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The Infernis Duology #2
Reckoning
The Infernis Duology's exciting conclusion.The fate of the world balances on the tip of a gilded knife.
With King Typhon desperate to retrieve his ward, Oralia returns to infiltrate Aethera, the golden kingdom she once called home. Betrayal lurks around every corner, forcing Oralia to place trust in her newfound powers, not only to destroy the god she once called father, but to protect Infernis, the shadowy kingdom she now serves as queen.
Meanwhile Renwick, the King of the Dead, prepares to attack Aethera should Oralia be discovered. He finds himself once more on the verge of being torn to pieces as he is caught between the duty he feels to his soul-bonded mate and to his kingdom.
Will Oralia find the strength to put him back together again without losing Infernis…or herself?
With King Typhon desperate to retrieve his ward, Oralia returns to infiltrate Aethera, the golden kingdom she once called home. Betrayal lurks around every corner, forcing Oralia to place trust in her newfound powers, not only to destroy the god she once called father, but to protect Infernis, the shadowy kingdom she now serves as queen.
Meanwhile Renwick, the King of the Dead, prepares to attack Aethera should Oralia be discovered. He finds himself once more on the verge of being torn to pieces as he is caught between the duty he feels to his soul-bonded mate and to his kingdom.
Will Oralia find the strength to put him back together again without losing Infernis…or herself?
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
172 people are currently reading
2531 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
May 9, 2025
Strap on and strap in. You're in for a wild ride! 🤩
All that begins must end.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ romantasy
✨ book 2 of the Infernis Duology
✨ gods and magic
✨ shadow daddy AND shadow mommy
✨ female rage
✨ "where is my wife/husband"
✨ touch him/her and 💀
✨ 2/5 spice 🌶️
✨ quest plot
✨ lots of action
✨ heavily inspired by Greek and Egyptian mythology
✨ found family
✨ dual POV
✨ HEA
My Thoughts:
Reckoning is an exhilarating, action-packed conclusion to the Infernis duology that was everything I could have hoped for and didn’t expect! Where Ruin was more emotional, romance-focused, and character-driven, Reckoning hits the ground running with a fast-paced plot, unexpected twists, and epic moments that had me completely hooked from start to finish.
Oralia shines in this book. She’s no longer afraid of herself or what she’s capable of. She’s a goddess who's ready to embrace her powers and is hellbent on revenge! We support women's rights and women's wrongs. lol 👏 But while she becomes even more powerful, she also grapples with control of herself and the situation she’s been put in. I liked that even though she’s a strong, powerful character, she still has some weaknesses and room to grow. It makes her more relatable.
Renwick continues to be a brooding, sexy king but finds himself in a position where he must put his full trust in Oralia. He’s always been someone who’s relied on his own strength and judgment, so learning to fully trust someone else, especially when it’s out of his control, is a big shift. And by putting his faith in Oralia, it deepens their bond and shows a new side to both of them.
Ren and Oralia’s romance takes more of a backseat in this book, but their connection still radiates through every chapter. Even when they’re apart, you can feel their bond. Their love really pushes them forward and helps them become who they’re meant to be. And don't worry, the eventual spice is very rewarding! 🔥
There are a few moments in this book that had me screaming "OH MY GOD. WHAT THE F*CK!". After that first one, I almost threw my phone across the room. 😂 I was honestly shook to my core! I wish I could go into details, but that would spoil it and ruin the fun. Trust me when I say, you will definitely be shocked multiple times throughout this book.
I really enjoyed learning about the world outside Infernis. Some within the realm, some beyond. It was exciting to explore new places and uncover more magic and mythology that make this world so unique. We're also introduced to many new gods and their lore. Zayne needs to be protected at ALL costs. 🥺 And Samarah… she could end me, and I’d say thank you. Honestly, she scares me, but I’m so into it. 🥵
If you’re craving a romantasy inspired by Egyptian and Greek mythology, with a swoony but established romance, a quest plot, a dynamic found family, and an unapologetically powerful heroine, Reckoning is the finale you’ve been waiting for!
Gillian, I’m just so incredibly proud of you. Watching this story come to life has been such a joy. The care you’ve put into every chapter shows. You’ve created something magical, fierce, and unforgettable, and I can’t wait to see where your writing takes you next. Love you, babe! 🫶
Thank you Gillian for trusting me as your alpha reader and for sending me an ARC copy! As always, all opinions are my own.
All that begins must end.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ romantasy
✨ book 2 of the Infernis Duology
✨ gods and magic
✨ shadow daddy AND shadow mommy
✨ female rage
✨ "where is my wife/husband"
✨ touch him/her and 💀
✨ 2/5 spice 🌶️
✨ quest plot
✨ lots of action
✨ heavily inspired by Greek and Egyptian mythology
✨ found family
✨ dual POV
✨ HEA
My Thoughts:
Reckoning is an exhilarating, action-packed conclusion to the Infernis duology that was everything I could have hoped for and didn’t expect! Where Ruin was more emotional, romance-focused, and character-driven, Reckoning hits the ground running with a fast-paced plot, unexpected twists, and epic moments that had me completely hooked from start to finish.
Oralia shines in this book. She’s no longer afraid of herself or what she’s capable of. She’s a goddess who's ready to embrace her powers and is hellbent on revenge! We support women's rights and women's wrongs. lol 👏 But while she becomes even more powerful, she also grapples with control of herself and the situation she’s been put in. I liked that even though she’s a strong, powerful character, she still has some weaknesses and room to grow. It makes her more relatable.
Renwick continues to be a brooding, sexy king but finds himself in a position where he must put his full trust in Oralia. He’s always been someone who’s relied on his own strength and judgment, so learning to fully trust someone else, especially when it’s out of his control, is a big shift. And by putting his faith in Oralia, it deepens their bond and shows a new side to both of them.
Ren and Oralia’s romance takes more of a backseat in this book, but their connection still radiates through every chapter. Even when they’re apart, you can feel their bond. Their love really pushes them forward and helps them become who they’re meant to be. And don't worry, the eventual spice is very rewarding! 🔥
There are a few moments in this book that had me screaming "OH MY GOD. WHAT THE F*CK!". After that first one, I almost threw my phone across the room. 😂 I was honestly shook to my core! I wish I could go into details, but that would spoil it and ruin the fun. Trust me when I say, you will definitely be shocked multiple times throughout this book.
I really enjoyed learning about the world outside Infernis. Some within the realm, some beyond. It was exciting to explore new places and uncover more magic and mythology that make this world so unique. We're also introduced to many new gods and their lore. Zayne needs to be protected at ALL costs. 🥺 And Samarah… she could end me, and I’d say thank you. Honestly, she scares me, but I’m so into it. 🥵
If you’re craving a romantasy inspired by Egyptian and Greek mythology, with a swoony but established romance, a quest plot, a dynamic found family, and an unapologetically powerful heroine, Reckoning is the finale you’ve been waiting for!
Gillian, I’m just so incredibly proud of you. Watching this story come to life has been such a joy. The care you’ve put into every chapter shows. You’ve created something magical, fierce, and unforgettable, and I can’t wait to see where your writing takes you next. Love you, babe! 🫶
Thank you Gillian for trusting me as your alpha reader and for sending me an ARC copy! As always, all opinions are my own.
May 2, 2025
This book is a ride you will never forget. I truly thought I knew where the author was leading us to, and I was dead wrong.
Oralia and Ren have been through so much. But there are still so many challenges ahead of them.
I felt the anguish in their journey but it was also very enlightening to the core of who they are. I thought it was all explored deeply and to devastating effect.
I will say though, that I can't deny, I wanted more of them together. That's not this story though, or where the author meant it to me. Book 1 was them falling in love and book 2 was, mostly Oralia, fighting for that love and the future she deserves.
So I respect the author for sticking with that, even if it may not please everyone.
3.5 Stars
2 on the spice scale
CW: Death, grief, and gore.
*Thank you to the Nerd Fam and the Author for an ARC of this title.*
Oralia and Ren have been through so much. But there are still so many challenges ahead of them.
I felt the anguish in their journey but it was also very enlightening to the core of who they are. I thought it was all explored deeply and to devastating effect.
I will say though, that I can't deny, I wanted more of them together. That's not this story though, or where the author meant it to me. Book 1 was them falling in love and book 2 was, mostly Oralia, fighting for that love and the future she deserves.
So I respect the author for sticking with that, even if it may not please everyone.
3.5 Stars
2 on the spice scale
CW: Death, grief, and gore.
*Thank you to the Nerd Fam and the Author for an ARC of this title.*
May 9, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
😮💨 ate and left no crumbs.
I am a diehard lover of all things Hades x Persephone and while this duology is a blend of several mythologies, that one was prominent throughout. Gillian West blew me away with this. WHAT A FREAKING LOVE STORY.
The writing in this gives such grief, longing, pain, and LOVE. Something unending and gut wrenching. It’s heavy in all the right ways.
Ren and Oralia’s soul bond made the spice SO sensual and consuming.
This was a slower pace than the first book, but it works, and makes sense. Living through loss and having so much courage to keep going was felt throughout. I loved the expansion of characters and each new face brought so much more depth to an already compelling story.
————————————————————————————————
✨ Preread ✨
Loved Oralia and Renwick in ‘Ruin’. And the writing was seriously so lush. Can’t wait for this! 🖤
😮💨 ate and left no crumbs.
I am a diehard lover of all things Hades x Persephone and while this duology is a blend of several mythologies, that one was prominent throughout. Gillian West blew me away with this. WHAT A FREAKING LOVE STORY.
The writing in this gives such grief, longing, pain, and LOVE. Something unending and gut wrenching. It’s heavy in all the right ways.
Ren and Oralia’s soul bond made the spice SO sensual and consuming.
This was a slower pace than the first book, but it works, and makes sense. Living through loss and having so much courage to keep going was felt throughout. I loved the expansion of characters and each new face brought so much more depth to an already compelling story.
————————————————————————————————
✨ Preread ✨
Loved Oralia and Renwick in ‘Ruin’. And the writing was seriously so lush. Can’t wait for this! 🖤
March 22, 2025
GILLIAN YOU QUEEN!! 👑
There is not one bad thing I could say to the conclusion to this duology. Absolutely STUNNING✨
The amount of passion you feel in your bones reading Ruin and Reckoning just hits every spot!!
The writing is just fantastic!!
I loved this so much!
Expect FEMININE RAGE!! Passion, action and redemption!!
I already miss them 🥹
…and without spoiling, prepare yourself for some jaw dropping moments 🤭🫀
“𝐼 𝓁𝒶𝓎 𝓂𝓎 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝒾𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝒽𝒶𝓃𝒹𝓈.” 🫠🖤
There is not one bad thing I could say to the conclusion to this duology. Absolutely STUNNING✨
The amount of passion you feel in your bones reading Ruin and Reckoning just hits every spot!!
The writing is just fantastic!!
I loved this so much!
Expect FEMININE RAGE!! Passion, action and redemption!!
I already miss them 🥹
…and without spoiling, prepare yourself for some jaw dropping moments 🤭🫀
“𝐼 𝓁𝒶𝓎 𝓂𝓎 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝒾𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊𝓇 𝒽𝒶𝓃𝒹𝓈.” 🫠🖤
May 9, 2025
I’m highly disappointed. I REALLY enjoyed Ruin, so I thought Reckoning would be a home run… No, no it was not. I had a few really big issues, and this will have detailed spoilers, so please do not proceed unless you want to be spoiled:
1. Her mate has been killed and dismembered. All she has left is his heart. She ate it… She ate his heart, but I read and reread that section MULTIPLE TIMES and no where could I figure out where she thought that would be a good idea. I was shocked at this part. Why?! Why was this needed?
2. She has the power to give life. In book one, she grows things from NOTHING. They talk about her ability to “give life” frequently. Why then, at no point in time, does she try to resurrect him using her own powers? Instead she goes on these boring mini-quests to track down the pieces of him when she could use the heart (had she not gotten peckish and eaten it) as a baseline and her powers and resurrect him that way.
3. In book one, her touch would kill any living thing and toward the end of book one it is mentioned that there is a theory where she might be able to control the deadly parts of her power. I thought that would be explored in book two, but no. She gains the ability to handle fire and she learns to control that (too quickly than makes sense, but that is a whole other thing) but she doesn’t get training to control her deadly touch or so I thought but at the end she hugs her brother which she could never do before. Where did that come from?!
4. Mercucio was the traitor. That was super obvious from book one, but when it is revealed that he is the traitor Typhon refers to him as “son” and Oralia internally considers, is that an endearment between them or are they related, but that is never clarified.
There were tons of plot holes in book two. If felt rushed. It feels like the author could have just made book one longer and wrapped things up more thoughtfully there or rewritten this all together. All in all I was extremely disappointed in this. I wanted a lot more, and now I’m hoping this doesn’t put me in a book slump.
1. Her mate has been killed and dismembered. All she has left is his heart. She ate it… She ate his heart, but I read and reread that section MULTIPLE TIMES and no where could I figure out where she thought that would be a good idea. I was shocked at this part. Why?! Why was this needed?
2. She has the power to give life. In book one, she grows things from NOTHING. They talk about her ability to “give life” frequently. Why then, at no point in time, does she try to resurrect him using her own powers? Instead she goes on these boring mini-quests to track down the pieces of him when she could use the heart (had she not gotten peckish and eaten it) as a baseline and her powers and resurrect him that way.
3. In book one, her touch would kill any living thing and toward the end of book one it is mentioned that there is a theory where she might be able to control the deadly parts of her power. I thought that would be explored in book two, but no. She gains the ability to handle fire and she learns to control that (too quickly than makes sense, but that is a whole other thing) but she doesn’t get training to control her deadly touch or so I thought but at the end she hugs her brother which she could never do before. Where did that come from?!
4. Mercucio was the traitor. That was super obvious from book one, but when it is revealed that he is the traitor Typhon refers to him as “son” and Oralia internally considers, is that an endearment between them or are they related, but that is never clarified.
There were tons of plot holes in book two. If felt rushed. It feels like the author could have just made book one longer and wrapped things up more thoughtfully there or rewritten this all together. All in all I was extremely disappointed in this. I wanted a lot more, and now I’m hoping this doesn’t put me in a book slump.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2025
Honestly, I've never been so disappointed in a book. I loved Ruin and this was just a mess. The book felt so rushed, yet at the same time, nothing really happened. The potential was there and the author just threw it away.
Oralia, the FMC, was the only character who got developed. Ren, the MMC, wasn't present for the majority of the book. There were lots of side characters who I was dying to know more about. Unfortunately, not one of them got developed... You didn't get to see much of Ren and Oralia's story after the battle.
Reckoning was also significantly shorter than the first book.... which didn't do it any favors. I feel it would have been beneficial to have the book be longer so each character could get the proper attention they need.
In short, Reckoning felt rushed and was a complete mess. It read like the author was in a hurry to get the story out, instead of taking the proper time to write something worthwhile.
I'm saddened because I really enjoyed Ruin...
Oralia, the FMC, was the only character who got developed. Ren, the MMC, wasn't present for the majority of the book. There were lots of side characters who I was dying to know more about. Unfortunately, not one of them got developed... You didn't get to see much of Ren and Oralia's story after the battle.
Reckoning was also significantly shorter than the first book.... which didn't do it any favors. I feel it would have been beneficial to have the book be longer so each character could get the proper attention they need.
In short, Reckoning felt rushed and was a complete mess. It read like the author was in a hurry to get the story out, instead of taking the proper time to write something worthwhile.
I'm saddened because I really enjoyed Ruin...
October 5, 2025
★★★¾
high fantasy เว่อๆๆๆ
เรื่องนี้พระเอก shadow daddy ของอิฉันบทไม่เด่นเรย โดนตัวร้ายเล่นงานหนักมากจนกายหยาบไม่สามารถใช้การได้5555 แต่ก็ยังไม่ตายอะนะเพราะเปน immortal แค่รอเวลาฟื้นแป๊ป
ส่วนนางเอกพอไม่มีพระเอกคอยดูแลแล้วคือ character growth สิบสิบสิบ เล่มหนึ่งว่าก้าวกระโดดแล้วอันนี้ยิ่งกว่า
ใดๆ นี่ว่าพล็อตมันแอบช้ำ และ execute ได้ไม่สุด ครึ่งหลังเหมือนจะมีฟีล avengers assemble เหล่าเทพเหล่าไรรวมตัว แต่เอ่า underwhelming wa สุดท้ายก้ลุยกันอยู่ไม่กี่คนนิ ใช้ตัวละครไม่คุ้ม5555
spice: 2.5/5
high fantasy เว่อๆๆๆ
เรื่องนี้พระเอก shadow daddy ของอิฉันบทไม่เด่นเรย โดนตัวร้ายเล่นงานหนักมากจนกายหยาบไม่สามารถใช้การได้5555 แต่ก็ยังไม่ตายอะนะเพราะเปน immortal แค่รอเวลาฟื้นแป๊ป
ส่วนนางเอกพอไม่มีพระเอกคอยดูแลแล้วคือ character growth สิบสิบสิบ เล่มหนึ่งว่าก้าวกระโดดแล้วอันนี้ยิ่งกว่า
ใดๆ นี่ว่าพล็อตมันแอบช้ำ และ execute ได้ไม่สุด ครึ่งหลังเหมือนจะมีฟีล avengers assemble เหล่าเทพเหล่าไรรวมตัว แต่เอ่า underwhelming wa สุดท้ายก้ลุยกันอยู่ไม่กี่คนนิ ใช้ตัวละครไม่คุ้ม5555
spice: 2.5/5
October 6, 2025
3.5⭐️ the concept for this one was good, but the execution could’ve been better. The beginning felt slow but then the ending and battle felt rushed. Still love the first book but this one was just alright imo
March 28, 2025
Did I finish this book or did it finish me?
A massive thank you to The Nerd Fam and Gillian Eliza West for the opportunity to read this as an eARC before its release. Reckoning was one of my most anticipated reads for 2025 and so I think it’s no surprise I jumped straight in.
Reminder if you haven’t read Ruin, this review is not for you right now because the content (despite technically being spoiler free) will still inherently be a spoiler for you.
On to the review:
I wasn’t entirely sure where we’d be going in this book, but I knew it was gonna hurt either way. And boy oh boy, did the author not just stab a 🔪 right through my chest 7 chapters in 🤡
Heartbreak aside, it was so much fun to see Oralia really come into her new role as Queen of the Dead, as well as establishing her new control over her powers. I did not foresee the journey Ren would be taking and man, I felt so bad for the poor guy because he just really has gone through it in his endless life. Despite all this, they stayed true to each other and watching their bond further solidify was just 🥹
The ending was what we needed to see happen, and a part of me is hopeful we’ll see more of this lot in the future.
I’ll forever be endlessly grateful for deciding to sign up for an eARC of Ruin last year, and subsequently stumbling into one of my new favourite fantasy series of all times.
If you’re a lover of Hades and Persephone retellings with a mix of other fan favourites, this series is the one for you.
A massive thank you to The Nerd Fam and Gillian Eliza West for the opportunity to read this as an eARC before its release. Reckoning was one of my most anticipated reads for 2025 and so I think it’s no surprise I jumped straight in.
Reminder if you haven’t read Ruin, this review is not for you right now because the content (despite technically being spoiler free) will still inherently be a spoiler for you.
On to the review:
I wasn’t entirely sure where we’d be going in this book, but I knew it was gonna hurt either way. And boy oh boy, did the author not just stab a 🔪 right through my chest 7 chapters in 🤡
Heartbreak aside, it was so much fun to see Oralia really come into her new role as Queen of the Dead, as well as establishing her new control over her powers. I did not foresee the journey Ren would be taking and man, I felt so bad for the poor guy because he just really has gone through it in his endless life. Despite all this, they stayed true to each other and watching their bond further solidify was just 🥹
The ending was what we needed to see happen, and a part of me is hopeful we’ll see more of this lot in the future.
I’ll forever be endlessly grateful for deciding to sign up for an eARC of Ruin last year, and subsequently stumbling into one of my new favourite fantasy series of all times.
If you’re a lover of Hades and Persephone retellings with a mix of other fan favourites, this series is the one for you.
May 15, 2025
The perfect end to a Duology, the Infernis
Duology is so unique and its needs to be talked about more. This isn’t a copy and paste romantasy, there’s plot, world building, great character development and of course romance.
In Reckoning we find out just how far Oralia my favorite shadow mommy will go to get her man back and will she destroy the God who she once called father?I just love how Oralia’s character development was done she really comes into her own in this final book. And Ren 😭😭😭 he will do anything to protect Oralia and keep her safe. Honestly he is one of my favorite MMCs. This to me is a perfect hades and personphone retelling. I just love the authors writing! it’s so beautiful I feel like I went through all the emotions with both Oralia and Ren.
Thank you so much Gillian West for the arc
Duology is so unique and its needs to be talked about more. This isn’t a copy and paste romantasy, there’s plot, world building, great character development and of course romance.
In Reckoning we find out just how far Oralia my favorite shadow mommy will go to get her man back and will she destroy the God who she once called father?I just love how Oralia’s character development was done she really comes into her own in this final book. And Ren 😭😭😭 he will do anything to protect Oralia and keep her safe. Honestly he is one of my favorite MMCs. This to me is a perfect hades and personphone retelling. I just love the authors writing! it’s so beautiful I feel like I went through all the emotions with both Oralia and Ren.
Thank you so much Gillian West for the arc
March 31, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the conclusion to this amazing duology! I recently did a re-read of Ruin and was more than ready to watch Oralia come into her power. And did she! I love the way Gillian writes and will read anything she comes out with.
June 12, 2025
3.5 star, 1.5 spice
Thank you to Gillian Eliza West and to the Nerd Fam for the ARC copy!
“Weakness is believing that one must be someone other than themselves in order to be strong.”
This one just throws you right back into it!
The action scenes were engaging, and I thought the way the author explored the bond between the main characters, connected through this dreamlike, in-between state, was really creative. The emotional stakes worked for me, and the moments of danger felt real and well-written. Love some mortal-peril, and the handful of spice scenes were great.
“Your body is the only place that has ever felt like home.”
This book was even shorter than the first, yet we were still being introduced to new characters and world lore at 80%. There were so many characters thrown in, but not enough time to get to know any of them. I was also hoping we would dig a little deeper into the inner circle in book two but we just kind of... moved on? Reckoning had more of a “heroine on a quest around the world” vibe, that removed us from those characters we met in Ruin.
I think this story needed to either be a longer duology or a full trilogy. There was a lot of potential, but too much was crammed in, and not enough was fleshed out. I never fully understood the rules of the world.
I did love the inclusion of the stuff with his mom, and honestly everything in his chapters were really interesting to me. I am excited to still read whatever else Gillian Eliza comes up with next.
Also, I’ll own up to the fact that I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump, it took me a while to pick this up, and a while to finish it, but that is more of a me issue.
Thank you to Gillian Eliza West and to the Nerd Fam for the ARC copy!
“Weakness is believing that one must be someone other than themselves in order to be strong.”
This one just throws you right back into it!
The action scenes were engaging, and I thought the way the author explored the bond between the main characters, connected through this dreamlike, in-between state, was really creative. The emotional stakes worked for me, and the moments of danger felt real and well-written. Love some mortal-peril, and the handful of spice scenes were great.
“Your body is the only place that has ever felt like home.”
This book was even shorter than the first, yet we were still being introduced to new characters and world lore at 80%. There were so many characters thrown in, but not enough time to get to know any of them. I was also hoping we would dig a little deeper into the inner circle in book two but we just kind of... moved on? Reckoning had more of a “heroine on a quest around the world” vibe, that removed us from those characters we met in Ruin.
I think this story needed to either be a longer duology or a full trilogy. There was a lot of potential, but too much was crammed in, and not enough was fleshed out. I never fully understood the rules of the world.
I did love the inclusion of the stuff with his mom, and honestly everything in his chapters were really interesting to me. I am excited to still read whatever else Gillian Eliza comes up with next.
Also, I’ll own up to the fact that I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump, it took me a while to pick this up, and a while to finish it, but that is more of a me issue.
August 5, 2025
Thank you The Nerd Fam for gifting me this e-ARC!
Blurb: When Oralia returns to the golden kingdom of Aethera to confront the god she once called father, betrayal threatens her at every turn. As Queen of the shadowy Infernis, she must harness her powers to protect her new home—while her soul-bonded mate, Renwick, King of the Dead, stands ready to wage war if she’s exposed. Torn between love, duty, and destiny, can they survive without losing each other—or themselves?
Tropes:
😈 Female rage
🔥 Egyptian mythology-inspired
😈 “Where is my wife?”
🔥 Non-problematic horcrux hunt
😈 Shadow mommy
🔥 Conclusion of duology
😈 Dual POV
🔥Gods and monsters
😈 LGBTQIA+ rep (supporting characters)
My Thoughts
I have mixed feelings about this book!!
I was really looking forward to it, as “Ruin” (book 1 in the duology) ended up being really great 😍😍 The pining and tension were really on point!
As always, Gillian’s writing style was so lush and emotive in “Reckoning”— which works particularly well with the spicy scenes 😍 She writes the intimate scenes very well.
However, I felt like the plot was a bit of a let-down. The first 20% and the last 15% were the most engaging—but, for everything in between, I found myself wanting to skip ahead instead of savouring every page.
The duology is definitely worth a read— it’s just that I guess “Ruin” left off on such an intense note that I thought that intensity would be more steadily maintained throughout the sequel than it actually was.
If you’re looking for something moody, atmospheric and spicy, then this series is still definitely worth picking up 🫶
⭐️ 3.9/5
🌶️ 3/5
Blurb: When Oralia returns to the golden kingdom of Aethera to confront the god she once called father, betrayal threatens her at every turn. As Queen of the shadowy Infernis, she must harness her powers to protect her new home—while her soul-bonded mate, Renwick, King of the Dead, stands ready to wage war if she’s exposed. Torn between love, duty, and destiny, can they survive without losing each other—or themselves?
Tropes:
😈 Female rage
🔥 Egyptian mythology-inspired
😈 “Where is my wife?”
🔥 Non-problematic horcrux hunt
😈 Shadow mommy
🔥 Conclusion of duology
😈 Dual POV
🔥Gods and monsters
😈 LGBTQIA+ rep (supporting characters)
My Thoughts
I have mixed feelings about this book!!
I was really looking forward to it, as “Ruin” (book 1 in the duology) ended up being really great 😍😍 The pining and tension were really on point!
As always, Gillian’s writing style was so lush and emotive in “Reckoning”— which works particularly well with the spicy scenes 😍 She writes the intimate scenes very well.
However, I felt like the plot was a bit of a let-down. The first 20% and the last 15% were the most engaging—but, for everything in between, I found myself wanting to skip ahead instead of savouring every page.
The duology is definitely worth a read— it’s just that I guess “Ruin” left off on such an intense note that I thought that intensity would be more steadily maintained throughout the sequel than it actually was.
If you’re looking for something moody, atmospheric and spicy, then this series is still definitely worth picking up 🫶
⭐️ 3.9/5
🌶️ 3/5
September 6, 2025
oh boy. I didn't write a super long review for book one because I wanted to follow this journey as soon as possible but this one will be longer since I have the time!
spoilers.
Okay. Absolutely no shade to this author but after a promising start I did not expect to have this book. Going on quests to get his body back and we don't have them really back together until the final battle scene at 96 percent of the book? That for me made this book not my favorite. as a second book plot sure if you are going to have book three which we did not have. We added other cities and realms, added in the random gods we didn't ever hear about, and the main character was just a sad shell of herself trying to survive a whole book. Again, if this was book 2 of three I would get it and be supportive but we don't get much closer or much to hold onto through this one and it let me down.
Also, was anyone else thinking how this chick did not get pregnant? it was such a focus for this author in book one and two that the couple wasn't using protection and hooking up constantly and somehow we don't end with a little godling on the way?
I also just think that too much was added to not complete some conversations and storylines. We added 10ish characters in book two and besides a fleeting mention or a scene they don't really come into play much and I would've wanted to see it play out.
overall I really did like book one though I had some critiques and was excited for book two. Which I had to force myself from skimming the quests to find body parts, and just wanted that over.
spoilers.
Okay. Absolutely no shade to this author but after a promising start I did not expect to have this book. Going on quests to get his body back and we don't have them really back together until the final battle scene at 96 percent of the book? That for me made this book not my favorite. as a second book plot sure if you are going to have book three which we did not have. We added other cities and realms, added in the random gods we didn't ever hear about, and the main character was just a sad shell of herself trying to survive a whole book. Again, if this was book 2 of three I would get it and be supportive but we don't get much closer or much to hold onto through this one and it let me down.
Also, was anyone else thinking how this chick did not get pregnant? it was such a focus for this author in book one and two that the couple wasn't using protection and hooking up constantly and somehow we don't end with a little godling on the way?
I also just think that too much was added to not complete some conversations and storylines. We added 10ish characters in book two and besides a fleeting mention or a scene they don't really come into play much and I would've wanted to see it play out.
overall I really did like book one though I had some critiques and was excited for book two. Which I had to force myself from skimming the quests to find body parts, and just wanted that over.
June 6, 2025
3.5⭐️
I'm so disappointed! I loved the first book of this duology and had such high hopes for this one...
unfortunately, it fell flat for me.
It started out well, and i was thinking ooo okay bit of a court of wings and ruin vibe here with Oralia in enemy territory pretending to be back on their side.. then bam! All goes to hell.. possibility of a really cool plot point gone.
We then spend the next 60% of the book with Oralia searching for pieces of Ren on 6 individual trips and too many of oralias repetitive inner monologues.
This section of the book was just stretched out way too long... the only time our MCs interact is in her dreams for minimal moments.
thankfully, i did enjoy the last 30%... we got to meet more of the timeless gods, although i was hoping they played a bigger role in the end. Then, finally, the battle and defeat of typhon, which was enjoyable but too rushed. Our MCs finally being reunited was also rushed and just felt like it didn't matter in the end? even though that's what the whole book was about..
So, unfortunately, it's a bit of a disappointing end.. and i honestly think it could have just been 1 longer book? would have been a lot better!
I'm so disappointed! I loved the first book of this duology and had such high hopes for this one...
unfortunately, it fell flat for me.
It started out well, and i was thinking ooo okay bit of a court of wings and ruin vibe here with Oralia in enemy territory pretending to be back on their side.. then bam! All goes to hell.. possibility of a really cool plot point gone.
We then spend the next 60% of the book with Oralia searching for pieces of Ren on 6 individual trips and too many of oralias repetitive inner monologues.
This section of the book was just stretched out way too long... the only time our MCs interact is in her dreams for minimal moments.
thankfully, i did enjoy the last 30%... we got to meet more of the timeless gods, although i was hoping they played a bigger role in the end. Then, finally, the battle and defeat of typhon, which was enjoyable but too rushed. Our MCs finally being reunited was also rushed and just felt like it didn't matter in the end? even though that's what the whole book was about..
So, unfortunately, it's a bit of a disappointing end.. and i honestly think it could have just been 1 longer book? would have been a lot better!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶 🌶
I absolutely devoured this book and now I’m sitting here wondering how I’m supposed to carry on with my life. This was the perfect conclusion to the Infernis duology. Gillian did such an amazing job tying everything together and ugh I just had the best time reading. The romance? Swoon-worthy. Oralia’s character growth? Chef’s kiss. The lore building? So immersive, I feel like I could map out the entire world. And that incredible final conflict leading to that 🥵 ending?? Let’s just say I’m still emotionally recovering.
"Where is my wife?" Renwick can GET IT.
If I had one tiny gripe, it’s that I selfishly wanted more. I would have happily read another 100 pages to see some of the plot points and relationships simmer a little longer. But honestly, that’s just a testament to how much I loved it—I didn’t want it to end.
If you’re into romance-forward fantasy with high stakes, slow-burn tension, and a heroine who absolutely comes into her own, this one is a must-read.
🌶 🌶
I absolutely devoured this book and now I’m sitting here wondering how I’m supposed to carry on with my life. This was the perfect conclusion to the Infernis duology. Gillian did such an amazing job tying everything together and ugh I just had the best time reading. The romance? Swoon-worthy. Oralia’s character growth? Chef’s kiss. The lore building? So immersive, I feel like I could map out the entire world. And that incredible final conflict leading to that 🥵 ending?? Let’s just say I’m still emotionally recovering.
"Where is my wife?" Renwick can GET IT.
If I had one tiny gripe, it’s that I selfishly wanted more. I would have happily read another 100 pages to see some of the plot points and relationships simmer a little longer. But honestly, that’s just a testament to how much I loved it—I didn’t want it to end.
If you’re into romance-forward fantasy with high stakes, slow-burn tension, and a heroine who absolutely comes into her own, this one is a must-read.
April 15, 2025
5/5 ⭐️
1.5 / 5 🌶
Ruin was one of my favorite reads of 2024, and I have been highly anticipating Reckoning in 2025! This book delivers!
I went into this blind, having no idea what the premise of the book was. Oralia returns to Aethera, but Typhon is no fool. What follows is battle, gore, loss, love, hope, betrayal, and forgiveness.
The found family trope continues from Book 1, along with a dangerous quest, dreamwalking, and heartbreaking betrayal. I very much recommend the Infernis Duology, especially if you love Hades x Persephone stories!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the gifted eARC.
1.5 / 5 🌶
Ruin was one of my favorite reads of 2024, and I have been highly anticipating Reckoning in 2025! This book delivers!
I went into this blind, having no idea what the premise of the book was. Oralia returns to Aethera, but Typhon is no fool. What follows is battle, gore, loss, love, hope, betrayal, and forgiveness.
The found family trope continues from Book 1, along with a dangerous quest, dreamwalking, and heartbreaking betrayal. I very much recommend the Infernis Duology, especially if you love Hades x Persephone stories!
Thank you to The Nerd Fam and the author for the gifted eARC.
June 10, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I really wanted to love this more than I did. The writing was still solid, and the emotions were all there.. But I struggled with the fact that Ren was basically not around for most of the book. I get that it was kind of the point … that whole journey, the growth, the grief, the magic, etc. But personally, I just wanted them to be together. So much of it felt like reading two separate stories and while I totally respect the direction the author went in … it wasn’t quite what I expected or hoped for.
That said, there were some twists that got me, and I’d probably reread the whole duology one day with fresh eyes now that I know what I’m getting into.
I really wanted to love this more than I did. The writing was still solid, and the emotions were all there.. But I struggled with the fact that Ren was basically not around for most of the book. I get that it was kind of the point … that whole journey, the growth, the grief, the magic, etc. But personally, I just wanted them to be together. So much of it felt like reading two separate stories and while I totally respect the direction the author went in … it wasn’t quite what I expected or hoped for.
That said, there were some twists that got me, and I’d probably reread the whole duology one day with fresh eyes now that I know what I’m getting into.
April 13, 2025
Thank you for the gifted ARC! I adored Reckoning, the rare sequel that was even better than the first book!!! This duology has my heart in its hand (iykyk 🌚) and I was cheering, crying, and awwwing by the end. Gillian is a forever auto-buy author for me!
June 11, 2025
Didn’t love it as much as the first book. It felt very rushed at the end too
June 22, 2025
‘Weakness is believing that one must be someone other than themselves in order to be strong’
Oralia & Ren forever 👏🏽❤️
Oralia & Ren forever 👏🏽❤️
April 24, 2025
Absolutely incredible ending! I had chills at the very end and maybe even a few tears. If you love feminine rage and a good revenge plot, you'll love this conclusion to the Infernis Duology.
Oralia really came into herself and had incredible character growth. I really enjoyed her in this one. The love story was perfection, but the real standout for me was the incredible journey Oralia has to go through in order to get back to Ren.
From start to finish, this was an absolutely amazing duology, and I highly recommend it for all my fellow dark romantasy lovers!
- tropes -
feminine rage
found family
revenge plot
epic journey
"Where's my wife?"
shadow mommy (& shadow daddy)
Oralia really came into herself and had incredible character growth. I really enjoyed her in this one. The love story was perfection, but the real standout for me was the incredible journey Oralia has to go through in order to get back to Ren.
From start to finish, this was an absolutely amazing duology, and I highly recommend it for all my fellow dark romantasy lovers!
- tropes -
feminine rage
found family
revenge plot
epic journey
"Where's my wife?"
shadow mommy (& shadow daddy)
March 19, 2025
I have no words! This book took me through all of my emotions. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time! I loved everything about this!
Thank you Gillian Eliza West for trusting me with this ARC 🖤
And if you have not read Ruin yet you must!
Thank you Gillian Eliza West for trusting me with this ARC 🖤
And if you have not read Ruin yet you must!
March 17, 2025
I think I died after reading the arc for Reckoning.
Give me some time & you will get all the Details. BUT for now - Gillian you’re a queen.
Loved every heartbreaking moment & doesn’t want to say goodbye to Oralia & Ren 😭🥹
Give me some time & you will get all the Details. BUT for now - Gillian you’re a queen.
Loved every heartbreaking moment & doesn’t want to say goodbye to Oralia & Ren 😭🥹
July 28, 2025
Overall I did enjoy this series and the spin on Greek mythology. Unfortunately I do think the second book & overall ending fell short compared to the plot lines and character development of book 1. Still an enjoyable read but I do wish there was a more complex plot line.
April 29, 2025
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy of Reckoning, and OMG.... my heart is broken that I finished it and have to leave Infernis.
I was a big fan of Gillian Eliza West when she was writing fanfic on ao3. I read Ruin, book one of the Infernis duology, as soon as it came out. I love the mythology references in both Ruin and Reckoning.
Ok.... some slight but not super spoilery spoilers...
"Where is my wife?" kicking and screaming for this moment from our boy Renwick!
"It is you I believe in eshara. You are who I light a candle to, as humans do for the gods they worship. You are who I may offerings before." OMG, drooling!!!
Anyway, I loved Reckoning so much. Ren and Oralia's stories were so touching, not only their relationship but their own growth as well.
5/5 hands down.
I was a big fan of Gillian Eliza West when she was writing fanfic on ao3. I read Ruin, book one of the Infernis duology, as soon as it came out. I love the mythology references in both Ruin and Reckoning.
Ok.... some slight but not super spoilery spoilers...
"Where is my wife?" kicking and screaming for this moment from our boy Renwick!
"It is you I believe in eshara. You are who I light a candle to, as humans do for the gods they worship. You are who I may offerings before." OMG, drooling!!!
Anyway, I loved Reckoning so much. Ren and Oralia's stories were so touching, not only their relationship but their own growth as well.
5/5 hands down.
April 30, 2025
Miss Gillian , what did you put in this book.... I would give it 6 stars if I could..
if any of you are looking for a sign to read this, take this as one..
The world building, the progression of the story, the eternal love between the leads and even the villian .... just absolute perfection..
The magic and romance in this duology are next level ❣️
New autobuy author for me fr ..
if any of you are looking for a sign to read this, take this as one..
The world building, the progression of the story, the eternal love between the leads and even the villian .... just absolute perfection..
The magic and romance in this duology are next level ❣️
New autobuy author for me fr ..
May 1, 2025
I cannot say enough about this incredible duology! Ruin was an emotional rollercoaster full of raw intensity, while Reckoning amped up the action without losing the powerful bond between Oralia and Renwick.
Oralia is an absolute badass in this book — she shines in every chapter, and it’s genuinely empowering to read everything she endures and overcomes.
While we all loved Renwick taking control in Ruin, in Reckoning he places his full trust in Oralia — and it’s such a beautiful shift to witness.
There’s a ton of travel in this book, and I loved exploring the different places and meeting the other Gods — it made the world feel so rich and alive.
There are so many surprises, but no spoilers here — where’s the fun in that?
Huge thanks to Gillian for trusting me with this ARC — I can’t wait to read whatever you write next!
5 stars and all the love!
Oralia is an absolute badass in this book — she shines in every chapter, and it’s genuinely empowering to read everything she endures and overcomes.
While we all loved Renwick taking control in Ruin, in Reckoning he places his full trust in Oralia — and it’s such a beautiful shift to witness.
There’s a ton of travel in this book, and I loved exploring the different places and meeting the other Gods — it made the world feel so rich and alive.
There are so many surprises, but no spoilers here — where’s the fun in that?
Huge thanks to Gillian for trusting me with this ARC — I can’t wait to read whatever you write next!
5 stars and all the love!
April 27, 2025
I cannot wait until shadow mommy Oralia is released to the world!!
Reckoning by @gillianeliza
5 Stars!!!
Release date: April 29, 2025
When this arc landed in my kindle I was frothing at the mouth READY to jump back into this world and I wasn’t disappointed!! Reviewing the second book in a duology is always so hard because I don’t want to give away too much of what happens in book one. But, honestly, what are you doing if you haven’t read the first book already??
Reckoning follows Oralia’s growth as the queen of the dead and Aethera. As King Typhon continues her attack against her home, Oralia pushes herself - proving she has NOTHING holding back.
I will always shout from the roof top that I love a good character development story. Oralia in the second half of this duology feels like a totally different character in a good way!! She was already strong in book one - but watching her get grow into her power was amazing to see. She was able to push all her doubts from book one and hone into who she really was.
AND RENWICK!! Nothing made me happier than their scenes together no how stressful it was to read. I cherished every time moment they had with one another - you could just feel how much Renwick appreciated her as her queen.
I can’t believe the end of this duology is here, but I also can’t wait for everyone else to enjoy it as well!!!
Thank you so so so much to Gillian for writing such a lovely story, but also for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. It’s been such an honor to be apart of your street team and have the opportunity to share this story with everyone!!
Reckoning by @gillianeliza
5 Stars!!!
Release date: April 29, 2025
When this arc landed in my kindle I was frothing at the mouth READY to jump back into this world and I wasn’t disappointed!! Reviewing the second book in a duology is always so hard because I don’t want to give away too much of what happens in book one. But, honestly, what are you doing if you haven’t read the first book already??
Reckoning follows Oralia’s growth as the queen of the dead and Aethera. As King Typhon continues her attack against her home, Oralia pushes herself - proving she has NOTHING holding back.
I will always shout from the roof top that I love a good character development story. Oralia in the second half of this duology feels like a totally different character in a good way!! She was already strong in book one - but watching her get grow into her power was amazing to see. She was able to push all her doubts from book one and hone into who she really was.
AND RENWICK!! Nothing made me happier than their scenes together no how stressful it was to read. I cherished every time moment they had with one another - you could just feel how much Renwick appreciated her as her queen.
I can’t believe the end of this duology is here, but I also can’t wait for everyone else to enjoy it as well!!!
Thank you so so so much to Gillian for writing such a lovely story, but also for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. It’s been such an honor to be apart of your street team and have the opportunity to share this story with everyone!!
April 30, 2025
Reckoning by Gillian Eliza West is a sweeping, emotionally-charged finale that cements the Infernis Duology as a standout in dark fantasy romance. West delivers a heart-pounding, beautifully written conclusion full of gods, kingdoms, betrayal, and love that transcends death itself.
At the center of this storm is Oralia, a queen forged in shadow, who must walk once more into the lion’s den of Aethera—the kingdom that raised her, betrayed her, and now wants to reclaim her. Her return to the golden court crackles with danger and political tension, made all the more gripping by her evolving powers and the impossible task of confronting the god she once called father.
Renwick, the tortured King of the Dead, continues to shine as a character caught in the grip of love, duty, and self-destruction. His soul bond with Oralia is as haunting as it is beautiful, and the emotional stakes of their bond ripple through every chapter. As war looms and alliances fracture, Reckoning deftly explores what it means to rule, to sacrifice, and to choose love even in the face of ruin.
West’s prose is lyrical and immersive, painting a world both lush and harrowing. The pacing is sharp, the magic is darkly divine, and the romance will leave you breathless. The conclusion doesn’t just satisfy—it soars.
If you crave powerful queens, tragic kings, slow-burn soul bonds, and the kind of emotional stakes that leave you aching in the best way, Reckoning is a must-read. An epic, gothic triumph from beginning to end.
At the center of this storm is Oralia, a queen forged in shadow, who must walk once more into the lion’s den of Aethera—the kingdom that raised her, betrayed her, and now wants to reclaim her. Her return to the golden court crackles with danger and political tension, made all the more gripping by her evolving powers and the impossible task of confronting the god she once called father.
Renwick, the tortured King of the Dead, continues to shine as a character caught in the grip of love, duty, and self-destruction. His soul bond with Oralia is as haunting as it is beautiful, and the emotional stakes of their bond ripple through every chapter. As war looms and alliances fracture, Reckoning deftly explores what it means to rule, to sacrifice, and to choose love even in the face of ruin.
West’s prose is lyrical and immersive, painting a world both lush and harrowing. The pacing is sharp, the magic is darkly divine, and the romance will leave you breathless. The conclusion doesn’t just satisfy—it soars.
If you crave powerful queens, tragic kings, slow-burn soul bonds, and the kind of emotional stakes that leave you aching in the best way, Reckoning is a must-read. An epic, gothic triumph from beginning to end.
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