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Brutal Beauty #3
Bound by Ruin
and when nothing remains but smoke and ash, she will cloak herself in ruin and learn to breathe in the dark
Bound by Ruin is book three of the Brutal Beauty series. Why choose, Russian mafia, dark romance.
Bound by Ruin is book three of the Brutal Beauty series. Why choose, Russian mafia, dark romance.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2024
86 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Misti Wilds
12 books277 followersMisti Wilds is a lover of all things romance, especially when the spice is habanero hot and the men are morally gray and dangerous. She devours angst like her favorite M&M cookies--all at once with no regrets. When she isn't writing why choose romance, she can be found floating in the lake with her favorite sun hat or playing video games while surrounded by Squishmallows. She lives in Southern USA with her number one fans (an adoring husband and two precious pups).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
May 30, 2025
~ Rebel’s smile glints in the flashing lights, his sharp canines making him appear as wild on the outside as he is within. “You look good with murder in your eyes, baby.” ~
I WAS BLUSHING THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE BOOK…MY GOODNESS.
Very spicy hehe just a warning. The danger is addicting. Thank you for the opportunity to read the arc!
I WAS BLUSHING THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE BOOK…MY GOODNESS.
Very spicy hehe just a warning. The danger is addicting. Thank you for the opportunity to read the arc!
July 8, 2025
4.5⭐️ 4.5🌶
These books have been deliciously hot. After everything that's happened up to this point, I thought we were making excellent progress in this one! I do believe that Celia has come to realize that Rage, Rebel, and Ruin have her best interests at heart. She has come to terms with the situation and is starting to realize that she does care for them and possibly one more. I have loved getting to know each of the guys and their different types of love languages. It makes for an interesting/entertaining read. The ending in this book is going to be something to discover in the next book. Some serious questions are going to need to be answered and a whole lot of groveling. Although, Celia might be a better woman than I because I don't know if I have that kind of forgiveness!
These books have been deliciously hot. After everything that's happened up to this point, I thought we were making excellent progress in this one! I do believe that Celia has come to realize that Rage, Rebel, and Ruin have her best interests at heart. She has come to terms with the situation and is starting to realize that she does care for them and possibly one more. I have loved getting to know each of the guys and their different types of love languages. It makes for an interesting/entertaining read. The ending in this book is going to be something to discover in the next book. Some serious questions are going to need to be answered and a whole lot of groveling. Although, Celia might be a better woman than I because I don't know if I have that kind of forgiveness!
May 28, 2025
*Reverse Harem
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st- PoV
*Mafia
*Resistant FMC
*Obsessed MMCs
*Internal drama
*Established Harem (4)
*Mid Burn
*Book 3/4
Betrayal burns deep 😣
I love that the author has extended this into a series and confirmed that Thanatos is part of the harem and there will be his book after this, feel the brothers definitely need his calmer composure and more level head for balance! But anyway back to this book - it picks up immediately after the explosion in the last one and poor Ruin 😢 the poor guy had really been though it due to his father and it doesn’t get any easier in this one 😔 we see him battle with his inner reservations and seek out the comfort Celia brings 😍 we also see his selflessness for his brothers 😮
Rage and Rebel are determined to contribute to Celia’s dreams of having a baby and they’re all certainly coming together more as a unit….especially with Thanatos finally letting go of his stubbornness 😅 and Celia seems to have fully accepted her role as Bratva wife and the core of steel she has only burns brighter! However their future is uncertain with the men’s fathers hanging over them especially as it appears he’s openly after Celia now 😖 can everyone be trusted or is there more at play here?!!
*Contemporary
*Multi-1st- PoV
*Mafia
*Resistant FMC
*Obsessed MMCs
*Internal drama
*Established Harem (4)
*Mid Burn
*Book 3/4
Betrayal burns deep 😣
I love that the author has extended this into a series and confirmed that Thanatos is part of the harem and there will be his book after this, feel the brothers definitely need his calmer composure and more level head for balance! But anyway back to this book - it picks up immediately after the explosion in the last one and poor Ruin 😢 the poor guy had really been though it due to his father and it doesn’t get any easier in this one 😔 we see him battle with his inner reservations and seek out the comfort Celia brings 😍 we also see his selflessness for his brothers 😮
Rage and Rebel are determined to contribute to Celia’s dreams of having a baby and they’re all certainly coming together more as a unit….especially with Thanatos finally letting go of his stubbornness 😅 and Celia seems to have fully accepted her role as Bratva wife and the core of steel she has only burns brighter! However their future is uncertain with the men’s fathers hanging over them especially as it appears he’s openly after Celia now 😖 can everyone be trusted or is there more at play here?!!
June 24, 2025
She might be ruining me, too.
I'm rating this 3.5⭐ but rounding it up to 4⭐. I anxiously waited for this book after that cliffhanger in Tempted to Rebel. I enjoyed it, but I honestly wanted more.
I loved how Celia has become protective of her men and defended her relationship like a mama bear. Getting more insight into Ruin's and Thanatos' thoughts was also a treat. I just think that at this point, they should've had a more solid plan against the guys' father because they're supposed to be mafia with a lot of resources and connections, so how come this guy can get around murdering people and not getting caught, right?
💞 THE MCs
Celia — At first, I was worried that Celia would be unreasonable and hysterical, but thankfully, she got a hold of herself and realized what she needed to do to protect her new family. She needs to be logical and become an asset instead of someone the men need to keep protecting. I loved seeing how all in she is now, instead of being lukewarm about the whole relationship. That scene with her mother? *chef's kiss* Toxic people are toxic people, regardless of whether they are family, and sometimes it's better if you just cut them out of your life for your sanity.
Rebel — is still his playful, flirty self who cannot keep his hands off Celia. He is still my favorite because for me he's the one who appreciates Celia and understands her needs the most, and it works the other way as well because Celia is a Rebel tamer. Such a simp, a good golden retriever MMC. Such a "good boy" iykwim. 🤭
Thanatos — is now my 2nd favorite because Than gives some good pining. He can't help but be drawn to Celia and it's freaking mutual but he still wouldn't let himself give in. Ugh! Get with the program, Riot!
Ruin — His thoughts are interesting, but not as psycho as I expected. He has finally let Celia see under his mask, and I loved it. The brothers are even surprised by how much he has changed for the better. The baby of the family, everyone is protective of him, but I have faith he can handle himself.
Rage — My only thought about Rage is, fvcking finally! I used to see him as the leader of the group, but with Than in the picture, he has given up some of the control, and I appreciate that. He still has that overprotective instinct to lock Celia somewhere to "protect" her, but thankfully, he's not letting those thoughts win. He also struggles a bit with sharing Celia with his brothers, but he just wants his family to be happy, so he's adjusting. Growth, Rage? About time.
Now, I just really need them to get rid of that vermin once and for all. I am so ready for their HEA and for them to get started with their dream family. Also, can we have some group scene, please? 👀🤭
✍🏻 RATINGS
OVERALL RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Really Liked It
SWOON SCORE: 💘💘💘 Cute Enough to Keep
SPICE LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Hot and Explicit
Did I laugh? Yes, mostly with Rebel’s antics.
Did I cry? No.
Do I recommend? Yep, absolutely.
♥♥♥
Genre: Contemporary, Adult
POV: Multi, 1st Person
TROPES: dark romance, why choose/reverse harem, mafia
~ Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this advanced reader copy! I received this for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily. ~
I'm rating this 3.5⭐ but rounding it up to 4⭐. I anxiously waited for this book after that cliffhanger in Tempted to Rebel. I enjoyed it, but I honestly wanted more.
I loved how Celia has become protective of her men and defended her relationship like a mama bear. Getting more insight into Ruin's and Thanatos' thoughts was also a treat. I just think that at this point, they should've had a more solid plan against the guys' father because they're supposed to be mafia with a lot of resources and connections, so how come this guy can get around murdering people and not getting caught, right?
💞 THE MCs
If I’m going to protect the people I love, I need more than a secondhand gun and a few self-defense lessons. I need to learn how to put a bastard down. No more tears. No more second-guessing. No more relying on others to keep me safe. This life is brutal, and the only way we’re all going to make it out alive is by being ruthless.
Celia — At first, I was worried that Celia would be unreasonable and hysterical, but thankfully, she got a hold of herself and realized what she needed to do to protect her new family. She needs to be logical and become an asset instead of someone the men need to keep protecting. I loved seeing how all in she is now, instead of being lukewarm about the whole relationship. That scene with her mother? *chef's kiss* Toxic people are toxic people, regardless of whether they are family, and sometimes it's better if you just cut them out of your life for your sanity.
I glance back at Rebel from over my shoulder. “You coming?”
“In a minute,” he murmurs, still staring at my ass. “I want to watch you walk away.”
Rebel — is still his playful, flirty self who cannot keep his hands off Celia. He is still my favorite because for me he's the one who appreciates Celia and understands her needs the most, and it works the other way as well because Celia is a Rebel tamer. Such a simp, a good golden retriever MMC. Such a "good boy" iykwim. 🤭
Until Celia came along, I hadn’t touched a woman in longer than I can remember. Now, she’s the only person I crave.
