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War and Deceit #3

Fires of Ruin

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Saviour. Traitor. Beloved.

These are just some of the names they call me.

All I want is a home, a place of safety, and answers about my past, but there’s danger around every corner.

I have many names, but I have no idea who I am anymore.

Clarissa and Vaeril finally escaped Arhaven, but Clarissa is not who she thought she was. Part-elf, she should be at home amongst the elves, but there are people who would rather see her dead than complete her mating bond with Vaeril.

When Tor, from the Mountain Tribes, arrives with answers about her past, will she stay with the elves and the relative safety of their city, or will she leave everything behind in a quest to find out who she is?

Only one thing is certain, if she’s not careful the Fires of Ruin will destroy everything she knows.

This book three in the War and Deceit series and is intended for readers 18+ and is a RH story. There are some scenes that younger readers may find upsetting.

392 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 4, 2020

152 people are currently reading
176 people want to read

About the author

Erin O'Kane

66 books487 followers
Erin O'Kane is an independent author from the UK. She used to work within healthcare, but now is able to follow her dream as a full time author. Writing is her escape and a dream she never thought possible until she was given a push from her friends and family.

She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.

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5 stars
286 (43%)
4 stars
203 (30%)
3 stars
120 (18%)
2 stars
34 (5%)
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13 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Profile Image for Al *the semi serial series skipper*.
1,659 reviews853 followers
September 10, 2020
I'm sorry but this book is going nowhere. I assume it's been a few months since the previous book was released and I read it ( too lazy to check) and yet it feels like I haven't missed anything. If I remember correctly, in the last book they escaped to the Elven kingdom , leaving Grayson where ever he was.

In this book they are in the Elven kingdom , Tor is acting as ambassador between the Mountain people and the Elves, the twins are still skeptical about her though they warm up towards the end of the book and Grayson makes a very very brief appearance and leaves again.

I think I had pleaded/asked for more romance after reading the last book but obviously the author doesn't read reviews because this book did not bring it. A harem where one of the guys is lost the entire book, where another cannot even see her because he is involved in politics and another guy who might be a new addition in her harem based on how douchy he's been acting.

I don't think I am going to read the next book at this point because I can already tell that nothing is going to happen either.
Profile Image for Amber J (Thereadingwitch).
1,174 reviews86 followers
March 22, 2022
Book 3 in this dark fantasy, reverse harem series.

Now Clarissa must navigate around the elves and their murderous Queen. All while coming to terms with having 3 bond mates and what that will mean for the future. She learns more about who she is and her past and what might become of her future.

I really like this story. It's super dark so beware. But there is so much mystery. I also want to mention how much I love the covers, gorgeous. The only thing I'm still struggling with is the romance. Reverse harem is super weird to me, and so far it seems like her choice not to choose, is just hurting all three of them. And what is with Eldrin?

Age recommendation 18+
This is a very dark book, with multiple partners, sex content and slavery.
Profile Image for Kasumatata.
1,140 reviews23 followers
September 10, 2020
Favorite Fantasy RH

This series has quickly made it to the top 10 of my reads for this year AND my overall favourite fantasy RH. Ever since I started reading, I was first and foremost a girl enjoying her fantasy books. The past few years I found it increasingly harder to get into new fantasy series because a lot of them had very similar plots which made me feel like I had read it all before.

Insert the War and Deceit series. It was with a healthy amount of scepticism that I went into the first book, because going from the blurb I felt like it wouldn't be my jam. But whaddayaknow?! I was completely and utterly taken by the world, characters and plot and basically binged the first 2 books back to back.

In Fires of Ruin, the author expands the world a little more with new, taking us to different places and from one big baddie to another one. We learn more about the background of the main characters and get some answers on previous questions.

What I really love about this series is how it is set at the perfect pace to allow the characters to bond and grow, without making it feel like it's rushed. Add to that the fact this book still made me feel majorly invested in these characters, where in other series it starts fizzling out the further we get into the story and I just know I have a winner on my hands.

Profile Image for Deena.
55 reviews1 follower
September 22, 2021
Well……. First book was good then it’s been down hill since. This heroine is so annoying and useless. I literally skimmed most of the book because I couldn’t take the whining and constant reminder of how she is so unworthy because she’s an ex-slave🙄. That got old really quickly.

I wish the story was not just being narrated by the heroine and we got to read from the mates perspectives. Just reading from hers is honestly a drag at this point. 😩

Profile Image for Noël.
81 reviews2 followers
April 25, 2021
I’m done with the series. Started okay, then got pretty good, then it just became a train wreck.
Profile Image for Missy Brown.
1,755 reviews30 followers
September 5, 2020
I have followed this series from the beginning and honestly it just keeps getting better and better. Which I do not know how, cause I thought it was pretty good to begin with. Erin does a great job of creating this world that I have gotten lost in. Everything from the writing style to the action, romance, pace and plot has been pretty spot on. Things do seem to step up the pace in this book, but overall I am very pleased with how this series is going.

So in Fires of Ruin Clarissa is getting stronger I think, but who would not be with the guys that she has backing her up. Sometimes when I am reading a book I like to parallel what I think I would do in that situation, and with Clarissa I sometimes find myself going why did she do that? But there is always a reason why authors write characters how they are, we just may not see it until later in the story.

So overall, Fires of Ruin is an great addition to this series and I need more. This series is one I would highly recommend.
Profile Image for Danielle (Danniegurl).
1,960 reviews110 followers
November 18, 2021
Really riveting

Honestly I’m devouring the series even with my frustration of people saying things and then Clarissa not insisting they address said topic. This happens numerous times in this book so I completely felt Clarissa’s frustration.

A lot happens here. We get to finally learn more of this world and get to see more of it.

I’m surprised Grayson gave in so quickly. Especially with his hatred of elves.


There were still some typos and some rehashing that was said only a paragraph ago that needs tidying but overall really enjoyable to read despite it also being emotionally heavy at times.
Profile Image for Katie.
1,990 reviews16 followers
September 4, 2020
This is really becoming such an amazing story. This is book 3 and needs to be read in order. Definitely a slower burn which is perfectly fine with me. Storyline itself is such an attention grabber. Started reading and just couldn’t put it down. Loving how this series is going. Definitely a must read series. This story itself of amazing. Loved it.
Profile Image for Karin Dirksen.
572 reviews7 followers
October 27, 2022
We finally get some more action in bed if you what I mean. Also the long anticipated reveals regarding the FMC's past happen in this book. . And holy moly what a surprise! And of that's not enough to convince you to read this book: this bigger purpose the Mother has given her is also finally revealed. Now just finding a way to realise that and save everyone no biggie right?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Charlotte.
420 reviews1 follower
September 6, 2020
I honestly can't recommend Erin o'Kanes books enough. Her writing style is superb. Her stories are gripping and captivating.

Fires of ruin is the 3rd book in the series. I have loved every word written in each book. This one is again first class.

The story is amazing and I am desperately waiting for the Next book..

I just don't know how to express how much I adore these books.
Profile Image for Clare Harrison.
1,074 reviews16 followers
September 5, 2020
Oh my, what a sensational journey! it's more than words on a screen, or pages in a book it's a visual in your mind.

The details so rich, the story so powerful I could see it all, and it's truly amazing!

This is the third book in the war and deceit series, and directly continues from book two "fires of treason".

We pick up with Tor the rugged mountain man making his grand entrance in Galandel the elven city, where he finds Clarissa and her mate Vaeril along with his two best friends.

She's desperately seeking answers now she knows she's more than just a human, but no where seems to be safe for her.

Hatred from high places is focused on her every move as she desperately tries to find her true home.

It's actually quite heartbreaking to see her pure heart and good intentions not being recieved as they should be.

I love her strength and commitment to the great mother. She never seizes to amaze me. Her brilliance and kind hearted moments brought me to my knees. She's like no other character I have ever met.

Vaeril and Tor are so very alike but uniquely different too. They may be from different races but they are both very much alpha characters who are possessive and passionate, fiery and stubborn.

The love that they share for Clarissa is full of tenderness and warmth along with compassion and a desire to be her only one. Can they ever learn to share?

I can't get enough of this series I don't ever want it to end, and I'm so glad that there is still more to come.

Profile Image for Charlene.
1,405 reviews27 followers
September 8, 2020
Fires of Ruin, book three in The War and Deceit series, continues the story of Clarissa, Vaeril, Grayson, and Tor. When Clarissa is reunited with Tor she is beyond thrilled to have the mountain man back in her life, but the elf Queen still pulls the strings and manages to not only keep Tor away from Clarissa, but she also begins to find ways to keep Vaeril and her new friends, twin brothers Eldrin and Naril busy as well. While Clarissa begins to learn more about her heritage, being that she is part wood elf and part human, the group of Clarissa, Vaeril and Naril, decide to go visit the wood elves. It isn’t until everything begins to turn in Clarissa’s favor that the Queen strikes once more, this time sending out a price on Clarissa’s head. Now it’s a race for Tor and the newly reunited group to make it to the mountain’s, along the way running into Grayson, and learning the full truth about her past.
This book also ends on a cliffhanger once again that leaves you on the edge of your seat, desperate for more. I can’t wait to read the next book and see what happens next for Clarissa, Vaeril, Grayson and Tor, as well as the brothers Naril and Eldrin.
Profile Image for J. Marie.
129 reviews8 followers
December 8, 2020
Where book 2 felt short this book felt long. It didn't feel tedious... though there were a few slow parts. Make no mistake, I'm still 100% invested in the story. We get a lotttt of answers in this book. Lots of moments of:
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There was one moment in particular of:
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Profile Image for Cass.
44 reviews1 follower
August 27, 2020
I'm giving this a 5 star review because as far as the plot depth, and storyline go, it's engaging, and keeps you looking for more because this has definitely been a slow burn!

My only detractor, and it didn't warrant a star removal, is that for probably the first third or so of the book the characters seemed all over the place, and it made the reading confusing to say the least. This did clear up the further I read, and by the end of the book I was once again happy-ish with the characters! Clarissa feels a bit wishywashy to me, and I can't tell if it's because of her past or the character itself needing just a bit better fleshing out to make her actions relatable.

All in all tho, a great 3rd book!! I love that the Author gave us an extra instead of the trilogy that was planned. We'll now see 4 books for the series, and it definitely needs that 4th, because anything else would have felt rushed!!

I can't wait for the conclusion, and I'd totally be okay with this becoming a 5 book series ❤
Profile Image for B ~ modern day bookworm~.
323 reviews1 follower
August 31, 2020
Queens of death, Kings of Blood, and the battle of blessings

This series has been a very slow burn. Very careful world building, allowing the characters to grow, and become closer to the final product of what they are destined to be.

Finally getting some answers that surround the wars, Clarissa, the mate bonds, all of what we’ve been beautifully, but painstakingly reading.

This series is like a magical quest in Lord of the Rings, frustrating like Game of Thrones, and captivating like a marvel movie.

Definitely ends like the rest on a cliffhanger, but I appreciate the moment to grasp and allow all the puzzle pieces that have been slowly laid down together and the pictures are finally forming.

Well done to Erin O’Kane for giving us readers an adventure, wrapped in tragedy, coated with love, and anxiously waiting for more.
Profile Image for Margaret.
376 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2020
Fires of Ruin Review (LOVED IT!!!!!)

All I can say is READ THIS! I love the slow burn romance in it between Clarissa, Vaeril, Tor, and her magician (I forgot his name 🙈😅😂). I'm not sure what part Eldrin will play due to what happened as the story progresses.

I hope to see more character growth in Clarissa in the next book if it is going to be the last one. I know her past is super tragic and it will take a long, long time to recover, but I'm not sure how she is going to be able to be the heroine of this story right now.

What I am sure about though? Even with the slow character growth and connection making between love interests, this book is phenomenally written! It will keep you engaged with the story and leave you wondering what could possible happen or be revealed next. Amazing job Erin!
Profile Image for Sabrina Warren.
22 reviews1 follower
May 26, 2021
I picked up the first book not knowing it was a RH story which really isn’t my thing but really enjoyed it - great story telling, and I thought that the main character was written beautifully. The second book was pretty good but I feel like this one focused so much on how everyone loved the main character and how conflicted she was about wanting multiple men that the story stalled. Instead of developing the story, I felt I was just waiting to see how many snarling males were going to profess their undying love to someone they barely know. I wanted more world building, next steps in the quest to finding out who she is, and the purpose of all of it. Maybe the next book? Not sure if I want to continue though…
Profile Image for Naurarwen.
1,025 reviews8 followers
September 5, 2020
That cliffhanger at the end of book two left me desperate to read book three. But then of course Erin O’Kane went on to give me a near heart attack toward the end of book three with a certain character too. The characters and the world Erin has created are just perfect and so well written, you can almost imagine you are right there in every scene.

Talking of scenes this book definitely turns up the heat a little with some fantastic scenes between Clarissa and her men. The elf Queen is just nasty and honestly so well written that I can’t help but hate her guts. I’m definitely intrigued to see where Erin takes the character in the next book, and if I’m truthful, I’m kinda hoping that someone, preferably Clarissa kicks her behind.

Bring on book four is all I’m saying!
135 reviews4 followers
September 5, 2020
Yes! I am so ready to go to war alongside this cast. The heat is definitely picking up in book three, and all of her mates ate how aware of he rkuktiple bonds.

So many new pieces of informational and her past are revealed. Clarissa proves just how much inner strength she has with the grace she carries through all the new information.

There are a few pieces that ate still floating on the edge unanswered, but hoping to tie those up in the next book.

What is the obsession the Queen's brother has for clarissa. How did the darkness start, and who is truly in control?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Norma's Nook.
424 reviews13 followers
May 19, 2021
I am loving this series! The slow burn finally starts to extinguish in book 3, and I am here for it! As Clarissa finally starts getting answers about who and what she is, the world building really came into play and was breathtaking. Each individual part of this world is so different, well described, and I really feel like I can see it when I'm reading. We get to learn more about Vae and Tor, and the mate bond is fascinating in how it differs between all the different species of humanoids. I'm diving straight into book 4. Loving it!
Profile Image for Dominique.
1,065 reviews7 followers
August 26, 2020
This series just continues to grab my attention and keep me hooked. All the little details are starting to come together as we get more answers, and of course a few more questions. Bonds are starting to click into place and Clarissa's small group of trusted people is slowly starting to grow. Clarissa is so much more than she has ever believed. The finale is going to be epic and I can't wait to see what happens!
Profile Image for Joy Whiteside.
4,864 reviews112 followers
September 4, 2020
This is an excellent read that took me away from my everyday reality to a different place where I could forget my everyday stresses. It moved along at a perfect pace which was neither too fast nor too slow. The characters seem so real that you feel as though you know them and no matter what you want to be there for them. the story will grab you and not let you go, no matter what you need to do. this is a must read and needs to be on your TBR list, no doubt about it.
Profile Image for Yashira.
271 reviews33 followers
September 4, 2020
Loved loved book 3! It's starts off at that cliffy we got in book 1, yeah Erin you know which one lol! Let's move on, I love how we get to know more about the character's in this one and all the twist and turns just have you wanting to read more, and those twins yummy!! I honestly devoured this book in one sitting cause this story and her character's just draw you in! I highly recommend this series!
Profile Image for Kassandra Gauthier.
7 reviews1 follower
September 17, 2020
The third book of Clarissa's adventure and as I said, the Twists keep coming. I loved every second of this book, with the relationships that Erin developed firming up and finalizing while also leaving more room for growth. Erin left me in suspense with some twists I did not see coming until I was right on top of them. Can't wait for the next book in the series to see how the finale with the two different sides resolve and she finds the answer to her destiny.
Profile Image for Yasmin.
678 reviews2 followers
Read
October 10, 2020
If the story had more romance it would of been an amazing story. The romance was just tiny little teases here and there but was quickly extinguished like it never happened.

It got tiring how she kept pushing the guys away but I guess it made it more realistic by making her struggle.

The protagonist victim mentality and calling herself a nobody was another thing that got annoying but at the end maybe she has become stronger.
Profile Image for Hina.
34 reviews3 followers
August 11, 2021
I'm just disappointed mainly, I got hooked on these books for the plot, and it's just been reduced to 95% reverse harem rubbish, and the main character has actually devolved from where she was in the first two books. I couldn't even finish this one it got more and more dire.
It's just simpering and High school grade immaturity. I want to know the plot, the world building is fabulous but the fluff that dominates makes it unreadable.
Profile Image for Crystal’s Pets.
104 reviews2 followers
January 15, 2022
Good

I did not care for this one as much as the other books in the series. But it was good and I will read the next one in the series. To me it just went in circles a lot. We got some answers but a lot more questions. So it was a little frustrating. And I do not care for the jealousy and the men that are supposed to be in the RH. Seems a little overdone. But other then that the book was great
592 reviews1 follower
September 4, 2020
This series just sneaks in and takes over your brain. You don’t even realize it’s happening, you’re just sucked in and trapped without being aware. The beginning the characters seemed a little disconnected but that soon corrected itself. Our girl is getting more powerful and sure of herself and the relationships are stronger too. I just love this series.
20 reviews
September 5, 2020
This series truly captures your attention from the minute you pick it up! The character development and plot are soo good. You learn a lot more about Clarissas past in this book too. I absolutely love all Clarissa’s men too. I may love Eldrin far too much and really hope he ends up as one of Clarissa’s men too!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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