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READER DISCRETION IS ADVISED:
This is a twisted ride. Dark psychological themes, dubious situations, and intense sexual circumstances layer this story and may be triggering or offensive to some.
CAIN
Phoenix is sinfully beautiful, but she stole from me.
And, she didn’t know that I was a monster.
Now she’s mine. Mine to break. Mine to cut. Mine to bleed.
PHOENIX
Cain is my torturer. A gorgeous psychopath. Cold-hearted. Brutal.
And deadly mysterious.
But, I’m determined to stand strong. To survive. To somehow not be destroyed.
Yet, he keeps cutting.
He keeps digging, until buried, forgotten emotions rise to the surface.
He keeps bleeding me, until my heart and soul collide to endless ruin, and I beg,
I plead for the pain.
This is a twisted ride. Dark psychological themes, dubious situations, and intense sexual circumstances layer this story and may be triggering or offensive to some.
CAIN
Phoenix is sinfully beautiful, but she stole from me.
And, she didn’t know that I was a monster.
Now she’s mine. Mine to break. Mine to cut. Mine to bleed.
PHOENIX
Cain is my torturer. A gorgeous psychopath. Cold-hearted. Brutal.
And deadly mysterious.
But, I’m determined to stand strong. To survive. To somehow not be destroyed.
Yet, he keeps cutting.
He keeps digging, until buried, forgotten emotions rise to the surface.
He keeps bleeding me, until my heart and soul collide to endless ruin, and I beg,
I plead for the pain.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 2, 2022
303 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
July 9, 2022
I’m probably going to re-rate this after bookclub discussion in 2 weeksz
I don’t think this book was that dark. I really liked Phoenix because she is a person trying to make a dollar out of 15cents. She has been broke, homeless, abused etc and she is trying to take herself out of this “lack”. She plans ver my carefully and executes her plan but it brings her into Cain’a orbit and that isn’t a good place to be right now as that dude is messed up.
But then when the background story emerges, it becomes clear that they are good people inside but predators and life circumstances forced them to the fringes of society’s morals.
This book was just the tip of the iceberg so I’m going to read book 2 to see if healing begins to occur and if the wronged receive justice for their pain and suffering.
*I will see what my fellow readers help elucidate about this story when Cocktails and Conversations meet next!
I don’t think this book was that dark. I really liked Phoenix because she is a person trying to make a dollar out of 15cents. She has been broke, homeless, abused etc and she is trying to take herself out of this “lack”. She plans ver my carefully and executes her plan but it brings her into Cain’a orbit and that isn’t a good place to be right now as that dude is messed up.
But then when the background story emerges, it becomes clear that they are good people inside but predators and life circumstances forced them to the fringes of society’s morals.
This book was just the tip of the iceberg so I’m going to read book 2 to see if healing begins to occur and if the wronged receive justice for their pain and suffering.
*I will see what my fellow readers help elucidate about this story when Cocktails and Conversations meet next!
February 4, 2022
I’m not ok…
cause I enjoyed this way to *beeping* much! I don’t have a blood or knife kink but this was…how can you be a psycho and a cinnamon role?!? Black woman writing dark and twisted ish is my new love language. Now when you take away the kink and the romance there was some amazing dialogue on religion, life, trauma responses, faith, what is evil vs what is criminal, and the arts.
Hence why I loved this so much. It’s easy to only see it for the shock value of it but this book was so much more than just the crazy stuff. I loved and enjoyed the heck out of the crazy stuff but this was really great writing as well.
cause I enjoyed this way to *beeping* much! I don’t have a blood or knife kink but this was…how can you be a psycho and a cinnamon role?!? Black woman writing dark and twisted ish is my new love language. Now when you take away the kink and the romance there was some amazing dialogue on religion, life, trauma responses, faith, what is evil vs what is criminal, and the arts.
Hence why I loved this so much. It’s easy to only see it for the shock value of it but this book was so much more than just the crazy stuff. I loved and enjoyed the heck out of the crazy stuff but this was really great writing as well.
January 28, 2022
****Trigger Warning**** some scenes may be hard to digest for some readers. Now, with that out the way. OMG!!!!!! This is NOT the classic enemies to lovers psychological thriller. Taylor Rose worked her literary
magic with this one. Cain is one of the most complex characters I've read in a really long time. Phoenix is desperately trying to leave up to her name.... These multifaceted characters have you scratching your head and rooting for them at the same dang time. Took me 3 days to read and that's because I made myself put it down to make it last. You will not regret reading this book!!! Get it, get it get it!!!! This book has Ruined me and I can't wait to Hunt for more!!!
magic with this one. Cain is one of the most complex characters I've read in a really long time. Phoenix is desperately trying to leave up to her name.... These multifaceted characters have you scratching your head and rooting for them at the same dang time. Took me 3 days to read and that's because I made myself put it down to make it last. You will not regret reading this book!!! Get it, get it get it!!!! This book has Ruined me and I can't wait to Hunt for more!!!
