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Ruined Records #1-2
The Ruined Records Duet
Left in Ruins
As the daughter of two of the most recognizable rock stars of all time, Lyric Sinclair has seen it all. After spending her childhood in the limelight, this omega prefers comfy patterned pajamas, quietly donating her time, and nights spent in with her beta boyfriend.
When fate and bad luck intervene, Lyric does what she always does. She runs hoping all her problems magically disappear. Unfortunately for Lyric, she runs straight into old hurts, ugly truths, and hard facts.
Lyric must accept reality.
You can't run forever and you can't hide from who you are.
Madness
Lyric Sinclair has had a whirlwind couple of months. She got sucked back into the industry that she thought she was free of, she's in an exclusive relationship with a rock band, and her ex is back in the picture.
A whole new set of challenges arise as Lyric and her guys work through their grief. Moving on is never a simple task, but Lyric has back up and these guys aren't afraid to fight for what they want most.
Danger is closer than ever, but Lyric is learning to face her demons rather than running at the first sign of trouble. She better figure it out. Or it'll be her biggest regret yet.
*This edition is the completed duet. It includes an additional twenty-two thousand words worth of bonus content, extra scenes, and extended epilogues.
**Please read the Author's Note before diving in. This is a character driven plot with a neurodivergent FMC.
As the daughter of two of the most recognizable rock stars of all time, Lyric Sinclair has seen it all. After spending her childhood in the limelight, this omega prefers comfy patterned pajamas, quietly donating her time, and nights spent in with her beta boyfriend.
When fate and bad luck intervene, Lyric does what she always does. She runs hoping all her problems magically disappear. Unfortunately for Lyric, she runs straight into old hurts, ugly truths, and hard facts.
Lyric must accept reality.
You can't run forever and you can't hide from who you are.
Madness
Lyric Sinclair has had a whirlwind couple of months. She got sucked back into the industry that she thought she was free of, she's in an exclusive relationship with a rock band, and her ex is back in the picture.
A whole new set of challenges arise as Lyric and her guys work through their grief. Moving on is never a simple task, but Lyric has back up and these guys aren't afraid to fight for what they want most.
Danger is closer than ever, but Lyric is learning to face her demons rather than running at the first sign of trouble. She better figure it out. Or it'll be her biggest regret yet.
*This edition is the completed duet. It includes an additional twenty-two thousand words worth of bonus content, extra scenes, and extended epilogues.
**Please read the Author's Note before diving in. This is a character driven plot with a neurodivergent FMC.
762 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2023
206 people are currently reading
239 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
June 2, 2024
This is a review for the whole Ruined records duet full of spoilers below:
I absolutely love Jillian West. She never disappoints. She was my intro into the omegaverse world a while back, and I've been hooked ever since! But because of that I have a deep love for her books! Which is why I hate that I put off reading this duet! I mainly avoided it because I really don't like the whole Rockstar trope, but this duet was soooo much more than that and the rockstar trope really took a back seat and it was more of a story about Lyric finding herself as a neurodivergent omega that struggles with grief and abandonment issues!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Humor: 🙃🙃🙃
Spice:🌶 🌶
Dark: ✔️
Pace: Medium burn
Ending: HEA for all with pregnancy
Mildly emotional
Low angst
Tropes: Large pack, mild MM, 5 dirty talking alphas, 1 very alpha like beta, neurodivergent omega, Rockstars,
Trigger warning: Stalking, abusive parent, talk of SA, processing abandonment, drug use, talk of adoption, struggling with grief and abuse
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Spoilers below
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Lyric was such an incredible representation of a strong-willed neurodivergent omega! She struggled with so much, but she never stopped fighting. Even when she was at her lowest on top of the roof and had her first encounter with Lachlan. "Planning a date with the pavement?" Lachlan was the perfect alpha to help pull her out of her struggles! He was fun-loving, always cracking jokes, and eager to get to know her!
When she acknowledged that Lachlan saved her that day on the roof, I felt so many emotions.
-"I was dancing on the wall, that brick barrier that blocks people from falling off the roof. I didn't have the balls to toss myself off, but I also didn't really care if I fell."
"Christ Kitten.” Dex holds me tight. "You're in a better place now? Yeah?" I nod.
"I think Lachlan saved me that night."-
Griffin was also such a great addition to the pack. He adored her for so long and protected her. Watched her struggle through the pain Saint put her through, but always put things into perspective for her and was there for her.
Callan "Crew" he was my favorite. So tender. He was more like a beta to me, but I'm so glad he was an alpha! Lyric and him making a pact to always be there for each other and help each through their struggles was so sweet. I loved that Lyric always set him straight when he would spiral and encouraged things with him and Saint. I wish we could have seen more of Crew and Saint together. But I get that it was more about the pact supporting their omega!
Saint... I wanted so badly to hate him even when he hurt Sin! And I still will never understand why he put Reba's mental health above Sin's. I know he was trying to protect her, but it hurt to read. He really did make a huge change in the way he went after Sin and groveled! When he calmed her down during her panic attack and talked Lachlan through how to handle her when she had them, I was swoooonnning!! The bond he and Sin had, even without the actual bond was beautifully written! Saint took such good care of her and loved her so deeply, and it showed. Especially in his inner dialogue and the way he talked to the other guys about her!
-"Hell, I never believed in soulmates either. Not until I met the other half of my fucking heart."-
Rooker, I wanted to like. And it's not that I didn't. I just didn't feel like his character was as well developed as the other guys. Even with the history him and Lyric shared. I kinda felt like he was far too moody towards her. But we can't love everyone, and there always needs to be a moody alpha!
Jaxon "Storm", I loved him the second his character was dropped in! Broody and protective, dom like, always putting his job first, but still pining after Lyric. I loved how the guys could tell that something was going to develop between him and Lyric and gave him the go-ahead to pursue it with all kinds of tips! Lyric was so feisty with him, and he always pushed her knowing exactly what she needed. Whether it be a fire lit inside of her or a hug!
-I run my fingers over her soft cheek.
"Do you need a spanking?" I ask, taunting her. I'm not sure I know what I hope she'll say. "Your guys gave me a couple of ideas to calm you down, that was at the top of the list."
"Yeah right. You're all talk"-
This pack was so open with each other. They accepted Saint when they noticed how much he loved Lyric and how completely at peace she felt when he was near her. They also accepted Storm when they realized how protective her was over Lyric and took a bullet for her!
I need to see more of Ravvi and his gifts!!!!
Saint- "Before I was even a man, I met the girl of my dreams. She was a bit broken. Desperate to be loved and seen. I was lonely. Busy trying to self-destruct. Two broken pieces made a whole. Then we added in all these other fuckers. And that's when our life truly began. We made a family. Turned a house into a home. Came upon another lost soul who needed us as much as we needed him. Gave him a baby brother. The bond sings, overflowing with a feeling of utter contentment."
I absolutely love Jillian West. She never disappoints. She was my intro into the omegaverse world a while back, and I've been hooked ever since! But because of that I have a deep love for her books! Which is why I hate that I put off reading this duet! I mainly avoided it because I really don't like the whole Rockstar trope, but this duet was soooo much more than that and the rockstar trope really took a back seat and it was more of a story about Lyric finding herself as a neurodivergent omega that struggles with grief and abandonment issues!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Humor: 🙃🙃🙃
Spice:🌶 🌶
Dark: ✔️
Pace: Medium burn
Ending: HEA for all with pregnancy
Mildly emotional
Low angst
Tropes: Large pack, mild MM, 5 dirty talking alphas, 1 very alpha like beta, neurodivergent omega, Rockstars,
Trigger warning: Stalking, abusive parent, talk of SA, processing abandonment, drug use, talk of adoption, struggling with grief and abuse
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.
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.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
...........................
Spoilers below
............................
Lyric was such an incredible representation of a strong-willed neurodivergent omega! She struggled with so much, but she never stopped fighting. Even when she was at her lowest on top of the roof and had her first encounter with Lachlan. "Planning a date with the pavement?" Lachlan was the perfect alpha to help pull her out of her struggles! He was fun-loving, always cracking jokes, and eager to get to know her!
When she acknowledged that Lachlan saved her that day on the roof, I felt so many emotions.
-"I was dancing on the wall, that brick barrier that blocks people from falling off the roof. I didn't have the balls to toss myself off, but I also didn't really care if I fell."
"Christ Kitten.” Dex holds me tight. "You're in a better place now? Yeah?" I nod.