Thanatos — is now my 2nd favorite because Than gives some good pining. He can't help but be drawn to Celia and it's freaking mutual but he still wouldn't let himself give in. Ugh! Get with the program, Riot!
Slowly, I lift my fingers to her hair and weave them through the silky strands, knowing that I’m dirtying her, understanding that I’m ruining her, but unable to help it. She might be ruining me, too.
Ruin — His thoughts are interesting, but not as psycho as I expected. He has finally let Celia see under his mask, and I loved it. The brothers are even surprised by how much he has changed for the better. The baby of the family, everyone is protective of him, but I have faith he can handle himself.
“I could make up every single thing I’ve ever done to hurt you, and it still wouldn’t be enough.” His eyes slide closed. “I want to earn you, Celia… if you’ll let me.”
Rage — My only thought about Rage is, fvcking finally! I used to see him as the leader of the group, but with Than in the picture, he has given up some of the control, and I appreciate that. He still has that overprotective instinct to lock Celia somewhere to "protect" her, but thankfully, he's not letting those thoughts win. He also struggles a bit with sharing Celia with his brothers, but he just wants his family to be happy, so he's adjusting. Growth, Rage? About time.
Now, I just really need them to get rid of that vermin once and for all. I am so ready for their HEA and for them to get started with their dream family. Also, can we have some group scene, please? 👀🤭
✍🏻 RATINGS
OVERALL RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Really Liked It
SWOON SCORE: 💘💘💘 Cute Enough to Keep
SPICE LEVEL: 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Hot and Explicit
Did I laugh? Yes, mostly with Rebel’s antics.
Did I cry? No.
Do I recommend? Yep, absolutely.
♥♥♥
Genre: Contemporary, Adult
POV: Multi, 1st Person
TROPES: dark romance, why choose/reverse harem, mafia
~ Thank you to BookSirens and the author for this advanced reader copy! I received this for free, and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily. ~
June 9, 2025
First of all, this might be the first book I’ve finished in one sitting this year! And honestly, it didn’t even take me 8 hours. Once I started, I physically could not stop. Misti had me in a chokehold from page one. Ruin has been one of the most mysterious, guarded characters in this entire series and finally getting to unpack his trauma, understand his pain, and see him start to open up was definitely eye opening. Ruin snuck into my heart and firmly claimed that #2 spot (Rebel will always be my fave 😌), but Ruin… he came for my soul in this book. The ending?! EXCUSE ME?!?! Misti, girl, how DARE you drop that and then make us wait until WINTER for Born to Riot?? I’m seriously about to put myself in a self-induced coma just to time-jump into release day because I. CAN’T. COPE. 😭💀
If you’re already deep in the Brutal Beauty universe, don’t even think about skipping this one! It’s emotional, raw, steamy, and completely addictive. And if you haven’t started this series yet? What are you doing with your life?! Go fall in love with these broken, dangerous, ride-or-die boys immediately (or don't - more for me 😉).
If you’re already deep in the Brutal Beauty universe, don’t even think about skipping this one! It’s emotional, raw, steamy, and completely addictive. And if you haven’t started this series yet? What are you doing with your life?! Go fall in love with these broken, dangerous, ride-or-die boys immediately (or don't - more for me 😉).
May 28, 2025
I’ve been waiting anxiously for Bound by Ruin after that cliffhanger Tempted to Rebel left me with,so when i saw the ARC on BookSirens,i couldn’t snatch it up quick enough.
What i saw,to my relief,was that Ruin and Rebel came out of the fire relatively ok.
And what followed gave me hope…..Ruin was opening up to Celia,allowing her to see more who he was.
Even Thanatos,aka Riot,got involved…..not that he admitted he had feelings for her yet….but he started training her so she could defend herself when she needed to.
They all agreed on the fact that their father needed to be stopped,and the only way to do that,was to kill him.
What they had trouble with though,was the fact that Celia wanted to be part of the hunt,but she wouldn’t take no for an answer.
To my horror,Bound by Ruin ended on a cliffhanger that has me biting my nails, yet again!
This series still has me in it’s grip,i’m still holding my breath for what will happen next.
Everyone is showing growth,even if Rebel continues to….rebel,but that’s who he is.
Celia has accepted she’s where she wants to be,and she’s accepted who she needs to be.
Rage may have trouble sharing,but he knows that’s what Celia needs from him.
Ruin is showing himself,without his mask,and is opening up to Celia in every way that counts.
Riot is slowly starting to accept why he needs to be close to Celia,even if he doesn’t think he deserves it.