April 13, 2025
I always have a problem with stories like this because I don’t feel that the FMC is ever enraged enough. She just always happens to be so, so into whatever niche kink the MMC is into. For me, that takes away the intrigue and drama from a dark, violent romance like this....if she's joyfully having orgasms and turning into a purring kitten in the MMC's arms, well, then it's not really giving the push and pull that this kind of romance should give.
Another disappointment, is the spice in this was terrible. The scenes were just not hot or sexy....not even because of the blood play. They just didn't titillate. They were boring.
The story itself was interesting though.
Another disappointment, is the spice in this was terrible. The scenes were just not hot or sexy....not even because of the blood play. They just didn't titillate. They were boring.
The story itself was interesting though.
February 2, 2022
Wow is the only word that I can say that describes how this story has me feeling!! This story really threw me, but in a good way. I don't exactly know how to feel about Cain on the one hand he's extremely good looking and loyal to his brothers, but on the other hand his psychological make up had me putting my Kindle down because on certain parts in the story I couldn't believe what I was reading.
Phoenix although drawn to Cain was also in self preservation mode throughout the story. She could relate to Cain and she was definitely attracted to him, but also wanted to protect herself. I felt like she found herself questioning herself and wandering why she was falling for Cain.
This story definitely had me on the edge of my seat from the beginning of the story until the final word on the final page. Although this isn't something I would normally read, I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series!!
Phoenix although drawn to Cain was also in self preservation mode throughout the story. She could relate to Cain and she was definitely attracted to him, but also wanted to protect herself. I felt like she found herself questioning herself and wandering why she was falling for Cain.
This story definitely had me on the edge of my seat from the beginning of the story until the final word on the final page. Although this isn't something I would normally read, I'm really looking forward to the next book in the series!!
January 29, 2022
I received an advance copy of the book to review.
Loved how the story hooked me in and grabbed my attention from start to finish. It’s a dark romance that will take you on a twisted ride of emotions seesawing between the dark side tinkering with your senses in wickedness, and the light side that warms you in goodness.
Cain has a tortured soul that feeds a sinful obsession that he’s realizing is getting stronger. The enjoyment he sees of the bodies shuddering with pain fuels him, and the sticky warm wetness and intoxicating smell excites him. When Phoenix stumbles into his life the desire is unlike any other. Taking care of his family is always at the forefront of everything he does, but as Phoenix seeps into his psyche he eases up on his usually tight control and while imagining a possible new reality ends up losing her and more.
Phoenix has a quiet strength that evolved from childhood trauma. She’s sexy with a sharp mind and quick on her feet, and it’s kept her alive. The unexpected encounter with Cain provokes trouble when she see’s the maniacal grin behind his handsome face. Her body feels everything Cain is demanding, it’s overwhelming yet intoxicating, she gives into the experience questioning why it feels wrong and right at the same time. Cain is changing her and it’s too much to handle, she just want’s to get back to her usual life.
I love Cain and Phoenix. I felt their mutual desires were evoked by an intense need to let go and be loved for who they are at their core with no restraints. Because of the life they lived the feeling is foreign and the situation is not ideal, however the space they create allows for expression and letting go which helps to bring on some healing.
This is an awesome debut into dark romance for Taylor Rose. It’s dark with triggers but not so much to put people off and the story is so gripping. I personally wouldn’t mind a lot more darkness but that’s just my opinion🤣. The book does end in a cliff hanger and I can’t wait to read the next one to see what happens with Cain and Phoenix along with other characters in the book like the best friend Quinn and the brothers Griff and West.
Loved how the story hooked me in and grabbed my attention from start to finish. It’s a dark romance that will take you on a twisted ride of emotions seesawing between the dark side tinkering with your senses in wickedness, and the light side that warms you in goodness.
Cain has a tortured soul that feeds a sinful obsession that he’s realizing is getting stronger. The enjoyment he sees of the bodies shuddering with pain fuels him, and the sticky warm wetness and intoxicating smell excites him. When Phoenix stumbles into his life the desire is unlike any other. Taking care of his family is always at the forefront of everything he does, but as Phoenix seeps into his psyche he eases up on his usually tight control and while imagining a possible new reality ends up losing her and more.
