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Ruby Revenge
Him.
Cult. Murderer. Psycho.
Those words are the reason the outside world doesn’t know about our society.
To me, they’re my family. The group I would give my life for. I was born and raised in it like the generations before me. I learned early on that there’s no place for weakness. I let my heart become callous, living solely to do what the group asks of me. And I did. Until one of our ceremonies went wrong in every way possible.
All because of one girl. Sage Taylor.
She discovered our secret, and then fled. Finding her should have been easy. Instead, I find myself keeping things from my group for the first time ever. She is becoming a problem in ways I never could have guessed.
Because my thoughts are going places they never should.
She isn’t mine. The group owns her, and there is no escaping them. Her life is now bound to them as much as mine is.
Every second I spend with her, I find myself questioning the loyalty I swore my life to. Whatever she’s doing to me, I need to sever it.
Or neither of us will survive.
**Author’s note. This is a dark romance and contains dark themes. It is a slow burn stand-alone and ends with a HEA. For full list of CW please go to author’s website.**
Cult. Murderer. Psycho.
Those words are the reason the outside world doesn’t know about our society.
To me, they’re my family. The group I would give my life for. I was born and raised in it like the generations before me. I learned early on that there’s no place for weakness. I let my heart become callous, living solely to do what the group asks of me. And I did. Until one of our ceremonies went wrong in every way possible.
All because of one girl. Sage Taylor.
She discovered our secret, and then fled. Finding her should have been easy. Instead, I find myself keeping things from my group for the first time ever. She is becoming a problem in ways I never could have guessed.
Because my thoughts are going places they never should.
She isn’t mine. The group owns her, and there is no escaping them. Her life is now bound to them as much as mine is.
Every second I spend with her, I find myself questioning the loyalty I swore my life to. Whatever she’s doing to me, I need to sever it.
Or neither of us will survive.
**Author’s note. This is a dark romance and contains dark themes. It is a slow burn stand-alone and ends with a HEA. For full list of CW please go to author’s website.**
462 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2022
87 people are currently reading
906 people want to read
About the author
Kay Riley
17 books377 followersKay Riley writes dark contemporary and paranormal romance. She loves writing feisty, strong heroines, and keeps things interesting with unexpected twists. Kay grew up in the Midwest but has lived in some amazing places, including Japan.
When she's not writing, she is spending time with her husband and kids. She loves cats, coffee, reading, and her guilty pleasure is watching reality shows.
When she's not writing, she is spending time with her husband and kids. She loves cats, coffee, reading, and her guilty pleasure is watching reality shows.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 16, 2022
If this book isn’t the exact definition of a book made for me then I don’t know what is. This book just hit all of my buttons and I absolutely loved reading it.
I just loved the premise of this book. It’s no secret that I love dark and twisted books and everything about this one just really worked for me.
I really loved the thriller elements of this one and I loved trying to figure out all of the different twists in the books. I just had a lot of fun trying to guess what would happen next. Also, i’m a massive fan of how the male protagonist isn’t revealed to the reader at first and how it’s a mystery, that really added to the suspense element of the book and I loved it.
I really enjoyed the romance in this one. I thought that it really complimented the story and everything about it just really worked for me.
Also, I absolutely loved the heroine, Sage. She was so strong and fierce and I would have loved to be her friend, she was just an absolutely lovely main character.
I just had so much fun reading this book and I was so invested in this story that I could not stop reading, this book just hit all of my buttons.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review
I just loved the premise of this book. It’s no secret that I love dark and twisted books and everything about this one just really worked for me.
I really loved the thriller elements of this one and I loved trying to figure out all of the different twists in the books. I just had a lot of fun trying to guess what would happen next. Also, i’m a massive fan of how the male protagonist isn’t revealed to the reader at first and how it’s a mystery, that really added to the suspense element of the book and I loved it.
I really enjoyed the romance in this one. I thought that it really complimented the story and everything about it just really worked for me.
Also, I absolutely loved the heroine, Sage. She was so strong and fierce and I would have loved to be her friend, she was just an absolutely lovely main character.
I just had so much fun reading this book and I was so invested in this story that I could not stop reading, this book just hit all of my buttons.
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review
November 24, 2023
This would have been a 4 star books except I knocked it down a star because of the scene when she is having a panic attack and the only way to calm down is to dry hump a dude’s leg
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2022
A fabulous, edge of your seat, psychological thriller romance!
If you’re a fan of twisted cult psychological dark romance thrillers then holy hell!!!
Ruby Revenge by Kay Riley is just the one for you!!! Without giving much away, this is a story of strength, perseverance, overcoming tragedy, loss and finally finding love.
So be prepared as our fierce heroine Sage takes you on the ultimate of journeys when she suddenly finds herself in the middle of a crazy secret society’s agenda. I absolutely love how brave and tough she is and she handles everything that life throws at her and keeps on going. Especially as she finds the strength in the most unlikely of places…or people.
And as for Him? Let’s just say if you have a thing for dark villains that become saviors then you will love this one. And let’s just say that when these two finally get together they are absolute perfection!
And due to the nature of this book it’s really hard to tell you how amazing it is without giving anything away because trust me—you need to go in blind and with an open mind ti capture the full impact of this suspenseful story full of twists and turns and crazy revelations! Let’s just say if you love secret society/cult dark twisted psychological thrillers full of steamy, suspenseful twist filled plots then one click this bad boy now and see for yourself!
