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Ruin of Revenants: A Standalone Gothic Enemies to Lovers Romantasy with a Phoenix Shifter and Phoenix Hunter
A phoenix foretold to ruin the throne. A prince destined to slaughter her people. When their fates collide, they’ll save their kingdom or be its doom.
Isoria Gildmere has no intention of fulfilling the prophecy told when she was a child. She doesn’t care about destroying the throne. As a forbidden phoenix shifter, all she wants is to survive. But when her people begin losing their magic and their lives start to fade, she ventures outside her protected town to find answers.
Though she fears the fae who hunt her kind, darker things lurk beyond her home. The dead are rising, and they wield terrifying powers. Ones that threaten the entire kingdom.
Crown Prince Archer Emberglade is committed to protecting his people from the revenants. Even if it means bargaining with the god of death and eradicating every last phoenix, those he believes are to blame. But when he and Isoria have a fateful encounter, they unintentionally form a blood bond, a connection that will kill them if they stray too far from each other.
Now, forced to work together or die, Archer and Isoria must convince his court they’re madly in love, all while desperately fighting a growing undead army and their own tumultuous feelings. But time is running out. And death isn’t the only thing to fear.
Ruin of Revenants is Book 6 in the Forbidden Bonds Collection, a multi-author fantasy romance collection where forbidden love, fire magic, and high-stakes danger collide. Featuring standalone romantasy adventures with smoldering tension, impossible choices, elemental magic, and lovers who should never be together. Each book is a standalone and can be read in any order.
Isoria Gildmere has no intention of fulfilling the prophecy told when she was a child. She doesn’t care about destroying the throne. As a forbidden phoenix shifter, all she wants is to survive. But when her people begin losing their magic and their lives start to fade, she ventures outside her protected town to find answers.
Though she fears the fae who hunt her kind, darker things lurk beyond her home. The dead are rising, and they wield terrifying powers. Ones that threaten the entire kingdom.
Crown Prince Archer Emberglade is committed to protecting his people from the revenants. Even if it means bargaining with the god of death and eradicating every last phoenix, those he believes are to blame. But when he and Isoria have a fateful encounter, they unintentionally form a blood bond, a connection that will kill them if they stray too far from each other.
Now, forced to work together or die, Archer and Isoria must convince his court they’re madly in love, all while desperately fighting a growing undead army and their own tumultuous feelings. But time is running out. And death isn’t the only thing to fear.
Ruin of Revenants is Book 6 in the Forbidden Bonds Collection, a multi-author fantasy romance collection where forbidden love, fire magic, and high-stakes danger collide. Featuring standalone romantasy adventures with smoldering tension, impossible choices, elemental magic, and lovers who should never be together. Each book is a standalone and can be read in any order.
504 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 11, 2026
About the author
Rachel L. Schade
18 books529 followersRachel L. Schade was born on the first day of summer in a small town in Michigan, only to end up in another small town in Ohio. She attended The Ohio State University to learn how to write obnoxiously long papers, cite people who use big words, and discuss her passion: books. She has a great love for the color blue, sunshine, chocolate, and not folding her laundry. Currently she lives with her husband and surrounds herself with coffee and books on a regular basis.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 18, 2026
Happy release day! This book made me cry. 😭
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
I tend not to read a lot of gothic romance novels, partly because I don’t know very many, and because they tend to have more darker tones. That being said, I have read Schade’s writing before and trust her enough to know she will have a dark theme and twist it around to have a happily ever after. And she did not disappoint. The MMC in “Ruin of Revenants” had some pretty disturbing beliefs and was almost cruel but was redeemed in a way that made me love him in the end.
Speaking of Archer, I really liked how the author got you to like him even though he was kinda a jerk and had some questionable morals (but yeah, mainly the poor guy was believing a lie, so while it wasn’t right it kinda made sense). Like the fact that he has a conscience, shown through his depression and anxiety. Or how he was affectionate to his cat. Or even the way he treated his friends and the fact he always looked out for them. And I liked how he was always trying to look out for his people despite everything being against him.
As for Isoria? I liked her. Her phoenix powers were really cool (and her phoenix form was so pretty!) I liked how compassionate she was for others, even for those who wanted to kill her. She really had the heart of a healer which really showcased what a phoenix really is supposed to be. I liked how Archer’s kitty loved her and how she stressed baked.
It took me a while to be fully on board with the enemies to lovers thing. But these two did grab my heartstrings eventually. Probably from the use of the blood bond and the fact that they could feel each other’s emotions. There were so many times when I wanted to yell at the characters and tell them to stop fighting because of how much they love each other. And some of those plot twists, man, some of those were brutal. If you read the book, you know which one I’m talking about. The one right at the end. Jeez, that was harsh.
For side characters, I really liked Lily the best. She was just super energetic, loving, and a bit romantic. And I really, really wanted a development between her and Owen. Yes, yes, I know why it didn’t go in depth, but I want more with these two!
Also, jaguars. Yes, please! And the fact that they have the cutest names! <3 The precious baby murder kitties. Loved them! <3
The setting for this book was also really fun. I haven’t read too many books set in the jungle with fae and thought this was a refreshing and fun idea. Also, zombies. I tend not to read too many because they can get a bit gory, but I was really pleased that the author never went too far in that direction. It was just fun, action-packed scenes that made you question how the main characters were going to stop them and how they even came about. And it fits well with the lore of phoenixes. I hadn’t seen this take before, and it was really clever.
The ending climax did make me cry. The twist was so good, but so brutal. I was wondering how the author was going to be able to change the story into a happily ever after after that. You’re going to be sweating with the last hundred pages or so.
My Critiques:
The beginning of the book has a long prologue that I feel would have been better if told in the main characters POVs rather than someone who doesn’t have too much page time in the book.
Sooo, I did not know how big this book was when I first picked it up and I don’t know if this feeling was just from trying to rush through the book as fast as possible to meet deadlines or if the pacing was a bit off. But I felt that some events kept getting repeated in the middle. Like I get that because these characters hate each other and because it’s a romance that we need to spend some time to get them to like each other. But I felt that maybe it could have been shorter?
Speaking about the characters hating each other, yes, I’m going to make a note about the enemies to lovers. Enemies to lovers has never been my favorite trope. I do like it when done well, and while I do believe this book did a very good job with weaving around this trope, there were some parts that I felt were a bit of a bullies to lovers. And I have a hard time watching two characters I’m supposed to be rooting for, hurt each other or have many red flags. Especially in scenes when they are roughly kissing one another, not because they like each other, but to prove that they don’t. I just don’t get any warm butterflies with that.
The story was a bit on the depressing side which was causing it to be harder for me to get into. But I think that was more of a me thing than something actually wrong with the book.
Content in Book:
1. Sexual. (Please note, this is a no-spice/no on-page sex book. However, there are a few suggested scenes and innuendos). (Including; a crass comment on how a guy was using a ruler to measure his manliness (he wasn’t). Several mentions of characters making crass jokes about undressing each other (often they are made when the character needs either help to get undressed due to injury or incapable of reaching laces). Some very passionate kisses (mentions of tongue, lips, mouth, taste, heat, etc.). Yearning for each other. Wanting to kiss while drunk. The indication that it was okay for the prince to have women in his rooms for “sexual” reasons. Some mentions of people doing stuff during revels. Etc.)
