Thorns From The Fall

The Hunting Vengeance Duet #2

by Jess Wisecup

GWYN

Roman went from target to collateral damage. It seems my heart will suffer the same fate.

After killing Bjorn Ericsson, Gwyn has taken control of the Chicago coven that Roman Sauveterre calls home. It's a betrayal she knows he will never forgive her for—and she doesn't think she deserves it anyway. Now that Gwyn has gotten her vengeance, she has plans to weaken the vampire population significantly, even if she won't be there to see it through.

She got what she wanted, but why doesn't she feel any better?

ROMAN

My heart resides firmly in my chest—thumping hard, raw and bloody, it remains.

Gwyn Parsons has made a fool of him, and he wants her dead. Gwyn has taken everything, yet has managed to give Roman back the one thing that matters his brother. Though she holds him as collateral against Roman, he begins to make plans of his own. If he can free his coven and his brother, maybe he'll be able to free himself from her grasp.

Will Roman be able to kill the woman who stole his heart along with everything else?

Genres: Vampires, Enemies To Lovers, Fantasy Romance, Dark, Vampire Romance, Dark Romance, Paranormal Romance

369 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 18, 2025

Reviews

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Feathers From the Sky was a revelation to me in a lot of ways. I found it to be unique and a standout among Vampire Romances and it was a TRUE Enemies to Lovers. The way that book ended lived rent free for ages. Needless to say, I went into this book with high expectations.

I do think the author stuck to her guns for the level of darkness and toxicity that Gwyn and Roman portrayed in book 1. There was very little softening and after the events of the cliffhanger ending, I understand Roman's ire and hatred for Gwyn. I know they couldn't just get all soft and fluffy when certain things were revealed. Also, vengeance doesn't care what's fair or what is "owed" to whom.

However, I guess after how well planned the coup was in book 1, I was expecting a bit more.... direction for this book? Instead, I felt like it was all in chaos. It was hard to follow and Roman and Gwyn are physically separated for a good part of the story. I just never quite knew what was happening.

I also didn't care for the level of suicidal thoughts and self-hatred that Gwyn had. I KNOW mental health is a huge part of this story, and yes, I read the TWs. It just made it so hard to pick the book back up again and again. My stomach was sick and I wasn't enjoying it.

Finally, the nickname... the nickname that Roman calls Gwyn, 23 times... yes, I looked up how many at one point.. it really soured me on him. I know he has to hate her to a certain degree, but it made him very unlikeable to me. I can't force myself to just accept it. So... here we are.

I just didn't understand their connection anymore, not like I did in book 1. And with how much darkness and angst this book contained... I needed more a reprieve in their romance. And I sadly didn't find it here.

BUT, if you adore toxic relationships and you don't mind some vampire bites and blood play.. The Hunting Vengeance Duet stands apart for me. It's so different from others and I think the author commits to her story, no matter how unpopular it might be with someone like me.



3 Stars
4 on the spice scale

CW: Sibling Death, Suicide & Suicidal Ideation, depression, substance abuse, gun violence, kidnapping, toxic and hateful relationship dynamics at times

*Thank you to Haus of Fables and the author for a gifted ARC.*

[Tay_is_reading_again · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

What a fantastic conclusion to this vampire dulogy! After the jaw dropping ending to book 1, I was so glad I was able to go straight into my eARC of book 2!!




Thank you so much to the author and Haus of Fables for the electronic advanced readers copy!

[Ash ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Read
Happy Release Day 💌

I have stayed up countless of nights to make sure I got to read both books before release day today. Worth it! The way that the first book ended had my heart fall out of my chest and the way I got to IMMEDIATELY pick up the second book? F E R A L.

[Thank You House of Fables for sending me this! You have no idea because that ending of the first book had me so distraught!]

I was so beyond excited for this book with everything I saw on Instagram. I love me a sexy vampire love story — ESPECIALLY a vampire x hunter, I ate this shit UP! I think I was expecting a little more from the second book, I feel like the characters faltered a little bit and the spark that made them who they were just completely disappeared into different people. However, with what they were going through, I completely get it. Depression can make you lose yourself. I think I just missed Gwyn’s sassy mouth from the first book, her getting mad at Roman for what he did had me so annoyed with her, please be so for real. Gwyn just completely went into a downward spiral and regretted everything SO quickly!

which… fair! I think I would have as well cause girl! I WAS STRESSING!!!

I also feel like so much started to happen and I was having such a hard time keeping up with everything. This book is the definition of enemies to lovers in a way that I can see it’s not for everyone. It was so toxic and just so incredibly messy, but the scenes in here had me licking my phone.
↴
*if I could, I would put the picture of Josh Hutcherson*

OVERALL, it was definitely a rollercoaster of a duo, just like Gwyn and Roman. They were both vulnerable and raw (🥁) and were both beautifully imperfect and flawed. The yearning, the betrayal, the lust, the hatred, I was on my knees.

[I think I just need to sit and think about these two a little longer. I’m going to miss them]

—— Also, when can we get more of Nico? I was waiting for him to appear more! It’s BEEN his moment! 🖤

[ms.Violetg Likes To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

“If anyone is k!Iling you, it's me, ma petite cafarde. My k!Il, my business. But I'll decide, do you understand?"

Ending her would ruin me more than I already am....

With my hand on her throat, I bring her to the brink. And when she cries out, I follow her siren song into the dark.

"Sometimes life is just too goddmn hard."

I had the opportunity to read Thorns From The Fall, book two in the Hunting Vengeance duet and my heart is still reeling and so in love!

I've had days to process the way this book burrowed into me, and I am still unable to adequately convey all that I feel. My love for these characters, for their experiences, for the beautiful brutality within these pages, and for how this authors writing speaks to me, all while also keeping this review spoiler free.

With that, please know that Thorns From The Fall AB SO LUTELY delivered and was a phenomenal conclusion to the Hunting Vengeance duet!

These characters are raw, dark, hurting, and emotionally complex... and their continued relationship development was deliciously maddening, toxic, and devastatingly perfect!

Thorns From The Fall begins immediately following the concluding events of Feathers From The Sky, and I was immediately captivated, flying through nearly 70% of this book in one sitting.

I loved this emotional journey. From the betrayal, to the heartbreak, the hope, vulnerabilities, utter devastation, immaculate and impactful mental health rep, to the twist and turns. I am floored, absolutely fantastic!

Thorns From The Fall is available NOW on KU! My most sincere and genuine thanks to Jess Wisecup and @haus.of.fables_pr for the opportunity to this fantastic e-copy!

[Ceacea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Dark Paranormal (Icelandic Vampire Lore)
⭐️3.5/5
🌶 3/5
🧠 3/10
Noteworthy: Book 2 of a completed duology. Dark themes include depression, self-harm ideation, and on page self-harm. Check TWs. Available on KU.

I feel sort of wrung out after this series. This may be the world's most toxic roller-coaster. I can't even say much without spoiling book 1, so I will keep it brief. The two mains are so rough on each other in this series. Do not expect flowers and soft words because they don't even really grow here. I suppose that's realistic, considering they are vampires. 😂 The mental health rep is dense in this one. It's all over the page and hard to read at times. But if you or someone you know has dealt with depression or self-harm, please proceed with caution. Be patient with these mains. They have been and go through so much. I appreciated the heavy family loyalty represented in this series as well. Also, once again, the plot twists were incredible.

My biggest issue was the pacing and the MMCs' nickname for the FMC in this one. I know he was angry, and it was explained at the end, but I still hated it, and it made me cringe every single time. I also wanted just a bit more of Remy, like maybe a POV. I didn't connect with him as much as I wanted, considering the impact he had on the entire story.

If you can handle the mental health triggers, I am begging you to pick this up and don't give up on it. It's worth the pain!

[Kiki.andhershelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

After throughly enjoying book one in the Hunting Vengeance duet (HIGHLY RECOMMEND), I dove straight into Thorns from the Fall, which is book two.

Again, I was impressed by the writing, it was witty and deep and I liked the mental health rep. The way the author weaves her words is immersive and poetic at times. Without giving away spoilers for book one, this follow up takes you on a wild ride where our main characters grapple with deep betrayal, heartbreak and loss. It’s got Mr and Mrs Smith vibes having gone from enemies to lovers to enemies, and I was there for it. They find themselves in a toxic hate/love dynamic that threatens to consume both of them. The inner monologues of both characters had me laughing, their witty banter was the best and the spice was sizzling! And talk about yearning, it was gut wrenching.

This book deals with some heavy topics at the forefront, and my heart broke for both characters at different points. Roman has my whole heart - that man is just perfection! And Gwyn is definitely one of my favourite recent FMCs, I related to her in a lot of ways. I also adored all of the side characters, they just all had their own quirks and I found them so endearing - they could definitely have their own spin off books.

All up, this was a great ending to the duet, if you like your characters dark, insanely hot, broken in their own ways and comedic at times, you will probably enjoy this one. Definitely check your trigger warnings before going into one - it has heavy themes and some gore.

Tropes:
🩸Plus Size FMC
🩸Lovers to enemies
🩸Found Family
🩸Mental Health Rep
🩸Hate to love you
🩸Hate s*x
🩸Sexy Vampires


Thank you Haus of Fables for providing me with this eARC!

[Jess *lovetolovebooks* · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember reading Feathers From The Sky back in 2023 for my book club and being absolutely shocked by the cliffhanger. I love when an author isn’t afraid to go full unhinged and leave us dangling off a cliff and that’s exactly what Jess Wisecup did with that ending. I was left wondering just where in the hell she was going to take these characters and us readers, and oh baby let’s just say it was a satisfying end to this duet.
Thorns From The Fall had a lot of work to do. Mainly it needed to repair so much damage done in the first book especially in terms of damage done to relationships. We see a reunion between two characters, we also witness and feel the heaviness that depression and suicidal thoughts/ideation has on more than one of these characters. We feel the ache and anger of losing a loved one. And we feel the burn of loving someone through all the hurt and pain they may have put you through but being unable to stay away. Roman & Gwyn are the definition of messy but they love each other even when they hate each other. I am so happy I was able to read their conclusion!

4⭐️
4🔥

What to expect:
Book two in a duet
Plus size FMC
Vampires
MF
Their relationship is complicated, toxic, & chaotic
Lots of biting & blood drinking
Depression rep
Blood play
“Crawl”
Hate banging

TW/CW (taken from the author’s list in book): Depression, suicidal ideation (active and detailed), grief, hazardous alcohol use, substance use disorder, sibling death, suicide, eye gore, severed limbs, gun use, graphic on page death and violence are the most important to note.

[Desiree Hiatt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Haus of Fables for the gifted advance copy!

“Roman was able to love someone like me. I just don’t deserve it anymore.” 😭

“Swearing an oath to my uncle had been worth the eternal bullshit I’d have to put up with, as long as I got a chance to tell her how I felt while attempting to free her.”

“I long for his violence and his embrace, for his simmering hatred and his fire.”

“We’re both so fucking messy in so many ways and god dammit if I never want it to stop.”

“There’s a soft piano playing in my lungs, gentle fingertips expertly finding the lingering melody after striking major chords within me.” 😍

These two are messyyyyyyyy but in the best way.

Our mans is big mad, and ya girl is big sad (to the point that I imagine it to be VERY triggering, so take care of your mental health friends!)

Roman is dealing with a huge betrayal and left to wonder if anything was real or just part of a scheme, so he’s dealing with the defeat of being used while Gwen comes to terms with the fact that she didn’t intend for any of it to be real because Roman was a means to an end but we caught feels.

Nico needs a novella - frfr

Literally sent a chat to the author inventing her full government name (JESSICA ELIZABETH JANINE MARIE WISECUP IV) because she hurt my feelings so gd bad.

I got mad, I laughed (seriously, some of these lines are fkn hilarious), I was devastated, and then my heart was mended in the end.

[Ju Lie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables.

Beautifully Brutal and Utterly Consuming

✨Short Review✨
Dark, twisted, and emotionally raw, "Thorns from the Fall" delivers everything a sequel should and more. Jess Wisecup plunges us back into the heartbreak, heat, and chaos, with a gripping dual POV, devastating consequences, and a well-earned HEA that satisfies on every level.

✨Long Review✨
If you loved book 1, you’ll definitely not be disappointed by this sequel. "Thorns from the Fall" picks up the story with the same gripping energy, rich world-building, and emotional depth that made book one so memorable.

One thing I really appreciated was the thoughtful inclusion of a short recap of book one. It made it so much easier to dive back in without feeling lost, especially if, like me, you didn’t read both books back-to-back.

I also loved how chapter one doesn’t start exactly where book 1 ended. Usually, sequels pick up a bit after the events of the previous book, but here, Jess Wisecup takes us back into the story, right into the thick of it. Since book one ended on a cliffhanger, this approach throws us straight back into the emotions and tension we were left with, making it so easy to jump right in and stay fully connected.

The story continues to unfold through a dual POV, following both Gwyn and Roman.

Here, Gwyn is dealing with the consequences of her vengeance, most notably, the emotional ones. She’s consumed by inner turmoil, caught in a downward spiral of guilt, intrusive thoughts, and self-destructive behaviors. At the same time, she must also face the real-world fallout of what her actions set in motion, even consequences she never intended. The darkness she carries is constant and suffocating, and watching her sink deeper is both heartbreaking and hauntingly compelling. Jess Wisecup doesn’t just show us Gwyn’s pain, she immerses us in it. We don’t just observe her spiral; we live it, page by page.

Meanwhile, Roman is reeling from the aftershocks of Gwyn’s betrayal and the brutal game she played. The revelation that his brother is still alive only deepens the storm he’s caught in. He’s torn between love, hate, and longing, desperately trying to reconcile the woman he still desires with the one who shattered his trust. Beneath his anger lies a deep well of guilt: for letting down his people, for not seeing the full truth sooner, and for still wanting someone he knows he shouldn't. His inner conflict is raw, and Jess Wisecup does a brilliant job peeling back his layers, showing us a man who’s trying to stay in control while everything around and inside him is breaking.

This book is dark, twisted, addictive, and hot. There’s pain, grief, rage, but also longing, passion, and the kind of chemistry that burns right through the page. It’s the kind of story that leaves you wet (and not just from crying). And yes, despite all the darkness, the chaos, and the emotional destruction, this one ends with a well-earned HEA that leaves you satisfied in every sense.

"Thorns from the Fall" weaves together action, emotional depth, and political tension beautifully. Jess Wisecup continues to deliver a powerful, character-driven narrative that keeps you hooked, and leaves you needing more.


#hausoffables_pr #ThornsfromtheFall

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

After killing Bjorn and taking over the Chicago vampire coven, Gwyn is more powerful and more dangerous than ever. Roman should hate her. She murdered his best friend and tore apart everything he thought he stood for. But instead of staying away, he finds himself pulled deeper into her orbit. And when his long-lost brother suddenly returns, things spiral into a storm of revenge, lust, grief, and impossible choices.

The push-pull between Gwyn and Roman is magnetic. One moment they're at each other’s throats, literally, the next it’s steamy make-out sessions in the shadows of their enemies. It’s enemies-to-lovers, grief to obsession, love-to-battle kind of energy and it works.

Jess Wisecup really leans into the dark in this dark paranormal romance. The trauma, the loyalty wars, the moral grayness it all hits hard. Plus, the vampire world feels rich and cutthroat, with political backstabbing and supernatural intrigue that keep the stakes high, pun intended. Overall it's a deliciously dramatic end to a duet full of heartbreak, bloodlust, and heat.

❗️What to expect!
🧛‍♂️Brutal vampire politics and shifting power dynamics
💔Unresolved grief and brother trauma
❤️‍🔥Tension-filled romance with a LOT of angst
🗡️Epic betrayals and gut-punch plot twists
👸Gwyn being a badass, ruthless queen
💫Roman falling apart and maybe falling in love too

⚡️Thank you Haus of Fables and Jess Wisecup for sharing this book with me!

[Savannah (chapters_of_mayhem) · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t know how to feel about this. It was good and I enjoyed it but it didn’t leave me as satisfied, confused and heart broken as book 1 did. The ending of book 1 had me absolutely dumbfounded and while I appreciate the growth in this one there was only one moment that had my heart in a vice.

Gwyn was an emotional wreck 90% of this one and I missed her smart mouth. When she was left without direction her character really faltered and I was wondering what the heck was happening with the sire vampire the entire time.

Roman was, well Roman. His banter is impeccable and I appreciated the comparison to Aragorn. I feel for him, he seems to lose everyone he’s ever held close to him.

Raise your hand if you can’t stand Sasha’s character… even Hale was temperamental in this one. I think the side characters really fell off in this with only Nico having the chance to shine.

Thank you to Haus of Fables for the eARC of this book. This is my honest opinion.

[Sierra | FictionalWanderluster · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the conclusion of The Hunting Vengeance duet and picked up right after that jaw-dropping ending of book one. This duet is a TRUE enemies to lovers, spicy vampire romance that is so unique with its characters, world building, and plot. It is also filled with lots darkness, toxicity, angst, and passion. While I got sucked into the first and devoured it, this one just didn't hold my interest as much. After the events of the first book, Gwyn's character seemed to flounder and seemed to just go through the motions instead of be the baddie that she is. I think I was just hoping for more badassery from her but also understand how her mental health played a huge part in this story. Roman was still the perfect grumpy Viking vampire from the first one but more vengeful.

Overall, this story wrapped up the duet nicely but ultimately left me wanting just a bit more. I'm hopeful for some spinoffs! Thank you Haus of Fables PR for the advanced copy! 🖤

[Annie (Houseofbooksandboardgames) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐

I absolutely devoured this book. After Feathers from the Sky I was so curious to see how we'd get to a HEA and I really enjoyed how it unfolded.

This was definitely a satisfying conclusion to Gwyn and Roman's story but I'd love more stories set in this world as I loved it.

Definitely check the trigger warnings before reading this one as it does get very dark but I'd highly recommend this duology.

Thanks to Haus of Fables PR and Jess Wisecup for the ARC!

[bookish1.sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Hause of Fables for this gifted ARC.

I was happy to be able to dive straight into book two right after that cliffhanger in book one! I really enjoyed this book! It has real enemies to lovers with a lot of action, some steamy scenes and some crazy plottwists!

#hausoffables_pr #ThornsfromtheFall

[Briony (briohnee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jess really threw her whole cabussy into finishing off this story and it was beautiful. It’s is ‘vampires’ meets ‘Mr & Mrs Smith’ meets ‘revenge! Vs revenge?’

So many heartbreakingly relatable moments tied up amongst hilarious dialogue. Like you are really using a dismembered limb as a weapon??? Hilarious.
The mental health rep was so beautiful and tragically done that it just made all my worst parts feel seen.

Thank you to @haus.of.fables_pr for this ARC!

[Jillsbooknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ✨

“We’re going to kill each other,” he says, catching his breath. “You die, I die. You know that right? I can’t live in a world where you exist.”

Thorns From the Fall is the second and final instalment in the adult dark paranormal romance series, the Hunting Vengeance Duet. After a brutal plan finally culminates, Gwyn and Roman find themselves on opposite sides again. Filled with regret, hatred, and betrayal they quickly find themselves tied together again as machinations continue as vengeance has not fully been reached yet. Gwyn needs Roman's help and Roman is unable to walk away. Can these two find common ground amidst the fallout or will the collateral damage take them both out?

Holy crap these two are TOXIC and I LOVE it.

Gwyn is a woman who is willing to see things even if it destroys her and watching her having to navigate the consequences of her actions really paints such a vivid picture of self destruction and hatred. I found exploring her journey of uncovering what this all means and whether she can truly finish this after everything really grips you.

Roman is our male who really got his world turned on his head. His love for Gwyn is undeniable but so, too, is his hatred and anger. Watching him grapple with those conflicting feelings and accepting them leads to some really powerful scenes. I also loved seeing his loyalty.

“She’s so fucking perfect. And I wish I didn’t think that but goddamn it, there’s no one else like her. I don’t think there ever will be.”

In terms of spice, I would say this book is around 3.5 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. We start seeing spice around the 20% mark as these characters have a pre-existing relationship. There are 4+ spicy scenes that focus on blood play, domination, and are often filled with angst to the extreme. These are two characters whose love is a toxic thing but they can't seem to turn away from each other which makes it HAWT. Expect explicit and super detailed.

The story itself starts off a bit slower as the characters pick up the pieces of their shattered worlds but then gets increasingly more chaotic and intense. The lore that pops up towards the end really surprised me and I loved getting those tidbits. This book holds nothing back when it comes to risk, loss, and chaos so be prepared for so much to happen in a short span of time. There is action, manipulation, but also moments of vulnerability and friendship that really highlights how much these characters are stumbling through everything. There are also discussions of mental health here that draw you in (check your triggers though!). I would say some things surprised because I didn't see the signs at all which tripped me up. I also wished I had more time with the romance of them together as we get a lot of them apart trying to figure things out. That said the ending DELIVERS the HEA I needed for our toxic sweethearts.

Overall, this really brought Gwyn and Roman home for me and I had so much fun diving into their chaos!

Thank you so much to Haus of Fables PR and the author for this arc!

[Daniela Tavares · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/6.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5.

Well... After book 1 I was really angry at Gwyn for what she did to Roman (he didn't deserve that) but I understood why she did what she did. Once she started, she couldn't stop plus it was a question of " Is Roman really on my side?" even though he showed it multiple times he was but who knows. I was like " I'm mad at Gwyn but i get it. There's a lot going on" but I wanted more from Gwyn than what i got with this book.
She needed to choose between self-destruction or salvation in a way but it was never a choice for her. She sabotaged herself at every corner and it was repetitive. I know she has depression but does that give you a pass to be that angry, self destructive and just rude? There are moments where someone needs a pass on those but not forever. I don't know, I feel like Gwyn didn't change a bit by the end of the book. I don't trust her to be by Roman's side for the rest of their lives because she was unreliable for their whole story. Even their hea wasn't certain because she was still debating herself on stuff but like he is your mate, you're really not maintaining distance because you know what so what's the big deal? Anyways in the end, She didn't change, I don't trust her and I questioned if Roman deserves a mate like her which i think in various ways he does but is it enough...
Maybe that was the point of the author to show what depression like hers does to people and if it was, she really did that and i appreciate it but after all of it I wanted an hea that felt certain and deserved.
So basically I'm questioning if I even like Gwyn overall. I like when I'm in her head but when Roman is presented in this book, she felt just so hateful and I don't get it. It made me question if she really loved him before everything imploded to begin with.

Roman is no saint by all means but at least he is in touch with emotions. He was the one who was betrayed big time so i get why he was the way he was with Gwyn. I also think he is a lost puppy after her even though Gwyn didn't really gave him a reason to. Roman in this book was always there either for sexy times or to stop her from doing something stupid. Having a mate should be more than that.
They were toxic with one another but the one who took it too far was Gwyn. I don't feel like she did enough to warrant Roman's forgiveness.
His "pet" name for her felt disgusting when translated. It's just not sweet loving name to call someone and honestly the explanation for it didn't help matters at all.

Also Remy? Hello? Are we serious? Why?! It seemed senseless plus why didn't we have at least one interaction with him and Gwyn? I did not like his ending at all. It wasn't even necessary.
Roman & Gwyn heritage was interesting enough.
There were lots and lost of sexy times which felt too much at times.

I originally gave this book 4 stars upon finishing it but now writing my review I can't give it that even though I was glued to my kindle reading this. Just to many unknowns when it comes to Gwyn and I wanted more vulnerability from her with Roman.

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Thorns from the Fall” is book two in Jess Wisecup's “Hunting Vengeance” duet. It is a dark and spicy paranormal romance between two vampires who are as spicy as they are toxic. This book contains a trigger warning page, which you should review, as it discusses topics that may be triggering, including unliving and ideation.

Gwyn has had her vengeance: Bjorn is dead, and the Chicago coven is under her command despite Agnarr’s release from his slumber. The one thing she doesn't have is the only thing she needs: Roman. Roman has spent a year believing Remy was dead and only learns the truth after Gwyn, the woman he loves, kills his father and takes his coven. Now, he only wants to find Remy and exact his vengeance. Will Roman be able to find Remy in time, or will the walls around Gwyn shrink until it's too late?

The story is compelling and captivating, but I recognize it’s not for everyone. The story was not as action-packed or mysterious as the first book, which may be a drawback. Continuing its dual-POV nature, the chapters were primarily spent in the main character’s minds while the world continues around them (especially in Gwyn’s chapters). The plot itself begins to pick up between 60-70% of the way through the story, which was surprising. I was even more surprised that so much lore and major events began to occur only after 85%, which didn’t leave a lot of time for me, as a reader, to contemplate the new information. I felt this also didn’t leave time for the characters to process it either.

Roman and Gwyn give “dark and spicy” a whole new meaning. At 🌶️🌶️🌶️, “Thorns from the Fall” is spicy, that is for sure. They engage in so many kinks and play that it would make a lot of experienced people blush. They were very…enthusiastic in their exploits, and I found myself doing the “head lean” from “S.I.T.C” a lot.

In terms of their relationship, they are one of the few relationships that I would pass on if I got to experience it. They are toxic af and they know it. They spent most of the book in states of anger or depression and took it out on each other before everything else happened. A therapist in the book says the same, and I appreciated that there was a consensus on that front. So prepare for a true dark, spicy, and toxic vampire romance that ends in a HEA 🖤

This story is not for the weak. It is a dark romance. There is love there, but it spends so much time being toxic before it blossoms. From my experience, the emotions the characters experienced were so well presented that they matched my previous thoughts almost exactly. It was profound. There was a lot for me to ponder throughout the story, both intrinsically and externally, in terms of plot. When I consider these points, as well as the compelling nature of the story, I would give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐.

Thank you for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables!

[Muna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this duet. Nothing like I’ve ever read before. It was bloody and vampy and smutty and full of vengeance. I loved both of the main characters and all the side characters. I just loved reading it. It was easy and fun and tbh pretty funny. One thing I didn’t love is that for the first and second book so much details are revealed right at the end. I wish at least for this one we coulda learnt some things a little earlier as I think that woulda helped the story. I also wished Gwyn had a little more of that energy she had in the last book. I felt like she started to spiral too quick.

The author starts the book by saying:

“I hope I don’t have to remind you all that Roman and Gwyn are two toxic motherfuckers. Their romance, their morality, and their story operate in shades of grey.”

My reply after just finishing the first book was no fucking shit. And after finishing the second I love their toxic relationship.

I want Novellas for Hale and Nico and Margot.
Ok spoiler time. I want a book on Sasha. Don’t love her but I feel going back to magic school with her questionable dad is worth exploring. I still don’t get why she abandoned her sister
Oh and the actual spoiler. I want to see how Roman handles his magic.

I also loved the depression and suicide rep in this book. As someone who is apparently passively suicidal I related a lot to Gwyn and her want to die. I also related to how no amount of pretty kind words from people can really change our brain chemistry or maybe I just need a guy as fucked up as Roman to make my fucked up seem ok. But anyways like me she continues to live. And Remy. Man oh man. For a brief second I said “why Remy” but then I took it back and my heart hurt coz I got it.

“Roman, you can’t fix us. Sometimes life is just too goddamn hard. She’ll do it one way or another eventually if she really wants to.”

Rest is peace Remy

But also fuck the author for letting him die right before finding Kayla was alive. Or maybe he heard and he decided she is better off with his brother and friends.

Fuck me when Gwyn said to Roman that he should just talk to Sasha and he said he’d only ever been a brother to one person and he is gone and so can’t be a brother to anyone else. Kill me now.

Anyways great book. Great duet. Gimme more

[MicaylaTheBookDragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final book in The Hunting Vengeance Duet so please be aware that this review will have spoilers for Book one, Feathers From the Sky.
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This book picks up immediately where book one ends. Gwyn has killed Bjorn and taken control of his entire coven. Roman escaped from the dungeons and past a Slumbering ancient vampire on the verge of waking up to rescue Gwyn, only to find the aftermath of Gwyn's bloody coup. Gwyn reveals that, in addition to having planned the takeover and keeping Roman's brother captive, she also plans on killing her father, the no longer Slumbering ancient vampire Agnarr.

As Roman grapples with this revelation and the fact that the woman he loves had planned everything from the beginning, including making him believe that his brother was dead, Agnarr escapes and disappears. Both Gwyn and Roman must now figure out how deal with each other in the aftermath of Gwyn's betrayal. Gwyn assumes control of the coven, but begins to flounder as the goals that kept her motivated for so long have mostly come to fruition and she no longer has such a strong driving force to motivate her. Roman's hands are tied by the fact that Gwyn is still keeping his brother captive and won't release him until all of her goals come to fruition.

Roman and Gwyn remain toxic hotties through this book that have a lot of shit to work through. Their chemistry and the reluctant pull that they have to each other is undeniable, though. They are both experiencing visceral emotions throughout this book and they are still very imperfect people. But that is why I love them both so much. Roman and Gwyn are everything. I adored this book and the ending they receive is truly a thing of beauty. Jess Wisecup is one of my all time favorite authors and her lyrical writing in this book is deeply emotional and made me feel seen as I related to Gwyn.

Thank you to @haus.of.fables_pr and @authorjesswisecup for the gifted eARC.

[Leigha Lennon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thorns from the Fall delivers a gritty, emotionally turbulent tale of love, vengeance, and the painful price of power. Jess Wisecup doesn’t pull punches in this dark paranormal romance, throwing readers headfirst into a storm of betrayal, bloodshed, and heartbreak.

Gwyn is a powerful, complicated protagonist—ruthless in her quest for justice but unraveling under the weight of her own choices. Her takeover of the Chicago coven and betrayal of Roman is brutal, not just in action but in emotional consequence. Her struggle with guilt, power, and the aftermath of vengeance is portrayed with a raw vulnerability that elevates her character beyond the typical “vengeful antiheroine” mold.

Roman, meanwhile, seethes with fury and grief in equal measure. His pain is palpable—his loyalty fractured, his heart still caught in Gwyn’s grip even as he plots her demise. The dual POV adds incredible depth, showcasing two characters who are enemies by circumstance but lovers by something deeper, more primal. Their connection simmers with intensity, toeing the line between hate and longing in a way that keeps the reader breathless.

The prose is lush and evocative, with poetic introspection laced through the grit of political scheming and vampire warfare. The romantic tension is deliciously angsty, and the emotional stakes are sky-high.

The only drawback—and the reason this doesn’t earn a full five stars—is that some of the world-building feels underdeveloped. While the emotional beats hit hard, the structure of the covens and the broader implications of Gwyn’s plan could have used more detail and clarity.

Still, Thorns from the Fall is a compelling tale of ruin and redemption, where love and hate are two sides of the same blade. It’s perfect for fans of morally gray characters, doomed romance, and sharp-tongued heroines who aren’t afraid to burn everything down—including themselves.

[Bibsbookcorner · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was so excited to read this book based on how the first book ended. The surprise twist on the end blew my mind and I was anxiously waiting to start this one. The beginning of the book was on track with the pacing and adrenaline of the first book, but then it took a dark turn.

I truly wanted to enjoy this book more, I knew based on reading the content warnings this book would heavily focus on mental health issues, however I didn’t suspect it’d be majority of the book. At the start of the book, Gwyn was still feisty and fiery, dominating in her plans for revenge. However, once she got what she wanted, she just went into a never ending downward spiral. I know depression and SI can strike and be very difficult to come out of. But to be the sole focus for most of this book, it became tiresome to read for me.

Roman’s storyline was the one I was more looking forward to, especially with his brother Remy. I felt his character never wavered and stuck true to his roots. I wish the author had also gone into more detail about the original vampire being awoken, but Agnarr wasn’t a main focus even though he seemed like a big deal at the end of the first book. The side characters that seemed prevalent in the first book, were of no significance in this one. I had hoped to hear more about Nico, especially after what he did for Hale and how he seemed like it wasn’t a big deal to him. I’d have liked a small snippet about Nico’s past as well, or at least a conversation about Roman going to Nico and having a bonding moment over what was happening (I don’t want to spoil certain parts of the book so I won’t say here).

Overall, was just an alright read for me. This book is very heavily focused on depression and SI. So please take caution prior to reading.

[Denise · Rating 3 out of 5]

Genre: PNR
Formats available: KU, ebook, pb & omnibus
Series info: This completes the duet

On the back of the mind blowing revelations at the end of book one, Thorns from the Fall picks up immediately. This series is *true* enemies to lovers and despite the secrets, and constant betrayals between the MCs, Gywn & Roman just can’t seem to keep their hands off one another.

The whole Vampire, hunters, witches and demons aspect was giving me Buffy, but make it dark 😈 I enjoyed the Vampire lore in this one and found it had a fresh take on certain themes.

The author did a great job on the mental health front. It wasn’t at the forefront of the series, but it still played an impact on the characters, in particular the FMCs decision making.

I appreciated the lengths the MCs would go to in order to keep their families/loved ones safe, truly one thing they had in common from the get go. Unfortunately, I felt the chemistry lacking in this one and didn���t have any strong affections towards the side characters… I just wasn’t invested in their stories or cared enough about their outcomes.

3.25 ⭐️ for me, I just wanted more and was left a little underwhelmed.

Thank you to Haus of Fables and the author for the gifted eARC x

The duet at a glance:
*Vampires & vampire hunters
*Enemies to lovers
*Mental health rep
*Forbidden love
*Forced proximity
*Secrets & betrayal
*Hate fking
*Blood play
*Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Erin Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨🔮🌞🌕🍄🌕🌞🔮✨

ARC REVIEW

Thorns from the fall - Jess Wisecup

4.5/5⭐️

📚📚📚
This one I ate up in just two sittings!! Truly didn’t know how much I needed a vampire romance again until digging into this. This one is a hard enemies to lovers with Gwyn and Roman. These two keep all the secrets and constantly crossing/pushing each other. They are toxic and all the flags but once they touched there was no stopping it. And truly that’s why I love books like this. This book completely played with my emotions and I was feeling it while reading but that’s the exact reactions I love getting out of me. Gwyn I felt for heavily in my heart with what she goes through. Depression is an awful thing to live with but I feel like the author did a great job of showing that. By the end I just knew I would need more by this author! Without giving too much away I recommend adding this one to your tbr.

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If you like to read:
- Vampire x Hunter
- Romance
- Enemies to lovers to ??
- Plus size female
- Sweetheart 🤬 to sweetheart 😍
- Depression rep
… You should definitely check this out

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Thank you so much for sending me a copy for an honest review in my own words. #giftedcopy

#books #booklover #smut #booknerd #bookfriend #bookish #booklovers #bookishcommunity #bookloversunite #instabook #bookporn #bookphotography #reviews #igbooks #ilovereading #smutty #bookaddiction #bookhoader #hotnsexy #fortheloveofbooks #bookrecs #yummy #givemeallthebooks #readingthepainaway #booktok #arc

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I absolutely adored Feathers From The Sky and I couldn't wait to get stuck into book 2.

We pick up exactly where book 1 ends and are instantly thrown into the chaos and destruction caused by that unbelievable twist.

This book had me on the edge of my seat from the get go, I couldn't put it down but felt nervous to carry on.

I'm not sure there are quite enough words to say how much I loved every second. The banter between Roman and Gywn was just outstanding, the heartbreak and betrayal between them, the yearning and hatred, it was all just epic.

The book deals with some pretty heavy themes and you do need to read your TW's just to make sure you're OK to read it. This book broke my heart in so many places, there were parts I just didn't see coming and they crushed me. @authorjesswisecup manages to lull you into comfort before ripping your heart out from what our characters have to go through.

There are so many bittersweet moments, but it was a beautiful ending to Roman and Gwyn's story and I'm so sad to say goodbye to them.

I can't recommend this series enough, it's beautifully written, exciting, fast-paced, with a hot as hell MMC and an FMC who is strong and fierce whilst also facing her own demons, what more could you want?

Thorns From The Fall is released on the 18th of June so you still have time to read book 1 🍎

[Jaime · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wooooo, girl, she nasty! Thorns from the Fall is book 2 in the Hunting Vengeance duet, and this girl is dark, toxic, and filthy.

Please heed the trigger warnings and take care of your mental health. Depression and suicidal ideation/suicide are heavy, consistent themes here and we get deep into the mental darkness.

The toxicity between Gwyn and Roman is soooo messy and several times I found myself thinking, “this thing between them would be SO good if it wasn’t SO unhealthy.” 😅 This is the dark and twisted cousin of the beloved romantasy fated mates. These two found each other to destroy each other and then punished each other for the love they found instead.

Lest this sound critical, rest assured that I reveled in it. Something deep in my chest opened up and consumed all of the darkness these characters doled out as if it had been left starving for centuries. Fear not, she has been well fed and slumbers once again.

I love the diverse representation of the feminine form. I love Roman’s “slutty little man bun” and the descriptions of his tattoos. I love Zuul. He deserves a side story and Nico deserves a spinoff. I have a lot of questions where Nico is concerned, and he owes me answers.

If you can handle the dark and dirty, this duet is for you. Enter at your own risk, and also… Enjoy. That is all.

Thanks so much to Haus of Fables for this gifted eARC.

[Allie Hearth · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Ma petite cafarde.”

Talk about “hate to love you.” Man oh man, were these two a walking disaster but I loved every minute of it. Perfectly imperfect characters.

I felt like a lot of heart was poured into this book with the mental health representation. I also enjoyed that our FMC is portrayed as a plus size girlie and Roman loves her for exactly who she is.

This was dark and spicy. Definitely had some saucy senses I personally have never experienced in a book before. I’m sure you will be able to guess.🤭

I would love to immerse myself back into this world at some point. Fingers crossed for a novella, it seemed like there might have been some unfinished business with a certain character.

I wasn’t even finished with this before I made sure to order a copy of Feathers from the Sky (book 1 in The Hunting Vengeance Duet) and preordering a physical copy of book 2! I’m looking forward to meeting Jess at BGC and hopefully getting these signed ❤️

Please read the tigger warnings before reading as this book does get very dark and might not be suitable for all readers.

I want to say thank you to Haus of Fables for the gifted eARC and to Jess for writing and sharing such an incredible story. I’m so grateful!

[Meaghan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thorns from the Fall brings the story of Gwyn and Roman to a close, and while there were parts I really appreciated—especially the mental health representation—I found myself having mixed feelings overall.

One thing I truly admired was how the author tackled depression through both Gwyn and Roman’s brother. Their struggles felt real and raw, and I appreciated seeing that kind of emotional depth on the page. However, some of the plot choices didn’t land as well for me. The pacing felt uneven—drawn out in the middle, and then suddenly everything happened all at once. It was like every possible twist was saved for the final chapters, and it left the ending feeling rushed.

A standout example for me was when Gwyn was taken, and Roman swooped in to save her almost instantly, followed by a quick vampire fight that didn’t have much buildup or impact. That whole sequence felt a bit too convenient. And Roman’s brother’s arc, while interesting, had a conclusion that came off a little random compared to how carefully other parts of the story had been built up.

That said, I enjoyed being back in this world and watching Gwyn’s growth. Fans of book one will appreciate the closure, even if some threads felt a bit tangled by the end.

[Athena · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was going to give this three stars because I was dragging myself through the first like 70% of the book but once again we're given an ending with twists so good it adds a whole star by itself. I might have been more forgiving if I'd read book one more recently, but it was over a year ago and it took a while to reorient myself and remember how destructive and toxic (but like, in a hot way) all these characters are.

Book one ends with a major betrayal which leads us into a Mr. & Mrs. Smith but make it vampires dynamic happening in book two. This takes quite some time to resolve but the hate banging makes up for that I suppose.

Without giving away too much, PLEASE read trigger warnings here, especially if suicide is a big one for you. This does happen on-page and it's pretty fucked up. Took me a bit by surprise if we are being honest and I almost chucked my kindle across the room and stopped reading right there.

This is meant to be a duet but there are a lot of loose ends left untied and allegedly there is a novella coming out this fall so it would appear we are not done with this world and these characters just yet. We're getting Petra and Asmodeus's story - a demon falling in love with their host body? Yes, please.

[Rebekah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an emotional rollercoaster that I did not anticipate. Our girl Gwyn is dark and twisty inside (how else would she have accomplished what she did in book 1??), and in this book we experience the true depth of that darkness. It’s a hopeless, suffocating depression, and it breaks my heart that Gwyn lives under the weight of it every single day. Be prepared to experience every heartbreaking moment when you pickup this book.

“There’s never been any possible outcome that didn’t end with Roman’s rage and my death at his hands.”

Roman, I both love and hate you in this book. Your stubbornness drives me insane, but your sexy man bun makes up for it.

Hale and Sasha, I did not see any of that coming, and you both have some explaining to do.

Nico, we need a coffee date asap because I have so many questions.

This is the perfect conclusion to the duet. Fast-paced, full of emotion, and surprisingly spicier than book 1. Jess, my one request is that we get a Petra novella. I need to know what goes on inside her head. 👀🙏

I recommend this duet for anyone who likes a dark and twisty romantasy with mental health themes.

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ (4/5)
Trigger warnings: suicide