"I think Lachlan saved me that night."-
Griffin was also such a great addition to the pack. He adored her for so long and protected her. Watched her struggle through the pain Saint put her through, but always put things into perspective for her and was there for her.
Callan "Crew" he was my favorite. So tender. He was more like a beta to me, but I'm so glad he was an alpha! Lyric and him making a pact to always be there for each other and help each through their struggles was so sweet. I loved that Lyric always set him straight when he would spiral and encouraged things with him and Saint. I wish we could have seen more of Crew and Saint together. But I get that it was more about the pact supporting their omega!
Saint... I wanted so badly to hate him even when he hurt Sin! And I still will never understand why he put Reba's mental health above Sin's. I know he was trying to protect her, but it hurt to read. He really did make a huge change in the way he went after Sin and groveled! When he calmed her down during her panic attack and talked Lachlan through how to handle her when she had them, I was swoooonnning!! The bond he and Sin had, even without the actual bond was beautifully written! Saint took such good care of her and loved her so deeply, and it showed. Especially in his inner dialogue and the way he talked to the other guys about her!
-"Hell, I never believed in soulmates either. Not until I met the other half of my fucking heart."-
Rooker, I wanted to like. And it's not that I didn't. I just didn't feel like his character was as well developed as the other guys. Even with the history him and Lyric shared. I kinda felt like he was far too moody towards her. But we can't love everyone, and there always needs to be a moody alpha!
Jaxon "Storm", I loved him the second his character was dropped in! Broody and protective, dom like, always putting his job first, but still pining after Lyric. I loved how the guys could tell that something was going to develop between him and Lyric and gave him the go-ahead to pursue it with all kinds of tips! Lyric was so feisty with him, and he always pushed her knowing exactly what she needed. Whether it be a fire lit inside of her or a hug!
-I run my fingers over her soft cheek.
"Do you need a spanking?" I ask, taunting her. I'm not sure I know what I hope she'll say. "Your guys gave me a couple of ideas to calm you down, that was at the top of the list."
"Yeah right. You're all talk"-
This pack was so open with each other. They accepted Saint when they noticed how much he loved Lyric and how completely at peace she felt when he was near her. They also accepted Storm when they realized how protective her was over Lyric and took a bullet for her!
I need to see more of Ravvi and his gifts!!!!
Saint- "Before I was even a man, I met the girl of my dreams. She was a bit broken. Desperate to be loved and seen. I was lonely. Busy trying to self-destruct. Two broken pieces made a whole. Then we added in all these other fuckers. And that's when our life truly began. We made a family. Turned a house into a home. Came upon another lost soul who needed us as much as we needed him. Gave him a baby brother. The bond sings, overflowing with a feeling of utter contentment."
January 31, 2023
I loved this contemporary human omegaverse duet by author Jillian West. It is full of angst, drama, steam, and romance. In this omnibus, we are treated with eight bonus scenes not found in the original books.
The whole pack is delicious, a mix of rock stars and security personnel, but I have a special thing for the sweet (and a bit domineering) beta Saint and the devil-may-care alpha Lachlan. We are given men that fit several tropes within the pack: friends to lovers, second chance, grumpy/sunshine, and a cinnamon roll MMC. Each of the guys brings something to the relationship that the FMC, Lyric, needs to feel complete.
Before Lyric gets packed up, she had never experienced a proper heat. I absolutely loved that there was a valid reason for Lyric to be taking heat suppressants – wanting to maintain her relationship with her beta boyfriend, Saint, without the need for an alpha. She felt that designations should not affect long-term commitments, and she loved Saint. Full Stop. It was only as that relationship faltered, and her suppressants started failing, that the need to find alphas arose, and time was fleeting before her heat set in.
It starts medium burn and quickly reaches inferno levels of heat – maintaining that intensity throughout and into the bonus scenes. This does not even include Lyric’s heat scenes, as she goes through several mini-heats before her big, coming off the suppressants-enhanced, heat. The s3x ranges from soft and romantic to hot and debased, but always consensual. One very hot chase scene stands out (but so many scenes could be mentioned here). This duet contains MF scenes as well as MFM and group scenes. There is also MM and MMF.
I highly recommend this completed duet. It has a neurodivergent FMC and explores several mental health and drug issues amongst all the smut. Plus, there is a stalker, so it also has a thriller feel. It really has everything, in a nice omegaverse package.
The whole pack is delicious, a mix of rock stars and security personnel, but I have a special thing for the sweet (and a bit domineering) beta Saint and the devil-may-care alpha Lachlan. We are given men that fit several tropes within the pack: friends to lovers, second chance, grumpy/sunshine, and a cinnamon roll MMC. Each of the guys brings something to the relationship that the FMC, Lyric, needs to feel complete.
Before Lyric gets packed up, she had never experienced a proper heat. I absolutely loved that there was a valid reason for Lyric to be taking heat suppressants – wanting to maintain her relationship with her beta boyfriend, Saint, without the need for an alpha. She felt that designations should not affect long-term commitments, and she loved Saint. Full Stop. It was only as that relationship faltered, and her suppressants started failing, that the need to find alphas arose, and time was fleeting before her heat set in.
It starts medium burn and quickly reaches inferno levels of heat – maintaining that intensity throughout and into the bonus scenes. This does not even include Lyric’s heat scenes, as she goes through several mini-heats before her big, coming off the suppressants-enhanced, heat. The s3x ranges from soft and romantic to hot and debased, but always consensual. One very hot chase scene stands out (but so many scenes could be mentioned here). This duet contains MF scenes as well as MFM and group scenes. There is also MM and MMF.
I highly recommend this completed duet. It has a neurodivergent FMC and explores several mental health and drug issues amongst all the smut. Plus, there is a stalker, so it also has a thriller feel. It really has everything, in a nice omegaverse package.
January 28, 2023
I read this duet when it was released as individual books, but this is worth checking out for added content! Make sure you check the TW - this has some dark elements.
Lyric Sinclair is a fabulous main character. She is neurodivergent, although the author doesn’t give a specific diagnosis. As a neurodivergent reader, I connected with Lyric on several levels and I appreciate how much thought went into her character traits.
The relationships that Lyric has and develops are complex and dynamic. Each man has space in the story to feel like a complete person outside of being a love interest. They have different relationships with each other that we get to witness as well, which I loved. Lyric also has female friends and I loved how much we got to see of those relationships in addition to the romances.
The overall story is compelling, with plenty of drama both within the romantic relationships and outside of them. The story builds nicely, with the pack growing along the way. This is a wonderful romantic suspense story that happens to also be an omegaverse. The designations play an important role in the plot, but it isn’t the only focus.
Because it *is* an omegaverse, we do get plenty of the fun stuff - spicy scenes that incorporate knots, heats, scents, and bites! I’m excited to read more from this universe.
Lyric Sinclair is a fabulous main character. She is neurodivergent, although the author doesn’t give a specific diagnosis. As a neurodivergent reader, I connected with Lyric on several levels and I appreciate how much thought went into her character traits.
The relationships that Lyric has and develops are complex and dynamic. Each man has space in the story to feel like a complete person outside of being a love interest. They have different relationships with each other that we get to witness as well, which I loved. Lyric also has female friends and I loved how much we got to see of those relationships in addition to the romances.
The overall story is compelling, with plenty of drama both within the romantic relationships and outside of them. The story builds nicely, with the pack growing along the way. This is a wonderful romantic suspense story that happens to also be an omegaverse. The designations play an important role in the plot, but it isn’t the only focus.
Because it *is* an omegaverse, we do get plenty of the fun stuff - spicy scenes that incorporate knots, heats, scents, and bites! I’m excited to read more from this universe.
Read
April 14, 2023I lost interest. There seemed to be so many partners that I was having a hard time tracking everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2023
4.5 stars - When I initially came across the Ruined Records duet, I was really impressed with how well written it was - especially since it was Jillian West’s debut. The omnibus is definitely a nice treat since us rabid readers get a little more of some of our favorite characters and a good glimpse into some developments in the third book of the series.
(As an aside, my first read through I didn’t realize that the heroine was written as being neurodivergent so it was interesting to read her character as being on the autism spectrum the second time through. I felt like this knowledge gave us a better understanding and another layer of depth into the main character.)