If you’re a fan of twisted cult psychological dark romance thrillers then holy hell!!!
Ruby Revenge by Kay Riley is just the one for you!!! Without giving much away, this is a story of strength, perseverance, overcoming tragedy, loss and finally finding love.
So be prepared as our fierce heroine Sage takes you on the ultimate of journeys when she suddenly finds herself in the middle of a crazy secret society’s agenda. I absolutely love how brave and tough she is and she handles everything that life throws at her and keeps on going. Especially as she finds the strength in the most unlikely of places…or people.
And as for Him? Let’s just say if you have a thing for dark villains that become saviors then you will love this one. And let’s just say that when these two finally get together they are absolute perfection!
And due to the nature of this book it’s really hard to tell you how amazing it is without giving anything away because trust me—you need to go in blind and with an open mind ti capture the full impact of this suspenseful story full of twists and turns and crazy revelations! Let’s just say if you love secret society/cult dark twisted psychological thrillers full of steamy, suspenseful twist filled plots then one click this bad boy now and see for yourself!
May 25, 2022
Ahhh I loved this so much!!
the suspense, the cult, the dark vibes, the enemies to lovers; the sassy banter; the have you on the edge of your seat vibes had me reading this every chance I got and I devoured this in 24 hours, so dang good!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
the suspense, the cult, the dark vibes, the enemies to lovers; the sassy banter; the have you on the edge of your seat vibes had me reading this every chance I got and I devoured this in 24 hours, so dang good!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 2, 2022
Wow! Ruby Revenge, I bloody loved it! *pun intended*
"I don't know which one I crave more. Hearing you scream my name or how you react to my touch."
It never ceases to amaze me how Kay can develop such creative, original, and unpredictable stories. Ruby Revenge is a dark, suspenseful romance with a lot of twists and turns, and she brings the SPICE!
Sage goes through a lot in this story, and all she wants is answers and to uncover the truth; she was such a badass FMC!
HIM was one of the main mystery elements in this book, and he was left a mystery for most of the story. HIM made the perfect deadly weapon due to his love and desire to protect Sage.
"It's the only thing that numbs me when I have to look at him. It helps me not feel."
Ruby Revenge was definitely a page-turner; the story kept you on edge the entire time. I highly recommend this book!
"I don't know which one I crave more. Hearing you scream my name or how you react to my touch."
It never ceases to amaze me how Kay can develop such creative, original, and unpredictable stories. Ruby Revenge is a dark, suspenseful romance with a lot of twists and turns, and she brings the SPICE!
Sage goes through a lot in this story, and all she wants is answers and to uncover the truth; she was such a badass FMC!
HIM was one of the main mystery elements in this book, and he was left a mystery for most of the story. HIM made the perfect deadly weapon due to his love and desire to protect Sage.
"It's the only thing that numbs me when I have to look at him. It helps me not feel."
Ruby Revenge was definitely a page-turner; the story kept you on edge the entire time. I highly recommend this book!
May 7, 2022
I absolutely loved this dark and twisted forbidden romantic thriller about a secret society. This book was really unique. In fact, we don’t even find out who the hero is until almost halfway through the book. Although the book is told in dual POV, the hero’s chapters are just labeled as “him.” This book kept me on the edge of my seat until the very end. I couldn’t put it down.
Our hero is part of a secret society with some murderous practices. The group has been around for hundreds of years and its members are very loyal. They hide in plain sight all around the world and are very powerful. Our hero is quite infatuated with our heroine, Sage, but she is forbidden. Sage has a connection to the society, and she inadvertently gets involved in one of the group’s ceremonies gone wrong. Now, Sage is a target and our hero has to decide how and if he can even help her.
Sage is a total badass. I love her! She is strong, resilient and strategic. She is determined not to become anyone’s victim. It was really fun trying to figure out who the hero was. The author definitely threw some curveballs at us. It is a very satisfying reveal, and I really liked his character development throughout the book.
The two main characters have hot chemistry and great banter. If they were to act on their real feelings (feelings that they are both in denial of), they’d be in serious danger. The forbidden aspect of their relationship is absolutely delicious. The plot had so many twists and turns. The author really kept me guessing until the very end. I really enjoyed all the suspense.
This was my first book by Kay Riley, but I will absolutely read more. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a suspenseful, mysterious, and thrilling romance!
Our hero is part of a secret society with some murderous practices. The group has been around for hundreds of years and its members are very loyal. They hide in plain sight all around the world and are very powerful. Our hero is quite infatuated with our heroine, Sage, but she is forbidden. Sage has a connection to the society, and she inadvertently gets involved in one of the group’s ceremonies gone wrong. Now, Sage is a target and our hero has to decide how and if he can even help her.
Sage is a total badass. I love her! She is strong, resilient and strategic. She is determined not to become anyone’s victim. It was really fun trying to figure out who the hero was. The author definitely threw some curveballs at us. It is a very satisfying reveal, and I really liked his character development throughout the book.
The two main characters have hot chemistry and great banter. If they were to act on their real feelings (feelings that they are both in denial of), they’d be in serious danger. The forbidden aspect of their relationship is absolutely delicious. The plot had so many twists and turns. The author really kept me guessing until the very end. I really enjoyed all the suspense.
