The Ruins Beneath Us

Gr 10 Up–TikTok star Sloan’s debut novel is a fast-paced romantasy. Lyria lives in seclusion in the mountains with her healer mother, hiding from the hostile human Verdinae monarchy. The Elven kingdom of Evermore was conquered by the cruel Verdin who massacred the Elves—especially those with special abilities, or Talents. Lyria’s uneventful and isolated life is changed forever when she encounters and uses her secret and dangerous Talent to rescue and heal the injured young Prince Finneas. Lyria connects with Finn, but is stunned when he requests her service as the palace apothecary to finish the cure for a spreading plague. Eager for change, she seizes the opportunity and travels to Crown City, the seat of her enemies. Lyria soon finds herself deep in the dangers and complexities of concealing her identity and working with the antagonistic Head Healer, Cygnus. Lyria’s feelings grow to something more for Finn, a situation complicated by his unpredictability and the impossibility of a relationship. Deep secrets abound, and Lyria’s trust and all that she knows will be challenged. Lyria is relatable and flawed; she struggles with her insecurities, conflicting thoughts and feelings, ignorance, and upbringing, and is impacted by the prejudice, violence, and hatred towards Elves. The dramatic conclusion will leave readers looking for the next installment. Race is ambiguous, except for a crowd description of “a mixture of skin tones.” Lyria is described as having brown hair and freckled skin.