“The Ruined” by Renée Ahdieh is a gripping fantasy novel set in a world divided by war and magic. The story follows Emelina, a young woman from the kingdom of Ruina, who seeks revenge against the ruling class responsible for her family’s suffering and the destruction of her homeland. After witnessing the brutal murder of her family, Emelina disguises herself as a servant and infiltrates the palace of the powerful kingdom of Aluria, where she aims to manipulate the royal family and execute her plan for vengeance.

As she navigates the complexities of court life, Emelina encounters romantic entanglements and unexpected friendships, forcing her to confront the moral dilemmas of her quest. The narrative explores themes of love, loyalty, and the gray areas of vengeance, ultimately leading Emelina to question her motives and the cost of revenge. Ahdieh’s tale is rich with intrigue, betrayal, and the possibilities of redemption.