Phoenix has a quiet strength that evolved from childhood trauma. She’s sexy with a sharp mind and quick on her feet, and it’s kept her alive. The unexpected encounter with Cain provokes trouble when she see’s the maniacal grin behind his handsome face. Her body feels everything Cain is demanding, it’s overwhelming yet intoxicating, she gives into the experience questioning why it feels wrong and right at the same time. Cain is changing her and it’s too much to handle, she just want’s to get back to her usual life.
I love Cain and Phoenix. I felt their mutual desires were evoked by an intense need to let go and be loved for who they are at their core with no restraints. Because of the life they lived the feeling is foreign and the situation is not ideal, however the space they create allows for expression and letting go which helps to bring on some healing.
This is an awesome debut into dark romance for Taylor Rose. It’s dark with triggers but not so much to put people off and the story is so gripping. I personally wouldn’t mind a lot more darkness but that’s just my opinion🤣. The book does end in a cliff hanger and I can’t wait to read the next one to see what happens with Cain and Phoenix along with other characters in the book like the best friend Quinn and the brothers Griff and West.
January 30, 2022
Trigger warnings: please be aware there are scenes that might be uncomfortable for some readers!!!!!!
This is an advance copy and I am giving my honest review.
This is a dark romance about two people who are trying to survive in this world by any means necessary. First, there is Cain who is the eldest of 10 siblings; himself and two of his brothers would go on robbery spree to support their youngest siblings. Next, we have Phoenix who grew up on the street; she also did what was necessary to support herself. These two crossed paths at a strip club one night and the rest is history.
OMG!!! Love this book!!!! I had some many mix emotions while reading this to include WTH!!!! Cain and Phoenix’s characters were so well written that I could actually feel all of the emotions that they were going through!! I have to admit in the beginning Cain scared me because of the thoughts that he had going on in his head, but after a while I completed understood what brought him to that point. When a person has experience such horror and trauma at such a young age, it can do damage to your mind. I give this book five stars and I look forward to reading the next book in this series by Taylor Rose aka Kenya Wright; she definitely put her blood, sweat, and tears into this book and it paid off!!!!!!
This is an advance copy and I am giving my honest review.
This is a dark romance about two people who are trying to survive in this world by any means necessary. First, there is Cain who is the eldest of 10 siblings; himself and two of his brothers would go on robbery spree to support their youngest siblings. Next, we have Phoenix who grew up on the street; she also did what was necessary to support herself. These two crossed paths at a strip club one night and the rest is history.
OMG!!! Love this book!!!! I had some many mix emotions while reading this to include WTH!!!! Cain and Phoenix’s characters were so well written that I could actually feel all of the emotions that they were going through!! I have to admit in the beginning Cain scared me because of the thoughts that he had going on in his head, but after a while I completed understood what brought him to that point. When a person has experience such horror and trauma at such a young age, it can do damage to your mind. I give this book five stars and I look forward to reading the next book in this series by Taylor Rose aka Kenya Wright; she definitely put her blood, sweat, and tears into this book and it paid off!!!!!!
February 4, 2022
I almost DNF this because it was disturbing and dark. So the ending was surprising. It was a page turner and could have rated higher except for the dark, disturbing knife and bloodplay content.
Cain and his brothers hit strip clubs to rob them so that they can take care of their younger siblings. Phoenix has been watching the brothers pull a couple of jobs at the strip clubs she works for and decides she's going to take their stolen money.
The brothers track Phoenix and demand their money back but she refuses to give away her friend's identity (quin is laundering the money). So the brothers kidnap Phoenix and take her to the chapel where they live.
Cain proceeds to graphically torture Phoenix in his soul tomb room. We learn that blood play excites him in a very disturbing description of his proclivities.
Cain and Phoenix connect over their damaged pasts. Cain tells her the priest he worked for was a pedophile who hurt his younger siblings and that's what put him over the edge. Phoenix shares her memories, which are blocked, of her stepfather possibly SA her. They feel a connection and have a moment and they hook up in the rain and mud. Phoenix runs away while Cain is basking in the afterglow and feeling possessive of her.
A few days later, Cain receives a box of money from Phoenix and decides to find her. Cliffhanger.
Cain and his brothers hit strip clubs to rob them so that they can take care of their younger siblings. Phoenix has been watching the brothers pull a couple of jobs at the strip clubs she works for and decides she's going to take their stolen money.
The brothers track Phoenix and demand their money back but she refuses to give away her friend's identity (quin is laundering the money). So the brothers kidnap Phoenix and take her to the chapel where they live.
Cain proceeds to graphically torture Phoenix in his soul tomb room. We learn that blood play excites him in a very disturbing description of his proclivities.
