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Huntress Rising
I was unclaimed, unwanted, and left to survive in a city that never let me forget I didn’t belong.
I built a life anyway—with a few loyal friends, all of them claimed by their divine parents, except for a young boy I took under my protection. But like me, he was cursed.
To keep him safe, I walked away from the only home I’d ever known and stepped into the human world, hoping we could finally live without fear. That illusion didn’t last long.
We were found. Dragged back. And now Zeus is forcing us into deadly trials like we’re entertainment for the gods.
Back in the city that nearly broke me, I’m trying to find my footing again. Only this time, I’m not alone. There’s Zephyros, all quiet power and slow-burning intensity. Kairos, with a reckless grin and something darker simmering underneath. And Bastian—sharp, controlled, and far too good at reading every crack in my armor.
They shouldn't matter. I should focus on survival. But every stolen moment, every lingering glance, pulls me deeper into something I don’t have the luxury to want.
Because my family’s freedom is still at stake. The gods are watching.
And in this game, desire might be the most dangerous trial of all.
I built a life anyway—with a few loyal friends, all of them claimed by their divine parents, except for a young boy I took under my protection. But like me, he was cursed.
To keep him safe, I walked away from the only home I’d ever known and stepped into the human world, hoping we could finally live without fear. That illusion didn’t last long.
We were found. Dragged back. And now Zeus is forcing us into deadly trials like we’re entertainment for the gods.
Back in the city that nearly broke me, I’m trying to find my footing again. Only this time, I’m not alone. There’s Zephyros, all quiet power and slow-burning intensity. Kairos, with a reckless grin and something darker simmering underneath. And Bastian—sharp, controlled, and far too good at reading every crack in my armor.
They shouldn't matter. I should focus on survival. But every stolen moment, every lingering glance, pulls me deeper into something I don’t have the luxury to want.
Because my family’s freedom is still at stake. The gods are watching.
And in this game, desire might be the most dangerous trial of all.
467 pages, Paperback
Published January 13, 2026
7 people want to read
About the author
Megan Franey
6 books12 followersMegan M. Franey is a small-town Midwest girl with a big imagination and an even bigger love for romantasy. When she’s not traveling with her husband and rescue pups, she’s usually buried in a book—or mentally rewriting one, likely wrapped in yet another blanket she didn’t need and sipping from a water bottle she already owns in three colors.
Her stories blend epic fantasy with real, raw emotion, creating worlds that feel both magical and deeply human. Megan believes in chosen family, hard-earned hope, and love that refuses to be simple. She’s always dreaming up her next story… usually when she’s supposed to be doing something else.
Her stories blend epic fantasy with real, raw emotion, creating worlds that feel both magical and deeply human. Megan believes in chosen family, hard-earned hope, and love that refuses to be simple. She’s always dreaming up her next story… usually when she’s supposed to be doing something else.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 stars from me🖤
First of all, I'm so thankful to be an ARC reader for this book. It was so immersive and I adored it. Greek mythology has always been an interest of mine and Megan incorporated into this book splendidly. I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere she set, the imagery she brought to life describing each magical element. She wrote badass female characters that I really resonated with, not to mention the MMCs being great too. Bastian, Zephyros and Khairos are all so different, not just with their lineage and magical powers - but with their fire, values and mannerisms. They are each needed in different ways for our FMC. This was a slow burn and not overly spicy - probably one open door scene, so it was perfect for those who like their plot with a little spice. The way the book ends, I was in awe of the plot and revelations. Its set up to have another book(s) which, I NEED to see what transpires next. Its going to a whirlwind for sure. Thank you again, Megan, for this novel. My only critic would be some of the repetition, whether it be plotlines that were retold or what the love interests were saying and the MMCs while passionate, were lacking in a little conviction - But as this is the first book in a series, I am excited to see how the author builds upon this.
