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Descendants of the Fates #1
Queens of Moirai
The Three Fates, a Mad Queen with a zombie horde, and a family of Ouroboros collide in this spicy mythology retelling of The Grim Reaper, and how she came to be.
Morena Atropos is the Third Fate, the controller of Death, the granddaughter of Atropos. Doomed with dark gifts of destruction, and imprisoned for all of her life in a stone tower, Morena’s only view is the Obsidian Sea. Those she loves are taken away from her or used against her - what choice does she have but to serve as assassin?
Hiding her strength, Morena hones her murderous abilities, serving as slave to an unstoppable villain - her mother, Malinda the Mad, Queen of the Blood Throne. There’s no hope of escape until the arrival of a mysterious stranger who claims to be her betrothed. He's there to finally rescue her, and Morena is all too willing to throw herself into his muscular arms. But all is not as it seems... and as his lies unravel, it plunges Morena into a love-triangle of forbidden love and arranged marriage, and a choice between her heart or her soul.
In the meantime, her mother and her zombie army are on the move, and the other Fates expect Death to save the day.
Set in an epic fantasy world in a timeline of hundreds of years, this dark romantasy features the Three Fates: Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos, and their last descendants. Ideal for fans of mythology retellings with spice, this most unlikely of heroines will surprise and defy your expectations.
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Note: This book contains adult material and various trigger warnings, including steamy sex scenes, death, dismemberment, imprisonment, gore, horror, an abusive parent, and suicide. It is a full length novel and suitable for 18+.
Morena Atropos is the Third Fate, the controller of Death, the granddaughter of Atropos. Doomed with dark gifts of destruction, and imprisoned for all of her life in a stone tower, Morena’s only view is the Obsidian Sea. Those she loves are taken away from her or used against her - what choice does she have but to serve as assassin?
Hiding her strength, Morena hones her murderous abilities, serving as slave to an unstoppable villain - her mother, Malinda the Mad, Queen of the Blood Throne. There’s no hope of escape until the arrival of a mysterious stranger who claims to be her betrothed. He's there to finally rescue her, and Morena is all too willing to throw herself into his muscular arms. But all is not as it seems... and as his lies unravel, it plunges Morena into a love-triangle of forbidden love and arranged marriage, and a choice between her heart or her soul.
In the meantime, her mother and her zombie army are on the move, and the other Fates expect Death to save the day.
Set in an epic fantasy world in a timeline of hundreds of years, this dark romantasy features the Three Fates: Clotho, Lachesis, and Atropos, and their last descendants. Ideal for fans of mythology retellings with spice, this most unlikely of heroines will surprise and defy your expectations.
----
Note: This book contains adult material and various trigger warnings, including steamy sex scenes, death, dismemberment, imprisonment, gore, horror, an abusive parent, and suicide. It is a full length novel and suitable for 18+.
306 pages, ebook
First published September 5, 2023
371 people are currently reading
38125 people want to read
About the author
Rhiannon Hargadon
10 books513 followersThere was a willow I loved by a creek; sometimes I slept there. I was never afraid, alone in the dark. There was nothing to fear from water and trees and fairytales.
The real monsters were always people.
...
Can we forgive injustice?
Do we accept the fate forced upon us?
Should we fight, no matter the cost?
How do we move on from great loss?
What would you trade to relive one moment?
I write folklore and mythology inspired dark fantasy. Emphasis on dark. I don't shy away from serious issues and emotions: suicide, depression, mental illness, abuse, death, infertility, and assault are all in my books. These are not for pleasure or shock value, but because I want to write about authentic pain and suffering, and how we heal ourselves through the bad things that have been done to us.
My books will probably make you cry. I hope it helps more than it harms.
Official Site: https://www.rhiannonhargadon.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhiannonhar...
Email: hello AT rhiannonhargadon.com
Tiktok: rhiannonhargadon
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rhian...
Thanks for reading.
The real monsters were always people.
...
Can we forgive injustice?
Do we accept the fate forced upon us?
Should we fight, no matter the cost?
How do we move on from great loss?
What would you trade to relive one moment?
I write folklore and mythology inspired dark fantasy. Emphasis on dark. I don't shy away from serious issues and emotions: suicide, depression, mental illness, abuse, death, infertility, and assault are all in my books. These are not for pleasure or shock value, but because I want to write about authentic pain and suffering, and how we heal ourselves through the bad things that have been done to us.
My books will probably make you cry. I hope it helps more than it harms.
Official Site: https://www.rhiannonhargadon.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhiannonhar...
Email: hello AT rhiannonhargadon.com
Tiktok: rhiannonhargadon
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rhian...
Thanks for reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 230 reviews
September 30, 2023
This book has a lot of potential and it feels like I read an unedited draft of what could have been a great story. I want to start off by saying the characters and concept of this book are interesting and unique. The beginning of the story starts off really strong and pulls you in. However, soon into the story the plot becomes very complex very quickly with some plot holes and other things that are not really explained and the story begins to fall apart.
This book has a central romantic plot in addition to the overarching plot. Unfortunately, the romantic plot in this book doesn’t really make sense and it’s not explained well. The FMC has this random lust for Jasper and this very quick jump to lusting after Elijah, to then hating Elijah, to then having some sort of blood bond with him and hating Jasper instead. None of these characters are developed enough for this kind of ping ponging to make much sense and in fact, it interrupts the flow of the overarching plot which is far more interesting.
Having been secluded her whole life and sexually inexperienced, the author wrote the FMC as if the character understood her sexual urges, which, if the character was as secluded and tortured as the author wrote her to be, her first sexual experiences would have been far more awkward and awakening then they were described. The FMC is very sexually expressive in the story but this just doesn’t make sense with her history.
The author uses a lot of “ex-machina”-like plot devices to push the story forward and resolve character obstacles, again leaving large plot holes and leaving the characters underdeveloped. In the first half of the book the FMC is “tortured” by slaughtering thousands of prisoners and has no true understanding of her power, yet later she believes herself to be death-incarnate and that no one should ever mess with her…. That doesn’t really align well with the tortured, secluded, and orphaned narrative we got in the first half of the book. Another example of this is when the FMC and Elijah just randomly start communicating telepathically? This ability is part of the “blood bond” but all we ever learn about that is that you’re not really supposed to do it. Additionally, the FMC doesn’t learn how to be a Fate and there is no character development where she learns exactly what her powers are and how to use them.
There are some grammatical mistakes, as well as writing mistakes that don’t make sense. For example, toward the beginning of the story the characters are in the woods outside watching someone make snow hills and forts to sleep in, then suddenly everyone is sitting at a table while this is happening? Some sentences don’t have spaces between the end of one sentence and the start of another. I am not quite sure who edited this novel, but if I were the author I would look for a new editor for her apparently next three books for this series.
This book was so all over the place, I can’t imagine what will happen if this story expands to three more novels. I’m not quite sure if I will read the next installment since I almost DNF this book multiple times along the way. I think as a draft, this is great and her editing team did not help her enough to take this story to the next level. The author has talent and I think with a better editing team she can take this story from amateur to very polished and comprehensive.
This book has a central romantic plot in addition to the overarching plot. Unfortunately, the romantic plot in this book doesn’t really make sense and it’s not explained well. The FMC has this random lust for Jasper and this very quick jump to lusting after Elijah, to then hating Elijah, to then having some sort of blood bond with him and hating Jasper instead. None of these characters are developed enough for this kind of ping ponging to make much sense and in fact, it interrupts the flow of the overarching plot which is far more interesting.
Having been secluded her whole life and sexually inexperienced, the author wrote the FMC as if the character understood her sexual urges, which, if the character was as secluded and tortured as the author wrote her to be, her first sexual experiences would have been far more awkward and awakening then they were described. The FMC is very sexually expressive in the story but this just doesn’t make sense with her history.
The author uses a lot of “ex-machina”-like plot devices to push the story forward and resolve character obstacles, again leaving large plot holes and leaving the characters underdeveloped. In the first half of the book the FMC is “tortured” by slaughtering thousands of prisoners and has no true understanding of her power, yet later she believes herself to be death-incarnate and that no one should ever mess with her…. That doesn’t really align well with the tortured, secluded, and orphaned narrative we got in the first half of the book. Another example of this is when the FMC and Elijah just randomly start communicating telepathically? This ability is part of the “blood bond” but all we ever learn about that is that you’re not really supposed to do it. Additionally, the FMC doesn’t learn how to be a Fate and there is no character development where she learns exactly what her powers are and how to use them.