One of the main reasons I didn’t give this book the full five stars is because I felt like Lyric’s mother, Angel Rae, didn’t get the comeuppance she deserved and Johnny Kincaid didn’t get the jail time he deserved so they felt like loose ends that still needed to be tied up. Besides her mother being an awful human being who wanted publicity, why did she keep confronting Lyric? What did she ultimately want? Additionally, I felt like her drug use was sort of explained away as a numbing agent for situational depression and as a tool for artistic expression but she was using frequently enough that it doesn’t seem like it would have been easy to just stop. I wish the resolution of this issue had been delved into further, but I do appreciate that the bonus material explicitly states that she chose to quit taking drugs.
Overall, I would definitely say this is in the top three best omegaverse books (which all just happen to also be duets) ever written - up there with Kathryn Moon’s Lola and the Millionaires and Lola Rock’s Pack Darling. Jillian West has a lot of literary talent and I’ll definitely continue to read the books she writes.
(As an aside, my first read through I didn’t realize that the heroine was written as being neurodivergent so it was interesting to read her character as being on the autism spectrum the second time through. I felt like this knowledge gave us a better understanding and another layer of depth into the main character.)
One of the main reasons I didn’t give this book the full five stars is because I felt like Lyric’s mother, Angel Rae, didn’t get the comeuppance she deserved and Johnny Kincaid didn’t get the jail time he deserved so they felt like loose ends that still needed to be tied up. Besides her mother being an awful human being who wanted publicity, why did she keep confronting Lyric? What did she ultimately want? Additionally, I felt like her drug use was sort of explained away as a numbing agent for situational depression and as a tool for artistic expression but she was using frequently enough that it doesn’t seem like it would have been easy to just stop. I wish the resolution of this issue had been delved into further, but I do appreciate that the bonus material explicitly states that she chose to quit taking drugs.
Overall, I would definitely say this is in the top three best omegaverse books (which all just happen to also be duets) ever written - up there with Kathryn Moon’s Lola and the Millionaires and Lola Rock’s Pack Darling. Jillian West has a lot of literary talent and I’ll definitely continue to read the books she writes.
April 6, 2023
Books like this duet are the ones that are finally making me fall in love with the Omegaverse trope... I'll be honest, I didn't fall in love with the story or the characters from the start. The first few chapters were a little hard to get into, but once I was at chapter ten, the story truly grabbed me and wouldn't let go. While many omegaverse books are all about forming or finding a pack, with this duet the author managed to create a wonderful and original storyline, where the omegaverse trope is the cherry on top and not the chore of the story.
There is a lot I loved about this book. The emotions are well written, and while there are some heartbreaking moments involved, the story never becomes depressing. There is always a character adding hope, some lines creating light in the dark, the healing atmosphere of music, ... All of that ended up in an emotional storyline that I was truly invested in, without ever drowning in the emotions. The spin on the rockstar trope is one I deeply love, especially with the addition of some amazing bodyguards. While I'm not always a fan of protective harems, I truly love how these characters come together for Lyric. Their protectiveness never feels smothering, just caring and loving.
Even though all the men in Lyric's life have something special and unique, I'll admit Lachlan really stole my heart throughout this duet. I guess he's one of the first non-psycho characters ever I would like to add to my fictional harem... The author managed to give all these characters a certain dept to them I really enjoyed, and that helped me connect to them while reading their story.
I'm pretty certain I'll be checking out more work from this author in the future; and for those who still have to start I can highly recommend this duet!
There is a lot I loved about this book. The emotions are well written, and while there are some heartbreaking moments involved, the story never becomes depressing. There is always a character adding hope, some lines creating light in the dark, the healing atmosphere of music, ... All of that ended up in an emotional storyline that I was truly invested in, without ever drowning in the emotions. The spin on the rockstar trope is one I deeply love, especially with the addition of some amazing bodyguards. While I'm not always a fan of protective harems, I truly love how these characters come together for Lyric. Their protectiveness never feels smothering, just caring and loving.
Even though all the men in Lyric's life have something special and unique, I'll admit Lachlan really stole my heart throughout this duet. I guess he's one of the first non-psycho characters ever I would like to add to my fictional harem... The author managed to give all these characters a certain dept to them I really enjoyed, and that helped me connect to them while reading their story.
I'm pretty certain I'll be checking out more work from this author in the future; and for those who still have to start I can highly recommend this duet!
February 15, 2024
I seriously don't know how to rate this. For sheer entertainment value, this was a 4 star book. It had depth to the topics and the relationships had layers. Unfortunately the execution was definitely 3 stars.
The start was chaotic and didn't make a lot of sense. There were too many pack characters and I had trouble telling whose pov it was even with their name at the start of each chapter. 6 males, 1 female! It wasn't a straight-up erotica so there was a lot of character detail to get through.
There were definitely unnecessary side characters introduced that muddied the story. It needs a story editor and definitely some proofreading.
Omegaverse, reverse harem, mmfmmmm, m/m with only 2 pack members
See review by Irene Kiew for Left In Ruins for some great details
The start was chaotic and didn't make a lot of sense. There were too many pack characters and I had trouble telling whose pov it was even with their name at the start of each chapter. 6 males, 1 female! It wasn't a straight-up erotica so there was a lot of character detail to get through.
There were definitely unnecessary side characters introduced that muddied the story. It needs a story editor and definitely some proofreading.
Omegaverse, reverse harem, mmfmmmm, m/m with only 2 pack members
See review by Irene Kiew for Left In Ruins for some great details
January 31, 2023
This has bonus content!!!!
I have read this set of books probably five times sense it came out. I don't know if it's cuz I was going threw a breakup when I read it the first time but it was easy to relate to Lyric. She's weak at the beginning so skip it if you want a bad ass heroin from the jump off but you get sum killer character growth in these books.
It's character driven.
Read the triggers.
Mild OW Drama
No cheating
Mild MM only one couple it's off page with the heroines knowledge
No bullying
Grief depresion mental health convos.
Suicide warning before the books starts
The bonus content is every thing!!!!
I got hooked into this world and can't get enough
I have read this set of books probably five times sense it came out. I don't know if it's cuz I was going threw a breakup when I read it the first time but it was easy to relate to Lyric. She's weak at the beginning so skip it if you want a bad ass heroin from the jump off but you get sum killer character growth in these books.
It's character driven.
Read the triggers.
Mild OW Drama
No cheating
Mild MM only one couple it's off page with the heroines knowledge
No bullying
Grief depresion mental health convos.
Suicide warning before the books starts
The bonus content is every thing!!!!
I got hooked into this world and can't get enough
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
Wowie!
… so! I read two other books in this series first and loved them so much, I went back to “the beginning”.
—— Spoilers Ahead ——
Lyric’s story is HUGE and I’m giving my personal opinions on some of the facets (these are my opinions, not everyone has to agree). This duet was complicated but still a 5 star read. Overall, it was really heavy at times but also positive? I wouldn’t say there was exactly a rise and fall of an antagonist. Sure, the stalker, the ex, and the mother, but they kinda… fizzled. There was a long subplot of drug use and then it too just *stopped*. They created tension when needed but then nothing really happened beyond that.
Honestly, this had most of what an omegaverse is supposed to be. Growling, barking, knotty alphas and an omega with a nest (and mini nest) and wild moods and slick and all that. There was even some MM content to include a beta-shoulda-been-alpha character. I think my biggest issue is the feeling of displacement. Like, chapters would change and suddenly it would be days later. Or, getting knotted for the very first time and the POV changes just before it happens to one of the guys standing outside the door. There was so much that Lyric wasn’t saying - going so far that she was not even thinking to herself and it meant I was in the dark, kinda fumbling for what the heck was going on.
I love me some big packs but the late addition of Storm was way too late in the plot to feel cohesive. Also, the subplot of Love and her guys also being pack - with definite physical history but no romance? Mmmmm okay? I honestly feel the story could drop the trio and Storm and still feel just as complete. Even without them, we’ve got kinda off the walls Lach, broody Rook, emotional softie Callan, big gruff Griff, and beta soul mate Ryder. That’s PLENTY. The whole Dex subplot just made me uncomfortable - until 80% I thought it was going to be revealed that he was the actual stalker.
Also. On the subject of Rook. wtf? He’s pissed and broody and punchy - for like an hour and then he’s grovelling, also for an hour, and then boom. Happy cuddling in bed.
None of them really courted her?? Lyric just… kinda allows herself to be treated like… I don’t even have the words. Have some backbone girl! You’re an insanely talented musical prodigy with a voice that knocks socks off. OWN IT. I was disappointed that never developed into something healthy.