That cliffhanger,though……i need answers!!!!
What i saw,to my relief,was that Ruin and Rebel came out of the fire relatively ok.
And what followed gave me hope…..Ruin was opening up to Celia,allowing her to see more who he was.
Even Thanatos,aka Riot,got involved…..not that he admitted he had feelings for her yet….but he started training her so she could defend herself when she needed to.
They all agreed on the fact that their father needed to be stopped,and the only way to do that,was to kill him.
What they had trouble with though,was the fact that Celia wanted to be part of the hunt,but she wouldn’t take no for an answer.
To my horror,Bound by Ruin ended on a cliffhanger that has me biting my nails, yet again!
This series still has me in it’s grip,i’m still holding my breath for what will happen next.
Everyone is showing growth,even if Rebel continues to….rebel,but that’s who he is.
Celia has accepted she’s where she wants to be,and she’s accepted who she needs to be.
Rage may have trouble sharing,but he knows that’s what Celia needs from him.
Ruin is showing himself,without his mask,and is opening up to Celia in every way that counts.
Riot is slowly starting to accept why he needs to be close to Celia,even if he doesn’t think he deserves it.
That cliffhanger,though……i need answers!!!!
June 4, 2025
First of all, Misti, we now have virtual beef over that cliff hanger. I'm holding a grudge. You can't drop a bombshell and waltz away with that last line! RUDE. But omg this book low key made me feral. Getting to be in Ruin's head more this round and figuring out how his little traumatized mind works was both fascinating and utterly heartbreaking. He needs around 50 blankets and enough hugs to cure the world's depression. Getting to see how Celia grows with Ruin and navigates his less than typical approach to romance was amazing and I loved every second of it. Also reading about how the boys all grew closer and became the dream team was a blast. The banter is 10/10 phenomenal and Rebel is one sassy S.O.B. I adore him. Rage has blossomed a lot from where he started and I'm so proud of him. Thanatos is a true wildcard and I've loved him since he first appeared as Riot in the previous series. Each man brings a piece to the puzzle and they all fit with Celia spectacularly, offering her just what she needs to grow and heal. I'm going to be foaming at the mouth by the time Born to Riot releases.
June 2, 2025
OMG!!! I’m ready to toss this book across the room!! Understand cliffhanger but why sooooo long wait!!!!! Without spoilers each book get better and this one is no exception!!!! Love this book!!!! Can’t wait for the final book!!!
May 27, 2025
Sorry, but this one really disappointed me.
Half of the book felt so random and boring, and just when it finally started getting interesting… it ended😭😭😭😭
The last two books had way more intensity and actual character growth.
But here? The only parts that felt worth reading were a few scenes between Celia and Ruin.
I honestly can’t believe this is the third book and there’s still so much missing. Like?? We should’ve been way deeper into the plot by now
Half of the book felt so random and boring, and just when it finally started getting interesting… it ended😭😭😭😭
The last two books had way more intensity and actual character growth.
But here? The only parts that felt worth reading were a few scenes between Celia and Ruin.
I honestly can’t believe this is the third book and there’s still so much missing. Like?? We should’ve been way deeper into the plot by now
June 2, 2025
I'm addicted to this series! After Rage and Rebel it was finally time to be Ruined!
The fourth story in the Brutal Beauty series (including the prequel Brutal Beauty).
Celia's first encounter with the brothers Rage, Rebel and Ruin started in their club Midnight, after receiving an exclusive invitation to a masked event (book: Brutal Beauty).
In Claimed by Rage the story continued and we learned more about Celia's past, about her biggest desire and about her longing for a normal life.
Where Rage was the unhinged, over-possessive, obsessive, dark man, with rage boiling under the surface, and Rebel the funloving, goofy brother with a devil-may-care attitude, Ruin is the dark one, the one hiding behind a mask, not showing his face or his feelings. He is the one struggling with relationships.
In the next book, Tempted by Rebel, the story focused on Rebel and picked up where the first book ended .. with a cage as per Rage. Rebel is of course the one setting her free and Celia opens up to him.
We learned more about the fourth brother, Thanatos. He is also present in this book, Bound by Ruin. The last edition to this series will be focussing on Thanatos, also known as Riot.
In this book, the focus is on Ruin, the youngest brother and the most complicated one. The book starts right where the second book ended on a thriller cliffhanger!
After being injured, Ruin drops his mask for Celia and finally starts opening up to her. He is the one that suffered the most from his traumatic childhood. The child that was not loved or even liked by his own Father. The one that got hurt immensely.
The relationships between Rage, Rebel, Ruin and Celia are deepening with every book. They still have their own opinions, their disagreements and their fights, but they are growing closer.
