while I enjoyed many aspects of this book (the atmosphere, the dark academia vibes, and pacing) there were just a few things that fell a little short for me. I did really love Salem as a character. I felt that caz just lacked any depth and felt like I’ve read this same type of MMC over and over again. Salem really was the reason I kept reading. I also wanted to see how it wrapped up. This is the first time I’ve read from this author and I would totally pick up more of her work. If you are looking for a quick, fun time, then this one may be for you!

Loved this dark romance!!! Enjoy the touch her and you die troupe. Many layers to this book. Sometimes suspensful, dark and sad. New favourite authour.

I’ve been reading works from this author since they were on tumblr and ao3, so it feels special to be reviewing an ARC from them this many years later when they’re a bestseller. Like all of RuNyx’s stories, I found Enigma to be propulsive, sexy, and understanding of human loneliness and the power of healing. Did I find the story or characters especially interesting or unique? No, but that’s not why I picked this book up in the first place. I wanted dark academia, a secret society mystery, found family, and a love story between two broken people loving one another into self love. And that’s exactly what I got.

Based on the portions of Gothikana that I read, the writing style carries---and actually feels more polished, still leaning narrative. I think fans will be pleased.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for the ARC.

I picked up this book because I read Gothikana by Runyx and loved the dark academia setting and the romance that was involved. This one while very similar to Gothikana in terms of being dark academia, solving murders, and a romance heavy added plot, Enigma had it's own quirks that I loved. Caz and Salem will hold a special place in my heart now.

A lovely, dark, and haunting read. I loved it from page one to the end. I love that the main characters accepted each other for who they were and loved them for it.

This book is dark, in all the right ways. It’s not just a romance; it’s a descent into a labyrinth of mystery, secrets, and passion. The chemistry between Salem and Cazimir is electric, there’s an undeniable pull between them, filled with tension that simmers with every page. The dark academia setting is perfect for this sinister love story, steeped in mystery and dripping with atmosphere. I loved the slow build-up, where every revelation feels earned and every character feels like they’re hiding something bigger. But it’s the layers of suspense, those chilling twists and dark truths that kept me on edge. The tension between Salem and Cazimir isn’t just physical, it’s emotional, psychological, and it’s deliciously slow-burning. I love how doesn’t rush into a happily-ever-after. If you’re a fan of morally grey characters, high-stakes intrigue, and an explosive love story, this is one you won’t want to miss.

It's been a while since I picked up a book and finished it in one sitting, but that's exactly what happened with *Enigma*. The story follows Salem as she enrolls in an exclusive, old-money, collegiate academy steeped in tradition—a place where she hopes to study forensics and uncover the truth behind her sister's death at the same school two years prior. Along the way, she develops a slow-burning, "enemies-to-lovers" romance with Caz and forges her first-ever friendships with Aditi and Melissa.

The novel kept me hooked with its twisty plot and emotional undertones. What truly stood out were the themes of loneliness, love, and friendship, especially the nuanced way the author explored how loneliness manifests in different contexts. These moments felt raw and genuine, making the story resonate deeply.

However, I found the mystery elements somewhat underwhelming. Key parts of the plot—particularly those involving Salem’s father and his death—felt underdeveloped. I also wanted more clarity about what happened to Salem when she was twelve, as this aspect of her backstory seemed hastily and vaguely wrapped up by the end. These gaps left me craving more depth and detail in what was otherwise an engaging narrative.

Despite these shortcomings, I would still recommend this book to adult readers who enjoy dark, twisty plots and stories with steamy romance. A note of caution: the author includes content warnings at the beginning, and I strongly recommend reviewing them before diving in.

Thank you to NetGalley, RuNyx, and Tor Publishing Group for an advanced eBook in exchange for my honest review.