The biggest moments of wtf for me were removing us from the first knotting scene right in the middle, being out of Lyric’s head as her first heat - which she was scared of and that wasn’t really talked about - really hit, the switching of Lyric going from stuttering and terrified and then well spoken sassy to her mother and/or paparazzi, and all the moments of “she’s so frugal” but like… she’s living in a mansion penthouse for free with an eight person security team. How “nice” she was all the time was a little annoying. Like, the ex gf abused Callan for years. Allow her to experience the consequences?? Cool cool, she needs mental help - but it felt like a therapist reciting textbook rather than an emotional pivotal scene. Also, calling Ryder her soul mate when Lach is the one that “smells electric” - secret Jillian West speak for fated mate. Last one; Lach was all happy hunky dory to do drugs with her until suddenly he wasn’t and then they both quit just like that and everything is awesome? Zero consequences? And none of the mates did anything???
Oh and, the end content. The psychic kid?? Are super powers a thing in this series because that was way out of the blue? I get he’s supposed to be in another book maybe, but still. A 2-3 year old isn’t going to talk like he did, especially not one that has been neglected. Some of the end content could be put into better order so I’m not reading about a scene that I was already told the gist of pages back.
The only reason I’m writing all of this out is because, while there were a few frustrations, this duet was captivating and I finished it. I enjoyed it. I’m sure it’s going to stick with me for a while - and I write all this down because these are my thoughts. I don’t have anyone to discuss omegaverse with so I’m just… ah, well. Nobody has to agree with me and I don’t want to offend either - I rated the book 5 stars because I’m glad I read it and anyone who has read other books in the series will most likely like it too.
*** I know this was an earlier book. I can see the growth in narrative skill between this duet and the other two books I read later in the series so well done West for getting better and better!
… so! I read two other books in this series first and loved them so much, I went back to “the beginning”.
—— Spoilers Ahead ——
Lyric’s story is HUGE and I’m giving my personal opinions on some of the facets (these are my opinions, not everyone has to agree). This duet was complicated but still a 5 star read. Overall, it was really heavy at times but also positive? I wouldn’t say there was exactly a rise and fall of an antagonist. Sure, the stalker, the ex, and the mother, but they kinda… fizzled. There was a long subplot of drug use and then it too just *stopped*. They created tension when needed but then nothing really happened beyond that.
Honestly, this had most of what an omegaverse is supposed to be. Growling, barking, knotty alphas and an omega with a nest (and mini nest) and wild moods and slick and all that. There was even some MM content to include a beta-shoulda-been-alpha character. I think my biggest issue is the feeling of displacement. Like, chapters would change and suddenly it would be days later. Or, getting knotted for the very first time and the POV changes just before it happens to one of the guys standing outside the door. There was so much that Lyric wasn’t saying - going so far that she was not even thinking to herself and it meant I was in the dark, kinda fumbling for what the heck was going on.
I love me some big packs but the late addition of Storm was way too late in the plot to feel cohesive. Also, the subplot of Love and her guys also being pack - with definite physical history but no romance? Mmmmm okay? I honestly feel the story could drop the trio and Storm and still feel just as complete. Even without them, we’ve got kinda off the walls Lach, broody Rook, emotional softie Callan, big gruff Griff, and beta soul mate Ryder. That’s PLENTY. The whole Dex subplot just made me uncomfortable - until 80% I thought it was going to be revealed that he was the actual stalker.
Also. On the subject of Rook. wtf? He’s pissed and broody and punchy - for like an hour and then he’s grovelling, also for an hour, and then boom. Happy cuddling in bed.
None of them really courted her?? Lyric just… kinda allows herself to be treated like… I don’t even have the words. Have some backbone girl! You’re an insanely talented musical prodigy with a voice that knocks socks off. OWN IT. I was disappointed that never developed into something healthy.
The biggest moments of wtf for me were removing us from the first knotting scene right in the middle, being out of Lyric’s head as her first heat - which she was scared of and that wasn’t really talked about - really hit, the switching of Lyric going from stuttering and terrified and then well spoken sassy to her mother and/or paparazzi, and all the moments of “she’s so frugal” but like… she’s living in a mansion penthouse for free with an eight person security team. How “nice” she was all the time was a little annoying. Like, the ex gf abused Callan for years. Allow her to experience the consequences?? Cool cool, she needs mental help - but it felt like a therapist reciting textbook rather than an emotional pivotal scene. Also, calling Ryder her soul mate when Lach is the one that “smells electric” - secret Jillian West speak for fated mate. Last one; Lach was all happy hunky dory to do drugs with her until suddenly he wasn’t and then they both quit just like that and everything is awesome? Zero consequences? And none of the mates did anything???
Oh and, the end content. The psychic kid?? Are super powers a thing in this series because that was way out of the blue? I get he’s supposed to be in another book maybe, but still. A 2-3 year old isn’t going to talk like he did, especially not one that has been neglected. Some of the end content could be put into better order so I’m not reading about a scene that I was already told the gist of pages back.
The only reason I’m writing all of this out is because, while there were a few frustrations, this duet was captivating and I finished it. I enjoyed it. I’m sure it’s going to stick with me for a while - and I write all this down because these are my thoughts. I don’t have anyone to discuss omegaverse with so I’m just… ah, well. Nobody has to agree with me and I don’t want to offend either - I rated the book 5 stars because I’m glad I read it and anyone who has read other books in the series will most likely like it too.
*** I know this was an earlier book. I can see the growth in narrative skill between this duet and the other two books I read later in the series so well done West for getting better and better!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2023
A LOT better than I expected after my first impression of the first roughly 75 pages.
Things are a bit ... confusing in the book for a while. 42 pages in, I was fairly confused. Stuff is randomly going on, nothing is getting explained, random people are showing up, and envelopes are being passed over with no context... By page 74, a couple of things are clarified, but there's STILL a lot unanswered. It made me worried for the rest of the book, wondering if it was going to be skipping all over the place with random stuff happening with no explanations.
HOWEVER.
It gets MUCH better. Things slowly get answered throughout the book, and you basically learn truths and details along with the characters. It's actually pretty neat. You may have forgotten something happened earlier on, but then it gets mentioned casually later in the book, and you go, "Oh, yeah! That explains blah blah blah!"
This book is pretty lengthy, but it was fantastic. I couldn't get enough of the characters! The epilogues got a bit long. A few of them could have just been built into the actual story, I was getting to the point of considering closing the book before completing them all thinking I got the jist, but I'm glad I stuck out for the last one. It was great!
There is the VERY odd typo or error in punctuation throughout the book, but it's nothing distracting. With how many books I've read, it's bound to happen occasionally, especially in books this long.
There were a couple of other small things I kind of wanted to complain about, but like the author seemed to know, she always fixed them later! I wish something was explained better? It was. I wish a scene had been written? Give it time, it'll be there! What happens to character A and character B? It pops up, too! There were ONLY two people who didn't get an "ending" to that I really, really wish had one way or another. I guess three, though I suppose maybe the one was implied enough earlier. I'd be interested in hearing what the author imagined for them or what the results were of a particular interview that was done by a group of the more primary characters.
Things are a bit ... confusing in the book for a while. 42 pages in, I was fairly confused. Stuff is randomly going on, nothing is getting explained, random people are showing up, and envelopes are being passed over with no context... By page 74, a couple of things are clarified, but there's STILL a lot unanswered. It made me worried for the rest of the book, wondering if it was going to be skipping all over the place with random stuff happening with no explanations.
HOWEVER.
It gets MUCH better. Things slowly get answered throughout the book, and you basically learn truths and details along with the characters. It's actually pretty neat. You may have forgotten something happened earlier on, but then it gets mentioned casually later in the book, and you go, "Oh, yeah! That explains blah blah blah!"
This book is pretty lengthy, but it was fantastic. I couldn't get enough of the characters! The epilogues got a bit long. A few of them could have just been built into the actual story, I was getting to the point of considering closing the book before completing them all thinking I got the jist, but I'm glad I stuck out for the last one. It was great!
There is the VERY odd typo or error in punctuation throughout the book, but it's nothing distracting. With how many books I've read, it's bound to happen occasionally, especially in books this long.
There were a couple of other small things I kind of wanted to complain about, but like the author seemed to know, she always fixed them later! I wish something was explained better? It was. I wish a scene had been written? Give it time, it'll be there! What happens to character A and character B? It pops up, too! There were ONLY two people who didn't get an "ending" to that I really, really wish had one way or another. I guess three, though I suppose maybe the one was implied enough earlier. I'd be interested in hearing what the author imagined for them or what the results were of a particular interview that was done by a group of the more primary characters.
March 15, 2023
Dnf at 20%. This is very much a me thing, I don't care for drug use in my romance and this has both casual meth and cocaine use, and I learned I really like when the heroine comes into an established pack that has queer relationships in it, and this is not that on either count.
July 22, 2023
very good duet…with a few problems.
I really love Jillian West and her writing style. She writes terrific RH books. I absolutely love her Omegaverse books, and The Ruined Duet does not disappoint.
*TRIGGERS** these two books deal with VERY SERIOUS subject matter, and it does not shy away from presenting those issues honestly and sometimes painfully. This duet of Ruined, and Madness, with extended epilogues is very rough. It’s a hard journey to go on. If you can whether the difficult subject matter, then you absolutely must pick up this book. It deals with trauma and Anxiety Disorder, depression of the deepest kind, suicide, and suicidal thoughts, drugs and the effects of drugs. It shines the light on very traumatic subjects, and the pain when losing someone to suicide that you love/d whole-heartedly.
Jillian West gives us very relatable characters, even if it’s an Omegaverse world.
Lyric Sinclair is a rock “princess” - as she is the only daughter of Damian Sinclair, and Angel Rae two ICONIC rock stars who founded along with their friends, JJ and Donavan, the rock band, Madness. Damian Sinclair was a musical prodigy, and his life was devoted to his music, his creations, and his daughter, Lyric. Angel hated (and still hates her daughter), she’s a narcissist, who think she can do WHATEVER she wants and will do anything to stay a superstar. After Lyrics father, Damian commits suicide. He loved his daughter without measure but his demons were too many, Lyric (who is an omega) begins to fall into a deep depression (she was 13 when he died) now that he’s gone, her evil, horrible, mother completely ignores her but throws wild crazy parties (full of very older rock stars and questionable men) at their mansion almost every day! Lyric, who herself is a musical prodigy is also extremely sad, lonely, grieving for her father, and sinking fast. When one of her mother’s “friends” drugs her drink at a party and tries to rape her (she’s saved by another band member) she knows she can no longer live in her mother, the monsters house. She gets help to get into a prestigious music academy in London and leaves the US immediately for London. It’s in London that EVERYTHING changes. She meets a boy at her school/academy, named Ryder St. James a.k.a. Saint. Lyric a.k.a. Sinner and Ryder, become inseparable!! They fall madly in love and tour the world handing out money for charities - the money comes from Lyric, she received an inheritance, AND her fathers shares in the production/record company — making her stupidly wealthy!
After 5 years of total bliss, Lyric has made peace with (or at least she thinks she has) with her own demons that haunt her. And even goes through therapy with Ryder to help with her depression and extreme anxiety. Things are going well, but what goes up must fall down :( at the peak of their love they’re accosted by Marcus Lyric’s half-brother) and Reba (Ryder’s seriously total mental, ex-girlfriend). Ryder begins to get secretive with Lyric, then the lies start, telling her he has errands to run, when he’s really seeing Reba. The final nail in the coffin is when he calls out Reba’s name while he and Lyric are “getting it on.” It devastates her. It gets worse, because at that moment ,Marcus, who is now dating toxic crazy Reba, storm into Lyric’s and Ryders hotel. Reba plays on Lyric’s insecurities and demons, and convinces Lyric to “let Ryder go.” She loves him soooooo much that’s exactly what she does. She breaks up with him, and leaves the country totally broken hearted.
Fast forward five months and Lyric is spiraling! She taking hard core drugs to stay awake because she doesn’t want to sleep or be alone, and the Drugs are uppers. Her depression has taken her over, she’s lost without Ryder and devastated that he didn’t come after her - even if she left him - she imagined he’d still “chase her” if he loved her as much as he said he did. One night she goes to the roof of the skyscraper she lives in and just…loses it. She dances on the rail tempting fate to just let her slip and fall and end her pointless, agonizing, pain-filled, life. But “fate” has other plans and a handsome stranger “saves her” and then stays to talk to her, like REALLY talk to her. It’s incredibly refreshing and makes her brighten up. In addition JJ (part owner of ruined records, asks Lyric to work with a member of a well-known rock band who has all but imploded after the suicidal death of their band mate, and friend left them all crippled. Bryan their dead friend always worked with Callan Crews, his band mate (and secret lover) as Callan had a harpy girlfriend who made their life hell. JJ teams Callan up with Lyric and to the shock of all, they mesh perfectly together, writing brilliant songs together as their friendship builds into something more. They also bond through the grief they harbor. Turns out the handsome stranger Lachlan, and Callan are band mates, further complicating the situation, their other member, Rooker was the love of Lyric’s young life.
I really love Jillian West and her writing style. She writes terrific RH books. I absolutely love her Omegaverse books, and The Ruined Duet does not disappoint.
*TRIGGERS** these two books deal with VERY SERIOUS subject matter, and it does not shy away from presenting those issues honestly and sometimes painfully. This duet of Ruined, and Madness, with extended epilogues is very rough. It’s a hard journey to go on. If you can whether the difficult subject matter, then you absolutely must pick up this book. It deals with trauma and Anxiety Disorder, depression of the deepest kind, suicide, and suicidal thoughts, drugs and the effects of drugs. It shines the light on very traumatic subjects, and the pain when losing someone to suicide that you love/d whole-heartedly.
Jillian West gives us very relatable characters, even if it’s an Omegaverse world.
Lyric Sinclair is a rock “princess” - as she is the only daughter of Damian Sinclair, and Angel Rae two ICONIC rock stars who founded along with their friends, JJ and Donavan, the rock band, Madness. Damian Sinclair was a musical prodigy, and his life was devoted to his music, his creations, and his daughter, Lyric. Angel hated (and still hates her daughter), she’s a narcissist, who think she can do WHATEVER she wants and will do anything to stay a superstar. After Lyrics father, Damian commits suicide. He loved his daughter without measure but his demons were too many, Lyric (who is an omega) begins to fall into a deep depression (she was 13 when he died) now that he’s gone, her evil, horrible, mother completely ignores her but throws wild crazy parties (full of very older rock stars and questionable men) at their mansion almost every day! Lyric, who herself is a musical prodigy is also extremely sad, lonely, grieving for her father, and sinking fast. When one of her mother’s “friends” drugs her drink at a party and tries to rape her (she’s saved by another band member) she knows she can no longer live in her mother, the monsters house. She gets help to get into a prestigious music academy in London and leaves the US immediately for London. It’s in London that EVERYTHING changes. She meets a boy at her school/academy, named Ryder St. James a.k.a. Saint. Lyric a.k.a. Sinner and Ryder, become inseparable!! They fall madly in love and tour the world handing out money for charities - the money comes from Lyric, she received an inheritance, AND her fathers shares in the production/record company — making her stupidly wealthy!
After 5 years of total bliss, Lyric has made peace with (or at least she thinks she has) with her own demons that haunt her. And even goes through therapy with Ryder to help with her depression and extreme anxiety. Things are going well, but what goes up must fall down :( at the peak of their love they’re accosted by Marcus Lyric’s half-brother) and Reba (Ryder’s seriously total mental, ex-girlfriend). Ryder begins to get secretive with Lyric, then the lies start, telling her he has errands to run, when he’s really seeing Reba. The final nail in the coffin is when he calls out Reba’s name while he and Lyric are “getting it on.” It devastates her. It gets worse, because at that moment ,Marcus, who is now dating toxic crazy Reba, storm into Lyric’s and Ryders hotel. Reba plays on Lyric’s insecurities and demons, and convinces Lyric to “let Ryder go.” She loves him soooooo much that’s exactly what she does. She breaks up with him, and leaves the country totally broken hearted.
Fast forward five months and Lyric is spiraling! She taking hard core drugs to stay awake because she doesn’t want to sleep or be alone, and the Drugs are uppers. Her depression has taken her over, she’s lost without Ryder and devastated that he didn’t come after her - even if she left him - she imagined he’d still “chase her” if he loved her as much as he said he did. One night she goes to the roof of the skyscraper she lives in and just…loses it. She dances on the rail tempting fate to just let her slip and fall and end her pointless, agonizing, pain-filled, life. But “fate” has other plans and a handsome stranger “saves her” and then stays to talk to her, like REALLY talk to her. It’s incredibly refreshing and makes her brighten up. In addition JJ (part owner of ruined records, asks Lyric to work with a member of a well-known rock band who has all but imploded after the suicidal death of their band mate, and friend left them all crippled. Bryan their dead friend always worked with Callan Crews, his band mate (and secret lover) as Callan had a harpy girlfriend who made their life hell. JJ teams Callan up with Lyric and to the shock of all, they mesh perfectly together, writing brilliant songs together as their friendship builds into something more. They also bond through the grief they harbor. Turns out the handsome stranger Lachlan, and Callan are band mates, further complicating the situation, their other member, Rooker was the love of Lyric’s young life.
