Author : Shantel Tessier
Length : 16h46
Narrated by : Wen Ross, Zara Eden
Category : Mystery, Thriller & Suspense
Possibility of free reading : YES
A captivating new college romance unfolds in the darkness of Shantel's latest book. While it may not have resonated with me as strongly as some of her other works, it is highly recommended for readers who enjoy dark, twisted, and dub-con (dubious consent) filled stories. However, be forewarned that this tale is far from lighthearted.
The story is set within a college backdrop and revolves around a secret society known as the Lords. Membership in this society is hereditary, and Ryat, the protagonist, follows in his father's footsteps to become one of them. To prove their worth, initiates undergo rigorous tests, pushing the boundaries of loyalty and respect. One such test involves a three-year period of abstinence from romantic relationships, culminating in the reward of being granted a chosen woman. These chosen women belong to the Lords and are at their disposal until they are married off to advance the Lords' careers and social standing.
Blakeley unwittingly captures Ryat's attention, and through a series of events, she becomes his chosen woman. In her pursuit of reclaiming control over her life, she agrees to this arrangement, unaware of the extent to which Ryat will take from her. Their relationship defies convention, delving into drug use, morally ambiguous situations, consensual non-consent, a praise kink, and violence. Their encounters are raw, intense, and at times overwhelming.
As Ryat's obsession with Blakeley deepens, what starts as a desire for revenge against a fellow Lord evolves into possessiveness, leading him to monitor her every move, drug her, and take extreme measures to protect her from a dangerous ex-partner who stops at nothing to win her back.
I'm listening to The Ritual on audiobook and I like it because I tune out on the parts where the men are arguing and my attention is caught again when something creepy is happening. Perfect to listen to while multitasking 😂
— AlisonSøns (@alisondenae) May 18, 2023
Step into the dark and enthralling world of "The Ritual", a gripping tale by Shantel Tessier, artfully narrated by Aiden Snow and Meg Sylvan. Spanning over 16 hours of intense storytelling, this audiobook invites listeners into the secretive and ominous circles of Barrington University. The narrative dives deep into the lives of its characters, marked by complex alliances and the haunting allure of power.
Begin this immersive experience with a free trial period, which you can cancel at any time. The audiobook ensures a compelling journey, with the reassurance that it will remain yours, continuing to echo the shadows of its story, even if the subscription is canceled.
Concerns about the subscription can be effortlessly managed. For guidance on cancellation or any inquiries, a detailed link is provided at the bottom of this page, ensuring your journey into the world of "The Ritual" is as uninterrupted as the suspense it promises.
Shantel Tessier's "The Ritual," brought to life through the compelling narrations of Aiden Snow and Meg Sylvan, immerses listeners in a dark, enthralling romance that explores the depths of human emotion and societal structures. Set against the backdrop of Barrington University, the story centers around the Lords, a secret society that commands power through blood oaths and ruthless control.
The plot revolves around Ryat Alexander Archer and Blakely Vaughn, whose complex relationship is fraught with manipulation, power struggles, and raw, unbridled passion. Blakely, initially drawn to Ryat’s promise of freedom, soon finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and survival. Tessier expertly navigates their turbulent relationship, highlighting themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the fight for autonomy.
Critics and readers have praised "The Ritual" for its intricate character development and the intense dynamics between its protagonists. Tessier's ability to craft multi-dimensional characters that challenge moral boundaries and evoke strong emotional responses is a standout feature. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional journeys of Ryat and Blakely, making their experiences both relatable and gripping for listeners.
However, the audiobook is not without its critiques. Some listeners have found the pacing uneven, with certain parts of the story moving slower than others, which can detract from the overall suspense. Additionally, while the ending ties up many loose ends, a few readers felt it lacked sufficient closure, leaving them wanting more from the characters’ arcs.
Overall, "The Ritual" is a compelling addition to the dark romance genre, offering a potent mix of passion, power, and psychological intrigue. Tessier’s exploration of human nature and societal power structures, combined with the evocative narration, makes this audiobook a must-listen for fans of intense, emotionally charged romances.