Seventeen-year-old Rowan Wilson's life takes an unexpected turn – she wakes up dead. Instead of peaceful nothingness, she finds herself in Limbo, then shockingly, Hell! Condemned for a childhood misdeed, Rowan's journey through the infernal realms begins, guided by the enigmatic Ally. Together, they navigate Dante's Inferno-inspired hellscape, facing a demon rebellion led by Baphomet. M.A. Ruth's Good Intentions: You Know What They Say About the Road to Hell is a fast-paced young adult fantasy brimming with action, romance, and surprising twists. This wlw story explores the consequences of choices, both big and small, as Rowan and Ally fight for survival amidst the fiery depths of Hell, battling not only demons but also their growing feelings for each other.
Review Good Intentions
Oh my gosh, I absolutely devoured Good Intentions: You Know What They Say About the Road to Hell! From the very first line – that shocking, hilarious, and completely relatable death scene – I was hooked. M.A. Ruth has a knack for writing dialogue that feels authentic and witty, even amidst the chaos of, well, being dead and in Hell. Rowan's immediate reaction to her situation – screaming, crying, attempting to wreak havoc as a ghost – perfectly captured the absurdity and terror of the situation, and I found myself laughing out loud more than once.
The premise itself is wildly imaginative. Who would have thought a stolen Chapstick could land you in Hell? It’s a brilliant twist on the classic “good intentions” theme, cleverly highlighting the often arbitrary nature of judgment and the complexities of divine justice (or lack thereof!). The entire concept is so cleverly absurd that it manages to be both thrilling and darkly comedic. The pacing is fantastic; the story races along, constantly throwing new challenges and surprising reveals at Rowan. You’re never quite sure what’s going to happen next, and that keeps you breathlessly turning the pages.
I especially appreciated the development of Rowan's character. She's not a flawless heroine; she's flawed, sarcastic, and deeply human in her reactions to the increasingly bizarre circumstances she finds herself in. Her journey through Hell isn't just a physical one; it's a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Watching her navigate the treacherous political landscape of Hell, grapple with betrayal, and ultimately find her own strength was incredibly satisfying.
The relationship between Rowan and Ally is another highlight. Their dynamic is complex and engaging, filled with both affection and tension. The author masterfully builds their connection, allowing their feelings to develop organically amidst the high-stakes action. Their bond provided a much-needed anchor of warmth and support within the fiery depths of the underworld. The hint of romance adds a delightful layer to the already compelling plot.
While some readers have mentioned minor editing issues or concerns about the currency system, these minor points didn't detract from my overall enjoyment. The story is so captivating, the characters so engaging, and the world so cleverly constructed that any minor flaws are easily overlooked. I wholeheartedly recommend Good Intentions to anyone who enjoys fast-paced, witty young adult fantasy with a dash of dark humor and a healthy dose of LGBTQ+ representation. I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment in Rowan's infernal adventures! This is a fantastic start to what promises to be a truly epic series.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.5 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 197
- Publication date: 2025
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