After a string of historical romance duds, Mimi Matthews has restored my delight with the genre. I should get around to her backlog, and I need the sequel QUICKLY - because I think ‘rules for ruin’ is so well done. The chemistry, the characterization, the subplots, and motivations, I found nothing lacking. This villain is the first one in the genre I can remember actually finding intimidating, which was fun. The two leads made so much sense together and were easy to root for. I really need the sequel - the preview at the end seemed just as good. 4.5 stars.

I'm not always in the mood for a closed door romance, but when I am, it's highly likely I'm picking up a Mimi Matthews. This is the first book in a new series, The Crinoline Academy. It features Effie Flite, one of the orphans raised in the Academy. There, she learned decorum but also feminist principles, fighting skills, lockpicking expertise, and more. Her benefactress, Miss Corvus, has identified Efie's final job: ruining Lord Compton. But while Effie is investigating the man to bring him down, she meets Gabriel Royce. Gabriel is a disreputable bookie who has his own plans for the future - and unfortunately, his plans involve protecting Lord Compton's reputation.

This felt more like a 2020s historical romance than an homage to Victorian literature the way some of Matthews's books can - and honestly? I loved that. I feel that sometimes her books can focus in victoriana minutiae (like the Victorian focus on seances and spiritualism, or deep dives into Victorian professions) and leave the central romance to the side. But here, both Effie and Gabriel take center stage. (Don't worry, though - there are still plenty of victoriana tidbits to consume, like balloon ascensions and tightrope walkers.)

Effie is a really fun character who's both very competent and also flawed (she's not a super thief, an amazing investigator, or a stellar actress, but she gets the job done JUST FINE). And while Gabriel is criminal-adjacent, he's not a crime lord or trying to escape his reputation and past; he just wants to use his influence to make the slum of St. Giles livable for its residents (including himself).

But above all, this is a romance. The sexual tension between Effie and Gabriel is thick. I loved the way Gabriel tries to give Effie what she needs, just as she's trying to figure out what she wants from their relationship so she can let him know how to do it.

Honestly really loved this one, and I can see it becoming one of my new Mimi Matthews faves.

This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.

Thank you @BerkleyRomance for the free book! #BerkleyBookstagram #BerkleyIG #berkley #berkleyromance #RulesforRuin #MimiMatthews

𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐑𝐮𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐑𝐮𝐢𝐧
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐌𝐢𝐦𝐢 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐰𝐬
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝟐𝟎, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

5 ★

Rules for Ruin is book one in The Crinoline Academy series by author Mimi Matthews. It’s a historical romance book, which combines two of my favorite genres into one, and I loved it! My only regret is that this is my first book by the author and I feel like I have been missing out for way too long. This book had amazing themes and focused on taking down the patriarchy and women’s rights. It was fast-paced and I loved everything about it! You better believe I’ll be reading the next book in the series (and going back to read some more Mimi Matthews books, too)!

🖤Historical Fiction
🖤Enemies to Lovers
🖤Morally Grey MMC
🖤Feminist Themes
🖤Great Banter
🖤No Spice/Closed Door

If this one is not on your radar, it needs to be! If you’re looking for a new series to start, this is it. I’ve read a handful of historical romance books, and I love how this one had all of the chemistry AND so much more! Mimi Matthews, I’m a fan!

4.5 stars rounded up. This was my first book from Matthews and it was absolutely delightful! I honestly wasn't 100% sure what to expect going into it. I knew that there was an academy for girls that may or may not be at opposition with the FMC's love interest, so I wasn't 100% sure how much of an academy type setting we would get. Is there any bit academia/ dark academia or is it 100% historical romance. And the answer is-- this is 100% historical romance. Which works out well for me, since I love historical romance.