There are some grammatical mistakes, as well as writing mistakes that don’t make sense. For example, toward the beginning of the story the characters are in the woods outside watching someone make snow hills and forts to sleep in, then suddenly everyone is sitting at a table while this is happening? Some sentences don’t have spaces between the end of one sentence and the start of another. I am not quite sure who edited this novel, but if I were the author I would look for a new editor for her apparently next three books for this series.
This book was so all over the place, I can’t imagine what will happen if this story expands to three more novels. I’m not quite sure if I will read the next installment since I almost DNF this book multiple times along the way. I think as a draft, this is great and her editing team did not help her enough to take this story to the next level. The author has talent and I think with a better editing team she can take this story from amateur to very polished and comprehensive.
October 8, 2023
Review 4.5 stars!
Dark Romantasy fans please hear me out and grab a copy of Queens of Moirai 🙌🏻 I’m seriously addicted. It’s so GRIM and perfect for those who love a dark retelling!
The story has dark Rapunzel vibes mixed with the evil queen from Snow White. Morena is the third Fate, Death herself, known as the Reaper. What I really loved about Morena is that even though she is Death, she doesn’t like to kill. Morena and her siblings are held captive by their own mother, the evil Queen Malinda. They are held in a dark and cold tower and dream of one day escaping and obtaining their freedom. Everything changes once terrible events lead to Morena having to become her mothers henchman in other to keep her sister safe. I was completely fascinated by the Evil Queen, her motivations and past were a mystery that kept me intrigued throughout every page.
The story took a completely unexpected turn as Morena is rescued by the Prince. By this point I could not put the book down! I love the arranged marriage trope and the way the author pulled it off was so wickedly deceiving that I fell for it flat like a pancake 🫠 Both Princes are a mystery and I flew through the pages trying to figure out their true intentions 👀
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
Dark Romantasy fans please hear me out and grab a copy of Queens of Moirai 🙌🏻 I’m seriously addicted. It’s so GRIM and perfect for those who love a dark retelling!
The story has dark Rapunzel vibes mixed with the evil queen from Snow White. Morena is the third Fate, Death herself, known as the Reaper. What I really loved about Morena is that even though she is Death, she doesn’t like to kill. Morena and her siblings are held captive by their own mother, the evil Queen Malinda. They are held in a dark and cold tower and dream of one day escaping and obtaining their freedom. Everything changes once terrible events lead to Morena having to become her mothers henchman in other to keep her sister safe. I was completely fascinated by the Evil Queen, her motivations and past were a mystery that kept me intrigued throughout every page.
The story took a completely unexpected turn as Morena is rescued by the Prince. By this point I could not put the book down! I love the arranged marriage trope and the way the author pulled it off was so wickedly deceiving that I fell for it flat like a pancake 🫠 Both Princes are a mystery and I flew through the pages trying to figure out their true intentions 👀
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
December 27, 2024
I love when a random KU download is going to end up in my best books of the year!
This has a LOT going on in it. There are vampires, zombies, immortals, but the easiest way to describe this is if Scythe was a romantasy, with a really confusing love triangle (that I'm 100% here for) also a Wicked Queen and her zombie army. Just go in for the ride and you'll have a good time!
This has a LOT going on in it. There are vampires, zombies, immortals, but the easiest way to describe this is if Scythe was a romantasy, with a really confusing love triangle (that I'm 100% here for) also a Wicked Queen and her zombie army. Just go in for the ride and you'll have a good time!
September 2, 2023
Death has been trapped in a tower all her life. The daughter of a tyrannical queen, Morena is the chosen descendant of the Fates, marked since birth to become Death Herself. Turned into a weapon, her life takes a turn when she meets the other two Fates, uniting to stop her wicked mother once and for all. With magic, destiny, romance, sisterhood, and incredible worldbuilding, Queens of Moirai is everything you could want in a debut.
I absolutely adored the main character of this novel. Morena walked the line between vulnerability and strength perfectly, and watching her grow up was delightful. I loved how she had to work for her powers to come to life and that she didn't trust love when it was laid at her feet. Her dynamic with her siblings was wonderful and realistic, and I can't wait to see their relationships grow.
What grounds the story most is the sisterhood between the three Fates. Vitess and Serene were characters who could stand on their own, but who gained even greater depth when around Morena. While she was certainly the central character, I appreciated that the other Fates never felt like mere plot devices to drive the story forward.
Speaking of the plot, it had just the right amount of action and character development. There was never a dull moment, and I found myself constantly flipping to the next chapter. My only issue is that the ending felt a bit rushed and I didn't love the twist, but that can certainly be smoothed over in book two. The worldbuilding was expertly crafted; though the audience read plenty of details,, it never felt like info-dumping. There are some questions I would've liked answered in greater depth, but since this is only book one, I can live without answers for now. Overall, Queens of Moirai was an excellent introduction to a fantastic world, and I can't wait to see what the rest of the series has in store.
I recieved an e-ARC from the author via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
I absolutely adored the main character of this novel. Morena walked the line between vulnerability and strength perfectly, and watching her grow up was delightful. I loved how she had to work for her powers to come to life and that she didn't trust love when it was laid at her feet. Her dynamic with her siblings was wonderful and realistic, and I can't wait to see their relationships grow.
What grounds the story most is the sisterhood between the three Fates. Vitess and Serene were characters who could stand on their own, but who gained even greater depth when around Morena. While she was certainly the central character, I appreciated that the other Fates never felt like mere plot devices to drive the story forward.
Speaking of the plot, it had just the right amount of action and character development. There was never a dull moment, and I found myself constantly flipping to the next chapter. My only issue is that the ending felt a bit rushed and I didn't love the twist, but that can certainly be smoothed over in book two. The worldbuilding was expertly crafted; though the audience read plenty of details,, it never felt like info-dumping. There are some questions I would've liked answered in greater depth, but since this is only book one, I can live without answers for now. Overall, Queens of Moirai was an excellent introduction to a fantastic world, and I can't wait to see what the rest of the series has in store.
I recieved an e-ARC from the author via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions remain my own.
August 11, 2025
"I was mage- marked; I was chosen.... I alone carried the cursed honor of controlling death. Each of the Three Fates owned the magical abilities to control Time, Life, and Death, and I was Death." (Ch 2)
Dark romantasy | Retelling of the Grim Reaper | Mythology inspired | Zombies (aka Cullen)
Can I just write, "Run, Go READ IT!!!"? And be done with the review? 😂 Because OMFG it had me enthralled, despite outside influences trying to capture my attention and strip me of my reading time.
At first, I thought it would be horror-filled, while it does have horrific elements, they aren't described to the point they incite nightmares... not for me, anyway. On the contrary, the story evoked more of a pulling of the heartstrings and solicited a sadness for this woman, this queen, Morena, who was born into this life of death without choice. Yet she didn't want any of it.
"A magical contract, forged in blood, between three Fates, before I was born." (Ch 8)
It really gives a different perspective of the Grim Reaper, which made me want to be more compassionate toward her. I almost, well, I did, kind of feel paranoid for her when things took a turn. Like what unknown darkness awaited her? What were they hiding from her? What kind of betrayal would unfold to break her heart and truly create the monster that they all thought she was and feared?
Of course, when the twist came, I was floored. Morena reacted better than I would have expected, though.
Torn between fate and uncertain desires. An arranged marriage and forbidden love.
“You were my one true love. The forgotten princess; locked away by an evil queen. I was the prince who was going to rescue you. Or so I hoped.” (Ch 24)
Morena had to navigate through a world and feelings she was not accustomed to and to become what she was always destined to be.
ebook courtesy of Book Sirens
Dark romantasy | Retelling of the Grim Reaper | Mythology inspired | Zombies (aka Cullen)
Can I just write, "Run, Go READ IT!!!"? And be done with the review? 😂 Because OMFG it had me enthralled, despite outside influences trying to capture my attention and strip me of my reading time.
At first, I thought it would be horror-filled, while it does have horrific elements, they aren't described to the point they incite nightmares... not for me, anyway. On the contrary, the story evoked more of a pulling of the heartstrings and solicited a sadness for this woman, this queen, Morena, who was born into this life of death without choice. Yet she didn't want any of it.
