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Meant to Burn
From International Bestselling Author Shae Ruby comes a brand new dark and spicy novella that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Elijah Rivers has spent his whole life worshipping silence, starving his body, and calling it holy. Raised under the crushing weight of purity culture, he’s spent years praying for the hunger inside of him to die.
That all changes.
When a forbidden ritual leads him to summon something ancient, he finds himself face to face with Azriel—a celestial being made of fire, shadows, and scorching desire. Azriel doesn’t come to punish. He comes to answer the prayer Elijah was too afraid to speak.
Now, temptation has its clutches in Elijah, speaking to him with a voice like velvet and watching him with eyes that burn. When Elijah falls to his knees this time, it won’t be for penance.
It will be for pleasure.
Meant to Burn is a dark, five-chili peppers erotic romance steeped in sacred blasphemy, emotional unraveling, and one man’s surrender to pleasure. Immerse yourself in the world of a seminary student becoming obsessed with a fallen angel, and his quick descent into hell.
Elijah Rivers has spent his whole life worshipping silence, starving his body, and calling it holy. Raised under the crushing weight of purity culture, he’s spent years praying for the hunger inside of him to die.
That all changes.
When a forbidden ritual leads him to summon something ancient, he finds himself face to face with Azriel—a celestial being made of fire, shadows, and scorching desire. Azriel doesn’t come to punish. He comes to answer the prayer Elijah was too afraid to speak.
Now, temptation has its clutches in Elijah, speaking to him with a voice like velvet and watching him with eyes that burn. When Elijah falls to his knees this time, it won’t be for penance.
It will be for pleasure.
Meant to Burn is a dark, five-chili peppers erotic romance steeped in sacred blasphemy, emotional unraveling, and one man’s surrender to pleasure. Immerse yourself in the world of a seminary student becoming obsessed with a fallen angel, and his quick descent into hell.
126 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2025
31 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Shae Ruby
12 books811 followersAuthor of dark romance & toxic love.
Sometimes diverse.
International Bestselling Author in five different countries, Shae Ruby spends their time writing, mostly queer, books that make you feel. Shae's stories come from deep within their bleeding heart, and they let the drops flow into their words.
Shae is represented by Lunar Literary Agency.
For all subsidiary rights, contact Angie Ojeda-Hazen.
Connect with me!
Facebook Reader Group: rubysdarkling
Facebook Page: authorshaeruby
Instagram: @authorshaeruby
TikTok: @authorshaeruby
Goodreads: authorshaeruby
Goodreads: authorshaeruby
Sometimes diverse.
International Bestselling Author in five different countries, Shae Ruby spends their time writing, mostly queer, books that make you feel. Shae's stories come from deep within their bleeding heart, and they let the drops flow into their words.
Shae is represented by Lunar Literary Agency.
For all subsidiary rights, contact Angie Ojeda-Hazen.
Connect with me!
Facebook Reader Group: rubysdarkling
Facebook Page: authorshaeruby
Instagram: @authorshaeruby
TikTok: @authorshaeruby
Goodreads: authorshaeruby
Goodreads: authorshaeruby
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
October 22, 2025
3.5 stars!
no surprise that it would be shae to bring me back to my fallen angel kick hehe. azriel and elijah’s romance was intense and i felt like i was on the edge of my seat, especially during the scenes with micah. i knew azriel wasn’t going to like that at all 🫣. i’m a sucker for characters who worship their partner, and azriel is definitely a prime example. you could literally feel his longing and devotion for elijah throughout the whole story, which is nice because you’d think the human would be super obsessed with the supernatural being rather than the other way around. my only complaint is that i wished it was longer! thank you to shae for the arc :)
no surprise that it would be shae to bring me back to my fallen angel kick hehe. azriel and elijah’s romance was intense and i felt like i was on the edge of my seat, especially during the scenes with micah. i knew azriel wasn’t going to like that at all 🫣. i’m a sucker for characters who worship their partner, and azriel is definitely a prime example. you could literally feel his longing and devotion for elijah throughout the whole story, which is nice because you’d think the human would be super obsessed with the supernatural being rather than the other way around. my only complaint is that i wished it was longer! thank you to shae for the arc :)
October 11, 2025
You ever read something so sinful that you have to clutch your imaginary pearls, apologize to every deity, and then immediately reread that scene again? Yeah. Same.
Elijah’s over here wrestling with his purity like, “I’m holy, I swear,” and Azriel’s like, “Cool story, now spread your legs.”
It’s faith meets filth. Religion meets ruin. And somehow, it’s also so damn beautiful.
The writing is gorgeous, the tension is insane, and the chemistry between these two? Blasphemous. Perfectly blasphemous.
If you’re into pain, pleasure, and heavenly beings doing very unholy things…grab a lighter. You’re meant to burn, baby.
Elijah’s over here wrestling with his purity like, “I’m holy, I swear,” and Azriel’s like, “Cool story, now spread your legs.”
It’s faith meets filth. Religion meets ruin. And somehow, it’s also so damn beautiful.
The writing is gorgeous, the tension is insane, and the chemistry between these two? Blasphemous. Perfectly blasphemous.
If you’re into pain, pleasure, and heavenly beings doing very unholy things…grab a lighter. You’re meant to burn, baby.
October 11, 2025
Oh MY God does she do it again? YES!!
5 ⭐️ 5🌶️
This book got all the spots needed Spice, Romance, Hate, Drama & most important love and understanding !
Az- your fallen angel your hero your unexpected
Eli- your broken soul your lost & confused your hope
These two found each other when they needed to not a moment to soon.
I felt for our side character as he was just as lost trying to find himself. It just in the wrong way.
The book brings light so many things with homophobia and religion it was the perfect blend..
Please read you won’t be disappointed!
This was an ARC read for my honest review
5 ⭐️ 5🌶️
This book got all the spots needed Spice, Romance, Hate, Drama & most important love and understanding !