With respect to themes, Rules for Ruin reminds me a bit of the Evie Dunmore books, but also Sarah Maclen's Hell's Belles series (though not as silly), except that this is closed door. There is a lot of championing for women's rights, and I think that themes are ones I could resonate with, even in modern day. Both the FMC and MMC had a lot in common regarding their upbringing, and I honestly think that's part of what made them perfect for one another. There was so much to love about Effie as a character. She was principled but also tenacious and loyal and a little hard on herself, but I honestly loved her. And her dog, Franc. I would read more books in this series just to spend more time with Effie and Franc. the MMC, Gabriel, had a bit to overcome personality wise for me. He kept putting his goals and aspirations (which were 100% worth while) above Effie's, and I didn't love that. But he got there in the end. All in all, I really enjoyed Rules for Ruin. I am 100% planning to read the next book in the series.

Thank you so much to Matthews, Berkley (Berkley partner), and netgalley for the gifted copy!

Ooh this was a delight. This was my first Mimi Matthews book, but it certainly won't be my last. I loooved the setting and the premise of the Crinoline Academy - teaching these young women to rise above what society expects of them and hone their talents for the greater good (down with the patriarchy). The passion with which they talk about their goals and how the law treats women was so powerful. And then the inner conflict Euphemia is going through because she has such a strong urge to learn about her past made for a lot of drama. Now all of that - PLUS meeting a dashing and dangerous man who will do anything for his own causes?! Their interactions were fabulous and giving so much yearning. So much inner conflict which lead to more longing. The way they slowly slowly and then all at once fell in love was such a delight. The way you could tell they cared so deeply for each other, above their own aims. I just loved them and this world and I cannot wait for more!

Raised in a girl's school that teaches women to think for themselves- along with teaching a few select students more useful life skills like picking locks- Effie Flite is ordered by the school's headmistress to take down a viscount standing in the way of a Parliamentary bill that will mean married women get to keep control over their own property. It's an assignment that appeals to her not only as a woman, but as a way of gaining her freedom and making her own way in the world, and Effie is willing to take it. After all, the viscount isn't exactly an innocent man.

But Gabriel Royce needs those secrets to stay hidden so he can blackmail the viscount for his own ends. The most powerful man in St. Giles, Gabriel has plans and he needs a few rich politicians to achieve those plans. When Gabriel and Effie meet, each knows a worthy opponent when they see one. And the longer their battle of wills and wits continues, the more they realize they may just be each other's perfect match.

I absolutely fell in love with these two. Effie and Gabriel are dedicated to their respective causes, stubborn, intelligent loners and absolutely sure they are hardened cases against the outside world. Put them in the same room and BAM! Sparks ignite before either one knows what's happened. Effie challenges Gabriel as no one ever has, refusing to back down from her own agenda and forcing him to rethink his own plans. Gabriel is overprotective, finds intelligence in a woman total catnip, and is willing to put himself in situations that could get him rejected to make sure Effie is ok without even thinking about it. They share bone-melting kisses and her poodle Franc likes him. Clearly, these two are meant for each other.

A clash of business and personal interests, strong personalities, delightfully barbed wits, and high-stakes adventure, this is a romance not to be missed! Perhaps Mimi Matthews best book yet!

If you like women who believe knowledge is power, you'll love the women of the Crinoline Academy.

On the outskirts of London sits a seemingly innocuous institution with a secretive aim—train young women to distract, disrupt, and discredit the patriarchy. Outraged by a powerful politician’s systematic attack on women’s rights, the Academy summons its brightest—and most bitter—pupil to infiltrate the odious man’s inner circle. A deal is struck: bring down the viscount, and Miss Euphemia Flite will finally earn her freedom.

But betting shop owner Gabriel Royce has other plans. The viscount is the perfect pawn to insulate Gabriel’s underworld empire from government interference. He’s not about to let some crinoline-clad miss destroy his carefully constructed enterprise—no matter how captivating he finds her threats.

From the rookeries of St. Giles to the ballrooms of Mayfair, Euphemia and Gabriel engage in a battle of wits and wills that’s complicated by a blossoming desire. Soon Euphemia realizes it’s not the broken promises to her Academy sisters she should fear. . . . It’s the danger to her heart.