This was my first book by Kay Riley, but I will absolutely read more. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a suspenseful, mysterious, and thrilling romance!
May 6, 2022
loved the thriller and romance mixed together
You guys!!!! This book was the perfect mixture of thriller/suspense and romance!!! We start off with a mysterious main male character, we’ll say it’s Him (I cannot say the name as it will give too much of the reading excitement away as have the fun is not knowing!). Sage finds herself and her family entangled in a mess with a cult. They want their sacrifice, willing or unwilling. Little did she know he world was about to crumble down when they went on a little vacation to the UP.
To say this family, and Sage has been through a lot and lost pretty much everyone is an understatement. When stuck between a rock and hard place, she finds trust in comfort in the MOST unlikely places, with him.
This is a hard review to write mostly because anything I say about it could be used to find out things you shouldn’t know until you read. However, I will say this. I absolutely loved Sage and her strength despite everything she ensures. Then there is him, he should be the villain in Sages story, but he literally finds way to make you melt. These two together are amazing and I love their love.
Now, I will also say, this is dark. Cult, secret society, twisted thriller dark. There are scenes that initially may seem like cheating, but trust they are NOT (plus it’s not between the main characters either). Even with that said, I would HIGHLY suggest reading this book when it releases early next month.
⚠️ dark graphic scenes including assault, abuse, murd€r. ⚠️
I received and ARC for my honest feedback
You guys!!!! This book was the perfect mixture of thriller/suspense and romance!!! We start off with a mysterious main male character, we’ll say it’s Him (I cannot say the name as it will give too much of the reading excitement away as have the fun is not knowing!). Sage finds herself and her family entangled in a mess with a cult. They want their sacrifice, willing or unwilling. Little did she know he world was about to crumble down when they went on a little vacation to the UP.
To say this family, and Sage has been through a lot and lost pretty much everyone is an understatement. When stuck between a rock and hard place, she finds trust in comfort in the MOST unlikely places, with him.
This is a hard review to write mostly because anything I say about it could be used to find out things you shouldn’t know until you read. However, I will say this. I absolutely loved Sage and her strength despite everything she ensures. Then there is him, he should be the villain in Sages story, but he literally finds way to make you melt. These two together are amazing and I love their love.
Now, I will also say, this is dark. Cult, secret society, twisted thriller dark. There are scenes that initially may seem like cheating, but trust they are NOT (plus it’s not between the main characters either). Even with that said, I would HIGHLY suggest reading this book when it releases early next month.
⚠️ dark graphic scenes including assault, abuse, murd€r. ⚠️
I received and ARC for my honest feedback
December 9, 2022
I can’t remember the last time I read a book I’d deem as a five star read, so color me surprised at how much I loved this book. The suspense? The plot twists? The unexpected romance? I mean it gave everything. Obviously in the beginning we are set up to believe “him” is Jamie. I was going to be mad if it was him because it was way too evident to be a twist. However, I did NOT EXPECT for Alex to be in on it. Like, 0% did I expect him to be involved.
I honestly didn’t even really suspect one of the twins. I was quite confused until it was semi-revealed. Even then I was thinking it might be another twist? 😅 I loved Niko. He totally earned redemption and the love of Sage in my eyes. I also loved Sage’s strength. While she didn’t always cope the best, she didn’t let her trauma totally destroy her. She was a bad ass heroine and the perfect match for Niko.
This was absolutely a slow burn. I’d say it may be one of the least “spicy” books I’ve read, but the tension and when the moments finally did hit left me feeling satisfied anyway. When Niko did express his feelings for Sage, and finally kissed her, I wanted to cry 🥹.
I do wish there had been more of an epilogue. So much of the book was spent with them being together in secret, it would’ve been nice to see more of their relationship being successful and in a good place finally. I also felt like there were a lot of time gaps where weeks or months had gone by.
It made it feel a little disjointed at some parts, but overall this book is 100% worth the read.
I honestly didn’t even really suspect one of the twins. I was quite confused until it was semi-revealed. Even then I was thinking it might be another twist? 😅 I loved Niko. He totally earned redemption and the love of Sage in my eyes. I also loved Sage’s strength. While she didn’t always cope the best, she didn’t let her trauma totally destroy her. She was a bad ass heroine and the perfect match for Niko.
This was absolutely a slow burn. I’d say it may be one of the least “spicy” books I’ve read, but the tension and when the moments finally did hit left me feeling satisfied anyway. When Niko did express his feelings for Sage, and finally kissed her, I wanted to cry 🥹.
I do wish there had been more of an epilogue. So much of the book was spent with them being together in secret, it would’ve been nice to see more of their relationship being successful and in a good place finally. I also felt like there were a lot of time gaps where weeks or months had gone by.
It made it feel a little disjointed at some parts, but overall this book is 100% worth the read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2022
I will admit that this book was a little difficult to get into and remain interested. I have read most of Kay Riley’s previous books so I knew that the storyline would have intricate details woven amazingly into the overall plot. I think that this one was a little too long for me and was a little slower paced.
