Destiny Arising

by Jan Foster

Five Queens will die… bringing chaos to the Naturae realm.

Aioffe and Joshua return to Tudor England seeking a safe haven for their family, yet celestial portents predict disaster. Under Queen Mary I’s rule, the Catholic church has gripped power and the fae are in danger and unwelcome.
Imprisoned for murder, their friend and se’er witch Nemis awaits her trial, but is crippled by visions of royal deaths.
When Queen Mary dies, political and religious upheaval shroud the horrifying truth. Aioffe and Joshua are the only people who believe Nemis’s prophecy… a killer of queens has started a campaign of terror.
As the trial looms, with Nemis’s life at stake, the murderer strikes again. It becomes clear - being different doesn’t mean you are invincible. Aioffe is destined to die next, unless the hunted becomes the hunter.
Past and present collide as the family embarks on a dangerous and forbidden journey across Elizabethan England and Scotland in search of answers. Can they capture the murderer before more queens die and a Treaty protecting all fae, witches and vampires is destroyed? Or is Aioffe’s destiny foretold after all?But… if five crowns tumble… King Henry Fitzroy, a vampire ruling over a fae nation, can’t help but see the opportunity in Nemis’s prophecy. Is this the moment when he arises into his destiny?

★★★★★ Destiny Arising – Book 3 of the Naturae Series, infusing Tudor times with magic. Weaving together suspenseful adventure, mystery and authentic history, this historical fantasy with a dash of horror will keep you turning the pages to reveal the truth of the past. If you like magical realism, hidden worlds, historical authenticity, swashbuckling adventure, and captivating characters, you'll love the Naturae Series! ★★★★★

Genres: Fantasy

478 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 19, 2024

About the author

By day, Jan juggles consultancy work with her family, but by night she sneaks off, into the past. Her penchant for sprinkling history with magic is fueled by coffee and Cadburys. When not writing, Jan takes her dogs and small monsters into the countryside, especially if there is a castle or historic building there with a cosy coffee shop in which to escape the rain of Manchester, England.

Reviews

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 5 out of 5]

Destiny Arising is the third instalment in the Naturae series and is my favourite so far! This series gets better and better with every book, and I raced through this one.
Jan Foster has outdone herself with this book, and the amount of research and digging that must have gone into this book is evident throughout each page.
Set in Tudor Times in the UK, we follow Aioffe and Joshua on a murder mystery of sorts befitting to the time period. Someone is murdering Queens, and after visions, plague Nemis (a witch seer) of murders to come, the pair race to stop them from happening. But Naturae needs their queen back as Henry can not bless the vines for the pupae - only a queen can do this, and he is both male and vampire. However, Aioffe doesn't want to be Queen, she never has - she just wants to raise her daughter and be with her family. If Aioffe becomes Queen again, this will put her in danger, too. Jan did an amazing job at sticking closely to the factual information of Royals during these times and weaving fantasy into the story. Henry has secured a place in my heart in this book, and I do feel he is a very misguided character. The ending was very well done, and I had to slow myself down as I couldn't read the last few chapters fast enough, and I didn't want to miss a thing.
The Witch trials were heartbreaking, harrowing, and stomach turning and so if you are squeamish or triggered by this kind of content, I would avoid this chapter.
If you've not heard of this series, you really need to pick it up - fantasy lovers like myself will devour these books with Fae, witches, vampires, and magic....what are you waiting for!

[Andrew Claydon · Rating 5 out of 5]

History meets fantasy in another awesome book!

I imagine it's a tough job to mix the two together, but as usual, Jan manages it admirably. She clearly does the research, which comes through in the knowledge of historical events.

But this book isn't about the research, it's about the story and let me just say...it delivers.
If you enjoy morally grey characters, flawed protagonists and a nice bit of murder mystery, then this is the book for you.

This series continues to get better with every instalment!

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author, to me, is unique. I love the blend of history with fantasy, true historical references and people, but shaped into a magical world, a world of Fae and vampires and creatures. Oh and the clergy, yeah, this is set in the 1500's where religion and church were omnipotent. And what an interesting notion, that Vampire's and Fae were instrumental in the demise of Catholicism in England! How the author weaves these truthful historical facts, of the corrupt clergy and church, where the Protestant and Catholic faith is itself on trial, the struggles and volatility of the British monarchy, together with pure fictional elements, such as vampires, witches and Fae, so effortlessly, so believably, to unveil a tapestry fitting for a museum, to be shared by all, studied by all, and admired by all. I know I have mentioned it before in previous reviews of books by this talented author, the prose, the storytelling, how well written the works of Ms Foster are, is a delight to my heart., my senses and my love of her characters. Who are SO diverse, who are SO real, who are just plain awesome!

This is not a book for the feint of heart, there are a few scenes, historically correct scenes, that turned my stomach! It brings to light the horrors of that period, the bias of that period, a period in history known for it's violence. But the story, the plot Jan animates onto a magnificent tale, as I've mentioned, is infused with magical beings, of a love like no other, of greed, both personal and clergy, that I was sucking in my breath as it unfolded. There is much to describe, which I won't because you need to read it yourself but these characters stand out like beacons in a dark field, ALL of them! There isn't a definitive line between heros and villains, which I personally enjoy. I like to see the 'good' in even the most vile of characters, although.... Illania might be the exception to the rule! There were so many moments I wanted to inflict SOMETHING on her! Her disdain for her people, for her own daughters is master class villain!

I know Henry is technically the villain but I like him, I like him so very much. He's not a bad sort, more a misguided, love starved, complexed sort. Shunted, denied and finally MADE into a creature, he has all my sympathy. All he ever wanted was to be acknowledged for the king he should rightfully be. Morally grey? Heck, he's every single hue of grey there is! I adore him! Especially when he shows his softer, more humane side, which Fairfax brings out so beautifully. Spencer who has the wrath of a queen to contend with, his romance with the witch Nemis, and his loyalty to Aoife challenged them to the core, they both nearly met their end though not by the same hand. But the stars in this epic tale, to me, are Aoife and Joshua. From their beginnings as captive and capturer, the steady progression of guilt, misunderstanding and realisation, to the culmination of the most gorgeous of love stories, captured my heart! Which pounded in time to theirs through all the immense challenges and dangers they faced, I mentally urged them on, cheering every victory, cringing at every stumble. And golly were there LOTS of those! The action! Oh my, the action was so riddled with tension I was in danger of self combusting!

A tale of such brilliance that transcends worlds. A tale of Queens and their untimely deaths, both real and magical, a tale of a wannabe king by any means, a tale of earth shattering revelations that totally has ME in a tizzy, a tale of battles to survive, of manipulation and strife, of church and faith, of loyalties so profound and of a love so true, in a well paced read. A tale with characters the author crafts with such ease, like they were malleable clay, shaped by her very hand. I don't think it can get better than this! It is an enormous challenge for ME to pen my words in describing this book, they want to flow like a tap but I need to turn the faucet off at some stage or you'd be swamped! But such is the emotion this author elicits from me, she wraps me up in delights I want to consume on an ongoing basis, not to let it out my grasp for a second! Read it and you'll understand....

[Kyrie Wang · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Look at me,” Henry ordered quietly. “For I am here at your loved one’s behest. And I will not fail you.”

Oh Henry!! <3 And this how I envisioned him:

I just finished this book with the exhaustion and joy of running a marathon. It wasn't an easy read, with a very complex plot and many many characters to keep track of, but I'm kept reading because I wanted so badly for Henry's story to end well. Regarding the ending... well, I'll have to read the next one now, lol.

Henry is such a flawed yet loveable/relatable protagonist (or antagonist, depending on the POV). He's always in some kind of internal struggle and generally chooses what is kinder despite sabotaging his own pursuits. I just want to squeeze him in a big hug sometimes. Yes, squeeze-hug him despite the fact he's a vampire!

What I also loved about this novel is Foster's employment of juicy, real history (stabbing, cheating, the stuff of medieval tabloids) to further her plot. Sometimes, the events seemed unbelievable until I Googled and discovered that truth is wilder than fiction. I learned quite a bit about the Tudor period and am so glad I didn't have to be a royal at the time *sips tea before picking up cellphone again* ahhhh, to be a regular nobody in the 21st century is amazing!

Henry is actually Henry Fitzroy, King Henry VIII's son, but a bastard one who tragically died in his late teens in "real" history. But in Destiny Arising, he's been revived as a vampire and looks as youthful as the year of his death. Hurrah! Witches, demons, and fae also populate Foster's book and influence or trigger events in human history. It's so much fun!

I was less fond of the witch trials, visions, and in general, Aioffe’s side of the story as she is actively avoiding something (the throne in the fae realm) while Henry's goal is to obtain and maintain something. She did, of course, pursue the killer of Queens, but I found this story thread very plot-driven whereas I prefer character-driven stories that involve personal growth, deepening of relationships between people, etc.

Now, I have read only ONE other mystery-thriller book in my life. In trying to read outside my usual genres, I read this one, so take the following with a grain of salt. I found the motivations driving the principal antagonists were revealed too late (one telling it all at 90% into the book). There were not enough hints leading up to it, which made the shocking events happening beforehand seem random.
Then I'd fast forward to Henry's chapters because that's who I really cared about... Once again, however, I don't usually read murder mysteries or thrillers, so I'm not the best judge of them. There may very well have been hints earlier on that I missed...

I enjoyed this read for its lush historical details, fae vs vampire plot, and morally gray characters. Foster has really put out a genre-blending historical fantasy that isn`t like anything I've ever read. If you're looking for something different, try this book!

*I skipped the chapter titled 'Pricking' altogether because of the trigger warning provided to me by the author. Doing so did not make me lost in the story.
*I received an ARC of this book and all opinions are my own.

[E.G. Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a fondness for all subgenres of fantasy, but historical fantasy is, I think, quite intriguing. The ability to weave precise details of history with the breathtaking wonder of magic is a special skill. There are, of course, many ways a person can write an alternate history, but to follow along with history? To write magic into the past? Marvellous.
Destiny Arising is the third book in Jan Foster’s Naturae series. (Somehow I missed the second book?! I’m still not sure how, but it wasn’t strictly necessary for this book. Though I will go back and read it!) It follows Aioffe, Joshua, Nemis, Spenser and the two children Mark and Hope as they return to England and flee the European fae and Henry, the vampire who currently sits on the Naturae throne. Nemis is plagued with visions of queens dying, and when they start to come true, Aioffe and Joshua must stop it before it’s too late for England and Naturae both.
Now, I will be the first to admit I do not know all the precise details of the late Tudor/early Elizabethan England, especially regarding the various lines of succession and who controlled what/where, or even the various alliances. My knowledge is limited to the basic Protestant vs Catholic and general information on who ruled at the time. That is to say, I know enough to get by when talking about the period, but little more. This book, though, was a perfect immersion into the time. It described both daily life and the larger political schema with perfect detail; there wasn’t enough to be overwhelming, but nor was there too little as to leave the reader behind. This is a consistent pattern with Jan Foster’s books. The history is always impeccable.
I also loved the interplay of the vampire Henry’s difficulties on Naturae. He came across initially as a sinister figure, but as the book went on, he became more sympathetic and complex, which I enjoyed quite a bit. By the end, I was almost feeling like he needed to stay on Naturae, given how little Aioffe wanted to regain her title. Also, I think Iliana deserved precisely what she got.
I will say that the twist regarding Iliana and her, ah, machinations, was a bit unexpected. It makes sense in hindsight, but there wasn’t really a great deal of evidence to point in that direction. Granted, this book is not a murder mystery, but a fantasy with a quest and a goal, so this is probably just my fondness for the mystery genre overpowering my expectations.
Overall, I will say that Destiny Arising is an excellent continuation of the series and I enjoyed it thoroughly. The pacing was superb, the detail exquisite, the characters complex and real (even those with wings), and I enjoyed every part of the book. I would highly recommend this series to any and all who care to dive into the world of history tinged with the wonder of magic.

[Annette Grantham · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Destiny Arising" by Jan Foster is a masterpiece that skillfully combines elements of historical accuracy with enchanting fantasy, making it a standout in the genre. Jan Foster's deep dive into Tudor/Elizabethan England is interwoven with a rich tapestry of fae, vampires, and magic, creating a vivid and immersive experience. The story doesn't just revolve around historical events; it breathes life into them, blending the real and the fantastical in a way that keeps you captivated from start to finish.

In this third installment of the Naturae series, the narrative continues to thrive, building upon the established lore and deepening character arcs. The central figures, Aioffe and Joshua, alongside their allies, navigate a complex web of political intrigue and dark magic that threatens the very fabric of both their worlds. The author has done an exceptional job at maintaining a tight plot while expanding on the universe's lore, making each page essential and exciting.

The character development is particularly noteworthy. Each character is crafted with care, possessing distinct voices and believable motivations. The morally grey nuances of their personalities make them relatable and compelling, adding layers to the narrative that invite readers to explore their own ethical boundaries.

Moreover, the pacing of the story is perfectly managed. It holds the reader's attention through a balanced mix of action, dialogue, and description that never feels overwhelming. Foster's prose is both elegant and accessible, ensuring that readers are not just reading a story but experiencing a world.

Overall, "Destiny Arising" is a triumph of storytelling. It’s a book that not only entertains but also enriches the reader's understanding of both history and human nature. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or historical fiction, this book is a profound journey that shouldn’t be missed. Jan Foster has truly outdone herself, delivering a novel that is both thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable. I cannot recommend it enough and eagerly await the next chapter in this brilliant series.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been absolutely addicted to this series. Each installment adds a new layer, a new challenge, and lets you dive deeper into this fictional historic version of the UK. This was no exception, easily drawing you back into the story, and reacquainting you with characters from previous installments. There was so much going on in this one - a lot of players in the game, and one of them has deadly intentions. The plot is complex but moves along smoothly, and makes it extremely hard to take reading breaks. It does get a bit dark sometimes, and some real things that happened are referenced, so be aware of that going in. This isn't a light fantasy - it's heavy, it's full of morally gray characters, and it'll stick with you long after you finish the final page. I highly recommend starting from the beginning so you can fully appreciate the level of character and world-building, but if you enjoy historical fantasy, you don't want to miss out on this series!

[David and Susan McConachie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a retelling of the English Tudor period (starting with Queen Mary) with the addition of magic and magical creatures. Nemis, a witch and seer who is in prison for murder, has portent dreams of herself dying 5 times, each time a crown falls. This is interpreted as 5 Queens will fall (die). Joshua and Aioffe believe the prophesy, and after two Queens fall, Aioffe believes she is the third. How is she going to escape her fate? Aioffe travels around England and Scotland, sometimes with Nemis's family and a friend of the witch and Fae, sometimes with just Joshua. I loved reading this book, it ticked all my boxes - magical creatures, mystery, travel, magic, and a really good story. I must admit that I am not keen on history, but if my history teacher had taught the subject with Vampires, Fae, Witches and the like I would have been a much better student.
I read an ARC of Destiny Arising

[Marcela · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous addition to the Naturae series

Author Jan Foster has done it again! When reading this book, be prepared to be taken on an emotional journey full of twists and turns that will take you back to the Tudor era. All the research the author must do when writing this series is fantastic. I learned so many little tidbits about Tudor history. In this book, you can’t help but feel you’re part of Aioffe and Joshua’s story as their love, family, friends, and some unexpected characters help them fight against the evil that has surrounded the country.

If you’re a fantasy and historical fiction fan, you will not be disappointed with the mix of characters, including fae, vampires, witches and humans, who may also be a little shady. Finally, the ending will definitely keep you wanting more. Now, I can’t wait to read the next book!

[Casey Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in the Naturae series, set in Tudor England, is an epic saga which seamlessly weaves fantasy with history. Having read one of the prequels, but not books one and two in the series, I felt there was enough back-story provided throughout this third book to make sense of the plot, which is complicated and many-peopled.
The in-depth research undertaken by Foster brings authenticity to this work of richly-imagined fiction and it is the historical details I found most interesting because, as the author points out in the end notes, truth is stranger than fiction.
If you like magic realism and adventure blended with historical facts, this series is for you.

[Mary Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

History Bent in an Entertaining Way

The story of Naturae and Aioffe and Joshua continues with a big dose of historical Tudor England. Henry Fitzroy plays a large role, but I almost want to rate this book 4.5 stars due to Henry's exit at the end of the book, and it's not clear if another book follows to continue the story soon. The rest of the plot is highly entertaining and I like the author's historical perspective clarification at the end.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read the other books in the series, and this well-written story continues to hit in all the right places. The way Foster weaves historical events in with Fae and Vampires is absolutely brilliant.
Although each book could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the books in order to fully emerge yourself in this riveting tale.

[Markus Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite the fantasy read and I did appreciate the blending of Tudor lore and the monarchy into the story. On the longish side but there’s enough going on in the plot to warrant it. Probably better appreciated by bigger fans of the specific fantasy genre than me but I appreciated the amount of work put in and it was an enjoyable read!

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a great third book in the Naturae series, it had that feel that I was looking for from the previous two books. I enjoyed how good the characters continued to feel and was glad I got to read this. Jan Foster has that writing style that I wanted and enjoyed,

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[R.F. Whong · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the third installment in Jan Foster’s Naturae series. It’s a challenging read due to the intricate plot and numerous characters. I like how the author blended historical details with the enchanting essence of magic. There are numerous methods to craft an alternate history, but integrating magic into real historical events requires true talent.

All in all, it’s a good read.

[Nicole Nadeau · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s always risky combining fantasy with history, but Destiny Arising does so beautifully. You feel like you’re in Tudor era England, while at the same time the story has that magical touch that fantasy readers adore.

And the addition of complex characters and a flawed protagonist just puts it over the top.

Well done.

[Denise T. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliantly written tale of history and fantasy entwined. This book is long, and complicated but a great story if you are a history lover Iike me. The story was very well researched. The author is a talented writer.

[Hanna Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great third book in the series and I look forward to more books. Great characters, a great story, and wonderful elements.

I received a copy of this book via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.