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A review by paradisebibliophile
Ruthless Empire by Rina Kent
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Another middle-of-the-road read for me. I didn’t love it, didn’t hate it. I did feel like this book was trying a little too hard to be something it’s not. The whole “Doll Maker/Master” twist added a layer that felt more crime thriller than dark romance, and honestly, it didn’t really land.
What also made it harder to enjoy was the dynamic between the main couple. The toxicity in their relationship felt excessive and not always justified by the plot or character development. At times, it was more draining than dramatic. Overall, Ruthless Empire had some ambition but ended up feeling muddled. Not the worst in the series, but definitely not a standout.
What also made it harder to enjoy was the dynamic between the main couple. The toxicity in their relationship felt excessive and not always justified by the plot or character development. At times, it was more draining than dramatic. Overall, Ruthless Empire had some ambition but ended up feeling muddled. Not the worst in the series, but definitely not a standout.