Az- your fallen angel your hero your unexpected
Eli- your broken soul your lost & confused your hope
These two found each other when they needed to not a moment to soon.
I felt for our side character as he was just as lost trying to find himself. It just in the wrong way.
The book brings light so many things with homophobia and religion it was the perfect blend..
Please read you won’t be disappointed!
This was an ARC read for my honest review
October 12, 2025
Shae sure does way with words, words that will turn you into a slip and slide. It is InstaLUST vibes - kinda didn’t connect with the MMCS as it was super fast paced! Wham bam thank you ma’am. Do I need more…yup!? Micha I’m looking at you, you dick!
Seminary student x fallen angel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Seminary student x fallen angel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 21, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ it was a quick, dirty, MM novella ☺️ I really liked the two of them together and I liked the dual POV as well, I loved hearing Azriel yearn.
October 11, 2025
"God's not here to save you, Little Lamb."
Deliciously blasphemous! I came for the heat of hellfire, which was delivered, but I also left with the warm and fuzzys. I think we've all been Elijah in some form or another. There's always that part of ourselves that we fear showing for fear of rejection or damnation. And hopefully we all have an Azriel to remind us that we are worth living and loving freely. This was a fast paced novella that I honestly could have read more of. I wanted more of Az, this beautifully broken fallen angel, and Eli, a servant of God hiding behind his bible. A match made somewhere between heaven and hell, born in pleasure and blooming to an eternal peace. The spice was hotter than hell and the relationship between Elijah and Azriel was the sweetest sin.
"If he's not careful, he'll become the new God I worship. The only one."
"My angel, my salvation, and also my sweet damnation."
"Saint, sinner, lover, lamb....mine, mine, all fucking mine."
*I received and ARC and was honored to have the opportunity to read, rate and review this book prior to the publication date of 10.20.2025*
Deliciously blasphemous! I came for the heat of hellfire, which was delivered, but I also left with the warm and fuzzys. I think we've all been Elijah in some form or another. There's always that part of ourselves that we fear showing for fear of rejection or damnation. And hopefully we all have an Azriel to remind us that we are worth living and loving freely. This was a fast paced novella that I honestly could have read more of. I wanted more of Az, this beautifully broken fallen angel, and Eli, a servant of God hiding behind his bible. A match made somewhere between heaven and hell, born in pleasure and blooming to an eternal peace. The spice was hotter than hell and the relationship between Elijah and Azriel was the sweetest sin.
"If he's not careful, he'll become the new God I worship. The only one."
"My angel, my salvation, and also my sweet damnation."
"Saint, sinner, lover, lamb....mine, mine, all fucking mine."
*I received and ARC and was honored to have the opportunity to read, rate and review this book prior to the publication date of 10.20.2025*
October 21, 2025
Meant to Burn
Shae Ruby
Azriel & Elijah
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Seminary student/ Fallen Angel
Insta lust
Possessive OTP MC
Touch Starved
Spicy
Bl00d play / Wax Play
Celestial claiming
Wow, so this was a super spicy spooky kinky fun book
Loved this spooky book so much
Elijah, a Seminary student has been taught to pray the gay away so to speak. He just can't help it though.
He has those thoughts. He needs more. Conflicted with his faith and desires. He summons Azriel a Fallen Angel
Oh boy. What a hotter Azriel is.
Shoot these two were hot like fire
Eli battles with right and wrong throughout the book until he realizes he loves Azriel and gives himself over to him fully
Sheesh, this was great
I flew through this.
Azriel's mouth was everything
Elijah neediness was everything
These two were great together.
I enjoyed the push and push.
“Promise me,” he demands. “Swear you won’t leave me. Even when it’s hard.” “I won’t leave you,” I tell him. “Even when it’s hard— I swear it.”
We also got to see a little vulnerability from Az as well which was nice.
I loved their devotion to each other. They were really sweet.
Azriel was never my demon. He was the answer to all my prayers. I plan on living my life just as I was meant to. By his side. Forever.
This was a super kinky fun spicy book
Loved every word
So thankful for this arc
Shae Ruby
Azriel & Elijah
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
Seminary student/ Fallen Angel
Insta lust
Possessive OTP MC
Touch Starved
Spicy
Bl00d play / Wax Play
Celestial claiming
Wow, so this was a super spicy spooky kinky fun book
Loved this spooky book so much
Elijah, a Seminary student has been taught to pray the gay away so to speak. He just can't help it though.
He has those thoughts. He needs more. Conflicted with his faith and desires. He summons Azriel a Fallen Angel
Oh boy. What a hotter Azriel is.
Shoot these two were hot like fire
Eli battles with right and wrong throughout the book until he realizes he loves Azriel and gives himself over to him fully
Sheesh, this was great
I flew through this.
Azriel's mouth was everything
Elijah neediness was everything
These two were great together.
I enjoyed the push and push.
“Promise me,” he demands. “Swear you won’t leave me. Even when it’s hard.” “I won’t leave you,” I tell him. “Even when it’s hard— I swear it.”
We also got to see a little vulnerability from Az as well which was nice.
I loved their devotion to each other. They were really sweet.
Azriel was never my demon. He was the answer to all my prayers. I plan on living my life just as I was meant to. By his side. Forever.
This was a super kinky fun spicy book
Loved every word
So thankful for this arc
October 11, 2025
ARC Review:
“You ache. For relief, for touch. You want proof that you’re not broken. You called with your hunger, Little Lamb. I came as your feast.”
.
“Do you give yourself to me?” “Willingly?”...“Yes.”“I burn for you, Azriel.”
.
“I consecrate this oil to claim you, Elijah. Body, mind, and soul. From this day forward, you belong to me, and I to you. You’ll be everything to me from now until eternity. My love, my religion, my ruin.”
.
If you are looking for a dark romance I wouldn't say this is it, although there are some dark themes, (I.E. religious trauma).This is an MM Romance between a seminary student and a fallen angel. The characters themselves have a bit of a cheesy connection, kind of cutesy in a way. If you are a lover of yearning you've come to the right place. Also this is a book of all smut little plot.
.
I enjoyed this novella and all it's spice
4⭐, 4🌶️
“You ache. For relief, for touch. You want proof that you’re not broken. You called with your hunger, Little Lamb. I came as your feast.”
.
“Do you give yourself to me?” “Willingly?”...“Yes.”“I burn for you, Azriel.”
.
“I consecrate this oil to claim you, Elijah. Body, mind, and soul. From this day forward, you belong to me, and I to you. You’ll be everything to me from now until eternity. My love, my religion, my ruin.”
.
If you are looking for a dark romance I wouldn't say this is it, although there are some dark themes, (I.E. religious trauma).This is an MM Romance between a seminary student and a fallen angel. The characters themselves have a bit of a cheesy connection, kind of cutesy in a way. If you are a lover of yearning you've come to the right place. Also this is a book of all smut little plot.
.
I enjoyed this novella and all it's spice
4⭐, 4🌶️
October 21, 2025
Rating: 3.5/5 🌟
Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Characters: Elijah and Azriel
Spice: 4/5 🌶️
Characters: Elijah and Azriel
October 10, 2025
ARC review:
Did I just inhale this book in one sitting? YES
Is possible there is something wrong with me, but both of them were so cute! I don't even care about the spicy scenes, even when they were perfectly written, just both of them were so damn CUTE!
I don't even know who I like more, but it's very possible I pick Azriel, when you will read you will know why, but overall it was good. At first it was hard to adjust to the whole inside monologue, but you know what? It fits
perfectly into the story and to them!
I want to write more, but honestly there is no need. The inside monologue were perfectly written same as spicy scenes.
It’s true it could be few pages longer, but I just want more of them. More of their interactions and more of sweet moments. And yeah, I wanted also some big bloody revenge, but it’s just something my soul crave. Even despite this, it’s perfect! Perfect for dark fall rainy evening or night!
Did I just inhale this book in one sitting? YES
Is possible there is something wrong with me, but both of them were so cute! I don't even care about the spicy scenes, even when they were perfectly written, just both of them were so damn CUTE!
I don't even know who I like more, but it's very possible I pick Azriel, when you will read you will know why, but overall it was good. At first it was hard to adjust to the whole inside monologue, but you know what? It fits
perfectly into the story and to them!
I want to write more, but honestly there is no need. The inside monologue were perfectly written same as spicy scenes.
It’s true it could be few pages longer, but I just want more of them. More of their interactions and more of sweet moments. And yeah, I wanted also some big bloody revenge, but it’s just something my soul crave. Even despite this, it’s perfect! Perfect for dark fall rainy evening or night!
January 31, 2026
Sinful
KU Read
126 Page Novella
MM Paranormal Romance
Human x Fallen Angel
Forbidden
Religious/Cult setting
Spicy
Elijah is living at a seminary when he summons the fallen Angel Azriel while he was doubting his faith. Azriel makes him see the light, he loves him regardless and tries to show him the faults of those who he is trying to please but when push comes to shove what will Elijah choose? His faith or the man he loves?
This was a short spicy read that was fun and easily filled my Saturday afternoon. It was an easy read without getting too invested in a full length novel when I just wanted a quick book for today.
KU Read
126 Page Novella
MM Paranormal Romance
Human x Fallen Angel
Forbidden
Religious/Cult setting
Spicy
Elijah is living at a seminary when he summons the fallen Angel Azriel while he was doubting his faith. Azriel makes him see the light, he loves him regardless and tries to show him the faults of those who he is trying to please but when push comes to shove what will Elijah choose? His faith or the man he loves?
This was a short spicy read that was fun and easily filled my Saturday afternoon. It was an easy read without getting too invested in a full length novel when I just wanted a quick book for today.
October 12, 2025
5⭐️/5🔥
I need an Azriel!
Meant to Burn is a delightfully dark MM romance that will have you drooling at the spice! Azriel is the best kind of sin and I would follow him to Hell! 🤣 Elijah has trapped himself in a life of servitude in the church, but knows he lives a lie. He's not his most authentic self until he summons Azriel and is shown what matters most: love, understanding, and an unbreakable bond with someone who accepts all of you. It's a beautiful, quick, spicy story that had me in its clutches from page 1.
I need an Azriel!
Meant to Burn is a delightfully dark MM romance that will have you drooling at the spice! Azriel is the best kind of sin and I would follow him to Hell! 🤣 Elijah has trapped himself in a life of servitude in the church, but knows he lives a lie. He's not his most authentic self until he summons Azriel and is shown what matters most: love, understanding, and an unbreakable bond with someone who accepts all of you. It's a beautiful, quick, spicy story that had me in its clutches from page 1.
October 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
ARC REVIEW
WOAH, this one is so spicy! A seminary student x fallen angel what more could you ask for?! The forbidden tension, the devotion, and the way their bond blurs the line between faith and desire had me completely hooked. I was fanning myself the entire time because Elijah and Azriel’s chemistry practically explodes off the page.
The atmosphere fits perfectly for spooky season too, dark and sinful in the best way. I can already see myself rereading this one! Another banger from Shae 🔥🔥🔥
ARC REVIEW
WOAH, this one is so spicy! A seminary student x fallen angel what more could you ask for?! The forbidden tension, the devotion, and the way their bond blurs the line between faith and desire had me completely hooked. I was fanning myself the entire time because Elijah and Azriel’s chemistry practically explodes off the page.
The atmosphere fits perfectly for spooky season too, dark and sinful in the best way. I can already see myself rereading this one! Another banger from Shae 🔥🔥🔥
October 23, 2025
I’m not a huge fan of novella/short story’s because I always want them longer. And no surprise here I definitely wish this one was longer. These two pulled me in, like way in. From their first interaction until the last page I couldn’t get enough. This story has it all. The banter, chemistry, sweetness, the Spice! And someone sticking their nose where it doesn’t belong. Seriously how can you get it better than that!
