ARC Review of Exquisite Ruin by AdriAnne May

Exquisite Ruin by AdriAnne May

The cover may give you YA fantasy vibes, but this book is all grown up.

Sadaré wakes up in a labyrinth with no memory, but a very hot, very grumpy daemon for company. She quickly learns that while he might be her reluctant ally, he doesn't like her very much and that the only way through this maze they're both trapped in is forward and down.

Tropes / What to Expect:

• Enemies to Lovers

• Forced Proximity

• Amnesia

• Magic Through Pain

• Kinky

• BDSM

• Gods

• Witches

• Morally Grey FMC

• Morally Grey MMC

• Monster Romance

Though no specific Greek gods are mentioned, the vibes are heavily Greek mythology. This is quite a new, and adult, take on The Myth of Theseus and the Minotaur.

There's not too much I can say without spoiling the huge twist at the end, but this is not your typical romantasy.

I really enjoyed this book, but it definitely won't be for everyone. Please mind the trigger warnings listed at the beginning of the book as there is some sensitive subject matter referenced throughout.

I would highly recommend this book for anyone who:

• loves Greek mythology retellings

• enjoys BDSM in their books

• is looking for something different from the typical romantasy

• enjoys monster romances

• wants a book that explores complex themes and relationships

Additionally, this book has some great rep including a bi MMC and a non-binary side character and parent!

Exquisite Ruin is out on March 25th and you can pick up a copy here.

Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the ARC and allowing me to provide an ARC review of Exquisite Ruin by AdriAnne May!