Author Becca Ryden Crafts a Masterpiece in Her Debut Novel ‘Desperation’

Becca Ryden enters the romantasy scene with a compelling blend of suspense, romance, and dark fantasy in her debut novel, “Desperation.” This book marks the first installment of The Animus trilogy, which introduces readers to a meticulously crafted world where ancient deities, hidden truths, and complex relationships shape the destiny of its characters. Ryden’s narrative weaves together elements of magic, betrayal, and the enduring power of love, setting the stage for an enthralling series.

Unraveling the Past: The Core Conflict

Desperation follows the life of Princess Charlotte Valois, a figure marred by tragedy and misconception. The narrative begins with a deeply disturbing incident: Charlotte finds her fiancé, Prince Aurek Romanov, beside her father’s lifeless body. Convinced of Aurek’s guilt, Charlotte flees, setting the stage for a life of hiding and heartache. This single event casts a long shadow over Charlotte’s life, influencing every decision she makes thereafter.

Over a decade later, Aurek discovers Charlotte’s location. Determined to protect her and prove his innocence, he assumes the identity of a bodyguard. This choice introduces a complex layer to the story—Aurek must now protect Charlotte from emerging threats while concealing his true identity. Among these threats is Maelstrom, a formidable ex-god intent on claiming Charlotte for his own sinister purposes. Ryden skillfully balances the romantic tension and suspense, keeping readers engaged with the dual narratives of hidden love and looming danger.

The Characters’ Emotional Labyrinth

At its core, Desperation is a slow-burn romance fraught with emotional and physical obstacles. Charlotte and Aurek’s relationship, encapsulated in their separation and Aurek’s disguise, forms the emotional backbone of the novel. Ryden explores themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption, as each character grapples with their perceptions versus the reality of their past actions and current desires.

Charlotte, once a princess with a future clearly laid out, evolves into a character of strength and resilience. Her journey from a frightened runaway to a woman facing her past and present fears is depicted with depth and empathy. Aurek, on the other hand, portrays the anguish of someone wrongfully accused, striving to reclaim his place in Charlotte’s life. His dual role as protector and accused adds a poignant layer to his interactions with Charlotte, challenging readers to consider the weight of misjudgment and forgiveness.

Tension and Twists: The Series Setup

Ryden’s decision to end the book on a cliffhanger is a strategic one, ensuring readers’ anticipation for the subsequent books in the trilogy. The unresolved tensions between Charlotte and Aurek, coupled with the impending threat from Maelstrom, create a palpable urgency that resonates beyond the final page. The complex interplay of characters’ histories and hidden identities promises a rich ground for further development in the series.

“Desperation” not only sets the romantic and fantastical stakes high but also introduces a host of secondary characters and subplots that enrich the main narrative. These elements are woven into the backdrop of a world where modernity meets myth, technology intermingles with magic, and vampires roam the shadows. This blend of the old and new, the mythical and the everyday, makes the setting of The Animus series uniquely intriguing.

A Modern Fantasy with Classic Roots

Ryden’s world-building is notable for its integration of contemporary elements with those of classic fantasy. The setting, while rooted in a modern context, harks back to the 1800s in its aesthetic and moral complexities. This temporal duality adds a unique flavor to the story, offering a fresh take on the romantasy genre. Moreover, the inclusion of dark themes—such as the exploration of trauma and deceit—provides a gritty realism that will appeal to readers looking for more than just a fantastical escape.

Readers sensitive to darker narratives should approach with caution, as Ryden does not shy away from exploring the darker sides of her characters and their worlds. However, for those enthralled by stories of profound emotional journeys and epic fantasy landscapes, Desperation delivers a powerful combination of both.

Conclusion: A Promising Start to a New Trilogy

Becca Ryden’s Desperation serves as a strong foundation for what promises to be a gripping romantasy trilogy. The novel’s rich narrative, combined with its intricate character development and suspenseful plot twists, ensures that readers will be eagerly awaiting the next installment. Ryden’s debut is a testament to her ability to craft a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, making Desperation a must-read for fans of the genre.

 

We had the privilege of interviewing Becca Ryden. Here are excerpts from the interview.

Hi Becca, It’s great to have you with us today! Please share about yourself with our readers.

Hello! I am a fan of anything romantasy, and an avid listener of spicy audiobooks. I write romantasy packed with swords, magic, and the occasional mooing cow. My characters are real, usually have a dark background, and are always looking for love (even if they don’t know it yet). Whether it be a high-stakes chase or a fight for the last cookie, action lives in every scene. I’ve been writing since I was old enough to type, but with years of military service to temper my skills, my stories are more than fiction—they’re a possible reality. When not writing books, you’ll find me playing with my fur babies, running from a spider, or saving the universe, one NPC at a time.

Please tell us about your book, Desperation.

Desperation is the first book in the Animus series, and a lifelong dream finally made real. It tells the story of a girl who was forced to become an adult at a young age and survived some terrible events to become an independent and rightfully stubborn woman. Add in a 300 hundred-year-old warrior, and you have a mix destined to clash in all the delightful ways. Spice it up with royalty, magic, the elements, and vampires, and you have a slow-burn start to an amazing trilogy.

Please share your journey with our readers.

I started writing when I was barely a teenager. Fueled by dreams of the fantastic and all those dreamy men on TV (thank you, Buffy), I grew up inspired to find love. I wrote my first book in high school. It was an interesting mix of teenage hormones and unrealistic expectations, but it was my baby. After joining the U.S. Army and serving my country, I picked that book back up and cringed. Gah! It was terrible. But it inspired me to make it even better. Now I have Desperation, and the rest of the story is just waiting to find its way on paper.

What are the strategies that helped you become successful in your journey?

Strategies aren’t the right way to describe what I did and what keeps me going. Like most introverts, I recharge by doing things on my own. Writing is my escape from stress, and thanks to an amazing group of supporting people, putting myself out there was a success. If I had to claim a strategy, I’d like to partially quote the live-action Cinderella, “have courage, and be kind,” and never give up on your dreams.

Any message for our readers?

You can do it! Whatever it is that you want, strive for it. Some days will be harder than others, and some will be absolutely impossible. Don’t let that drag you down. One foot in front of the other, or you can be a crab and walk sideways. That’s okay. Just keep moving and channel your inner Dori.

Thank you so much, Becca, for giving us your precious time! We wish you all the best for your journey ahead!