If you really liked this book, I would warn against reading this review, honestly don't want to be mean..but. Spoilers.
2.5 if I am honest.
Mam, what was that? This book was so brutally dragged out and somehow rushed at the same time. The amount of added detail and indecision was apparent from so early on that this was just hard to enjoy. I hate being mean in reviews especially with a series I generally liked but I was so disappointed by this ending and all the arc reviews being 5? I get that Arc reviews are for hype but come on.
let's just break down my thoughts so I don't ramble.
1) She is in captivity with the DF until almost I think 50 percent of the book. So in your final book your main characters are apart for almost half if not more. We get no real relationship building, we get no forward progress on her actually being a badass queen we just get this horribly abusive story line where she is alone and broken. We also get so much added information and plot on the ancients and past lives that just takes over this book that could have been cool if it wasn't the only thing we really get. Then after doing that for 50 percent, we get some sex scenes, some jumbled scenes of conversation where we can ask why are there 5 guys? because they all take on the same tone and I feel the "said-insert name" could've been any of them. They don't acknowledge her trauma, she doesn't talk about what happened and instead of becoming a queen we just see the ancients snap into place without her moving forward as a character.
2) Trent. Now I fall in the camp of always wanting a villain redemption arc, but I found myself asking Why do we care? We barely get to have a flushed out relationship with the other 5, then we add 4 conversations with Torren, and we are supposed to either route for the guy or hope he dies? Did we need the extra layers? He kind of fell flat as the big bad when we made all of his actions somehow excusable? This whole plot seemed rushed and not as flushed out which became incredibly evident with the alternative epilogues. Again if a villain is a love interest I want them to be reformed but I feel like the added epilogues much like Trent fell flat. We rush the ending where he lives, and we jump into them having sex pretty quickly after the ceremony with no groveling which is a huge part in the redemption of a villain. The grovel is the point. And if he was into Adelaide and it was a formative thing from his past why would that not be included in the novella? If he had this crush and had all these emotions and it made him who he is why did we not even get a glimpse? Especially if the novella had to be read before this book?
So overall, I think this should have been split in two books. The first being the captivity, her being found and finding peace after torture with her faction, end on the cliffhanger that Trent is her mate and the only one that can get Rue back and allow the book to naturally progress. Let her feel the trauma and rebuild otherwise what was the point. Shock value? She doesn't even mention Anything she went through to her mates and hops right back into life. Allow the character development because that's the point of these books! Then end the series with freeing Trent from his curse, having some more battles with the DF, and ending the reign of those kept in power who corrupted it. Otherwise why have all these super in depth plots? They did nothing to get Rue, shit that could have been an entire part of a final book. And we would have Trent actually grovel and gain her trust then have a heart felt ceremony when everyone earned it. We could see deeper connection within her faction and see Jet actually being a character.
Alrighty. well that's my Ted talk I guess. I may be too annoyed but I just wanted this to go differently after getting invested in this series and doing the side quest of the novella. I honestly thought this had massive potential and wanted it to go so different.
As the final part in the series I wanted to really love this book, but it left a lot of things out. We never find out how the council were defeated (only mentioned that they were); they battle an ancient creature but never find out what it is; draxons essentially pledge allegiance to FMC but only seen once; what certain names actually meant (mentions that FMC has to find out what it means but never does); and there’s plenty of other things that happen either suddenly or are never really resolved. It was revealed towards the end why they stopped getting powers and I understood that but parts of why it occurred seemed to be left out (such as why a sacrifice was actually needed originally). There is much more I could probably say about the book, but ultimately it was good just wasn’t for me.
Final book in this series. Spoilers: Hard to review. The plot is interesting, but the presentation misses depth. The characters are never really developed, but remain superficial, juvenile and basic. The plot twists in this book needed more preparation in the previous volumes and appear to pop up out of nowhere in this final book. The villains are just evil, there's no reason given for their motives. The resolution of the villains was totally unsatisfying; they deserved a more in depth end. I do admire the author's writing and correct grammar and definitely encourage her to continue.
Trent. Honestly, we know next to nothing about him. Everything is from someone else’s POV. It would’ve been nice to possibly get a Novela on him to explain what he went through as a child and how he got to where he got when we met him.