🔥seminary student/fallen angel
🔥insta lust
🔥possessive/over the top alpha MC
🔥mm romance
🔥seminary student/fallen angel
🔥insta lust
🔥possessive/over the top alpha MC
🔥mm romance
October 27, 2025
This was exactly what I was hoping it was! Short and full of heat! Eli struggles with his desires after being raised in the church and Az gives him everything his heart desires and so much more!
While yes, this is a shorter book, it's not lacking! There is drama and a plot that flows nicely! I loved this story! and the ending was adorable! ☺️
While yes, this is a shorter book, it's not lacking! There is drama and a plot that flows nicely! I loved this story! and the ending was adorable! ☺️
October 11, 2025
Elijah + Azriel
-mm forbidden romance
-seminary student x fallen angel
-insta-lust
-virgin mmc
-blood & wax play
ohhh i lovedddd the forbiddenness of this story & the plot was sooo naughty!! it was a great time!!
-mm forbidden romance
-seminary student x fallen angel
-insta-lust
-virgin mmc
-blood & wax play
ohhh i lovedddd the forbiddenness of this story & the plot was sooo naughty!! it was a great time!!
October 23, 2025
“You’ll burn in eternal fire—” “Then I’ll burn with him!” I yell. “I promised myself to him. Our souls are bound for all eternity, and if I must burn, then so be it.”
March 11, 2026
This book was literally so good, I loved it so much. I literally didn't move until it was done.
October 15, 2025
Meant to Burn is a quick, hot read! It’s a fast paced, forbidden love story between a conflicted man and a fallen angel. Lots of spice, a little plot, but exactly what I needed!
October 22, 2025
4.5⭐
5🌶️
Writing this after taking a holy water shower.
Looks like a little tradition to read a spooky super hot novella from @ Shae Ruby to make the Halloween theme on fire, last year was with ‘Summoned’ and that time with this one, both unholy but delightful.
The story follows Elijah, a boy who always get into religion by his family and well, maybe not in the good way, taking this one as something to live for and following all the rules as dumb lambs, making things get hard when you go different as other taking the religion punishments to make closer to God and making look as a good in the seminary as the other guys. But then he meets someone that makes Elijah meet the one that makes who real is, Azrael, the fallen angel.
Truly love that story so much, from how unholy it is and also painful too for how Eli needs to live and make all the decisions based on the religion but also in the way that his family wants, making his own decisions and desires getting banned in the shadows. This is something so related of how we put the society rules and also how the religion plays a huge thing in our lives, rather than many people didn’t see it because we have in our roots as we grow up, but always feel unhappy even you fit into the requirements. So when Azrael appears, is just -plays The Apparition by Sleep Token.- wonderful and start that delicious moment of self discover making the desires talk that makes something wonderful.
Of course, the apparition of Azrael makes the best things and want to be Eli for moments, from the beginning to the end. Is not also a response to the inner desires of his body, is also, what really wants and how he wants to be as person and Azrael is the key to makes Eli question all around it, even Micah, the one that I thought could be something good and well, could be but not, showing his truly colors makes how wrong person is. I love these two, the way Eli get self discover, seeing how he that boy has a lot inside, surprise me in a many awesome ways also Azrael POV is amazing seeing how he get not as another who summon him, but also someone who wants to share more with. Short but intense, the spice is as I said makes me grab my rosary, love the parts of the altar and the confessionary a lot. As always, Shae makes a short story that makes feel a lot from wholesome, to makes you feel the pain and then ignite the fire of the passionate love all in only 126 pages.
5🌶️
Writing this after taking a holy water shower.
Looks like a little tradition to read a spooky super hot novella from @ Shae Ruby to make the Halloween theme on fire, last year was with ‘Summoned’ and that time with this one, both unholy but delightful.
The story follows Elijah, a boy who always get into religion by his family and well, maybe not in the good way, taking this one as something to live for and following all the rules as dumb lambs, making things get hard when you go different as other taking the religion punishments to make closer to God and making look as a good in the seminary as the other guys. But then he meets someone that makes Elijah meet the one that makes who real is, Azrael, the fallen angel.
Truly love that story so much, from how unholy it is and also painful too for how Eli needs to live and make all the decisions based on the religion but also in the way that his family wants, making his own decisions and desires getting banned in the shadows. This is something so related of how we put the society rules and also how the religion plays a huge thing in our lives, rather than many people didn’t see it because we have in our roots as we grow up, but always feel unhappy even you fit into the requirements. So when Azrael appears, is just -plays The Apparition by Sleep Token.- wonderful and start that delicious moment of self discover making the desires talk that makes something wonderful.
Of course, the apparition of Azrael makes the best things and want to be Eli for moments, from the beginning to the end. Is not also a response to the inner desires of his body, is also, what really wants and how he wants to be as person and Azrael is the key to makes Eli question all around it, even Micah, the one that I thought could be something good and well, could be but not, showing his truly colors makes how wrong person is. I love these two, the way Eli get self discover, seeing how he that boy has a lot inside, surprise me in a many awesome ways also Azrael POV is amazing seeing how he get not as another who summon him, but also someone who wants to share more with. Short but intense, the spice is as I said makes me grab my rosary, love the parts of the altar and the confessionary a lot. As always, Shae makes a short story that makes feel a lot from wholesome, to makes you feel the pain and then ignite the fire of the passionate love all in only 126 pages.
October 20, 2025
⭐ ARC Review — Meant to Burn by Shae Ruby ⭐
🔥 Taboo
🥀 Possessive
🛐 Unholy and emotional
📿 Religious trauma & redemption
🕯️ Fallen angel x seminary student
💋 Sinfully perfect
“Saints, turn your head. There is no God here.”
Meant to Burn is sacrilege incarnate — not just blasphemous, but holy in its unholiness. Shae Ruby has written a story that dances on the line between sin and salvation, turning religious guilt into a love story that feels both raw and transcendent.