2. Suicide and self-harm. (One of the characters has the power to manipulate and suggest people to do stuff. This character often uses that power to force people to commit suicide. One of the characters is often depress and while I don’t believe he tried to commit suicide himself, I do remember him making some comments about it. One of the characters would cut into their body in order to call one of the gods who feeds on suffering. Etc.)
3. Zombies/Revenants. The undead. (Mentions of the dead coming back to life and coming out of their graves to kill and attack people. Mentions of rotting flesh and/or missing body parts. Dark shadow magic. Blood. Mentions of undead children and having to kill them again. Can only be killed by beheading. Have to behead and burn dead bodies before they become the undead. Etc.)
4. Violence. (Blood and some gore. Slitting people’s throats. Stabbing people in the heart. Beheading people. Burning people with fire to see if they burn. Burning someone alive, mentions of their skin peeling back and turning black (not detailed). With magic (fire, water, manipulation, star/voids, etc.). Big cats mauling people (not detailed). Someone tries to massacre an entire race of people. War. Death of loved ones. Etc.)
5. Other gods. (A god of death who feeds off suffering including depression and self-harm. A god of life. A god for the sun. A god of night. A god of healing. A god of water. Other gods that I don’t remember. All the gods in this story are malevolent and mischievous in their own way and have very little care for the mortals who worship them.).
6. Mental health. (Depression. Self-harm. Suicide. Manipulating emotions and feeling sadder when he does. Panic attacks. Anxiety.).
7. Magic. (Phoenixes (shapeshifting (does not affect their clothes), fire, healing, and resurrecting from the dead (involving ). Water, star/void, manipulating emotions and/or suggesting people to do stuff, controlling the earth, royal magic from the land, controlling animals, etc. Curses and prophecies. Blood bonds (that involves one getting hurt when the other is, dying if they are apart, telepathy, and feeling each other’s emotions). Magic of the gods. Etc.)
8. Language/swearing. (I remember the word “damn” being used once).
9. Alcohol abuse. (Some drunkenness).
Who I Would Recommend This Book To:
Those who like hunter x hunted romance. Those who like phoenixes. Those who like enemies to lovers. Those who like blood bonds but with a twist. Those who like prophecies and curses. Those who like zombies. Those who like forced proximity romance. Those who want a standalone. Those who like gothic romance and slightly darker stories that still have a happily ever after.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
I tend not to read a lot of gothic romance novels, partly because I don’t know very many, and because they tend to have more darker tones. That being said, I have read Schade’s writing before and trust her enough to know she will have a dark theme and twist it around to have a happily ever after. And she did not disappoint. The MMC in “Ruin of Revenants” had some pretty disturbing beliefs and was almost cruel but was redeemed in a way that made me love him in the end.
Speaking of Archer, I really liked how the author got you to like him even though he was kinda a jerk and had some questionable morals (but yeah, mainly the poor guy was believing a lie, so while it wasn’t right it kinda made sense). Like the fact that he has a conscience, shown through his depression and anxiety. Or how he was affectionate to his cat. Or even the way he treated his friends and the fact he always looked out for them. And I liked how he was always trying to look out for his people despite everything being against him.
As for Isoria? I liked her. Her phoenix powers were really cool (and her phoenix form was so pretty!) I liked how compassionate she was for others, even for those who wanted to kill her. She really had the heart of a healer which really showcased what a phoenix really is supposed to be. I liked how Archer’s kitty loved her and how she stressed baked.
It took me a while to be fully on board with the enemies to lovers thing. But these two did grab my heartstrings eventually. Probably from the use of the blood bond and the fact that they could feel each other’s emotions. There were so many times when I wanted to yell at the characters and tell them to stop fighting because of how much they love each other. And some of those plot twists, man, some of those were brutal. If you read the book, you know which one I’m talking about. The one right at the end. Jeez, that was harsh.
For side characters, I really liked Lily the best. She was just super energetic, loving, and a bit romantic. And I really, really wanted a development between her and Owen. Yes, yes, I know why it didn’t go in depth, but I want more with these two!
Also, jaguars. Yes, please! And the fact that they have the cutest names! <3 The precious baby murder kitties. Loved them! <3
The setting for this book was also really fun. I haven’t read too many books set in the jungle with fae and thought this was a refreshing and fun idea. Also, zombies. I tend not to read too many because they can get a bit gory, but I was really pleased that the author never went too far in that direction. It was just fun, action-packed scenes that made you question how the main characters were going to stop them and how they even came about. And it fits well with the lore of phoenixes. I hadn’t seen this take before, and it was really clever.
The ending climax did make me cry. The twist was so good, but so brutal. I was wondering how the author was going to be able to change the story into a happily ever after after that. You’re going to be sweating with the last hundred pages or so.
My Critiques:
The beginning of the book has a long prologue that I feel would have been better if told in the main characters POVs rather than someone who doesn’t have too much page time in the book.
Sooo, I did not know how big this book was when I first picked it up and I don’t know if this feeling was just from trying to rush through the book as fast as possible to meet deadlines or if the pacing was a bit off. But I felt that some events kept getting repeated in the middle. Like I get that because these characters hate each other and because it’s a romance that we need to spend some time to get them to like each other. But I felt that maybe it could have been shorter?
Speaking about the characters hating each other, yes, I’m going to make a note about the enemies to lovers. Enemies to lovers has never been my favorite trope. I do like it when done well, and while I do believe this book did a very good job with weaving around this trope, there were some parts that I felt were a bit of a bullies to lovers. And I have a hard time watching two characters I’m supposed to be rooting for, hurt each other or have many red flags. Especially in scenes when they are roughly kissing one another, not because they like each other, but to prove that they don’t. I just don’t get any warm butterflies with that.
The story was a bit on the depressing side which was causing it to be harder for me to get into. But I think that was more of a me thing than something actually wrong with the book.
Content in Book:
1. Sexual. (Please note, this is a no-spice/no on-page sex book. However, there are a few suggested scenes and innuendos). (Including; a crass comment on how a guy was using a ruler to measure his manliness (he wasn’t). Several mentions of characters making crass jokes about undressing each other (often they are made when the character needs either help to get undressed due to injury or incapable of reaching laces). Some very passionate kisses (mentions of tongue, lips, mouth, taste, heat, etc.). Yearning for each other. Wanting to kiss while drunk. The indication that it was okay for the prince to have women in his rooms for “sexual” reasons. Some mentions of people doing stuff during revels. Etc.)
2. Suicide and self-harm. (One of the characters has the power to manipulate and suggest people to do stuff. This character often uses that power to force people to commit suicide. One of the characters is often depress and while I don’t believe he tried to commit suicide himself, I do remember him making some comments about it. One of the characters would cut into their body in order to call one of the gods who feeds on suffering. Etc.)
3. Zombies/Revenants. The undead. (Mentions of the dead coming back to life and coming out of their graves to kill and attack people. Mentions of rotting flesh and/or missing body parts. Dark shadow magic. Blood. Mentions of undead children and having to kill them again. Can only be killed by beheading. Have to behead and burn dead bodies before they become the undead. Etc.)
4. Violence. (Blood and some gore. Slitting people’s throats. Stabbing people in the heart. Beheading people. Burning people with fire to see if they burn. Burning someone alive, mentions of their skin peeling back and turning black (not detailed). With magic (fire, water, manipulation, star/voids, etc.). Big cats mauling people (not detailed). Someone tries to massacre an entire race of people. War. Death of loved ones. Etc.)
5. Other gods. (A god of death who feeds off suffering including depression and self-harm. A god of life. A god for the sun. A god of night. A god of healing. A god of water. Other gods that I don’t remember. All the gods in this story are malevolent and mischievous in their own way and have very little care for the mortals who worship them.).
6. Mental health. (Depression. Self-harm. Suicide. Manipulating emotions and feeling sadder when he does. Panic attacks. Anxiety.).
7. Magic. (Phoenixes (shapeshifting (does not affect their clothes), fire, healing, and resurrecting from the dead (involving ). Water, star/void, manipulating emotions and/or suggesting people to do stuff, controlling the earth, royal magic from the land, controlling animals, etc. Curses and prophecies. Blood bonds (that involves one getting hurt when the other is, dying if they are apart, telepathy, and feeling each other’s emotions). Magic of the gods. Etc.)
8. Language/swearing. (I remember the word “damn” being used once).
9. Alcohol abuse. (Some drunkenness).
Who I Would Recommend This Book To:
Those who like hunter x hunted romance. Those who like phoenixes. Those who like enemies to lovers. Those who like blood bonds but with a twist. Those who like prophecies and curses. Those who like zombies. Those who like forced proximity romance. Those who want a standalone. Those who like gothic romance and slightly darker stories that still have a happily ever after.
August 20, 2026
Isoria and Archer are bound by a childhood prophecy that marks them as fated enemies. When they accidentally become blood-bound, they agree to fake an engagement until they find a way out.
I really liked that Isoria was a lover, not a fighter. She’s a phoenix with healing abilities. She doesn’t like hurting anyone and will seek another solution to avoid it. She sees the best in people, even those who don’t have any love for phoenixes because of what they’ve been told about them.
Archer, on the other hand, was trained to eradicate phoenixes. They’re seen as symbols of death and destruction and of the royal line’s downfall. He’s similar to Isoria in that he would do anything to protect his people, even when the King seems not to care for them. I love a misunderstood prince, especially one like Archer, a good fae raised in a different environment than Isoria’s, which was loving and caring.
It was the perfect slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance. While pretending to be in love, they still felt hate and disgust. But then there was a sudden turn where they declared they couldn’t live without each other and how much they loved each other. There was so much banter and animosity, and not many moments where they got to know each other without it, so the declaration of love felt sudden. But I still really liked the development of their relationship.
I really enjoyed the conflict with the revenants, which is why I wish there had been more of them actively searching for the mastermind. It took a back seat to Isoria’s and Archer’s relationship.
The fact that it was a standalone and still provided an entertaining story with complex characters and a compelling mystery had me pleasantly surprised, and I highly recommend it.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I really liked that Isoria was a lover, not a fighter. She’s a phoenix with healing abilities. She doesn’t like hurting anyone and will seek another solution to avoid it. She sees the best in people, even those who don’t have any love for phoenixes because of what they’ve been told about them.
Archer, on the other hand, was trained to eradicate phoenixes. They’re seen as symbols of death and destruction and of the royal line’s downfall. He’s similar to Isoria in that he would do anything to protect his people, even when the King seems not to care for them. I love a misunderstood prince, especially one like Archer, a good fae raised in a different environment than Isoria’s, which was loving and caring.
It was the perfect slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance. While pretending to be in love, they still felt hate and disgust. But then there was a sudden turn where they declared they couldn’t live without each other and how much they loved each other. There was so much banter and animosity, and not many moments where they got to know each other without it, so the declaration of love felt sudden. But I still really liked the development of their relationship.
I really enjoyed the conflict with the revenants, which is why I wish there had been more of them actively searching for the mastermind. It took a back seat to Isoria’s and Archer’s relationship.
The fact that it was a standalone and still provided an entertaining story with complex characters and a compelling mystery had me pleasantly surprised, and I highly recommend it.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
August 7, 2026
If you love a TRUE enemies to lovers, a bit of a zombie war, found family, and maybe some meddling gods...check out this book releasing August 11!
A Phoenix shifter who can heal, and a Princely Phoenix hunter whose power is to charm.
Isoria and Prince Archer both received prophecies as children that paints them as fated enemies. She is supposed to ruin the throne, while he is supposed to hunt down the phoenix shifters and end them. When they collide in the woods unexpectedly, they realize that more than a prophecy influences their relationship.
These two.man they have prejudice, mistrust, and a smoldering tension that is just so good to watch unfold.
This dual POV shows equally the struggle these two fight, thinking the worst of the other and realizing maybe they were wrong. They have both been influenced by their elders to believe a certain narrative and they can either follow that narrative or be the spark of change. I love a good fake romance and forced proximity and this book has it in spades!
A Phoenix shifter who can heal, and a Princely Phoenix hunter whose power is to charm.
Isoria and Prince Archer both received prophecies as children that paints them as fated enemies. She is supposed to ruin the throne, while he is supposed to hunt down the phoenix shifters and end them. When they collide in the woods unexpectedly, they realize that more than a prophecy influences their relationship.
These two.man they have prejudice, mistrust, and a smoldering tension that is just so good to watch unfold.
This dual POV shows equally the struggle these two fight, thinking the worst of the other and realizing maybe they were wrong. They have both been influenced by their elders to believe a certain narrative and they can either follow that narrative or be the spark of change. I love a good fake romance and forced proximity and this book has it in spades!
August 4, 2026
A phoenix and a phoenix hunter, what a rich joke indeed.
I honestly wanted to see where the story was going; the blurb was interesting to say at the least.
I enjoyed the first 70%, and I feel like it went downhill from there. Somewhere along the way of Archer looking for a way to save his kingdom and Isa looking for a cure for her people, the plot got lost, and so did the romance.
They went from enemies to maybe lovers, back to enemies again, and only in the last 5% did they find a way back to each other, and that was it, the end.
I wish that once the final battle was over and everything else was solved that their relationship would get a longer plot line towards the end and not just brushed aside.
I honestly wanted to see where the story was going; the blurb was interesting to say at the least.
I enjoyed the first 70%, and I feel like it went downhill from there. Somewhere along the way of Archer looking for a way to save his kingdom and Isa looking for a cure for her people, the plot got lost, and so did the romance.
They went from enemies to maybe lovers, back to enemies again, and only in the last 5% did they find a way back to each other, and that was it, the end.
I wish that once the final battle was over and everything else was solved that their relationship would get a longer plot line towards the end and not just brushed aside.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An emotional roller coaster... in a good way?
Make sure to have a box of tissues near by while reading Ruin of Revenants. Any time I thought it was safe think that Archer and Isario were finally figuring out that they should be together, something would happen.
Archer, Crown Prince of Emberglade, is fighting an uprising of Revenants and believes that the Phoenix Shifters are at fault. The king, however, does not want to fight the Revenants, and Archer and his friends are going out on their own to save the villages that they can. Archer along with the guards are also hunting the Phoenix Shifters and are capturing them. Often killing them on display.
Isa, a Phoenix Shifter, is living in a safe haven in the forest. Like all all of her kind, she is a healer and abhors death. Her mama, along with others are ill and losing their magic and eventually will die soon. When it starts to affect the younger childern, Isa sets out to find the temple of Solea to pray.
This is when Archer and Isa meet and I would say it does not go well. I enjoyed how Archer and Isa were prophesied to be fated enemies, but when they meet, they become blood bound. Then with the forced proximity of her living in his quarters at the castle as his betrothed, they begin to grow closer to one another and learn that the other side isn't necessarily to blame as they orignally thought.
Archer does get taken to Isa's village to see how the Phoenix Shifters live and plays with the smaller childern, just like when he was a young fae child. This gives him time to reflect that maybe, he is not looking at the right solution to the problem.
I loved watching both of them explore their feelings, assess if they were real or if it was the blood bond or even if it was the others manipulation or magic charm. Also proof that prophecy isn't always have the solution you think it does and many interesting twists and turns along the way. Loved Owen and Lily and hope that they will get their own story eventually as I love this world so much.
If you are a fan of slow burn, enemies to allies back to enemies, he falls first and hard, forced proximity, fake engagement, phoenix shifter, fac, gothic fantasy, then this is the book for you!
Make sure to have a box of tissues near by while reading Ruin of Revenants. Any time I thought it was safe think that Archer and Isario were finally figuring out that they should be together, something would happen.
Archer, Crown Prince of Emberglade, is fighting an uprising of Revenants and believes that the Phoenix Shifters are at fault. The king, however, does not want to fight the Revenants, and Archer and his friends are going out on their own to save the villages that they can. Archer along with the guards are also hunting the Phoenix Shifters and are capturing them. Often killing them on display.
Isa, a Phoenix Shifter, is living in a safe haven in the forest. Like all all of her kind, she is a healer and abhors death. Her mama, along with others are ill and losing their magic and eventually will die soon. When it starts to affect the younger childern, Isa sets out to find the temple of Solea to pray.
This is when Archer and Isa meet and I would say it does not go well. I enjoyed how Archer and Isa were prophesied to be fated enemies, but when they meet, they become blood bound. Then with the forced proximity of her living in his quarters at the castle as his betrothed, they begin to grow closer to one another and learn that the other side isn't necessarily to blame as they orignally thought.
Archer does get taken to Isa's village to see how the Phoenix Shifters live and plays with the smaller childern, just like when he was a young fae child. This gives him time to reflect that maybe, he is not looking at the right solution to the problem.
I loved watching both of them explore their feelings, assess if they were real or if it was the blood bond or even if it was the others manipulation or magic charm. Also proof that prophecy isn't always have the solution you think it does and many interesting twists and turns along the way. Loved Owen and Lily and hope that they will get their own story eventually as I love this world so much.
If you are a fan of slow burn, enemies to allies back to enemies, he falls first and hard, forced proximity, fake engagement, phoenix shifter, fac, gothic fantasy, then this is the book for you!
August 11, 2026
***Thank you to the author for the ARC copy. All opinions are my own.***
“I love you, Isoria Gildmere. I’m in love with you, my ruination. In spite of fate, my father, the gods. I’d defy them all again and again to be with you.”
I have only one word for this book. Wow!
An impeccable enemies-to-lovers slow-burn romance packed full of mythology, zombies, and meddling gods, creating an incredible, fleshed-out world that will leave you breathless. Ruin of Revenants has the spooky vibes of T. Kingfisher’s What Moves the Dead mixed with the romantasy vibes of The Serpent & the Wings of Night.
I adored the growth between the two main characters. The world tried to force them apart, Archer being raised to hate Isoria’s people, the phoenixes, and Isoria growing up believing that she needed to destroy the crown prince to save those she loved. Isoria’s desire to protect her people and her family, and Archer’s determination to save his people from the threat of the undead, brought them together despite their hatred for each other. Their banter was unparalleled, their forced closeness to one another creating tangles of conflicting feelings that opposed everything the world had taught them to believe.
Not only was there a simmering romance with witty banter and tender moments between the characters, but the world-building was immersive, painting a grand picture of a universe that I would not mind returning to in the future. Vivid descriptions were balanced with dialogue, creating a fast-paced story that allowed the reader to visualize the unique setting.
And the battles! The battles were epic, well thought out but easy to follow, and intense, leaving me on the edge of my seat. You could tell that Schade put a lot of thought into each element of Ruin of Revenants, giving it the care and attention it deserved.
Rachel Schade is an incredible author, and this book showcased her talent beautifully. Bravo to her for creating such a memorable world; I cannot wait to read more of her work.
“I love you, Isoria Gildmere. I’m in love with you, my ruination. In spite of fate, my father, the gods. I’d defy them all again and again to be with you.”
I have only one word for this book. Wow!
An impeccable enemies-to-lovers slow-burn romance packed full of mythology, zombies, and meddling gods, creating an incredible, fleshed-out world that will leave you breathless. Ruin of Revenants has the spooky vibes of T. Kingfisher’s What Moves the Dead mixed with the romantasy vibes of The Serpent & the Wings of Night.
I adored the growth between the two main characters. The world tried to force them apart, Archer being raised to hate Isoria’s people, the phoenixes, and Isoria growing up believing that she needed to destroy the crown prince to save those she loved. Isoria’s desire to protect her people and her family, and Archer’s determination to save his people from the threat of the undead, brought them together despite their hatred for each other. Their banter was unparalleled, their forced closeness to one another creating tangles of conflicting feelings that opposed everything the world had taught them to believe.
Not only was there a simmering romance with witty banter and tender moments between the characters, but the world-building was immersive, painting a grand picture of a universe that I would not mind returning to in the future. Vivid descriptions were balanced with dialogue, creating a fast-paced story that allowed the reader to visualize the unique setting.
And the battles! The battles were epic, well thought out but easy to follow, and intense, leaving me on the edge of my seat. You could tell that Schade put a lot of thought into each element of Ruin of Revenants, giving it the care and attention it deserved.
Rachel Schade is an incredible author, and this book showcased her talent beautifully. Bravo to her for creating such a memorable world; I cannot wait to read more of her work.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A phoenix foretold to ruin the throne. A prince destined to slaughter her people. When their fates collide, they'll save their kingdom or be its doom.
In a kingdom plagued by revenants, a phoenix shifter and the crown prince who hunts her kind discover an unwanted bond that forces them to pretend to be madly in love while fighting to save their people. But with time quickly running out, can they find a way to save the Kingdom before it’s too late?
I honestly had such a good time reading this book! I’m currently in my blond MMC era, and Archer is a fantastic addition to my ever-growing list of book boyfriends! 😂
This book had everything I could want: a fast-paced story, high stakes, found family, meddling gods, and two characters who are absolutely madly pining for each other while desperately trying to fight their feelings.
I especially loved the fated enemies premise. We’ve all heard of fated mates, but fated enemies? Now that was a new one for me! I loved the way this concept was woven into the story and how it challenged both characters’ deeply ingrained beliefs.
Isoria is such a sweet and soft FMC. She’s a healer at heart: caring, compassionate, and always willing to risk her own life to help her people. Archer, on the other hand, is outwardly cocky and arrogant, but underneath that façade is a prince carrying an enormous burden. He cares deeply for his people, but his prejudice against phoenixes runs deep, shaped by the way he was raised.
I adored watching their relationship develop. They were raised to see each other as enemies, yet as they’re forced together, they slowly begin to see past those prejudices. Their banter was absolute GOLD. Watching them fight their feelings while their chemistry became harder and harder to ignore gave me the best emotional whiplash 😂
If you are looking for a book with no spice but ALL the feels, look no further!
This standalone was so entrancing from beginning to end. If you came for the romance, you’ll stay for the action, banter, found family, and lore. Highly recommend! ✨
In a kingdom plagued by revenants, a phoenix shifter and the crown prince who hunts her kind discover an unwanted bond that forces them to pretend to be madly in love while fighting to save their people. But with time quickly running out, can they find a way to save the Kingdom before it’s too late?
I honestly had such a good time reading this book! I’m currently in my blond MMC era, and Archer is a fantastic addition to my ever-growing list of book boyfriends! 😂
This book had everything I could want: a fast-paced story, high stakes, found family, meddling gods, and two characters who are absolutely madly pining for each other while desperately trying to fight their feelings.
I especially loved the fated enemies premise. We’ve all heard of fated mates, but fated enemies? Now that was a new one for me! I loved the way this concept was woven into the story and how it challenged both characters’ deeply ingrained beliefs.
Isoria is such a sweet and soft FMC. She’s a healer at heart: caring, compassionate, and always willing to risk her own life to help her people. Archer, on the other hand, is outwardly cocky and arrogant, but underneath that façade is a prince carrying an enormous burden. He cares deeply for his people, but his prejudice against phoenixes runs deep, shaped by the way he was raised.
I adored watching their relationship develop. They were raised to see each other as enemies, yet as they’re forced together, they slowly begin to see past those prejudices. Their banter was absolute GOLD. Watching them fight their feelings while their chemistry became harder and harder to ignore gave me the best emotional whiplash 😂
If you are looking for a book with no spice but ALL the feels, look no further!
This standalone was so entrancing from beginning to end. If you came for the romance, you’ll stay for the action, banter, found family, and lore. Highly recommend! ✨
August 12, 2026
This is the kind of romantasy that feels like it was built for readers who want their love stories with a side of impending doom. 🔥🖤
The gothic atmosphere was what pulled me in first. There’s something wonderfully eerie about a world filled with prophecy, phoenix magic, fae hunters, and the undead. It gives the romance this constant sense that beauty and danger are sitting right beside each other.
I also really liked Isoria as a heroine. She isn't chasing some grand destiny because she wants the glory of it. She's trying to survive while carrying the weight of something she never asked for. That made her feel much more grounded despite the fantastical world around her.
Archer was an interesting contrast. He's so firmly rooted in duty and protecting his kingdom that Isoria challenges basically everything he believes. I particularly enjoyed the tension that comes from putting two people together who have every reason to distrust one another.
And the blood bond? 👀
That was such a fun addition to the enemies-to-lovers dynamic because their connection isn't something either of them can simply ignore. It creates that delicious “I don't trust you, but unfortunately I can't stay away from you” energy.
The phoenix mythology was another highlight for me. I love when a fantasy romance gives its magical elements emotional significance rather than using them simply as decoration, and the connection between fire, survival, rebirth, and sacrifice worked beautifully with the overall tone.
What I appreciated most, though, was the feeling of two people being forced to question everything they thought they knew.
Sometimes the person standing on the opposite side of the war isn't actually your enemy.
Sometimes they're the person who makes you question why you were fighting in the first place.
Dark, atmospheric, magical, and packed with romantic tension.
The gothic atmosphere was what pulled me in first. There’s something wonderfully eerie about a world filled with prophecy, phoenix magic, fae hunters, and the undead. It gives the romance this constant sense that beauty and danger are sitting right beside each other.
I also really liked Isoria as a heroine. She isn't chasing some grand destiny because she wants the glory of it. She's trying to survive while carrying the weight of something she never asked for. That made her feel much more grounded despite the fantastical world around her.
Archer was an interesting contrast. He's so firmly rooted in duty and protecting his kingdom that Isoria challenges basically everything he believes. I particularly enjoyed the tension that comes from putting two people together who have every reason to distrust one another.
And the blood bond? 👀
That was such a fun addition to the enemies-to-lovers dynamic because their connection isn't something either of them can simply ignore. It creates that delicious “I don't trust you, but unfortunately I can't stay away from you” energy.
The phoenix mythology was another highlight for me. I love when a fantasy romance gives its magical elements emotional significance rather than using them simply as decoration, and the connection between fire, survival, rebirth, and sacrifice worked beautifully with the overall tone.
What I appreciated most, though, was the feeling of two people being forced to question everything they thought they knew.
Sometimes the person standing on the opposite side of the war isn't actually your enemy.
Sometimes they're the person who makes you question why you were fighting in the first place.
Dark, atmospheric, magical, and packed with romantic tension.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fate wove a knot between Isoria Gildmere and Prince Archer Emberglade; one that leaves both their lives quite frayed. Isoria is said to be his ruin and Archer is tasked with destroying her kind. A Phoenix and a Phoenix hunter… fated enemies who now hold the fate of the kingdom in their tied hands. All they need to do is destroy the other to find peace, but meddling gods have cursed them with a blood bond. Such a connection means that they cannot harm one another. Bound now by fate and blinded by their hate, these two must work together to find the answers they seek. What can stop the dead from rising? What can save the phoenixes? Can they undo this bond? And, above all, can they convince the kingdom they are madly in love?
“Ruin of Revenants” by Rachel L. Schade is the sixth book of the “Forbidden Bonds” Collection. This novel is gothic with a flare for fantasy and zombies. Such an interesting mix of genres made an amazing story that kept me reading well into the night. And the enemies to lovers trope??? Schade must have written the handbook because Archer and Isoria had the perfect banter and tension!!! Once I started I was drawn quickly into the world and the minds of the characters.
I think anyone can pick up this book and fall in love with it. Whether you're a fan of shifters or fae or meddling gods or even Edgar Allan Poe, this novel had something to keep anyone at the edge of their seat. Even the twist on fated mates was a genius spin on the tropes everyone (including myself) love. Brilliant and beautiful, you might just spend all night following Archer and Isoria as they navigate their fate. And when you're done, you can dive into her Fae of Brytwilde series!!! I absolutely cannot get enough and can't wait for you guys to see how this story unfolds!
“Ruin of Revenants” by Rachel L. Schade is the sixth book of the “Forbidden Bonds” Collection. This novel is gothic with a flare for fantasy and zombies. Such an interesting mix of genres made an amazing story that kept me reading well into the night. And the enemies to lovers trope??? Schade must have written the handbook because Archer and Isoria had the perfect banter and tension!!! Once I started I was drawn quickly into the world and the minds of the characters.
I think anyone can pick up this book and fall in love with it. Whether you're a fan of shifters or fae or meddling gods or even Edgar Allan Poe, this novel had something to keep anyone at the edge of their seat. Even the twist on fated mates was a genius spin on the tropes everyone (including myself) love. Brilliant and beautiful, you might just spend all night following Archer and Isoria as they navigate their fate. And when you're done, you can dive into her Fae of Brytwilde series!!! I absolutely cannot get enough and can't wait for you guys to see how this story unfolds!
July 16, 2026
Ruin of Revenants delivers exactly what I hoped for: genuine enemies-to-lovers with sharp banter, believable tension, and absolutely no insta-love. Isa and Archer spend most of the book trying to outwit each other, and their back-and-forth had me smiling more than once. One of my favorite little quips was:
“You’re a snake.”
“And birds eat snakes.”
I also loved getting to explore the world of the phoenixes. Every new piece of magic and lore made the world feel richer.
Also. Once again somehow Schade made me love a blonde male. I thought one was enough from her Fortress of Blood and Power. But she proved me wrong.
Fair warning: if you’ve never read a book by Schade, she does not pull her punches emotionally. She writes grief so vividly. And I’m talking ugly cry — I hate it.
Without spoiling anything, there was one scene that completely broke me. I had to put the book down and come back the next day, not just because it was way past my bedtime, but because I just needed a moment to recover.
By the end, I was completely invested in Isa and Archer and rooting for them. If you love complicated enemies-to-lovers, immersive fantasy worlds, witty banter, and emotionally devastating moments, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Oh… and Onyx the kitten deserves a fan club. I would happily read an entire book about that adorable little creature alone and his affronted face. 🖤
“You’re a snake.”
“And birds eat snakes.”
I also loved getting to explore the world of the phoenixes. Every new piece of magic and lore made the world feel richer.
Also. Once again somehow Schade made me love a blonde male. I thought one was enough from her Fortress of Blood and Power. But she proved me wrong.
Fair warning: if you’ve never read a book by Schade, she does not pull her punches emotionally. She writes grief so vividly. And I’m talking ugly cry — I hate it.
Without spoiling anything, there was one scene that completely broke me. I had to put the book down and come back the next day, not just because it was way past my bedtime, but because I just needed a moment to recover.
By the end, I was completely invested in Isa and Archer and rooting for them. If you love complicated enemies-to-lovers, immersive fantasy worlds, witty banter, and emotionally devastating moments, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
Oh… and Onyx the kitten deserves a fan club. I would happily read an entire book about that adorable little creature alone and his affronted face. 🖤
August 19, 2026
My first read by Rachel!
And it was an amazing read. I like Isa and Archer. I kept screaming at them, "Kill the king!!" But sadly, no one heard me.
This story you would think was a fantasy story about two people, fated enemies, and you would only be half correct. This is a story of the gods twisted senses of humor on the fae people. Each rise and set, we're their puppets, their enjoyment.
Back to Isa, a Phoenix Fae, and Archer, a Phoenix-killer. Just that sentence should tell you how tantilizing this read was!
I wasn't surprised by any of the plot twists. However, at the end, I was sure there was going to be a huge reveal with Orchid; I was wrong. But that's okay! The story was epic! I can't say it was fun, although there were plenty of funny moments. It was deep. A tad too long, if I'm honest. The end battle is much longer than any battle I've read recently. And that was actually really meaty! I enjoyed it!
Disclaimer: phoenix-shifters, a couple of profanities, clean, no sex, no gore, lots of banter and teasing, loss, death, battle with the undead, precocious gods that really need to get hobbies, and a great ending!!
You won't want to miss this read!!
And it was an amazing read. I like Isa and Archer. I kept screaming at them, "Kill the king!!" But sadly, no one heard me.
This story you would think was a fantasy story about two people, fated enemies, and you would only be half correct. This is a story of the gods twisted senses of humor on the fae people. Each rise and set, we're their puppets, their enjoyment.
Back to Isa, a Phoenix Fae, and Archer, a Phoenix-killer. Just that sentence should tell you how tantilizing this read was!
I wasn't surprised by any of the plot twists. However, at the end, I was sure there was going to be a huge reveal with Orchid; I was wrong. But that's okay! The story was epic! I can't say it was fun, although there were plenty of funny moments. It was deep. A tad too long, if I'm honest. The end battle is much longer than any battle I've read recently. And that was actually really meaty! I enjoyed it!
Disclaimer: phoenix-shifters, a couple of profanities, clean, no sex, no gore, lots of banter and teasing, loss, death, battle with the undead, precocious gods that really need to get hobbies, and a great ending!!
You won't want to miss this read!!
August 26, 2026
"Who knew emptiness could have weight?"
Ruin of Revenants was such an enjoyable read. The main characters are truly enemies, which makes the enemies to lovers trope that much more satisfying as it evolves throughout the story. The play on bonds and magical prophecies was a unique element of this book and the author did a great job setting a plot-forward fantasy with romance. Personally, between the division of the Phoenix Shifters and other citizens of Emberglade and the necromantic threat set to ruin their world, this book reads more like a gothic fantasy with a slow-burn, romantic subplot than a classic Romantasy, which I loved! The only thing keeping this book from a 5 star read for me was the last 15% felt a bit rushed - more detail into the Gods and their history leading to some of their influence throughout the story along with a longer time for the characters to work through some of their issues later in the book, would have truly elevated the story for me.
All that to say, this was a great read and I recommend it for all Gothic Fantasy and Romantasy readers!
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
Ruin of Revenants was such an enjoyable read. The main characters are truly enemies, which makes the enemies to lovers trope that much more satisfying as it evolves throughout the story. The play on bonds and magical prophecies was a unique element of this book and the author did a great job setting a plot-forward fantasy with romance. Personally, between the division of the Phoenix Shifters and other citizens of Emberglade and the necromantic threat set to ruin their world, this book reads more like a gothic fantasy with a slow-burn, romantic subplot than a classic Romantasy, which I loved! The only thing keeping this book from a 5 star read for me was the last 15% felt a bit rushed - more detail into the Gods and their history leading to some of their influence throughout the story along with a longer time for the characters to work through some of their issues later in the book, would have truly elevated the story for me.
All that to say, this was a great read and I recommend it for all Gothic Fantasy and Romantasy readers!
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for a copy to review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was fortunate to read an arc for Ruin and Revenants, and let me just tell you, I loved every single line in this book! Rachel Schade is an auto buy author for me, and she got to that status because her writing is just that good! (in my opinion.)
The world she built was spooky as hell and very gothic, with these two main characters that are fated to hate each other, and yet, end up having to work together to try and save their world from the undead while also fighting a growing attraction. Schade is a master (again, my opinion) in the swoony, slow burn department and she once again nails it with these two. Well, mainly with the MMC, which *sigh* Archer is just so dreamy!
And no Rachel Schade book is complete without her completely breaking your heart and making you ugly cry. Or is it just a me thing? Either way, she manages to pour so much heart into the story and makes the reading experience that much more enjoyable. Yes she'll rip your heart out, and yes she'll make you cry, but in the end, there's a beautiful, sometimes bittersweet ending. Highly recommend!
The world she built was spooky as hell and very gothic, with these two main characters that are fated to hate each other, and yet, end up having to work together to try and save their world from the undead while also fighting a growing attraction. Schade is a master (again, my opinion) in the swoony, slow burn department and she once again nails it with these two. Well, mainly with the MMC, which *sigh* Archer is just so dreamy!
And no Rachel Schade book is complete without her completely breaking your heart and making you ugly cry. Or is it just a me thing? Either way, she manages to pour so much heart into the story and makes the reading experience that much more enjoyable. Yes she'll rip your heart out, and yes she'll make you cry, but in the end, there's a beautiful, sometimes bittersweet ending. Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy
De niños, Archer e Isoria recibieron profecías que marcarían el resto de sus vidas. A él le advirtieron que estaba destinado a destruir a los fénix y si fracasaba, uno de ellos sería su final. A ella le revelaron que sería la responsable de derrotar a la corona y que, si no cumplía ese destino, el príncipe heredero exterminaría a su pueblo. Desde ese momento su vida cambio.
Archer pasó años cazando fénix convencido de que era la única forma de proteger su reino, mientras Isoria permaneció escondida junto a los suyos, intentando sobrevivir a la persecución y a una extraña enfermedad que está arrebatando la magia de los fenix. Ademas, los muertos empiezan a levantarse y atacan a quien se le ponga en su camino, por lo que ambos se ven obligados a trabajar juntos para derrotar a un enemigo en común.
_____
Le falto mucho desarrollo al mundo. Ese es mi único pero.
Necesito el libro de L y O.
Archer pasó años cazando fénix convencido de que era la única forma de proteger su reino, mientras Isoria permaneció escondida junto a los suyos, intentando sobrevivir a la persecución y a una extraña enfermedad que está arrebatando la magia de los fenix. Ademas, los muertos empiezan a levantarse y atacan a quien se le ponga en su camino, por lo que ambos se ven obligados a trabajar juntos para derrotar a un enemigo en común.
_____
Le falto mucho desarrollo al mundo. Ese es mi único pero.
Necesito el libro de L y O.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Ruin of Revenants swept me up in the sweetest, slow-building way. Isoria and Archer's opposite sides of the same prophecy made for such a compelling journey, and I loved watching her grow braver while he stayed fiercely determined despite everything stacked against him. The phoenix symbolism felt so tender and meaningful, that gentle idea of rising from your ashes and starting again. Between the fire magic, forced proximity, meddling gods, and rising undead, there's a lot woven in, but the twists kept me pleasantly surprised throughout. The slow-burn enemies-to-lovers tension was full of warmth and banter, and I appreciated the soft-yet-fierce heroine along with some thoughtful mental health representation. Pacing slows here and there with world-building details, but it only made the story feel richer. A cozy, satisfying standalone with real heart. 4.5stars
Ruin of Revenants swept me up in the sweetest, slow-building way. Isoria and Archer's opposite sides of the same prophecy made for such a compelling journey, and I loved watching her grow braver while he stayed fiercely determined despite everything stacked against him. The phoenix symbolism felt so tender and meaningful, that gentle idea of rising from your ashes and starting again. Between the fire magic, forced proximity, meddling gods, and rising undead, there's a lot woven in, but the twists kept me pleasantly surprised throughout. The slow-burn enemies-to-lovers tension was full of warmth and banter, and I appreciated the soft-yet-fierce heroine along with some thoughtful mental health representation. Pacing slows here and there with world-building details, but it only made the story feel richer. A cozy, satisfying standalone with real heart. 4.5stars
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review courtesy of the Author and BookSirens
Can you trully fall in love with your prophesied enemy?
Isoria and Archer were fortold to destroy each other when they were just children, but a chance encounter born out of desperation and a blood bond forged by the gods might just change the fate of the whole kingdom!
This was a slow burn true enemies to lovers story - the main characters hate each other, not only due to the prophecy, but because they come from 2 groups that actively hate each other.
They have to overcome their prejudice and years of propaganda in order to discover their true intentions.
On top of that you have an usurper king that would do anything to keep his power and an army of undead revenants wreaking havoc in the kingdom.
Trully, I couldn't put it down!
Can you trully fall in love with your prophesied enemy?
Isoria and Archer were fortold to destroy each other when they were just children, but a chance encounter born out of desperation and a blood bond forged by the gods might just change the fate of the whole kingdom!
This was a slow burn true enemies to lovers story - the main characters hate each other, not only due to the prophecy, but because they come from 2 groups that actively hate each other.
They have to overcome their prejudice and years of propaganda in order to discover their true intentions.
On top of that you have an usurper king that would do anything to keep his power and an army of undead revenants wreaking havoc in the kingdom.
Trully, I couldn't put it down!
August 29, 2026
I quite enjoyed this book and even read it in a day, even though its longer than it needs to be (or some things could have been switched out).
This felt like a true enemies-to-lover story, they never were just suddenly head over heels but it felt like natural progression, whatever happened between them. I did miss a further fleshed out epilogue or more of what their dynamic would be once the enemies part was officially diminished.
I agree with the other reviews that the end felt a little rushed and suddenly all these things where explained in a way that felt like: let's wrap a pretty bow around this aaaaand it's done. So the pay off could have been better. Also the ending was a bunch of half epic stuff happening that felt too random and also like ticking off boxes that a romantasy needed.
All in all, I DID enjoy it even though I just complained a bunch HA!
This felt like a true enemies-to-lover story, they never were just suddenly head over heels but it felt like natural progression, whatever happened between them. I did miss a further fleshed out epilogue or more of what their dynamic would be once the enemies part was officially diminished.
I agree with the other reviews that the end felt a little rushed and suddenly all these things where explained in a way that felt like: let's wrap a pretty bow around this aaaaand it's done. So the pay off could have been better. Also the ending was a bunch of half epic stuff happening that felt too random and also like ticking off boxes that a romantasy needed.
All in all, I DID enjoy it even though I just complained a bunch HA!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Ruin of Revenants" is a solid example of everything I love about the fantasy genre. The story of Archer and Isoria sharing opposite sides of the same prophecy was intriguing from page one until the last.
This book has a taste of so many of my favorite tropes, including:
◇ Forced Proximity
◇ Fake Relationship
◇ Enemies to Allies
◇ The Reluctant Hero
◇ Animal Companions
I loved the symbolism of the phoenix. In a world where even the gods are meddling (and conveniently silent) and causing havoc, the very idea of rising from ones ashes and starting again was a clever and beautiful touch. The fires in our lives may be excruciatingly painful to survive, but it is in the flames we are truly honed and alive.
This book has a taste of so many of my favorite tropes, including:
◇ Forced Proximity
◇ Fake Relationship
◇ Enemies to Allies
◇ The Reluctant Hero
◇ Animal Companions
I loved the symbolism of the phoenix. In a world where even the gods are meddling (and conveniently silent) and causing havoc, the very idea of rising from ones ashes and starting again was a clever and beautiful touch. The fires in our lives may be excruciatingly painful to survive, but it is in the flames we are truly honed and alive.
August 6, 2026
Ruin of Revenants has this sweet, slow-building way of sweeping you off your feet.
This book had prophecies, tension and good banter. It also had good world building, especially for a standalone.
It did take me a minute to get into the book but once I dived in I was set. There was enemies-to-lovers with sharp banter and ooh the tension. Isa and Archer spend all their time trying to outwit each other, and their back-and-forth had me cheesing more than once. I also loved getting to explore the world of the phoenixes.
Overall, I appreciated the soft-yet-fierce heroine along with some thoughtful mental health representation. If you want to read a book with a great world, different types of creatures, and a beautiful romance along the way. Then I would recommend this for you!
This book had prophecies, tension and good banter. It also had good world building, especially for a standalone.
It did take me a minute to get into the book but once I dived in I was set. There was enemies-to-lovers with sharp banter and ooh the tension. Isa and Archer spend all their time trying to outwit each other, and their back-and-forth had me cheesing more than once. I also loved getting to explore the world of the phoenixes.
Overall, I appreciated the soft-yet-fierce heroine along with some thoughtful mental health representation. If you want to read a book with a great world, different types of creatures, and a beautiful romance along the way. Then I would recommend this for you!
August 18, 2026
This installment of the multi-author series was the one I was most excited to read! I’ve read this author before and loved her! She has very unique takes on old classics and her writing is fresh.
Ruin of Revenants did not disappoint! I loved Archer and Isoria (and friends)! They were well developed characters with strong motivations and desires. This book was the definition of fated enemies and that banter was incredible!! Unique plot line, engaging characters, and great dialogue. I recommend!!
Rated PG-13 for death/gore
—low spice
—little to no language
—moderate to strong violence/death/gore
—light on torture
I received this eARC free from the author without expectation of a good review. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
Ruin of Revenants did not disappoint! I loved Archer and Isoria (and friends)! They were well developed characters with strong motivations and desires. This book was the definition of fated enemies and that banter was incredible!! Unique plot line, engaging characters, and great dialogue. I recommend!!
Rated PG-13 for death/gore
—low spice
—little to no language
—moderate to strong violence/death/gore
—light on torture
I received this eARC free from the author without expectation of a good review. My opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
August 16, 2026
I'm glad I had a chance to read this book. I really liked the realistic way they moved from enemies to reluctant allies to friends and then more.
Archer hiding who he really is deep inside to protect himself from his father.
Isoria putting her heart in her sleeve, protecting everyone whether they deserved it or not.
These 2 were so clueless to their similarities and hopes that sometimes you wanted to crawl into the pages and smack them both upside the head
It was such a wonderfully hopeful book, battling prejudice and lies to uncover the truth and save their people.
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy but these thoughts are my own.
Archer hiding who he really is deep inside to protect himself from his father.
Isoria putting her heart in her sleeve, protecting everyone whether they deserved it or not.
These 2 were so clueless to their similarities and hopes that sometimes you wanted to crawl into the pages and smack them both upside the head
It was such a wonderfully hopeful book, battling prejudice and lies to uncover the truth and save their people.
Thank you to NetGalley for the review copy but these thoughts are my own.
August 27, 2026
The magic and the world-building in this story was quite unique. I liked the weaving of the two prophecies together, the revelations that came piece by piece, and the slow revealing of how magic and the world worked. That's not to say that the book doesn't have its dark moments. After all, it involves a group of people being persecuted for who they are, a kingdom suffering under multiple threats, and a bond between two people who believe they are destined to be forever enemies. The relationships between the two main characters and those around them develop slowly but in a way that makes sense and feel organic.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely LOVE this book. The fated enemies? And the fake dating/betrothal? Yessssss please. I love that this is part of the Brytwilde world and yet is its own thing. The magic is very well done-healing vs mind reading/manipulation. Who is good? What does that mean? Can you outwit fate? There are phoenix shifters! It’s glorious. And the fmc Isoria is so lovely. Like she’s strong and soft, determined and gentle. Love her. This kept me turning the pages. I love the way Rachel is always exploring the grey areas. Always keeps me on my toes.
Review of advance copy
5🌟 1🫑
THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!
I loved every second of it,
And loved the relationship between the characters.
The characters are amazing, and the flow of events was smooth and not rushed at all.
And I cried. A lot.
This may be my favorite book this month. And I was so existed for it already.
And I didn't expect the main villain at all.
So, if you want to read a great world, a different types of creatures, and an epic romance on the long way, I highly recommend this book for you.
THIS BOOK WAS AMAZING!
I loved every second of it,
And loved the relationship between the characters.
The characters are amazing, and the flow of events was smooth and not rushed at all.
And I cried. A lot.
This may be my favorite book this month. And I was so existed for it already.
And I didn't expect the main villain at all.
So, if you want to read a great world, a different types of creatures, and an epic romance on the long way, I highly recommend this book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I will admit, it did take me a minute to get into the book. Once I was in, I was all in! I wish we got more in depth with the world building and magic, but what was given was enough to grasp everything! I'm an absolute sucker for any sort of romantic tension and I can gladly say I was given a lotttt of it. I'm so very grateful to have received an advance copy for free and am always happy to leave reviews (voluntarily of course!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had prophecies, tension and good banter. It also had good world building, especially for a standalone. Everything was explained clearly. The whole undead situation was wild. I love that there are phoenix shifters (except the whole being hunted thing) because it’s such an unusual shifter to read about. It also seemed very symbolic of the journey Isoria and Archer went on in the story, what with being prophesied fated enemies and all that. Overall, I really enjoyed this book.
August 12, 2026
The premise hooked me in and did not let me go! I read this feverishly. It had everything that I love when reading books. The forced proximity as they have to work together and so the banter was also spot on. I was smiling like a doofus while reading their interactions😝
Does this have to be a standalone 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 please!
Thank you for the ARC. All opinions are my own
Does this have to be a standalone 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 please!
Thank you for the ARC. All opinions are my own
July 30, 2026
This book had a lot going on: prophecies, curses, gods, family drama, phoenixes, zombies, blood bonds…it wound around more than I thought was strictly necessary, but there were a few twists I didn’t see coming. The ending is satisfying, but I wonder if there may be more stories to be told from this world…
Advance Reader Copy review.
Advance Reader Copy review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is such a unique and intriguing story. I could not put it down. I loved both the main characters and the way Rachel wrote the gods and goddesses in this one.
Kisses only, mild to moderate violence, no swearing
Kisses only, mild to moderate violence, no swearing
Review of advance copy received from Author
A fantastic slow burn enemies to lovers standalone with allllll the tension and banter. I love it when an FMC can be soft and fierce. Great mental health rep too!! You def want to read this one!!
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