Holly Myers' Duke of Ruin is a compelling exploration of forbidden love set against the backdrop of the mafia underworld. The novel deftly combines elements of romance, suspense, and intrigue, creating a narrative that is both captivating and emotionally resonant. At its core, the book is a poignant examination of identity, loyalty, and the lengths one will go to for love.

The story centers on the protagonist, who is caught in the crossfire of familial expectations and personal desires. He is bound by duty to marry Sasha Moretti, a union designed to cement peace between two powerful mafia families. This arrangement is not just a marriage; it is a strategic alliance, a performance of perfection that demands the suppression of his true self. The protagonist's internal conflict is palpable, and Myers skillfully portrays the tension between his public obligations and private yearnings.

Enter Noah Andriotta, a character who is as enigmatic as he is alluring. Noah represents everything the protagonist is not supposed to want—freedom, authenticity, and a life unburdened by the weight of family legacy. Their relationship is fraught with danger, not just because of the societal taboos it breaks, but because Noah himself is shrouded in mystery. Myers does an excellent job of building suspense around Noah's character, gradually revealing layers of his past and the secrets he harbors.

The chemistry between the protagonist and Noah is electric, and Myers captures the intensity of their connection with vivid prose. Their romance is a dance of desire and deception, each moment charged with the risk of discovery. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable, making for a gripping read that keeps the audience on edge.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of themes such as identity and self-discovery. The protagonist's journey is not just about love; it is about finding the courage to embrace his true self in a world that demands conformity. This theme is universal and resonates deeply, making the character's struggles relatable to anyone who has ever felt trapped by societal expectations.

Myers also delves into the theme of trust, a crucial element in any relationship but especially so in one as precarious as that between the protagonist and Noah. As secrets are unveiled and motives questioned, the protagonist must decide whether to trust Noah, a decision that could have life-or-death consequences. This exploration of trust adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, enriching the reader's experience.

The setting of Montcove, with its underworld of violence and loyalty, serves as a fitting backdrop for the story. Myers paints a vivid picture of this city, where power dynamics are constantly shifting and danger lurks around every corner. The setting enhances the novel's tension and underscores the protagonist's predicament, highlighting the precariousness of his situation.

In terms of character development, Myers excels at creating multi-dimensional characters who are both flawed and relatable. The protagonist's evolution from a dutiful son to a man willing to defy his family for love is portrayed with nuance and depth. Noah, too, is a well-crafted character, his complexity adding intrigue and unpredictability to the story.

Comparatively, Duke of Ruin shares thematic similarities with other works in the genre, such as Call Me by Your Name by André Aciman and The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller, both of which explore forbidden love and the journey towards self-acceptance. However, Myers' novel stands out for its unique setting and the high-stakes world of the mafia, which adds an element of danger and suspense not typically found in traditional romance narratives.

Overall, Duke of Ruin is a beautifully written novel that offers a fresh take on the themes of love and identity. Holly Myers has crafted a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned. It is a testament to the power of love to transcend boundaries and the courage it takes to be true to oneself. For readers who enjoy romance with a twist of suspense and a deep dive into the complexities of human emotion, this book is a must-read.