Thanatos is becoming a more important part and Celia is attracted to him. Ruin is the one seeing the sparks between Thanatos and Celia and he is also the one making them act on it.
I'm happy I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The final chapter to this series is coming. Hopefully all their wishes will come true and it will be a happy ending for all of them.
The book ends with another cliffhanger and this cliffhanger definately calls for a Riot!
The fourth story in the Brutal Beauty series (including the prequel Brutal Beauty).
Celia's first encounter with the brothers Rage, Rebel and Ruin started in their club Midnight, after receiving an exclusive invitation to a masked event (book: Brutal Beauty).
In Claimed by Rage the story continued and we learned more about Celia's past, about her biggest desire and about her longing for a normal life.
Where Rage was the unhinged, over-possessive, obsessive, dark man, with rage boiling under the surface, and Rebel the funloving, goofy brother with a devil-may-care attitude, Ruin is the dark one, the one hiding behind a mask, not showing his face or his feelings. He is the one struggling with relationships.
In the next book, Tempted by Rebel, the story focused on Rebel and picked up where the first book ended .. with a cage as per Rage. Rebel is of course the one setting her free and Celia opens up to him.
We learned more about the fourth brother, Thanatos. He is also present in this book, Bound by Ruin. The last edition to this series will be focussing on Thanatos, also known as Riot.
In this book, the focus is on Ruin, the youngest brother and the most complicated one. The book starts right where the second book ended on a thriller cliffhanger!
After being injured, Ruin drops his mask for Celia and finally starts opening up to her. He is the one that suffered the most from his traumatic childhood. The child that was not loved or even liked by his own Father. The one that got hurt immensely.
The relationships between Rage, Rebel, Ruin and Celia are deepening with every book. They still have their own opinions, their disagreements and their fights, but they are growing closer.
Thanatos is becoming a more important part and Celia is attracted to him. Ruin is the one seeing the sparks between Thanatos and Celia and he is also the one making them act on it.
I'm happy I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The final chapter to this series is coming. Hopefully all their wishes will come true and it will be a happy ending for all of them.
The book ends with another cliffhanger and this cliffhanger definately calls for a Riot!
May 27, 2025
This dark mafia romance series only gets better and better with each book as the characters grow closer, the danger intensifies, the steam becomes steamier, and the tension escalates. Rage, Rebel, Ruin, and Thanatos (AKA Riot) have had different dynamics with Celia from the beginning, which has made the uneven progression of their inevitable passionate relationships interesting to watch. As with Rebel in Tempted to Rebel, we learned a lot more about Ruin in this book while he grew closer to Celia and learned to not only trust but also love her in his own way. I loved reading about his earlier trauma and his continuing reactions to that trauma because it helped me understand his unusual actions and reasoning better. However, with multiple POVs, we also learned more about Celia and all the brothers, whose adoration of and devotion to Celia are deepening as she starts to accept her place in their lives and love them in return. After that tantalizing and unbelievable cliffhanger, considering that I thought this would be the end of their story and I'd have all my answers by now, I am so excited to read Born to Riot and see Celia and her mafia men resolve all their issues (including overcoming Rage, Rebel, Ruin, and Thanatos's terrible dad) and get the life together they all want and deserve after all they've been through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2025
Meeting the man behind the mask
So this one starts right where we needed it to because lets be honest we were dying with that cliffhanger. Though there are a lot of injuries from this incident.
Celia finally gets to see Ruin unmasked. While the reason it happens is not great this is a huge step forward between her and Ruin. Ruin will finally allow himself to get closer to Celia and yes he does finally lose that V-card (lets be honest we knew it was inevitable so I wouldn't call this a spoiler).
Ruin deserves so much better than he ever got from his father. I absolutely love the bonds between the brothers and how they look out for each other. There is a really sweet scene with Ruin and Thanatos that is unexpected and absolutely perfect.
This book of course ends on another cliff hanger and I can't wait to see Riot come to fruition. I hope their father gets everything he deserves. These boys deserve to be free from him permanently. I also can't wait to see how the relationships evolve more.
So this one starts right where we needed it to because lets be honest we were dying with that cliffhanger. Though there are a lot of injuries from this incident.
Celia finally gets to see Ruin unmasked. While the reason it happens is not great this is a huge step forward between her and Ruin. Ruin will finally allow himself to get closer to Celia and yes he does finally lose that V-card (lets be honest we knew it was inevitable so I wouldn't call this a spoiler).
Ruin deserves so much better than he ever got from his father. I absolutely love the bonds between the brothers and how they look out for each other. There is a really sweet scene with Ruin and Thanatos that is unexpected and absolutely perfect.
This book of course ends on another cliff hanger and I can't wait to see Riot come to fruition. I hope their father gets everything he deserves. These boys deserve to be free from him permanently. I also can't wait to see how the relationships evolve more.
June 5, 2025
I came across Misti by accident and was drawn into her shout for ARC readers with an awesome description of this series.
I can never understand why I love reverse harem but honestly this is some of the best reverse harem stuff I’ve read. Morally grey? Babe the red flags are a-waving with these boys and I’m so glad to get to see more of ruins story, because I was gagging for it in the first two books 🤣
The writing is impeccable and I can really visualise every scene (can I suggest piercings for the next book Misti? 👀) these boys are down bad for the FMC and show it in all of the best and also deeply concerning ways!
The cliffhanger has made me angry at Riot but I also know deep down it’s probably not as it seems (right? Right?!)
Anyone who loves a morally grey group, and gang/mafia/etc vibe, this is for you!! Dive in because the waters warm
I can never understand why I love reverse harem but honestly this is some of the best reverse harem stuff I’ve read. Morally grey? Babe the red flags are a-waving with these boys and I’m so glad to get to see more of ruins story, because I was gagging for it in the first two books 🤣
The writing is impeccable and I can really visualise every scene (can I suggest piercings for the next book Misti? 👀) these boys are down bad for the FMC and show it in all of the best and also deeply concerning ways!
The cliffhanger has made me angry at Riot but I also know deep down it’s probably not as it seems (right? Right?!)
Anyone who loves a morally grey group, and gang/mafia/etc vibe, this is for you!! Dive in because the waters warm
May 29, 2025
I was highly anticipating this book and it did not disappoint! I read it in one sitting.
Am I sad about another cliffhanger? Yep.
Am I mad that it’s because Thanatos is the focus of book 4? Nope! But he better have some tricks up his sleeve after that ending…
Ruin felt more like a person in this book, if that makes sense. He was less of a monster and more of someone that Celia can connect with and love. The trauma he endured and the damage done to him, mentally and physically, has wrecked him. But, he seems to be letting the light in a little, even if he does still scare everyone once in a while lol
Highly recommend if you like:
Bratva ~ Reverse Harem ~ Childhood Trauma ~
Breeding Kink / Pregnancy Struggles ~ Fierce FMC~
Family Drama ~ Knife play
Am I sad about another cliffhanger? Yep.
Am I mad that it’s because Thanatos is the focus of book 4? Nope! But he better have some tricks up his sleeve after that ending…
Ruin felt more like a person in this book, if that makes sense. He was less of a monster and more of someone that Celia can connect with and love. The trauma he endured and the damage done to him, mentally and physically, has wrecked him. But, he seems to be letting the light in a little, even if he does still scare everyone once in a while lol
Highly recommend if you like:
Bratva ~ Reverse Harem ~ Childhood Trauma ~
Breeding Kink / Pregnancy Struggles ~ Fierce FMC~
Family Drama ~ Knife play
June 1, 2025
The cliffhanger at the end of Tempted to Rebel had me jumping into Bound by Ruin at full speed. I felt like I enjoyed this one on a deeper level (starting part-way through Tempted to Rebel), likely because the FMC has finally stopped fighting the guys at every turn (but don’t worry, there’s still tension and angst) and the MMCs have reigned in their crazy just a little bit. The entire book is waiting for the big bad to happen so I was in a constant state of anxiety and anticipation. This trilogy has turned into a four-book series, but I am completely on board with that because it feels like organic evolution and I would’ve expected this to happen based on what we know about the characters. The cliffhanger was another doozy and I can’t wait for Born to Riot!
May 25, 2025
I’m loving this series so much, and I was so pleased when I discovered that one of the brothers had shouted in the author’s mind that he needed to be involved with Celia too and so there is going to be another booked. This book was so hot, the spice exploded exponentially as the brothers joined Celia’s harem. Ruin, after the fire at the boutique became more vulnerable and softer, when he and Celia were together at the gala was beautiful.
There were some heartbreaking moments too, especially when Celia meets up with her ex and his new wife. I’m sure Celia’s vile, evil hearted mother had something to do with the seating arrangements.
The ending exploded out of nowhere, and I’m holding my breath that Celia and her men get the happy ending they all deserve.
There were some heartbreaking moments too, especially when Celia meets up with her ex and his new wife. I’m sure Celia’s vile, evil hearted mother had something to do with the seating arrangements.
The ending exploded out of nowhere, and I’m holding my breath that Celia and her men get the happy ending they all deserve.
May 27, 2025
Bound by Ruin is book 3 and it takes off from where the cliffhanger ends in book 2. There’s so much pain, trauma, and suffering in Ruin’s life all caused by his father. It’s no wonder that he struggles to make connections, but Celia’s touch and soft strength is becoming necessary to him. I absolutely adore these men and their obsession with Celia: she’s their heart, their passion, and their reason to live. Ruin’s kink fits in with his brothers and she is mesmerized by his intensity! Misti Wilde continues to play with my emotions: cliffhanger!! I want Celia and her men to have a beautifully brutal HEA!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 25, 2025
Bound By Ruin
Brutal Beauty Book 3
By Misti Wilds
🖤 A Dark Mafia Romance
🥀 Why Choose
🖤 A Masked MMC
🥀 A Golden Retriever MMC
🖤 A Broody DOM MMC
🥀 Broken but feisty FMC
🖤 Age Gap
Celia and her men are back and on the hunt to end the man that has tried to destroy them in this third instalment of Brutal Beauty and let me just say it has NOT disappointed 🥵
They might even be open to letting a 4th in 😉 or will he completely trash his chances?
This book brings heat in all the ways 🔥 and I am here for it 🙌
The way these men have evolved 😍 and Celia? Girl has finally picked up her crown 🙌👑
I cannot wait for the next book after the total cliffhanger that has left me shook!
Bound by Ruin releases May 26th 😘🖤
Brutal Beauty Book 3
By Misti Wilds
🖤 A Dark Mafia Romance
🥀 Why Choose
🖤 A Masked MMC
🥀 A Golden Retriever MMC
🖤 A Broody DOM MMC
🥀 Broken but feisty FMC
🖤 Age Gap
Celia and her men are back and on the hunt to end the man that has tried to destroy them in this third instalment of Brutal Beauty and let me just say it has NOT disappointed 🥵
They might even be open to letting a 4th in 😉 or will he completely trash his chances?
This book brings heat in all the ways 🔥 and I am here for it 🙌
The way these men have evolved 😍 and Celia? Girl has finally picked up her crown 🙌👑
I cannot wait for the next book after the total cliffhanger that has left me shook!
Bound by Ruin releases May 26th 😘🖤
May 27, 2025
I have fell in love with this series so hard that I am dreading it ending.
I love all of the characters and the boys - swoon!
I don't usually go for dark romance that often but I am so glad that I chose to read this one. I have devoured all three of these books and am silently hoping that the fourth will be out soon!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rage, Rebel, Ruin & Riot have carved a piece of my heart out for themselves.
All I can say is, if you like reverse harem, dark romance and mafia books, then give this one a chance. It will blow you away!
I love all of the characters and the boys - swoon!
I don't usually go for dark romance that often but I am so glad that I chose to read this one. I have devoured all three of these books and am silently hoping that the fourth will be out soon!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rage, Rebel, Ruin & Riot have carved a piece of my heart out for themselves.
All I can say is, if you like reverse harem, dark romance and mafia books, then give this one a chance. It will blow you away!
May 27, 2025
Things Are Turning Up!!!
Celia’s boutique is in flames, the Bratva brothers are bleeding, and the mask finally comes off—literally. Ruin steps into the spotlight, giving us angst, vulnerability, and *serious* heat. Celia and her men aren’t just surviving—they’re claiming power, love, and each other. The spice level is volcanic, the emotions hit hard, and the ending? Another soul-crushing cliffhanger.
Dark. Addictive. Obsessively unputdownable.
**5 stars. Celia’s harem is growing—and so is the danger.**
Celia’s boutique is in flames, the Bratva brothers are bleeding, and the mask finally comes off—literally. Ruin steps into the spotlight, giving us angst, vulnerability, and *serious* heat. Celia and her men aren’t just surviving—they’re claiming power, love, and each other. The spice level is volcanic, the emotions hit hard, and the ending? Another soul-crushing cliffhanger.
Dark. Addictive. Obsessively unputdownable.
**5 stars. Celia’s harem is growing—and so is the danger.**
May 28, 2025
Woah what a ride! I was so happy to find that our favorite damaged brother is still with us! This book gives you a deeper look into the past of the dark and twisty brothers and even made me quirk a brow at how much I'm coming to like and understand Thanatos and the way he protects his family. Once again we are left on a cliff hanger and I can't wait to read the conclusion of this wild ride! They all deserve the happily ever after that's coming to them, no matter the trauma it takes to get there!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2025
Bound by Ruin, the third book in the Brutal Beauty series (fourth if you count the prequel novella) was even better than the first two!
We amp up the game at the relationships level as well as the plot, with more action and danger.
Really loved the new dynamic between the MMCs, and I’m living the character evolution of the FMC.
Cannot wait for the next and what I believe will be the last book on this series, it really is everything I adore in dark romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
We amp up the game at the relationships level as well as the plot, with more action and danger.
Really loved the new dynamic between the MMCs, and I’m living the character evolution of the FMC.
Cannot wait for the next and what I believe will be the last book on this series, it really is everything I adore in dark romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 30, 2025
I hope your ready!!
Right away I was immersed into the story because it follows after the previous.
With more danger, suspense, some truly emotional moments, and more spice.
There was also more character growth and deepening connections between Celia and the men. Some more than others of course.
This was such a great continuation. I gotta say I'm pretty excited we're getting a fourth book, even though this one ends on another cliffhanger!
Right away I was immersed into the story because it follows after the previous.
With more danger, suspense, some truly emotional moments, and more spice.
There was also more character growth and deepening connections between Celia and the men. Some more than others of course.
This was such a great continuation. I gotta say I'm pretty excited we're getting a fourth book, even though this one ends on another cliffhanger!
May 30, 2025
Bound by Ruin was a good book and an excellent addition to the Brutal Beauty series. I like seeing the relationship with Celia and her three or should I say, four men, evolve. This book explored more of Ruin, and I was glad to see his tortured soul make a connection. I also liked seeing Thanatos evolve as a character. I am ready to read his story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 25, 2025
~ arc review
so we finally get some ruin time with celia, and i’m not disappointed 🧎🏼♀️ he’s so romantic i just can’t
thanatos is also finally and slowly getting into the picture, and i love how he gets worked up and have these huge ass fights with celia lol
rebel is sweet and horny and rage is always as asshole but a devoted one, at least.
this was a good book, had some good banter and fun… it focused more on the relationship side of things, but i would’ve liked more emphasis on the bigger plot too. hence my 4 stars.
so we finally get some ruin time with celia, and i’m not disappointed 🧎🏼♀️ he’s so romantic i just can’t
thanatos is also finally and slowly getting into the picture, and i love how he gets worked up and have these huge ass fights with celia lol
rebel is sweet and horny and rage is always as asshole but a devoted one, at least.
this was a good book, had some good banter and fun… it focused more on the relationship side of things, but i would’ve liked more emphasis on the bigger plot too. hence my 4 stars.
May 27, 2025
I'm excited to be back with Celia and her men. We jump in right where the previous one left off. They work out a plan to try and lure out their father. Thanatos is unsure of how to navigate his feedings and where he belongs in the dynamic of the group. I did enjoy the character growth with Ruin, I loved seeing the relationship grow stronger between him and Celia. That cliffhanger, I need the next one asap.
May 27, 2025
I’m bummed we have to wait for one more book to find closure but happy Thanos also gets to be happy too. I didn’t know thanos was the missing piece until his truly showed how selfless he is. Being a parent at a young age to his brothers and still think of their feelings before your own.
But another cliff hanger, it keeps the suspense going. Enjoying the ride and hoping we have a baby in the next book finally because she deserves it. Ready for the next book.
But another cliff hanger, it keeps the suspense going. Enjoying the ride and hoping we have a baby in the next book finally because she deserves it. Ready for the next book.
May 29, 2025
This series has been amazing and this latest installment is no exception. Infact this one is my favourite as I have a soft spot for Ruin! It's nice to see the story build and find out more about the boys aswell as their past. The ending is a cliffhanger so be warned...but it's so good! Can't wait for the last book coming later this year!
May 27, 2025
Quite spicy!
Ruin is the enigma of the family. Masked, seldom speaking, difficult to engage. Can Celia break through his silence and capture his heart while still struggling with her relationships with Ruin's three brothers? Filled with dangerous men and more dangerous situations. Quite spicy!
Ruin is the enigma of the family. Masked, seldom speaking, difficult to engage. Can Celia break through his silence and capture his heart while still struggling with her relationships with Ruin's three brothers? Filled with dangerous men and more dangerous situations. Quite spicy!
May 28, 2025
more pleaseeeee
This was such a breakthrough book for them. I was getting so excited but realized there was only a few pages left…I cannot wait for book 4! This was sweet, dramatic, sensational- I knew it ended in a cliffhanger but I’m soooo mad! I need to know!! lol great read love the series!!
This was such a breakthrough book for them. I was getting so excited but realized there was only a few pages left…I cannot wait for book 4! This was sweet, dramatic, sensational- I knew it ended in a cliffhanger but I’m soooo mad! I need to know!! lol great read love the series!!
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