Especially with the fact that he was the man with two faces. The same thing being said about him could be said about the alternate ending that we got. I very much enjoyed it, but I wish we had gotten more from it. Since he had a lot to do to a tone for everything he put everyone through, especially her family and the rest of their people. To have that alternate ending was nice, but it seemed a little unattainable because of everything that he had done.
As much as I enjoy the alternate ending, I think it would’ve made more sense for it to be a reunion when her and the rest of her men’s lives were out of this world. If that makes sense.
I also wish we got more into a future and even possibly a set up for the next series if it’s going to be in the same world.
I absolutely loved this series. I just wish there was more. I feel like a lot of character development and background information was needed for most people and a lot more explanations.
I also feel like the whole queen thing should’ve been better described than snippets and just one scene where we see what happened to start the curse but that’s about it. I feel like that should’ve gone into more depth as well.
I loved Reverie and her men. It was amazing to see reunions and the ending was bittersweet.
I just feel as though there’s a lot of unanswered questions and things that could’ve been explained more and pieces of the puzzle that just don’t quite fit
But I do recommend the series to anybody that wants to read it and I hope that we get more from these particular characters, as well as getting the unanswered questions answered and the little threads that are left get solved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was reading through the series getting ready for Exitus release, and was smacked in the noggin by an opportunity to join the arc team. I have been obsessed with this series since Frankie released Exordium. And the progression of the story was spot on. You know how you read a series with a HUGE plot that needs a resolution? And finally the last book is released and you’re ready, got your snack and cozy socks. As you dive into the last part of the story it drags on and finally, at the last chapter all the plots are resolved. 😖 Yeah, so frustrating. Frankie paced this last book (well all of them imo) so well, nothing was rushed, there is plenty of spicy time, because you KNOW her Faction is going to find her, and they went all in on reminding her who they belonged to! But wait… there’s more!!! A twist in the plot!! 😊 well, a couple twists, but one for sure I didn’t see coming and one I wasn’t sure would happen even though I prayed to little baby Jesus it did!! I’m honestly at a loss for words, this series has felt like an old friend, one I can rely on at any time, and I’m not ready for it to be over. If you’ve been reading this series or have waited till it was completed, let me tell you to be sure to settle in, this is a crazy trip through Aurathia. All will be revealed! Ok, I’m going to go back and read it again! 🥰 Happy Reading Friends.
I started Exitus because I really enjoyed the first two books in the series. While I didn’t dislike this installment, it ultimately felt weaker compared to its predecessors.
The main issue for me was pacing. In the earlier books, the story unfolded with layers and buildup. In Exitus, many major developments came together quickly near the end, making the resolution feel rushed and slightly overwhelming. Important moments and twists — especially regarding the FMC’s identity and faction — were introduced late and didn’t have as much time to be explored as they deserved.
That said, there were aspects I genuinely appreciated. The fantasy elements were engaging, and I liked the gradual uncovering of who the FMC truly was. I also liked her personal growth — watching her move from a life of relative ease to one where she had to overcome struggled and earned strength felt intentional and well done.
Overall, I’d rate the series around a 3.5, with this final book being what brings the score down. If you enjoy fast-paced fantasy, indie-author vibes, and reading more for atmosphere than tight narrative structure, this book may land better for you!
A wonderful way to end the year and series. I highly recommend this whole series. I found it different than other things I read and I appreciate that.
Frankie’s writing is modern and unafraid.
This final book helped answer questions.
You appreciate the love and loyalty of the faction. It’s not heavy on spice and more heavy on the plot which I love. I wouldn’t say it was heavy on romance - like they don’t go on dates or have a lot of one on one time. But it’s never doubted how much they love each other. These men and Reverie love out loud and will burn the world down for each other - literally lol. I
I also loved the twist at the end where you got to decide how you wanted it to end.
So good. I really wanted more and sad to say goodbye. Maybe Chloe next???
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Very enjoyable wrap up to this series. I hope to see more RH from this author. It was cool to see actual RH too where the fmc was the center no mm the guys focus on there girl only. Yeah mm is good but it’s a rare gem these days to find straight up rh. I also liked that it was multiple POV. I liked the double ending,the second one was a bit fanciful but I gotta admit I liked it better lol I like seeing the villain get his redemption but the other evil 2 got offed still. I never like a harem member being unalived…it’s not a quality I look for,it will never make my reread list and if you’re a repeat 0ff3nder I won’t read your work anymore. This I did enjoy great characters,great storyline & world building.