March 3, 2023
I would have given the first book 4 stars but the second book was so bad I am giving duet 2 stars.
First book
It took me a bit to get into this story, but then Rook comes on the scene and for some reason I was absolutely hooked from there on. Its hard to remember now why, but there is a ton of character development, they are all very different and well crafted. You start to fall in love with some of them.
However, as omegaverse this misses a ton of the marks while hitting a couple. The steamy scenes where good but largely not in an omegaverse way no raw primitive instinct driven rutting and heat for these books. Just some things that play with being omegaverse. It really bothered me that some of the time distinction is a huge deal, such as Lyric being an Omega and Ryder/Saint a beta, but most of the time the author doesn't bother to tell you what people are and your left confused. In general the omegaverse world building was poorly done.
Second Book
I really ended up hating this book it was extremely slow and you keep waiting for something to happen, for plots to move forward. By the end very little has happened some side stories that you thought were building to a climax fizzle and die or just go away. The sixth POV and the entire story involving this character was extremely unnecessary and worked on no level, taking away from the story versus enhancing it.
The Epilogue
WTF everything with that new character was strange and weird and completely out of nowhere.
Bonus Chapter
Didn't read this book made me hate reading why would I continue that torture.
First book
It took me a bit to get into this story, but then Rook comes on the scene and for some reason I was absolutely hooked from there on. Its hard to remember now why, but there is a ton of character development, they are all very different and well crafted. You start to fall in love with some of them.
However, as omegaverse this misses a ton of the marks while hitting a couple. The steamy scenes where good but largely not in an omegaverse way no raw primitive instinct driven rutting and heat for these books. Just some things that play with being omegaverse. It really bothered me that some of the time distinction is a huge deal, such as Lyric being an Omega and Ryder/Saint a beta, but most of the time the author doesn't bother to tell you what people are and your left confused. In general the omegaverse world building was poorly done.
Second Book
I really ended up hating this book it was extremely slow and you keep waiting for something to happen, for plots to move forward. By the end very little has happened some side stories that you thought were building to a climax fizzle and die or just go away. The sixth POV and the entire story involving this character was extremely unnecessary and worked on no level, taking away from the story versus enhancing it.
The Epilogue
WTF everything with that new character was strange and weird and completely out of nowhere.
Bonus Chapter
Didn't read this book made me hate reading why would I continue that torture.
September 5, 2024
In book one, Lyric's character quickly wins you to her side. She feels things so deeply, and she cares so much for others that it often times causes her to put their needs above her own. Unfortunately, her instinct of flight means she runs from things instead of facing them. She recognizes it and works on doing better, which endears her even more to us. I knew Saint would eventually pop back up in her life, but in the meantime, Lachlan and Crew help mend Lyric's heart, and Griffin, oh, he stole the show for me. His prickly self melted like butter only for her, and his understanding and patient care helped Lyric become a healthier version of herself. Rook needs a swift kick in the buns, but he'll come around. I saw the ending from a mile away and was excited to see how that panned out!
In the second book, Saint uses his charm, wit, and genuine love for Lyric to wear down not only her, but her new fellas as well. And the tension with him and Crew is fabulous. I love watching each guy completely give in to the pull of Lyric. Rook finally gets his head right and joins the program. Now, I couldn't quite connect with Storm. It just felt forced, instead of natural as it did with the others. But I love all the growth we see in Lyric, and the guys too. Lyric deserves to be smothered with all the love from each of them, and it was great for them to join together and make one happy family.
I LOVE all the extended epilogues. Big fan of those!!
In the second book, Saint uses his charm, wit, and genuine love for Lyric to wear down not only her, but her new fellas as well. And the tension with him and Crew is fabulous. I love watching each guy completely give in to the pull of Lyric. Rook finally gets his head right and joins the program. Now, I couldn't quite connect with Storm. It just felt forced, instead of natural as it did with the others. But I love all the growth we see in Lyric, and the guys too. Lyric deserves to be smothered with all the love from each of them, and it was great for them to join together and make one happy family.
I LOVE all the extended epilogues. Big fan of those!!
February 1, 2023
Again, I love this duet. But I don't want to write the reviews again, because I already did that, when I read the former versions of the duet in May 2022.
So, if you want to know what I wrote in the final review for both books—here:
- Review “Madness”
So, after re-reading the book, and especially the added content and epilogues, I have to change some parts of the old review. First of all, the extra scenes were awesome. I loved the epilogues. In the previous version, it was too short for me and I wanted more content. And I got exactly that. I liked, too, that Lyrics condition was explained better. In the previous version, I didn't realize that she was autistic/neurodivergent. A lot of things make more sense when you know that.
So, I loved it. And the experience was different now. Considering, I have read more books of Jillian West and know about Cove and her family. So, you have an entire different view of the story. But still, the core of the previous review remains. The story doesn't change, it just has more content and substance with the new facts.
I'm looking forward to the next books and to the characters who are going to get a story. Of course Cove and Ravvi and Co. I'm interested to see what happens with Marcus Gaffney.
There are a lot of interesting things that are coming up.
So, if you want to know what I wrote in the final review for both books—here:
- Review “Madness”
So, after re-reading the book, and especially the added content and epilogues, I have to change some parts of the old review. First of all, the extra scenes were awesome. I loved the epilogues. In the previous version, it was too short for me and I wanted more content. And I got exactly that. I liked, too, that Lyrics condition was explained better. In the previous version, I didn't realize that she was autistic/neurodivergent. A lot of things make more sense when you know that.
So, I loved it. And the experience was different now. Considering, I have read more books of Jillian West and know about Cove and her family. So, you have an entire different view of the story. But still, the core of the previous review remains. The story doesn't change, it just has more content and substance with the new facts.
I'm looking forward to the next books and to the characters who are going to get a story. Of course Cove and Ravvi and Co. I'm interested to see what happens with Marcus Gaffney.
There are a lot of interesting things that are coming up.
March 4, 2023
Hard but good
This was a good book or books really since it contains both, but it does handle some heavy topics. That being said I think this author handles and incorporated those heavy topics well. It's also a really good omega verse why choose romance. This story is filled with ups and downs the good and the bad just like any real journey. There's some humor sprinkled through out especially with Lachlan and Saint. There's also sweet moments, was ones angry ones and plenty of hot ones. The spicy times are wonderful some much variety (including m/m, group activities). I also really loved that this author included a couple group activities I feel like you don't see a ton of in this genre. This feels like an ever growing universe with plenty more stories I hope we get to see in the future. I would love to see the second generation get stories especially the twins, raavi and damien. While this book does have many layers, and the pack definitely has to work for their HEA it's definitely worth the roller coaster of emotions to get there. The extended epilogue also really gives you plenty to enjoy with in their HEA too. The ending couldn't have been any better and I can't wait for what's next. Good book would recommend.
This was a good book or books really since it contains both, but it does handle some heavy topics. That being said I think this author handles and incorporated those heavy topics well. It's also a really good omega verse why choose romance. This story is filled with ups and downs the good and the bad just like any real journey. There's some humor sprinkled through out especially with Lachlan and Saint. There's also sweet moments, was ones angry ones and plenty of hot ones. The spicy times are wonderful some much variety (including m/m, group activities). I also really loved that this author included a couple group activities I feel like you don't see a ton of in this genre. This feels like an ever growing universe with plenty more stories I hope we get to see in the future. I would love to see the second generation get stories especially the twins, raavi and damien. While this book does have many layers, and the pack definitely has to work for their HEA it's definitely worth the roller coaster of emotions to get there. The extended epilogue also really gives you plenty to enjoy with in their HEA too. The ending couldn't have been any better and I can't wait for what's next. Good book would recommend.
February 13, 2023
The Ruined Records Duet
This one was a big boy but, oh my was it so good! I absolutely adored Lyric as a character and I related to her more than I ever have related to someone before. This book follows Lyrics who ends up leaving her long-time boyfriend and going back to the states. There is a family drama, and a little relationship drama due to miscommunication, and yet there were a whole lot of comfy moments. Definitely, check content warnings as there is talk as well as the usage of drugs, and family abuse, but still has a cozy feel.