In Ruby Revenge, we have Sage Taylor who is going on a small vacation with her boyfriend, her sister Lacey and Lacey’s love interest Jamie. They decide to go away to one of the small towns that the Taylor sisters used to camp in when they were kids. Things go awry very quickly when they get to the camp area and something happens to Lacey. The rest of the story is Sage trying her best to survive against a Society with interesting beliefs.
I don’t think this story was for me. I do like a good mystery and this was told with two character’s POV. One was Sage and the other was a mystery man who the reader gets to guess as they read along. I very much liked this idea as it was someone I did not expect. I was very much lead astray in my guessing with the male characters. I did like the concept of the Society’s structure and was very curious how Sage was going to make it out given how large the Society is.
This is an ARC review.
In Ruby Revenge, we have Sage Taylor who is going on a small vacation with her boyfriend, her sister Lacey and Lacey’s love interest Jamie. They decide to go away to one of the small towns that the Taylor sisters used to camp in when they were kids. Things go awry very quickly when they get to the camp area and something happens to Lacey. The rest of the story is Sage trying her best to survive against a Society with interesting beliefs.
I don’t think this story was for me. I do like a good mystery and this was told with two character’s POV. One was Sage and the other was a mystery man who the reader gets to guess as they read along. I very much liked this idea as it was someone I did not expect. I was very much lead astray in my guessing with the male characters. I did like the concept of the Society’s structure and was very curious how Sage was going to make it out given how large the Society is.
This is an ARC review.
May 10, 2022
•Dark Romance
•Thriller
•Slow-Burn
•Stand-alone
•Forbidden Romance
Trigger Warning: on page murder
1.5-2 🌶
Sage Taylor goes on a weekend camping getaway with her boyfriend, Alex, of 3 years, her sister, Lacey, and Lacey’s boyfriend. What’s supposed to be a relaxing time away to relive some childhood memories turns into the end of life as she knows it.
Twenty years ago, Sage’s mom went missing. On this getaway she discovers her mom actually fell victim to a cult. Now that cult wants Sage and Lacey.
They’ll have to find her first.
All the while, another cult member struggles with some cognitive dissonance. He’s grown up in the cult, he’s been taught it’s just their way of life, and that the “group” comes before all personal wants and desires. But Meeting Sage changes all of that for Him. Despite His ingrained beliefs, He can’t help but put Himself at risk to help Sage in whatever way possible.
I was gifted an ARC of Ruby Revenge by @thesmuthood in exchange for an honest review. It was dark and twisty! The prose is very easy to read and the twists will keep you guessing. There were a few parts that moved a little slow for me (from 20%-40% in particular), but then it picked up again for a satisfying 2nd half and finish.
•Thriller
•Slow-Burn
•Stand-alone
•Forbidden Romance
Trigger Warning: on page murder
1.5-2 🌶
Sage Taylor goes on a weekend camping getaway with her boyfriend, Alex, of 3 years, her sister, Lacey, and Lacey’s boyfriend. What’s supposed to be a relaxing time away to relive some childhood memories turns into the end of life as she knows it.
Twenty years ago, Sage’s mom went missing. On this getaway she discovers her mom actually fell victim to a cult. Now that cult wants Sage and Lacey.
They’ll have to find her first.
All the while, another cult member struggles with some cognitive dissonance. He’s grown up in the cult, he’s been taught it’s just their way of life, and that the “group” comes before all personal wants and desires. But Meeting Sage changes all of that for Him. Despite His ingrained beliefs, He can’t help but put Himself at risk to help Sage in whatever way possible.
I was gifted an ARC of Ruby Revenge by @thesmuthood in exchange for an honest review. It was dark and twisty! The prose is very easy to read and the twists will keep you guessing. There were a few parts that moved a little slow for me (from 20%-40% in particular), but then it picked up again for a satisfying 2nd half and finish.
September 2, 2022
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Spice Level: 🌶/5
Darkness Level: 💀💀/5
⚠️ Murder, cult/secret society, physical attacks, kind of cheating
I saw this book recommended in one of my dark reader groups. The cover told me it would be spicy, and the title promised revenge. Those, along with the recommendation had me adding it quickly to my list...without reading the blurb.
Kay Riley is new to me author, and I found it well written and edited. I liked how the hero's identity was a mystery for a short time, and the "cult's" purpose was certainly unique, if a bit unbelievable.
There's a huge debate between readers that no author can satisfy: do you like your books fast paced, or slow? I prefer a good balance, but if I had to choose, I'd prefer quicker. This was a bit too slow for my liking.
‼️ POSSIBLE SPOILER BELOW ‼️
The story is very focused on the cult/society theme, and I felt the romance came second to that. Although the cover is spicy, the content is not. I did feel the title was a bit misleading - besides wanting to take down the society, there was no other revenge. I was a bit disappointed at this.
Although this ended up not being what I expected, I did enjoy many aspects of it. If slow burn, plot heavy books with a bit of mystery are your jam, give this a try!
Spice Level: 🌶/5
Darkness Level: 💀💀/5
⚠️ Murder, cult/secret society, physical attacks, kind of cheating
I saw this book recommended in one of my dark reader groups. The cover told me it would be spicy, and the title promised revenge. Those, along with the recommendation had me adding it quickly to my list...without reading the blurb.
Kay Riley is new to me author, and I found it well written and edited. I liked how the hero's identity was a mystery for a short time, and the "cult's" purpose was certainly unique, if a bit unbelievable.
