went into Connected expecting a good fantasy and came out emotionally attached to fictional men yet again.
This story had me hooked from the start. Every time I thought I knew where things were going, the plot took another turn and kept me guessing. There was always something new to uncover, and I never found myself losing interest or wanting to put it down.
But let’s talk about the MMCs because THEY were the real stars of this book for me. I loved them. Every single scene with them had me grinning, kicking my feet, and immediately needing more. If they told me we were marching into battle at dawn, I’d be lacing up my boots without asking questions.
My only real issue was the FMC. For someone who is literally millennia old, she often felt much younger than she should have. At times her maturity level didn’t quite match her age, which occasionally pulled me out of the story.
That said, the storyline was fantastic, the mystery kept me invested, and the characters completely won me over. I finished this book already desperate to get back to the Nexus Realm and spend more time with these characters.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two.
June 19, 2026
𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙧
Just WOW. The storyline had me hooked from the beginning. I loved the way that I felt like I was THERE, it was very immersive & I appreciated all of the attention to detail. I felt connected to the characters & felt like I really got to know them. The twists & turns were unexpected & beautifully written! The pacing was perfect for me.
The MMCs are my favorite characters in this book. I love a good why choose, but normally I have my favorite & secretly root for them. The way that these characters are written was done so divinely that I loved both of them equally! I loved getting to know them & seeing their relationship with the FMC develop. The FMC is a badass woman who speaks her mind & loves & cares just as hard as she fights. Her personality is inviting & relatable! I grew attached to some of the supporting characters as well as I read about them!
The author did a wonderful job incorporating heritage into this book as well. I thought it was beautiful & deeply enjoyed those parts of the book.
I am obsessed & highly recommend! It’s a beautiful, wild ride & I’m already anticipating the next one! Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Just WOW. The storyline had me hooked from the beginning. I loved the way that I felt like I was THERE, it was very immersive & I appreciated all of the attention to detail. I felt connected to the characters & felt like I really got to know them. The twists & turns were unexpected & beautifully written! The pacing was perfect for me.
The MMCs are my favorite characters in this book. I love a good why choose, but normally I have my favorite & secretly root for them. The way that these characters are written was done so divinely that I loved both of them equally! I loved getting to know them & seeing their relationship with the FMC develop. The FMC is a badass woman who speaks her mind & loves & cares just as hard as she fights. Her personality is inviting & relatable! I grew attached to some of the supporting characters as well as I read about them!
The author did a wonderful job incorporating heritage into this book as well. I thought it was beautiful & deeply enjoyed those parts of the book.
I am obsessed & highly recommend! It’s a beautiful, wild ride & I’m already anticipating the next one! Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
WHAT AN ABSOLUTE MASTERPIECE!!!
The author has created a beautifully detailed world, with a complex magic system, political intrigue, and relatable characters that pull you in to the story. The timelines in this book are delicately interwoven and create a really fun reading experience, as well.
The FMC is incredibly capable and funny. She also shows intense vulnerability, which helped me connect with her emotionally throughout her journey. The MMCs are the perfect blend of supportive and protective. They have distinctive and intriguing personalities that blend in such a gorgeous way. The found family aspect, however, was my favorite. It gave me that warm fuzzy feeling in my chest on multiple occasions.
I can’t wait to get a physical copy on my shelf 😍
The author has created a beautifully detailed world, with a complex magic system, political intrigue, and relatable characters that pull you in to the story. The timelines in this book are delicately interwoven and create a really fun reading experience, as well.
The FMC is incredibly capable and funny. She also shows intense vulnerability, which helped me connect with her emotionally throughout her journey. The MMCs are the perfect blend of supportive and protective. They have distinctive and intriguing personalities that blend in such a gorgeous way. The found family aspect, however, was my favorite. It gave me that warm fuzzy feeling in my chest on multiple occasions.
I can’t wait to get a physical copy on my shelf 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you're a fan of ACOTAR or Quicksilver respectively, you *MIGHT* like this. The plot has very similar quirks to both of them.
If you can look past, the FMC being a full-blown Mary-Sue. And the many, many, many millennial coded phrases.
For example, but not limited to.
"What like it's hard?"
"Even though I'm only here so I don't get fined."
"Whoop, there it is."
"Not today, Satan."
"I don't know what you're smoking, but can I have some."
"?!" Punctuations
All of these are just the ones I found within the first 25% of the book...there were many, many more.