Now, the only little nugget I did not care for as much was that in the beginning you are left in the dark a bit just like some of the characters which later on I actually enjoyed since I was learning with the other main characters of the book.
Jillian West did an amazing job portraying a neurodivergent fmc lead as well are working through the different struggles Lyric had in her life due to previous experiences. There is so much more to say but, if you like spice and omegaverse but, with a touch more emotion then this is for you! I will definitely be re-reading this book.
This one was a big boy but, oh my was it so good! I absolutely adored Lyric as a character and I related to her more than I ever have related to someone before. This book follows Lyrics who ends up leaving her long-time boyfriend and going back to the states. There is a family drama, and a little relationship drama due to miscommunication, and yet there were a whole lot of comfy moments. Definitely, check content warnings as there is talk as well as the usage of drugs, and family abuse, but still has a cozy feel.
Now, the only little nugget I did not care for as much was that in the beginning you are left in the dark a bit just like some of the characters which later on I actually enjoyed since I was learning with the other main characters of the book.
Jillian West did an amazing job portraying a neurodivergent fmc lead as well are working through the different struggles Lyric had in her life due to previous experiences. There is so much more to say but, if you like spice and omegaverse but, with a touch more emotion then this is for you! I will definitely be re-reading this book.
February 1, 2023
I am forever ruined by this duet. 😉 but in the best way possible. When this first came out I devoured the first book, and the second was just as good. I was excited to read them all again, but this time all in one go. The storyline is compelling and there is plenty of drama within. I love the way the story builds and how the relationships develop. It made it that much more good.
Lyric is such a cute FMC and I love the way the relationships develop with the men. One thing I really like is the different relationships each character has with each other. They are all so different, and it was nice to see that out of the romance side of the pack. I loved Lyrics friendships as well it made me love her stories so much more.
Spice? Yassss!! So good! I couldn’t get enough. Although I will say I loved that it didn’t take away from the story, it was enough and flowed well with the way the story went.
Overall, this book was amazing. I loved every second of it. I highly recommend this book to anyone in the mood for omegaverse. This was so worth it. Please make sure to check TW.
Lyric is such a cute FMC and I love the way the relationships develop with the men. One thing I really like is the different relationships each character has with each other. They are all so different, and it was nice to see that out of the romance side of the pack. I loved Lyrics friendships as well it made me love her stories so much more.
Spice? Yassss!! So good! I couldn’t get enough. Although I will say I loved that it didn’t take away from the story, it was enough and flowed well with the way the story went.
Overall, this book was amazing. I loved every second of it. I highly recommend this book to anyone in the mood for omegaverse. This was so worth it. Please make sure to check TW.
April 19, 2023
3.5 stars
The Ruined Records Duet is an Omegaverse Reverse Harem romance about Lyric and her growing pack.
It’s angsty in places and deals with heavy topics like: suicide, depression, drug use, abuse, neglect, stalking, abortion, attempted rape, etc.
It’s an okay RH. But it’s an expanding harem so the character and relationship development along the way lacks some depth. But overall they are a pretty loving and sweet group.
You can see my reviews for each book below.
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Left in Ruins (3.5 stars)
(Read 4/17/2023 to 4/18/2023)
You can read my review for this story on it's individual book page here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
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Madness (3.5 stars)
(Read 4/18/2023 to 4/19/2023)
You can read my review for this story on it's individual book page here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
The Ruined Records Duet is an Omegaverse Reverse Harem romance about Lyric and her growing pack.
It’s angsty in places and deals with heavy topics like: suicide, depression, drug use, abuse, neglect, stalking, abortion, attempted rape, etc.
It’s an okay RH. But it’s an expanding harem so the character and relationship development along the way lacks some depth. But overall they are a pretty loving and sweet group.
You can see my reviews for each book below.
-----------------------------------
-----------------------------------
Left in Ruins (3.5 stars)
(Read 4/17/2023 to 4/18/2023)
You can read my review for this story on it's individual book page here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
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Madness (3.5 stars)
(Read 4/18/2023 to 4/19/2023)
You can read my review for this story on it's individual book page here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2023
Lyric Sinclair is an omega who spent most of her childhood in the limelight due to her parents being world famous rock stars.
Lyric turned away from a life of fame and preferred to donate her time to helping musicians and charities. This was done with her beta boyfriend, Saint, by her side. Their lives take a complicated turn and Lyric does what omegas do best, she runs. Unfortunately for Lyric, she runs straight into old hurts, ugly truths, and an industry she was trying to stay away from. Lyric must accept the reality that she can’t run forever, and she can’t hide from who she is.
I read Left in Ruins and Madness back in 2022, and I absolutely ADORED them. The main character is a neurodivergent musician, I’m a neurodivergent musician. It was a truly emotional experience to read books where I felt represented, as most books about autistic people tend to infantilise them.
I am so happy to be a part of @jillianwestauthor arc team for Ruined Records Duet omnibus. I didn’t think I could love it more, but reading it all for a second time brought me so much joy. This version features additional content and extended epilogues, and these brought so much to the characters and story.
Lyric turned away from a life of fame and preferred to donate her time to helping musicians and charities. This was done with her beta boyfriend, Saint, by her side. Their lives take a complicated turn and Lyric does what omegas do best, she runs. Unfortunately for Lyric, she runs straight into old hurts, ugly truths, and an industry she was trying to stay away from. Lyric must accept the reality that she can’t run forever, and she can’t hide from who she is.
I read Left in Ruins and Madness back in 2022, and I absolutely ADORED them. The main character is a neurodivergent musician, I’m a neurodivergent musician. It was a truly emotional experience to read books where I felt represented, as most books about autistic people tend to infantilise them.
I am so happy to be a part of @jillianwestauthor arc team for Ruined Records Duet omnibus. I didn’t think I could love it more, but reading it all for a second time brought me so much joy. This version features additional content and extended epilogues, and these brought so much to the characters and story.
February 20, 2023
Omegaverse...Omegaverse...Omegaverse
Trigger Warnings:
MM,MF,MFM
Stalker
Knot
Biting
Grief Depression
Suicide Warning
Drug Issues
Tropes:
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Cinnamon Roll MMC
This is a Why Choose Romance book
Lyric is the daughter of famous rockstars and the trouble seem to go hand in hand with that title. Lyric life is hard to deal with being that she's neurodivergent because of her parents fame she feels alone and her mental health goes down hill even with the support of her bodyguards she still runs from her problems instead of facing them head on. Lyric meets men who are a big part of her growth and healing in this book. They're all Alpha's who love her fiercely with only her well being in mind. Now you know what is in an Omegaverse a lot of group scenes , heat, knots, biting and drama. We get all thee above in this book and I was living for it all.
Trigger Warnings:
MM,MF,MFM
Stalker
Knot
Biting
Grief Depression
Suicide Warning
Drug Issues
Tropes:
Friends to Lovers
Second Chance
Grumpy/Sunshine
Cinnamon Roll MMC
This is a Why Choose Romance book
Lyric is the daughter of famous rockstars and the trouble seem to go hand in hand with that title. Lyric life is hard to deal with being that she's neurodivergent because of her parents fame she feels alone and her mental health goes down hill even with the support of her bodyguards she still runs from her problems instead of facing them head on. Lyric meets men who are a big part of her growth and healing in this book. They're all Alpha's who love her fiercely with only her well being in mind. Now you know what is in an Omegaverse a lot of group scenes , heat, knots, biting and drama. We get all thee above in this book and I was living for it all.
February 13, 2023
When I first read this duet - I was obsessed.
Reading it again, with the bonus content, has me gobsmacked. In my opinion it’s close to perfect.. it hits all my buttons.
Rooting, scent marking, whining, knotting.
Big alpha men. Bonds. Group scenes. & so much more!
The Author treats each character with so much respect and uses their trials as lessons. Why? Is the focus of this duet.
The characters are brought together in a time of need. Holding each other together through recent and past losses. I felt every emotion watching these characters battle their sadness and find a reason to continue.
I am in no way picking a favorite.. but Griffin Stone. You are the best. With the filthiest mouth. Biggest heart.
Yeah I’m picking a favorite.
If you enjoy reading this book - continue in the Ruined Records world with ‘No Omega Needed’ which is Baby Loves story.
Reading it again, with the bonus content, has me gobsmacked. In my opinion it’s close to perfect.. it hits all my buttons.
Rooting, scent marking, whining, knotting.
Big alpha men. Bonds. Group scenes. & so much more!
The Author treats each character with so much respect and uses their trials as lessons. Why? Is the focus of this duet.
The characters are brought together in a time of need. Holding each other together through recent and past losses. I felt every emotion watching these characters battle their sadness and find a reason to continue.
I am in no way picking a favorite.. but Griffin Stone. You are the best. With the filthiest mouth. Biggest heart.
Yeah I’m picking a favorite.
If you enjoy reading this book - continue in the Ruined Records world with ‘No Omega Needed’ which is Baby Loves story.
January 28, 2023
This duet is freaking AMAZING!!!! I'm so glad the books are now packaged in the omnibus edition with BONUS CONTENT!!!
If you've read this before still grab it for the new content. If you've never read it grab this amazing omegaverse collection and dive into their story! You won't regret it. This duet remains one of my favorites out of all the omegaverse books I've read.
Lyric, Ryder, Lachlan, Griffin, Callan, Rook, and Storm's journey to becoming a pack is wonderfully told. There's laughter, tears, and high 🌶🌶🌶🌶 content. Yes keep in mind there are triggers: drug use, mentions of suicide, mentions of attempted SA, abusive parent, stalking, and other woman drama. Once they get past all of it though their HEA left me smiling.
If you've read this before still grab it for the new content. If you've never read it grab this amazing omegaverse collection and dive into their story! You won't regret it. This duet remains one of my favorites out of all the omegaverse books I've read.
Lyric, Ryder, Lachlan, Griffin, Callan, Rook, and Storm's journey to becoming a pack is wonderfully told. There's laughter, tears, and high 🌶🌶🌶🌶 content. Yes keep in mind there are triggers: drug use, mentions of suicide, mentions of attempted SA, abusive parent, stalking, and other woman drama. Once they get past all of it though their HEA left me smiling.
January 28, 2023
“The Ruined Records Duet” is an omegaverse like no other! The mental health representation in this novel is spectacular, and West handles such sensitive topics with grace, tact, and above all, respect.
Unlike other ov’s, this story is gritty, real, and raw. Each character has a story and these problems aren’t solved by introducing a boy. Instead, each character leans on another to overcome their issues, and by the end of the book they’re stronger for it. This isn’t your typical love story, and if you’re looking for characters to relate to you’ve come to the right place.
Thank you to West for taking the time to write a love story with real emotions and real reactions. I saw bits of myself in each character and loved that the journey they go on felt authentic. I can’t wait for more!
Unlike other ov’s, this story is gritty, real, and raw. Each character has a story and these problems aren’t solved by introducing a boy. Instead, each character leans on another to overcome their issues, and by the end of the book they’re stronger for it. This isn’t your typical love story, and if you’re looking for characters to relate to you’ve come to the right place.
Thank you to West for taking the time to write a love story with real emotions and real reactions. I saw bits of myself in each character and loved that the journey they go on felt authentic. I can’t wait for more!
January 30, 2023
Geez where do I start?! This duet was phenomenal. A slow/medium burn why choose with an amazing omega and her harem of men she gathers over the two books. Our FMC Lyric who is the ( daughter of rock) her dad was a famous rockstar goes through so much (check your trigger warnings) but she always comes out stronger in the end and Between all of her men they begin to complete her and help her get over her past and a crazy stalker too and move into the future. I lived watching lyric and her men slowly fall in love and accept each other. If you want a slightly dark but still sweet in the romance omegaverse this is the duet for you, Jillian west creates the best characters and I love her writing style. So pick this book up you definitely won’t regret it
January 31, 2023
I received a arc copy of this book from Jillian and her team. This was my first omegaverse book experience and also my first book from Jillian and I really enjoyed it! I love that we have a neurodivergent FMC and I feel as is she captures her well. This is a why choose romance and all of the MMC within this harem are balanced with their own unique personalities traits. 👌🏻 it’s a slowwwwwww burn but the spice leading up to the spice is 🌶️ half the time I felt as frustrated with the guys as Lyric was while waiting for them to finally get around to doing the deed. Griffin is my fav and he also uses my favorite pet name “little one” 🥵 I’m really excited to see what else Jillian puts out especially from this world!
January 31, 2023
Lyric Sinclair is the daughter of two rockstars in one of the most famous bands of their generation. Growing up in the spotlight wasn’t very kind to her and she really just wants to fade into the background, write her music, and live a normal life.
She finds herself alone, having spilt up with the love of her life, with no direction or purpose. Until she meets the rockstar on the roof, the sensitive alpha songwriter, the man who broke her trust, and the serious, protective bodyguard.
This duet is one of my favorite Omegaverse series. Set in the world of rockstars and media storms. The story sucks you in and won’t let you go. Told in multiple points of view. The bonus content in this boxed set is fabulous. You get a deeper view into Lyric’s happily ever after.
She finds herself alone, having spilt up with the love of her life, with no direction or purpose. Until she meets the rockstar on the roof, the sensitive alpha songwriter, the man who broke her trust, and the serious, protective bodyguard.
This duet is one of my favorite Omegaverse series. Set in the world of rockstars and media storms. The story sucks you in and won’t let you go. Told in multiple points of view. The bonus content in this boxed set is fabulous. You get a deeper view into Lyric’s happily ever after.
February 1, 2023
What an epic story set in ABO. I love Lyric as omega but the girl has issues but is trying to work through them. She's got her bodyguards and along come some new friends she connects with. They don't know it from the start though but figure it out. Now Lyric has a stalker that needs dealing with. Second book: Lyric has an job to do, 6 shows with Ryder and the guys. Can she work past pain and understand more? Can she let Ryder in again? How about Jaxon, a new security guy? Can he love after bring hurt? Can he believe Lyric is true and doesn't beat around the bush? The stalker is still there and her mother is holding things in hand to try and ruin new found love and family. Can the pack heal each other? An emotional rollercoaster but I can't wait to read more by this author.
February 5, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥
🎶Omegaverse
🎶Why Choose
🎶Second Chance
🎶Forced Proximity
Ruined Records Duet contains Left In Ruins and Madness. I read both of these when they first came out and I loved reading it again with the added content. I loved it even more the second time around! Lyric is an FMC that will always stick with me. She goes through so much throughout this duet. It is an emotional journey for her and all of her men. And the guys are so different from each other but also perfect for Lyric. They all go through their own growth as individuals and as a pack. I’m happy I got to read this and highly recommend. If you like omegaverse then you will love this one! Check trigger warnings before reading, as it has several!
🔥🔥🔥🔥
🎶Omegaverse
🎶Why Choose
🎶Second Chance
🎶Forced Proximity
Ruined Records Duet contains Left In Ruins and Madness. I read both of these when they first came out and I loved reading it again with the added content. I loved it even more the second time around! Lyric is an FMC that will always stick with me. She goes through so much throughout this duet. It is an emotional journey for her and all of her men. And the guys are so different from each other but also perfect for Lyric. They all go through their own growth as individuals and as a pack. I’m happy I got to read this and highly recommend. If you like omegaverse then you will love this one! Check trigger warnings before reading, as it has several!
February 10, 2023
Still such an amazing read and with all the extras!!
A sweet Omegaverse but check your triggers. Self-unalive is a main topic. Due to personal experience, this is huge for me but Jillian West covers it so well in how it effects everyone. It's very well written. There is also plenty of substance use but it definitely gets to be less as the book goes on.
Lyric has some major self-esteem issues but she is sweet, kind, loving. I love how she lives very frugally but loves to give to those with less. "If you want to be better, then do better. Break the cycle." All of the guys that become Lyric's life are so amazing. They each love her with every breath. I love the back and forth between Lyric and Storm. They are hilarious. And I still feel the same...can I have a Saint...Please!!
A sweet Omegaverse but check your triggers. Self-unalive is a main topic. Due to personal experience, this is huge for me but Jillian West covers it so well in how it effects everyone. It's very well written. There is also plenty of substance use but it definitely gets to be less as the book goes on.
Lyric has some major self-esteem issues but she is sweet, kind, loving. I love how she lives very frugally but loves to give to those with less. "If you want to be better, then do better. Break the cycle." All of the guys that become Lyric's life are so amazing. They each love her with every breath. I love the back and forth between Lyric and Storm. They are hilarious. And I still feel the same...can I have a Saint...Please!!
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