There's a huge debate between readers that no author can satisfy: do you like your books fast paced, or slow? I prefer a good balance, but if I had to choose, I'd prefer quicker. This was a bit too slow for my liking.
‼️ POSSIBLE SPOILER BELOW ‼️
The story is very focused on the cult/society theme, and I felt the romance came second to that. Although the cover is spicy, the content is not. I did feel the title was a bit misleading - besides wanting to take down the society, there was no other revenge. I was a bit disappointed at this.
Although this ended up not being what I expected, I did enjoy many aspects of it. If slow burn, plot heavy books with a bit of mystery are your jam, give this a try!
May 9, 2022
ARC/Beta Review
I received this book and am reviewing as a beta/arc reviewer.
Firstly there’s a good twist with this story with the MMC being labeled him throughout! It’s a nice puzzle to try to figure out, which I thought several times I did until I really did! And was pleasantly pleased with it as well! I would classify this a suspenseful, but not dark per se but there are dark themes!
The FMC is somewhat sheltered in my opinion and secluded besides her sister, since her mom disappeared several years ago and her dad is in a dementia facility.
Her longtime boyfriend has a dangerous secret and it evolves in layers as it the story unfolds.
Honestly the sneaking around and spicy scenes with the MMC, I could have done with more - but that’s just me.
There’s plenty of suspense, like your heart is pounding nail biting! I really enjoyed this standalone and would love a novella as what the two MC future holds.
The main character development happens as the FMC becomes less naive and the MMC does a 180 on his thoughts and beliefs!
Enjoy this read y’all!
I received this book and am reviewing as a beta/arc reviewer.
Firstly there’s a good twist with this story with the MMC being labeled him throughout! It’s a nice puzzle to try to figure out, which I thought several times I did until I really did! And was pleasantly pleased with it as well! I would classify this a suspenseful, but not dark per se but there are dark themes!
The FMC is somewhat sheltered in my opinion and secluded besides her sister, since her mom disappeared several years ago and her dad is in a dementia facility.
Her longtime boyfriend has a dangerous secret and it evolves in layers as it the story unfolds.
Honestly the sneaking around and spicy scenes with the MMC, I could have done with more - but that’s just me.
There’s plenty of suspense, like your heart is pounding nail biting! I really enjoyed this standalone and would love a novella as what the two MC future holds.
The main character development happens as the FMC becomes less naive and the MMC does a 180 on his thoughts and beliefs!
Enjoy this read y’all!
May 1, 2022
I am obsessed with this book! It's so amazing! In Capac, there's a bit of a mystery going on, disappearances, lots of secrets, but it's bigger than Capac. A lot bigger.
Sage is on her way to spend the best weekend of her life, when it turns into her worst. No spoilers, but I was SHOCKED. Sage's life is turned upside down, but she's never far enough away from what she's running from.
Let me tell you... the number of shocking moments in this one is insane. INSANE. I have yelled so many times while reading because I was blindsided by things. Sage and Him have such amazing chemistry too. They are 🔥🔥🔥
Sage is strong and does what she needs to do to survive. There were times where I wasn't sure what was going to happen. I was rooting for her the whole time.
Ruby Revenge is a thriller that will keep your heart rate going a million miles an hour. It is a standalone, so no cliffhanger, but WHAT A RIDE!!
Sage is on her way to spend the best weekend of her life, when it turns into her worst. No spoilers, but I was SHOCKED. Sage's life is turned upside down, but she's never far enough away from what she's running from.
Let me tell you... the number of shocking moments in this one is insane. INSANE. I have yelled so many times while reading because I was blindsided by things. Sage and Him have such amazing chemistry too. They are 🔥🔥🔥
Sage is strong and does what she needs to do to survive. There were times where I wasn't sure what was going to happen. I was rooting for her the whole time.
Ruby Revenge is a thriller that will keep your heart rate going a million miles an hour. It is a standalone, so no cliffhanger, but WHAT A RIDE!!
May 6, 2022
Heart-stopping Thriller
This book was a serious page turner. A psychological thriller that will leaving you guessing along the way. This book is written in 1st POV with multiple views.
Sage's life has been intertwined with a cult without her even knowing it, since her mother's death. Unbeknownst to her, nothing is as it seems, as secrets and lies are hidden from her.
What was the most unique by part of this dark romance? You have to guess who "him" is. He gives his insight and obvious attraction to Sage along the way and his character growth is substantial. The fact that you, as the reader, have no clue who "he" is, just adds to the heart-stopping suspense.
I'm not a huge fan of slow-burn books, but I didn't even miss it here. The well crafted story will keep you obsessed with figuring out what is actually going on.
If you're a fan of mystery/suspense thrillers, RUN and read this one. It is a standalone with a satisfying end. Highly recommend.
This book was a serious page turner. A psychological thriller that will leaving you guessing along the way. This book is written in 1st POV with multiple views.
Sage's life has been intertwined with a cult without her even knowing it, since her mother's death. Unbeknownst to her, nothing is as it seems, as secrets and lies are hidden from her.
What was the most unique by part of this dark romance? You have to guess who "him" is. He gives his insight and obvious attraction to Sage along the way and his character growth is substantial. The fact that you, as the reader, have no clue who "he" is, just adds to the heart-stopping suspense.
I'm not a huge fan of slow-burn books, but I didn't even miss it here. The well crafted story will keep you obsessed with figuring out what is actually going on.
If you're a fan of mystery/suspense thrillers, RUN and read this one. It is a standalone with a satisfying end. Highly recommend.
May 14, 2022
Thank you to The Smuthood and Kay Riley for letting me participate in this review tour!
This book was better than I expected. I mean no disrespect to the author but I just thought it would be about a cult and it was so much more than that! It was romance, it was a thriller, it was edge of my seat waiting for something to happen magic.
Sage was one tough main character. I couldn't imagine going through the loss of a mom, and the decline of a father's health, and that was just the first chapter! She handled herself throughout the story. She proved just how strong she was.
The premise behind "him" was what got me hooked. I tried figuring it out. I wrote down all the characters and crossed them off as the story went on, but I still couldn't figure it out.
The twists and turns in this book are worth the read. The spicy is spicy. The romance is a slow burn but so worth it. This is one I will definitely recommend.
This book was better than I expected. I mean no disrespect to the author but I just thought it would be about a cult and it was so much more than that! It was romance, it was a thriller, it was edge of my seat waiting for something to happen magic.
Sage was one tough main character. I couldn't imagine going through the loss of a mom, and the decline of a father's health, and that was just the first chapter! She handled herself throughout the story. She proved just how strong she was.
The premise behind "him" was what got me hooked. I tried figuring it out. I wrote down all the characters and crossed them off as the story went on, but I still couldn't figure it out.
The twists and turns in this book are worth the read. The spicy is spicy. The romance is a slow burn but so worth it. This is one I will definitely recommend.
May 2, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
1.5🌶
This book left me speechless...I was not at all planned to be swept away on Sage's journey & be invested so quickly!
I received this book as an ARC & finished it in less than 10 hours (while adulting in between). Immediately you are pulled into this mysterious, dark, journey & the thrill of the "Him" chapters but not knowing who only makes it better. I was constantly trying to figure out who he was, how deep is the society, who can she trust, will she escape? The buildup to the climax & resolution was great & I was worried initially that there wouldn't be romace...no spoilers but I will say I was smitten & his character development was amazing.
The perspective this book provided into cults, the impacts, how deep they can run, a member's POV (who is on the verge of some big choices & shifts) was just great.
Check triggers but I definitely recommend reading it!
1.5🌶
This book left me speechless...I was not at all planned to be swept away on Sage's journey & be invested so quickly!
I received this book as an ARC & finished it in less than 10 hours (while adulting in between). Immediately you are pulled into this mysterious, dark, journey & the thrill of the "Him" chapters but not knowing who only makes it better. I was constantly trying to figure out who he was, how deep is the society, who can she trust, will she escape? The buildup to the climax & resolution was great & I was worried initially that there wouldn't be romace...no spoilers but I will say I was smitten & his character development was amazing.
The perspective this book provided into cults, the impacts, how deep they can run, a member's POV (who is on the verge of some big choices & shifts) was just great.
Check triggers but I definitely recommend reading it!
March 18, 2022
Wowza!
**SPOILER FREE REVIEW**
This book was so refreshingly different from other dark romance books I've read the past few years. There's a great mystery angle to this book with the MMC being unknown for a good portion of the book. And I must say, I absolutely LOVED "him." He is ultimate book boyfriend material for sure and I was excited each time I got to one of his chapters!
The entire stand-alone book is really suspenseful and has major thriller vibes with The Society! And the romance (which is slow-burn) was steamy and satisfying in the best of ways.
Overall, the storyline was great, characters felt real, the thriller part really kept me turning pages like a crazy person, and the romance was the ultimate cherry on top. It was awesome and I highly recommend!
5/5!!
**SPOILER FREE REVIEW**
This book was so refreshingly different from other dark romance books I've read the past few years. There's a great mystery angle to this book with the MMC being unknown for a good portion of the book. And I must say, I absolutely LOVED "him." He is ultimate book boyfriend material for sure and I was excited each time I got to one of his chapters!
The entire stand-alone book is really suspenseful and has major thriller vibes with The Society! And the romance (which is slow-burn) was steamy and satisfying in the best of ways.
Overall, the storyline was great, characters felt real, the thriller part really kept me turning pages like a crazy person, and the romance was the ultimate cherry on top. It was awesome and I highly recommend!
5/5!!
April 24, 2022
Exciting, engaging and dark! Sadie’s life has been intertwined with a cult since her mothers death. Of course, she is unaware of it. Nothing in her life is what it seems. There are many secrets that people she’s trusted for years are keeping. Once they are revealed, she finds herself an unlikely ally.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely LOVED that I had to figure out who “Him” was! Along with that, the twists and turn kept me on my toes. Just when you think it can’t get worse, another secret comes to light. “Him” is now added to my book boyfriends. I absolutely adored his character growth throughout this book.
If you are looking for a dark romance that will suck you in and make you solve a mystery, this is for you!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely LOVED that I had to figure out who “Him” was! Along with that, the twists and turn kept me on my toes. Just when you think it can’t get worse, another secret comes to light. “Him” is now added to my book boyfriends. I absolutely adored his character growth throughout this book.