Cain and Phoenix connect over their damaged pasts. Cain tells her the priest he worked for was a pedophile who hurt his younger siblings and that's what put him over the edge. Phoenix shares her memories, which are blocked, of her stepfather possibly SA her. They feel a connection and have a moment and they hook up in the rain and mud. Phoenix runs away while Cain is basking in the afterglow and feeling possessive of her.
A few days later, Cain receives a box of money from Phoenix and decides to find her. Cliffhanger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2022
TW: This is a dark romance which is respectfully and tastefully written. However, some scenes or topics maybe uncomfortable for some readers please consider that prior to reading.
This is an ARC review. I received a copy in advance for review.
This is a wild ride of emotions. The action jumps off from the first chapter and sets in motion a series of unusual events. Our MC is a survivor and our LI is struggling with his past and present. Through their meeting and coming together deep discoveries and difficult choices are made.
The pacing is perfect. The connection between MC and LI unfolds in the most unexpected ways. There is action, tension, steamy and messy sex! Balanced with tender, quiet moments. We're also treated to a little music history which was such a romantic touch - Taylor Rose put so much care into the details and did a great job. I couldn't stop until I reached the end. FYI it does end on a slight cliffhanger. But it doesn't matter! You will want more anyway! Get this book and get ready for a thrilling romance. A must for all you Kenya fans.
This is an ARC review. I received a copy in advance for review.
This is a wild ride of emotions. The action jumps off from the first chapter and sets in motion a series of unusual events. Our MC is a survivor and our LI is struggling with his past and present. Through their meeting and coming together deep discoveries and difficult choices are made.
The pacing is perfect. The connection between MC and LI unfolds in the most unexpected ways. There is action, tension, steamy and messy sex! Balanced with tender, quiet moments. We're also treated to a little music history which was such a romantic touch - Taylor Rose put so much care into the details and did a great job. I couldn't stop until I reached the end. FYI it does end on a slight cliffhanger. But it doesn't matter! You will want more anyway! Get this book and get ready for a thrilling romance. A must for all you Kenya fans.
November 28, 2022
4 twisted stars ✨
I honestly am shocked at myself. Just when you think you know someone…um, myself 😂I go and surprise myself. This is why I am very open minded with my reads. At least try something outside your comfort zone before you write it off as “I don’t like that kinda book.”
This book was something else! It’s dark and twisted. It’s psychological themes, torture & knife play or not..dubious situations. I am unwell. Why do I like the anti heroes more times than I don’t in stories. There’s usually a reason why they’re messed up and I end up feeling for them. Send help!!
I love that a Black author wrote this which is something I don’t see done enough. Narration was dual and perfect. I’m hooked and can’t wait to dive into Hunt next!
I honestly am shocked at myself. Just when you think you know someone…um, myself 😂I go and surprise myself. This is why I am very open minded with my reads. At least try something outside your comfort zone before you write it off as “I don’t like that kinda book.”
This book was something else! It’s dark and twisted. It’s psychological themes, torture & knife play or not..dubious situations. I am unwell. Why do I like the anti heroes more times than I don’t in stories. There’s usually a reason why they’re messed up and I end up feeling for them. Send help!!
I love that a Black author wrote this which is something I don’t see done enough. Narration was dual and perfect. I’m hooked and can’t wait to dive into Hunt next!
September 4, 2022
Wow!
This was a great read some people may find this book dark but it wasn't that dark to me but this is only my opinion. I fell in love with all the characters and hope they get a book as well. I love Cain and Phoenix characters and can't wait to find out what happens to their relationship. I would recommend
This was a great read some people may find this book dark but it wasn't that dark to me but this is only my opinion. I fell in love with all the characters and hope they get a book as well. I love Cain and Phoenix characters and can't wait to find out what happens to their relationship. I would recommend
July 28, 2025
Truly not the for the faint of heart. This is not one of those 'cute' dark romances, you know, where the Alpha male is just equal parts bully, emotionally repressed manchild, monster to everyone else but the love interest - but never gets violent with the love interest.
Nope.
The 'bloodied' part of the title is accurate. I do not have the stomach for reading about blood-play or actual pain kinkery, and I couldn't wrap my head around categorizing this type of relationship as 'romance.' I wanted the heroine to be tougher but after 2 days of captivity, she liked it? After 2 days of capitivity, the heroine (who suffered a very traumatic childhood) is wondering if she herself actually enjoys blood/knife play? Something was missing. Maybe the timeline of the romance was too short for me to believe this was an actual relationship, since this was a pretty quick read. Then again, I think I'm just too squeamish.
I love Kenya Wright but this just wasn't my cup of tea and I'll own that! Happy reading to those who like this subgenre!
Nope.
