Amanda Zuelo's Ruins is a compelling exploration of love, duty, and the shadows that linger in the human heart. The novel deftly weaves a narrative that is as much about the internal struggles of its characters as it is about the external forces that threaten to tear them apart. Through the dual perspectives of Santo and Vasilisa, Zuelo crafts a story that is both intimate and expansive, drawing readers into a world where light and darkness are in constant conflict.

At the heart of Ruins is the complex relationship between Santo and Vasilisa. Santo, a man who has lived in darkness for as long as he can remember, is a character shrouded in mystery and contradiction. His belief that "a wife is a weakness and love is a liability" sets the stage for a narrative that is as much about self-discovery as it is about romance. Santo's internal conflict is palpable, and Zuelo does an excellent job of portraying his struggle to reconcile his desire for Vasilisa with his fear of vulnerability. The character of Santo is reminiscent of the brooding heroes found in the works of authors like Sylvia Day and E.L. James, yet Zuelo manages to infuse him with a unique depth that sets him apart.

Vasilisa, on the other hand, is a character driven by duty, yet yearning for a love that transcends the mundane. Her initial perception of Santo as "intimidating yet intelligent, distant yet magnetic" captures the essence of her fascination with him. As the story unfolds, Vasilisa's journey becomes one of self-discovery and empowerment. She is not merely a passive participant in her own story; rather, she actively seeks to understand the man behind the mask. This quest for understanding is both her strength and her vulnerability, as it leads her into the darker recesses of Santo's world. Vasilisa's character development is a testament to Zuelo's skill in crafting female protagonists who are both relatable and inspiring.

The themes of light and darkness are prevalent throughout Ruins, serving as metaphors for the internal and external conflicts faced by the characters. Santo's life in darkness is not just a physical reality but a psychological state that he has embraced as a means of survival. Vasilisa's introduction into his life represents a beacon of light, challenging the shadows that Santo has carefully constructed around himself. This interplay between light and darkness is reminiscent of the works of authors like J.R. Ward and Nalini Singh, who similarly explore the duality of human nature in their narratives.

Zuelo's writing is both evocative and immersive, drawing readers into a world that is richly detailed and vividly imagined. Her ability to convey the emotional depth of her characters is one of the novel's greatest strengths. The dialogue between Santo and Vasilisa is charged with tension and longing, capturing the complexity of their relationship. Zuelo's prose is lyrical yet grounded, allowing readers to fully engage with the story's emotional core.

One of the most compelling aspects of Ruins is its exploration of the concept of duty versus desire. Both Santo and Vasilisa are bound by obligations that dictate their actions, yet their desire for one another challenges these constraints. This tension between duty and desire is a common theme in romance literature, yet Zuelo approaches it with a fresh perspective that adds depth to the narrative. The stakes are high, and the consequences of their choices are significant, adding a layer of suspense that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.

In comparison to other stories in the genre, Ruins stands out for its nuanced portrayal of its protagonists and its exploration of themes that resonate on a universal level. While it shares similarities with the works of authors like Sylvia Day and J.R. Ward, Zuelo's novel is distinguished by its focus on the internal landscapes of its characters. The psychological depth of Santo and Vasilisa's journey is what ultimately sets Ruins apart, making it a standout addition to the romance genre.

Overall, Amanda Zuelo's Ruins is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to readers who enjoy stories of love, redemption, and the complexities of the human heart. Its richly drawn characters, evocative prose, and exploration of universal themes make it a memorable read that lingers long after the final page is turned. For those seeking a romance that delves into the shadows and emerges into the light, Ruins is a journey worth taking.