Ruined by Jus Accardo

***1/2

Hell is looking for a way to break loose...

Jax lost the genetic lottery.  Descended from Cain, the world's first murderer, he's plagued by a curse that demands violence in exchange for his happiness.  He left everything behind, including the girl he loved, but thriving on the pain of others is lonely... And it's killing him.

After a series of heartbreaking losses, Samantha put rubber to pavement and headed for college as fast as her clunker could carry her.  But she can't outrun her problems.  When an attack at school drives her back home, she's thrown into the path of a past - and a guy - she's been trying to forget.  

Sam strains Jax's control over his darkness, but running isn't an option this time.  Someone - or, something - followed her home from school: a ruthless monster with a twisted plan centuries in the making.  Forced together to survive, and fighting an attraction that could destroy them both, Jax and Sam must stop a killer bent on revenge.  

Ruined is Jus Accardo's first foray into New Adult and it's a success.  Ruined is dark, mysterious and sexy.  There are some predictable plot points, but plenty of twists and turns that will keep you guessing.  Jax's family dynamic alone keeps you interested.  The relationship between Jax and Chase (the modern Cain and Abel) is intense and your heart will break for the brothers and their uncle.  

As for Sam and Jax, it's a tale as old as time.  Two best friends fall in love, boy shares his soul with a demon that feeds off pain and suffering, boy leaves so that he doesn't kill everyone he loves as the demon demands.  Girl, heartbroken tries to move on, but is attacked.  Boy returns because of family obligations and stays to protect the girl.  Well, you'll just have to read Ruined if you want to know what happens after that.  :-)  

If you are looking for a New Adult taking on the fight between good and evil, you should check out Ruined.  I cannot wait to see what is next for Jax.  

~Shel