In 'The Ruiners', Ellena Savage introduces readers to Pip, a disillusioned waitress who inherits A$50,000 and relocates to a dilapidated property on the Greek island of Fokos with her husband, Sasha, and their friend Viv. What begins as an escape from their mundane lives quickly unravels into a narrative of environmental degradation as illegal waste dumping is uncovered on the island. The story unfolds through a triptych structure, delving into the complexities of each character’s life choices. Pip, a university dropout, grapples with her identity and the anarchist ideals she feels are unattainable. Sasha, nearing the completion of his PhD, struggles with his place in a challenging job market, while Viv faces a moral dilemma between solidarity with striking workers and his ambitions as a journalist. Savage’s writing is marked by clever observations and dense philosophical reflections, which sometimes hinder the narrative's pace. Despite its ambitious themes and rich metaphors, 'The Ruiners' demands a thoughtful reader willing to engage with its complexities. The novel ultimately serves as a poignant commentary on contemporary society, revealing the layers of disillusionment faced by its characters.