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The Daughter of Deadwood

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Ophelia Ravenward came into the world knowing nothing except that she had just climbed out of a hole, the sound of Ravens was unbearable, and that if she didn’t run, she wouldn’t live through the night.

She is led to safety by an unkindness of unruly ravens, and finds herself at the foot of Deadwood Manor. There, Lady Nikollette and her wards, the cheery Amarine and the Divided half-human, half-ghoul Barnaby, welcome her.

Ophelia is offered sanctuary, aide in unraveling her forgotten past, and the chance to unlock her magical potential. Together, Lady Nikollette, her wards, and Ophelia travel to Spellevue, a tower that stands at the heart of Sominor. There, under the watchful eyes of the Eldweavers, Ophelia must first complete the dangerous Trial of Talismans if she ever hopes to become a Spellweaver.

Unbeknownst to the good people of Sominor, a dark plot is taking shape. A plan to awaken the long-slumbered Endless King, a Spellweaver corrupted by dark magics. The Endless King, in his twisted quest to save the people of Sominor from the fear of death, seeks to turn every living soul in to one of his endless. A grave threat, casting an ever-looming shadow of the otherwise peaceful land.

310 pages, Paperback

Published October 13, 2024

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22 people want to read

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Allen Isom

7 books13 followers

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Henley.
111 reviews1 follower
October 29, 2025
I received an ARC of this book, which does not affect my review. Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the chance to read this book.

Ophelia Ravenward’s story is fast, and you will find pages fly by. It is creepy and exciting all in one, with dark forests, monsters, and magic. There is also the mystery of Ophelia, who must uncover her past, and the story of Renee whose journey occurs in another POV. Since this is written for a younger audience, the multiple timelines might cause a little bit of confusion, but not so much to make things too fuzzy. There is a fairly large cast of characters to account for, at least for a middle grade novel, in addition to chapters and times switching. I think some readers will find it suited for them and others, especially younger, might grow a little confused, but on the whole the story develops nicely and maintains its pace.

There are large stakes in this story, not only with Ophelia having to complete the Trial of Talismans to possibly become a Spellweaver while also untangling her lack of memories, but also with the Endless King who has horrible plans for all living beings. Needless to say, that is a lot for our cast of characters, especially Ophelia, to face!

I really enjoyed the overall threat and the villain(s) because they feel very real and they have legitimate motivations, even if those motivations don’t make sense to others. It makes for not only a scary yet realistic threat, but a sense of conflict you feel as the reader. As this threat unfolded, I found myself more interested in the story, so the second half of the book pulled me in a little more than the first. As Ophelia completes the trials, it was hard to stop reading! In addition, the world created in this book, Sominor, is written very well. Not only does it have its own unique feel, but its history and the characters who comprise it feel well thought out. Where this might fall a little short could be confined by the target age of the book, not so much the story itself. With so much history, as well as two stories essentially running in tandem with each other like when the Elders were younger versus when Ophelia comes around, I sometimes wondered if the scope of the world would have had more time to develop in a slightly longer book, maybe a book for older audiences. At times, the book read very much like it was for teens the age of Ophelia, in that things were explained clearly and most of my questions were answered. Other times, the large number of characters, switching between timelines, and fast pace created something that I could see becoming a little overwhelming depending on the type of reader. However, none of this takes away from the excitement of the story, especially as characters begin to confront each other and the Endless King’s grand plan takes shape and certain characters realize true loyalties.

The ending is both bittersweet and left open for more adventures, which is nice for readers who want to invest in a series. I would be interested to see how the characters’ fates continue to unfold. My overall rating of this book would hover around a 3.5 due to some of the confusion as I adjusted to the fast pace, timelines, and dual stories, but the story was well plotted, well thought out, and told in a way that can interest many ages, so it is an easy round up.
Profile Image for Skirmantė.
144 reviews16 followers
October 27, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

3.5 ⭐

The Daughter of Deadwood by Allen Isom is a fast-paced read set in a spooky world of dark forests and old manors. There’s plenty of action, but sometimes it moved so quickly that the story became hard to follow. With so much happening — and two timelines to keep track of — it was challenging to settle into the flow. I found myself losing interest about halfway through and struggled to connect with the characters or fully immerse myself in the story, despite the intriguing setting. Still, I pushed through to the end, 'cause mama raised no quitter.

The magic system felt vague, leaving a lot unexplained and adding to the overall confusion. By the end, there were plenty of unanswered Whys and Hows, which was frustrating.

That said, I loved the gothic atmosphere — it’s eerie and beautifully described, and it kept me engaged.

Overall, it’s an interesting book with some noticeable flaws. As for book two? I’m still on the fence about continuing.
Profile Image for Natasha.
63 reviews8 followers
October 25, 2024
This book is a fast-paced, gothic fantasy that pulls you in from the very first page. The story’s dark atmosphere, with its eerie forest and mysterious Deadwood Manor, sets the perfect backdrop for a gripping tale of magic, mystery, and self discovery. The plot is well crafted, filled with twists and secrets, keeping you hooked as Ophelia unravels the truth about her past.

I loved the vivid descriptions of the manor and the cursed woods, which brought the world to life and made it feel both haunting and enchanting. The supernatural elements, like the ravens and undead creatures, are intriguing but could use more explanation to fully understand their role in the larger magical world.

Fans of gothic fantasy and mystery will love it!
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.8k reviews361 followers
October 31, 2024
A New Purpose . . .

Ophelia Ravenward, who at the time did not have a name, started her existence crawling out from the middle of a hole. She had no idea how she got there, what her name was, and when she looked back at the hole, it had disappeared. Ravens cawed around her, but she didn’t know if they were happy or mourning her arrival. The rain was cold on her skin and soaked her cloak, making it heavier to wear. She screamed and at least the ravens went quiet… but only for a very short time. Something shadowy moved in an unnatural fashion among the trees. When it looked directly at her, she ran with the ravens alongside her. Then she fell. She heard the thing coming after her, so she got up and ran again. But a branch snagged her cloak and she again fell. The beast had four legs, antlers, and eyes reflecting a flash of light that may be coming off the beast itself. Ravens began to attack the beast she knew was a buck. As she ran and the ravens followed, she wondered if they were helping her? And where were the snippets of knowledge she heard coming from? Then the chase was on again and finally the trees were behind her and instead she stared at rows of headstones. She knew she had to hide and headed for what she knew was the Manor. A gate was marked “Ophelia” and she went in. The undead buck followed, trying to catch her scent.

Lady Nikollette A’Mysteriouse was awakened by an unfamiliar sound in her home at Deadwood Manor. She and her wards, Amarine and half-human/half-ghoul Barnaby, welcome Ophelia. Will they help her remember her past? Will they help her regain her magic? First Ophelia must survive the Trial of Talismans in order to become a Spellweaver one day. She may be the only hope the people will have against the Endless King, a Spellweaver who has been corrupted by dark magics into thinking he will save the people from fearing death by turning them into one of his “endless”. Is this what Ophelia is being prepared to battle against?
Profile Image for Shane.
31 reviews
December 30, 2024
This was a very intriguing book that caught my attention from the start.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I'm always on the lookout for something that's a little different than the same ole thing, this book did it. Ophelia didn't know where she came from or who she was but after finding her way to Deadwood Manor, she started a journey that would change that.

I really enjoyed the mystery and magic that was a great part of this book. Each character had their own special abilities and used them well to add life to the story.

But there is dark magic in the realm and not all happy with Ophelia's sudden and unexplainable entrance into this world. On top of that Ophelia has to prove she is worthy of learning magic.

I am definitely looking forward to the next book and continuing my journey with all the people of Deadwood Manor.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Lisa Bentley.
243 reviews11 followers
November 1, 2024
‘Only dead things come out of those woods’
This book was spooky,creepy and fast paced. Set in two timelines it shares the journeys of both Renee and Ophelia.
I loved the magic elements and the trial they had to undergo to be considered worthy.
I felt quite sorry for Renee and the Endless king who although caused suffering to others did what they did out of love and grief.
I’ll definitely be reading the second one to see what happens to all those at Deadwood Manor 💜
Profile Image for John.
174 reviews13 followers
November 29, 2024
I admit I liked this a lot more than I thought I would. I also would read more about these characters and by this author.

The characters were interesting and fleshed out. The parts about magic were insightful and original. It definitely held my interest and I admire the originality.

My only (slight) criticism would be that there were some errors that left me perplexed- only in so much as I had to reread certain parts over and over to get the meaning. That was all that kept it from five stars.

(If the author is interested I could share my notes).

This WAS an advanced copy, and reviewed this voluntarily.
Profile Image for Taura Wildes.
Author 1 book4 followers
September 30, 2024
Ⓑⓞⓞⓚ Ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ

"𝑶𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒐𝒅𝒔"

Ophelia Ravenwood crawls out of a hole in a forest of dead trees with no memory or how she got there or even who she was.

After claiming a name from an engraved mausoleum, she is taken in by Lady Nikollette to live in Deadwood Manor. There, Ophelia meets Nikolette’s wards, Amarine and Barnaby, and the three strangers vow to aid in the untangling of Ophelia’s forgotten past and to explore and nurture her magical potential.

Together, the group travels to the tower Spellevue, situated in Sominor, where Ophelia must compete in the Trial of Talismans in order for the Eldweavers to deem her worthy of becoming a Spellweaver.

Beneath the surface of this peaceful land, a dark plot is simmering to wake the Endless King, a corrupted Spellweaver who plans to turn every living thing into one of his Endless.

Alongside the on-going threat of the Neverwas, Ophelia, amongst the people of Sominor, must face this impending doom before it endangers their entire existence.


𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘋𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘸𝘰𝘰𝘥 is the first instalment of the 𝘖𝘱𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘢 𝘙𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘸𝘰𝘰𝘥 book series.

The extensive world created by Allen Isom is incredibly vivid and intricate. The lore depicted in this book is captivating and reads as though Isom is documenting an actual world he has encountered.

This novel features strong characters that compliment each other well and Isom delves into some of the character’s intriguing backstory, although it’s obvious there is still so much to learn within this series.

The narrative switches between the past and present which adds an immersive layer to the plot and reveals some context of the Neverwas, Endless and Spellweavers. The pace of the plot is coherent and compelling, with enough happening to keep you engrossed without becoming overwhelmed.

Isom leaves the ending somewhat open, which is to be expected in a series, but I still felt satisfied with the answers I received and cannot wait to read what comes next.

This dark fantasy novel is perfect for the spooky season and promises readers an enthralling experience.

Release date: 13th October 2024

I recieved an arc copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Jenni’s_bookin_it.
7 reviews3 followers
October 21, 2024
I need to find out who Ophelia is! Where does she come from??? I have to have number 2 NOW! I am not going to be happy until I have all of the answers!
81 reviews1 follower
October 18, 2024
Waking up in an unfamiliar place can be disconcerting at the least but the bottom of a hole covered in branches and debris? Getting out to find a predictor hovering. Many scary adventures ahead - edge of my seat through most of the book. Enjoy
Profile Image for NatNat BatCat.
45 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2024
I enjoyed the world being created, but it felt a little rushed at times. A lot is going on that I lost interest and had to put it down for a bit and power through it. I loved the magic and mystery of it all. Not sure if I will continue with book 2 when released. The story is enjoyable and it was nice to have a different type of story. I needed more of when the Elders were younger before it moved to the 2nd generation, there are too many unanswered questions!
Profile Image for Ron Lauman.
19 reviews
October 13, 2024
Ophelia Ravenward is an interesting story of gothic magic, undead creatures, and a young girls journey into that world. I really enjoyed the world building and look forward to further exploring Allen’s world. I highly recommend it for anyone who is a fan of a gothic atmosphere filled with strange creatures and magic.
Profile Image for ~Book Dragon~.
118 reviews
December 10, 2024
Ophelia Ravenwood Daughter of Deadwood
3.5 🌟
Super unique magic system and story.
I received an advance copy for free, all feelings are my own and I am reviewing voluntarily. I really enjoyed the story, it was so unique. The very beginning gave me little nightmares vibes. I think Ophelia’s story flowed better, the past was a little choppy. There were a few holes in my opinion, I hope for them to be addressed in the next installment. I want to know how the trails came to be as they just showed up with no real explanation. I want to learn more about Ophelia and all the Manors, how the Eldweavers came to officially be.I really really enjoyed it and want to continue the story
Profile Image for Robyn Little.
134 reviews10 followers
Read
October 7, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

this spookfest is perfect for October!

a little girl lost in the deep dark wood with no memory and the creepy little house with something so suspicious. Who is Ophelia? What is the story of Greenwood Manor? Renee? Antoinette? What is their role? Are they connected to Nikolette? The unkindness of ravens is leading somewhere could it be the Endless King? The story wraps you into the pages you are done within hours trying to find out. Creepy fun all around?
Profile Image for Jenni.
99 reviews1 follower
November 18, 2024
I received an advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.

The premise of this book is fairly intriguing, and I was able to read through it rather quickly. However, the storyline was a bit hard to follow. I’m still not entirely sure where Ophelia came from, though I have my guesses.

Some feedback for the author - there were an incredible amount of typos in this book. - Character mix up?: Ch the defenseless heart of renée roché. Introduced characters Diedrich & Victor, but Renée introduced herself to Diedrich and Marcus? Diedrich is misspelled as “Dierich” soon after, and in the next chapter spelled “Diedrick”. Continues to be misspelled several times. Constance is spelled as “Contance” multiple times as well.

To me, those are careless mistakes that really detract from the story as it appears that it was a rushed story.
Profile Image for Laneie.
137 reviews4 followers
November 4, 2024
If you love gothic fantasy and mystery, this is the book for you. The world building is so good. It sucks you in from page 1. You have a young girl journey who wakes up not knowing anything. Undead creatures and more. I can't wait for book 2
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Smutty Demi.
563 reviews15 followers
November 6, 2024
Wow, this book is full of action, twists and turns that really draws you into the book. Was a real page turner and enjoyed every chapter. Definitely recommended!
Profile Image for Micki-D.
1,347 reviews37 followers
November 3, 2024
A little girl lost in the dark forests with no memory and the creepy old manor little house with something so suspicious. This book is a fast-paced, gothic fantasy, that pulls you in from the very first page and never lets its grip on you go. With magic, mystery, twist and turns, secrets, intrigue, and self discovery.

The narrative switches between the past and present, with beautifully vivid descriptions of the manor and the spooky woods bringing the story to life and it jumps out the page at you in hauntingly striking way.
Profile Image for Melanie.
47 reviews
November 4, 2024
Confession: I'm an adult but I LOVE young adult and middle grade, and this book was no different. I'm a very fast reader already, but I flew through this in 2 days. Ophelia is a very well written lead and the rest of the cast is just as enticing. When I say I could see this being a movie that everyone from tweens to adults love, I mean it. So, what drew me in initially was the cover, but the story ended up being just as great. I really really enjoyed my time reading this and I'd definitely read more in the future. Do I recommend this for teens? No...I recommend it for *literally everyone*!!
Profile Image for Kat M.
5,194 reviews18 followers
November 7, 2024
I really enjoyed this as a opening chapter in the Ophelia Ravenward series, it had that dark fantasy element that I was looking for. The characters worked with everything that I wanted and enjoyed the adventure element going on. Allen Isom wrote this so well and enjoyed the concept of this. The characters worked with the monster element and was glad everything worked overall. I wanted to read more in this series and more from the author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Phthon.
2,320 reviews7 followers
January 1, 2026
What a freaking cool story! I loved how it started! All fear and mystery. Everything revealed as Ophelia learns it, or the information is needed as in the case of the flashbacks. I have a theory about Ophelia but I want to find out if I am right before sharing it. This book was super cool and fun to read!
Profile Image for Cyndi Taylor.
511 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2024
The writing in this book is beautiful. The descriptions are vivid and really put you into the scene. I thoroughly enjoyed this.

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