Alicia's Book Blog: Ruin Review

I'm not your typical girl. I've been running away from the memories that haunt me for so long that depression has become my only comfort. I was content in the darkness...until Wes Michels offered to be my light.

I didn't know that time wasn't my ally -- that every second that ticked past was one step closer to the end of something that was beginning to mean the end of myself. He tried to warn me. He promised me all he was able to offer--each moment as it came--but it would never be enough.

Sometimes when you think it's the end, it's only the beginning. Wes thought he could save me, but in giving me everything, he ruined me. Because after one kiss, one touch, I couldn't--I wouldn't ever be the same.

And from that moment on, his heartbeat became my own.

5 Stars

***Mild Spoiler Alert***

Did this book Ruin me? No. Rachel Van Dyken totally tore my heart to pieces! Wow! I’m at a loss for words, so let me try to string together some coherent thoughts. I’m just…speechless!

Ruin is told in the dual perspective of Weston (Wes) and Kiersten. I love books like this. I love being able to get into both of the characters’ heads. However, sometimes it can get confusing if it isn’t done well. This isn’t one of those books; the author did an amazing job.

Kiersten has lost both of her parents and is living in depression. Her uncle urges her to go to college in hopes that she will start living again. She becomes fast friends with her roommate, Lisa. I loved Lisa. She’s spunky, fun, honest, quirky, and supportive. She’s everything that a lead’s best friend should be. Not only has Kiersten become friends with Lisa, but she’s also best friends with her cousin, Gabe. Gabe is everything Lisa is, but throw in sweet and protective and you’ve got a great and friend all rolled into a delicious tattooed package. (Hint, hint Rachel Van Dyken…I totally wouldn’t mind ready a story about Gabe in the future.)

Kiersten and Wes stumble into each other’s lives with the intent of only being friends. She is dealing with depression and he has his own major issue to deal with. Kiersten comes up with a list to help her start living again and, of course, Wes enthusiastically agrees to help. And, like any great romance, they fall in love. As Wes’ love and friendship bring Kiersten out of her depression, his issue only grows and becomes more problematic to their relationship. It seems that love may not be enough to pull them through.

I cried my eyes out. I cussed. I was so close to throwing my Kindle (but thankfully refrained.) This book wasn’t anything like I was expecting. It’s a powerful, heartbreaking story about love and loss and the strength and healing that can be gained by them.

And after you read this amazing story, be sure to check out the extended prologue for Ruin by clicking here.