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Angel Sworn #2
Tyrant Queen
Once again, Jeff Wheeler unleashes tension and fate in this eagerly awaited sequel to the Angel Sworn series…
All roads lead to Ecbatana as the trading masters say. This ancient fortress with its multi-colored interlocking walls, the vibrant bazars, and its powerful sorcerers who use a mysterious magic called metamorphistry lies in the path of the rag-tag group refugees from fallen Clairvaux.
But as Cimree, Azra, Trinati, and the others soon learn, there is a tradition in Ecbatana both perilous and promising—Ecbatana is periodically ruled by a tyrant queen, chosen to wield absolute power while the scheming nobles react to drastic changes in fortune.
Azra wants to bypass Ecbatana and continue to seek shelter deep within the Tirich Mir mountains where the angel sworn can be safe from the predators unleashed by a fearsome monster bent on destroying all civilization. Or can Ecbatana’s sturdy walls and tunnels defend them from the hordes attacking every hamlet and caravan? Should the Ecbatanans at least be warned of the coming threat?
One thing for sure is Cimree, the inexperienced leader of the angel sworn, will be tested in ways she cannot imagine. There is more to Ecbatana than silks, spices, and magical djinn trapped in gems. There are secrets that may reveal the true nature of the monsters pursuing them and to the very magic she has come to depend on.
All roads lead to Ecbatana as the trading masters say. This ancient fortress with its multi-colored interlocking walls, the vibrant bazars, and its powerful sorcerers who use a mysterious magic called metamorphistry lies in the path of the rag-tag group refugees from fallen Clairvaux.
But as Cimree, Azra, Trinati, and the others soon learn, there is a tradition in Ecbatana both perilous and promising—Ecbatana is periodically ruled by a tyrant queen, chosen to wield absolute power while the scheming nobles react to drastic changes in fortune.
Azra wants to bypass Ecbatana and continue to seek shelter deep within the Tirich Mir mountains where the angel sworn can be safe from the predators unleashed by a fearsome monster bent on destroying all civilization. Or can Ecbatana’s sturdy walls and tunnels defend them from the hordes attacking every hamlet and caravan? Should the Ecbatanans at least be warned of the coming threat?
One thing for sure is Cimree, the inexperienced leader of the angel sworn, will be tested in ways she cannot imagine. There is more to Ecbatana than silks, spices, and magical djinn trapped in gems. There are secrets that may reveal the true nature of the monsters pursuing them and to the very magic she has come to depend on.
- GenresFantasyChristian Fantasy
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2025
235 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
127 books5,233 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
December 29, 2025
The story is inspired by mythology—several of them, apparently—with some very different twists on them.
It took me a little while to get into the book, but then I was hooked. There was a lot of tension that had to do with the feeling of being trapped while being the only who knows they’re in danger. This tense feeling lasted nearly the whole book.
The plot went in a couple directions I did not see coming at all! I don’t think I’ve recovered yet. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, but I think at least two more books are planned, and Jeff is very prolific. I am told there are lots of Easter eggs for his other books, but I haven’t read enough to catch them.
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: Very vague hints at possible assault
Violence/Gore: Lots of fighting; not graphic
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
It took me a little while to get into the book, but then I was hooked. There was a lot of tension that had to do with the feeling of being trapped while being the only who knows they’re in danger. This tense feeling lasted nearly the whole book.
The plot went in a couple directions I did not see coming at all! I don’t think I’ve recovered yet. The ending is a bit of a cliffhanger, but I think at least two more books are planned, and Jeff is very prolific. I am told there are lots of Easter eggs for his other books, but I haven’t read enough to catch them.
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: Very vague hints at possible assault
Violence/Gore: Lots of fighting; not graphic
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
November 11, 2025
I can't even 🤯🤯
Reasons you need to read this book:
1. so I have someone else to freak out to about it, first of all because 🤯🤯🤯
2. THE SNAKES - okay the snakes are so cool
3. the building romantic tension 👀
And I can't say anything else without spoiling the plot. So let me just say this.
Tyrant Queen is full of everything I love in a Jeff Wheeler book. From intrigue, to character growth, to life pondering questions, not to mention the ever fascinating magic systems this is top knotch Wheeler fantasy.
The character growth is amazing. Twists and turns had me captivated. I need the next book immediately and I have no clue what is going to happen but I am obsessed.
Oh yeah, and the Easter eggs to the other Worlds of Jeff Wheeler books. 🤯🤯🤯
So good.
Now I've gotta get my husband to read these books so he can get up to speed so we can have our book club meeting about Tyrant Queen. 😅🤣
Reasons you need to read this book:
1. so I have someone else to freak out to about it, first of all because 🤯🤯🤯
2. THE SNAKES - okay the snakes are so cool
3. the building romantic tension 👀
And I can't say anything else without spoiling the plot. So let me just say this.
Tyrant Queen is full of everything I love in a Jeff Wheeler book. From intrigue, to character growth, to life pondering questions, not to mention the ever fascinating magic systems this is top knotch Wheeler fantasy.
The character growth is amazing. Twists and turns had me captivated. I need the next book immediately and I have no clue what is going to happen but I am obsessed.
Oh yeah, and the Easter eggs to the other Worlds of Jeff Wheeler books. 🤯🤯🤯
So good.
Now I've gotta get my husband to read these books so he can get up to speed so we can have our book club meeting about Tyrant Queen. 😅🤣
October 28, 2025
Review of Tyrant Queen
By Jeff Wheeler
This was a RIDE! First, the little Easter eggs about places and people will be appreciated by those who have read any of Jeff Wheeler’s ‘Muirwood’ books. I have had a few “aha!” moments along the way.
Now, this starts in a fortress city called Ecbatana. It’s protected by seven rings, the first five were each comprised of a different color of painted stone. But the two innermost rings were coated and inlaid with metal; silver, followed by gold. The king who rules this city is a revenant, and the city is a lychgate. This city is also the stage from which much of what happens plays out.
Roque is a servile, yet powerful lord of the city, and is the only one allowed in the presence of the king. And he has a rather significant role to play throughout the story
.
There are several characters of importance, one of which is Cimree, who can “graft” with other animals or birds. But snakes are her true affinity. She’s also a being called an angel sworn, as is her traveling companion, Azra. They have fled the destruction of the Queen Mother’s city of Clairvaux after an attack, and are scouting ahead of the rest of the other angel sworn in their group. And they are keeping watch over a young girl who had appeared out of thin air near the Fear Liath’s lair, (Easter egg!!), and has not spoken a word, but can communicate with gestures and expressions. She also seems to have some sort of latent ability that puts her in sympathy with the world around her.
Something interesting are the two necklaces bearing matching medallions that Cimree and Azra each wear. It allows for them to communicate over vast distances, as well as read the mood of the other wearer. It’s also causing a whorl shaped pattern to grow on their skin under the medallion. Easter egg!!!
This is another of Jeff’s books that draws you in from the start. The worldbuilding is rich with detail, yet not bloated in any way. There are hints at things, but the reader must still think, which is so appreciated by this reader. I really don’t enjoy being spoon fed every detail. The character development is done smoothly, and nothing came across as being forced.
I had a good old fashioned hate going on for Roque. He’s such an evil, self serving, selfish character, that I really hoped for his demise, repeatedly, in the most brutal fashion Mr. Wheeler could dream up! His smile is anything but kind, and he covets something that the angel sworn have secreted away; a seed from the Gallows Tree. Its fruit will heal all afflictions, and grant near immortality. But not all of its effects are beneficial, as Cimree has discovered.
I found this to be a wonderful study in human character, whether showing that there is a lot of good in the world, and people who just try to do the right thing, and then exact opposite. Power hungry, ruthless, greedy people, who care not if they do the most heinous things to achieve absolute power. Murder, lie, steal. All while smiling in your face as they slip a poisoned blade into your heart. And it’s not just Roque who covets, but some of the angel sworn as well, their justification being they can use the power to decimate their enemies…
If your TBR is missing a world and characters that are rich and immersive, and you’re not quite sure who is good or evil, or maybe a bit of both, this is just the remedy you need!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
By Jeff Wheeler
This was a RIDE! First, the little Easter eggs about places and people will be appreciated by those who have read any of Jeff Wheeler’s ‘Muirwood’ books. I have had a few “aha!” moments along the way.
Now, this starts in a fortress city called Ecbatana. It’s protected by seven rings, the first five were each comprised of a different color of painted stone. But the two innermost rings were coated and inlaid with metal; silver, followed by gold. The king who rules this city is a revenant, and the city is a lychgate. This city is also the stage from which much of what happens plays out.
Roque is a servile, yet powerful lord of the city, and is the only one allowed in the presence of the king. And he has a rather significant role to play throughout the story
.
There are several characters of importance, one of which is Cimree, who can “graft” with other animals or birds. But snakes are her true affinity. She’s also a being called an angel sworn, as is her traveling companion, Azra. They have fled the destruction of the Queen Mother’s city of Clairvaux after an attack, and are scouting ahead of the rest of the other angel sworn in their group. And they are keeping watch over a young girl who had appeared out of thin air near the Fear Liath’s lair, (Easter egg!!), and has not spoken a word, but can communicate with gestures and expressions. She also seems to have some sort of latent ability that puts her in sympathy with the world around her.
Something interesting are the two necklaces bearing matching medallions that Cimree and Azra each wear. It allows for them to communicate over vast distances, as well as read the mood of the other wearer. It’s also causing a whorl shaped pattern to grow on their skin under the medallion. Easter egg!!!
This is another of Jeff’s books that draws you in from the start. The worldbuilding is rich with detail, yet not bloated in any way. There are hints at things, but the reader must still think, which is so appreciated by this reader. I really don’t enjoy being spoon fed every detail. The character development is done smoothly, and nothing came across as being forced.
I had a good old fashioned hate going on for Roque. He’s such an evil, self serving, selfish character, that I really hoped for his demise, repeatedly, in the most brutal fashion Mr. Wheeler could dream up! His smile is anything but kind, and he covets something that the angel sworn have secreted away; a seed from the Gallows Tree. Its fruit will heal all afflictions, and grant near immortality. But not all of its effects are beneficial, as Cimree has discovered.
I found this to be a wonderful study in human character, whether showing that there is a lot of good in the world, and people who just try to do the right thing, and then exact opposite. Power hungry, ruthless, greedy people, who care not if they do the most heinous things to achieve absolute power. Murder, lie, steal. All while smiling in your face as they slip a poisoned blade into your heart. And it’s not just Roque who covets, but some of the angel sworn as well, their justification being they can use the power to decimate their enemies…
If your TBR is missing a world and characters that are rich and immersive, and you’re not quite sure who is good or evil, or maybe a bit of both, this is just the remedy you need!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2025
Check out the first book before you check this one out! You will need to read it before you will understand what's going on her. There will be spoilers to book one in this review when you get to my thoughts.
Overview:
Language 🤐: Clean
Romance ❤️🔥: None just tension and yearning
Violence ⚔️: Normal fantasy violence I really felt like there wasn't anything too graphic but it's definitely present
⚠️Kidnapping, Sexual Assault Eluded to (nothing graphic) ⚠️
Tropes/Micro tropes
- Single POV (other then the epilogue and prologue are different POVs)
- Reluctant Leader
- Impossible Choices
- Magical Connection to animals
- Biblical inspiration for this story
- Tension and growing longing between MMC and FMC
- ALL THE PLOT TWIST!
My Thoughts:
Initial:
OH MY GOODNESSS!!! I did not see the ending coming at all! I NEED THE NEXT BOOK NOW!! So many great twist and complicated situations contemplated in this book! I love it so much! Also Azra is everything I could want in a MMC, talk about a protective MMC ugh! He’s so awesome! And Cimree oh Cimree I love her so much! These characters I can’t get enough of them! I can’t say enough about it and Jeff’s Authors note at the end of this book was absolutely powerful! Ugh I love this series so so much! Can not wait for the next one!
Final thoughts:
This book is so great! We have the struggles that Cimree is facing as she is helping all the refugees who escaped with her and some who have joined along the way to take care of. When Trinati pushes to go to Ecbatana and makes Cimree question her position and leadership, she's left to make a choice that will impact so much. Does she continue on and skip the whole city or give into Trinati and Oden and the other Angel Sworn ideas to go into Ecbatana. She has to weigh the thought of going in to resupply while they still have a long way to go on their journey.
There is so much growth for Cimree as she is faced with these challenges and the opposition to her leadership. As well as her trying to understand and grapple with the past lives which she has forgotten. She trust Azra but is trying to make the best decision for the group which is under her care. There is turmoil in the ranks and division in opinions. When things spiral out of control we are able to see Cimree's growth in confidence and it's so wonderful to see.
It's also so fun to learn more with Cimree about what she is capable of. It's also so fun to learn more about Azra in this book and get a bit more glimpse into his character. He truly is the best and such an amazing support and protector!
This is one you definitely don't want to miss and I'm anxiously awaiting the next installment in this amazing series!
Thank you to Netgalley, Booksprout, and the Publisher for this ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
Overview:
Language 🤐: Clean
Romance ❤️🔥: None just tension and yearning
Violence ⚔️: Normal fantasy violence I really felt like there wasn't anything too graphic but it's definitely present
⚠️Kidnapping, Sexual Assault Eluded to (nothing graphic) ⚠️
Tropes/Micro tropes
- Single POV (other then the epilogue and prologue are different POVs)
- Reluctant Leader
- Impossible Choices
- Magical Connection to animals
- Biblical inspiration for this story
- Tension and growing longing between MMC and FMC
- ALL THE PLOT TWIST!
My Thoughts:
Initial:
OH MY GOODNESSS!!! I did not see the ending coming at all! I NEED THE NEXT BOOK NOW!! So many great twist and complicated situations contemplated in this book! I love it so much! Also Azra is everything I could want in a MMC, talk about a protective MMC ugh! He’s so awesome! And Cimree oh Cimree I love her so much! These characters I can’t get enough of them! I can’t say enough about it and Jeff’s Authors note at the end of this book was absolutely powerful! Ugh I love this series so so much! Can not wait for the next one!
Final thoughts:
This book is so great! We have the struggles that Cimree is facing as she is helping all the refugees who escaped with her and some who have joined along the way to take care of. When Trinati pushes to go to Ecbatana and makes Cimree question her position and leadership, she's left to make a choice that will impact so much. Does she continue on and skip the whole city or give into Trinati and Oden and the other Angel Sworn ideas to go into Ecbatana. She has to weigh the thought of going in to resupply while they still have a long way to go on their journey.
There is so much growth for Cimree as she is faced with these challenges and the opposition to her leadership. As well as her trying to understand and grapple with the past lives which she has forgotten. She trust Azra but is trying to make the best decision for the group which is under her care. There is turmoil in the ranks and division in opinions. When things spiral out of control we are able to see Cimree's growth in confidence and it's so wonderful to see.
It's also so fun to learn more with Cimree about what she is capable of. It's also so fun to learn more about Azra in this book and get a bit more glimpse into his character. He truly is the best and such an amazing support and protector!
This is one you definitely don't want to miss and I'm anxiously awaiting the next installment in this amazing series!
Thank you to Netgalley, Booksprout, and the Publisher for this ARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
October 29, 2025
Spoilers ahead! For this book as well as possible spoilers for other series by Jeff!
Wow, there’s a lot to unpack with the latest book of the Angel Sworn series. Our band of characters is on the move/run after the fall of Clairvaux and find themselves in the city of Ecbatana. At first, they seem welcomed by the cities authorities but of course that is too good to be true. Treachery lurks around every corner, both from outside sources as well as from within their own group. The group learns the lore surrounding the title of Tyrant Queen which adds to the mayhem.
There are lots of Easter eggs! Nods to several of Jeff’s other works. The bare tree covered in butterflies, and the way the revenant revives into different lives like we saw in The Killing Fog series. People capable of casting blue fire from their hands just like in the Fireblood series. Not to mention several connections to the world of Muirwood (hetaeras, kishions, gold tomes, oh my!). I love that this is another piece of the multiverse!
Cimree’s story also seems to be diving head first (literally) into Medusa lore! The story leaves us hanging with our heroine having undergone a metamorphosis not of her choosing. She can’t follow her friends to safety without risking their lives and chooses to stay in the ruined and war torn city of Ecbatana. She seems to think the only solution is the fruit of the Gallows Tree, which will take years to grow and bear fruit. She also needs to unravel the mystery surrounding the golem and why it seems drawn to her specifically.
Book 2 has left me with more questions than answers (of course), but I can’t wait for these pieces to start falling into place!
Wow, there’s a lot to unpack with the latest book of the Angel Sworn series. Our band of characters is on the move/run after the fall of Clairvaux and find themselves in the city of Ecbatana. At first, they seem welcomed by the cities authorities but of course that is too good to be true. Treachery lurks around every corner, both from outside sources as well as from within their own group. The group learns the lore surrounding the title of Tyrant Queen which adds to the mayhem.
There are lots of Easter eggs! Nods to several of Jeff’s other works. The bare tree covered in butterflies, and the way the revenant revives into different lives like we saw in The Killing Fog series. People capable of casting blue fire from their hands just like in the Fireblood series. Not to mention several connections to the world of Muirwood (hetaeras, kishions, gold tomes, oh my!). I love that this is another piece of the multiverse!
Cimree’s story also seems to be diving head first (literally) into Medusa lore! The story leaves us hanging with our heroine having undergone a metamorphosis not of her choosing. She can’t follow her friends to safety without risking their lives and chooses to stay in the ruined and war torn city of Ecbatana. She seems to think the only solution is the fruit of the Gallows Tree, which will take years to grow and bear fruit. She also needs to unravel the mystery surrounding the golem and why it seems drawn to her specifically.
Book 2 has left me with more questions than answers (of course), but I can’t wait for these pieces to start falling into place!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2025
Hetaeras, Wizers, and Dryad-bord, oh my!
Tyrant Queen picks up where Queen Mother ended—Clairvaux destroyed, the Queen Mother a prisoner, and Cimree and her band of survivors heading to the Trich Mir. On their way, the group encounters the city of Ecbatana. While Ecbatana is an interesting setting for this story, what truly drew me in was seeing the connections between the worlds touched by the Knowing/Oldknow/Medium/Fountain.
I had so much fun seeing the connections to the other worlds, and speculating who would do what based on that knowledge—I am planning on starting the Whispers from Mirrowen series again before book three comes out. In addition to the connections though, this book stands apart from Jeff Wheeler’s other work for me. Cimree’s character is so interesting—her affinity to serpents, which are typically and even in this world synonymous with evil, reinforces for me that someone can shed their skin and become a new person. Cimree’s past life is a mystery to her—did she eat the fruit to lose her memories, did a Dryad have a role? I have so many theories.
And then the final twist that I didn’t expect, although the seeds were there all along—Cimree becoming a Gorgon. I put the book down and just smiled. The violation of her being, running parallel with the Myth of Medusa, was just the icing on the already decadent cake for me. I cannot wait to see how this plays out in book three, and plan on revisiting the rest of these connected worlds to see if I can find any other connections.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tyrant Queen picks up where Queen Mother ended—Clairvaux destroyed, the Queen Mother a prisoner, and Cimree and her band of survivors heading to the Trich Mir. On their way, the group encounters the city of Ecbatana. While Ecbatana is an interesting setting for this story, what truly drew me in was seeing the connections between the worlds touched by the Knowing/Oldknow/Medium/Fountain.
I had so much fun seeing the connections to the other worlds, and speculating who would do what based on that knowledge—I am planning on starting the Whispers from Mirrowen series again before book three comes out. In addition to the connections though, this book stands apart from Jeff Wheeler’s other work for me. Cimree’s character is so interesting—her affinity to serpents, which are typically and even in this world synonymous with evil, reinforces for me that someone can shed their skin and become a new person. Cimree’s past life is a mystery to her—did she eat the fruit to lose her memories, did a Dryad have a role? I have so many theories.
And then the final twist that I didn’t expect, although the seeds were there all along—Cimree becoming a Gorgon. I put the book down and just smiled. The violation of her being, running parallel with the Myth of Medusa, was just the icing on the already decadent cake for me. I cannot wait to see how this plays out in book three, and plan on revisiting the rest of these connected worlds to see if I can find any other connections.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2026
Where Lore Meets Life
Oh my good gravy, this book!!!!! I took my sweet time reading it, but I am SO GLAD I DID because it is absolutely full of lore and mystery and excitement and I loved every single minute of it! Jeff Wheeler is a master storyteller and I feel like this book is another jewel in his crown. I am so so soooo excited to see what comes next for these absolutely stellar characters! (Especially after that ending! Oh boy!)
Oh my good gravy, this book!!!!! I took my sweet time reading it, but I am SO GLAD I DID because it is absolutely full of lore and mystery and excitement and I loved every single minute of it! Jeff Wheeler is a master storyteller and I feel like this book is another jewel in his crown. I am so so soooo excited to see what comes next for these absolutely stellar characters! (Especially after that ending! Oh boy!)
October 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I have a lot of interest in Christian “mythology “ so to speak and think this was an awesome interweaving of some Biblical stories and some of the lesser known “myths “ or extra-Biblical stories. The Watchers and the fallen angels alluded to in Genesis are super interesting and definitely open to tons of different interpretations and perspectives. Then, add in some Greek mythology and you have the recipe for a great story. Needless to say, I loved the world and setting. The characters were very well written and enjoyable to read. I didn’t want to put this one down!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2025
This book was thoroughly engaging. I enjoyed reconnecting with the characters introduced in the first installment and following their continued growth and development. The city setting added a vibrant, dynamic backdrop, and the subtle connections to Jeff’s other works were a delightful touch.
The ending, however, was the real standout. The final twist was completely unexpected and left me eager to see where the story goes next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The ending, however, was the real standout. The final twist was completely unexpected and left me eager to see where the story goes next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2025
I found Tyrant Queen captivating-
I had a hard time putting it down to do real world things. I have yet to read the predecessor to this story. I was able to follow the story and get to know the characters quickly. There is intrigue, clean romance, adventure and conflict. This would be an excellent read for young adults through adults. I actually thought about several of my grandchildren that I felt would enjoy it.
I am so glad I had the time and opportunity to review this book. I am looking forward to reading more of Jeff Wheeler’s books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I had a hard time putting it down to do real world things. I have yet to read the predecessor to this story. I was able to follow the story and get to know the characters quickly. There is intrigue, clean romance, adventure and conflict. This would be an excellent read for young adults through adults. I actually thought about several of my grandchildren that I felt would enjoy it.
I am so glad I had the time and opportunity to review this book. I am looking forward to reading more of Jeff Wheeler’s books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2025
Loved this one! Love Cimree and Azra. Can’t wait for book 3!!
November 9, 2025
Jeff Wheeler never misses, and this book was no exception. The pacing was spot on, the twists kept me hooked, and the characters were written very well. The mix of political intrigue, magic, and emotion just hit all the right notes. If you’ve read any of Wheeler’s other books, you’ll definitely appreciate this one. Highly recommend if you’re into epic fantasy with real heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 11, 2025
Where Power, Loyalty, and Destiny Collide — A Must-Read!
This is the second book in the Angel Sworn series, so if you haven't read the first book "Queen Mother" you need to read that first to understand this one. Clairvaux has fallen and the Clairvauxian refugees are on the run trying to find safety from the Golem and the evil destruction it inflicts on all the “humans” and Angel Sworn in its path. Can Cimree and Azra find safety for those that are relying on them? Azra wants to shelter them in the caves in the mountains deep within Tirich Mir, but Trinati wants to forge ahead and take them all to Ecbatana which Azra wants to bypass in its entirety. Ecbatana is an ancient trading city that has never fallen because it is fortified with multiple circular layers of interlocking walls, with bazaars in one layer, trade buildings in the next, military in another level, and wealthier homes closer to the center where the palace resides. But Azra has been to Ecbatana before and knows the temptations that lure travelers within Ecbatana’s depths until it’s too late and they cannot leave. Ecbatana is both full of promise and peril – the people are entering their tradition of choosing a tyrant queen, one who will wield absolute power and destroy the current scheming regime to change the course of the current rule to something better. But something corrupt lies beneath the façade of smiles and hospitality. Trinati and those Angel Sworn loyal to her continue to look down on Cimree as their leader partly because of her inexperience. They are both still looking for a place to plant the last seed from the Gallows Tree and a peaceful, safe home for their people. Will Cimree, Trinati, or one of the other Angel Sworn become the Tyrant Queen? Will Cimree find out more about her hidden memories and her past? Will their group stay in Ecbatana and call it home, or will they continue onward to Tirich Mir? Or will they be so undecided that those loyal to Cimree leave for Tirich Mir and those loyal to Trinati stay in the magnificent Ecbatana? Betrayal and monsters lie around every corner and deep within each soul.
Wheeler also skillfully leaves a sprinkling of easter eggs from his other worlds to tie some of his fantasy worlds together. Big fans of Jeff Wheeler’s books will see the faint whispers from across the different worlds and timelines weaving them all together.
What really stood out to me was how the narrative also delves into questions of morality, forgiveness, loyalty, and survival. The pacing is excellent, and the twists kept me turning the pages late into the night. This book left me in awe and I am eagerly anticipating the release of the third book in the series to see how Cimree’s journey unfolds and whether Clairvaux can be resurrected somewhere else. I highly recommend “Tyrant Queen” to anyone who loves fantasy with heart and depth!
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am providing an independent review.
This is the second book in the Angel Sworn series, so if you haven't read the first book "Queen Mother" you need to read that first to understand this one. Clairvaux has fallen and the Clairvauxian refugees are on the run trying to find safety from the Golem and the evil destruction it inflicts on all the “humans” and Angel Sworn in its path. Can Cimree and Azra find safety for those that are relying on them? Azra wants to shelter them in the caves in the mountains deep within Tirich Mir, but Trinati wants to forge ahead and take them all to Ecbatana which Azra wants to bypass in its entirety. Ecbatana is an ancient trading city that has never fallen because it is fortified with multiple circular layers of interlocking walls, with bazaars in one layer, trade buildings in the next, military in another level, and wealthier homes closer to the center where the palace resides. But Azra has been to Ecbatana before and knows the temptations that lure travelers within Ecbatana’s depths until it’s too late and they cannot leave. Ecbatana is both full of promise and peril – the people are entering their tradition of choosing a tyrant queen, one who will wield absolute power and destroy the current scheming regime to change the course of the current rule to something better. But something corrupt lies beneath the façade of smiles and hospitality. Trinati and those Angel Sworn loyal to her continue to look down on Cimree as their leader partly because of her inexperience. They are both still looking for a place to plant the last seed from the Gallows Tree and a peaceful, safe home for their people. Will Cimree, Trinati, or one of the other Angel Sworn become the Tyrant Queen? Will Cimree find out more about her hidden memories and her past? Will their group stay in Ecbatana and call it home, or will they continue onward to Tirich Mir? Or will they be so undecided that those loyal to Cimree leave for Tirich Mir and those loyal to Trinati stay in the magnificent Ecbatana? Betrayal and monsters lie around every corner and deep within each soul.
Wheeler also skillfully leaves a sprinkling of easter eggs from his other worlds to tie some of his fantasy worlds together. Big fans of Jeff Wheeler’s books will see the faint whispers from across the different worlds and timelines weaving them all together.
What really stood out to me was how the narrative also delves into questions of morality, forgiveness, loyalty, and survival. The pacing is excellent, and the twists kept me turning the pages late into the night. This book left me in awe and I am eagerly anticipating the release of the third book in the series to see how Cimree’s journey unfolds and whether Clairvaux can be resurrected somewhere else. I highly recommend “Tyrant Queen” to anyone who loves fantasy with heart and depth!
I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout and am providing an independent review.
November 11, 2025
The book “Tyrant Queen” falls into the category of “Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans,” with a detour that is filled with conflict, an exotic locale, and questions that lead to unexpected answers.
“Tyrant Queen” is the second in the Angel Sworn series, written by fantasy author Jeff Wheeler. I was provided an advance copy of the book with the understanding that I would write an honest review.
The book is a mash-up: a twist on the biblical origin story, bits of other Wheeler books, plus a third element – Greek mythology. It’s an unusual combination, but it kept my interest as the chapters unfolded.
For readers who are relatively new to Wheeler’s writings, items from his other worlds — such as nightshade, wizrs, hataera and the Tay al-Ard — stand on their own in “Tyrant Queen.” But for veteran Wheeler fans, they hold meaning beyond this book.
“Tyrant Queen” continues the journey of Cimree, Azra, Trinati and the small band that escapes with them from the destruction of their homeland, Clairvaux. The conflict that began in the “Queen Mother” between Cimree, the former apprentice healer, and the archangel Trinati over who should lead the group carries over into this sequel.
The detour comes when they are confronted with whether to continue the long trek to mountainous Tirich Mir and a new beginning or go to nearby Ecbatana, a wealthy Middle Eastern-type kingdom with a souk (Arab marketplace), silk clothing and mysterious customs, that offers seeming security.
But not everything or everyone is as it or they seem.
Should they stay long enough to offer a warning of the destruction to come and then flee? Or, as Trinati suggests, remain there and reap the benefits, including attempting to win the title of Tyrant Queen. My only quibble with this book is the pettiness and petulance that coat Trinati’s behavior and actions. Aren’t archangels supposed to be better than that?
Wheeler ratchets up the tension as Cimree struggles with how to lead, who to trust and what to do, relying on Azra along the way. By the end, she is confronted with a challenge that may thwart her ability to get to the promised land.
Wheeler never makes middle books in a series place-holders. “Tyrant Queen” is no exception, keeping readers guessing what will happen next and teasing longtime readers with clues that spark questions about how this world will overlap with other ones he’s created.
I am looking forward to book three of the series, which comes out next spring, to see how Wheeler ties everything together.
“Tyrant Queen” is the second in the Angel Sworn series, written by fantasy author Jeff Wheeler. I was provided an advance copy of the book with the understanding that I would write an honest review.
The book is a mash-up: a twist on the biblical origin story, bits of other Wheeler books, plus a third element – Greek mythology. It’s an unusual combination, but it kept my interest as the chapters unfolded.
For readers who are relatively new to Wheeler’s writings, items from his other worlds — such as nightshade, wizrs, hataera and the Tay al-Ard — stand on their own in “Tyrant Queen.” But for veteran Wheeler fans, they hold meaning beyond this book.
“Tyrant Queen” continues the journey of Cimree, Azra, Trinati and the small band that escapes with them from the destruction of their homeland, Clairvaux. The conflict that began in the “Queen Mother” between Cimree, the former apprentice healer, and the archangel Trinati over who should lead the group carries over into this sequel.
The detour comes when they are confronted with whether to continue the long trek to mountainous Tirich Mir and a new beginning or go to nearby Ecbatana, a wealthy Middle Eastern-type kingdom with a souk (Arab marketplace), silk clothing and mysterious customs, that offers seeming security.
But not everything or everyone is as it or they seem.
Should they stay long enough to offer a warning of the destruction to come and then flee? Or, as Trinati suggests, remain there and reap the benefits, including attempting to win the title of Tyrant Queen. My only quibble with this book is the pettiness and petulance that coat Trinati’s behavior and actions. Aren’t archangels supposed to be better than that?
Wheeler ratchets up the tension as Cimree struggles with how to lead, who to trust and what to do, relying on Azra along the way. By the end, she is confronted with a challenge that may thwart her ability to get to the promised land.
Wheeler never makes middle books in a series place-holders. “Tyrant Queen” is no exception, keeping readers guessing what will happen next and teasing longtime readers with clues that spark questions about how this world will overlap with other ones he’s created.
I am looking forward to book three of the series, which comes out next spring, to see how Wheeler ties everything together.
November 11, 2025
Tyrant Queen is book 2 in Jeff Wheeler’s new Angel Sworn series. It’s one of my current favorites and I wholeheartedly recommend it!
Book 1, Queen Mother, is a ‘keep you glued to the seat of your chair until you finish the book’ style page turner. I enjoyed it, but there was quite a bit of tension as Mr. Wheeler introduced us to the characters and the perils that they faced, all the while hinting at good things yet to come.
Fast forward to Tyrant Queen. Tyrant Queen is the good stuff yet to come. While it is also a fast-paced page turner, with the background of Queen Mother already established, readers are able to savor the engaging characters and have the luxury of examining in greater depth the dilemmas and intrigues that are introduced in the first book. The action keeps coming, but I found the characters to be even deeper and more compelling this time around. There are continual bread crumb trails as the story unfolds, not only leading the reader to exciting plot twists and suppositions, but also leading the reader to contemplate ideas like free will, divided loyalties, imperfect leaders, the lasting impact of decisions and how to decide who to follow and why.
As I grew to love the characters and became more engrossed in the story, at its conclusion, I was reminded that this is just part of a series. While he has addressed one of the major plot points that has plagued the main characters, Mr. Wheeler has left us a cliff hanger ending and more questions than answers! Fortunately, as always, Mr. Wheeler has announced that he is hard at work on book 3, so there won’t be a huge wait time for those of us who are on tenterhooks to find out how he resolves the seemingly unsolvable barriers that are left. And there are some pretty amazing barriers!
What you need to know:
-Read this, it’s great!
-Read it in order, starting with book 1, Queen Mother.
-Be aware that you will want to read book 3 after finishing this. It should be coming soon.
-Mr. Wheeler is true to his magic systems and principles of integrity. If you look carefully, you will see that although things look different in this world, the rules are consistent.
-I am a fan of Jeff Wheeler and have read a lot of, but not all of his books. I had the opportunity to read Tyrant Queen as an advanced copy e-book which I received in exchange for leaving an unbiased review on publication day.
Give this one a try! I loved it!
Book 1, Queen Mother, is a ‘keep you glued to the seat of your chair until you finish the book’ style page turner. I enjoyed it, but there was quite a bit of tension as Mr. Wheeler introduced us to the characters and the perils that they faced, all the while hinting at good things yet to come.
Fast forward to Tyrant Queen. Tyrant Queen is the good stuff yet to come. While it is also a fast-paced page turner, with the background of Queen Mother already established, readers are able to savor the engaging characters and have the luxury of examining in greater depth the dilemmas and intrigues that are introduced in the first book. The action keeps coming, but I found the characters to be even deeper and more compelling this time around. There are continual bread crumb trails as the story unfolds, not only leading the reader to exciting plot twists and suppositions, but also leading the reader to contemplate ideas like free will, divided loyalties, imperfect leaders, the lasting impact of decisions and how to decide who to follow and why.
As I grew to love the characters and became more engrossed in the story, at its conclusion, I was reminded that this is just part of a series. While he has addressed one of the major plot points that has plagued the main characters, Mr. Wheeler has left us a cliff hanger ending and more questions than answers! Fortunately, as always, Mr. Wheeler has announced that he is hard at work on book 3, so there won’t be a huge wait time for those of us who are on tenterhooks to find out how he resolves the seemingly unsolvable barriers that are left. And there are some pretty amazing barriers!
What you need to know:
-Read this, it’s great!
-Read it in order, starting with book 1, Queen Mother.
-Be aware that you will want to read book 3 after finishing this. It should be coming soon.
-Mr. Wheeler is true to his magic systems and principles of integrity. If you look carefully, you will see that although things look different in this world, the rules are consistent.
-I am a fan of Jeff Wheeler and have read a lot of, but not all of his books. I had the opportunity to read Tyrant Queen as an advanced copy e-book which I received in exchange for leaving an unbiased review on publication day.
Give this one a try! I loved it!
November 9, 2025
Without a doubt, read this. I’m so impressed Jeff Wheeler can churn out books so prolifically; but I’m also so grateful because I don’t want to wait for more!
Queen Tyrant is a reminder there is no such thing as a “free lunch.” When someone offers you something for free, you best watch out for the attached strings, and watch your back. Even being the Tyrant Queen is a poison pill!
We follow Cimree and Azra as they flee a destroying, powerful, but mysterious enemy that can negate their power(s) that allow them to command beast traits, control emotions, heal and extend lives. They seek a new, safe home for the straggling survivors of Clairvaux (read book 1) choosing to follow the reluctant new leader, Cimree.
In one possible new home, Ecbatana, nothing is as it seems. The reader gets to grapple with our own, human feelings of judging others without knowing the path they’ve walked. Jeff Wheeler pulls a playbook from Indiana Jones and/or Stephen King and forces the reader to confront fears of spiders and snakes (snakes…why did it have to be snakes!) As in Queen Mother, we get to ruminate over betrayal, options for forgiveness, choosing the right thing, and in this book we add leadership. Who is the true villain in this series and, more importantly, why???
Cimree is really relatable as a leader. She desires to do right by her followers, while not knowing what that path should be. She has doubts, questions her decisions, and gives grace when others counsel not to and even undermine her. You root for her because she fights for others.
As an odd twist (that I find a stretch in this particular book and hope it's vetted in the next), the reader gets to ruminate over life ala Medusa. What is life like as a Frankensteinesque outcast? Can/should Medusa’s powers be used for good? Does it make her evil if she does use them?
The reader doesn’t know the Golem’s interest in Cimree; nor do we learn Cimree’s full history to understand the significance of the Golem’s interactions with her. At the same time, Jeff Wheeler ties this series into his previous works with Tay Alard magic and drops references to his other worlds. I love it!
Give.Me.More!!! I shamelessly beg for the next book…
Queen Tyrant is a reminder there is no such thing as a “free lunch.” When someone offers you something for free, you best watch out for the attached strings, and watch your back. Even being the Tyrant Queen is a poison pill!
We follow Cimree and Azra as they flee a destroying, powerful, but mysterious enemy that can negate their power(s) that allow them to command beast traits, control emotions, heal and extend lives. They seek a new, safe home for the straggling survivors of Clairvaux (read book 1) choosing to follow the reluctant new leader, Cimree.
In one possible new home, Ecbatana, nothing is as it seems. The reader gets to grapple with our own, human feelings of judging others without knowing the path they’ve walked. Jeff Wheeler pulls a playbook from Indiana Jones and/or Stephen King and forces the reader to confront fears of spiders and snakes (snakes…why did it have to be snakes!) As in Queen Mother, we get to ruminate over betrayal, options for forgiveness, choosing the right thing, and in this book we add leadership. Who is the true villain in this series and, more importantly, why???
Cimree is really relatable as a leader. She desires to do right by her followers, while not knowing what that path should be. She has doubts, questions her decisions, and gives grace when others counsel not to and even undermine her. You root for her because she fights for others.
As an odd twist (that I find a stretch in this particular book and hope it's vetted in the next), the reader gets to ruminate over life ala Medusa. What is life like as a Frankensteinesque outcast? Can/should Medusa’s powers be used for good? Does it make her evil if she does use them?
The reader doesn’t know the Golem’s interest in Cimree; nor do we learn Cimree’s full history to understand the significance of the Golem’s interactions with her. At the same time, Jeff Wheeler ties this series into his previous works with Tay Alard magic and drops references to his other worlds. I love it!
Give.Me.More!!! I shamelessly beg for the next book…
November 10, 2025
There is a lot to unpack with this latest Jeff Wheeler novel. I'm going to do my best to not spoil anything specific.
It continues the story of Cimree, Azra and others that join them to find a safe haven to start anew. At the beginning the goal of our characters is to re-establish a new Gallows Tree from a seed. It’s eluded that doing this would seemingly solve all of their problems. There are others that want the seed for themselves and will do anything to get it.
That plot continues throughout the entire book. We have quite a few subplots joining the story. From political intrigue, economic class challenges to betrayal and regret.
Oh and snakes. Lots of snakes. Even with them ever so present in the story I was not expecting the plot twist. That came out of left field even though it was sort of hinted at in the forbidden garden I didn’t pick up on what was going to happen. At first the twist was so jarring I wasn’t happy about it. It changes a lot of things that were sort of expected from the readers perspective. As I finished the book I have come to like the new challenge set before our characters. What has happened doesn’t appear to be falling into typical tropes for that you’d expect for it. I’m very excited to see what happens in the next book in the series.
What I have come to really enjoy with Jeff Wheeler’s novels is the world building. The easter eggs he sets within the books on how different series he’s written are tied together are great. They’re not overly subtle nor overt. Just enough to make you have some ‘ahh ha!’ moments while reading when you connect some dots. This latest book, 'Tyrant Queen' has many things that link it to other series. I feel like we're reading where the beginning of when certain organizations in other series were started.
I’m really curious to see a world building map with all the links between series. I’m starting to wonder if we’re reading different eras between series that yes, these worlds are connected but events you’ve read in one series happened many years apart.
Thanks for the fun read Jeff!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It continues the story of Cimree, Azra and others that join them to find a safe haven to start anew. At the beginning the goal of our characters is to re-establish a new Gallows Tree from a seed. It’s eluded that doing this would seemingly solve all of their problems. There are others that want the seed for themselves and will do anything to get it.
That plot continues throughout the entire book. We have quite a few subplots joining the story. From political intrigue, economic class challenges to betrayal and regret.
Oh and snakes. Lots of snakes. Even with them ever so present in the story I was not expecting the plot twist. That came out of left field even though it was sort of hinted at in the forbidden garden I didn’t pick up on what was going to happen. At first the twist was so jarring I wasn’t happy about it. It changes a lot of things that were sort of expected from the readers perspective. As I finished the book I have come to like the new challenge set before our characters. What has happened doesn’t appear to be falling into typical tropes for that you’d expect for it. I’m very excited to see what happens in the next book in the series.
What I have come to really enjoy with Jeff Wheeler’s novels is the world building. The easter eggs he sets within the books on how different series he’s written are tied together are great. They’re not overly subtle nor overt. Just enough to make you have some ‘ahh ha!’ moments while reading when you connect some dots. This latest book, 'Tyrant Queen' has many things that link it to other series. I feel like we're reading where the beginning of when certain organizations in other series were started.
I’m really curious to see a world building map with all the links between series. I’m starting to wonder if we’re reading different eras between series that yes, these worlds are connected but events you’ve read in one series happened many years apart.
Thanks for the fun read Jeff!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2025
I’m not quite sure how I feel about this series. I enjoyed the first book a bit more than this one. The story just feels like it has been at arm’s length since I started.
I like Cimree and Azra, but I also feel like I don’t really know them that well, like more characterization could have been added about them throughout the story. I hope they have a romance by the end of the series.
I liked Trinati in the first book, but she has changed a lot in this book, which felt out of character, but Cimree pointed out to her that she’s different lately, so it must be intentional character development.
I wish I felt more connected to the side characters. Odeon, Wegner, Uorsin, Darcia, Roque, the golem, and most of the other secondary and tertiary characters all felt like cardboard cutouts. They were so unmemorable that I honestly forget they existed until their names showed back up on the page again.
I guess I don’t really understand the plot, like what the point of the whole series is. The first book was sort of a play on “what if Adam’s first wife Lilith was still living in the Garden of Eden?” but then the second book adds in the idea of Medusa to that and it kind of lost me. Medusa is cool and all, but I didn’t feel like she had a place in the story. But this isn’t my book and I did like the author’s note at the end and I’m glad Jeff Wheeler gets to write what he wants to write.
I liked the grafting magic, where characters can form a bond with an animal and use some of its abilities. And I also liked that there was lots of political intrigue woven into the story as the crew stops in a city on their journey that is known for lying and scheming.
While this book does have good elements, I ended up just not really vibing with it overall. I cannot fully articulate what exactly my thoughts are on this series, but it’s complicated. I think this is sadly my last favorite Jeff Wheeler series, but I do still plan to finish the series as I want to see how it ends and I also intend to read all of the author’s works at some point.
I received a free copy of this book for review from the publisher via Booksprout.
I like Cimree and Azra, but I also feel like I don’t really know them that well, like more characterization could have been added about them throughout the story. I hope they have a romance by the end of the series.
I liked Trinati in the first book, but she has changed a lot in this book, which felt out of character, but Cimree pointed out to her that she’s different lately, so it must be intentional character development.
I wish I felt more connected to the side characters. Odeon, Wegner, Uorsin, Darcia, Roque, the golem, and most of the other secondary and tertiary characters all felt like cardboard cutouts. They were so unmemorable that I honestly forget they existed until their names showed back up on the page again.
I guess I don’t really understand the plot, like what the point of the whole series is. The first book was sort of a play on “what if Adam’s first wife Lilith was still living in the Garden of Eden?” but then the second book adds in the idea of Medusa to that and it kind of lost me. Medusa is cool and all, but I didn’t feel like she had a place in the story. But this isn’t my book and I did like the author’s note at the end and I’m glad Jeff Wheeler gets to write what he wants to write.
I liked the grafting magic, where characters can form a bond with an animal and use some of its abilities. And I also liked that there was lots of political intrigue woven into the story as the crew stops in a city on their journey that is known for lying and scheming.
While this book does have good elements, I ended up just not really vibing with it overall. I cannot fully articulate what exactly my thoughts are on this series, but it’s complicated. I think this is sadly my last favorite Jeff Wheeler series, but I do still plan to finish the series as I want to see how it ends and I also intend to read all of the author’s works at some point.
I received a free copy of this book for review from the publisher via Booksprout.
November 12, 2025
Not going to lie. After reading the first book of this series, I was not looking forward to reading the next book,Tyrant Queen. I am happy to report that the follow up book is leaps and bounds above the debut novel. Where the first novel was chaotic and rushed in its exposition, Tyrant Queen is nicely paced and well written. We find the good folks of Clairvaux, months after fleeing the monsters of the angel city, searching for a safe haven for the seed of the Gallows Tree. Cimree has been uncomfortably crowned the group leader with Azra by her side. Despite Cimree having possession of the Tannequil medallion and having Azra’s support, there is much conflict and distrust of her ability to lead.
The Angel Sworn are used to being in charge and the archangel Trinati is especially determined to take control. Cimree has her own doubts about her ability to lead and begins to defer to Trinati. Although Azra warns the group about the nearby fortress of Ecbatana’s history of shooting the Angel Sworn, surely they should at least warn the city about the monsters on the loose.
They arrive in Ecbatana to welcoming arms and finely appointed living quarters. The Angel Sworn are now highly regarded and treated like royalty and they have arrived just in time to participate in the city’s traditional choosing of the Tyrant Queen. Egos stroked, the group let’s its guard down, but all that glitters is not gold and under the glamour are snake pits, deadly fruits and a lychgate harboring a revenant of the evil, fallen angel Asmodeous.
Can Cimree and Azra bring light to the darkness lurking in the city, or will Trinati fulfill her desire to become the Tyrant Queen and doom them all?
This series is taking off and it’s worth the ride.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Angel Sworn are used to being in charge and the archangel Trinati is especially determined to take control. Cimree has her own doubts about her ability to lead and begins to defer to Trinati. Although Azra warns the group about the nearby fortress of Ecbatana’s history of shooting the Angel Sworn, surely they should at least warn the city about the monsters on the loose.
They arrive in Ecbatana to welcoming arms and finely appointed living quarters. The Angel Sworn are now highly regarded and treated like royalty and they have arrived just in time to participate in the city’s traditional choosing of the Tyrant Queen. Egos stroked, the group let’s its guard down, but all that glitters is not gold and under the glamour are snake pits, deadly fruits and a lychgate harboring a revenant of the evil, fallen angel Asmodeous.
Can Cimree and Azra bring light to the darkness lurking in the city, or will Trinati fulfill her desire to become the Tyrant Queen and doom them all?
This series is taking off and it’s worth the ride.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2025
This book was very different from what I expected. It follows its predecessor as a continuation of the fall and flight of the Angel Sworn from Clairvaux. The group comes upon a city, Ecbatana, that could be salvation for them or a curse. The refugees enter the city and must decide if it is providence or misfortune.
I really enjoyed the discovery and the path our refugees take through this book. I felt the actions of the characters fit with how people in this situation would react. After having run for their lives, they are given a chance at peace and safety, even if some are wary. I too might have wanted to settle down and be at peace for a time. Of course, since this is a fantasy book, nothing too perfect can actually be perfect.
The plot of the story was well paced and felt like we were watching our characters discover the true nature of Ecbatana. Our characters are tested and some pass the test, while others tragically fail.
The story of the protagonist, Cimree, is a story that you have heard before, but you won’t realize it until the end. As the story begins, she is the leader of the refugees, but that role is quickly challenged. As the story progresses, we learn more about her and her motivations. Jeff Wheeler then takes the story we all know and puts a huge twist on it. I was so shocked I had to go back and reread parts to make sure that I had understood it correctly.
I really enjoyed this book and was disappointed when it ended and even more disappointed that I have to wait for book 3! It was well worth the read and I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Jeff Wheeler or a fan of clean fantasy books.
I really enjoyed the discovery and the path our refugees take through this book. I felt the actions of the characters fit with how people in this situation would react. After having run for their lives, they are given a chance at peace and safety, even if some are wary. I too might have wanted to settle down and be at peace for a time. Of course, since this is a fantasy book, nothing too perfect can actually be perfect.
The plot of the story was well paced and felt like we were watching our characters discover the true nature of Ecbatana. Our characters are tested and some pass the test, while others tragically fail.
The story of the protagonist, Cimree, is a story that you have heard before, but you won’t realize it until the end. As the story begins, she is the leader of the refugees, but that role is quickly challenged. As the story progresses, we learn more about her and her motivations. Jeff Wheeler then takes the story we all know and puts a huge twist on it. I was so shocked I had to go back and reread parts to make sure that I had understood it correctly.
I really enjoyed this book and was disappointed when it ended and even more disappointed that I have to wait for book 3! It was well worth the read and I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of Jeff Wheeler or a fan of clean fantasy books.
November 9, 2025
This book took me a little while to get back into the world and characters. Jeff Wheeler writes quickly, so it hasn't been too long since the last Angel Sworn book. (You have to read #1 first, or you will be hopelessly lost.) Cimree and Azra, along with Trinati, are leading the survivors of Clairvaux to what they hope will be safety. As in book 1, there is tension between Cimree and Trinati as they are both struggling with leadership of the group. A little girl that appears out of nowhere, and has an air of mystery about her. There's a connection between Cimree and Azra, but is it real? Or is it because of the medallions that they both wear?
A leadership decision leads the group into danger in the city of Ecbatana, where the evil Roque, and the revenent king he serves, await. Every so often, the king marries a "Tyrant Queen" who rules the city for a period of time, having whatever her heart desires. Unfortunately, nothing comes free, and there is always a price to be paid.
As always, the world building, the magic, and the connections between worlds in his other books are fantastic. I'm definitely going to have to go reread several of Wheeler's series again to see where all the "Easter eggs" fit in. This world is based on Bible stories, as well as some Christian myths, with a dash of Greek mythology thrown in on top. The twist at the end leaves me wishing that the next book were already published!
P.S. I hate snakes.
A leadership decision leads the group into danger in the city of Ecbatana, where the evil Roque, and the revenent king he serves, await. Every so often, the king marries a "Tyrant Queen" who rules the city for a period of time, having whatever her heart desires. Unfortunately, nothing comes free, and there is always a price to be paid.
As always, the world building, the magic, and the connections between worlds in his other books are fantastic. I'm definitely going to have to go reread several of Wheeler's series again to see where all the "Easter eggs" fit in. This world is based on Bible stories, as well as some Christian myths, with a dash of Greek mythology thrown in on top. The twist at the end leaves me wishing that the next book were already published!
P.S. I hate snakes.
November 11, 2025
WOW! I did not expect what happened in this book. While I liked the first book, I struggled with some of the story elements. Tyrant Queen completely won me over with its story development. This is where the series found its soul and revealed the true conflict that felt lacking before. I loved this book.
The rag-tag group of refugees from fallen Clairvaux arrives at the ancient fortress of Ecbatana, with its multi-colored walls, vibrant bazaars, and powerful sorcerers. But Ecbatana has a dangerous tradition—it is periodically ruled by a tyrant queen who wields absolute power. As the group debates whether to seek shelter here or continue fleeing from the monsters pursuing them, they discover secrets that may reveal the true nature of their enemies.
The character development in this book was exceptionally well done. You truly start to care about Cimree and Azra as they navigate impossible choices. Cimree, the inexperienced leader, is tested in ways she cannot imagine, and watching her growth was compelling.
There were some shocking moments I didn’t see coming that I will not spoil. The ending didn’t wrap everything up in a neat bow, and it left me a little salty—but that’s exactly why I liked it so much. Some may not appreciate this approach, but for me, it made the story feel real and earned.
I look forward to the next book. Jeff Wheeler has truly hit his stride with this installment.
The rag-tag group of refugees from fallen Clairvaux arrives at the ancient fortress of Ecbatana, with its multi-colored walls, vibrant bazaars, and powerful sorcerers. But Ecbatana has a dangerous tradition—it is periodically ruled by a tyrant queen who wields absolute power. As the group debates whether to seek shelter here or continue fleeing from the monsters pursuing them, they discover secrets that may reveal the true nature of their enemies.
The character development in this book was exceptionally well done. You truly start to care about Cimree and Azra as they navigate impossible choices. Cimree, the inexperienced leader, is tested in ways she cannot imagine, and watching her growth was compelling.
There were some shocking moments I didn’t see coming that I will not spoil. The ending didn’t wrap everything up in a neat bow, and it left me a little salty—but that’s exactly why I liked it so much. Some may not appreciate this approach, but for me, it made the story feel real and earned.
I look forward to the next book. Jeff Wheeler has truly hit his stride with this installment.
October 20, 2025
Jeff Wheeler does it again. "Tyrant Queen" takes the Angel Sworn saga to new heights of tension and emotion. The character development is exceptional, especially as we see Cimree’s growth under the shadow of the Queen Mother’s secret ambitions. Wheeler’s world feels alive and layered, and by the time the final chapters arrive, you realize just how much every earlier choice mattered.
There’s one pivotal decision early on that shifts the entire story’s direction. It feels almost surprising. One of those “wait, really?” moments, because so many other paths seemed possible. Yet, in hindsight, it’s the decision that defines the novel’s core conflict: the emerging leadership struggle between the novice Cimree and the Queen Mother’s favored Trinati. That single moment becomes the spark that divides the Angel Sworn and sets them on a collision course with an unknown, lurking evil.
And then comes the ending. Without spoilers - what a twist! Wheeler’s timing and emotional precision land perfectly. The final revelation redefines everything you thought you understood about loyalty, power, and destiny.
A gripping, imaginative continuation of the series. Tyrant Queen will leave you stunned, satisfied, and impatient for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There’s one pivotal decision early on that shifts the entire story’s direction. It feels almost surprising. One of those “wait, really?” moments, because so many other paths seemed possible. Yet, in hindsight, it’s the decision that defines the novel’s core conflict: the emerging leadership struggle between the novice Cimree and the Queen Mother’s favored Trinati. That single moment becomes the spark that divides the Angel Sworn and sets them on a collision course with an unknown, lurking evil.
And then comes the ending. Without spoilers - what a twist! Wheeler’s timing and emotional precision land perfectly. The final revelation redefines everything you thought you understood about loyalty, power, and destiny.
A gripping, imaginative continuation of the series. Tyrant Queen will leave you stunned, satisfied, and impatient for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 11, 2025
Jeff Wheeler’s Tyrant Queen begins with a quiet intensity that gradually unfolds into something much more layered and urgent. At first, I found the pace deliberate, but as the story deepened, it revealed an intricate web of myth, faith, and the nature of creation itself. Wheeler continues to excel at building worlds that feel ancient and alive, rooted in moral and metaphysical questions that linger long after the final page.
One of my favorite aspects of this installment is how he reframes familiar myths through unexpected lenses. Instead of relying on the old binaries of human versus monster, he invites readers to question what makes something truly alive, and who gets to decide. The introduction of the Golem adds both emotional weight and philosophical complexity, and the evolving relationships among the characters probe ideas of power, autonomy, and the cost of transformation.
Wheeler’s writing has always balanced accessibility with depth, and Tyrant Queen is no exception. It’s a story about identity and myth-making, about the danger of inherited truths, and about finding grace in the midst of change. The final chapters left me both unsettled and moved, eager for what comes next in the Angel Sworn series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One of my favorite aspects of this installment is how he reframes familiar myths through unexpected lenses. Instead of relying on the old binaries of human versus monster, he invites readers to question what makes something truly alive, and who gets to decide. The introduction of the Golem adds both emotional weight and philosophical complexity, and the evolving relationships among the characters probe ideas of power, autonomy, and the cost of transformation.
Wheeler’s writing has always balanced accessibility with depth, and Tyrant Queen is no exception. It’s a story about identity and myth-making, about the danger of inherited truths, and about finding grace in the midst of change. The final chapters left me both unsettled and moved, eager for what comes next in the Angel Sworn series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2025
Angel Sworn Cimree finds herself tested as the new leader. They are traveling to Tirich Mir, suggested by her protector, Azra, to be safe from the monsters that hunt them. Trinati pressures them to go to Ecbatana for their riches and supplies, and Cimree considers and relents. Azra says it’s an evil place that they should avoid, especially due to their practice of choosing a Tyrant Queen. Cimree is a kind, thoughtful person who doesn’t remember her past. She’s not confident enough to make quick, solid decisions and stick to them, especially around forceful people. It makes other doubt her leadership. I can relate to this in my life, as can many people, making her a likeable character with realistic emotions. Some other characters are less complex, such as Trinati’s driving force personality, until something makes them reflect and change. Including an innocent, regular family and a few children in the story help to keep it down to earth, knowing what’s at stake for their world. Wheeler created rich descriptions of the Ecbatana culture. The events and people of Ecbatana kept me guessing and waiting in suspense. Who did they want for the Tyrant Queen and why? Will the monsters attack? Where do they come from? It’s a weaving tale of wonder and woe, cunning and courage. I eagerly anticipate book 3.
November 14, 2025
The story of Cimree, Azra, and the Angel Sworn continues and we get to learn more about Cimree's backstory and past interactions with the Queen Mother. When I first saw the title and cover for Queen Mother (book 1), I had no idea what to expect or how (if at all) it would relate to Jeff's other series.
Jeff is such a wonderful world builder and I am always so amazed at how well he integrates magical objects and magic/belief systems, mystical/ hallowed locations, and even creatures throughout his different worlds! **SPOILER ALERT** In this series, the hetaera, kishion, the gallows tree and its fruits, tay al ard, tanaquil amulet, and the fear liath are featured!
I'm not a romance reader, but I do enjoy how tasteful Jeff is with his portrayals of romance and I think Cimree and Azra's connection, which could be considered complicated because of the amulet, is sweet. There are concubines and scenes where women are disrespected and objectified by men, however I believe that they speak to the society in which the story place, not necessarily the author's belief/ practices.
I also loved the Medusa element added in!
The pace of this story enjoyable. I'm sure if I could have easily read it in a day or two if I had the time to do so! As always, I can't wait for the next book!
Jeff is such a wonderful world builder and I am always so amazed at how well he integrates magical objects and magic/belief systems, mystical/ hallowed locations, and even creatures throughout his different worlds! **SPOILER ALERT** In this series, the hetaera, kishion, the gallows tree and its fruits, tay al ard, tanaquil amulet, and the fear liath are featured!
I'm not a romance reader, but I do enjoy how tasteful Jeff is with his portrayals of romance and I think Cimree and Azra's connection, which could be considered complicated because of the amulet, is sweet. There are concubines and scenes where women are disrespected and objectified by men, however I believe that they speak to the society in which the story place, not necessarily the author's belief/ practices.
I also loved the Medusa element added in!
The pace of this story enjoyable. I'm sure if I could have easily read it in a day or two if I had the time to do so! As always, I can't wait for the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2026
The second book in Jeff Wheeler's newest series, Tyrant Queen had my jaw dropping at many points throughout the book. Once it ended my first thought was, "No! I need the next one now!" Wheeler yet again masterfully crafts a world mixed with myth, religion, fantasy and wonderful characters to create an awe-inspiring story that captivates you from the first sentence to the last.
Cimree, Azra, and the rest of their party face further challenges in the second book of the Angel Sworn series as they make their way to safety in the Tirich Mir mountains. I was pulled in by the characters' growth and development, their stumbles and triumphs. Even the characters who usually irritate me, Trinati is a top one, had some incredible character growth. My heart especially went out to Cimree who seems to be ever more encumbered with burdens. However, it did warm my heart that she has love and support from Azra and many of the party.
I am eager to read Dark Queen, as I want to see what happens next. If you haven't read any of Jeff Wheeler's books yet, I highly recommend them. Pick up Queen Mother to get started on this amazing series, or book one from any of his other incredible series.
Thank you Oliver Heber Books and Jeff Wheeler for the opportunity to read the ARC. My reviews are my honest opinions of what I have read.
Cimree, Azra, and the rest of their party face further challenges in the second book of the Angel Sworn series as they make their way to safety in the Tirich Mir mountains. I was pulled in by the characters' growth and development, their stumbles and triumphs. Even the characters who usually irritate me, Trinati is a top one, had some incredible character growth. My heart especially went out to Cimree who seems to be ever more encumbered with burdens. However, it did warm my heart that she has love and support from Azra and many of the party.
I am eager to read Dark Queen, as I want to see what happens next. If you haven't read any of Jeff Wheeler's books yet, I highly recommend them. Pick up Queen Mother to get started on this amazing series, or book one from any of his other incredible series.
Thank you Oliver Heber Books and Jeff Wheeler for the opportunity to read the ARC. My reviews are my honest opinions of what I have read.
November 11, 2025
Tyrant Queen is a great sequel to Queen Mother. I had no idea what to expect from this book, knowing that the characters were embarking on a long journey at the end of Queen Mother. This novel shows a completely different part of their world, a busy mercantile city which is the opposite of Clairvaux in so many ways. It presents many different kinds of danger.
One of the things I loved about the first book was Cimree’s growth and this continues in this book. She has the huge responsibility of leading their group and she is finding her own style of leadership.
I really liked seeing the way Cimree and Azra’s relationship continues to develop. They are forced into a closer bond by their situation, creating both immense trust and awkward difficulties. Also, Azra can be really annoying when he wants to be!
Like in Queen Mother, this book contains quotes about the origin legends of the world. These quotes provide a slightly different perspective from the quotes in Queen Mother. I feel that they really flesh out the story, giving insights into their history.
This book contained more hints about the author’s other series which was great fun, seeing how all his worlds connect to each other. However, you don’t need to have read any other series to enjoy Angel Sworn.
One of the things I loved about the first book was Cimree’s growth and this continues in this book. She has the huge responsibility of leading their group and she is finding her own style of leadership.
I really liked seeing the way Cimree and Azra’s relationship continues to develop. They are forced into a closer bond by their situation, creating both immense trust and awkward difficulties. Also, Azra can be really annoying when he wants to be!
Like in Queen Mother, this book contains quotes about the origin legends of the world. These quotes provide a slightly different perspective from the quotes in Queen Mother. I feel that they really flesh out the story, giving insights into their history.
This book contained more hints about the author’s other series which was great fun, seeing how all his worlds connect to each other. However, you don’t need to have read any other series to enjoy Angel Sworn.
November 11, 2025
Jeff Wheeler's 'Queen Mother' was a great introduction to a new storyline that still has some connections that readers of the 'Muirwood' series will recognize. However as the characters of that series leave their home which has been taken over by monsters, they come to a large city that seems to offer shelter and sanctuary. However, things are not as they seem. CImree and Azra grow closer together while they are often apart. Cimree's power begins to grow stronger as she learns more about herself. However, the monsters they left behind are still coming.
Fans of Wheeler's other series will enjoy this novel as they wonder how they connections to his other worlds will play out. For those who find the Angel Sworn series their first introduction to Wheeler will also enjoy the story. Wheeler once again continues his mastery of character development which makes the readers really care about the the protagonists. His ability to weave history, mythology, and fantasy together creates believable worlds that are easy to visualize in one's mind. I can't wait to read the third and final entry into the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fans of Wheeler's other series will enjoy this novel as they wonder how they connections to his other worlds will play out. For those who find the Angel Sworn series their first introduction to Wheeler will also enjoy the story. Wheeler once again continues his mastery of character development which makes the readers really care about the the protagonists. His ability to weave history, mythology, and fantasy together creates believable worlds that are easy to visualize in one's mind. I can't wait to read the third and final entry into the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2025
Jeff Wheeler’s Tyrant Queen continues the Angel Sworn series with the same storytelling and immersive world-building that made the first book so easy to sink into. This second installment widens the lens in all the right ways, but still keeps the focus tight on the characters whose journeys carry the emotional weight of the story.
The pacing feels sharp and intentional. Jeff Wheeler has a talent for balancing large scale danger with intimate, character centered tension, and this book showcases that again. The stakes feel genuinely high, and Jeff Wheeler isn’t afraid to put his characters through difficult trials that force them to grow and adapt.
One thing I’ve always loved about Jeff Wheeler’s work is how he creates magic systems that feel distinct from series to series while also managing to layer new depth into them as each story progresses. Tyrant Queen adds new information to how this world operates, and I appreciate how those details unfold naturally instead of feeling dumped on the reader. As with all his books, his writing is deep and layered, while also being accessible and engaging.
Every time I finish one of his books, I wonder how he’s going to top it. And yet somehow, he does. Tyrant Queen is no exception and I highly recommend it (after reading book 1)!
The pacing feels sharp and intentional. Jeff Wheeler has a talent for balancing large scale danger with intimate, character centered tension, and this book showcases that again. The stakes feel genuinely high, and Jeff Wheeler isn’t afraid to put his characters through difficult trials that force them to grow and adapt.
One thing I’ve always loved about Jeff Wheeler’s work is how he creates magic systems that feel distinct from series to series while also managing to layer new depth into them as each story progresses. Tyrant Queen adds new information to how this world operates, and I appreciate how those details unfold naturally instead of feeling dumped on the reader. As with all his books, his writing is deep and layered, while also being accessible and engaging.
Every time I finish one of his books, I wonder how he’s going to top it. And yet somehow, he does. Tyrant Queen is no exception and I highly recommend it (after reading book 1)!
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