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A Study in Ruin: A Spicy Dark Romance
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 11, 2026
i really wanted to like this but the smut is like it was written by a 13 year old
June 10, 2026
The perfect combination of Mystery and Romance with a touch of Paranormal. In this book you meet Iris Blackthorne whos invited to Ashcroft University on a scholarship. Her life prior to this wasn't the best one would live. In this book you will follow her through new friends, A Forbidden Love, and something evil within the school thats been lurking for decades. The atmosphere in this book is both eerie and beautiful at the same time. The Mmc has a backstory that is dark but he still remains the same throughout everything he's been through. If you love Ghosts, Professor/ Student Relationships, and a mystery that'll keep you on the edge of your seat then this is the book for you. I highly recommend!! I recieved this as an arc via the author and this is my voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An amazing debut novel with mystery, dark romance and captivating characters. Set in the remote Ashworth college this book follows the story of Archer and Iris. Both with troubled backgrounds they come together as a darkness closes in on this university. A danger that can pull them together or push them apart... Definitely give this book a read, you won't be disappointed.
June 14, 2026
I have a HUGE problem with this book and I tried really really hard to ignore it because the story is not bad. However, here I am, telling you I just can’t ignore what I’m seeing and feeling. It’s about a student/professor forbidden romance, that’s for sure. Then why do I get the vibes that he is forcing her into a relationship with him?!
From the beginning, she is a girl who finally found friends and is happy with being in that university. There is nothing going on in her mind OTHER than pleasing her teachers. She really liked what professor Locke was teaching and her mind is a wonderful place to be when they have lessons because the girl is really smart. So find me surprised and a little bit worried when I get into Archer Locke’s, the professor’s mind and see him drowning in lust for his innocent student.
She has no thoughts about him other than him being handsome and that’s all. She thinks of him as her professor, nothing more. The turning point is when boys in her class is trying to hurt and maybe rape her? so the professor is there and he saves her. Being the grateful kind person she is, she follows him when he told her to follow him. It’s there he shows his true colours and I even got a little bit disappointed because he started touching her and she is like “what are you doing” and he tells her he can’t stay away from her AFTER SEEING HER TWO OR THREE TIMES!
The creepy thing is, he thinks she wants him back but when you mix in the situation she was in when he saved her and her being scared, he is basically taking advantage of the situation and doing even worse thing to the girl than those boys would. So you save her to force her to be with you? Because all I’m seeing is someone manipulating the other one into thinking they want the same things!
She runs away, thank God or I would have been so mad AND HE STILL COMES AFTER HER!! The next lesson they have, he stops her and then again touches her and she starts thinking she wants him back when in fact, he is just forcing something to happen between them because he is turned on every time he sees her. See my fucking dilemma??!!
No, I don’t think she wants him or likes him.
Yes, I think he manipulated her into thinking she wants him.
Yes, he was playing a game of cat and mouse with her so she would become attached.
No, he didn’t even try to resist his lust for her, saying over and over again that his control is nonexistent.
Yes, she becomes wet, but at the same time, why do I get a feeling she just wants to please him because she has been through so much in life and no one was kind enough to be there for her, thinking her crazy because she sees ghosts and maybe that’s why she becomes more attached to him because everyone thinks he is mad too?????
Nope, I’m out. He is too creepy for my taste and I hate manipulation when it comes to forbidden romance. It’s already bad that they start having feelings for each other when they are not supposed to, which is the part we all want to read about, sue us but I draw a line when it comes to FORCING someone into believing they want this kind of relationship.
Your choice, but I don’t recommend this book (sorry for the long review).
From the beginning, she is a girl who finally found friends and is happy with being in that university. There is nothing going on in her mind OTHER than pleasing her teachers. She really liked what professor Locke was teaching and her mind is a wonderful place to be when they have lessons because the girl is really smart. So find me surprised and a little bit worried when I get into Archer Locke’s, the professor’s mind and see him drowning in lust for his innocent student.
She has no thoughts about him other than him being handsome and that’s all. She thinks of him as her professor, nothing more. The turning point is when boys in her class is trying to hurt and maybe rape her? so the professor is there and he saves her. Being the grateful kind person she is, she follows him when he told her to follow him. It’s there he shows his true colours and I even got a little bit disappointed because he started touching her and she is like “what are you doing” and he tells her he can’t stay away from her AFTER SEEING HER TWO OR THREE TIMES!
The creepy thing is, he thinks she wants him back but when you mix in the situation she was in when he saved her and her being scared, he is basically taking advantage of the situation and doing even worse thing to the girl than those boys would. So you save her to force her to be with you? Because all I’m seeing is someone manipulating the other one into thinking they want the same things!
She runs away, thank God or I would have been so mad AND HE STILL COMES AFTER HER!! The next lesson they have, he stops her and then again touches her and she starts thinking she wants him back when in fact, he is just forcing something to happen between them because he is turned on every time he sees her. See my fucking dilemma??!!
No, I don’t think she wants him or likes him.
Yes, I think he manipulated her into thinking she wants him.
Yes, he was playing a game of cat and mouse with her so she would become attached.
No, he didn’t even try to resist his lust for her, saying over and over again that his control is nonexistent.
Yes, she becomes wet, but at the same time, why do I get a feeling she just wants to please him because she has been through so much in life and no one was kind enough to be there for her, thinking her crazy because she sees ghosts and maybe that’s why she becomes more attached to him because everyone thinks he is mad too?????
Nope, I’m out. He is too creepy for my taste and I hate manipulation when it comes to forbidden romance. It’s already bad that they start having feelings for each other when they are not supposed to, which is the part we all want to read about, sue us but I draw a line when it comes to FORCING someone into believing they want this kind of relationship.
Your choice, but I don’t recommend this book (sorry for the long review).
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW:
First, thank you to the author for the ARC and for bringing this story to life.
If I could convince you to read this book with a single word, it would be the one written in Chapter 42:
“Fuck.”
A Study in Ruin is the first book in a standalone series set within an interconnected world, and what a way to begin.
The story follows Iris, a scholarship student at Ashcroft University. She’s always felt like an outsider, different, isolated, and never quite fitting in. That begins to change when she meets her roommate, Andora. The two quickly become inseparable, along with Andora’s boyfriend, Rory, who help Iris navigate university life and finally feel like she belongs.
Then comes Moral Philosophy.
There, Iris meets Archer—a brooding professor with a dark past. Their chemistry is immediate, magnetic, and impossible to ignore. The romance is filled with tension, power dynamics, undeniable attraction, and lines that will have readers kicking their feet and screaming into the void.
But romance isn’t the only thing brewing at Ashcroft.
As Iris begins experiencing strange visions and glimpses of things she wishes she couldn’t see, she finds herself unraveling a mystery hidden deep within the university’s walls. Missing students, secret societies, buried truths, and the realization that people are not always what they seem pull her further into the darkness.
This book kept me completely unhinged and guessing until the final 100 pages. Every time I thought I had the answers, another twist sent me spiraling in a different direction.
With plenty of spice, a compelling mystery, supernatural elements, and characters I couldn’t stop thinking about, I devoured this book in two days.
If you love dark academia, forbidden romance, secret societies, supernatural mysteries, and plot twists that leave you staring at the wall afterward, add this one to your TBR immediately. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
First, thank you to the author for the ARC and for bringing this story to life.
If I could convince you to read this book with a single word, it would be the one written in Chapter 42:
“Fuck.”
A Study in Ruin is the first book in a standalone series set within an interconnected world, and what a way to begin.
The story follows Iris, a scholarship student at Ashcroft University. She’s always felt like an outsider, different, isolated, and never quite fitting in. That begins to change when she meets her roommate, Andora. The two quickly become inseparable, along with Andora’s boyfriend, Rory, who help Iris navigate university life and finally feel like she belongs.
Then comes Moral Philosophy.
There, Iris meets Archer—a brooding professor with a dark past. Their chemistry is immediate, magnetic, and impossible to ignore. The romance is filled with tension, power dynamics, undeniable attraction, and lines that will have readers kicking their feet and screaming into the void.
But romance isn’t the only thing brewing at Ashcroft.
As Iris begins experiencing strange visions and glimpses of things she wishes she couldn’t see, she finds herself unraveling a mystery hidden deep within the university’s walls. Missing students, secret societies, buried truths, and the realization that people are not always what they seem pull her further into the darkness.
This book kept me completely unhinged and guessing until the final 100 pages. Every time I thought I had the answers, another twist sent me spiraling in a different direction.
With plenty of spice, a compelling mystery, supernatural elements, and characters I couldn’t stop thinking about, I devoured this book in two days.
If you love dark academia, forbidden romance, secret societies, supernatural mysteries, and plot twists that leave you staring at the wall afterward, add this one to your TBR immediately. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the ARC. A Study in Ruin by Abbey Tonkinson definitely delivered the dark academia atmosphere I was hoping for—secretive elite school vibes, tension, forbidden attraction, mystery, and that constant feeling that something is slightly off underneath it all. The mood of this book really carried me through the story, and honestly, I read it in one sitting because I didn’t want to put it down.
I really enjoyed the dual POV between Iris and Archer because it helped balance the story well and gave more perspective to their dynamic. Their relationship had all the elements I usually love—forbidden, age gap tension, emotional messiness—but I honestly wish there had been a bit more buildup and development before everything went fully all in. I wanted more backstory on both of them individually too because there were moments where I felt like I was trying to catch up emotionally instead of fully understanding them from the start.
The pacing overall kept me invested, and I liked the darker mystery woven throughout the academic setting. There’s a very addictive quality to the atmosphere and unraveling secrets that makes it easy to keep reading.
But Chapter 42? Absolutely took me out for a minute because HOW is the world that small? While it did take a bit from the moment and chaos that was happening, it was a hit I didn't expect.
Overall though, I still really enjoyed this. If you love dark academia, forbidden romance, morally messy characters, and atmospheric mystery, this is definitely worth picking up—even if I wanted a little more development in some areas. I'd love to see more from this author!
I really enjoyed the dual POV between Iris and Archer because it helped balance the story well and gave more perspective to their dynamic. Their relationship had all the elements I usually love—forbidden, age gap tension, emotional messiness—but I honestly wish there had been a bit more buildup and development before everything went fully all in. I wanted more backstory on both of them individually too because there were moments where I felt like I was trying to catch up emotionally instead of fully understanding them from the start.
The pacing overall kept me invested, and I liked the darker mystery woven throughout the academic setting. There’s a very addictive quality to the atmosphere and unraveling secrets that makes it easy to keep reading.
But Chapter 42? Absolutely took me out for a minute because HOW is the world that small? While it did take a bit from the moment and chaos that was happening, it was a hit I didn't expect.
Overall though, I still really enjoyed this. If you love dark academia, forbidden romance, morally messy characters, and atmospheric mystery, this is definitely worth picking up—even if I wanted a little more development in some areas. I'd love to see more from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
(4.5 stars)
Thank you, Abbey, for the ARC (available June 10, 2026).
This book has the perfect mixture of mystery and romance!
Iris Blackthorne is invited to attend Ashcroft Univeristy on a scholarship. After leading a lonely life, she finally finds friendship and love, but something sinister is lurking in the shadows of this school and she might be the only person who will be able to uncover what’s really happening behind the scenes.
Iris has always been ostracized her entire life, but that doesn’t stop her from being determined and seeing the best in others. She quickly becomes friends with her roommate Adora and the two work together to try to figure out what’s causing students to go missing from the university every year. She also is intelligent, and excels in one of the hardest classes offered at the school taught by a mysterious, but very alluring professor named Archer Locke.
Where do I even begin with Archer? I’m obviously adding him to my list of favorite blonde/white haired MMCs 😏 He’s aloof and seen as a particularly strict professor by most of the students. But Iris sees him differently. She and Archer begin a whirlwind romance that is full of endearing moments, as well as some very hot encounters 🥵
I loved the spooky vibes of the setting, the found family Iris creates, and let’s not forget the cutest cat companion named Boo! This book is full of twists and turns that keep you on your toes and second guessing who you can trust. It’s a great, fast paced debut and wraps up nicely (but there is a book 2 to keep your eye out for!) 👀
Thank you, Abbey, for the ARC (available June 10, 2026).
This book has the perfect mixture of mystery and romance!
Iris Blackthorne is invited to attend Ashcroft Univeristy on a scholarship. After leading a lonely life, she finally finds friendship and love, but something sinister is lurking in the shadows of this school and she might be the only person who will be able to uncover what’s really happening behind the scenes.
Iris has always been ostracized her entire life, but that doesn’t stop her from being determined and seeing the best in others. She quickly becomes friends with her roommate Adora and the two work together to try to figure out what’s causing students to go missing from the university every year. She also is intelligent, and excels in one of the hardest classes offered at the school taught by a mysterious, but very alluring professor named Archer Locke.
Where do I even begin with Archer? I’m obviously adding him to my list of favorite blonde/white haired MMCs 😏 He’s aloof and seen as a particularly strict professor by most of the students. But Iris sees him differently. She and Archer begin a whirlwind romance that is full of endearing moments, as well as some very hot encounters 🥵
I loved the spooky vibes of the setting, the found family Iris creates, and let’s not forget the cutest cat companion named Boo! This book is full of twists and turns that keep you on your toes and second guessing who you can trust. It’s a great, fast paced debut and wraps up nicely (but there is a book 2 to keep your eye out for!) 👀
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a really well written book, especially considering it was a debut novel. The writing style was easy to get into from the very beginning, and the pacing made it a quick and enjoyable read overall. It balanced mystery and fantasy elements nicely, making it a refreshing break between longer fantasy series.
One of the standout aspects for me was the amount of unexpected twists throughout the story. Just when I felt comfortable predicting where things were heading, the plot shifted in ways I genuinely didn’t expect, which kept me engaged the entire time.
That being said, I personally felt the characters could have benefited from a little more development. While the story moved at a strong pace, I would have loved more time spent building deeper emotional connections with the characters and understanding their motivations more fully.
I also discovered through reading this that ghost themed books may simply not be my preferred genre. Although the supernatural elements were written well, I found it harder to connect with that aspect of the story personally. In addition, readers looking for heavy romance or “spice” should know that you may want to be sat comfortably for this one!
Overall, this was an impressive debut with strong writing, entertaining twists, and an easy reading style. Even though some elements weren’t entirely suited to my personal tastes, I can absolutely appreciate the creativity and talent behind it, and I’d still recommend it to readers who enjoy lighter fantasy with supernatural mystery elements.
One of the standout aspects for me was the amount of unexpected twists throughout the story. Just when I felt comfortable predicting where things were heading, the plot shifted in ways I genuinely didn’t expect, which kept me engaged the entire time.
That being said, I personally felt the characters could have benefited from a little more development. While the story moved at a strong pace, I would have loved more time spent building deeper emotional connections with the characters and understanding their motivations more fully.
I also discovered through reading this that ghost themed books may simply not be my preferred genre. Although the supernatural elements were written well, I found it harder to connect with that aspect of the story personally. In addition, readers looking for heavy romance or “spice” should know that you may want to be sat comfortably for this one!
Overall, this was an impressive debut with strong writing, entertaining twists, and an easy reading style. Even though some elements weren’t entirely suited to my personal tastes, I can absolutely appreciate the creativity and talent behind it, and I’d still recommend it to readers who enjoy lighter fantasy with supernatural mystery elements.
June 14, 2026
genuinely? i don’t know how this has good reviews.
i will give 2 stars, PURELY for the well written mystery and intrigue. The romance? if you can even call it that, was horrible.
Beyond a tiny snippet into archers past in the prologue, there is ZERO character depth with him at all. Their chemistry is none existent. Iris basically said yeah he’s attractive at the beginning meanwhile he seems like a predator who forces himself on her. Unnecessary, poorly written and therefore the smut is unbearable and i had to skim just to get through it.
i LOVE a good smut - with characters who are actually written well and it feels right, this felt forced. I was hoping for a professor x student relationship like nocticadia and this just wasn’t even in the same realm. Archer is icky, his POV’s are pointless up until the end.
Now, “romance” aside, this book was promising. i loved the writing and the description. it was almost a gothic style and the mystery was the only thing keeping me interested. Was it predictable? absofuckinglutely. Cults have been done SO many times and this was nothing new. Ngl the whole “seeing ghosts” thing just felt like a sloppy way to move along the story which became incredibly unrealistic towards the end. dare i say the first 40% was actually more enjoyable than the last 60% and that’s saying a lot.
Adora was nice, she gave enid vibes from wednesday.
overall, it had promise and completely crashed and burnt. i probably won’t revisit this author, im glad it was only 350 pages.
i will give 2 stars, PURELY for the well written mystery and intrigue. The romance? if you can even call it that, was horrible.
Beyond a tiny snippet into archers past in the prologue, there is ZERO character depth with him at all. Their chemistry is none existent. Iris basically said yeah he’s attractive at the beginning meanwhile he seems like a predator who forces himself on her. Unnecessary, poorly written and therefore the smut is unbearable and i had to skim just to get through it.
i LOVE a good smut - with characters who are actually written well and it feels right, this felt forced. I was hoping for a professor x student relationship like nocticadia and this just wasn’t even in the same realm. Archer is icky, his POV’s are pointless up until the end.
Now, “romance” aside, this book was promising. i loved the writing and the description. it was almost a gothic style and the mystery was the only thing keeping me interested. Was it predictable? absofuckinglutely. Cults have been done SO many times and this was nothing new. Ngl the whole “seeing ghosts” thing just felt like a sloppy way to move along the story which became incredibly unrealistic towards the end. dare i say the first 40% was actually more enjoyable than the last 60% and that’s saying a lot.
Adora was nice, she gave enid vibes from wednesday.
overall, it had promise and completely crashed and burnt. i probably won’t revisit this author, im glad it was only 350 pages.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My loooord!! I LOVED this book and just when I thought I had it - the rug was pulled out from beneath me. I thought I could see where it was going and was so genuinely surprised that I audibly gasped! A real page turner!
I loved seeing Iris grow throughout the book. The found family aspect is one of my favourite parts of this story and that definitely includes Boo the Ghost Cat!!! What a special little guy who swooped in and stole all our hearts.
I really enjoyed the eerie atmosphere that was created in both the grounds and the university. There were a few moments I found myself looking up and over the page to check my own surroundings…
It made Adora all the warmer in contrast. I think I speak for all of us readers so far that she must be protected at all costs! What a beautiful, wonderful friend whom I wish I could bestow upon everybody.
As for Archer? He’s an interesting guy with quite the dark backstory but he doesn’t allow it to fully change him as a person.
Also, I fancy him.
I implore you to read the book to get on board with our new book boyfriend. 11/10 my friends.
I’m always down a dark academia and highly recommend this one. A wonderful job for a debut novel. The mystery had me hooked from the get go. If you love spice, mystery, and bumbling best friends then this should definitely be next on your TBR! I’m already hyped for book 2!!!
I loved seeing Iris grow throughout the book. The found family aspect is one of my favourite parts of this story and that definitely includes Boo the Ghost Cat!!! What a special little guy who swooped in and stole all our hearts.
I really enjoyed the eerie atmosphere that was created in both the grounds and the university. There were a few moments I found myself looking up and over the page to check my own surroundings…
It made Adora all the warmer in contrast. I think I speak for all of us readers so far that she must be protected at all costs! What a beautiful, wonderful friend whom I wish I could bestow upon everybody.
As for Archer? He’s an interesting guy with quite the dark backstory but he doesn’t allow it to fully change him as a person.
Also, I fancy him.
I implore you to read the book to get on board with our new book boyfriend. 11/10 my friends.
I’m always down a dark academia and highly recommend this one. A wonderful job for a debut novel. The mystery had me hooked from the get go. If you love spice, mystery, and bumbling best friends then this should definitely be next on your TBR! I’m already hyped for book 2!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved A Study in Ruin. This book had me completely hooked and I ended up devouring it in less than 48 hours. I've actually reread it since because I just wasn't ready to leave these characters behind.
Iris was such a great FMC and I loved seeing her grow throughout the story. Her ability to see ghosts added such a unique layer to the story, and I really enjoyed watching her gain confidence and come into her own as everything unfolded. The mystery kept me guessing the entire time, every time I thought I'd worked out what was going on, I was completely wrong. I genuinely never knew what twist was coming next.
I also loved the balance of everything in this book. The romance, mystery, paranormal elements, humour and spice all worked so well together, and none of it felt like it overshadowed anything else. Adora was an absolute ray of sunshine and had me smiling every time she appeared on the page. Archer... well, let's just say I very much understood the appeal. 🤭 And Boo the ghost cat deserves a special mention because I adored him.
There were so many moments that had me chuckling away, but there were also scenes that had me desperate to keep turning pages to find out what happened next. You can really tell how much time, love and effort has gone into this story. It felt like one of those books that gets under your skin and stays with you afterwards. Also... chapter 42. WOWEE. If you've read it, you know. 🤭🔥
Such a fun, addictive read and one I'd highly recommend if you love romance, mystery/ thriller, paranormal vibes and twists that keep you on your toes. I can't wait to see what this author brings out next!
Iris was such a great FMC and I loved seeing her grow throughout the story. Her ability to see ghosts added such a unique layer to the story, and I really enjoyed watching her gain confidence and come into her own as everything unfolded. The mystery kept me guessing the entire time, every time I thought I'd worked out what was going on, I was completely wrong. I genuinely never knew what twist was coming next.
I also loved the balance of everything in this book. The romance, mystery, paranormal elements, humour and spice all worked so well together, and none of it felt like it overshadowed anything else. Adora was an absolute ray of sunshine and had me smiling every time she appeared on the page. Archer... well, let's just say I very much understood the appeal. 🤭 And Boo the ghost cat deserves a special mention because I adored him.
There were so many moments that had me chuckling away, but there were also scenes that had me desperate to keep turning pages to find out what happened next. You can really tell how much time, love and effort has gone into this story. It felt like one of those books that gets under your skin and stays with you afterwards. Also... chapter 42. WOWEE. If you've read it, you know. 🤭🔥
Such a fun, addictive read and one I'd highly recommend if you love romance, mystery/ thriller, paranormal vibes and twists that keep you on your toes. I can't wait to see what this author brings out next!
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June 3, 2026I really enjoyed the book and the story flowed and was easy to follow. The "bully romance" trope is absolutely everywhere right now and loved that there was only one scene/character that covered this. I did feel that the characters could have been development more. That opportunities were missed to develop the back stories.
Felt at times that the MMC was grooming the FMC rather than loving her which I felt was a bit out of place the vulnerability of the FMC. When the MMC pushed the boundaries, the line between "protective passion" and "manipulative grooming" got incredibly blurry. It felt like this was a shortcut to get to the sex scenes, rather than letting their intimacy grow naturally out of genuine character development. When the "spice" takes priority over the substance, the relationship can end up feeling hollow or uncomfortable. I did feel that this was more for the sex scenes.
Good twists – the first caught me complete unawares, and the second was easier to guess at, but only at the last moment.
Felt at times that the MMC was grooming the FMC rather than loving her which I felt was a bit out of place the vulnerability of the FMC. When the MMC pushed the boundaries, the line between "protective passion" and "manipulative grooming" got incredibly blurry. It felt like this was a shortcut to get to the sex scenes, rather than letting their intimacy grow naturally out of genuine character development. When the "spice" takes priority over the substance, the relationship can end up feeling hollow or uncomfortable. I did feel that this was more for the sex scenes.
Good twists – the first caught me complete unawares, and the second was easier to guess at, but only at the last moment.
May 21, 2026
A study in ruin is a dual POV gothic romantasy that follows Iris, a young woman in search of a new start, who can’t deny her attraction to her Moral Philosophy Professor. Their relationship blossoms, whilst they uncover a dark secret hiding within the walls of the old school.
From the onset the writing is immersive and moody, the imagery is rich and I adored the creepy chapters and the ghosts immensely.
The romance was morally grey, obsessive and wildly endearing - the spice was constantly evolving with the characters as their bond of trust deepened, so did their physical connection. Some truly romantic quotes were highlighted while reading (and many naughty ones!)
You know the story is good when you fall for one of the side characters. Adora had my heart from her very first outburst of love for pastries. A cute little black cat sidekick too? What’s not to love?!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this early copy to review.
From the onset the writing is immersive and moody, the imagery is rich and I adored the creepy chapters and the ghosts immensely.
The romance was morally grey, obsessive and wildly endearing - the spice was constantly evolving with the characters as their bond of trust deepened, so did their physical connection. Some truly romantic quotes were highlighted while reading (and many naughty ones!)
You know the story is good when you fall for one of the side characters. Adora had my heart from her very first outburst of love for pastries. A cute little black cat sidekick too? What’s not to love?!
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this early copy to review.
June 16, 2026
For a debut, this is pretty solid, with some odd, out-of-place word choices here and there if I was being super picky (I think her "climax" at one point is described as "reaching her pinnacle" which then made me think of Bridgerton too much).
I ate the whole paranormal mystery element of it up. The opening was really well done and made me think of Nightshade - a book I loved earlier this year. Adora was also such a bright bubby character planted in the grim, gothic setting of it all and I'd love a book all about her tbh.
I will say I wasn't sold on the romance at alllll, which is where this book lost me. I felt like Iris and Archer didn't have much chemistry - maybe I'm just bored of insta-lust/love.
I ate the whole paranormal mystery element of it up. The opening was really well done and made me think of Nightshade - a book I loved earlier this year. Adora was also such a bright bubby character planted in the grim, gothic setting of it all and I'd love a book all about her tbh.
I will say I wasn't sold on the romance at alllll, which is where this book lost me. I felt like Iris and Archer didn't have much chemistry - maybe I'm just bored of insta-lust/love.
July 11, 2026
A brilliant first book. I loved the characters and the plot concept. I do however think SO much more could’ve been done with it. I was disappointed at the lack of depth to it. Also - really not that spicy to be honest. Infact, compared to every other dark romance I’ve read, this was MILD. I also got the ick a little at how quickly Archer became vulnerable with Iris… His ‘hard/scary’ persona wasn’t really a thing unless it was the short scenes of him pretending to others. Their love story at the beginning sorta gave ‘insta love’… there wasn’t enough development, it was just like.. oh hey yep I like the look of you and now I’m in love with you for no other reason than you’re attractive.
Alas, I still loved it. I enjoyed it all. Also didn’t see the plot twist coming ;)
Alas, I still loved it. I enjoyed it all. Also didn’t see the plot twist coming ;)
June 6, 2026
I absolutely loved A Study in Ruin. It pulled me in from the first chapter and I couldn’t put it down. Iris was such a compelling FMC, and I loved watching her grow as the mystery unfolded. The paranormal elements added a unique twist, and the plot kept me guessing until the very end.
The balance of romance, mystery, humour, and suspense was spot on. Adora was a delight, Boo the ghost cat completely stole my heart, and Archer definitely lived up to the hype. Every chapter left me wanting more, and a certain late-book chapter had me completely speechless.
A gripping, addictive read that stayed with me long after I finished it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and one I’d definitely recommend
The balance of romance, mystery, humour, and suspense was spot on. Adora was a delight, Boo the ghost cat completely stole my heart, and Archer definitely lived up to the hype. Every chapter left me wanting more, and a certain late-book chapter had me completely speechless.
A gripping, addictive read that stayed with me long after I finished it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and one I’d definitely recommend
Review of advance copy
After being lucky enough to be a ARC Reader for this novel I was completely blown away.
With an addictive power dynamic between Iris and Archer you can’t help but keep turning the page, filled with mystery and plot twists this book will really keep you hooked! There is no slow burning to be seen at Ashcroft University.
From falling in love with Adora to rooting for Iris and Boo, be prepared for a long, spicy reading session
I cannot wait to see what else is to come from this thrilling and upcoming author
With an addictive power dynamic between Iris and Archer you can’t help but keep turning the page, filled with mystery and plot twists this book will really keep you hooked! There is no slow burning to be seen at Ashcroft University.
From falling in love with Adora to rooting for Iris and Boo, be prepared for a long, spicy reading session
I cannot wait to see what else is to come from this thrilling and upcoming author
July 6, 2026
3.5⭐️
I have mixed feelings on this book! Overall I liked it, I read it in one day I clearly really liked it! It has all the tropes I love.
The romance just happened so quickly. Obsessed by looking at each other. And ‘can’t be together’ yet they don’t really know each other. An extra 50 pages of just more interactions and getting to know each other would have made this book sooo much better.
Dark back stories, found family, hidden society, professor/ student. Loved it! Just a couple of things could have been made better
I have mixed feelings on this book! Overall I liked it, I read it in one day I clearly really liked it! It has all the tropes I love.
The romance just happened so quickly. Obsessed by looking at each other. And ‘can’t be together’ yet they don’t really know each other. An extra 50 pages of just more interactions and getting to know each other would have made this book sooo much better.
Dark back stories, found family, hidden society, professor/ student. Loved it! Just a couple of things could have been made better
July 7, 2026
Spoilers ahead!
Ok so i did enjoy it as a light read. But a dark academia BDSM novel? Not really. It was set in a university but not much reference to dark academia. There was no SM and only very light ann summers level BD. If i could say anything to the author it would be to take out the sex scenes so you can market this as a YA romantacy novel. It didn’t go anywhere near as far as my usual bdsm reads do, so honestly i would have left it out. Not bad for a first novel but yeah, i think minus the sex, 16-18 yo YA would be more the target market for this novel.
Ok so i did enjoy it as a light read. But a dark academia BDSM novel? Not really. It was set in a university but not much reference to dark academia. There was no SM and only very light ann summers level BD. If i could say anything to the author it would be to take out the sex scenes so you can market this as a YA romantacy novel. It didn’t go anywhere near as far as my usual bdsm reads do, so honestly i would have left it out. Not bad for a first novel but yeah, i think minus the sex, 16-18 yo YA would be more the target market for this novel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wish you could mix One Dark Window with Phantasma and add a student/teacher romance like Aria&Ezra from Pretty Little Liars but spicier?
A Study in Ruin has the most beautiful combination of eerie, atmospheric writing, along with passion, spice and a gripping mystery. Oh, and a cat called Boo.
You wouldn't believe Abbey Tonkinson is a debut author. I read this so quickly, not being able to think of anything else. This book has you smiling, laughing and crying along with the characters and my jaw dropped with each twist.
My heart rate spiked for the creepy tension and the spicy scenes both. Let's just say I would LOVE to take a moral philosophy class with a professor like Archer. And that greenhouse description?!
I could go on and on as I am OBSESSED with this book, but go pick it up for yourself and support a debut indie author.
Step into the paranormal, the professor is waiting...
A Study in Ruin has the most beautiful combination of eerie, atmospheric writing, along with passion, spice and a gripping mystery. Oh, and a cat called Boo.
You wouldn't believe Abbey Tonkinson is a debut author. I read this so quickly, not being able to think of anything else. This book has you smiling, laughing and crying along with the characters and my jaw dropped with each twist.
My heart rate spiked for the creepy tension and the spicy scenes both. Let's just say I would LOVE to take a moral philosophy class with a professor like Archer. And that greenhouse description?!