Mimi Matthews has done it yet again, she has penned a thrilling, interesting romance full of multiple facets of society, intrigue, justice, and plenty of swoon. I highly recommend Rules for Ruin, and I'm excited for this new series.

One thing I love about Mimi Matthews books is that she doesn’t shy away from imbuing the text with the real life struggles of women, the injustices they faced, and sharing history woven into the lives and loves of her fictional characters. Her writing really is peak historical fiction, and historical romance.

Effie is brave and bold, and able to hold her own against both Gabriel Royce's criminal intensity, and the true villains of the story as well. Not only is Effie brave, she is also human and vulnerable when she needs to be. Her emotional growth in the book was extremely satisfying. I also just love her and Gabriel together. They remind me a little of the fiery, passionate intensity of Margaret and Nicholas in Mimi's Gentleman Jim.

Gabriel is such a lovely character, with flaws aplenty, and such courage and determination. Despite his perceived rough manner, he has a truly kind and golden heart beneath his dangerous demeanor. He isn't selfish. He wants positive change for society's marginalised, and ultimately he makes good decisions to help bring about necessary changes.

I could say more about Effie and Gabriel and all the lovely banter between them, but I don't want to include spoilers. Perhaps I can describe some of those interactions as leaning into the cinnamon roll hero, disguised as a seeming villain, wkth a touch of "if you touch her, I will kill you" vibe, quite literally meant. Certain counters in bars is all I'll say.

Another thing I really loved about the novel were all the nuanced and interesting characters and events that move throughout the story and plot. The world feels so real and fleshed out, as if I could step into another room and find this world really there. One often talks about world-building in fantasy, but I think it is equally important in historical fiction. While the book is set in a real time, the people and events are primarily fictional, and yet they do not feel that way at all. Mimi Matthews is truly an excellent writer.

I could definitely write more, but I'll restrain myself. I do recommend you read this book.

Thank you to Mimi Matthews, Berkley Publishing, and NetGalley for providing this eARC for review. All opinions are my own.

As a big fan of the author’s Belles of London series, I was eager to see what she’d do next…and this new series kicks off beautifully!

Effie Flite has spent the last five years as a lady’s companion, hoping to find a more stable position for herself and her beloved French poodle, Franc. When she’s summoned back to the orphanage where she grew up, she assumes it’s for a teaching role. Instead, her former headmistress has other plans: Effie is to be introduced to society. It’s a shock-but also a chance to finally uncover the truth about her origins.

Gabriel Royce, like Effie, was raised an orphan. The two cross paths briefly at a ball, but it’s in the library where their dynamic truly takes off. Their conversation crackles with wit and flirtation, laced with curiosity and caution. Each is trying to size the other up- and what a discovery it becomes.

The story unfolds with secrets, scandal, and a shared mission to expose a true villain-a threat not just to Effie, but to others as well. Gabriel doesn’t hesitate to put himself on the line for her, including one unforgettable moment involving a balloon and a daring show of loyalty.

Effie is smart, outspoken, and capable-a woman who moves through the world with confidence, a sense of justice, and a bit of detective flair. Gabriel is strong, and steady, and tender…a perfect complement to her fire.

Franc, Effie’s devoted poodle, is a charming constant, adding both heart and humor.

The novel delivers it all: mystery, romance, a breathtaking balloon ride, and a bond between two kindred spirits. It’s a beautifully woven story of identity, justice, and love-made richer by Effie’s passion for women’s equality and the fight for property rights.

“Like recognizes like” -and Effie and Gabriel absolutely meet their match in each other. Loved every second! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Having read a ton of Matthews books, I am always excited for a new release from her. However, I was especially excited about Rules for Ruin since it is so different from other books she's written before. Secret societies and suffrage, plus a sweeping romance too.

