City of Ruin by Charissa Weaks

Here is a summary with spoilers of City of Ruin

The group, including Raina and Alexus, embarks on a journey to the Summerland Queen's citadel, also known as the City of Ruin, to confront the Prince of the East. They suspect he is attempting to resurrect Thamaos, a powerful and ancient being.

Raina and Alexus’ Dynamic:Raina and Alexus continue to grow stronger together, both as a team and individually. Alexus’ powerful magic is returning, while Raina is discovering new depths to her own abilities. She senses a mysterious darkness within herself, which she calls "the abyss," though she remains uncertain of its nature or potential. The bond rune Alexus created in The Witch Collector ties their lives together, allowing him to pull her back from the shadow world and strengthening their connection.

Alexus also shares a life bond with Colden, which intertwines their fates. When Raina merges her magic with Alexus, she gains insight into their interconnected life threads, including her own, Alexus’, and Colden’s. Despite Alexus’ protective instincts, Raina is determined and independent, often making her own decisions to safeguard those she loves.

Multiple Perspectives and New Characters:The narrative alternates between several characters’ perspectives, including Nephele, Colden, the Eastern Prince (also known as the Prince with No Name), and Fleurie. Nephele, Raina’s sister, is a powerhouse in her own right, wielding magic capable of creating and dismantling intricate magical constructs.

Fleurie, a compelling new character, is introduced as the daughter of Thamaos. She harbors deep hatred for her cruel father, and the thought of his resurrection torments her. The Eastern Prince exploits Fleurie’s ability to create temporary portals, intending to use her magic to access Thamaos’ burial site.

Hel and Rhonin also return, with Rhonin’s lack of magic proving to be an unexpected advantage. His immense physical strength and tactical mind make him an asset to the group. A slow-burn romance develops between Hel and Rhonin, adding emotional depth to the story.

Meanwhile, Raina discovers that survivors from her home, including Finn, are alive and plans to reunite with them.

Heartbreak and Time Travel:Raina’s journey takes a heartbreaking turn when she uses her magic and loses all memory of Alexus. She must relearn to trust and love him, leaving Alexus shattered. Forced to step back, he allows Raina the space to rediscover her feelings for him. Just as Raina begins to remember and fall for Alexus again, the story reaches its climax.

Raina unexpectedly travels back in time, where she encounters a younger, more ruthless version of Alexus—long before their bond and shared experiences. In this past timeline, Alexus is the original Witch Collector, hardened and brutal. Raina is now a time walker, navigating the dangerous and unfamiliar dynamics of the past.

Meanwhile, in the present timeline, Alexus is frantic, desperately trying to figure out how to bring Raina back. The stakes rise as the group hurtles toward an epic finale, where love, time, and magic are put to the ultimate test.