If you are looking for a dark romance that will suck you in and make you solve a mystery, this is for you!
May 7, 2022
Holy. Hell.
Y’all.
I knew it was going to be good and it was going to be intriguing. But I was not ready for it.
Kay has a way of writing suspense and thriller and mystery that keeps you gripped from the start. Heck if kept me awake until 4somethin in the morning because it was always “just one more chapter” but one isn’t enough.
An added bonus with this book is that while you know who Sage is throughout, He is a mystery. You get these little hints as to who He is and honestly there’s a number of candidates of who it is.
It’s a standalone with secret society and deep mystery intrigue, the wrap of it I think fits really well for the world that was created.
CW:
Murder
Captive/captor
Secret society
Gaslighting
Blackmail
Lowkey torture
Hidden identity
Y’all.
I knew it was going to be good and it was going to be intriguing. But I was not ready for it.
Kay has a way of writing suspense and thriller and mystery that keeps you gripped from the start. Heck if kept me awake until 4somethin in the morning because it was always “just one more chapter” but one isn’t enough.
An added bonus with this book is that while you know who Sage is throughout, He is a mystery. You get these little hints as to who He is and honestly there’s a number of candidates of who it is.
It’s a standalone with secret society and deep mystery intrigue, the wrap of it I think fits really well for the world that was created.
CW:
Murder
Captive/captor
Secret society
Gaslighting
Blackmail
Lowkey torture
Hidden identity
May 11, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! It’s been a minute since I’ve read any suspenseful books and this definitely was which I found pleasantly surprising! It’s also spooky and creepy which I love!
This story follows Sage who finds out that her mother was murdered when her body is found 20 years after she disappeared and she soon finds out that the people she thought she knew are in fact part of a large cult called the Society. Sage has to fight for her life while also trying to do the right thing and bring the Society down. What she doesn’t anticipate is falling for Him.
I really loved the way He was with Sage, she really didn’t have anyone she could count on after what the Society did to her family so I loved seeing their dynamics and them trying to fight it.
This story follows Sage who finds out that her mother was murdered when her body is found 20 years after she disappeared and she soon finds out that the people she thought she knew are in fact part of a large cult called the Society. Sage has to fight for her life while also trying to do the right thing and bring the Society down. What she doesn’t anticipate is falling for Him.
I really loved the way He was with Sage, she really didn’t have anyone she could count on after what the Society did to her family so I loved seeing their dynamics and them trying to fight it.
May 13, 2022
The FMC is out on a holiday with her boyfriend, sis, and a friend and in a matter of minutes her life is turned upside down.
Her longtime boyfriend is in a cult along with his family.
It is written in a unique way there is her perspective and then HIM. You don't know for about half of the book who he is but I was always guessing and whenever it got to his chapter my answer would be different everytime.
FMC runs away changing her name and appearance. Her now exboyfriend brother finds her before the cult and warns he that they are coming for her. Having to stay with the exboyfriend to prove her loyalty after she is found. She can't stand his presence instead she starts enjoying her time with the brother more.
Her longtime boyfriend is in a cult along with his family.
It is written in a unique way there is her perspective and then HIM. You don't know for about half of the book who he is but I was always guessing and whenever it got to his chapter my answer would be different everytime.
FMC runs away changing her name and appearance. Her now exboyfriend brother finds her before the cult and warns he that they are coming for her. Having to stay with the exboyfriend to prove her loyalty after she is found. She can't stand his presence instead she starts enjoying her time with the brother more.
April 26, 2022
Without giving too much away (because I truly believe it’s best to go into this book blind), Ruby Revenge is a dark, suspenseful romance that follows Sage - who’s family unknowingly plays a big part in a secret cult. Sage is a fantastic FMC who’s strong, smart and incredibly engaging. The big mystery in this novel is *him*. Although you get his POV from the get go, you don’t know who he is until later on. All I’ll say about *him* is that his character arc was superb. I was so in love with him by the end and so proud of his character development. The slow burn in this was perfect. Definitely a hard one to put down.
August 15, 2025
The idea of this story was so interesting! There were some really good parts and it was a good mix of romance and mystery/thriller.
Unfortunately, this one got a little too long. There were times when Sage would go in circles with her thoughts explaining to the reader what she had to do and why, and how much she couldn't keep doing what she was doing. It started dragging in the middle and was slow.
Things picked up toward the end, but then the ending felt very fast. The story was just not where I thought it would go. I think Sage needed to be a little smarter and actually got her "revenge" in a more fun way.
This was enjoyable and different, but will be forgettable for me.
Unfortunately, this one got a little too long. There were times when Sage would go in circles with her thoughts explaining to the reader what she had to do and why, and how much she couldn't keep doing what she was doing. It started dragging in the middle and was slow.
Things picked up toward the end, but then the ending felt very fast. The story was just not where I thought it would go. I think Sage needed to be a little smarter and actually got her "revenge" in a more fun way.
This was enjoyable and different, but will be forgettable for me.
April 22, 2022
Kay Riley is INCREDIBLE!!!!
Ruby Revenge has a different take on dark romance. We don't know who "him" is, but we get his POV and I am so in love with "him"!!
Go in blind!! I promise it's worth it!!! You will be glued to the pages, and you won't want to put this book down.