Matthews describes the book as Great Expectations meets Peaky Blinders and I would say that's accurate. I really enjoyed the vibes of the world yet still felt grounded and historically true. It was easy to imagine and kept the world interesting.

Effie and Gabriel will steal readers hearts. I adored these two. Gabriel is crazy about Effie and their dynamic is wonderful. They were entertaining and swoon worthy. I also liked that they had conflicts and that their union wasn't easy. These two really had to work hard to be together. I highlighted so many quotes between these two, especially Gabriel's!

Fantastic read! Cannot wait for book two.

I LOVED the way Mimi Matthews approached topics like suffrage and gentrification. Truly her strong suit is in the depth of historical research she puts into her books. Unfortunately, this was kind of silly? I loved the idea of this way more than the execution. If I’m going to read about spy shenanigans (honestly not my fav tbh), I really want us to lean into the shenanigans and absurdity. But Rules for Ruin was trying to be very serious in a plot that was absurd and I ultimately couldn’t finish it.

Rules for Ruin
By: Mimi Matthews

Thank you to @berkleyromance for free book and @prhaudio for the #gifted audiobook. #berkleypartner #berkley All opinions are my own.

“She knew who she was now. She knew what it was she truly wanted. Perhaps what she’d always wanted. And it wasn’t fine dresses or wealth and position. It was this. It was him. It was love.”

Miss Euphemia Flite wants nothing more than to finally earn her freedom. To accomplish this she must infiltrate the inner circle of a powerful viscount and bring him down. But Gabriel Royce has plans of his own for the viscount and in his quest to use him as a means to keep the government from interfering in his business, he is none too pleased that he and Euphemia keep crossing paths.

This story is so much fun! It is the perfect game of cat and mouse, filled with an edgy cleverness, secret rendezvous and amazing banter. It is the first in the Crinoline Academy series and I can’t wait for book 2!

Read if you like:

Victorian Era Romance
Rivals to Lovers
Female empowerment
Slow Burn
Closed Door

4.5/5 This was such an enjoyable and satisfying story. I loved the main plot line with Effie and Gabriel both having their own courses set but the attraction they felt for one another disrupts that. The push and pull that this created and the tension this caused was delightful. But it was the underlying plot that was heartwarming and left me satisfied.

Gabriel and Effie both come from nothing. One has dug themselves up from the bottom and is afraid of what life may look like or who they’ll be if they’re no longer at the top. While the other has never felt like they belonged anywhere and needed to know of where they’d come from in order to move forward. The journey each go on to find themselves was fulfilling and them being able to find a future together was rewarding.

I liked that Effie was strong and independent. She’s also confident and emotionally intelligent with a protective poodle. But it’s Gabriel that stole my heart. From his gold glasses that he wears for reading to being morally gray to never having his had turned by a woman before and having his world turned upside down when he meets Effie.

There was many times that I felt the story could’ve gone a different direction or focused more on an aspect but the fact that it didn’t is what sets this book apart. It made for original characters and storyline.

This was a great start to a new series that I can’t wait to see what’s next. The sneak peek for book two at the end has me excited.

Rules for Ruin is the first book in The Crinoline Academy series. It is a closed door romance with several kisses.

I received an advance reader copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

"Mine. The word reverberated through Gabriel's veins, even as he counseled himself not to hold her too tightly, not to be too precipitous. It was dangerous to reveal the innermost desires of one's heart."

Mimi Matthews is a genius! I absolutely loved Rules for Ruin, and had the biggest book hangover when I was finished. It's hard to find an English historical romance that doesn't have one or both of the main characters who are nobility. I enjoyed that Effie and Gabriel came from difficult backgrounds. It really added to their depth!

There was so much romantic tension and beautiful moments between the two characters. Gabriel was the perfect blend of Tommy Shelby (but less scary) and a handsome gentleman. Reading about Effie giving him a run for his money was so much fun!

Read if you enjoy:
Rivals to Lovers
A Bit of Mystery
Victorian Romance

*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.

I had such a fabulous time with this book! Gabriel and Effie are scrappy and determined to accomplish their goals. Their goals are conflicting so I was hooked watching them use their considerable skills against each other. If you're looking for a romance with some suspense this could be your perfect read. It is so fun to watch two very capable people using all their tricks on each other and coming to respect their rival in the process. Gabriel and Effie learned to be self-reliant very young because they didn't have loving families so it was an absolute joy to watch them find a partner who will fight tooth and nail for them. Listening to this audio in public was a bold choice because I kept making wild faces as I was gripped by the plot and cracking up at the banter. I adored how fiercely feminist this story is. In our current climate, I found it so hopeful to read about two people who saw how resistant the system was to change but were determined to strive for change anyway. If you love historicals about strong women and the men that fall hard for them grab this audio!

“There were indeed going to be fireworks this evening, she thought grimly. And not only the kind in the sky.”

Oh this was just plain fun! Such a fantastic start to Mimi Matthews newest series The Crinoline Academy. One of my favorite things about Mimi’s books are all the historical elements and this book is no exception… it’s full of Victorian history from fashion to women’s rights especially when it comes to women’s personal property & marriage. It’s full of mystery, uncovering & revealing truths & the romance is perfection with its rivals to lovers trope, witty banter and fantastic chemistry!

I love the Miss Havisham Great Expectation vibes… it’s London 1864 and Effie Flite has been called back to The Crinoline Academy, the orphanage where she was educated & raised. Her education wasn’t a normal girls education… they were taught varying subjects not normally taught to girls plus they learned how to defend themselves, pick locks & other useful tools. Effie has been tasked with bringing down the powerful Lord Compton who politically opposes the Married Women's Act. I love Effie who is smart, strong & fiercely independent but also has a softer side. And who wouldn’t fall in love with Franc her mini poodle 💗 and then we have Gabriel Royce who pulled himself out of the slums by not so honest means. He has done some questionable things but also is trying to help the poor who live in the slums & let’s not forget that he just adores Effie!

“But Gabriel cared nothing for social rules at the best of times. And now... Well. He cared only for her.”

Seriously it’s just plain fun & i don’t know how I’m going to wait for the next book in this series!

"Survival isn't the same as living."

"Your pedigrees don't define you. Nor do the actions of those who would abuse or victimize you. We forge our own identities here.“

"Knowledge is your greatest weapon," she'd told them. "And books are knowledge made manifest."

ARC Review: Rules for Ruin by Mimi Matthews
Pub Date: May 20th

Thank you to @berkleyromance for the #gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I love Mimi Matthews' closed door historicals! She may be closed door but she's still high on tension and chemistry which is just a perfect combo for me. This is the first in a new series following graduates of "The Crinoline Academy", a school for girls that teaches them to take down men and advance the rights of women. Our heroin, Effie, has left the academy but in order to really get her freedom, she's tasked with one last goal - to take down an aristocrat who is going to be instrumental in striking down the Women's Property Rights Bill. Throughout her time infiltrating his inner circle, she meets betting shop owner Gabriel. Gabriel has his own interests that involve the aristocrat Effie is trying to take down. They immediately become adversaries and try to outplay each other in this game of wits.

I thought the external plot and the relationship went really well together - they were well balanced and it definitely kept me reading! I loved the banter between Effie and Gabriel and really felt their chemistry. I loved how strong Effie was as a heroine. I'm excited to see where this series go and will absolutely keep reading. And again - the tension and chemistry is just so, so good!

The first in The Crinoline Academy, Rules for Ruin, is a historical romance with a bit of mystery. Matthews gives the reader a fiercely passionate heroine who wants what every women wants, their right to be equal and seen in marriage. The sexy, brooding love interest has a heart of gold even with his mysterious means to wealth.

Sparks fly when these two come together, as they try to outwit each other. A refreshing romance featuring my favorite trope, enemies to lovers.

Thank you Berkley Publishing Group | Berkley

Rules for Ruin (The Crinoline Academy #1) by Mimi Matthews, 400 pages. Berkley Publishing, 2025. $20.
Language: PG13 (32 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG13; Violence; PG
BUYING ADVISORY: ADULTS - OPTIONAL
APPEALS TO: SOME
After graduating from the academy for girls, Effie was sent away to Paris to be a companion to an elderly lady. Effie hopes that her summons to return five years later will grant her freedom, but her old headmistress and guardian has one more stipulation before Effie can have her independence: Effie must ruin the reputation of Lord Compton. In this, Effie gains an unwitting enemy in Gabriel who needs Compton’s reputation to protect his own interests.
Matthews’ main characters are not above doing illegal things to achieve their goals, begging readers to determine how they are any better than the antagonist when everyone seems to believe that the ends justify the means. Curiosity of how Matthews will make both of her characters triumph in their conflicting goals as well as waiting to see how the will-they-won’t-they romance plays out act as the main propellants of the story. Overall, the story was a fun, predictable read.
The majority of characters are English and implied White, though Effie is described as having skin “somewhere between dark ivory and olive.” The mature content rating is for alcohol use, mentions of drugs and prostitution, illegal activity, kissing, partial nudity, and innuendo. The violence rating is for death, blood and gore, assault, and mentions of murder.
Reviewer: Carolina Herdegen

Mimi knocked it out of the park with this one! I ate up every moment! The Miss Haversham allusions, the Bronte vibes, the fashion details, and ever second of Gabriel Royce's devotion.

And can we just talk about that first kiss? Which comes EARLY in the book! And it was SO GOOD. The kissing in this books is top notch. On fire. I'm a fan.

The themes of this book were meaningful too. Know yourself. Who determines what/who we are? Circumstances? history? those who raised us? Knowing when to stand alone and when to accept help. What's really important. Loved all of it. I also enjoyed the bits of mystery, the case/job that Effie needs to accomplish. Loved the strong women and how they advocated for knowledge and the women's property/marriage rights.

Effie was so great. I really appreciated her growth and acceptance of herself. And Gabriel who opened himself back up to living and not just surviving. I could not get enough of those two. Effie gets into scrapes and Gabriel knows how to help. Every moment was delicious!

This might be a new favorite Mimi book. I plan on listening to the audio ASAP to relive it all again!

Stars: infinity
Content: kissing

If a romance has Tension with a capital T between the leads, then I am putty in the hands of the author. This was my first Mimi Matthews book and I’m kicking myself for not getting to her sooner. Rules for Ruin truly was a page turner; I found myself reading at work (oops), sitting at the dinner table, and staying up way too late just to get to the next scene.

What makes this book so good is the excellent storytelling combined with the strong-willed nature of both Effie and Gabriel. I fell in love with them both immediately for their similarities of ruthlessness, passionate beliefs, and quick-wittedness. But I stayed for the unexplainable giddiness Effie feels while falling for Gabriel, the way he makes it a point to show up for her despite his conflicted feelings, and the constant simmering desire between them. I literally fist-pumped the air with their first kiss; it’s the feeling of a man totally undone by a woman that he acts on impulse. And Gabriel is a man that implicitly trusts Effie, even if he doesn’t know the reasons why.

Not to be overshadowed by the leads, there are so many fun things Matthews has woven into this story. There’s hidden identity, spying, a tightrope walker, balloon ride, feminist meetings, stolen property, coded messages, a fluffy sidekick, and a pretty amazing fight scene. I appreciated the progressive leanings and fight for justice at all costs—Effie is a strong heroine who has been taught how to make a life on her own. So it’s the icing on the cake that she should possibly find a partner to share her beliefs and love. I am thrilled to see who the next couple will be in this series. Now excuse me while I go read all of Matthews’ backlog. I received an early copy from the publisher and author, all opinions are my own.

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🪭
Tension: 🫦🫦🫦🫦
Likelihood of reading again: 💯