Elijah is a devout seminary student with a secret — he likes men. Every desire he feels becomes another reason to repent, another sin to punish himself for. He starves, he prays, he begs for forgiveness… but never finds peace.
Until he summons Azriel, a fallen angel meant to guide him back to the light. But Azriel doesn’t save him — not in the way Elijah expects. Instead, he shows him truth. Desire. Love. Acceptance. Everything Elijah was taught to fear.
The chemistry between them is instant and electric, but beneath the spice (and there’s plenty of it), this story carries so much heart. Azriel shows Elijah that he’s not disgusting or broken — he’s worthy of being seen, touched, and loved for exactly who he is.
As Elijah’s inner war between faith and desire rages, you can feel his transformation. Slowly, painfully, beautifully, he sheds the guilt that’s been carved into him and finds something like salvation — not from heaven, but from love itself.
This book handles religious trauma, identity, and acceptance with care, all while delivering scenes that will set your soul (and maybe your screen) on fire.
It’s emotional, taboo, tender, and unforgettable.
I wanted more — more quiet moments, more of their soft touches, more pages of peace after the storm. But what we got was perfection: a story of love that defies doctrine, faith that transcends fear, and passion that feels divine.
Meant to Burn is a must-read for anyone who loves dark romance with meaning.
Perfect for a cold, rainy night when you want something sinful, beautiful, and full of heart.
🔥 Taboo
🥀 Possessive
🛐 Unholy and emotional
📿 Religious trauma & redemption
🕯️ Fallen angel x seminary student
💋 Sinfully perfect
“Saints, turn your head. There is no God here.”
Meant to Burn is sacrilege incarnate — not just blasphemous, but holy in its unholiness. Shae Ruby has written a story that dances on the line between sin and salvation, turning religious guilt into a love story that feels both raw and transcendent.
Elijah is a devout seminary student with a secret — he likes men. Every desire he feels becomes another reason to repent, another sin to punish himself for. He starves, he prays, he begs for forgiveness… but never finds peace.
Until he summons Azriel, a fallen angel meant to guide him back to the light. But Azriel doesn’t save him — not in the way Elijah expects. Instead, he shows him truth. Desire. Love. Acceptance. Everything Elijah was taught to fear.
The chemistry between them is instant and electric, but beneath the spice (and there’s plenty of it), this story carries so much heart. Azriel shows Elijah that he’s not disgusting or broken — he’s worthy of being seen, touched, and loved for exactly who he is.
As Elijah’s inner war between faith and desire rages, you can feel his transformation. Slowly, painfully, beautifully, he sheds the guilt that’s been carved into him and finds something like salvation — not from heaven, but from love itself.
This book handles religious trauma, identity, and acceptance with care, all while delivering scenes that will set your soul (and maybe your screen) on fire.
It’s emotional, taboo, tender, and unforgettable.
I wanted more — more quiet moments, more of their soft touches, more pages of peace after the storm. But what we got was perfection: a story of love that defies doctrine, faith that transcends fear, and passion that feels divine.
Meant to Burn is a must-read for anyone who loves dark romance with meaning.
Perfect for a cold, rainy night when you want something sinful, beautiful, and full of heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2025
This book was made for the religious trauma girls, gays, and theys!
This is my first reading of Shae’s work and I must say she has a great writing style. She paints a perfect picture of every scene in this book and everything was very easy to visualize. The story itself is very relatable for those of us who have gone through that style of southern religious trauma. I felt very seen in most of Elijah’s struggles and it was very cathartic watching him break free of those burdens. It didn’t hurt that there was hot male to help him through those struggles😉
The smut - mind blowing🤯. The spice is HOT in this read. I’m talking 4/5 peppers hot. The scenes are very VERY descriptive so if you’re not a fan of that style, this book might not be for you. There are a ton of triggers as well, so if you think you might be sensitive to some of the topics, please make sure you check that list. But, for those who love a good filthy scene, you’ll eat this read right up!
Also I HIGHLY recommend reading this book with the playlist at the beginning! It is 🔥🔥🔥
There were a couple of places where the pacing seemed a little too fast for me. I also don’t think this novella quite met my expectations as far as characters go - specifically Azriel. He’s supposed to be this powerful angel, but I didn’t really get much of that in the story. He has abilities above anything human for sure, but honestly through parts of it I forgot that he was different than the rest of the characters. I think it’s in the mindset of his character that just left me feeling like something missing. Without giving too much of the story away, it doesn’t feel like the thought process of an ancient immortal being who’s finally found his love.
With that being said, that might just be a me and my own religious trauma thing, so I’m not letting that aspect affect the rating of the book. It was still a really good, really spicy read!
This is my first reading of Shae’s work and I must say she has a great writing style. She paints a perfect picture of every scene in this book and everything was very easy to visualize. The story itself is very relatable for those of us who have gone through that style of southern religious trauma. I felt very seen in most of Elijah’s struggles and it was very cathartic watching him break free of those burdens. It didn’t hurt that there was hot male to help him through those struggles😉
The smut - mind blowing🤯. The spice is HOT in this read. I’m talking 4/5 peppers hot. The scenes are very VERY descriptive so if you’re not a fan of that style, this book might not be for you. There are a ton of triggers as well, so if you think you might be sensitive to some of the topics, please make sure you check that list. But, for those who love a good filthy scene, you’ll eat this read right up!
Also I HIGHLY recommend reading this book with the playlist at the beginning! It is 🔥🔥🔥
There were a couple of places where the pacing seemed a little too fast for me. I also don’t think this novella quite met my expectations as far as characters go - specifically Azriel. He’s supposed to be this powerful angel, but I didn’t really get much of that in the story. He has abilities above anything human for sure, but honestly through parts of it I forgot that he was different than the rest of the characters. I think it’s in the mindset of his character that just left me feeling like something missing. Without giving too much of the story away, it doesn’t feel like the thought process of an ancient immortal being who’s finally found his love.