"A magical contract, forged in blood, between three Fates, before I was born." (Ch 8)
It really gives a different perspective of the Grim Reaper, which made me want to be more compassionate toward her. I almost, well, I did, kind of feel paranoid for her when things took a turn. Like what unknown darkness awaited her? What were they hiding from her? What kind of betrayal would unfold to break her heart and truly create the monster that they all thought she was and feared?
Of course, when the twist came, I was floored. Morena reacted better than I would have expected, though.
Torn between fate and uncertain desires. An arranged marriage and forbidden love.
“You were my one true love. The forgotten princess; locked away by an evil queen. I was the prince who was going to rescue you. Or so I hoped.” (Ch 24)
Morena had to navigate through a world and feelings she was not accustomed to and to become what she was always destined to be.
ebook courtesy of Book Sirens
November 14, 2023
Do you like Rapunzel? What about stories of the Greek fates and gods? Or Fae? How about love triangles? Or disjointed plotlines? If you answered "yes" to all of these questions, then this book is for you!
I wanted to like this one--I SO wanted to like this one. On paper, it was a fascinating premise-- our female main character is a descendent of Atropos, and her magic has manifested as the bringer of death. She's essentially the grim reaper. And there are Fae. The main plot? Bring down her mother, who is amassing an army of undead to take over the world and prevent the decedents of the fates from ruling Moirai in peace.
But in practice, it just...didn't work? The love story was absolutely ridiculous, the love triangle was giving Jacob/Edward/Bella vibes (and written just as well), the plots didn't seem to really connect at all, and our FMC just...never seemed to learn or grow? I forgive her naivety and desperation for connection and love--she was raised by an absolute monster and trapped in a tower for 20 years--but she's lied to often, betrayed often, and just never seems to learn from it. She calls out her own naivety and doesn't grow from it, which was super annoying.
There were also some issues with timeline, and a few time jumps that just didn't need to exist. I think the author tried to do too much and it led to messy plot lines and poorly written romance. I didn't find myself invested in any of the characters, the romance, or even Moirai by the end of the book.
BUT there is hope for the series--there were parts that were well written and interesting, sections that made me curious and wanting to know what happens next. The plot immediately was derailed after those moments, but they are still there.
The story was interesting enough that I'll probably give the next book a chance, especially because there is a lot of potential in both the writing style and the plot. But overall, this was definitely a letdown.
I wanted to like this one--I SO wanted to like this one. On paper, it was a fascinating premise-- our female main character is a descendent of Atropos, and her magic has manifested as the bringer of death. She's essentially the grim reaper. And there are Fae. The main plot? Bring down her mother, who is amassing an army of undead to take over the world and prevent the decedents of the fates from ruling Moirai in peace.
But in practice, it just...didn't work? The love story was absolutely ridiculous, the love triangle was giving Jacob/Edward/Bella vibes (and written just as well), the plots didn't seem to really connect at all, and our FMC just...never seemed to learn or grow? I forgive her naivety and desperation for connection and love--she was raised by an absolute monster and trapped in a tower for 20 years--but she's lied to often, betrayed often, and just never seems to learn from it. She calls out her own naivety and doesn't grow from it, which was super annoying.
There were also some issues with timeline, and a few time jumps that just didn't need to exist. I think the author tried to do too much and it led to messy plot lines and poorly written romance. I didn't find myself invested in any of the characters, the romance, or even Moirai by the end of the book.
BUT there is hope for the series--there were parts that were well written and interesting, sections that made me curious and wanting to know what happens next. The plot immediately was derailed after those moments, but they are still there.
The story was interesting enough that I'll probably give the next book a chance, especially because there is a lot of potential in both the writing style and the plot. But overall, this was definitely a letdown.
January 21, 2024
"𝖨 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝖽𝖾𝗌𝗍𝗋𝗈𝗒 𝖺𝗇𝗒𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝗐𝗁𝗈 𝗁𝗎𝗋𝗍𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎, 𝗄𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆 𝗌𝗈 𝗏𝗂𝗈𝗅𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗅𝗒 𝖨 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗆𝖺𝗄𝖾 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝗌𝖼𝗒𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗅𝗈𝗈𝗄 𝗅𝗂𝗄𝖾 𝖺 𝗌𝖺𝗂𝗇𝗍 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝖺 𝗉𝗋𝖺𝗒𝖾𝗋 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄.”
An unputdownable dark fantasy!
Queens of Moirai is an origin story of the Grim Reaper, a spicy mythology retelling. Whatever you are expecting, move it aside as this book will exceed all of your expectations! I already feel like rereading this book as it is so good. I highlighted several quotes and want to get a physical copy for my shelf.
Since it is a dark fantasy, there are some heavier themes so please check the trigger warnings. I do not want to give away anything more than the synopsis reveals as it's such a thrill to meet Morena and be introduced to this dark world and the Three Fates.
It delivers in every way and the ending literally had me gasping. This is officially on my top 5 favourite reads list of 2023. (I read this in 2023 but am posting my review a bit late). Be sure to read this on KU and if you don't have KU, it's time to spoil yourself with a new book.
- enemies to lovers
- arranged marriage
- magic
- betrayal
- gothic vibes
Favourite quotes:
"𝖧𝗂𝗌 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝖺 𝗌𝗈𝗎𝗅 𝖨 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗀𝗈𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗈 𝖼𝗅𝖺𝗂𝗆 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋. 𝖨 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗁𝗂𝗆, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗆𝖾."
“𝖨 𝖽𝗈𝗇’𝗍 𝗇𝖾𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗈 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗆𝗂𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗇 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗄𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝖺 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁𝗍.”
"𝖧𝖾𝗋𝗈𝖾𝗌 𝖽𝗈𝗇’𝗍 𝗐𝗂𝗇. 𝖧𝖾𝗋𝗈𝖾𝗌 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗄𝗂𝗇𝖽, 𝗍𝗈𝗈 𝗀𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗅𝖾, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 ����𝗈𝖿𝗍 𝗍𝗈 𝗌𝖺𝖼𝗋𝗂𝖿𝗂𝖼𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗒 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾. 𝖵𝗂𝗅𝗅𝖺𝗂𝗇𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗌𝖺𝖼𝗋𝗂𝖿𝗂𝖼𝖾 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗈 𝗐𝗂𝗇."
“𝖬𝖺𝗋𝗋𝗒 𝗆𝖾, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨 𝗐𝗂𝗅��� 𝗐𝖺𝗅𝗄 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗂𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖽𝖺𝗋𝗄.”
"𝖨𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝗌𝗌𝗎𝗋𝖾𝖽 𝗆𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝖨 𝖼𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝗋𝗈𝗐 𝗆𝗒 𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗋𝖾 𝗌𝖾𝗅𝖿 𝖺𝗍, 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗃𝖺𝗀𝗀𝖾𝖽, 𝖺𝗇𝗀𝗋𝗒 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍𝗌, 𝗋𝖾𝖽 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗋𝖺𝗐, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝖾 𝗐𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽𝗇’𝗍 𝖿𝗅𝗂𝗇𝖼𝗁."
“𝖠𝗅𝗅 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗄 𝖺𝖻𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝗂𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎. 𝖸𝗈𝗎’𝗋𝖾 𝗅𝗂𝗄𝖾 𝖺 𝗐𝖾𝗅𝗅, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨’𝗏𝖾 𝖿𝖺𝗅𝗅𝖾𝗇 𝗂𝗇, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇’𝗍 𝖿𝗂𝗇𝖽 𝖺 𝗐𝖺𝗒 𝗈𝗎𝗍.”
"𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗒 𝗌𝖺𝗒 𝗂𝗍’𝗌 𝗇𝗈𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝖺𝗂𝗋𝗒𝗍𝖺𝗅𝖾𝗌 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗅𝗂𝖾 𝗍𝗈 𝗎𝗌 𝖻𝗎𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗐𝖾 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾."
"𝖸𝗈𝗎 𝗐𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝖻𝗈𝗋𝗇 𝖺 𝗐𝖾𝖺𝗉𝗈𝗇. 𝖸𝗈𝗎 𝗅𝖾𝗍 𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗎𝗌𝖾 𝗒𝗈𝗎, 𝗇𝗈𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗓𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗒 𝗁𝖺𝖽 𝗇𝗈𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖻𝗎𝗍 𝖾𝗆𝗉𝗍𝗒 𝗁𝖺𝗇𝖽𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝗒𝗈𝗎.”
An unputdownable dark fantasy!
Queens of Moirai is an origin story of the Grim Reaper, a spicy mythology retelling. Whatever you are expecting, move it aside as this book will exceed all of your expectations! I already feel like rereading this book as it is so good. I highlighted several quotes and want to get a physical copy for my shelf.
Since it is a dark fantasy, there are some heavier themes so please check the trigger warnings. I do not want to give away anything more than the synopsis reveals as it's such a thrill to meet Morena and be introduced to this dark world and the Three Fates.
It delivers in every way and the ending literally had me gasping. This is officially on my top 5 favourite reads list of 2023. (I read this in 2023 but am posting my review a bit late). Be sure to read this on KU and if you don't have KU, it's time to spoil yourself with a new book.
- enemies to lovers
- arranged marriage
- magic
- betrayal
- gothic vibes
Favourite quotes:
"𝖧𝗂𝗌 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝖺 𝗌𝗈𝗎𝗅 𝖨 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗀𝗈𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗈 𝖼𝗅𝖺𝗂𝗆 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋. 𝖨 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗁𝗂𝗆, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝗈𝗋 𝗆𝖾."
“𝖨 𝖽𝗈𝗇’𝗍 𝗇𝖾𝖾𝖽 𝗍𝗈 𝗂𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗆𝗂𝖽𝖺𝗍𝖾 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗐𝗁𝖾𝗇 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗄𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝖺 𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗀𝗁𝗍.”
"𝖧𝖾𝗋𝗈𝖾𝗌 𝖽𝗈𝗇’𝗍 𝗐𝗂𝗇. 𝖧𝖾𝗋𝗈𝖾𝗌 𝖺𝗋𝖾 𝗄𝗂𝗇𝖽, 𝗍𝗈𝗈 𝗀𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗅𝖾, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 ����𝗈𝖿𝗍 𝗍𝗈 𝗌𝖺𝖼𝗋𝗂𝖿𝗂𝖼𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗒 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾. 𝖵𝗂𝗅𝗅𝖺𝗂𝗇𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗅𝗅 𝗌𝖺𝖼𝗋𝗂𝖿𝗂𝖼𝖾 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗋𝗒𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗈 𝗐𝗂𝗇."
“𝖬𝖺𝗋𝗋𝗒 𝗆𝖾, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨 𝗐𝗂𝗅��� 𝗐𝖺𝗅𝗄 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗒𝗈𝗎 𝗂𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖽𝖺𝗋𝗄.”
"𝖨𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝗌𝗌𝗎𝗋𝖾𝖽 𝗆𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗌 𝗐𝖺𝗌 𝗌𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗈𝗇𝖾 𝖨 𝖼𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽 𝗍𝗁𝗋𝗈𝗐 𝗆𝗒 𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗂𝗋𝖾 𝗌𝖾𝗅𝖿 𝖺𝗍, 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗃𝖺𝗀𝗀𝖾𝖽, 𝖺𝗇𝗀𝗋𝗒 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝗍𝗌, 𝗋𝖾𝖽 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗋𝖺𝗐, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝗁𝖾 𝗐𝗈𝗎𝗅𝖽𝗇’𝗍 𝖿𝗅𝗂𝗇𝖼𝗁."
“𝖠𝗅𝗅 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇 𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗄 𝖺𝖻𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝗂𝗌 𝗒𝗈𝗎. 𝖸𝗈𝗎’𝗋𝖾 𝗅𝗂𝗄𝖾 𝖺 𝗐𝖾𝗅𝗅, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨’𝗏𝖾 𝖿𝖺𝗅𝗅𝖾𝗇 𝗂𝗇, 𝖺𝗇𝖽 𝖨 𝖼𝖺𝗇’𝗍 𝖿𝗂𝗇𝖽 𝖺 𝗐𝖺𝗒 𝗈𝗎𝗍.”
"𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗒 𝗌𝖺𝗒 𝗂𝗍’𝗌 𝗇𝗈𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖿𝖺𝗂𝗋𝗒𝗍𝖺𝗅𝖾𝗌 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗅𝗂𝖾 𝗍𝗈 𝗎𝗌 𝖻𝗎𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗐𝖾 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾."
"𝖸𝗈𝗎 𝗐𝖾𝗋𝖾 𝖻𝗈𝗋𝗇 𝖺 𝗐𝖾𝖺𝗉𝗈𝗇. 𝖸𝗈𝗎 𝗅𝖾𝗍 𝗈𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗋 𝗉𝖾𝗈𝗉𝗅𝖾 𝗎𝗌𝖾 𝗒𝗈𝗎, 𝗇𝗈𝗍 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝗅𝗂𝗓𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗍 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗒 𝗁𝖺𝖽 𝗇𝗈𝗍𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝖻𝗎𝗍 𝖾𝗆𝗉𝗍𝗒 𝗁𝖺𝗇𝖽𝗌 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁𝗈𝗎𝗍 𝗒𝗈𝗎.”
September 24, 2023
I HAVE WHIPLASH FROM THIS ENDING
Screaming, tthrowing up GOD The anxiety okay calming down.
Starting the prologue itself was super intriguing, fascinating even!
The beginning of the story had a bit of an old classic fairytale vibe, think Brother's Grim and i loved that so much.
I mean SHE'S THE GRIM REAPER !! An actual romanticized retelling of death's story and it is done to perfection. Itit kept ggetting better and better, i loved the building of moerna the MC and her progression in the story and how the world unfolded around her. At first i wished we had more from other characters but i just needed to bebe patient becasue baby we got ALOT more.
Same with the romance, at first i thought it wasn't built up enough but just stick to it because it all makes sense by the end.
Speaking of the end….WHAT WAS THAT OH MY GOD THE ANXIETY MY HEART CANNOT. I mean MA'AM there were a couple of chapters left and ALL the shit was going down and i got scared and wanted to go home
All the "negatives" i thought i had completely decipated by the end. I'm so glad this is going to be a series because lord knows i need it.
I loved the friendship! I loved that we literally do not know who to trust everyone is a two faced bastard, it kept me on edge all the time.
Even without getting to the good parts which start a little bit after the middle this was gonna be a 4☆ but after i finished it's a total 5 stars for me.
I loved the different influence of myths and historical characters and the connection that was created here and the way it was done.
This was fucking awesome! An anxiety filled ride, yes. But a 5☆worth of anxiety
Also here is my review on video lol
https://youtu.be/LafGjv-5Ic4?si=KVhph...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Screaming, tthrowing up GOD The anxiety okay calming down.
Starting the prologue itself was super intriguing, fascinating even!
The beginning of the story had a bit of an old classic fairytale vibe, think Brother's Grim and i loved that so much.
I mean SHE'S THE GRIM REAPER !! An actual romanticized retelling of death's story and it is done to perfection. Itit kept ggetting better and better, i loved the building of moerna the MC and her progression in the story and how the world unfolded around her. At first i wished we had more from other characters but i just needed to bebe patient becasue baby we got ALOT more.
Same with the romance, at first i thought it wasn't built up enough but just stick to it because it all makes sense by the end.
Speaking of the end….WHAT WAS THAT OH MY GOD THE ANXIETY MY HEART CANNOT. I mean MA'AM there were a couple of chapters left and ALL the shit was going down and i got scared and wanted to go home
All the "negatives" i thought i had completely decipated by the end. I'm so glad this is going to be a series because lord knows i need it.
I loved the friendship! I loved that we literally do not know who to trust everyone is a two faced bastard, it kept me on edge all the time.
Even without getting to the good parts which start a little bit after the middle this was gonna be a 4☆ but after i finished it's a total 5 stars for me.
I loved the different influence of myths and historical characters and the connection that was created here and the way it was done.
This was fucking awesome! An anxiety filled ride, yes. But a 5☆worth of anxiety
Also here is my review on video lol
https://youtu.be/LafGjv-5Ic4?si=KVhph...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 18, 2024
3.5 stars, really really interesting premise but it felt like it could use another round of editing
October 20, 2024
I finished this book, thinking it would finally end, but no. It lead me to believe that it was a standalone, but then I come to find it is supposed to be a four book series. I enjoyed it at times, but the timestamps were all convoluted and confusing, the relationships would be fine and then something would cause a huge fight between the characters, and then there were just some added storylines that didn’t need to be there.I wouldn’t recommend this book to anyone, but at least it kept me entertained for a couple of days.
January 17, 2024
“Let me tell you about destiny, Morena. Your Death, the third Fate. It is your destiny to kill me, just as it is your destiny to kill all the people you ever love” (81).
I was surprised with how much I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. The story follows Morena, a descendant of Death, as she navigates the consequences of destruction and desire. Enslaved by her own mother in a Rapunzel-like scenario, Morena must learn to accept the dark nature of her powers in order to rid the kingdom of a murderous blood queen and a horde of the undead. Along the way she faces love, loss, and the conflict of morality.
Hargadon has a talent for dialogue, and it is here that the story truly shines and progresses. Despite a few grammatical errors, I was captivated by the relationships that were built through conversations (especially with Morena and her TWO love interests). Contrastingly, I felt that the narrative pace outside of dialogue was abnormal - often having long periods of time pass without addressing it. There’s one paragraph, for instance, that mentions YEARS having passed from the previous paragraph.
The originality of the concept held my interest the entire time, making me eager to continue to series. Built around Greek mythology and the story of Moirai, this grimdark tale includes elemental magic, fae folklore, shapeshifters, and a zombie army. Shadows creep around every corner, creating an eerie yet anticipatory atmosphere that is perfect for anyone who loves fantasy with a touch of moral ambiguity.
I was surprised with how much I enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. The story follows Morena, a descendant of Death, as she navigates the consequences of destruction and desire. Enslaved by her own mother in a Rapunzel-like scenario, Morena must learn to accept the dark nature of her powers in order to rid the kingdom of a murderous blood queen and a horde of the undead. Along the way she faces love, loss, and the conflict of morality.
Hargadon has a talent for dialogue, and it is here that the story truly shines and progresses. Despite a few grammatical errors, I was captivated by the relationships that were built through conversations (especially with Morena and her TWO love interests). Contrastingly, I felt that the narrative pace outside of dialogue was abnormal - often having long periods of time pass without addressing it. There’s one paragraph, for instance, that mentions YEARS having passed from the previous paragraph.
The originality of the concept held my interest the entire time, making me eager to continue to series. Built around Greek mythology and the story of Moirai, this grimdark tale includes elemental magic, fae folklore, shapeshifters, and a zombie army. Shadows creep around every corner, creating an eerie yet anticipatory atmosphere that is perfect for anyone who loves fantasy with a touch of moral ambiguity.
July 24, 2024
☠️⚔️Queens Of Moirai⚔️☠️
“𝔖𝔲𝔠𝔥 𝔦𝔰 𝔇𝔢𝔞𝔱𝔥. 𝔇𝔢𝔰𝔦𝔯𝔢𝔡, 𝔡𝔯𝔢𝔞𝔡𝔢𝔡, 𝔦𝔤𝔫𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔡 𝔲𝔫𝔱𝔦𝔩 𝔦𝔱 𝔦𝔰 𝔱𝔬𝔬 𝔩𝔞𝔱𝔢. 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔣𝔢𝔞𝔯 𝔱𝔥𝔞𝔱 𝔪𝔲𝔰𝔱 𝔟𝔢 𝔣𝔞𝔠𝔢𝔡 𝔟𝔶 𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔯𝔶 𝔬𝔫𝔢 𝔬𝔣 𝔲𝔰.”
I won't go over the blurb as you can read in the description. 🧐🤔
I rarely read fantasy, but something told me to read this book maybe because the Grim Reaper is a female & such a strong character! The author did so well with the story telling you easily drawn into this fantasy world with all the different characters & the adventures it brings. Thank you, Rhiannon Hargadon. I was utterly pulled into your world & will continue your books 📚💀
I highly recommend 👍
Narrators Jessie Elwyn, it's a first hearing & listening to your voices.I absolutely loved thankyou🎧
Story 📚📚📚📚📚
Characters ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶
Narration 👄 👄 👄 👄👄
#QueensOfMoirai #DescendantsOfTheFatesSeries #Rhiannon Hargadon #Narrator #Jessie Elwyn #FemaleGrimReaper #Fantasy #Adventure #Angst #Action #Adult #SwoonWorthy #GreatStart #Audiobooks
“𝔖𝔲𝔠𝔥 𝔦𝔰 𝔇𝔢𝔞𝔱𝔥. 𝔇𝔢𝔰𝔦𝔯𝔢𝔡, 𝔡𝔯𝔢𝔞𝔡𝔢𝔡, 𝔦𝔤𝔫𝔬𝔯𝔢𝔡 𝔲𝔫𝔱𝔦𝔩 𝔦𝔱 𝔦𝔰 𝔱𝔬𝔬 𝔩𝔞𝔱𝔢. 𝔗𝔥𝔢 𝔣𝔢𝔞𝔯 𝔱𝔥𝔞𝔱 𝔪𝔲𝔰𝔱 𝔟𝔢 𝔣𝔞𝔠𝔢𝔡 𝔟𝔶 𝔢𝔳𝔢𝔯𝔶 𝔬𝔫𝔢 𝔬𝔣 𝔲𝔰.”
I won't go over the blurb as you can read in the description. 🧐🤔
I rarely read fantasy, but something told me to read this book maybe because the Grim Reaper is a female & such a strong character! The author did so well with the story telling you easily drawn into this fantasy world with all the different characters & the adventures it brings. Thank you, Rhiannon Hargadon. I was utterly pulled into your world & will continue your books 📚💀
I highly recommend 👍
Narrators Jessie Elwyn, it's a first hearing & listening to your voices.I absolutely loved thankyou🎧
Story 📚📚📚📚📚
Characters ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶
Narration 👄 👄 👄 👄👄
#QueensOfMoirai #DescendantsOfTheFatesSeries #Rhiannon Hargadon #Narrator #Jessie Elwyn #FemaleGrimReaper #Fantasy #Adventure #Angst #Action #Adult #SwoonWorthy #GreatStart #Audiobooks
September 19, 2023
I 1000% love a good retelling. When I realized Queens of Moirai was a Grim Reaper origin story I was IMMEDIATELY intrigued. And the Grim Reaper is our fierce female main character? I am HERE for it. I finished this book late last night and it left my jaw on the floor 😱 it was twisty, surprising, shocking, and just so insanely unique. I am OBSESSED with this book, y’all. It was an easy 5 star read and I found myself thinking about it all day. I had no clue what was going to happen or how it was going to end and I feel like that rarely happens to me with books these days. Highly highly recommend! Pleaseee read it so we can discuss because omg…that ending 😱
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 5, 2025
Rate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay, so this book has been in my TBR for the longest, and I don't know why it took me so long to read it. In the aspect of plot, this story didn't disappoint, and I read it within two days. I really liked Serene out of everybody, and I think that's because of her unapologetic attitude. I did want to see more of Vitess, because she seems like such a vital character, but it didn't come off that way.... Maybe because it also felt like despite her powers, she was hiding something. Morena did take a second to grow on me because while I understood her growing pains throughout, I really just wanted her to fall head over heels for Elijah. I'm sure she'll continue to grow, and we'll have to see her make the decision between Elijah and Jasper despite her and Elijah being fated.
This book was so good and definitely
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Okay, so this book has been in my TBR for the longest, and I don't know why it took me so long to read it. In the aspect of plot, this story didn't disappoint, and I read it within two days. I really liked Serene out of everybody, and I think that's because of her unapologetic attitude. I did want to see more of Vitess, because she seems like such a vital character, but it didn't come off that way.... Maybe because it also felt like despite her powers, she was hiding something. Morena did take a second to grow on me because while I understood her growing pains throughout, I really just wanted her to fall head over heels for Elijah. I'm sure she'll continue to grow, and we'll have to see her make the decision between Elijah and Jasper despite her and Elijah being fated.
This book was so good and definitely
September 17, 2024
pretty good retelling.
i liked the fmc even thought her falling for either of the brother was very instalust...
well mostly, but with reasons i wont spoil.
im confused by malinda at the end, was she good or bad...
hoping book two which is a prequel will give me answers.
definitely not a spicy book, since there was no action til the last 20% of the book and its not even a slow burn, there was just no actions, really just pining at the last section of the book, then boom sex.
very vanilla...lol.
i liked the fmc even thought her falling for either of the brother was very instalust...
well mostly, but with reasons i wont spoil.
im confused by malinda at the end, was she good or bad...
hoping book two which is a prequel will give me answers.
definitely not a spicy book, since there was no action til the last 20% of the book and its not even a slow burn, there was just no actions, really just pining at the last section of the book, then boom sex.
very vanilla...lol.
August 26, 2023
This was pretty freaking great to be honest. Morena is a complete bad ass and I really really enjoyed this take on the Greek myths about the Fates. I’ve always been obsessed with Greek mythology especially the Fates and they rarely get the respect they deserve. I can’t wait for the next one!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 14, 2024
I actually fairly enjoyed this. It would make for a really great October read with its dark and grim atmosphere. I really enjoyed the morally-grey FMC and the love triangle she found herself in. I will say that the plot seemed a bit strung together and at times nonsensical but I still enjoyed it as a whimsical fantasy / mythological style story. I was pretty engaged in reading it and that’s always a plus.
November 7, 2024
Queens of Moirai by Rhiannon Hargadon is a dark fantasy novel that combines Greek mythology with a modern-day setting. The story follows Morena, the daughter of a tyrannical queen who is destined to become Death herself. Trapped in a tower, Morena is turned into a weapon and must unite with the other Fates to stop her mother.
Fans of myth-retellings will love all of the twists and turns in dark fantasy. You'll love the world building and character development. The book contains adult material and various trigger warnings, including death, dismemberment, gore, horror, and an abusive parent.
Fans of myth-retellings will love all of the twists and turns in dark fantasy. You'll love the world building and character development. The book contains adult material and various trigger warnings, including death, dismemberment, gore, horror, and an abusive parent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 22, 2025
This book was everything I needed! one of my favourite reads
Now i look forward to reading Queen of the Blood Throne
Now i look forward to reading Queen of the Blood Throne
June 7, 2024
I'm really into mythology, the gods and fates, so I was super excited to read this. The beginning is a slow burn like most books while you're getting to know the characters and plot, but by the end, I really could not put it down! Morena being torn between being the death fate and not wanting to kill takes you on a whirlwind of emotions. You feel sorry for her but also want her to let her power shine for the good she could do. She has a heart and loves so much. Her love triangle she finds herself in makes you hurt for her even more. I'm so excited to see what's next for the Fates and the men in their lives! I'm really hoping 1 of the books in the series will dive into Vitess the fate of times story cause I really enjoy her character and I'd love to read from her point of view what it's like jumping through time. Definitely recommend this book.
June 16, 2025
"Queens of Moirai" by Rhiannon Hargadon is a fantasy novel brimming with incredible potential, boasting a fantastic concept and a captivating writing style that immediately draws you into its world. As a debut, it introduces a fascinating premise centered around the Fates, elemental magic, and a grimdark atmosphere, truly highlighting the author's creative vision. I'd rate it a very enjoyable 3.5 stars.
Where the book stumbles slightly is in the execution of its plot and character development. There's a palpable sense that a lot is going on, and unfortunately, not enough of it feels thoroughly developed. The overarching plot, while ambitious, can become complex very quickly, occasionally leading to moments where explanations feel thin or elements feel underdeveloped. This sometimes impacts the pacing, with significant time jumps that could benefit from more gradual progression.
Similarly, while the characters are initially intriguing, their development could use more depth. The protagonist's journey, particularly concerning her powers and the consistency of her growth, felt a bit uneven at times.
A prominent feature of the book is its love triangle. While many readers enjoy this trope, it's personally not my preference, and I admit this may have subtly influenced my perception. I don't hold this against the author at all — I should have researched more thoroughly before diving in — but it's a dynamic that some might find detracts from the main plot's focus. The romantic arcs, at times, felt less grounded and could have benefited from more thorough character development to support their rapid shifts.
Despite these points, "Queens of Moirai" is an imaginative and enjoyable read. The core ideas are strong enough to keep you invested, and the world Hargadon has built is genuinely exciting. This being the first book in a series, I'm hopeful that the subsequent installments will allow for deeper exploration of the intricate plotlines and the nuanced growth of its characters.
Where the book stumbles slightly is in the execution of its plot and character development. There's a palpable sense that a lot is going on, and unfortunately, not enough of it feels thoroughly developed. The overarching plot, while ambitious, can become complex very quickly, occasionally leading to moments where explanations feel thin or elements feel underdeveloped. This sometimes impacts the pacing, with significant time jumps that could benefit from more gradual progression.
Similarly, while the characters are initially intriguing, their development could use more depth. The protagonist's journey, particularly concerning her powers and the consistency of her growth, felt a bit uneven at times.
A prominent feature of the book is its love triangle. While many readers enjoy this trope, it's personally not my preference, and I admit this may have subtly influenced my perception. I don't hold this against the author at all — I should have researched more thoroughly before diving in — but it's a dynamic that some might find detracts from the main plot's focus. The romantic arcs, at times, felt less grounded and could have benefited from more thorough character development to support their rapid shifts.
Despite these points, "Queens of Moirai" is an imaginative and enjoyable read. The core ideas are strong enough to keep you invested, and the world Hargadon has built is genuinely exciting. This being the first book in a series, I'm hopeful that the subsequent installments will allow for deeper exploration of the intricate plotlines and the nuanced growth of its characters.
June 1, 2024
3.75
This book, whew! Okay, I admit that it had somewhat of a slow start and I had no idea where it was going but trust me it picks up quickly and the way everything is laid out is very beautiful! I love how the story unfolded, all the twists that I didn't see coming and that ending???? I need to sit down and-- Yeah.
I highly recommend this book and I'm definitely going to check out the rest of the series because I NEED ANSWERS.
This book, whew! Okay, I admit that it had somewhat of a slow start and I had no idea where it was going but trust me it picks up quickly and the way everything is laid out is very beautiful! I love how the story unfolded, all the twists that I didn't see coming and that ending???? I need to sit down and-- Yeah.
I highly recommend this book and I'm definitely going to check out the rest of the series because I NEED ANSWERS.
September 4, 2023
Queens of Moirai is essentially the origin story of the Grim Reaper. A girl, born a fate, born as Death, who doesn’t want to kill. A girl who is somewhat passive and introverted. Kept a captive by her own mad mother, she’s forced to watch what becomes of the dead as they serve as her rotting army. Morena’s life is a tragic one, and the book has many dark moments. Morena’s whole life is dictated by others and their desires. She dreams of reuniting the land and being a Queen of Moirai. It’s destined that the descendants of the three fates, Death, Time, Life - Atropos, Lachesis, Clotho, will unite Moirai and sit the thrones together.
But life is never that simple. Even for a fate. Morena is finally rescued from her tower, only to find she’s been deceived and the man, her betrothed, is actually not him at all. Her real betrothed, her destined soulmate, had to stay back as Vittes, Time, saw they could only resuce her if Jasper went instead. Unfortunately for Morena, she’d already begun having feelings for Jasper, ones that were seemingly returned.
But she goes along with getting to know her soulmate, Elijah. She’s quickly swept up in him, though feelings for Jasper linger.
Meanwhile, they plan to do away with Melinda the Mad, the Blood Queen. The Cullen, the zombie army, continue to move closer and attack. Atropos is a prisoner in Melinda’s castle. So a plan begins to take form. Kill Melinda. Save Atropos. But again, nothing is ever easy. And the tale of the Grim Reaper is not a happy one.
Morena’s story covers a wide swath of time, so it’s difficult to discuss in detail as she goes through so much and changes just as drastically. Going from meek and someone who goes along with their mother as she sees no other way, to someone willing to embrace what they are and end things for good. A girl who dreamed of a prince to come rescue her, only to realize her dreams were that if a silly girl. Real life is full of lies and betrayal. But she does find some good things. She makes friends and has family outside Melinda she finds solace with.
But her love life is seriously a mess! The girl doesn’t know what’s up or down. Elijah and Jasper are the two love interests we get, and they’re very different. Elijah is obsessive and possessive. Willing to do absolutely anything to keep Morena, the soulmate he’s dreamt of all his life. He’s immortal like her, and much more knowledgeable about magic and what it can do. Jasper is more fun and playful. He’s Elijah’s best friend, and there’s definitely some issues there.
I loved getting to know Vittes and Serene, Time and Life. They’re the sisters Morena needs. They push her but also appreciate her. Her blood sister on the other hand, I won’t say much cause spoilers, but she drove me crazy. Vittes is Elijah’s sister and Serene is Jasper’s, so that creates some interesting dynamics. The other boys, I won’t say who to avoid spoilers again, but I loved them too! Everyone at the Epiphany is great.
The battles here are so interesting. With someone who can reset time, you’re dealing with repeated attempts. But that doesn’t necessarily mean everything is going to end well. Because of some surprising revelations at the end, I would say it definitely doesn’t! As this is a four book series, it’s only the beginning. I can’t wait to see where this goes. I love Greek mythology and the concepts of the fates were always so interesting to me. I love the way they were interpreted here. It seems totally plausible to me that the three original fates would have argued and fought one another for control. That they would try to control things even through their descendants. I’m so excited to see where this goes next!
I received an ARC of this book to review.
But life is never that simple. Even for a fate. Morena is finally rescued from her tower, only to find she’s been deceived and the man, her betrothed, is actually not him at all. Her real betrothed, her destined soulmate, had to stay back as Vittes, Time, saw they could only resuce her if Jasper went instead. Unfortunately for Morena, she’d already begun having feelings for Jasper, ones that were seemingly returned.
But she goes along with getting to know her soulmate, Elijah. She’s quickly swept up in him, though feelings for Jasper linger.
Meanwhile, they plan to do away with Melinda the Mad, the Blood Queen. The Cullen, the zombie army, continue to move closer and attack. Atropos is a prisoner in Melinda’s castle. So a plan begins to take form. Kill Melinda. Save Atropos. But again, nothing is ever easy. And the tale of the Grim Reaper is not a happy one.
Morena’s story covers a wide swath of time, so it’s difficult to discuss in detail as she goes through so much and changes just as drastically. Going from meek and someone who goes along with their mother as she sees no other way, to someone willing to embrace what they are and end things for good. A girl who dreamed of a prince to come rescue her, only to realize her dreams were that if a silly girl. Real life is full of lies and betrayal. But she does find some good things. She makes friends and has family outside Melinda she finds solace with.
But her love life is seriously a mess! The girl doesn’t know what’s up or down. Elijah and Jasper are the two love interests we get, and they’re very different. Elijah is obsessive and possessive. Willing to do absolutely anything to keep Morena, the soulmate he’s dreamt of all his life. He’s immortal like her, and much more knowledgeable about magic and what it can do. Jasper is more fun and playful. He’s Elijah’s best friend, and there’s definitely some issues there.
I loved getting to know Vittes and Serene, Time and Life. They’re the sisters Morena needs. They push her but also appreciate her. Her blood sister on the other hand, I won’t say much cause spoilers, but she drove me crazy. Vittes is Elijah’s sister and Serene is Jasper’s, so that creates some interesting dynamics. The other boys, I won’t say who to avoid spoilers again, but I loved them too! Everyone at the Epiphany is great.
The battles here are so interesting. With someone who can reset time, you’re dealing with repeated attempts. But that doesn’t necessarily mean everything is going to end well. Because of some surprising revelations at the end, I would say it definitely doesn’t! As this is a four book series, it’s only the beginning. I can’t wait to see where this goes. I love Greek mythology and the concepts of the fates were always so interesting to me. I love the way they were interpreted here. It seems totally plausible to me that the three original fates would have argued and fought one another for control. That they would try to control things even through their descendants. I’m so excited to see where this goes next!
I received an ARC of this book to review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2023
I received an advanced ready copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was excited to read this book as the premise sounded so unique and intriguing, and I love mythology. It had the makings of what could’ve been an epic fantasy novel; the unusual names for character and locations, the world building and backstories. The fact that the opening chapter dropped us straight into an escape attempt was immediately exciting.
This fell short for me however, as I found the writing style to be frustratingly inconsistent. At times it was beautiful and almost lyrical, but at others there was (what appeared to be) unintentional rhyming or sudden changes in character placement.
‘I paced the room like a shadow without an owner’
‘The only sound was the whisper of cobwebs swaying’
‘Bloodstains decorated the satin like umber roses’
‘…there it was - a soul, faint, like a shy sunrise on a December morning’
These were wonderfully atmospheric descriptions that I enjoyed, however they were few and far between throughout the novel, and interspersed with writing that left me puzzled and took me out of the story entirely. I felt that the romance in the story moved far too quickly for it to be realistic, especially given that the protagonist has been imprisoned for most of her life, and so you would assume that she would be more guarded and wary?
I also felt that this book should’ve been longer than it was, as everything felt quite rushed and that may also be why the level of realism suffered, and why I didn’t connect to the characters.
I was excited to read this book as the premise sounded so unique and intriguing, and I love mythology. It had the makings of what could’ve been an epic fantasy novel; the unusual names for character and locations, the world building and backstories. The fact that the opening chapter dropped us straight into an escape attempt was immediately exciting.
This fell short for me however, as I found the writing style to be frustratingly inconsistent. At times it was beautiful and almost lyrical, but at others there was (what appeared to be) unintentional rhyming or sudden changes in character placement.
‘I paced the room like a shadow without an owner’
‘The only sound was the whisper of cobwebs swaying’
‘Bloodstains decorated the satin like umber roses’
‘…there it was - a soul, faint, like a shy sunrise on a December morning’
These were wonderfully atmospheric descriptions that I enjoyed, however they were few and far between throughout the novel, and interspersed with writing that left me puzzled and took me out of the story entirely. I felt that the romance in the story moved far too quickly for it to be realistic, especially given that the protagonist has been imprisoned for most of her life, and so you would assume that she would be more guarded and wary?
I also felt that this book should’ve been longer than it was, as everything felt quite rushed and that may also be why the level of realism suffered, and why I didn’t connect to the characters.
December 1, 2023
\\\\\ 2.5 \\\\\
THE STORY | Morena Atropos has lived a secluded life. Imprisoned by her own mother, she's stuck in a stone tower and doomed with her own darkness. Being the controller of Death is not an easy task. But as those she loves are taken away from her, her life just becomes darker and darker, until her betrothed comes to her rescue. Can she trust this stranger? And what about the other 2 Fates that are expecting her to help save their world?
MY REVIEW | I was really excited to get into this one. It started well and I was looking forward to seeing how it would go. The overall story had a good core but if I'm being honest, there are just some things I had trouble with.
The first thing was that I felt no connection whatsoever with the characters and it is really hard for me to enjoy my read when that happens. I just couldn't understand our FMC, her reactions were often so quick and I felt she was a little gullible and I really couldn't connect with her. She was irritating at times and a little inconsistent. I also felt like she adjusted pretty quickly to all that was happening, especially considering her backstory, so it made me feel emotionless as I was reading her story.
I also have no idea if it was just my mental state that week or what, but I was really confused all the time. When I was reading, it's like there were gaps in time in the story or I thought it would be months later considering how things had evolved only to realize it was two days later. It made it really hard to keep up with the story for me and it got frustrating after a few times feeling that way.
The love story was also hard to follow with our FMC's multiple changes of heart. And I couldn't feel any real relationship between the characters (even friendship ones) cause it all happened so fast. It was like: Hi, we are a family. But these things take time to be believable to me. I cannot imagine switching so fast and being part of something that quickly.
I'm not sure I understood quite correctly how our FMC's powers were working cause more than once I questioned myself on how this was making sense with what happened earlier. It felt like no one in this book really understood their powers to be honest, and it did not help with my own confusions.
I think that maybe this story went too fast for me? As I needed more for everything that happened to be believable and really get a connection and well developed characters. I'd say though that I enjoyed the very lyrical writing that was sometimes there, it was beautifully said and left a great impression on me. Also loved the whole mythological setting and the fantasy world created. That being said, I'm still unsure about continuing this series, I had a hard time getting through the last part of the book but I'm intrigued enough and love the setup and it definitely has great potential. The story is there, I just think that it needs more to keep me hooked, something on a deeper level.
Thanks to MTMC tours for my copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
THE STORY | Morena Atropos has lived a secluded life. Imprisoned by her own mother, she's stuck in a stone tower and doomed with her own darkness. Being the controller of Death is not an easy task. But as those she loves are taken away from her, her life just becomes darker and darker, until her betrothed comes to her rescue. Can she trust this stranger? And what about the other 2 Fates that are expecting her to help save their world?
MY REVIEW | I was really excited to get into this one. It started well and I was looking forward to seeing how it would go. The overall story had a good core but if I'm being honest, there are just some things I had trouble with.