The 'bloodied' part of the title is accurate. I do not have the stomach for reading about blood-play or actual pain kinkery, and I couldn't wrap my head around categorizing this type of relationship as 'romance.' I wanted the heroine to be tougher but after 2 days of captivity, she liked it? After 2 days of capitivity, the heroine (who suffered a very traumatic childhood) is wondering if she herself actually enjoys blood/knife play? Something was missing. Maybe the timeline of the romance was too short for me to believe this was an actual relationship, since this was a pretty quick read. Then again, I think I'm just too squeamish.
I love Kenya Wright but this just wasn't my cup of tea and I'll own that! Happy reading to those who like this subgenre!
February 7, 2022
I received RUIN as an ARC reader in exchange to leave an honest review.
Let me tell you this book captured me from the very beginning. As soon as I read the first few sentences I was hooked.
It starts off in a club where Phoenix meets Cain and his brothers. A situation occurs and from there the story really takes off. Cain is so damaged and broken inside from things that happened to him and his family in the past. He is truly a crazed troubled young man that loves listening to Opera and doesn’t mind sharing his wealth of knowledge about it and Mozart's music with Phoenix while holding her hostage. Cain needs info from her that she refuses to give him even if it results in him killing her. Cain takes her to his special room where he always takes his past victims to torture and kill them. While in there, Cain has his fun with Phoenix introducing her to his knives in various ways.
I loved Phoenix from the beginning. From the moment you meet her, you can't help but love her fire and sassy mouth. She is extremely loyal to her best friend, Quinn(who I loved). Phoenix is a hustler who is just trying to do what she has to do to survive and make it out of her current situation. When she is kidnapped by Cain and his brothers all her energy is focused on escaping, and she hopes with her sanity.
This story is about 2 complex people that end up falling in love( If you can call it that) unintentially and making each other come to terms with their painful pasts. For her first dark romance, Ms Rose did an awesome job.
Let me tell you this book captured me from the very beginning. As soon as I read the first few sentences I was hooked.
It starts off in a club where Phoenix meets Cain and his brothers. A situation occurs and from there the story really takes off. Cain is so damaged and broken inside from things that happened to him and his family in the past. He is truly a crazed troubled young man that loves listening to Opera and doesn’t mind sharing his wealth of knowledge about it and Mozart's music with Phoenix while holding her hostage. Cain needs info from her that she refuses to give him even if it results in him killing her. Cain takes her to his special room where he always takes his past victims to torture and kill them. While in there, Cain has his fun with Phoenix introducing her to his knives in various ways.
I loved Phoenix from the beginning. From the moment you meet her, you can't help but love her fire and sassy mouth. She is extremely loyal to her best friend, Quinn(who I loved). Phoenix is a hustler who is just trying to do what she has to do to survive and make it out of her current situation. When she is kidnapped by Cain and his brothers all her energy is focused on escaping, and she hopes with her sanity.
This story is about 2 complex people that end up falling in love( If you can call it that) unintentially and making each other come to terms with their painful pasts. For her first dark romance, Ms Rose did an awesome job.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2023
I wasn't sure what to expect going into this. Taylor Rose is a new author to me, so I went in blind. Let me start by saying... Please check your trigger warnings!
Phoenix and Cain were something else.
This book was dark and twisted in all the best ways. I love a good dark romance and this author delivered a well-written, twisted, dark, unpredictable, unputdownable dark romance that I devoured in one sitting!
4.5 Stars!
Phoenix and Cain were something else.
This book was dark and twisted in all the best ways. I love a good dark romance and this author delivered a well-written, twisted, dark, unpredictable, unputdownable dark romance that I devoured in one sitting!
4.5 Stars!
January 28, 2022
Ruin took me on a wild crazy ride!! This book was definitely entertaining, page turner with lovable characters. I love Phoenix and Cain. Griff had me laughing at the end. I'm most definitely looking forward to reading HUNT!! I loved the book and recommend that you read it. I received an ARC for my honest opinion.
January 29, 2022
I wasn’t ready!!! This book was AMAZING! It beautifully walks the line between psychological thriller and romance. The way she tells this story makes it like watching a movie play across your mind. I cannot wait for the next story. If you haven’t read it, what are you waiting for?? Go now!
December 15, 2022
This was all kinds of messed up, but for some reason, I couldn't put it down.
I usually don't read dark M/F books but this one pulled me in.
Cain is a psycho but we get to learn how he became that way. Phoenix is in constant survival mode, she's not sure what to make of Cain.
Cliffhanger ending
I usually don't read dark M/F books but this one pulled me in.
Cain is a psycho but we get to learn how he became that way. Phoenix is in constant survival mode, she's not sure what to make of Cain.
Cliffhanger ending
January 28, 2022
I received a copy of RUIN in advance. This is an ARC Review.