🌶️🌶️🌶️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 This was a fun series, not blow-my-socks-off amazing. It’s fairly formulaic, I’m just thankful there’s minimal angst and/or bullying and/or “I must hide my feelings for so and so because they make me weak blah blah”. The romantic relationships were all pretty easy going , not very intense. The adventure was fun and different, very creative. The bad guys were more physical torture and not mental/emotional torture. The only scene that was out of the left field was in a flash back between Nathan and Reverie, where he SA her ( can’t remember what book). The action fits his character in the series but that was kinda dark. More dubious consent I guess. I feel lukewarm after reading this series, no regrets though.
What an exhilarating conclusion to an incredible first series by Frankie James! I thoroughly enjoyed this series from start to finish. The protagonist’s ability to be both vulnerable and no-nonsense was truly remarkable. Throughout the entire series, the male leads remained authentic and didn’t feel generic, which is a common issue in some series. The humor during the darker moments was also exceptional. Overall, this was a fantastic conclusion to an amazing series that leaves me with a sense of hope that we’ll revisit this realm in the future!
Honestly, I'm not certain I have the words for this series. This completed series is a debut for Frankie James. It is AMAZING! The world building, the characters, the families, the mystery, the intrigue, the conflict in the worlds. All of it.... just AMAZING! The final book wrapped it all up and the conclusion was fabulous. I don't want to share any spoilers...but there is a surprise at the end that I made my heart so darn happy! Seriously, dive in and give this new author some love. The series is available on KU, but honestly, I think you're going to want to have them in your library for future re-reads. I know I did.
Wow! I can’t believe this incredible series has come to an end. What an absolute wild ride.
First, a huge thank you to @frankiejamesauthor for letting me be part of the ARC team. It was truly an honor and I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next.
It’s so hard to review this without giving anything away. Exitus picks up immediately after the ending of book two, 𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓. Reverie has been taken and the stakes are higher than ever. While she’s fighting for her life and clawing her way back to her faction, her faction, best friend, and parents are doing the same for her. All I’ll say is that there were so many plot twists I never saw coming. And that alternate ending? It made my heart so happy. Also, the side characters deserve their own moment. Chloe is bestie of the year. Pantar, her bonded Fellat is fiercely loyal, as devoted as any companion could be. Reverie’s parents? EVERYTHING. The kind of love and support every girl needs in her life.
If you love why choose romances with a badass FMC, possessive and unhinged men, and a survival game, gladiator style storyline, then this series is an absolute must read. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
** As you can probably tell, I adore all of them but Nathan has my heart. He’ll always be my baby. 💕
This was an epic end to this story. I am so glad I gave this newer author a chance when I downloaded the first book. Reverie's story drew me in from the first and I loved every one of the books in the series. No spoilers in this review. Just know, if you are a fan of Tessa Hale, KF Breene, Ivy Asher and so many other wonderful authors, you'll love Frankie James too.
I am so sad to see this series end. But, man what a great series it is. Reverie and her Faction face many enemies and challenges in Exitus. This book will make you have anxiety, cry, laugh, scream WTF at your phone.
Exitus is a multiple POV, fast paced page turner.
It amazes me that this is Ms. James debut series. Well done ma’am.
Great finally for the series. the story and world building is awesome.
it's like the other books in the series, you start and can't stop until you finish. Reverie and ALL her psychos are great. it's unhinged, cute, loveable and great! Reverie stays the badass and doesn't waver. her men always right at her back! fantastic!
I absolutely love this series. Frankie James you are truly amazing. I love that you gave us an alternate ending. You have knocked it out of the park once again. Reverie is my favorite fmc and her men 🔥🥵. I cant wait to see what Frankie has in store for us next!
I loved this series so much! It has definitely become one of my favorites! It was written so well, and had a great plot, with spice and world building. I can’t wait to see what else Frankie writes.
Seriously a great end to the series. Thank you for the alternate ending (which I loved btw). I chose the second ending… The characters were believable and lovable, who wouldn’t want several protective men ready to burn the world down to protect their woman.
This is most definitely a must read from beginning to end. I love it. I cannot wait for her to write in this world Some more this book was definitely will not disappoint.
Well, this book is one wild ride! So fast-paced, I loved every minute of it! Frankie James writes unhinged men so well that the twins and Nathan are comedic gold. I'm sad this series is now over. it's one to add to my list of favourites.