A review by helloscandal
A Ruin of Roses by K.F. Breene

slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

1.0

The author claims in the dedication that "this book is for the readers. You wanted more spice. You wanted crass. You wanted me to go wild. You got it" but written as if a teen was instructed to write an "adult" book thinking adding modern swear words, references to sex toys, and orgies somehow makes a book "adult". Finley, the FMC, is obnoxious with her "not like other girls" energy. The added "speaks to an imaginary audience" is clearly added for comedic effect and portray her as quirky but feels unbearable in it's execution. Nyfain, the MMC, is gruff and unlikeable with no presence to make Finley's sudden attraction and "realizing she likes him" to make sense. As such, the romance feels forced and since this is only volume 1 of a series, major plot points are not resolved by the end. Almost 400 pages of bad writing and poorly written characters. There are better spicy romance fantasies out there that I do not recommend wasting your time.