Ruin pulled me in from the very beginning and I knew I was in for a wild ride! This author has a way of crafting a story that is uniquely her own and always has me glued to the pages. This story is dark, dirty, and thought-provoking, and digs deep into the two main characters and their inner demons. As I began to get to know Cain and Phoenix and learn more about their past struggles, I found my heart breaking with their stories. Cain is mesmerizing, complex, and emotionally damaged; Phoenix is strong, loyal, and yearning for a better life. Cain leads Phoenix into his darkness and two deeply damaged people began to help each other heal.
Ruin is a great read. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, characters, and romance. Cain and Phoenix are fantastic together and I’m looking forward to the continuation of their story!
Ruin pulled me in from the very beginning and I knew I was in for a wild ride! This author has a way of crafting a story that is uniquely her own and always has me glued to the pages. This story is dark, dirty, and thought-provoking, and digs deep into the two main characters and their inner demons. As I began to get to know Cain and Phoenix and learn more about their past struggles, I found my heart breaking with their stories. Cain is mesmerizing, complex, and emotionally damaged; Phoenix is strong, loyal, and yearning for a better life. Cain leads Phoenix into his darkness and two deeply damaged people began to help each other heal.
Ruin is a great read. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot, characters, and romance. Cain and Phoenix are fantastic together and I’m looking forward to the continuation of their story!
January 30, 2022
*Trigger warnings : Blood play, kidnap
My God, Taylor Rose can write! I started Ruin at 2am this morning, had a few hours sleep, woke up and have just finished it (it's just after 10am now in the Uk). I was able to visualise this as I was reading so well. I'm (despite being a lifelong horror fan) not great with blood and thought that I'd be sickened by some of the blood play but I totally got it and the connection and release that was there for Cain and Phoenix. This even had me googling operas and playing them in the background while reading to further immerse myself in the story. An absolute tour de force. I can not wait to read the next book. Flipping fantastic!!
I got an ARC in return for an honest review.
My God, Taylor Rose can write! I started Ruin at 2am this morning, had a few hours sleep, woke up and have just finished it (it's just after 10am now in the Uk). I was able to visualise this as I was reading so well. I'm (despite being a lifelong horror fan) not great with blood and thought that I'd be sickened by some of the blood play but I totally got it and the connection and release that was there for Cain and Phoenix. This even had me googling operas and playing them in the background while reading to further immerse myself in the story. An absolute tour de force. I can not wait to read the next book. Flipping fantastic!!
I got an ARC in return for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2022
This book, this book. I don't even know where to begin. I didn't know what to expect. My emotions were all over the place. I think I even held my breath a couple of times. Taylor Rose did her thing for her first dark romance. There are definitely some triggers so readers beware.
I soooo wanted more; it does end on a cliffhanger, and I'm mad about that bc I wanted to know what will happen next between Phoenix and Quinn.
Dark romance 6/10
If you can't handle blood, this ain't for you but if you love a good dark alpha male with a side of crazy, please don't hesitate to read. I can't wait to read more about Phoenix and Quinn.
I recieved an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
I soooo wanted more; it does end on a cliffhanger, and I'm mad about that bc I wanted to know what will happen next between Phoenix and Quinn.
Dark romance 6/10
If you can't handle blood, this ain't for you but if you love a good dark alpha male with a side of crazy, please don't hesitate to read. I can't wait to read more about Phoenix and Quinn.
I recieved an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
January 30, 2022
RUIN is thrilling!! Taylor Rose creates an immediate attraction to the characters, setting and story. Right away I love Phoenix. She's smart, loyal and very resilient. Cain is fierce and a little devious yet sparks fly the night Cain and Phoenix lock eyes in the dark.Two tortured souls collide in the night leading to a sometimes wicked, bloody, sensual and emotionally charged rollercoaster ride. Intimacy with these two is messy. Just as they forge an understanding, seek meaning and healing from their past trauma there's a twist. Sooo good!! I can't wait for more!!
ARC received for my honest review.
ARC received for my honest review.
January 29, 2022
This is an ARC review…I was given a early copy to read and review and happy to announce this book will not disappoint in any way.
Cain and Phoenix are meant for each other and I can’t wait to what happens with them and the others. Two broken souls find something special. I have read dark romance and this was not bad, I sometimes cringed at some parts but I could not put this book down, like I had to finish it! Phoenix best friend Quin is hilarious for sure everyone should have a friend like that!
Now Mrs. Rose I am ready for the next book like yesterday 🤣
Cain and Phoenix are meant for each other and I can’t wait to what happens with them and the others. Two broken souls find something special. I have read dark romance and this was not bad, I sometimes cringed at some parts but I could not put this book down, like I had to finish it! Phoenix best friend Quin is hilarious for sure everyone should have a friend like that!
Now Mrs. Rose I am ready for the next book like yesterday 🤣
February 2, 2022
Great read, but not for the light of heart. The story is very well written. The author has a way with her words so not only can you imagine the story; but you can also invoke the characters emotions. I love an intellectual novel but I also love drama and excitement. This book balances the duality between urban and intellectual very well. Phoenix the main character loved her. I would like a sequel asap.
February 3, 2022
Hey Cain can come get it. Loved this dark heart thumping, page turning thriller. Cain is a alpha male but met his match in Phoenix because she’s a alpha female. Cain has a sick fascination with blood and cutting. Phoenix is a survivor. Two broken lost souls who come together and dream of a different life. This book makes me appreciate what i have but yearn for more. It’s told in different points of view, no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a hea. I highly recommend this book.
July 17, 2022
(Sigh) This is another one of those, “why the f@ck am I reading this,” moments. The story was nothing like I expected. A crazed psychopathic robber was robbed by a resourceful stripper. He and his brothers tracked her down to torture and kill her for the sin of stealing from thieves. But it didn’t go as planned. There was no love, passion, or romance but there was questionable consent sex. And the story ended in a to be continued.
February 2, 2022
Darkness resides in us all
Who's to say how you would react if you world imploded in the worst possible way. Would you turn the other cheek? Put on a brave face and then drown your sorrows in the bottom of a bottle every night? Or would you do whatever it took to numb the pain? To seek retribution. To balance the scale.
This is a very dark story and makes you think about how you would handle the obstacles the H & h went through. Two broken individuals meet and magic happens amid threats, knives and a sip here and there. Overall brava!!
Cain is very much a tortured hero, and I use the term loosely. His personal quest to right wrongs is quite unorthodox and extremely sadistic. He's a man that enjoys his work and does it with a twisted smile. Regardless of his fascination with the red stuff, his ultimate goal is to protect his family. He channels his "crazy" by focusing on caring for his younger siblings. A normal job won't suffice. So he turns to less legal means; like relieving men that frequent strip clubs of their hard-earned cash. A robbery here, a robbery there never hurt anyone. Until he meets her......Nix
Nix comes on the scene as a boss b*the. She's an entertainer that stumbled upon Cain and his crew and decided they were "easy pickings". She hijacks their heist and disappears with the ill-gotten spoils. She realizes the error oh her ways when she wakes up in her seedy hotel room surrounded by her "marks". They are none to happy to find that the loot bag is a little light. They relocate(kidnap) her until she gives up her accomplice.
Cain and Nix share an atypical connection. From the start he doesn't know if he wants to kill her or shag her. He's never experienced this kind of indecisiveness before. Blood and Nix are a dangerous combination. One he can't help but indulge in.
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
My poem inspired by Ruin:
As I am sucked into the vast darkness, I can't help but feel a sense of inevitability.
The life I've lived has finally caught up to me. The constant fight to survive, to thrive in a world that relishes in watching me fail over and over in a vicious cycle that I struggle to escape by any means necessary, even the end of my existence. I welcome the absence of pain, of hopelessness, the weight of the world crushing my bones and my very soul.
I am adrift floating above all the chaos when a haunting melody that spoke of hidden tears hold me spellbound. Eyes of unearthly blue pull me in. So blue and yet so clouded with torment.
My desire to run wars with my desire to stay.
But to stay I must confront the darkness that resides within. With every knick and jab my demons are released in a river of crimson.
I find a peace I have never known. I am becoming someone I don't recognize. Someone that craves the pain only he can give me.
Who's to say how you would react if you world imploded in the worst possible way. Would you turn the other cheek? Put on a brave face and then drown your sorrows in the bottom of a bottle every night? Or would you do whatever it took to numb the pain? To seek retribution. To balance the scale.
This is a very dark story and makes you think about how you would handle the obstacles the H & h went through. Two broken individuals meet and magic happens amid threats, knives and a sip here and there. Overall brava!!
Cain is very much a tortured hero, and I use the term loosely. His personal quest to right wrongs is quite unorthodox and extremely sadistic. He's a man that enjoys his work and does it with a twisted smile. Regardless of his fascination with the red stuff, his ultimate goal is to protect his family. He channels his "crazy" by focusing on caring for his younger siblings. A normal job won't suffice. So he turns to less legal means; like relieving men that frequent strip clubs of their hard-earned cash. A robbery here, a robbery there never hurt anyone. Until he meets her......Nix
Nix comes on the scene as a boss b*the. She's an entertainer that stumbled upon Cain and his crew and decided they were "easy pickings". She hijacks their heist and disappears with the ill-gotten spoils. She realizes the error oh her ways when she wakes up in her seedy hotel room surrounded by her "marks". They are none to happy to find that the loot bag is a little light. They relocate(kidnap) her until she gives up her accomplice.