I could go on and on as I am OBSESSED with this book, but go pick it up for yourself and support a debut indie author.
Step into the paranormal, the professor is waiting...
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an absolute rollercoaster of a book and a brilliant debut!!!
Non stop action, fun and a healthy dose of smut.
I loved the friendship between Iris and Adora and can't want to see what the next book brings for them. I also really enjoyed the mixture of romance and mystery. A mystery which might I add kept me guessing till the end.
Will definitely read the next book as soon as I can.
Non stop action, fun and a healthy dose of smut.
I loved the friendship between Iris and Adora and can't want to see what the next book brings for them. I also really enjoyed the mixture of romance and mystery. A mystery which might I add kept me guessing till the end.
Will definitely read the next book as soon as I can.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book has it all… great dark academia, and 🔥 professor/student trope. Great spice. Great banter, between the two main characters, but also between all the characters that interact the most. And a wonderful twist that starts with just the FMC, but soon somehow involves or interconnects most of them. I loved it, then hated it with my heart in my throat, then loved it again. Cannot wait for book 2!!
June 10, 2026
10/10
5 ⭐
Such a brilliant book, and a debut book for the author!
The story was gripping, engaging, and had twists and turns I did not expect.
I loved the different POVs, especially towards the end where it isn’t one of the two main characters. So much more impactful in that moment.
I’m in love with all of the characters, but Dora and Boo are just absolutely iconic.
I cannot wait for the next book in September ♥️♥️
5 ⭐
Such a brilliant book, and a debut book for the author!
The story was gripping, engaging, and had twists and turns I did not expect.
I loved the different POVs, especially towards the end where it isn’t one of the two main characters. So much more impactful in that moment.
I’m in love with all of the characters, but Dora and Boo are just absolutely iconic.
I cannot wait for the next book in September ♥️♥️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2026
What a fantastic indi author book! I had an absolute blast! The writing was both dark & mysterious while also being light hearted and comical in places! Archer is morally grey with a soft spot for Iris. Dora is fun and Iris is just a great well rounded character. I loved the plot albite a little predictable in places. It’s a spicy little number but it’s also heart warming. It really was a fantastic story and I can’t wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is absolutely insanely good! I love the mysteries, the connections, and holy cow, the ending was my undoing!
This book takes you on a journey of emotional, mysterious rollercoasters, absolute SPICE, and hearts full of love! Definitely a recommended book to read, and I'd read it again and again
This book takes you on a journey of emotional, mysterious rollercoasters, absolute SPICE, and hearts full of love! Definitely a recommended book to read, and I'd read it again and again
June 30, 2026
I absolutely LOVED this book. The romance between Iris and Archer was 10/10 and took me back to my teenage love of Aria and Ezra in PLL!! The mystery was so well done, I was hooked from the get go and was gagged by every twist and turn! I also loved the addition of Boo, any book with a cat that helps save the day is an instant five star for me! Highly recommend!! 🖤
June 15, 2026
A captivating read with a quick-moving plot that held my attention from start to finish. The characters felt relatable and engaging, which made their journey even more enjoyable. The ending left me wanting more, and I’m looking forward to continuing the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was completely swept up in this story - the characters and plot pulled me in from the very start.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A dark thriller romantasy. Good pace, good plot, great characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Reader Review (Thank you!)
I will start with a wow! I loved this book for so many reasons and it kept me coming back for more.
A Study in Ruin offers likeable characters (and some more unlikeable), twists, turns, a healthy dose of smut 🔥🌶, spooky vibes and a strong storyline throughout. I enjoyed the dual POV that it is written in as it really helped to understand both of the characters.
The story follows Iris as she discovers her new world of academia is not what she expected. Readers follow her friendships, self discovery, paranormal experiences and forbidden romance with the morally grey MMC in a world of mystery.
The conclusion of all of this was not what I expected when I started out which is always an unexpected bonus!
Great first novel and I can't wait for the next one.
I will start with a wow! I loved this book for so many reasons and it kept me coming back for more.
A Study in Ruin offers likeable characters (and some more unlikeable), twists, turns, a healthy dose of smut 🔥🌶, spooky vibes and a strong storyline throughout. I enjoyed the dual POV that it is written in as it really helped to understand both of the characters.
The story follows Iris as she discovers her new world of academia is not what she expected. Readers follow her friendships, self discovery, paranormal experiences and forbidden romance with the morally grey MMC in a world of mystery.
The conclusion of all of this was not what I expected when I started out which is always an unexpected bonus!
Great first novel and I can't wait for the next one.
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