A Book Review Of Sorts
(The Ritual by shantel_tessierauthor
I read a review that said Ryot was "a bit more than morally grey."
Me: Oh perfect. I love a morally grey book man.
Also me, 200 pages later:
WHY AM I LIKE THIS.
This book was the definition of "a train wreck you can't stop watching."
Was it unhinged? Yes.
Did I inhale it anyway? Also yes.
Would I recommend it? ... listen. We need to talk first.
And I just have to say... a 4-star chaotic morally-grey train wreck read is PEAK
February energy. Very "it's cold outside but I'm emotionally spiraling indoors."
Reading Shantel Tessier’s "The Ritual" feels like stepping into a chaotic yet addictive whirlwind of dark romance and morally grey characters. The protagonist Ryot’s complexities and questionable choices challenge typical hero archetypes, offering a fresh, gripping experience. What struck me most was how the story creates this intense atmosphere where you are both appalled and fascinated—it's like watching a train wreck unfold in slow motion, and you can't look away. What makes "The Ritual" stand out is its raw portrayal of emotional spiraling against a cold, unforgiving backdrop—very fitting for February vibes, when gloominess blends perfectly with turbulent feelings. The novel balances moments of intense drama with glimpses into its characters' vulnerabilities, making the morally ambiguous nature of Ryot more relatable and human. From the OCR content of the book’s excerpts, it’s clear that the storyline involves gritty scenes—security guards intervening, physical confrontations, and emotional tension—that amplify the dark, chaotic mood. The inclusion of dual POV adds depth, allowing readers to see different perspectives and fully appreciate the complex dynamics at play. This layered narrative enriches the reading experience by showing not just conflicted behaviors but their motivations and consequences. If you’re a lover of dark college romance with strong, flawed characters who live in the grey areas between good and bad, this book will resonate deeply. It's not just about romance; it’s about survival, control, and navigating dangerous emotional terrain. Be prepared for an intense ride mixing possessiveness, jealousy, and passion, all wrapped in a plot that challenges your expectations. Personally, I found "The Ritual" to be a standout in its genre—it may not be for the faint of heart, but if you appreciate stories that provoke strong feelings and invite reflection on moral complexity, it’s worth the read. However, a heads-up: this is a book to talk about and process after finishing, as it stirs up many questions about character ethics and emotional chaos. Overall, a 4-star read that perfectly captures the essence of a dark, spicy romance gone gloriously unhinged.