But I do loove Bastian✨️
First of all, I'm so thankful to be an ARC reader for this book. It was so immersive and I adored it. Greek mythology has always been an interest of mine and Megan incorporated into this book splendidly. I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere she set, the imagery she brought to life describing each magical element. She wrote badass female characters that I really resonated with, not to mention the MMCs being great too. Bastian, Zephyros and Khairos are all so different, not just with their lineage and magical powers - but with their fire, values and mannerisms. They are each needed in different ways for our FMC. This was a slow burn and not overly spicy - probably one open door scene, so it was perfect for those who like their plot with a little spice. The way the book ends, I was in awe of the plot and revelations. Its set up to have another book(s) which, I NEED to see what transpires next. Its going to a whirlwind for sure. Thank you again, Megan, for this novel. My only critic would be some of the repetition, whether it be plotlines that were retold or what the love interests were saying and the MMCs while passionate, were lacking in a little conviction - But as this is the first book in a series, I am excited to see how the author builds upon this.
But I do loove Bastian✨️
January 4, 2026
This was an extremely well written fantasy that pulls you in and doesn’t let you go. The way it also seamlessly blended in Greek mythology to also hooked me. Great story telling, well developed characters kept me hooked til the very end.
January 15, 2026
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. Huntress Rising was an enjoyable read, though it didn’t quite pull me in enough to finish in one sitting. I loved the strong Greek mythology which kept me coming back for more. There was some noticeable repetition in the early chapters, but beyond that, I had no major complaints. Overall, it was a solid read, and I’m looking forward to the next book.
December 21, 2025
Thank you to the author/publisher for the advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in a series, and it was an engaging start with a lot of fun ideas. From my POV, the spice level is quite low (🌶️ 1/5): there is only one explicit scene, and while it’s explicit, it’s nothing particularly wild, especially for readers who are used to higher levels of spice.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is the concept itself. The blend of Greek mythology with urban fantasy works really well, especially the idea of the gods having demigod children in the modern world, claiming them and granting powers. It’s a playful, imaginative setup that immediately drew me in. I also really enjoyed Amalia as a character. She feels like a very believable teenager. Her need to prove herself, paired with her love for her god, her sister, and her family, made her come across as enthusiastic, loyal, and genuinely kind-hearted. Even small details, like modern elements (UNO cards, Euros) existing in this mythological world, initially surprised me, but I eventually leaned into it and enjoyed the feeling of the story unfolding in real time.
That said, there were a few aspects that didn’t fully work for me. The writing style felt quite repetitive at times. Events would happen, and then in the following chapter I’d read the same information again as Emery retold it to someone else. I also struggled a bit with the love interests (Bastian, Kairos, and Zephyros). They often came across as standoffish, and whenever Emery voiced concerns or sensed that something wasn’t right, their responses felt dismissive or driven by their own agendas rather than genuine reassurance or care. I also think the book could have benefited from some trimming; cutting down on repeated scenes and overly detailed descriptions of places, sounds, and objects would have tightened the pacing without losing much of the story’s impact. Finally, Emery’s ongoing search for validation, from gods, parents, siblings, rivals, was very clear throughout the book. While I understand where she’s coming from emotionally, it felt a bit uncomfortable that the first moment she truly feels validated comes after her first sexual experience and being told “I love you” by all three love interests.
Despite these critiques, the book still includes many tropes I personally love: betrayal, reverse harem dynamics, trials, and powerful main characters trying to find their place in the world. The foundation of the story is strong, and I’m curious to see where the series goes next, especially given the rich mythological world of fickle gods that’s been set up here, and the exciting ending to the first book!
This is the first book in a series, and it was an engaging start with a lot of fun ideas. From my POV, the spice level is quite low (🌶️ 1/5): there is only one explicit scene, and while it’s explicit, it’s nothing particularly wild, especially for readers who are used to higher levels of spice.
One of the biggest strengths of this book is the concept itself. The blend of Greek mythology with urban fantasy works really well, especially the idea of the gods having demigod children in the modern world, claiming them and granting powers. It’s a playful, imaginative setup that immediately drew me in. I also really enjoyed Amalia as a character. She feels like a very believable teenager. Her need to prove herself, paired with her love for her god, her sister, and her family, made her come across as enthusiastic, loyal, and genuinely kind-hearted. Even small details, like modern elements (UNO cards, Euros) existing in this mythological world, initially surprised me, but I eventually leaned into it and enjoyed the feeling of the story unfolding in real time.
That said, there were a few aspects that didn’t fully work for me. The writing style felt quite repetitive at times. Events would happen, and then in the following chapter I’d read the same information again as Emery retold it to someone else. I also struggled a bit with the love interests (Bastian, Kairos, and Zephyros). They often came across as standoffish, and whenever Emery voiced concerns or sensed that something wasn’t right, their responses felt dismissive or driven by their own agendas rather than genuine reassurance or care. I also think the book could have benefited from some trimming; cutting down on repeated scenes and overly detailed descriptions of places, sounds, and objects would have tightened the pacing without losing much of the story’s impact. Finally, Emery’s ongoing search for validation, from gods, parents, siblings, rivals, was very clear throughout the book. While I understand where she’s coming from emotionally, it felt a bit uncomfortable that the first moment she truly feels validated comes after her first sexual experience and being told “I love you” by all three love interests.
Despite these critiques, the book still includes many tropes I personally love: betrayal, reverse harem dynamics, trials, and powerful main characters trying to find their place in the world. The foundation of the story is strong, and I’m curious to see where the series goes next, especially given the rich mythological world of fickle gods that’s been set up here, and the exciting ending to the first book!
January 14, 2026
Ok, please tell me there is a book?!
So good! I loved it!
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
So good! I loved it!
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
December 4, 2025
This was, without doubt, one of the best books I have ever read, and will ever read.
I have always loved Greek mythology, and as a fantasy reader, I know any book that combines the two is going to be fantastic. But the author put her own magnificent spin, and added more depth and personality to the gods than I’ve seen before. I loved her take on unclaimed demigods.
The characters could not have possibly been written better. All of them were amazing, but I have to say that Bastian was definitely my favorite throughout. The characters seemed incredibly real and interesting with genuine emotions. Their motivations made perfect sense and they all had defined personalities that made them all loveable (or hate-able, Daphne) in their own ways.
This was the spiciest book I ever read. That’s not necessarily a high bar, but many scenes made me both gasp and giggle. I couldn’t read them around others as they most likely would think I’m insane. And they fit in perfectly. Some books seem to throw them in there just to have them, but they all work and make sense.
Going further into romance, I loved the pet names all of the interests gave Emery. It was a small detail that really stood out to me and defined the characters in my mind. And the different ways they all showed their affection was brilliant. I’m running out of synonyms for fantastic, that’s how good this book was.
Another thing, the plot is so good. It made me need to know what happened. I didn’t want to set down the book and read it every single moment that I could.
If I could give this book more stars, I would give it a million more. It is just that amazing. I give my sincerest recommendation that you absolutely need to read this book. I really hope that there is a sequel.
I am so incredibly honoured and grateful that the author let me read this book early, and I have a feeling that I’ll still be buying a physical copy of the book when it comes out just so that I can own it. Hope you have a great rest of your day and a wonderful time reading.
I have always loved Greek mythology, and as a fantasy reader, I know any book that combines the two is going to be fantastic. But the author put her own magnificent spin, and added more depth and personality to the gods than I’ve seen before. I loved her take on unclaimed demigods.
The characters could not have possibly been written better. All of them were amazing, but I have to say that Bastian was definitely my favorite throughout. The characters seemed incredibly real and interesting with genuine emotions. Their motivations made perfect sense and they all had defined personalities that made them all loveable (or hate-able, Daphne) in their own ways.
This was the spiciest book I ever read. That’s not necessarily a high bar, but many scenes made me both gasp and giggle. I couldn’t read them around others as they most likely would think I’m insane. And they fit in perfectly. Some books seem to throw them in there just to have them, but they all work and make sense.
Going further into romance, I loved the pet names all of the interests gave Emery. It was a small detail that really stood out to me and defined the characters in my mind. And the different ways they all showed their affection was brilliant. I’m running out of synonyms for fantastic, that’s how good this book was.
Another thing, the plot is so good. It made me need to know what happened. I didn’t want to set down the book and read it every single moment that I could.
If I could give this book more stars, I would give it a million more. It is just that amazing. I give my sincerest recommendation that you absolutely need to read this book. I really hope that there is a sequel.
I am so incredibly honoured and grateful that the author let me read this book early, and I have a feeling that I’ll still be buying a physical copy of the book when it comes out just so that I can own it. Hope you have a great rest of your day and a wonderful time reading.
December 30, 2025
What an amazing book! I felt like I was right there going through Emery’s journey with her. I’ve always been drawn to Greek mythology and this is definitely a favorite of what I have read!
(I am so grateful to have received this book as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily)
(I am so grateful to have received this book as an ARC and am leaving this review voluntarily)
June 27, 2025
As an ARC reader, I had the opportunity to read Huntress Rising. I greatly recommend this book to all interested readers; it will keep you on the edge of your seat from the beginning to the end. If you are looking to read a masterclass in world-building, developing romance, and Greek fantasy, then you are definitely in the right place. Huntress Rising is the next great book that we will all be talking about!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🏹 Huntress Rising — Megan M. Franey
Huntress Rising is the kind of fantasy that sinks its claws into you early and never loosens its grip. Blending Greek mythology with a fierce, emotionally driven narrative, this story reimagines gods, demigods, and fate in a way that feels bold, intimate, and entirely its own.
The world-building is immersive without being overwhelming, grounding mythological elements in rich character development. Every character feels purposeful and distinct, driven by believable motivations and layered emotions. Watching their bonds form—through tension, trust, and undeniable chemistry—was one of the most satisfying parts of the story.
The romance is deliciously slow-burning and deeply character-focused. Each relationship brings something unique, from playful affection to intense devotion, making every interaction feel earned. The spice is perfectly balanced, woven naturally into the story to heighten emotional connection rather than distract from it.
What truly sets Huntress Rising apart is its pacing and momentum. The plot is gripping, the stakes are high, and every chapter leaves you wanting more. I found myself completely absorbed, unable to put the book down as secrets unraveled and power awakened.
If you love Greek mythology, strong heroines, found family, and romance that burns just as fiercely as the action, Huntress Rising deserves a spot at the very top of your TBR.
Huntress Rising is the kind of fantasy that sinks its claws into you early and never loosens its grip. Blending Greek mythology with a fierce, emotionally driven narrative, this story reimagines gods, demigods, and fate in a way that feels bold, intimate, and entirely its own.
The world-building is immersive without being overwhelming, grounding mythological elements in rich character development. Every character feels purposeful and distinct, driven by believable motivations and layered emotions. Watching their bonds form—through tension, trust, and undeniable chemistry—was one of the most satisfying parts of the story.
The romance is deliciously slow-burning and deeply character-focused. Each relationship brings something unique, from playful affection to intense devotion, making every interaction feel earned. The spice is perfectly balanced, woven naturally into the story to heighten emotional connection rather than distract from it.
What truly sets Huntress Rising apart is its pacing and momentum. The plot is gripping, the stakes are high, and every chapter leaves you wanting more. I found myself completely absorbed, unable to put the book down as secrets unraveled and power awakened.
If you love Greek mythology, strong heroines, found family, and romance that burns just as fiercely as the action, Huntress Rising deserves a spot at the very top of your TBR.
February 4, 2026
The story started really strong with an interesting concept about Greek Mythology and (demi)gods. I am used to quite a bit of world building in my reading, so I didn't mind it at first. But after a while, some things and thoughts felt extensive and repetitive and I got a little bored. I also wasn't feeling the romance/tension between Emery and Bastian/Zephyros/Kairos. Sometimes they were very distant and it felt like they barely knew her, but other times they were very interested and gave her a lot of special attention. It didn't feel like she was building a relationship with them, there were just a lot of events that happened where they were also involved in. So after 70% I lost interest and started skipping scenes and speed read the rest until the end, because I was curious about the ending. I hoped that there would be some big plot twists, but they didn't suprise me at all.
I did like Amalia and her character development in this story. I also liked the overall plot, with the different houses, the demigods training in the academy and finding out where they belonged. I also am curious about where the story is going, so I might pick up book 2 after all.
I did like Amalia and her character development in this story. I also liked the overall plot, with the different houses, the demigods training in the academy and finding out where they belonged. I also am curious about where the story is going, so I might pick up book 2 after all.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews