What do you think?
Rate this book
Hunger
Éirely’s famine has been hard on everyone, except those in power.
Rua is a thief grieving her sister.
Furious at the suffering the famine has caused, Rua and her gang of outcasts steals food destined for the rich to give to the poor. Even with an informant on the inside, she is a wanted criminal. Every day could be her last.
Wolf is an assassin dying for freedom.
Wolf has been trained to kill anyone disloyal to those in power. Tasked with rooting out Rua’s informant, she is offered her freedom as a reward. This is the opportunity she's been longing for.
To survive, they must trust each other.
As their worlds collide, Wolf starts to see the thieves as more than a target, and Rua begins to rely on her as more than a friend. But Rua has to figure out who is betraying her, while Wolf must find out what she stands for – before it’s too late.
A fantastically original Irish historical fantasy filled with sapphics, sword fights and nun assassins - it’s Robin Hood as you’ve never seen her before" – Courtney Smyth, author of The Undetectables series
Rua is a thief grieving her sister.
Furious at the suffering the famine has caused, Rua and her gang of outcasts steals food destined for the rich to give to the poor. Even with an informant on the inside, she is a wanted criminal. Every day could be her last.
Wolf is an assassin dying for freedom.
Wolf has been trained to kill anyone disloyal to those in power. Tasked with rooting out Rua’s informant, she is offered her freedom as a reward. This is the opportunity she's been longing for.
To survive, they must trust each other.
As their worlds collide, Wolf starts to see the thieves as more than a target, and Rua begins to rely on her as more than a friend. But Rua has to figure out who is betraying her, while Wolf must find out what she stands for – before it’s too late.
A fantastically original Irish historical fantasy filled with sapphics, sword fights and nun assassins - it’s Robin Hood as you’ve never seen her before" – Courtney Smyth, author of The Undetectables series
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2025
1 person is currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Fran Quinn
2 books3 followersFrances Quinn is a writer from Dublin, Ireland.
She has a BA in Philosophy and Sociology, MSc in Business Management, and MSc in Climate Change: Policy, Media and Society. She spent a year living in New Zealand, travelling there for the Rugby World Cup, and has also travelled around Europe and America.
She is an avid music fan, reader and very amateur painter. When she’s not hanging out with her friends, she’s babysitting her nieces. She spends an incredibly large amount of time resting.
She has a BA in Philosophy and Sociology, MSc in Business Management, and MSc in Climate Change: Policy, Media and Society. She spent a year living in New Zealand, travelling there for the Rugby World Cup, and has also travelled around Europe and America.
She is an avid music fan, reader and very amateur painter. When she’s not hanging out with her friends, she’s babysitting her nieces. She spends an incredibly large amount of time resting.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
November 13, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! It’s a great slightly sapphic retelling of Robin Hood in the context of a dystopian Irish potato famine inspired society.
For me the characters were all really likeable and I’m looking forward to hopefully finding out more about them as the series progresses. I even think that there is more I want to understand about the villain. The storyline was fast paced which I appreciated and I think for a first book this gave me a great overview of what to expect from the author moving forward, without overworking the base concept.
The book lost a star for me for a few reasons. Firstly, I found Rua to be really annoying. It was tolerable but she was just SO immature at times that it was aggravating. Secondly, I felt like a few aspects of the story were glossed over and that the book would maybe have benefitted from a little more description to really immerse you in the world. However, I’m a big fan of epic and high fantasy so perhaps this personal bias. I also think some of the character relationships would have been improved by a little more detail and depth, but with this being book 1 of a series, I’m willing to overlook this slightly in the hopes that those characters are not important moving forward. Lastly, I found the twists a little predictable and nothing really left me shook, but it was still an enjoyable journey to get there.
Overall, the book is definitely worth a read and I really enjoyed the emphasis it placed on Irish language and culture, as well as the fact it didn’t shy away from the brutality of famine but still made for an enjoyable read. I’m really glad that I found this book through the authors’s TikTok and bought it on a whim and I’ll definitely be reading the other books in the series and recommending it to friends
For me the characters were all really likeable and I’m looking forward to hopefully finding out more about them as the series progresses. I even think that there is more I want to understand about the villain. The storyline was fast paced which I appreciated and I think for a first book this gave me a great overview of what to expect from the author moving forward, without overworking the base concept.
The book lost a star for me for a few reasons. Firstly, I found Rua to be really annoying. It was tolerable but she was just SO immature at times that it was aggravating. Secondly, I felt like a few aspects of the story were glossed over and that the book would maybe have benefitted from a little more description to really immerse you in the world. However, I’m a big fan of epic and high fantasy so perhaps this personal bias. I also think some of the character relationships would have been improved by a little more detail and depth, but with this being book 1 of a series, I’m willing to overlook this slightly in the hopes that those characters are not important moving forward. Lastly, I found the twists a little predictable and nothing really left me shook, but it was still an enjoyable journey to get there.
Overall, the book is definitely worth a read and I really enjoyed the emphasis it placed on Irish language and culture, as well as the fact it didn’t shy away from the brutality of famine but still made for an enjoyable read. I’m really glad that I found this book through the authors’s TikTok and bought it on a whim and I’ll definitely be reading the other books in the series and recommending it to friends
February 28, 2025
“Hunger” by Fran Quinn starts with a bang, immediately gripping the reader from the first scene and refusing to let go until the last page. This book is perfect for readers who love a ragtag group of friends, a quiet uprising against the hierarchy, fighting for the underdog, a secret society of assassins, and a forbidden love.
Rua and her motley crew of thieves have a trusty informant who reveals when food is being transported so they can steal it. Because the problem is that the food never makes it to those who need it. Instead, it’s shared between those who are rich, leaving the poor to die on the streets. Rua and her friends have had enough of watching their people die due to Éirely’s famine and the greediness of those in power. Now they've taken it upon themselves to feed their people, even if it comes at the risk of being killed for it.
At a young age, Wolf began her training as an assassin. She’s a deadly weapon taught to kill, never disobey an order, and never betray those in power. These early teachings don’t prevent her from wanting to be more than a tool or for wanting her freedom. When she’s offered a task at finding out who's stealing food from the higher ups and who their informant is, she can’t refuse the opportunity—not when the prize is what she’s wanted all along: freedom.
What an incredible read! The cast of characters is perfect! They come from different backgrounds with a variety of skillsets, but they manage to work together toward a common goal and despite the bleak situation, they manage to have a few good laughs with one another. Within a few pages, it’s easy to tell how much they respect and care for one another and why Rua tends to be the natural-born leader. She’s got a big heart and cares immensely for those around her, even those she doesn’t know personally. She’s a true Robinhood! Something else that is enjoyable about the characters is the fact they’re so complex. Normally the lead takes the main stage, but that isn’t the case here. Every character is fighting for something, and they all have their own reasons for fighting back against those in power. Those reasons are heartbreaking, but it allows the reader to love them even more.
As far as fantasy books go, this one’s quite easy to follow along. The world-building is exceptionally done. Readers get a good feel of the tension between people as everyone is fighting for survival by whatever means, even if that requires them to fight among one another. There’s also a sense of fear when it comes to the guards and those in power, a constant threat looming above their heads, a reminder to stay in line … or else. And the hunger everyone feels, that desperation to do whatever it takes for the next meal, the next crumb, the next beat of their heart that tells them they’re still alive and not succumbing to hunger and plight that has plagued their land.
The romance in this is very much a slow burn but it works so well. It never gets in the way of the plot, allowing the reader to fully enjoy the high-stake moments and the heart-stopping twists. Yet, there’s still space for it to develop and happen naturally, allowing the reader to understand why these two characters work so well together and why they find a natural haven in one another.
One aspect that could have been developed a little further was Wolf’s training as an assassin. Some of it gets revealed in the story, enough to know it wasn’t pleasant. But learning more about her training would help to explain some of the choices she makes and the inner turmoil she has at times between what she needs to do and what she wants to do. And it may reveal more about the history of the assassins too: how they remained secret for so long, what the others have to gain, etc.
Overall, “Hunger” by Fran Quinn is an absolute banger of a story and should make it onto everyone’s TBRs. Be sure to grab yourself a copy on the expected publication date of April 4th, 2025. Thank you to BookSirens and the author for providing me with an e-arc of this book and the opportunity to share my honest opinion in this review.
Rua and her motley crew of thieves have a trusty informant who reveals when food is being transported so they can steal it. Because the problem is that the food never makes it to those who need it. Instead, it’s shared between those who are rich, leaving the poor to die on the streets. Rua and her friends have had enough of watching their people die due to Éirely’s famine and the greediness of those in power. Now they've taken it upon themselves to feed their people, even if it comes at the risk of being killed for it.
At a young age, Wolf began her training as an assassin. She’s a deadly weapon taught to kill, never disobey an order, and never betray those in power. These early teachings don’t prevent her from wanting to be more than a tool or for wanting her freedom. When she’s offered a task at finding out who's stealing food from the higher ups and who their informant is, she can’t refuse the opportunity—not when the prize is what she’s wanted all along: freedom.
What an incredible read! The cast of characters is perfect! They come from different backgrounds with a variety of skillsets, but they manage to work together toward a common goal and despite the bleak situation, they manage to have a few good laughs with one another. Within a few pages, it’s easy to tell how much they respect and care for one another and why Rua tends to be the natural-born leader. She’s got a big heart and cares immensely for those around her, even those she doesn’t know personally. She’s a true Robinhood! Something else that is enjoyable about the characters is the fact they’re so complex. Normally the lead takes the main stage, but that isn’t the case here. Every character is fighting for something, and they all have their own reasons for fighting back against those in power. Those reasons are heartbreaking, but it allows the reader to love them even more.
As far as fantasy books go, this one’s quite easy to follow along. The world-building is exceptionally done. Readers get a good feel of the tension between people as everyone is fighting for survival by whatever means, even if that requires them to fight among one another. There’s also a sense of fear when it comes to the guards and those in power, a constant threat looming above their heads, a reminder to stay in line … or else. And the hunger everyone feels, that desperation to do whatever it takes for the next meal, the next crumb, the next beat of their heart that tells them they’re still alive and not succumbing to hunger and plight that has plagued their land.
The romance in this is very much a slow burn but it works so well. It never gets in the way of the plot, allowing the reader to fully enjoy the high-stake moments and the heart-stopping twists. Yet, there’s still space for it to develop and happen naturally, allowing the reader to understand why these two characters work so well together and why they find a natural haven in one another.
One aspect that could have been developed a little further was Wolf’s training as an assassin. Some of it gets revealed in the story, enough to know it wasn’t pleasant. But learning more about her training would help to explain some of the choices she makes and the inner turmoil she has at times between what she needs to do and what she wants to do. And it may reveal more about the history of the assassins too: how they remained secret for so long, what the others have to gain, etc.
Overall, “Hunger” by Fran Quinn is an absolute banger of a story and should make it onto everyone’s TBRs. Be sure to grab yourself a copy on the expected publication date of April 4th, 2025. Thank you to BookSirens and the author for providing me with an e-arc of this book and the opportunity to share my honest opinion in this review.
February 3, 2025
"Hunger: Blighted Empire" offers a fresh take on the Robin Hood mythos, setting its tale against the backdrop of Ireland's devastating famine. This historical fantasy seamlessly weaves together elements of heist narratives and political intrigue while exploring themes of class inequality and survival.
The story centers on two compelling protagonists: Rua, a principled thief leading a band of outcasts, and Wolf, an assassin trained by nuns to maintain the status quo. Their dynamic evolves from adversaries to something more complex, creating tension that drives the narrative forward. The author skillfully develops their relationship while maintaining the stakes of their opposing goals.
The heist elements shine throughout the novel, featuring well-choreographed action sequences and clever schemes that keep readers engaged. The absence of magic makes these scenes particularly impressive, as characters must rely on wit, skill, and careful planning rather than supernatural abilities. This grounding in reality adds weight to the consequences of each decision.
The Irish setting provides a rich historical foundation that elevates the familiar Robin Hood framework. The author's handling of the famine period feels respectful while serving as more than mere backdrop - it's integral to understanding the characters' motivations and the story's central conflict.
The writing is polished and confident, balancing character development with pacing that keeps the plot moving. While the political machinations occasionally slow the narrative, they add necessary depth to the world-building and raise the stakes for our protagonists.
Fans of both historical fantasy and heist stories will find much to appreciate here. The novel successfully combines the social justice themes of Robin Hood with the intricate plotting of "Mistborn," minus the magic system. The inclusion of LGBTQ+ elements feels natural to the story rather than forced.
A strong start to what promises to be an engaging series, "Hunger: Blighted Empire" delivers a compelling narrative that leaves readers eager for the next installment while telling a complete story in its own right.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story centers on two compelling protagonists: Rua, a principled thief leading a band of outcasts, and Wolf, an assassin trained by nuns to maintain the status quo. Their dynamic evolves from adversaries to something more complex, creating tension that drives the narrative forward. The author skillfully develops their relationship while maintaining the stakes of their opposing goals.
The heist elements shine throughout the novel, featuring well-choreographed action sequences and clever schemes that keep readers engaged. The absence of magic makes these scenes particularly impressive, as characters must rely on wit, skill, and careful planning rather than supernatural abilities. This grounding in reality adds weight to the consequences of each decision.
The Irish setting provides a rich historical foundation that elevates the familiar Robin Hood framework. The author's handling of the famine period feels respectful while serving as more than mere backdrop - it's integral to understanding the characters' motivations and the story's central conflict.
The writing is polished and confident, balancing character development with pacing that keeps the plot moving. While the political machinations occasionally slow the narrative, they add necessary depth to the world-building and raise the stakes for our protagonists.
Fans of both historical fantasy and heist stories will find much to appreciate here. The novel successfully combines the social justice themes of Robin Hood with the intricate plotting of "Mistborn," minus the magic system. The inclusion of LGBTQ+ elements feels natural to the story rather than forced.
A strong start to what promises to be an engaging series, "Hunger: Blighted Empire" delivers a compelling narrative that leaves readers eager for the next installment while telling a complete story in its own right.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 20, 2025
Loved the book! I enjoyed the writing style with its little bits of the Irish language thrown in. I was engaged in the characters from the beginning. And the cover artwork....!! Did not realize that this was a beginning to a series. I wonder how many books are planned for it? Hopefully not too many, I've read enough many 7-10+ volume series. I highly recommend.
April 20, 2025
This is a beautiful written fantasy retelling of the Irish famine. I loved the snippets of Irish language throughout and the authentic friendships between the characters. An absolute page-turner with surprising twists and a huge amount of heart.
April 20, 2026
I'm going to be honest. I feel like this book is not an adult historic fantasy. It reads more like a dystopian YA. This book also desperately needed a line edit. I did enjoy the constructed government structure and enjoyed the take on a Robin Hood retelling.
April 4, 2025
Thank you to BookSirens and Fran Quinn. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Our main character, Rua, is a sort of 'Robin Hood' during the famine in her country, Éirely. Those in power hoard the agricultural resources in secured keeps while the common citizens starve. Rua and her gang of outcasts steal food on its way to the keeps and redistribute it among those facing poverty.
Rua struggles with impulsiveness and her desire to 'save' everyone she cares about. This leads to complications, and she meets our second main character, Wolf, while attacking a caravan that turns out to be a trap. Wolf saves Rua, and she is invited to join the group. Wolf seeks freedom after being inscribed into a secret society at the age of five. She accepts Rua's offer and infiltrates the rogue group to earn her release from those in power.
As Wolf becomes more involved with Rua's gang and their cause, she struggles to stay focused on her mission. She finds herself embracing the kinship and friendship she has never had before. The internal conflict she experiences is palpable, and when things go awry during an attempt to liberate more food from the hoarders, she will be put to the test.
This was a wonderful read. I enjoyed the dual perspectives of our two main characters, Rua and Wolf. The themes of trust, the acceptance of friendship, rebellion, and the search for one's truth were compelling.
Our main character, Rua, is a sort of 'Robin Hood' during the famine in her country, Éirely. Those in power hoard the agricultural resources in secured keeps while the common citizens starve. Rua and her gang of outcasts steal food on its way to the keeps and redistribute it among those facing poverty.
Rua struggles with impulsiveness and her desire to 'save' everyone she cares about. This leads to complications, and she meets our second main character, Wolf, while attacking a caravan that turns out to be a trap. Wolf saves Rua, and she is invited to join the group. Wolf seeks freedom after being inscribed into a secret society at the age of five. She accepts Rua's offer and infiltrates the rogue group to earn her release from those in power.
As Wolf becomes more involved with Rua's gang and their cause, she struggles to stay focused on her mission. She finds herself embracing the kinship and friendship she has never had before. The internal conflict she experiences is palpable, and when things go awry during an attempt to liberate more food from the hoarders, she will be put to the test.
This was a wonderful read. I enjoyed the dual perspectives of our two main characters, Rua and Wolf. The themes of trust, the acceptance of friendship, rebellion, and the search for one's truth were compelling.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews