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Veil of Ruin
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Expected 3 Nov 26Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for this free ARC! All opinions are honest and my own!
RELEASING NOVEMBER 3RD, VEIL OF RUIN BY E.A.
ELLIS, IS A GOTHIC MURDER MYSTERY WITH STEAMY SLOW BURN ROMANCE, IMPECCABLE BANTER, A CREEPY MANOR, AND THE MOST LOVABLE DOG SIDEKICK!
WELCOME TO WALLER MANOR.
WATCH YOUR STEP.
WE FOLLOW QUIRKY AINSLEY ELWOOD AS SHE ATTENDS HER EX'S WEDDING, WHERE THE BRIDE IS LATER FOUND DEAD. SHE BECOMES DETECTIVE ASHFORD'S PRIME SUSPECT. HE'S TATTOOED, HE'S MOODY, AND HE'S DETERMINED TO SOLVE THE CASE. UNFORTUNATELY FOR THEM, THERE ARE SO MANY BURIED SECRETS THAI THEY DON'T KNOW WHO TO TRUST.
Y'ALL... I READ THIS IN ONE SITTING, THAT'S HOW INVESTED I WAS IN THE STORY! RIGHT FROM THE START, I WAS HOOKED. THE EERIE VIBES WERE IMMACULATE AND I FELT FULLY IMMERSED IN NOT ONLY THE SETTING, BUT THE PLOT TOO.
I'M PRETTY PICKY ABOUT MURDER MYSTERIES BECAUSE I USUALLY CAN GUESS "WHODUNNIT" BUT THAT WASN'T THE CASE WITH THIS STORY AT ALL! I WAS SO SURPRISED THAT LAUDIBLY GASPED SEVERAL TIMES.
WALLER MANOR WAS NOT ONLY CREEPY BUT CLAUSTROPHOBIC, AND THE FOGGY ATMOSPHERE HAD MY HAIR STANDING ON END.
THIS WAS AN INSANELY QUICK READ AND VERY
HARD FOR ME TO PUT DOWN!
THE "FUCK IT" MOMENT ABSOLUTELY DID ME IN IT WAS SOOOO HOT AND THE SPICE WAS TASTEFULLY DONE. I LIKE HOW WE REALLY HAD TO WORK FOR THE SLOW BURN IN THIS!
OVERALL, I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK A THOUSAND TIMES OVER. ADD VEIL OF RUIN TO YOUR GOODREADS SHELF TODAY!
RELEASING NOVEMBER 3RD, VEIL OF RUIN BY E.A.
ELLIS, IS A GOTHIC MURDER MYSTERY WITH STEAMY SLOW BURN ROMANCE, IMPECCABLE BANTER, A CREEPY MANOR, AND THE MOST LOVABLE DOG SIDEKICK!
WELCOME TO WALLER MANOR.
WATCH YOUR STEP.
WE FOLLOW QUIRKY AINSLEY ELWOOD AS SHE ATTENDS HER EX'S WEDDING, WHERE THE BRIDE IS LATER FOUND DEAD. SHE BECOMES DETECTIVE ASHFORD'S PRIME SUSPECT. HE'S TATTOOED, HE'S MOODY, AND HE'S DETERMINED TO SOLVE THE CASE. UNFORTUNATELY FOR THEM, THERE ARE SO MANY BURIED SECRETS THAI THEY DON'T KNOW WHO TO TRUST.
Y'ALL... I READ THIS IN ONE SITTING, THAT'S HOW INVESTED I WAS IN THE STORY! RIGHT FROM THE START, I WAS HOOKED. THE EERIE VIBES WERE IMMACULATE AND I FELT FULLY IMMERSED IN NOT ONLY THE SETTING, BUT THE PLOT TOO.
I'M PRETTY PICKY ABOUT MURDER MYSTERIES BECAUSE I USUALLY CAN GUESS "WHODUNNIT" BUT THAT WASN'T THE CASE WITH THIS STORY AT ALL! I WAS SO SURPRISED THAT LAUDIBLY GASPED SEVERAL TIMES.
WALLER MANOR WAS NOT ONLY CREEPY BUT CLAUSTROPHOBIC, AND THE FOGGY ATMOSPHERE HAD MY HAIR STANDING ON END.
THIS WAS AN INSANELY QUICK READ AND VERY
HARD FOR ME TO PUT DOWN!
THE "FUCK IT" MOMENT ABSOLUTELY DID ME IN IT WAS SOOOO HOT AND THE SPICE WAS TASTEFULLY DONE. I LIKE HOW WE REALLY HAD TO WORK FOR THE SLOW BURN IN THIS!
OVERALL, I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK A THOUSAND TIMES OVER. ADD VEIL OF RUIN TO YOUR GOODREADS SHELF TODAY!
September 22, 2026
I literally could not put it down! I finished it in one day! Amazing story, plot and twists. It was like a movie going on and I never wanted it to stop! I laughed, I said what the heck and WAIT WHAT?! I cannot wait for another story from this author.
September 25, 2026
Thank you E.A. Ellis for the advanced reader copy of Veil of Ruin! This was a fun (idk if that’s the right word for a murder mystery but I’m saying it 😆) read. I INHALED this book I finished it in about a day and a half. The vibes were immaculate for a dark gothic closed looped murder mystery.
The FMC Ainsley Elwood is so relatable! She’s clumsy, witty, projects confidence (even she internally she’s freaking out) her inner monologue was so funny and had me snorting and laughing along at times and riddled with anxiety at other times when there was something dark or spooky happening.
Detective Alex Ashford is smart as hell, tattooed and one sexy man 🥵 tasked with solving the murder of the bride. Ainsley being the ex-girlfriend of the groom is his top suspect. I loved that we got a few chapters of his POV sprinkled throughout the book. I love when we get the MMC POV!
His chemistry with Ainsley is so good. The tension between Ainsley and Ashford is palpable (both sexual and the murder). She’s not his biggest fan but maybe she is? The spice is top tier as well! But I also called the author a “cockblock” in DM’s (she won’t care about me sharing that here). She just laughed at me lol.
The murder mystery was so well done. You never really know who’s done the murder at any given time. Everyone is a suspect ultimately. This and the gothic manor with all kinds of dark, aesthetics were perfection and a great read for fall!
Go Pre-order your copy today! I can’t recommend this enough!
The FMC Ainsley Elwood is so relatable! She’s clumsy, witty, projects confidence (even she internally she’s freaking out) her inner monologue was so funny and had me snorting and laughing along at times and riddled with anxiety at other times when there was something dark or spooky happening.
Detective Alex Ashford is smart as hell, tattooed and one sexy man 🥵 tasked with solving the murder of the bride. Ainsley being the ex-girlfriend of the groom is his top suspect. I loved that we got a few chapters of his POV sprinkled throughout the book. I love when we get the MMC POV!
His chemistry with Ainsley is so good. The tension between Ainsley and Ashford is palpable (both sexual and the murder). She’s not his biggest fan but maybe she is? The spice is top tier as well! But I also called the author a “cockblock” in DM’s (she won’t care about me sharing that here). She just laughed at me lol.
The murder mystery was so well done. You never really know who’s done the murder at any given time. Everyone is a suspect ultimately. This and the gothic manor with all kinds of dark, aesthetics were perfection and a great read for fall!
Go Pre-order your copy today! I can’t recommend this enough!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fun, exciting and atmospheric. The twists will leave you shocked!
Greyhaven & Waller Manor are my kind of place. Old gothic architecture, hidden places in the woods, gargoyles? Yes. It's in this book. The location makes the perfect setting for this murder mystery.
We arrive at Waller Manor and there is immediately a murder to be solved. Detective Ashford is the main man on the case. Ainsley is the primary suspect. We go on many adventures with the detective and Ainsley, and their back and forth bantar could not be better. Their interactions had me laughing out loud.
" A wedding brought these people here. A death is what will keep them."
Along the way, more people may end up joining that same fate.
I loved the main characters. Ainsley & Alex were so good together. Bruno the golden retriever was my favourite, of course. Some of the minor characters were also faves, like Jenny and Darlene. However, the other characters, or seemingly villans, - may be a better term - will make you hate each of them, very much.
I flew through this book. It is fast paced, easy to read, held my interest, and the writing is witty and funny, but also serious and nerve wracking at other times.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I was fully immersed into the Waller Manor case files and murder mystery.
The twists at the end are shocking! I did not see any of it coming.
Let's just say, justice is thoroughly served. Happily ever afters are met.
Veil of Ruin is a must read.
Thank you to the author, E.A. Ellis for allowing me to be an ARC reader for Veil of Ruin and bringing me along for this fantastic journey.
Greyhaven & Waller Manor are my kind of place. Old gothic architecture, hidden places in the woods, gargoyles? Yes. It's in this book. The location makes the perfect setting for this murder mystery.
We arrive at Waller Manor and there is immediately a murder to be solved. Detective Ashford is the main man on the case. Ainsley is the primary suspect. We go on many adventures with the detective and Ainsley, and their back and forth bantar could not be better. Their interactions had me laughing out loud.
" A wedding brought these people here. A death is what will keep them."
Along the way, more people may end up joining that same fate.
I loved the main characters. Ainsley & Alex were so good together. Bruno the golden retriever was my favourite, of course. Some of the minor characters were also faves, like Jenny and Darlene. However, the other characters, or seemingly villans, - may be a better term - will make you hate each of them, very much.
I flew through this book. It is fast paced, easy to read, held my interest, and the writing is witty and funny, but also serious and nerve wracking at other times.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I was fully immersed into the Waller Manor case files and murder mystery.
The twists at the end are shocking! I did not see any of it coming.
Let's just say, justice is thoroughly served. Happily ever afters are met.
Veil of Ruin is a must read.
Thank you to the author, E.A. Ellis for allowing me to be an ARC reader for Veil of Ruin and bringing me along for this fantastic journey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC REVIEW✨
First of all and most importantly. Everyone add this to your immediate TBR (Comes out in November) This was easily one of my favorite reads of the year. I seriously cannot believe this was @E.A Ellis debut novel… 🤯 I had a hard time putting this book down, amazing plot/twist and turns. The FMC’s inner dialogue in this book was FANTASTIC, she was hilarious, the BANTER 10/10, the mystery. It was creepy, steamy, funny, a little spooky.
Veil Of Ruin comes out November 3rd (mark your calendars)!!!! Thank you @e.a Ellis for letting me arc read this. Down below are some of the tropes you can expect while reading it!!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
𝐌𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲
𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐱 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭
𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐞𝐝 & 𝐏𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐌𝐂 🥵
"𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮" 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
"𝐅*𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐭" 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐭
𝐆𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐜/𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐬
First of all and most importantly. Everyone add this to your immediate TBR (Comes out in November) This was easily one of my favorite reads of the year. I seriously cannot believe this was @E.A Ellis debut novel… 🤯 I had a hard time putting this book down, amazing plot/twist and turns. The FMC’s inner dialogue in this book was FANTASTIC, she was hilarious, the BANTER 10/10, the mystery. It was creepy, steamy, funny, a little spooky.
Veil Of Ruin comes out November 3rd (mark your calendars)!!!! Thank you @e.a Ellis for letting me arc read this. Down below are some of the tropes you can expect while reading it!!
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
𝐌𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐲
𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐱 𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐮𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭
𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐞𝐝 & 𝐏𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐌𝐌𝐂 🥵
"𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮" 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
"𝐅*𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐭" 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐭
𝐆𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐜/𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐬
October 3, 2026
Loved this book!
Generally loved this book. Through out the whole book there was always something interesting going on that always had my attention. I really enjoyed having both the romance and thriller aspect in one book. I can’t wait to read more books by this authors as she progresses threw her writing journey!
Generally loved this book. Through out the whole book there was always something interesting going on that always had my attention. I really enjoyed having both the romance and thriller aspect in one book. I can’t wait to read more books by this authors as she progresses threw her writing journey!
September 28, 2026
Thank you to E. A. Ellis for this ARC! 🥰
Firstly, I’d just like to start off by taking a moment for the real MVP; Bruno 🐶
When I first came across this book, I was SO excited. A murder mystery set within gothic style manor, with a little bit of spice AND a dog?!! Count me in!! I signed up for this ARC SO fast and it did not disappoint.
The scene setting was done really well; the creepy village, the dreary weather and the overbearing manor really set you on edge right from the start. I thought the juxtaposition of this against Ainsley’s sprightly and humorous personality really helped to build that unsettling tension. There were multiple moments where I could really feel the tension from the scene building in myself and again, Ainsley’s personality and clumsiness really added to this (genuinely don’t think I’ve ever read a character that’s so me in my life 😂) as you were just waiting for something to happen. Generally speaking, the mixture of comedic throwaway lines against the tense, serious moments really pulled in my attention and built the intense atmosphere.
I loved the fact that you were almost instantly thrown into the manor after a short context-setting chapter - I have found with other murder mystery books that it can take a little too for the proper story to kick off and I would get bored but that wasn’t the case at all with this one. The writing style was engaging and easy to follow, and I found myself very drawn into the story and kept wanting to carry on to the next chapter.
One of this book’s strongest areas is the character writing and development. I was absolutely obsessed with how Ainsley was written; her personality shone through right from the beginning of the book, and the relationship development between Ainsley & Detective Ashford felt so natural and realistic and I was really rooting for them from early on. Overall, the characters you were meant to love, I loved, and the characters you were meant to hate, I hated. Also, a special mention to the development of Detective Ashford as well, which I thought was done bloody fabulously.
The single thing I would’ve changed about this book, is I’d have loved to see more of the investigative bits throughout the middle. I feel like Ainsley’s personality would’ve had her majorly sleuthing around the manor, trying to uncover secrets and I would have loved to see that side of it a little more, however I can also see that this would’ve been difficult to do without making the book feel too long.
Finally, the twist… Generally speaking, I find that I’m able to quite closely identify where a book is going, but my god I did not with this one. The last 20% or so had my actual jaw on the floor and I was obsessed. It had me rooting for the characters even more than I already was and it genuinely wrapped up all the questions I’d had crop up throughout the story.
All in all, I think this was a very good book. It was tense, gripping, emotional, & atmospheric. The twist genuinely had me at the edge of my seat and I cannot wait to be able to read more from this author.
Firstly, I’d just like to start off by taking a moment for the real MVP; Bruno 🐶
When I first came across this book, I was SO excited. A murder mystery set within gothic style manor, with a little bit of spice AND a dog?!! Count me in!! I signed up for this ARC SO fast and it did not disappoint.
The scene setting was done really well; the creepy village, the dreary weather and the overbearing manor really set you on edge right from the start. I thought the juxtaposition of this against Ainsley’s sprightly and humorous personality really helped to build that unsettling tension. There were multiple moments where I could really feel the tension from the scene building in myself and again, Ainsley’s personality and clumsiness really added to this (genuinely don’t think I’ve ever read a character that’s so me in my life 😂) as you were just waiting for something to happen. Generally speaking, the mixture of comedic throwaway lines against the tense, serious moments really pulled in my attention and built the intense atmosphere.
I loved the fact that you were almost instantly thrown into the manor after a short context-setting chapter - I have found with other murder mystery books that it can take a little too for the proper story to kick off and I would get bored but that wasn’t the case at all with this one. The writing style was engaging and easy to follow, and I found myself very drawn into the story and kept wanting to carry on to the next chapter.
One of this book’s strongest areas is the character writing and development. I was absolutely obsessed with how Ainsley was written; her personality shone through right from the beginning of the book, and the relationship development between Ainsley & Detective Ashford felt so natural and realistic and I was really rooting for them from early on. Overall, the characters you were meant to love, I loved, and the characters you were meant to hate, I hated. Also, a special mention to the development of Detective Ashford as well, which I thought was done bloody fabulously.
The single thing I would’ve changed about this book, is I’d have loved to see more of the investigative bits throughout the middle. I feel like Ainsley’s personality would’ve had her majorly sleuthing around the manor, trying to uncover secrets and I would have loved to see that side of it a little more, however I can also see that this would’ve been difficult to do without making the book feel too long.
Finally, the twist… Generally speaking, I find that I’m able to quite closely identify where a book is going, but my god I did not with this one. The last 20% or so had my actual jaw on the floor and I was obsessed. It had me rooting for the characters even more than I already was and it genuinely wrapped up all the questions I’d had crop up throughout the story.
All in all, I think this was a very good book. It was tense, gripping, emotional, & atmospheric. The twist genuinely had me at the edge of my seat and I cannot wait to be able to read more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was such a fun read! I was theorizing, laughing, and then mind blown with the plot twist. I could not put this down and devoured it in 24 hours.
Ainsley, the FMC (and number one suspect in the murder investigation), was so damn funny and I loved her character so much. She is blunt, clumsy, and has a fierce love for her sweet pup, Bruno. Alex, the MMC, is the broody, serious, hot tattooed detective. The banter between them was great especially because she is so blunt and he’s so serious. I could not stop laughing. And Bruno, omg I just wanted to reach in and give him belly rubs!!
The setting is dark, gothic, creepy, and I loved all the details that really helped you to envision Waller Manor.
Throughout this book I kept thinking I had things figured out, I was suspicious of literally everyone, and then I was completely shocked at the end. You will be left on the edge of your seat trying to figure out who did it. I was hooked from the first page to the last, there was never a dull moment.
If you like murder, mystery, betrayal, humor, great banter, slow burn with a dash of spice, and a huge plot twist you will love this book!
Ainsley, the FMC (and number one suspect in the murder investigation), was so damn funny and I loved her character so much. She is blunt, clumsy, and has a fierce love for her sweet pup, Bruno. Alex, the MMC, is the broody, serious, hot tattooed detective. The banter between them was great especially because she is so blunt and he’s so serious. I could not stop laughing. And Bruno, omg I just wanted to reach in and give him belly rubs!!
The setting is dark, gothic, creepy, and I loved all the details that really helped you to envision Waller Manor.
Throughout this book I kept thinking I had things figured out, I was suspicious of literally everyone, and then I was completely shocked at the end. You will be left on the edge of your seat trying to figure out who did it. I was hooked from the first page to the last, there was never a dull moment.
If you like murder, mystery, betrayal, humor, great banter, slow burn with a dash of spice, and a huge plot twist you will love this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you E.A. Ellis, for the ARC of Veil of Ruin.
The characters in this book truly came to life through the way the author wrote about them and I fell in love with Ainsley, Alex, and Bruno.
Ainsley's personality made me feel like we could be friends instantly. I loved her quirkiness.
Alex...what more can we say about a tattooed detective? YES PLEASE
I can vividly picture Bruno lying everywhere, spread-eagle. LOL All he wants are belly rubs!
The manor setting came to life with the carefully thought-out details the author included. I felt like I was on the grounds and walking through secret passageways, waiting to see what happens next!
and WOW...talk about PLOT TWIST. I was so confident in who the murder suspect was until the very end. What a great way to throw us off and have us on the edge of our seats until the very end.
I cannot wait to read what E.A. Ellis comes out with next. But for now, get your hands on a copy of "VEIL OF RUIN" coming out on November 3rd (order your presale book NOW)
The characters in this book truly came to life through the way the author wrote about them and I fell in love with Ainsley, Alex, and Bruno.
Ainsley's personality made me feel like we could be friends instantly. I loved her quirkiness.
Alex...what more can we say about a tattooed detective? YES PLEASE
I can vividly picture Bruno lying everywhere, spread-eagle. LOL All he wants are belly rubs!
The manor setting came to life with the carefully thought-out details the author included. I felt like I was on the grounds and walking through secret passageways, waiting to see what happens next!
and WOW...talk about PLOT TWIST. I was so confident in who the murder suspect was until the very end. What a great way to throw us off and have us on the edge of our seats until the very end.
I cannot wait to read what E.A. Ellis comes out with next. But for now, get your hands on a copy of "VEIL OF RUIN" coming out on November 3rd (order your presale book NOW)
October 5, 2026
Thank you to the author for letting me read her arc book. I absolutely loved it.
This story is creepy , steamy and murder-y. There has been a wedding interrupted by nothing less than murder of the bride. The mmc (Alex)is a moody, tattooed detective, who really wants to solve this murder case. The fmc (Ainsley) is a murder suspect and the grooms ex girlfriend and the best part is her dog Bruno!
Alex and Ainsley will have to work together to prove whether or not she committed the crime. The bantering along the way is amazing. The twists at the end is great I wasn’t expecting another surprise. The spice is 2🌶️ but when it hits, it is good. I finished this story pretty quickly, couldn’t put jt down.
Some mysteries will haunt you forever! Be sure you want the truth before digging up the past. Well worth the read!
Detective vs suspect
Sinister manor
Forced proximity
Family secret
Dark gothic manor
Murder mystery
Slow burn
This story is creepy , steamy and murder-y. There has been a wedding interrupted by nothing less than murder of the bride. The mmc (Alex)is a moody, tattooed detective, who really wants to solve this murder case. The fmc (Ainsley) is a murder suspect and the grooms ex girlfriend and the best part is her dog Bruno!
Alex and Ainsley will have to work together to prove whether or not she committed the crime. The bantering along the way is amazing. The twists at the end is great I wasn’t expecting another surprise. The spice is 2🌶️ but when it hits, it is good. I finished this story pretty quickly, couldn’t put jt down.
Some mysteries will haunt you forever! Be sure you want the truth before digging up the past. Well worth the read!
Detective vs suspect
Sinister manor
Forced proximity
Family secret
Dark gothic manor
Murder mystery
Slow burn
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was so much fun! The banter had me laughing out loud, and the chemistry between the two main characters was so good. I was completely swept up in this immersive world. The setting was dark and spooky, but the addition of a sweet dog was the perfect touch. This book had me second-guessing who the murderer was the entire time! The ending was both surprising and satisfying, and I loved how the twists kept me guessing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
No way, no way this is a debut! The writing is absolutely fantastic. The word choices, the dialogue, the flow of the story… Everything feels so natural and effortless. From the very first pages, I was drawn into the story and immediately charmed by Ainsley. She’s funny, clumsy and incredibly relatable. She is the kind of character you can’t help but like. As she puts it herself later in the book: "Because, Ashford, I am spontaneous, exciting and committed to keeping you on your toes." Honestly, that pretty much sums her up!
And then there’s Ashford! They first meet at the wedding, right before the bride's murder comes to light. At first, he comes across as rather arrogant and quick to judge. Ainsley certainly gets the impression that he looks down on her. But then we get his POV and it quickly becomes clear that he looks far beyond surface appearances. His recollection of a prostitute he once worked with, whose sharp wit he admired despite his superior's lack of interest, immediately made me warm to him. There's clearly more to Ashford than meets the eye. Of course, that also left me wondering why he was at the wedding in the first place…
I also loved how the tension between the two builds up gradually. The banter and flirting are fantastic, but I really appreciated that Ashford still tries to keep his distance because his job means so much to him. Well, 'fuck it', most of the time, anyway! ;)
The gothic atmosphere is another highlight. It's beautifully woven into the setting, from the manor itself to its grounds. There are some wonderfully creepy details along the way, including a tea party with dolls and a rather unsettling carousel. It really makes you wonder about the backstory there, especially considering Ryan (the groom) is a boy and there's no mention of any sisters. I love it when a book makes me question even the smallest details!
The whole story is wrapped in mystery, with plenty of questions keeping you guessing. But it's not all dark and gloomy. There's also so much humour and warmth, not to mention Bruno, the absolutely wonderful dog. ❤️ That combination of gothic mystery, romance, witty banter and heartwarming moments makes for a fantastic reading experience. It's the kind of book that makes you want to keep turning the pages, even when you should probably be doing something else.
And that ending! It really got to me. Even if you can feel it coming to a degree, it was still unexpected. It really made me reflect on everything I had read. The emotional impact lingered long after I closed the book.
If this is what the author delivers with a debut, I can't wait to see what comes next!
And then there’s Ashford! They first meet at the wedding, right before the bride's murder comes to light. At first, he comes across as rather arrogant and quick to judge. Ainsley certainly gets the impression that he looks down on her. But then we get his POV and it quickly becomes clear that he looks far beyond surface appearances. His recollection of a prostitute he once worked with, whose sharp wit he admired despite his superior's lack of interest, immediately made me warm to him. There's clearly more to Ashford than meets the eye. Of course, that also left me wondering why he was at the wedding in the first place…
I also loved how the tension between the two builds up gradually. The banter and flirting are fantastic, but I really appreciated that Ashford still tries to keep his distance because his job means so much to him. Well, 'fuck it', most of the time, anyway! ;)
The gothic atmosphere is another highlight. It's beautifully woven into the setting, from the manor itself to its grounds. There are some wonderfully creepy details along the way, including a tea party with dolls and a rather unsettling carousel. It really makes you wonder about the backstory there, especially considering Ryan (the groom) is a boy and there's no mention of any sisters. I love it when a book makes me question even the smallest details!
The whole story is wrapped in mystery, with plenty of questions keeping you guessing. But it's not all dark and gloomy. There's also so much humour and warmth, not to mention Bruno, the absolutely wonderful dog. ❤️ That combination of gothic mystery, romance, witty banter and heartwarming moments makes for a fantastic reading experience. It's the kind of book that makes you want to keep turning the pages, even when you should probably be doing something else.
And that ending! It really got to me. Even if you can feel it coming to a degree, it was still unexpected. It really made me reflect on everything I had read. The emotional impact lingered long after I closed the book.
If this is what the author delivers with a debut, I can't wait to see what comes next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Would have read this much quicker if I hadn't had to stop to go to work 🤣 Thank you so much for the ARC of Veil of Ruin, loved it! A Gothic vibe murder mystery, featuring a mysterious detective, a FMC who was totally relatable and an emotional support dog, Bruno, who was just fabulous. The FMC's internal monologue was hilarious and I loved how sometimes things just slipped out accidentally, and at the worst possible moments! I thought I had the who-done-it all figured out but the twists are twisty and I loved being completely wrong! Definitely recommended! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got an ARC from the author and just finished it. Fantastic read from a new author on their debut book. It had elements of Gothic spooky vibes from the location. It has a fun and impulsive FMC, I just love her! I'm not a dog person but man Bruno makes me want one, he's such a good boy! Aww man the MMC, hot tatooed detective that can put me in handcuffs any time! There are a few critiques, but I can't share them. They would all be spoilers and I'm trying to be spoiler free. At the end of the day it's totally worth the read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
One wedding, One murder, One manor where everyone is a suspect......
This book is definitely a really good quick read. The character build is great and the story makes you feel like youre into the murder mystery yourself. You'll think you figured it out and have your aha moment and then boom its not what it seemed. You'll be engrossed in this story and wint be able to put it down. It is definitely a book worth reading.
This book is definitely a really good quick read. The character build is great and the story makes you feel like youre into the murder mystery yourself. You'll think you figured it out and have your aha moment and then boom its not what it seemed. You'll be engrossed in this story and wint be able to put it down. It is definitely a book worth reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 stars rounded up to 4
I ARC read this book and while I didn't love it, it was still a quick fun enough read. I wasn't super surprised by the twist at the end as I did guess half of it, but the other half never even crossed my mind so I did like the surprise.
There was a lot of humor in here that just wasn't for me and I think if it were more aligned with my humor would've liked it better. But if you want a quick little murder mystery/clue adjacent story would recommend this.
I ARC read this book and while I didn't love it, it was still a quick fun enough read. I wasn't super surprised by the twist at the end as I did guess half of it, but the other half never even crossed my mind so I did like the surprise.
There was a lot of humor in here that just wasn't for me and I think if it were more aligned with my humor would've liked it better. But if you want a quick little murder mystery/clue adjacent story would recommend this.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Reader Copy Review (I never do these):
It was SO GOOD. I loved the story line, all the twists and turns, the spice, the silly furry companion, just all of it! It definitely caught me by surprise in more than one occasion! I can't wait for it to be fully released so everyone else can enjoy it!
Congratulations my friend on your debut novel <3
It was SO GOOD. I loved the story line, all the twists and turns, the spice, the silly furry companion, just all of it! It definitely caught me by surprise in more than one occasion! I can't wait for it to be fully released so everyone else can enjoy it!
Congratulations my friend on your debut novel <3
September 30, 2026
This was such a good book! The ending had me absolutely shocked and I was not expecting it!! Bruno I think was an amazing add on to the story and definitely made it so good! Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely amazing story!!! Did I finish the book or did it finish me??? This story had the perfect mystery whodunnit, witty banter, lovable characters, & a kickass furry sidekick! Totally recommend this for anyone who loves a great mystery with suspense 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book! The story was so captivating that I genuinely couldn’t put it down. It took me on an exciting, gut-wrenching ride from beginning to end, and the payoff left me with the most satisfying sense of righteous justice. I was completely hooked and loved every second of it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, E.A. Ellis, for the honor of getting to read Veil of Ruin! 🖤
I absolutely LOVED this book! It was so easily bingeable and gave me all the perfect fall reading vibes. Waller Manor was the perfect setting for this murder mystery—the creepy, haunted mansion atmosphere had me completely hooked from the beginning. 👻🍂
Ainsley is 100% my spirit animal. 😂 Her humor and complete lack of a filter had me absolutely cackling throughout the entire book. But honestly, her love for her dog Bruno might have been my favorite thing about her. 🐶❤️
And then there’s the tension and banter between Ainsley and Detective Ashford… 🔥🥵 The chemistry was DELICIOUS and brought just the right amount of spice to the story. A tattooed and pierced man? Yes, fucking please. 🙏🙌
This book had me hooked from start to finish, and that ending?! I was completely thrown for a loop. I genuinely did NOT see it coming, and I was absolutely shocked—in the best possible way!
I absolutely LOVED this book! It was so easily bingeable and gave me all the perfect fall reading vibes. Waller Manor was the perfect setting for this murder mystery—the creepy, haunted mansion atmosphere had me completely hooked from the beginning. 👻🍂
Ainsley is 100% my spirit animal. 😂 Her humor and complete lack of a filter had me absolutely cackling throughout the entire book. But honestly, her love for her dog Bruno might have been my favorite thing about her. 🐶❤️
And then there’s the tension and banter between Ainsley and Detective Ashford… 🔥🥵 The chemistry was DELICIOUS and brought just the right amount of spice to the story. A tattooed and pierced man? Yes, fucking please. 🙏🙌
This book had me hooked from start to finish, and that ending?! I was completely thrown for a loop. I genuinely did NOT see it coming, and I was absolutely shocked—in the best possible way!
September 27, 2026
Getting the privilege to read A Veil of Ruin by E.A. Ellis was extra special because not only did I get to read an incredible story, but I got to watch my friend bring her own book to life. There’s something so exciting about seeing someone you know create a story from the ground up, and I’m so grateful I got to be one of the people who read it early. 🥹🖤
This book pulled me in with its dark atmosphere, intriguing characters, and all the tension woven throughout the story. I loved getting lost in the world and watching everything unfold. There were so many moments that had me wanting to keep reading just to see what would happen next, and the story definitely kept me hooked.
If you love books filled with mystery, tension, secrets, and a story that keeps you turning the pages, A Veil of Ruin needs to be on your TBR! I’m beyond grateful to have received an ARC and to have had the privilege of reading something my friend created. 🖤
This book pulled me in with its dark atmosphere, intriguing characters, and all the tension woven throughout the story. I loved getting lost in the world and watching everything unfold. There were so many moments that had me wanting to keep reading just to see what would happen next, and the story definitely kept me hooked.
If you love books filled with mystery, tension, secrets, and a story that keeps you turning the pages, A Veil of Ruin needs to be on your TBR! I’m beyond grateful to have received an ARC and to have had the privilege of reading something my friend created. 🖤
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