Cain and Nix share an atypical connection. From the start he doesn't know if he wants to kill her or shag her. He's never experienced this kind of indecisiveness before. Blood and Nix are a dangerous combination. One he can't help but indulge in.
I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
My poem inspired by Ruin:
As I am sucked into the vast darkness, I can't help but feel a sense of inevitability.
The life I've lived has finally caught up to me. The constant fight to survive, to thrive in a world that relishes in watching me fail over and over in a vicious cycle that I struggle to escape by any means necessary, even the end of my existence. I welcome the absence of pain, of hopelessness, the weight of the world crushing my bones and my very soul.
I am adrift floating above all the chaos when a haunting melody that spoke of hidden tears hold me spellbound. Eyes of unearthly blue pull me in. So blue and yet so clouded with torment.
My desire to run wars with my desire to stay.
But to stay I must confront the darkness that resides within. With every knick and jab my demons are released in a river of crimson.
I find a peace I have never known. I am becoming someone I don't recognize. Someone that craves the pain only he can give me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 28, 2022
"The advent of a dark love story, Taylor Rose's Ruin is an intermingling of eroticism and raw, unconventional passion."
TW: Triggers warning
Ruin had me transfixed from beginning to end. The first chapter set the tone, and it remained exciting until the last word. The main character is dark and gifted, a broken soul fighting to hold on to his humanity against the darkness that originates from his need to be a savior.
His love interest is just as broken and gifted but a survivor who is tired of just surviving. Since she is a woman of action, she inserts herself into his pathway, believing it is her chance to live instead of surviving. This one decision put them both on a path of passion and healing in an unconventional style!
TW: Triggers warning
Ruin had me transfixed from beginning to end. The first chapter set the tone, and it remained exciting until the last word. The main character is dark and gifted, a broken soul fighting to hold on to his humanity against the darkness that originates from his need to be a savior.
His love interest is just as broken and gifted but a survivor who is tired of just surviving. Since she is a woman of action, she inserts herself into his pathway, believing it is her chance to live instead of surviving. This one decision put them both on a path of passion and healing in an unconventional style!
January 28, 2022
Wow! This book was definitely a page turner, you felt the pain and love! Cain is a dark, tortured, smart, caring and loveable man. Phoenix is a survivor, strong and resourceful. What starts out as a thief outsmarting 3 brothers, leads to Phoenix experiencing her worst nightmares! Cain and Phoenix dig deep into their past. Cain falls in love and begins to heal, Phoenix scratches the surface of her childhood tragedy, but goes back to her old ways of running! She has feelings for Cain but is afraid to face them. She made good on her promise to Cain! Cain won’t let her be gone for long the Hunt is on! Phoenix will be captured, and be changed forever! Can’t wait to read the next book!
February 1, 2022
I received this book as an ARC for review. *****Trigger Warning****
Ruin is a page-turning psychological thrill! Phoenix and Cain are complicated characters and Taylor Rose wrote them well. Phoenix and Cain are both strong troubled characters, and when they come together- whew! There are moments which may be triggering. On the other side of those moments are amazing characters and thrills.
This book drew me in from the beginning and kept me on an emotional rollercoaster! I felt every emotion right along with Phoenix and Cain. Taylor Rose wrote this so well I can still visualize each character and the locations. This is not my typical read, but now I can't wait to read Taylor Rose's next dark psychological romance book!
Ruin is a page-turning psychological thrill! Phoenix and Cain are complicated characters and Taylor Rose wrote them well. Phoenix and Cain are both strong troubled characters, and when they come together- whew! There are moments which may be triggering. On the other side of those moments are amazing characters and thrills.
This book drew me in from the beginning and kept me on an emotional rollercoaster! I felt every emotion right along with Phoenix and Cain. Taylor Rose wrote this so well I can still visualize each character and the locations. This is not my typical read, but now I can't wait to read Taylor Rose's next dark psychological romance book!
February 2, 2022
I wanna start by saying my first thoughts when I was only a couple pages in was oh sh** this is gonna be good! If you enjoy dark romances and a dark read you will enjoy this book. This book took me on highs and lows and I had my emotions in a twist.
She gave character development well also giving lust and levity.
I’m excited for the next installment because phoenix and Cain are just not done with me yet.
She gave character development well also giving lust and levity.
I’m excited for the next installment because phoenix and Cain are just not done with me yet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews