Butcher & Blackbird (The Ruinous Love Trilogy, #1) in Smut & Plot Books

May 24, 2025 Josie Bookstagram rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

"I didn’t gouge them out, Butcher. I plucked them. Delicately. Like a lady." 👀

I listened to Butcher & Blackbird on my commute this week and honestly, the journey to and from work just flew by. Speaking of flying, let’s talk about Joe Arden’s narration. Oh. My. Goodness. His voice is absolutely incredible! I think I’ve developed a bit of a crush, that Irish accent 😍

The book itself? What a ride! I thoroughly enjoyed every unconventional minute. Sloane and Rowan are just… perfect for each other, in "I didn’t gouge them out, Butcher. I plucked them. Delicately. Like a lady." 👀

I listened to Butcher & Blackbird on my commute this week and honestly, the journey to and from work just flew by. Speaking of flying, let’s talk about Joe Arden’s narration. Oh. My. Goodness. His voice is absolutely incredible! I think I’ve developed a bit of a crush, that Irish accent 😍

The book itself? What a ride! I thoroughly enjoyed every unconventional minute. Sloane and Rowan are just… perfect for each other, in the most delightfully twisted way imaginable. You know, going into it, they both had a fair share of baggage, and it’s testament to Brynne Weaver’s writing that she made their initial friendship, and then their burgeoning relationship, so utterly compelling. Yes, their shared hobby is, shall we say, a touch unconventional – murder, to be precise – but somehow, it just works. It was a genuinely fun read, and I found myself giggling at some of the darker humour, which probably says more about me than I care to admit! What really struck me was how Brynne Weaver managed to balance the gruesome with genuine emotional connection. It’s a dark romance, but it’s also incredibly character-driven. Sloane, with her controlled chaos, and Rowan, with his more methodical approach, are two sides of the same very sharp coin. Their interactions, their banter, the way they slowly peeled back each other’s layers – it was all so expertly handled. You get to see their vulnerabilities, their past traumas, and how they find solace and understanding in each other’s equally unconventional company. It’s not just about the kills; it’s about the connection that forms between two broken people who find their missing pieces in one another.

If you're looking for something that pushes boundaries, is incredibly well-written, and features a truly unforgettable couple, then you absolutely have to pick up Butcher & Blackbird. And if you can, definitely listen to the audiobook – Joe Arden is a national treasure. ...more

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Jul 18, 2025 Kayla rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

This one had me giggling the whole way through. The banter, the slow burn, the Dexter Morgan-esque romance between two vigilante serial killers. I ate this up! I was afraid it was gonna be too dark for me but it was perfect. Brynne Weaver is a genius. 10/10. Maybe the best book I read all year!

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Nov 24, 2024 Andrea rated it it was amazing

I can’t believe I waited so long to start this book. I think part of me was nervous because I love cookies and cream ice cream and was worried it was going to be ruined for me - but it wasn’t as bad as I was expecting lol. Like still gross but, could’ve been worse!
This book was more on the romantic comedy side than the dark romance side in my opinion, with a significant slow burn. I LOVED the soundtrack and specific chapters for specific songs. It really helped set the mood. Other books have pla ...more

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Jul 16, 2024 Bre rated it really liked it

3.5 ⭐️
Such an interesting book.

The 🔥 was not my fav. Quite a lot had to skip a lot once that dam broke

I loved Rowan (Butcher) his personality was so fun and he’s just so sweet such a romantic serial killer.

Didn’t love the detailed games iykyk yikes - little too gory at times for my brain but the in betweens of 🔥 and killings was super fun their relationship and the concept was unique for me.

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