With that being said, that might just be a me and my own religious trauma thing, so I’m not letting that aspect affect the rating of the book. It was still a really good, really spicy read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2025
🔥I wish he could see himself the way I see him. If he did, he'd never question his worth again🔥
"I've starved myself of affection my entire life, and I can't deny that now... I'm famished for it. But I can't have it, and it's something I battle with every single day."
"Why is there a tiny part of me that hopes everyone is wrong? Because if god created me in his image, then he wouldn't make me defective. Would he?"
"You ache. For relief, for touch. You want proof that you're not broken. You called with your hunger, Little Lamb. I came as your feast."
"He was wrong all along. He's not unholy. Elijah is the very opposite. If he's not careful, he'll become the new God I worship. The only one."
"I'll burn with him! I promised myself to him. Our souls are bound for all eternity, and if I must burn, then so be it."
"Saint, sinner, lover, lamb. Mine, mine, all f****** mine."
This was another great book by this author. This was a short book but so spicy and sexy 🔥🔥🔥🔥. I love the taboo of mixing religion and spice, and this book hit every mark. While this book was light in the plot and heavy on spice, it was also romantic and sweet.
This story follows Azriel and Elijah. Elijah is a seminary student and lived his entire life by the church and their views. He is having sexual urges that he tries to purge, but nothing can help him. He ends up summoning Azriel, a fallen angel, to make him holy again. What he doesn't know is that Azriel wants his body, heart, and soul.
The spice and connection between these two were hot af and so dirty and sexy 🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥🔥. The spice was top tier. I loved how sweet and protective Azriel was towards Elijah. Elijah surprised me when he finally let go and became quite domineering and mouthy 🤣. Loved the ending and was happy that Elijah finally got his freedom and was happy. I would love to read more about these two.😈👿🔥🙏
"I've starved myself of affection my entire life, and I can't deny that now... I'm famished for it. But I can't have it, and it's something I battle with every single day."
"Why is there a tiny part of me that hopes everyone is wrong? Because if god created me in his image, then he wouldn't make me defective. Would he?"
"You ache. For relief, for touch. You want proof that you're not broken. You called with your hunger, Little Lamb. I came as your feast."
"He was wrong all along. He's not unholy. Elijah is the very opposite. If he's not careful, he'll become the new God I worship. The only one."
"I'll burn with him! I promised myself to him. Our souls are bound for all eternity, and if I must burn, then so be it."
"Saint, sinner, lover, lamb. Mine, mine, all f****** mine."
This was another great book by this author. This was a short book but so spicy and sexy 🔥🔥🔥🔥. I love the taboo of mixing religion and spice, and this book hit every mark. While this book was light in the plot and heavy on spice, it was also romantic and sweet.
This story follows Azriel and Elijah. Elijah is a seminary student and lived his entire life by the church and their views. He is having sexual urges that he tries to purge, but nothing can help him. He ends up summoning Azriel, a fallen angel, to make him holy again. What he doesn't know is that Azriel wants his body, heart, and soul.
The spice and connection between these two were hot af and so dirty and sexy 🥵🥵🔥🔥🔥🔥. The spice was top tier. I loved how sweet and protective Azriel was towards Elijah. Elijah surprised me when he finally let go and became quite domineering and mouthy 🤣. Loved the ending and was happy that Elijah finally got his freedom and was happy. I would love to read more about these two.😈👿🔥🙏
October 18, 2025
Elijah is a devout seminary student with a secret. He likes men and can't help but want to be taken and claimed in all the ways he was taught were a sin. Because of his desires our poor Elijah repents, starves himself, and lives half a life. That is until he summons Azriel to help get him back on the right track but instead of doing that Azriel holds a mirror to all the things that Elijah pushes down because if he doesn't he's been taught that he'll burn. And burn he does when the instalust between him and Azriel sets their world on fire. Now that he's had a taste of everything he's always wanted he doesn't know how he can go back but fights with himself and resists until he falls so hard and fast for Azriel that he can't see how what they have is wrong and he can't bear to be without his fallen angel. Azriel shows him that he isn't gross, or unworthy, or shameful. Instead, he shows him love, care, and how it feels to be worshipped and loved for who he is. This was a pretty quick read but that isn't why I flew through it. It was just a page turner of sinfully delicious spice but also some heart too. Slowly Elijah untangled himself from the cult he was being brought up in and found salvation in what the seminary calls a demon and whom he calls the love of his life. I have to say that I understand Micah being hurt but what he did was awful and unforgivable. But thankfully even with Micah being a jerk Azriel and Elijah were able to make a life for themselves side by side for all eternity. A life of acceptance, courage and so much love and passion.
October 15, 2025
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance/Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
A Fast, Fiery Read That Sizzles More Than It Soars
[This is my first ARC read for Shae Ruby.]
Meant to Burn is a fast-paced, steamy fantasy romance that dives straight into the fire—literally and figuratively. From the start, it wastes no time getting into the action, both in terms of plot and spice. There’s a lot of smut here, and it’s written in a way that keeps the pages turning quickly.
Azriel, the supposed fallen angel, came across as a bit too human for my taste. While the story hints at celestial elements, the execution felt more like a mortal-and-human dynamic than a mortal-and-angel one. Still, his chemistry with Elijah was undeniable. Elijah’s guilt and inner struggle were some of the strongest parts of the book, and those moments added real depth to an otherwise fast and fiery ride.
That said, I did notice a few pacing issues and some plot holes that weren’t fully addressed. The story had great potential, but it didn’t quite dive deep enough into the emotional or world-building aspects that could’ve elevated it further.
Overall, Meant to Burn delivers on spice and tension, making it an enjoyable quick read for those looking for a fantasy romance heavy on heat. If you’re in the mood for something fast, smutty, and full of emotional turmoil, this one might just be worth the burn.
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance/Spice: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Writing: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
A Fast, Fiery Read That Sizzles More Than It Soars
[This is my first ARC read for Shae Ruby.]
Meant to Burn is a fast-paced, steamy fantasy romance that dives straight into the fire—literally and figuratively. From the start, it wastes no time getting into the action, both in terms of plot and spice. There’s a lot of smut here, and it’s written in a way that keeps the pages turning quickly.
Azriel, the supposed fallen angel, came across as a bit too human for my taste. While the story hints at celestial elements, the execution felt more like a mortal-and-human dynamic than a mortal-and-angel one. Still, his chemistry with Elijah was undeniable. Elijah’s guilt and inner struggle were some of the strongest parts of the book, and those moments added real depth to an otherwise fast and fiery ride.
That said, I did notice a few pacing issues and some plot holes that weren’t fully addressed. The story had great potential, but it didn’t quite dive deep enough into the emotional or world-building aspects that could’ve elevated it further.
Overall, Meant to Burn delivers on spice and tension, making it an enjoyable quick read for those looking for a fantasy romance heavy on heat. If you’re in the mood for something fast, smutty, and full of emotional turmoil, this one might just be worth the burn.
October 16, 2025
✝️ ARC REVIEW ✝️
RELEASING: OCTOBER 20th
My Rating: 3.5⭐️
Dark Supernatural Novella
Seminary Student & Fallen Angel
Preacher's Son
MM Romance
Virgin MMC (assumed)
My Spicy Rating: 5🌶
What a quick smutty novella. Stark naked fallen angel in all his glory. Hell yeah. Having s*x in the Chapel Altar cacooned in the fallen angels wings. Blow my mind. S*x inside a confessional booth. F*cken hot. Using anointing oil. Poof, I'm dead. This novella has a low plot. But LOTS of smut. It's very fast paced. No build up. Straight to point. Spicy scenes are fantastic. Novella is good but... for my taste, it wasn't that great. I did have a hard time getting into it since it went so fast. It had so much potential. I would have liked a little more built up. Some of the conversations felt too weak. Their personalities felt too young. Not mature enough. I felt some things were unanswered. I would have liked to know Elijah's age because I kept picturing him as a high schooler, not an adult. But it was fun to read. Very different. It's a very spicy novella, exactly what I enjoy to read so give it a chance. If not for the plot, then the smut. 😏 This is the 2nd book I've read by Shae Ruby. And it won't be the last. Thank you for letting me read this spicy novella.
RELEASING: OCTOBER 20th
My Rating: 3.5⭐️
Dark Supernatural Novella
Seminary Student & Fallen Angel
Preacher's Son
MM Romance
Virgin MMC (assumed)
My Spicy Rating: 5🌶
What a quick smutty novella. Stark naked fallen angel in all his glory. Hell yeah. Having s*x in the Chapel Altar cacooned in the fallen angels wings. Blow my mind. S*x inside a confessional booth. F*cken hot. Using anointing oil. Poof, I'm dead. This novella has a low plot. But LOTS of smut. It's very fast paced. No build up. Straight to point. Spicy scenes are fantastic. Novella is good but... for my taste, it wasn't that great. I did have a hard time getting into it since it went so fast. It had so much potential. I would have liked a little more built up. Some of the conversations felt too weak. Their personalities felt too young. Not mature enough. I felt some things were unanswered. I would have liked to know Elijah's age because I kept picturing him as a high schooler, not an adult. But it was fun to read. Very different. It's a very spicy novella, exactly what I enjoy to read so give it a chance. If not for the plot, then the smut. 😏 This is the 2nd book I've read by Shae Ruby. And it won't be the last. Thank you for letting me read this spicy novella.
October 20, 2025
I really wish there was a way I could rate this book more than 5 stars!! It's been some time since a MM Dark Paranormal Romance has left such an emotional impact on khhllkfà a a came to him & flipped his entire world upside down (in all the best ways possible). The way he took him under his wing (pun intended 😉) & showed him that you can’t help who you love & you certainly shouldn't be judged or condemned because of it! Shae always does such a beautiful job expressing that Love truly is Love no matter who it is with! I don't want to give to much of the book away but just know that you'll be so thankful that you took the time to read it!!!
Some of my favorite quotes:
🗯 "You called with your hunger, little lamb. I came as your feast." Azriel ➡️ Elijah
🗯 "I let him control the pace, let him use me. He doesn’t even know he's doing it, doesn't know how gorgeous he looks while he loses his mind. " Azriel ➡️ Elijah
🗯 "You don't want Salvation, Elijah. You want something to feel. " Azriel ➡️ Elijah
🗯 "My Angel, my Salvation, and also my sweet Damnation." Elijah ➡️ Azriel
🗯 "I promised myself to him. Our souls are bound for all eternity, and if I must burn, then so be it!" Elijah ➡️ Father Jacob
🗯 "Saint, Sinner, Lover, Lamb." Azriel ➡️ Elijah
Some of my favorite quotes:
🗯 "You called with your hunger, little lamb. I came as your feast." Azriel ➡️ Elijah
🗯 "I let him control the pace, let him use me. He doesn’t even know he's doing it, doesn't know how gorgeous he looks while he loses his mind. " Azriel ➡️ Elijah
🗯 "You don't want Salvation, Elijah. You want something to feel. " Azriel ➡️ Elijah
🗯 "My Angel, my Salvation, and also my sweet Damnation." Elijah ➡️ Azriel
🗯 "I promised myself to him. Our souls are bound for all eternity, and if I must burn, then so be it!" Elijah ➡️ Father Jacob
🗯 "Saint, Sinner, Lover, Lamb." Azriel ➡️ Elijah
October 21, 2025
ARC Review
Shae Ruby crafts a story that burns fast and bright, pulling you straight into a world of temptation and tension. Meant to Burn wastes no time—its intensity hits from the first page, sparking instant chemistry between a conflicted seminary student and a dangerously alluring fallen angel. It’s bold, fast-paced, and unapologetically sensual, written with the kind of energy that keeps you hooked until the very end.
I tore through this book in one sitting, completely caught up in the emotion and chaos of it all. The characters are captivating—vulnerable yet strong, their connection raw and addictive. The writing style, especially the internal thoughts, adds so much depth and rhythm to their story. It’s sharp, intimate, and filled with moments that make you grin, ache, and maybe blush a little.
What makes this story stand out is its perfect mix of darkness and devotion. It’s steamy, yes—but it’s also about surrender, faith, and the power of giving in to what feels right, even when it shouldn’t. The chemistry between Elijah and Azriel blazes across every page, transforming lust into something achingly tender. A short, sinful, and beautifully written read that lingers long after the final line.
Shae Ruby crafts a story that burns fast and bright, pulling you straight into a world of temptation and tension. Meant to Burn wastes no time—its intensity hits from the first page, sparking instant chemistry between a conflicted seminary student and a dangerously alluring fallen angel. It’s bold, fast-paced, and unapologetically sensual, written with the kind of energy that keeps you hooked until the very end.
I tore through this book in one sitting, completely caught up in the emotion and chaos of it all. The characters are captivating—vulnerable yet strong, their connection raw and addictive. The writing style, especially the internal thoughts, adds so much depth and rhythm to their story. It’s sharp, intimate, and filled with moments that make you grin, ache, and maybe blush a little.
What makes this story stand out is its perfect mix of darkness and devotion. It’s steamy, yes—but it’s also about surrender, faith, and the power of giving in to what feels right, even when it shouldn’t. The chemistry between Elijah and Azriel blazes across every page, transforming lust into something achingly tender. A short, sinful, and beautifully written read that lingers long after the final line.
October 22, 2025
🔥🔥🔥🔥.5
🌶🌶🌶
🔥Seminary Student x Fallen Angel|🔥Insta-lust|🔥Possessive/Over The Top MMC|🔥V¡rg¡n MMC|🔥BI0Od Play|🔥Wax Play|🔥MM
Elijah, a seminary student, is hiding a big secret. One he can't seem to keep hidden anymore and is considered a sin in his church. In a desperate attempt to put an end to said desires, he ends up summoning Azriel. What he thinks will be his way out, quickly turns into his damnation, where all his desires and wants will become an unavoidable need.
Azriel, a fallen angel, quickly becomes entranced by Elijah. Wanting nothing more than to ravage him, Azriel will take Elijah down a forbidden path. What starts as insta-lust quickly becomes more as Azriel teaches Elijah that what he feels is something normal, beautiful, and right.
If you are searching for a quick read, I'd highly recommend giving Meant To Burn a chance. Not only do you get smut, but you also get a beautiful story of how love can heal. What I especially enjoyed was that you also get to meet a bit of who Azriel and Elijah are as individual people and their backstories. My only complaint is that I wish this was a full length book! As I said before, I highly recommend this book, especially as we get into the spooky season!
🌶🌶🌶
🔥Seminary Student x Fallen Angel|🔥Insta-lust|🔥Possessive/Over The Top MMC|🔥V¡rg¡n MMC|🔥BI0Od Play|🔥Wax Play|🔥MM
Elijah, a seminary student, is hiding a big secret. One he can't seem to keep hidden anymore and is considered a sin in his church. In a desperate attempt to put an end to said desires, he ends up summoning Azriel. What he thinks will be his way out, quickly turns into his damnation, where all his desires and wants will become an unavoidable need.
Azriel, a fallen angel, quickly becomes entranced by Elijah. Wanting nothing more than to ravage him, Azriel will take Elijah down a forbidden path. What starts as insta-lust quickly becomes more as Azriel teaches Elijah that what he feels is something normal, beautiful, and right.
If you are searching for a quick read, I'd highly recommend giving Meant To Burn a chance. Not only do you get smut, but you also get a beautiful story of how love can heal. What I especially enjoyed was that you also get to meet a bit of who Azriel and Elijah are as individual people and their backstories. My only complaint is that I wish this was a full length book! As I said before, I highly recommend this book, especially as we get into the spooky season!
October 11, 2025
This is a short and spicy mm paranormal romance novella that deals with some religious themes so keep that in mind before going into this.
This follows Elijah who is currently in a seminary devoting his life to god as is expected of him, but while hes there hes consumed by temptation. Hes constantly fasting and praying extra just to keep his traitrous thoughts away.
Now one day when hes cataloging in the library he comes across an old book written in latin and he has a sudden urge to tear out a page that contains a prayer hoping that this might be the answer to ridding himself of these thoughts once and for all.
But what happens when he says this prayer and summons Azraiel a fallen angel who is temption personified and what happens if he finally gives into his thoughts with this divine being?
This was short and sweet and over all I think a fun and cute little novella. Part of me wanted more of these two. I had a blast reading this and can’t wait for more.
What to expect:
🩸Seminary Student X Angel
🔥Insta-Lust
🩸Posessive and Obsessive MMC
🔥Wax Play
🩸Summoning Circles but make it 🌶️
🔥Inexperienced MMC
🩸Bl00d Rituals and Play
🔥MM
🩸W0rship
This follows Elijah who is currently in a seminary devoting his life to god as is expected of him, but while hes there hes consumed by temptation. Hes constantly fasting and praying extra just to keep his traitrous thoughts away.
Now one day when hes cataloging in the library he comes across an old book written in latin and he has a sudden urge to tear out a page that contains a prayer hoping that this might be the answer to ridding himself of these thoughts once and for all.
But what happens when he says this prayer and summons Azraiel a fallen angel who is temption personified and what happens if he finally gives into his thoughts with this divine being?
This was short and sweet and over all I think a fun and cute little novella. Part of me wanted more of these two. I had a blast reading this and can’t wait for more.
What to expect:
🩸Seminary Student X Angel
🔥Insta-Lust
🩸Posessive and Obsessive MMC
🔥Wax Play
🩸Summoning Circles but make it 🌶️
🔥Inexperienced MMC
🩸Bl00d Rituals and Play
🔥MM
🩸W0rship
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