Everything about Ruby Revenge is absolutely amazing!! The mystery and suspense will have you on the edge of your seat, the banter between Sage and "him" (plus the tension) is some of Kay's best, and don't let the slowburn fool you, when its spicy, it's HOT!!
Kay Riley has once again given us a masterpiece!!!
Ruby Revenge has a different take on dark romance. We don't know who "him" is, but we get his POV and I am so in love with "him"!!
Go in blind!! I promise it's worth it!!! You will be glued to the pages, and you won't want to put this book down.
Everything about Ruby Revenge is absolutely amazing!! The mystery and suspense will have you on the edge of your seat, the banter between Sage and "him" (plus the tension) is some of Kay's best, and don't let the slowburn fool you, when its spicy, it's HOT!!
Kay Riley has once again given us a masterpiece!!!
April 30, 2022
Sage - lost her mother, and her dad is sick. Her family has been a part of the Society for years without even knowing. Now that she knows, Sage is determined to make things right. She is one strong, smart person, and I really enjoyed watching her character grow.
Him - love the unknown of a character. The suspense of figuring out who “Him” is and seeing how he helps Sage.
Rubys Revenge is such a good read. The suspense, the drama, the romance, and the darkness all fit in and really drag you into the story.
Him - love the unknown of a character. The suspense of figuring out who “Him” is and seeing how he helps Sage.
Rubys Revenge is such a good read. The suspense, the drama, the romance, and the darkness all fit in and really drag you into the story.
May 7, 2022
cult crazy
You definitely have to have a open mind when reading this. This is my first cult romance and at the beginning I just couldn’t see where the romance was going to happened but as you get to the sacrifice and “him” is revealed things slowly start to change. This is a slow burn romance but the chemistry that builds between Sage and “him” becomes addicting. I couldn’t put this book down, being sucked into the crazy beliefs, the chemistry, and Sage’s revenge plan. This is a standalone novel so there are no cliffhangers.
You definitely have to have a open mind when reading this. This is my first cult romance and at the beginning I just couldn’t see where the romance was going to happened but as you get to the sacrifice and “him” is revealed things slowly start to change. This is a slow burn romance but the chemistry that builds between Sage and “him” becomes addicting. I couldn’t put this book down, being sucked into the crazy beliefs, the chemistry, and Sage’s revenge plan. This is a standalone novel so there are no cliffhangers.
May 9, 2022
The questions, all the questions from the VERY beginning!! I mean, I couldn't put it down. I just needed to know what was going to happen next! And the mystery about who Him would turn out to be was an awesome touch to this cult crazy thriller of a book. This is definitely a very slow burn between Sage and "Him". The chemistry build up is so fun to follow along with starting from hate and growing into something so much more. Be prepare for all the twist and turns and the wild ride you are about to embark on, but please check your triggers.
May 12, 2022
This is one of my favourite reads to date this year!! This dark, forced proximity, enemies to lovers/forbidden romance tale was explosive and full of tension!! I love that the author kept the male role a secret and he is only referred to as him so you have to discover his story as you go.
Think secret societies, missing redheads and sprinkle in awesome spicy scenes and a plot that keeps on giving and that’s just the beginning.
Highly recommend giving this a go if you love dark romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily❤️
Think secret societies, missing redheads and sprinkle in awesome spicy scenes and a plot that keeps on giving and that’s just the beginning.
Highly recommend giving this a go if you love dark romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily❤️
June 6, 2022
6/5 Stars
I was having squirrel brain on book interests this past week and just could not find anything to catch my eye, then all of a sudden I stumbled across this book from a random Tiktok post, and it was GOOD. One thing that caught my eye and really hooked me in was the fact that the author doesn't tell you who the MMC is, he is only addressed as "HIM" which added a suspenseful vibe to the story because I kept playing "is it him?". There is a secret society, and they have a "belief" that they follow every full moon for their people and unfortunately for our MFC Sage and her older sister Lacey, they have been chosen for this ritual. I really think you should to go in blind on this one, it really enhanced the experience for me. AND it is FREE on KU!!
I was having squirrel brain on book interests this past week and just could not find anything to catch my eye, then all of a sudden I stumbled across this book from a random Tiktok post, and it was GOOD. One thing that caught my eye and really hooked me in was the fact that the author doesn't tell you who the MMC is, he is only addressed as "HIM" which added a suspenseful vibe to the story because I kept playing "is it him?". There is a secret society, and they have a "belief" that they follow every full moon for their people and unfortunately for our MFC Sage and her older sister Lacey, they have been chosen for this ritual. I really think you should to go in blind on this one, it really enhanced the experience for me. AND it is FREE on KU!!
May 5, 2022
kayriley did an amazing job with this standalone. I like that it was different than any other dark romance book ive read. There was suspence, mystery, determination, darkness, This book had it all. The story isn't what you think it is. Every little thing in Sage's life is connected without here knowledge, but that is about to change.😏 She is such an badass!
I loved the mystery of HIM.. You won't know who he is (yet). At first I did not like it that he was a mystery but it made me the more intrigued to find out but Kay made me fall in love with him after all😊
I loved the mystery of HIM.. You won't know who he is (yet). At first I did not like it that he was a mystery but it made me the more intrigued to find out but Kay made me fall in love with him after all😊
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