I loved seeing all the character interactions, and I now really want to read the companion series, The Dark Elements trilogy.

Thank you NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.

The second installment of The Harbinger series, and a lot happened that I’m not ready to come to terms with!

Trinity and Zayne are my favorite characters, even though Trin grated on my nerves with all the jealousy and insecurities. Zayne has the patience of a Saint (I guess quite literally now) because I probably would’ve smacked Trinity with all the crap she pulled.

The cliffhanger on this sucker after TWO major events?!? Sweet Lord I was not ready and I don’t know whether to wallow in pity, cry (understatement of the year), or just close my laptop until June...

Speechless is what I am after this emotional rollercoaster.

Jennifer L. Armentrout is an auto buy for me! This did not disappoint. I love the characters and her writing and the story.... Wow! The third book cannot come fast enough!! Definitely recommend!

I received this ARC from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Inkyard Press for letting me read a copy of Rage and Ruin early! This book came out on June 9th, but I’ve been so busy with other things in life that I finally finished it this past weekend, and man y’all, you need to make sure you’re not sleeping on it like I was!

Rage and Ruin 4.5/5 Stars

Summary from Goodreads: Half-angel Trinity and her bonded gargoyle protector, Zayne, have been working with demons to stop the apocalypse while avoiding falling in love. The Harbinger is coming…but who or what is it? All of humankind may fall if Trinity and Zayne can’t win the race against time as dark forces gather.

As tensions rise, they must stay close together and patrol the DC streets at night, seeking signs of the Harbinger, an entity that is killing Wardens and demons with no seeming rhyme or reason. Forbidden to be with each other, Zayne and Trinity fight their feelings and turn to unusual sources for help—the demon Roth and his cohorts. But as deaths pile up and they uncover a sinister plot involving the local high school and endangering someone dear to Zayne, Trin realizes she is being led…herded…played for some unknown end. As anger builds and feelings spiral out of control, it becomes clear that rage may be the ruin of them all.

Ok before I say anything else, holy shit, that ending killed me! Like how am I supposed to wait until next summer for book three???
Now that that is out of the way, wow, the first like ⅓ of this book maybe was a little annoying because Trinity and Zayne were annoying, and honestly, I think it’s a real testament to the fact that Jennifer L Armentrout is a great writer for her to be able to write characters that might get on our nerves a little, but they need to do that in order for us to really understand what they’re going through and for us to be able to see their growth. And man, did Trinity grow! By the end of the book, she definitely had matured and she already saw the world in shades of grey, but by the end of the book, there was so much grey there, it was great to see that character development. I also loved being introduced to more of Zayne’s life in DC and seeing how Trinity felt like an outsider and how they had to maneuver that and how there were definitely lots of missteps before they did things the right way. As always, Roth was my favorite. If you haven’t picked up this series yet, I highly recommend it!

I think this might be my favourite book in the Dark Elements/Harbinger world (so far).

As I mentioned in my review of Storm and Fury, it’s important that you read The Dark Elements trilogy before reading this series. Not only is every plot twist spoiled, you miss out on so much emotion; especially in Rage and Ruin.

I don’t want to spoil anything, but something happens in this book that is a callback to the original trilogy. I was laying here sobbing while reading this part. If you don’t read The Dark Elements first, you will completely miss how important and special it is.

And I knew JLA let us off easy with the ending in Storm and Fury. The Queen of the Brutal Cliffhanger strikes again in Rage and Ruin! It’s not her worst one ever, but COME ON ARMENTROUT! WAS THAT REALLY NECESSARY??

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Jordan – ☆☆☆☆☆
Rage and Ruin by Jennifer L. Armentrout (JLA) is the second book in her Harbinger series, which is a spin-off from The Dark Elements series. I personally read The Dark Elements series before starting Storm and Fury (book #1 in The Harbinger series) and I would encourage readers to start with The Dark Elements before diving into Rage and Ruin.

Rage and Ruin immediately picks up right where Storm and Fury ended. Zayne and Trinity are trying to work through their new roles as a bonded pair. For Zayne and Trinity this means patrolling the streets of DC together, trying to solve the mystery of the Harbinger’s identity, and avoid falling in love with each other because a Trueborn and their bonded Protector are forbidden from being together.

I absolutely love JLA and I have always found myself easily sucked into every story she weaves, and Rage and Ruin was no exception. I really enjoyed Zayne’s character when he was in The Dark Elements series, but I have found that now that I am reading his own story, I just love his character so much more! I was so ready to be diving back into Zayne and Trinity’s story. Having a Warden (gargoyle shifter) and Trueborn (half human/angel) is such a unique take on the normal shifter fantasy genre. Plus, getting some extra Roth and Layla scenes always bring a smile to my face!

After finishing Rage and Ruin, I was left reeling and I wish book three was already here. I can’t wait to read what JLA intends for the final installment in the Harbinger series! Five stars for Jennifer L. Armentrout’s Rage and Ruin.

The very first thing I did after finishing reading Rage and Ruin was going on Amazon and see when the third book is coming out (sadly, the date and title are still unknown) because what an ending!!! And what a story!!! It completely captured me for two entire days (plus the day I spent reading the first book) and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Trinity is not a normal eighteen years old girl. She is a Trueborn (half human, half angel). Her father is a powerful angel who rarely makes an appearance in her life. Her best friend betrayed her in the worst possible way. She has strong feelings for her Protector, Zayne, but they can’t be together. And she has to find and stop the Harbinger, the dark and dangerous entity who is killing Wardens and demons around Washington DC.

I really like the character of Trinity. She is badass, funny, strong, and smart. Her witty exchanges with Zayne made me laugh out loud and, in this second novel, she really grows up and develops well.

Rage and Ruin and the first book Storm and Fury are my first novels by Jennifer L. Armentrout. I really like her clear and flawless writing style, the witty and engaging characters, and the fun, gripping, and suspenseful plot, so I am definitely going to read her other novels. If you are looking for magical creatures, fantastic characters, forbidden love, and cruel villains then this is the perfect read for you. If you are looking for mystery, romance, and laughter, then this is the perfect read for you.

4 1/2 "bonded" stars!

"All that rage...It will be your ruin."

This book was everything I hoped for. It's the second in The Harbinger series, but Ms. Armentrout does a great job of recapping the previous book as a natural part of the story. In addition, this series is a spin-off of Ms. Armentrout's The Dark Elements series, which was one of my favorites! You are also given a little history from that series as well to prevent any gaps of knowledge as this story proceeds. Rage and Ruin picks up with Trinity, our favorite little "Trueborn" (half angel/half human) and her newly assigned gargoyle protector, Zayne. They are trying to navigate their way through the new protector bond they have, which is further complicated by the developing feelings they already had for one another. Of course, romantic interaction between a protector and trueblood is strictly forbidden...which makes it all the more interesting and tempting.

There's a great deal of stress in the Guardian community as news of the Harbinger is spreading. Guardians are being mysteriously killed and there is no trace of the murderer. Trinity and Zayne always seem to be a step away from something that happens. They are not only trying to figure out who the Harbinger is, but also what the end goal is and how they plan to accomplish it. Trinity is dedicated to her calling and doesn't back down easily from threats. This is making Zayne crazy as she's difficult to protect when she's continually putting her life at risk. They have to work to find a happy medium where they can co-exist and work more efficiently. Of course, the biggest weakness for Trinity is her jealousy and unrequited feelings for Zayne, coupled with her fear of what will happen if they succumb to their emotions. Zayne is hyper-focused on training Trinity and helping her learn to compensate for her failing vision. Of course, he doesn't see things the same way Trinity does which adds to the brewing frustration between these two.

It took a little while for the storyline in Rage and Ruin to fully pull me in, but once it did, I was absolutely HOOKED. I loved it! And that ending.....holy cow!!! I definitely can't wait for the next book in this series. Let's just say, it was a great ending with one heck of a cliffy! Well done Ms. Armentrout!

Thank you to NetGalley and Inkyard Press for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Trinity wakes up to the face of peanut,the ghost. Trinity is still staying with Zayne. There is another girl who can also see peanut. Alot has happened with Misha and zayne and everything has changed. Trinity loves zayne and wants to be with him but it's complicated.I was quickly interested especially after the first book.Trinity feels a connection with zayne she never felt with her protector Misha. I liked the zombies,nice added touch

RAGE AND RUIN is a fantastic sequel in THE HARBINGER series. Picking up where the first book left off, we follow Trinity as she navigates her new life with Zayne as her bonded protector. She is still dealing with her grief over Misha, her confusion over the rules, and the danger of the Harbinger. Although this one picks up right after the first, there is enough gentle reminders woven into the book (without a knowledge dump) to allow readers to remember the first book and get back into the groove quickly.

Trinity is a Trueborn, a nephilim whose father is an Archangel. She is avoiding saying- or thinking- the L-word for the guy she likes but cannot be with, Zayne. Zayne is a Warden, which is a gargoyle shifter that exists to fight demons. Trinity bonded with Zayne to save him, and at the same time, doomed their romantic relationship, as it is forbidden between Trueborns and their bonded Protectors. They are patrolling together while the Harbinger escalates his attacks and begins killing Wardens in horrific warnings. The bigger plots of the Harbinger are coming to a head, but Trinity and Zayne are having a hard time finding any patterns that might allow them to stop them.

A lot happens in this second book, and it certainly does not have middle book syndrome. The plot advances in a huge way here. There are also features by characters from the past books that are really beautifully woven into the story- allowing us to see our old favorite characters without overshadowing this book and helping to advance the plot.

What I loved: Armentrout combines humor, drama, romance, and action in a way that is truly masterful and unrivaled. This book is no different, and I loved the snark, the steamy romance (even those heavy glances and interactions add up to sexual tension you can cut with a knife), and the action that keeps the book moving very quickly. This is quite the page-turner that begs to be read in one (very long) sitting at 600 highly devourable pages.

I really loved the involvement of Roth in particular here, but also Layla and Stacey (and Roth's familiars) that give these characters new life and involvement in this world. We also see plenty of demons, spirits, witches and other creatures that really make this a well-developed and interesting world. There is really never a dull moment in this book between the laugh-out-loud moments, the nail-biting fight scenes, and the heartfelt romances.

Trinity also has retinitis pigmentosa, an invisible disability and one that Armentrout also has. Trinity considers how she looks (e.g. wearing sunglasses that help her but for which people judge her) and how people react to her limitations (e.g. when she does not see a car when trying to cross the road) without being able to tell at a glance. This theme of invisible disabilities, along with themes of deciding when to follow or break rules and what makes someone good or bad (or something inbetween), really add something thought-provoking and deeper to a book that is also a pleasure to read.

Final verdict: RAGE AND RUIN is a fantastically engaging read that will delight old and new fans of Armentrout's and this world. With plenty of banter, snark, and action, this is a book that keeps the reader on their toes- and with a bombshell ending that will leave readers begging for the next in the series. Prepare to laugh, cry, and sigh at this enthralling sequel.

Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Action, adventure, discoveries, laughter, love and heartbreak. We get all the feels in this one. Oh I am going to warn you, the end is a boom. Tissue time ! There is also a massive cliffhanger so prepare to order the next book as soon as it’s published.
Trinity and Zayne now bonded as it should have been are trying to figure this new life out. Trinity wants to stand tall and show the world she is more than what they see. Zayne wants to protect her, sometimes dimming her light. There is an emotional struggle, the kiss that was before the bond, the feels are still there but now ? Well everything has changed since then. There are forces at work that may end the world as they know it. Time to buckle up and sacrifice.
I loved how Trinity was honest with herself and moved forward with her life. She did not wallow in self pity or dwell on the unfairness of losing her eyesight. She moved forward embracing her new reality, preparing. While Zayne was sometimes too protective of her he did have faith in her abilities at the same time.
Did I have any issues, yeh. Trinity is still a bit immature, in the beginning she really got on my last nerve. Luckily that didn’t last long. Our little Trinity grew up.
I received a copy from the publisher for an honest review

Another wonderful read by Jennifer Armentrout. I really adore these characters and loved the direction the story took. That ending! I cannot wait for the third book in this trilogy and to return to characters that I really enjoy! Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange for my honest opinion.

I was given an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. I’ve finally emotionally recovered enough to write a coherent review, so here goes!

First, I have come to accept that I will never be let down by Jennifer Armentrout. I have read almost every single book she has released and can confidently say if I had to only pick 3 authors to read for the rest of my life, she would be one of them.

This book is the sequel to Storm and Fury. It picks up right after the heart breaking ending, with Misha having been killed and Zayne becoming Trinity’s protector. Que the forbidden romance aspect that I swoon SO hard for!! The angst, sexual tension and stolen moments feed my soul.

One thing I adore about JLA’s spin-off series is the cameo’s the OG characters make throughout! I loved getting to see Roth and Layla more in this book, and that they were a bigger part to the story and plot!

The ending to this book has me wrecked, still, over a week after finishing it. I desperately need book 3! The only downside to reading the arc for this is that I have an even longer wait than everyone who reads it on publication day. 😭

Overall, this book gets 5 stars from me!

Diving back into Zayne's and Trinity's story was as EPICALLY thrilling, simmering with passion, and as stupendously witty as I ever could of imagined!

Rage and Ruin was stunning and unpredictable and at the end, a true heartbreaking tear jerker. This book captivated me and twisted me up inside in the best way. Add in more fantastically interesting times with old favorites like Roth, Layla and Cayman, made this even more fantastic! I could not in a million years, predicted the ending and let me just say, it was a MIND BLOWER and RIPPED ME TO ABSOLUTE SHREDS! I now have to know what happens next with a desperation that is leaving me feeling anxious and eager and like I'm standing on the edge of a cliff. Bring on more Trin and Zayne PLEASE!

Rage and Ruin gets a WHOLE SKY FULL OF STARS! Five is definitely not a big enough number of stars for this well deserving story. Utterly heart wrenching and completely addicting!

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review


My Rating: 4 Stars


Sigh, will my love of Jennifer L Armentrout books ever end? Lets face it, the woman can write angst like nobody's business. I don't think I've ever read a book by her that didn't have me nervous throughout. Rage and Ruin, the sequel to Storm and Fury, is no exception.

At the end of the last book, we were hit with the devastating betrayal and death of Misha, followed closely by Zayne taking on the Protector bond, ensuring that he and Trinity can't ever be together. Forbidden romance is like catnip for me, so I ate up every single second of sexual tension, yearning, and angst. There was just so much emotion packed into the 600+ pages of this book that I felt as though I were in the relationship with Trinity and Zayne. 

The frequent glimpses of Roth, Layla and Cayman had me grinning constantly. Every single time one of the trio graced the pages of this book, I nearly broke out into applause. This is what I love most about a spin-off series - CAMEOS! I am so happy to report that Roth and Layla play a large part in the book and even the overall plot. 

The only thing that I didn't enjoy about this book was the sometimes juvenile remarks and narration from Trinity. She's an 18 year old character, but sometimes she would say or think things that had me cringing. While overall I am attached to her character, I found myself skimming over her incessant shit talk any time she was faced with an adversary. A couple of insults are entertaining, but after a while it got to be a bit excessive. It didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book too much, but it was something that bothered me frequently enough for a drop in star rating. 

I've read enough JLA books that I should have expected a cliff-hanger ending but...damn! That was brutal. I can't wait for the final installment in this series and am sure it will blow me away, as per usual.

I am a new Jennifer L. Armentrout fan! I kept hearing about her book From Blood and Ash, so I decided to buy it and it was incredible! I was having a really hard time getting into anything with what is going on with the pandemic and her writing just really clicked for me. So I went from reading that to Storm and Fury and fell in love. I knew I saw Rage and Ruin on NetGalley and I requested and I was accepted! I was so excited and started reading right away and couldn't put it down. This book does not disappoint! I have officially gone out and bought many of her other books now because I am just so drawn in on her writing! Huge thank you to NetGalley and Inkyard Press for this opportunity!!!

Rage & Ruin is exactly, exactly what I needed today---a distraction, a fantasy world to escape into---and Armentrout did not disappoint. Fans of this series and fans of Zayne and Roth will not be disappointed.

The beginning recapped the previous book sufficiently and I found myself right back in this battle of angels and demons and of those not-quite-human. If the third book was available, I would have dove right into the story. Waiting a year...ohhhh rats.

Critics of Armentrout will find the usual gripes present: silly dialogue and gooshy romance abound but thank goodness, I needed the lighthearted intermixed with some heavy battles. Thanks to Armentrout for helping my anxiety lift for a bit.

I was in a reading rut and this book was my cure!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy. And shout out to Lauren Burress for alerting me this book was available for request.