Sweet Ruin

A Valentine Anthology

Sweet Ruin is a dark Valentine anthology featuring 14 twisted tales by 12 hauntingly brilliant authors, all bound together by one deceptively innocent tradition… the heart-shaped chocolate box.

Behind every satin ribbon and glossy lid lurks obsession, betrayal, revenge, and desire sharpened into something dangerous. Love isn’t always sweet — sometimes it’s fatal.

From whispered promises to deadly secrets, these stories prove that romance can rot, passion can poison, and the prettiest gifts often hide the darkest intentions.

Open the box… if you dare.

Authors:
KIRSTEN GALE, JED KENT, ALI CLARK, J.D. SETZER,
KENDRA SMART, JIM DONOHUE, ABBY WOODLAND,
ANDY HOLBERRY, MICHELLE CARBAJAL,
ASHLEY MARIE, SASSYGIRL, MELINDA POUNCEY

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Available in: Paperback, Ebook

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Reader Reviews

4.9

7 ratings

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Kari B.

Inside Story

Aug 15, 2026

This is a great anthology! Many of these writers have been on my tbr for a while, but I have not read anything by them yet.

I wanted to read this one because Jed Kent is one of my go-to authors and he never disappoints.

Now I will be moving several of these writers up on my tbr! Some wonderfully written stories in this anthology, all joined together by Valentine's Day chocolates.

If you are a fan of horror or thrillers, this is a great anthology!

Tiffany R.

Inside Story

Aug 15, 2026

This book was gripping. I love seeing authors coming together to bring us spooky-goodness. I highly recommend this book.

Natasha S.

Inside Story

Aug 15, 2026

This anthology is absolutely fantastic! There’s something so enjoyable about diving into a collection of short stories crafted by a wide range of talented authors. Each piece brings its own unique voice and perspective, making the entire experience feel fresh and unpredictable. I found myself completely absorbed in every single story—each one was a gripping journey filled with unexpected twists and deliciously dark undertones. From start to finish, the collection kept me hooked, leaving me eager to see what the next tale would reveal. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

tanya k.

Inside Story

Aug 15, 2026

I really enjoyed each of the stories in this anthology! They were all wonderfully written.

I loved how they were all linked by the boxes of chocolate, however this also threw me off a little because the stories contradicted each other so much. For example, in some, there was a shop and in others there was not. I know it's an anthology, I think maybe I expected the thread to be more consistent if it was going to continue through each story.

Having said that, I looked forward to seeing what vengeance those boxes would bring!

Brandy A.

Inside Story

Aug 15, 2026

This was such a great collaboration between 12 authors with each story addicting and leaves you questioning how bad can a book of chocolates be? I liked how all the stories used the same chocolate shop name and used the same design of the boxes but added their own twist in their own stories! They are all great short story reads and have you hooked with just one page!

Stephanie B.

Inside Story

Aug 15, 2026

This was an extremely enjoyable read. I feel like I may have been the target audience when trying to get new readers to follow the collaborated authors. I saw an opportunity to purchase the book before the release date and took it. I am not one to usually add physical books to my collection after reading it, but I couldn't resist. New authors to love on and grow my to be read pile. If you a looking for a valentine thrill ride take your chance on this anthology.

Mandy S.

Inside Story

Aug 15, 2026

Sinister, seductive, and impossible to put down! This anthology is perfect for readers who like their chocolates laced with menace.