Rites of Passage

Witch Queen #2

by A.D. Starrling

It’s all fun and games until someone pisses off a Witch Queen…

Weeks following the events that led to her awakening and her initiation into the New York coven as the Witch Queen prophesized to rule the world of magic, Mae Jin is still trying to get a semblance of her life back together. But disaster strikes when her apartment gets attacked by ghouls, driving her into the thick of the action as she helps Nikolai Stanisic figure out the origins and purpose of a mysterious skeleton key that falls into his hands by accident. A key the Dark Council was guarding.

Forced to travel to Philadelphia for the Annual Grand Meeting of all covens, Mae finds herself treading a fine line amidst the cutthroat politics of the covenstead and the senior witches and sorcerers who wish to put a leash on her. When they discover that local magic users have gone missing, Mae, Nikolai, Vlad, and the others stumble upon a link between the disappearances and the skeleton key.

After Nikolai’s brother Oscar and the demon Barquiel steal a sacred grimoire from the covenstead, Mae realizes all the incidents are connected and that there is a traitor amongst them. With help from some unlikely allies, Mae and her friends rush headlong into a race to uncover the secret behind the skeleton key and the book of spells. Will they figure out the Dark Council’s wicked scheme before all is lost?

Nerves will be frayed. Steak will get eaten. Snark will be committed.

Join Mae Jin and her riotous gang in Rites of Passage, the second book in the brand-new urban fantasy series Witch Queen. Featuring a mortuary assistant who labels herself 'just a chick from Koreatown who likes beer and cutting people up,’ a sardonic fox, a steak-loving sentient weapon, and a whole bunch of other worrisome characters, Rites of Passage picks up where The Darkest Night ended and sees our reluctant witch forced to endure yet another fantastical adventure full of magic, monsters, mayhem, and snark. Get the riveting second book in this action-packed series today and enter a universe you won’t want to leave. Or may not be allowed to leave. Some of those characters really are worrisome...

Witch Queen is the third series set in the bestselling Seventeen universe and follows on from the Seventeen and Legion series. It contains references to characters in the other series and the odd cameo appearance.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Magic

332 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2024

About the author

A.D. Starrling is a bestselling author renowned for her pulse-pounding fusion of urban fantasy, action, adventure, and supernatural suspense. With a passion for history and a gift for intricate plotting, she crafts captivating narratives that transport readers across time and continents. Her Seventeen series, featuring immortal warriors with extraordinary abilities, has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated global following. Her authentic research and skillful character development keep readers hooked, while her love for action movies infuses her work with electrifying combat sequences and story lines.

When she’s not busy writing, A.D. can be found eating Thai food, being tortured by her back therapists, working part-time as a doctor on a Neonatal Intensive Care unit somewhere in the UK, reading manga, and watching anime. She has occasionally been accused of committing art with a charcoal stick and some drawing paper.

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Reviews

[Cindy Deporter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow Mae Jin had no idea how much being the Witch Queen would change her life and that her professional life, her families business and her responsibilities as the Witch Queen would impact on all. On top of it all Vlad and Nikolai are becoming stronger as is her connection to them. Is it all related? Of course the Sorcerer King remains a threat and the appearance of ghouls and the disappearance of magic users is happening and there can’t be that kind of coincidence? Mae Jin finds herself pulled in many directions all needing her time and attention. She is also learning to deal with her own increase in powers and abilities. Loved this second book and loved that the Immortals have made an appearance! The action is nonstop with many twists and turns. Mae has many people she can count on and they count on her! Enjoy!

[Pam Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another winner for AD Starrling. I got the ARC for Rites of Passages and just finished it. Mae is a wonderful character as the Witch Queen and the guys Vlad and Nicolai are superb. Vlad, being an incubus is sex on a stick but Nikolai isn't bad himself. In fact I personally prefer him. Vlad is just a little too obvious for my taste. *L* The book takes up where the previous book left off and Mae has matured into the Witch Queen. We get to see several high priestesses of other covens and their animal companions. The best are still Hellreaver and Brimstone. They are the funniest of all the characters and snarky with a capital S. I loved seeing them getting into trouble and then seeing them get out of trouble too. This is yet another really good read by her. Highly recommended!!!!

[Tawnya · Rating 4 out of 5]

As usual the author kept me entertained throughout the book. There was still the tedious “which will she choose” aspect. As a kid I read some Harlequin super romance novels. EVERY!! single time the woman choose the dude that was obnoxious and sometimes down right abusive. Needless to say I am going to guess Mae will wind up with Vlad even though he has used his power over her repeatedly despite being told to stop. I wish that he was written differently. I like his back-story and in this book we get to meet his family. They are lovely. We also get to meet some of the other covens from around the world. I felt that one of them changed from being a snotty “I am young and rich and I know everything and Mae should kiss MY feet and do what I want” foot-stomping brat a little too quickly. If she hadn’t stopped after Mae’s first display of power I don’t feel like she would have changed after the battle-at least not without being more invested. Maybe if some from her coven were specifically named and put in peril she would have believed. I still detest her “I’m God’s gift to everything” attitude. Put her with Vlad. They’d make a great couple.

The action part of the book was fast-moving. I would have liked to know which kind of Immortal, Bastian or Crovir, are the two in the book-one of which we met in the last one. I am guessing since this is not tied directly to those societies we will never know.

Most of the book takes place in Philly at a yearly convention where all the covens meet. I am guessing there were more than what was specifically mentioned. Indeed trying to list them all would have meant a book the size of OED. Still I hope we get some more stated covens next time. Brim and Hell continue to be delightful. The ending left me wondering, “How does one punish a piece of metal that is indestructible?”.

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bewitchin

I’m not saying I want my very own demonic sword or nine-tailed spirit fox—I mean just think of the grocery bills—but I’m also not saying I don’t. “Darkness and light. Sin and temptation.” Mmmhmm, so much yummy, electrifying UST amongst Nikolai, Mae, and Vlad—nngh, and can I get a heck yeah for Vlad’s solution? I’m thoroughly enjoying watching these three circle around each other as well as Nikolai’s and Vlad’s varied approaches to earn Mae’s heart. I know what I want to happen but until then, I’m gonna enjoy the heck out of this ride.

But now for the reason why I love this series so much: our strong, independent, sassy heroine, Mae. I adore how she’s not afraid to:
* always be herself—can you hear the sarcasm?
* fight—she’s so sexy when she gets angry.
* stand with those she believes in—I have unshakable faith in her and her growing skills.

She’s amazing and I love her and this series so much. The depth and dynamics of these characters; the incredibly witty, clever, engaging dialogue; and the thrilling, nonstop intense action has me breathless with anticipation of how everything will play out. I do have some guesses, or hopes I should say, but I know this is a truly fascinating and fantastic world that only keeps getting better and better. It’s official: I’m completely bewitched.

[Caroline Hannam · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off – I haven’t actually read book one, yeah, so I didn’t know the characters and their back stories and initially I had to work out who is who, what their abilities are and what their relationship to each other is.
Overall it wasn’t that difficult and the story itself was great and worked pretty well as stand-alone, especially because this adventure came to a satisfactory close, while leading on to the next book in the series.
The characters are well developed and the personalities of the main players interesting and vivid.
Mae Jin, Vlad and Nikolai are coming to grips with their abilities and are growing stronger and Mae’s resourcefulness and spunk gets here through a number of scrapes.

There are exciting battle scenes and interactions with different foes and the structure and politics of the different factions is interesting and filled with conflicts and alliances.

I enjoyed the read greatly and plan to read the next book and to familiarise myself with the characters read the first book too.

I received this book from the author and am leaving this review of my own volition.

[JILL Stock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow you know when you read a book and it's the start of a series and you think it's really good the next book can't be any better, well I think this one is. I love this seriers , please do not look to spoilers in my review cause they are none. I just simply ask that you read this wonderful piece of work and enjoy it for what it is. In a word brilliant. Please read this I know you will get hooked. It is a well written and paced book series which I highly recommend you read from the beginning as it helps to you to understand the arc of the story.

[Peter S Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, Wow and double Wow

What can one say? This Witch Queen series is my first experience of AD Starling’s work. It is quite refreshing to find a series that is crafted in such a manner that the characters who support the Witch Queen are very entertaining as their antics bring quite humorous asides. The world building is captivating and enlightening. The different light and dark creatures are developing into very interesting beings to pay attention to. Book 3 is waiting to be read.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the Witch Queen series! I ended up reading the book in one day, there was so much happening constantly, and I loved the snarky humor between the characters. In the first book, I was rooting for Vlad as Mae’s love interest but in the second book found myself rooting more for Nikolai. Also, definitely have to mention Mae’s grandmother, Ye-Seul, who is funny and open minded about new experiences.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mae Jin and her crew are back in the Seventeen universe. I really enjoy reading A.D. Starrling books that take place in the Seventeen universe. Mae JIn begins to learn that there are many more supernatural beings than vampires and witches. It is always eye blowing to me how surprised characters are when confronted with the news that the supernatural universe is wide open. You never know what kind of creature you will find in Starrlings Seventeen books. Always fun to read and discover.

[Nereid · Rating 3 out of 5]

Magic, mayhem, and demons

A fun read, Mae continues to learn more about her powers and Nai Ri's past. Nikolai and Vlad are still trying to win her heart. Evil is winning,and the witches seem to always be one step behind. If you like books with magic, demons, witches, and a magical prophecy, then this series is for you. There is no sex or swearing, so it is suitable for younger readers.

[Rebecca Schuler · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has fully and officially drawn me in. I love Mae and her growing cast of support characters. The reincarnation of the witch queen comes with the expected drama and action scenes but are nicely balanced out with humor and budding romances. I can’t wait for the next book. Highly recommend.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another fabulous UF/PNR offering from A.D. Starrling. This addition to the Witch Queen Series is filled with drama, action, adventure, danger, magic, and amazing main characters. The powers of the main characters are growing as are their relationships, and chemistry. I love this series and would recommend it to others. I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Carrie O’Leary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed the second instalment in the Witch Queen series. I love the links to characters from other books in the Seventeen universe. Mae is finding confidence in her new-found powers. I love the dynamics with an extra dose of snark between the characters. Can’t wait for the next book in the series

[Oz & · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic 02

So our witch queen is finding her feet slowly the bad guys are still one step ahead and she still can't decide which of the two men who could be hers is the one she wants and with a fox familiar an sentinel weapon giving her grief life is hell literally especially when you add in the demons😈 ❤️📚❤️

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just can’t get enough of this series

Mae is an incredible lead in this series - both strong and vulnerable, very capable of looking after herself, but prioritising those around her. She is clearly destined to be a leader and I’m about to download the step along her path to greatness.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mae Jin is an amazing character that draws you into the story. Magic, fantasy that had me wanting more. Becoming Witch Queen isn’t as easy as she thought. A well written second book, hoping there are many more to come.

[Alina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly one of the best series that I have read so far in 2022. With hunor and magic at the forefront, how could you nor possibly love this novel??!!! The cast of characters amd premise are enough to keep you well entertained and giddy throughout.
I am already ready for the next!

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not disappointed! Excellent book. As always, a page turner full of action and suspense. I can't wait to read the next one!

[Alun Humphreys · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in what is promising to be a great series. Loved it from start to finish. Cant wait to see what happens next.

[terry james · Rating 5 out of 5]

Addictive

Can't put down impossible to stop reading from start to finish, I need more I will have to search for other titles.

[Jennifer Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

HellReaver..🤣🤣

Omg I laughed so hard...Mae sure got her work cut out for her...HellReaver has to be one of my most favorite character/non characters to date..

[Pam Koenig · Rating 4 out of 5]

Meet the families

Kickass witch, friends & family travel to a meeting of the covers and all hell breaks loose. Love the familiars with their insatiable appetites.

[Brian Frazier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great fun!

I think she will settle for both suitors! Should be white magic user though. I like how she can immediately understand a spell and improve it!

[DMA · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Another hilarious, violent and thrilling read in this series. Mae and her band of unusual friends have to stop more horrors from occurring.
Very entertaining.

[Michele Keeling · Rating 5 out of 5]

rites of passage

I cannot stress how much I am loving this series. Absolutely brilliant story. Already got the next book in the series

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this and have become seriously addicted to this series.
The battle between good and evil continues but this time it takes place in Philadelphia.

[Mary Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really loving all the characters in this series would give a 4 star if there was more romance

[Mary Rowe · Rating 3 out of 5]

the epic continues

As Mae familiarizes herself with her burgeoning abilities, attacks continue from all sides - making it difficult to ascertain who is friend and who is foe.

[Christine Scotney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Love A D Starrling’s work.
Full of lots of action, fight scenes and plenty of Magic, plus a lot of humour from the characters. Just imagine one day being a normal ( if there is anything so called normal) and then all of a sudden your the proclaimed Witch Queen, and you have never done anything magical in your life. That was in the first book. Now Mae Jin’s powers are growing and so are the powers of her two leading men, Nikolai and Vlad.
The story just flows so well and is easy to read, and remember, if you have had to read in smaller doses like I have, ( not enough time in the day when your busy).
I love how the Immortals make an appearance and my favourite motley crew from Chicago also get a mention or two. Brilliant.
I received an arc of this book from the Author, (thank you, AD) and this is an honest feed back review. I have also purchased the book. Excellent and Fun.

[Lois · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monsters Galore

The 2nd book in the Witch Queen series moves us to Philadelphia and the annual meeting of all the Witches and sorcerers, but who is on the side of light or dark. This explosive installment if full of demons and ghouls and a few friends from previous series as well as new family. Fast paced with twists and turns aplenty, this is easier as good as the first book, if not better