The first thing was that I felt no connection whatsoever with the characters and it is really hard for me to enjoy my read when that happens. I just couldn't understand our FMC, her reactions were often so quick and I felt she was a little gullible and I really couldn't connect with her. She was irritating at times and a little inconsistent. I also felt like she adjusted pretty quickly to all that was happening, especially considering her backstory, so it made me feel emotionless as I was reading her story.
I also have no idea if it was just my mental state that week or what, but I was really confused all the time. When I was reading, it's like there were gaps in time in the story or I thought it would be months later considering how things had evolved only to realize it was two days later. It made it really hard to keep up with the story for me and it got frustrating after a few times feeling that way.
The love story was also hard to follow with our FMC's multiple changes of heart. And I couldn't feel any real relationship between the characters (even friendship ones) cause it all happened so fast. It was like: Hi, we are a family. But these things take time to be believable to me. I cannot imagine switching so fast and being part of something that quickly.
I'm not sure I understood quite correctly how our FMC's powers were working cause more than once I questioned myself on how this was making sense with what happened earlier. It felt like no one in this book really understood their powers to be honest, and it did not help with my own confusions.
I think that maybe this story went too fast for me? As I needed more for everything that happened to be believable and really get a connection and well developed characters. I'd say though that I enjoyed the very lyrical writing that was sometimes there, it was beautifully said and left a great impression on me. Also loved the whole mythological setting and the fantasy world created. That being said, I'm still unsure about continuing this series, I had a hard time getting through the last part of the book but I'm intrigued enough and love the setup and it definitely has great potential. The story is there, I just think that it needs more to keep me hooked, something on a deeper level.
Thanks to MTMC tours for my copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
May 28, 2024
Looking for a Halloween week book? 💀 How about a grim reaper origin story where SHE is one of the three fates and has to escape an evil mother and an army of undead? Yup, this book has the fates and zombies! 🧟♀️
Add in some male love interest drama and gruesome fight scenes and this is the perfect October read! I can’t wait for the next book
Add in some male love interest drama and gruesome fight scenes and this is the perfect October read! I can’t wait for the next book
January 11, 2024
honestly don’t know how i’m feeling about this one. on one hand, i flew through it. on another, i feel like there was so much missing. i think the story jumped around a lot and just skipped chunks of time and it didn’t help to develop anything.
it was entertaining enough that i wanted to keep reading and finish it, but it also felt all over the place and not fully thought out
it was entertaining enough that i wanted to keep reading and finish it, but it also felt all over the place and not fully thought out
September 28, 2023
Holy Cow this book! First of all, thank you Rhiannon for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
I finished this book last night and still thinking about it this morning. SO MUCH going on with this story. I feel happy, sad, excited and scared all at the same time. Can we say rollercoaster!
We have our FMC, named Morena, saved as a baby as she is special. Later we learn she is a Fate. However, Morena and her two siblings were locked in a tower for years by their heartless mother Malinda. Malinda sits on the Blood Throne so you can imagine the drama there. Morena navigates her life locked away and and longs for the feeling of true happiness.
Look, I do not want to give too much away. I rather you as the reader dive in full force with no surprises so you get the same feelings I felt when reading.
This story involves Greek mythology and folklore. Two things I know not much of but so invested in now! I found myself wanting to research after reading this book. Nerd Alert yall! Due to this aspect, it took me a bit to really get involved with the story. It was slow for me at first, but I finally went full speed ahead around chapter 6 or 7. The writing style is not bad at all. Easy to read and flows well.
This book was full of plot twists that had my jaw dropping to the floor. I love a good surprise. The story also ends on a cliff hanger. Be warned!
If you love the following items, I recommend this book!
- Greek mythology
-Folklore
-retellings
-love triangles
-Arranged marriages
-fantasy vibes
-destined lovers
I honestly cannot wait to see what happens next. I will be patiently waiting for the next book. ❤
I finished this book last night and still thinking about it this morning. SO MUCH going on with this story. I feel happy, sad, excited and scared all at the same time. Can we say rollercoaster!
We have our FMC, named Morena, saved as a baby as she is special. Later we learn she is a Fate. However, Morena and her two siblings were locked in a tower for years by their heartless mother Malinda. Malinda sits on the Blood Throne so you can imagine the drama there. Morena navigates her life locked away and and longs for the feeling of true happiness.
Look, I do not want to give too much away. I rather you as the reader dive in full force with no surprises so you get the same feelings I felt when reading.
This story involves Greek mythology and folklore. Two things I know not much of but so invested in now! I found myself wanting to research after reading this book. Nerd Alert yall! Due to this aspect, it took me a bit to really get involved with the story. It was slow for me at first, but I finally went full speed ahead around chapter 6 or 7. The writing style is not bad at all. Easy to read and flows well.
This book was full of plot twists that had my jaw dropping to the floor. I love a good surprise. The story also ends on a cliff hanger. Be warned!
If you love the following items, I recommend this book!
- Greek mythology
-Folklore
-retellings
-love triangles
-Arranged marriages
-fantasy vibes
-destined lovers
I honestly cannot wait to see what happens next. I will be patiently waiting for the next book. ❤
April 1, 2025
Mythology, female grimm reaper, dark retelling of the three fates? Heck yes!
This book had been on my tbr for a while now, and of course I'm kicking myself again for not reading it sooner!
The blurb does an amazing job of summing up the story so I'll mainly go by vibes for this review.
This stunning debut has all the vibes I love and I gobbled it up so fast! It's creepy, gothic and deliciously dark!
Forget everything you think you know about death! Morena is not what you would expect a grimm reaper to be and that positively surprised me! Despite her horrible childhood she stays uncorrupted and is in constant battle with herself because of her nature and origin.
The worldbuilding is amazing, sucking you right in and the character developement is paced very well, making you go through it along with the characters. I'm usually not a big fan of the love triangle trope but here it's done very well and nothing about it bothered me!
The further you get into the story the more you get the feeling that not everything is as we're lead to believe it is. And some things in fact turn out to be very different then expected. The plot twists and that cliffhanger had me on the edge of my seat so I'm diving straight into book 2!
💀 Fated Mates
💀 Arranged Marriage
💀 Love Triangle
💀 Secret Identity
💀 Matriarchy
💀 Greek Mythology
💀 Retelling Of The Fates
💀 Female Grimm Reaper
💀 Zombies
💀 Gothic Vibes
💀 Morally Grey MC's
This book had been on my tbr for a while now, and of course I'm kicking myself again for not reading it sooner!
The blurb does an amazing job of summing up the story so I'll mainly go by vibes for this review.
This stunning debut has all the vibes I love and I gobbled it up so fast! It's creepy, gothic and deliciously dark!
Forget everything you think you know about death! Morena is not what you would expect a grimm reaper to be and that positively surprised me! Despite her horrible childhood she stays uncorrupted and is in constant battle with herself because of her nature and origin.
The worldbuilding is amazing, sucking you right in and the character developement is paced very well, making you go through it along with the characters. I'm usually not a big fan of the love triangle trope but here it's done very well and nothing about it bothered me!
The further you get into the story the more you get the feeling that not everything is as we're lead to believe it is. And some things in fact turn out to be very different then expected. The plot twists and that cliffhanger had me on the edge of my seat so I'm diving straight into book 2!
💀 Fated Mates
💀 Arranged Marriage
💀 Love Triangle
💀 Secret Identity
💀 Matriarchy
💀 Greek Mythology
💀 Retelling Of The Fates
💀 Female Grimm Reaper
💀 Zombies
💀 Gothic Vibes
💀 Morally Grey MC's
August 16, 2025
I will agree that I felt something was missing during the first part of the story. I was enjoying it and interested. I wanted to know what would happen to the children and about the dragon’s visit. I enjoyed the world that was built. It’s gory though lol. There is a lot of death and killing. Some parts gave me the chills and the creeps.
The story does become an adventure. It is continued though. I’m going to read reviews about the next books. I can’t buy them but I’ll get a peek into what happens.
I just read that a 4 th book is coming out in 2026. The people writing reviews are not happy about the wait. I’m off to find a new book. Actually, I was late with this review and I’m almost done a book.
The story does become an adventure. It is continued though. I’m going to read reviews about the next books. I can’t buy them but I’ll get a peek into what happens.
I just read that a 4 th book is coming out in 2026. The people writing reviews are not happy about the wait. I’m off to find a new book. Actually, I was late with this review and I’m almost done a book.
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