If you can look past all of that. The storyline is intriguing and holds interest fairly easily. The FMC can be quite annoying sometimes & one of the MMC's nicknames for her is....creature.
If you can look past, the FMC being a full-blown Mary-Sue. And the many, many, many millennial coded phrases.
For example, but not limited to.
"What like it's hard?"
"Even though I'm only here so I don't get fined."
"Whoop, there it is."
"Not today, Satan."
"I don't know what you're smoking, but can I have some."
"?!" Punctuations
All of these are just the ones I found within the first 25% of the book...there were many, many more.
If you can look past all of that. The storyline is intriguing and holds interest fairly easily. The FMC can be quite annoying sometimes & one of the MMC's nicknames for her is....creature.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2026
A well deserved 5* read!
Absolutely adored everything about this!
I was very fortunate to receive an ARC and savoured every moment of it.
Funnily, I had been craving some angelic, cosmic vibes for a while. When i stumbled upon this ARC opportunity I hadn’t thought much of it.
Only to be met with exactly what I needed!
This book blew me away, it quenched my spiritual soul in all the right ways.
A must read.
The split souls, the yearning and strength! Ugh, give me more Jessica! I am only disappointed that we didn’t get the connecting spice Noch & Lux teased me with haha but otherwise it was perfection. ❤️
Absolutely adored everything about this!
I was very fortunate to receive an ARC and savoured every moment of it.
Funnily, I had been craving some angelic, cosmic vibes for a while. When i stumbled upon this ARC opportunity I hadn’t thought much of it.
Only to be met with exactly what I needed!
This book blew me away, it quenched my spiritual soul in all the right ways.
A must read.
The split souls, the yearning and strength! Ugh, give me more Jessica! I am only disappointed that we didn’t get the connecting spice Noch & Lux teased me with haha but otherwise it was perfection. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book took me for a wild ride! JRV did a great job really making you feel like you were in her world. The FMC is a rockstar with a wicked talent for banter and the spice was top tier. This isn't like other Romantasies and it was truly a breath of fresh air seeing something different be introduced into the industry. Normally, I can predict what will happen in Romantasy books when I'm about half way in, but there were times I couldn't with this one and I lovedddddddd it! Looking forward to her future works!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a advanced reader copy of this book. THIS BOOK IS AMAZING! I have never read a 600 page book so fast. I flew through it giggling, crying, laughing. Reading spice at 1 am because i can't stop. Literally all the feels. Reina is sarcastic and witty *chefs kiss*. Lux and Noch obsessed although I do have to say im Team Lux 100%! Still dream about him! 10/10 Need book two now.
I can't wait for book two!
I can't wait for book two!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Connected is a unique portal fantasy romance! FMC Reina is a sassy Latina who doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind and keeps everyone around her on their toes. MMCs Lux and Noch are mysterious in a way that instantly pulls you in. The banter is so much fun, and the world-building—from the phenotypes and magic system to the storyline itself—is thoughtfully crafted and keeps you wanting more. A fabulous debut from JRV!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for a review.
What can I say about this book? The banter was great. I love Lux!
Reina is a sassy FMC who says exactly what's on her mind and keeps everyone around her on their toes. Lux and Noch were both incredibly well written, and their mysterious vibes had me hooked right from the beginning. The storyline was a fresh take.
Thank you for the ARC!
What can I say about this book? The banter was great. I love Lux!
Reina is a sassy FMC who says exactly what's on her mind and keeps everyone around her on their toes. Lux and Noch were both incredibly well written, and their mysterious vibes had me hooked right from the beginning. The storyline was a fresh take.
Thank you for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is gonna be the next BookTok hit! A new fantasy world, with unique magic (but not too complicated) and a badass FMC. She is a sassy, fierce Latina and not afraid to speak her mind… literally. 😂
This will have you laughing, crying, and 🥵🥵 (ifykyk). The twooooo MMCs are also on par with some of our other favorite book boyfriends. 😉 Seriously, go read this
This will have you laughing, crying, and 🥵🥵 (ifykyk). The twooooo MMCs are also on par with some of our other favorite book boyfriends. 😉 Seriously, go read this
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is amazing. I believe I consumed this book in less than a few days, I loved every second of it.
The characters were really sassy and fun, the banter is top-notch, the MMC is so hot.
Everything about this book is amazing, and I keep recommending it to ppl. EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT.
The characters were really sassy and fun, the banter is top-notch, the MMC is so hot.
Everything about this book is amazing, and I keep recommending it to ppl. EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews