Hodderscape Warrior of the Drowned Empire the hotly anticipated fourth book in the Drowned Empire romantasy series (Drowned Empire Series).

Drowned Empire #4

by Frankie Diane Mallis

Lyr's Journey Continues in Book 4 of the Drowned Empire Series

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Fantasy Romance, High Fantasy, New Adult, Fiction

720 pages, Paperback

First published February 20, 2025

Reviews

[Clace · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.35!

"I fell from heaven for you. Tracked you down life after life , and I'll continue to find you after this one ends. I'll find you again. I'll always find you, always know you.

I was waiting for this book for the longest time like I was so desperate for it and because Frankie got a publishing deal it got delayed so I was like very very desperate that I applied for her arc team form and thankfully I got accepted so I got an early access and I am so glad because it fed me, it slowly ended my desperation and gave me life and it may seem like I'm exaggerating but I have come to love this series so much and I am so happy that we have three more books + two novellas more because I can never see this series ending!!! I have grown so attached to this series. It is so underrated and it deserves so much more love than it gets. It has everything. Roman inspired, throne of glass vibes with extremely high stakes and a lush romance storyline and honestly I am obsessed with Frankie's storytelling style, it's so immersive like I actually imagine myself in that world and it's all so vivid that it's hard not to fall in love with it.

“I don’t need to claim you. Nor mark you. It’s not your body that’s mine. It’s your heart, it’s your soul. Just as my heart, body, and soul are yours. In this life, in every life. Forever. Rakame.”

Lyr, I missed her so much and I love how much her character has developed and how much she has been through and how it shaped her, she was such a strong character and it was so good to read her point of view, I honestly missed it so much!! Like, I was craving for it so bad! but I loved reading about her, the way she sacrifices so much for her sisters and how in this series the sisters are also grateful and acknowledge that will forever be my favorite part. The sisterly bond was such a monumental part. Rhyan, It's so hard not to love Rhyan's character because he written in depth, there so much work done around his character, the novellas dedicated to him do his character such justice which automatically makes it so easier to like his character, him reassuring that Lyr was with her by saying 'Partner' was so sweet, him reuniting with his friends was also so fun to read and these moments in this series are what I live for!! Meera, She has so much potential and I feel like she will play a major plot point. Morgana and Aemon, I didnt connect to their story nor did I care for it mainly because I was confused when it came to them.. Daario and Aiden, These two new characters were really fun to read!! Tristan, I love the redemption arc.

"Take me. Take me for all I am. You want to claim me? Mark me? Do it. Scratch me, scar me. I don't care. Your touch is the only one I've ever wanted. The only one I've ever needed. And I'll take it in any way I can."

The romance was amazing!! it's honestly so well done because the way they care for each and how it's shown throughout the series just makes a way into your heart. They have been through so much and seeing them love each other but be forced apart hurts so much and I need them to focus on it so bad, for them to be happy and at peace but I now Frankie would not do that because they went through so much in this one:( Lyrianna and Rhyan were perfect. Morganna and Aemon, didnt really grab my attention and I couldn't care for their chapters. Meera and Daario?? am I seeing a potential something??

"The only thing that has ever moved you, The only thing that has ever unleashed an ounce of submission, or duty, or intelligence into your godsdamned mind is the idea of her in danger."

The plot and the worldbuilding, was so stellar!! I love where the plot was going but in this book I felt like it had filler content and that's one of the reasons why it's not a five because it was long and with filler but her writing was enjoyable so I didn't mind it that much, I really love how rich this world is and how much there is still to explore and how we will explore more but it's honestly amazing what she has crafted, it's not only breathtaking but so easy to visualize and when you do visualize it, its enchanting. The ending made me want to cry because what was thatttttt.

Overall, it was amazing and I can't wait for Son and Traitor!!
___
4 or 5?!? im so conflictedddd but I enjoyed the hell out of this one.
__
I forgot to log it in here but I started this a while ago because I got the arc (arc team privileges) but I am absolutely loving this!!! you guys have to read it and I hope that I continue to enjoy it!

[⁠*⁠♡Lilac⁠*⁠♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

If it had not lost me midway this would've been a five but it's still a banger

[taylor ❤️‍🔥 · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚. 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡. 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩, 𝙗𝙤𝙙𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨. 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚. 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧. 𝙧𝙖𝙠𝙖𝙢𝙚.”

this review is very much going to read like a love letter for the drowned empire series and frankie diane mallis as an author and i’m not afraid to show my love because god knows she deserves it. this series is so!!! criminally underrated.

warrior of the drowned empire basically picks up where lady of the drowned empire ended and was truly 700 pages of emotional distress yet was still somehow the best book i’ve read in such a long time?? frankie is such a phenomenal writer and everything she includes in her stories is intentional. we see familiar faces from the previous books and novella return, allowing her to weave the past and present together. her storytelling ability made room for unexpected alliances and the resurfacing of deep trauma the characters experienced.

there was so much character growth in this book. the meager, rule following lyriana we met in daughter of the drowned emperor is no more. she has blossomed into a strong, confident woman that is able to *literally* fight for what she believes in and those she loves most. rhyans character had so much emotional growth during this book. we see him finally come clean to lyr about his past, and his true love and devotion to her is on display throughout the entire book. the love lyr and rhyan show each other in this book has truly skyrocketed them into one of my top three favorite book couples.
𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙚: i truly never thought that there would be a way for tristian to redeem himself in my eyes by my god by the end of the book he made it to my good side.

“𝙞 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞’𝙡𝙡 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙪𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙛𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨. 𝙞’𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣. 𝙞’𝙡𝙡 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”

i also just need to get this out… THAT ENDING?? i’ve truly never wanted to scream into a pillow more than during that final chapter. as the plot was inching toward the readers biggest fear, i was still hoping it would somehow manage to be a nightmare. i just had to keep reminding myself that there are 7 books planned for the series and this is book 4, it all has to work out in the long run right?? RIGHT?? 😭

also can we please get a round of applause for rhyan “be a good girl” hart??? frankie you really outdid yourself with that one.

———————————
SOMEONE HOLD ME 😭😭😭 rtc after I collect my thoughts from this emotional devastation.
———————————

time for my most anticipated arc and release of 2025 🥰✨

[⋆ ༻ Rue ༺⋆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

SO worth the wait

[Flora (Helia's version) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book after book it just keeps on delivering. I loved it!!

[Koisty · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Maraaka Stars ⭐️
Spicy Level:🌶️🌶️/5

“I don’t need to claim you. Nor mark you. It’s not your body that’s mine. It’s your heart, it’s your soul. Just as my heart, body, and soul are yours. In this life, in every life. Forever. Rakame.”

This was an incredibly difficult book review to write!!!

I am mad... and sad... and want to scream and break something...
Like why does it feel like SO MUCH HAPPENED and nothing happened at all. I am the biggest Frankie HYPE GIRL! I was SO hyped, excited, and anxiously waiting for this release! I know I had high expectations. This series will always be dear to my heart, but I cannot deny that this book left me wanting more.

Unfortunately, even though this is Book 4, it suffers badly from middle-book syndrome.

BUT JUST SO YOU KNOW Frankie is going to abuse your emotions and shatter your heart and maybe step on it a little bit... then burn the pieces and laugh as you cry in the corner suffering...

𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
This book picks up almost exactly where book three ended, but we are introduced to a new POV. I won’t spoil who it is, but it is a character you know but not necessarily one you would expect. Lyr and Rhyan have just rescued Meera and been betrayed by Morgana, who now possesses the lilac shard but hasn’t given it to Aemon yet. Meanwhile, Lyr is on a mission to rescue Jules, now fully certain that she is alive. But of course things don't according to plan and they are captured by NONE OTHER THAN RHYAN's EX FRIENDS, Aiden and Dario, who have orders to bring them to Imperator Hart...

NOTE: Now, while the novellas aren’t required to follow the main storyline, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND reading Son of the Drowned Empire , which tells Rhyan’s journey to becoming Forsworn and the events leading up to his arrival in book 1. A lot of characters that make appearances in this book, their motivations and backstory are referenced in this book without being repeated, and while you will still understand the main PLOT... knowing this side of the story definitely adds depth to the plot.

𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
The book immediately throws you into the action. Tensions are sky-high almost throughout the entire book. There are so many moving pieces, so many plots unfolding at once, that it feels like everything is crumbling while our characters desperately try to hold things together.

As always, Frankie’s writing is exceptional. However, I struggled to get into the story initially, but that’s entirely on me for not doing a re-read beforehand,! Luckily, Frankie includes a recap of the story at the start of her books, which helps. It still took me about 20% of the book to feel fully invested, but once I was in?! OH BOY, I was sucked in. Emotionally and physically, the writing captivated and mesmerised me, witnessing everything our characters go through. The world-building and lore expansion continue to be some of the strongest elements of this series. Every book adds more and more layers, making the universe feel incredibly rich and well-developed.

Lyr and Rhyan's relationship is truly tested in this book. They are forced into situations that challenge everything they have built together. There is a lot of trust that needs to be rebuilt and a lot of acceptance (especially when it comes to Rhyan’s past and the things he has done.) On top of that there is the political intrigue that pulls our characters in multiple directions. Bargains, oaths, and new alliances forming, while old alliances are questioned - adding to a constant uncertainty of who can actually be trusted.

Now, here’s where things get complicated...

I have been trying to write this review without talking about my frustrations, but honestly? I can’t. I love this series too much not to be honest about where this book didn’t work for me. I am a little mad BECAUSE I WANTED MORE. So much happens and yet at the same time nothing happened. There are plot elements and themes that I have seen play out before and then to see them play out again MULTIPLE TIMES in this book started getting frustrating because it was feeling repetitive and that the plot was going in circles instead of moving forward. Now do not get me wrong, some aspects DO MOVE FORWARD. But for a book this long, I expected more.

Then, I felt like there weren't many "BIG REVEALS". There were twists and turns, and some shock moments, but nothing felt new. I had predicted a lot of these reveals in my theories after reading the previous books, so when they happened, I wasn’t surprised. There were no jaw-dropping moments, no earth-shattering twists, just confirmations of what I already predicted.

Then there is the character development...or lack thereof. It felt like Lyr and Rhyan stagnated, and after the incredible growth seen in both of them in Lady and Son, it was stagnant in Warrior. I felt Lyr was incredibly selfish and juvenile at times with her actions and decisions.

I must say the side character growth did make up for it a little. Meera starts coming out of her shell and elements of the Heir Apparent she was shine through in some of her actions. AND THEN THERE IS MORGANA! I LOVE HER VILLAIN ARC! Even though I still don’t fully understand her, or her choices and motivation, I loved how she was written. She remains one of the most intriguing characters in this series, and I cannot wait to see what she does next.

This book does have a few spicy scenes and my brain still battles on enjoying reading Aemon Smut (BECAUSE HE IS THE BAD GUY AND I SHOULDNT BE ENJOYING IT), but you can see that Frankie heard our pleas to amp it up in sexy moments, and delivered.

𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Multi POV
▶ Forbidden Romance
▶ Forbidden Magic/Powers
▶ Soul Mates
▶ Reincarnated Gods
▶ Political Intrigue
▶ Complex World Building
▶ Touch Him/Her You Die
▶ Secret Pining
▶Written in the Stars

𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▷ "Mine"
▷ Nicknames
▷ "It's always been you"
▷ Forehead Kisses
▷ "Lift your hips for me"

𝙁𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
Overall, Warrior was still an enjoyable read and while the CLIFFHANGER IS GOING TO KILL YOU INSIDE... It's setting up for what is sure to be an explosive last three books. Even though aspects annoyed me... I still love this world, and I will be picking up the next book the moment I can get my little hands on it!!!!

Thank you so much to Frankie for this gifted copy! All thoughts and feelings are my own!

[Viper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Original review: Yeah I’m going to go ahead and give it five stars before there’s even a release date. Frankie could write 3 sentences on a bar napkin and I’d bend over backwards to read it.

After ARC read:

This review will come as no surprise. I have never hidden my love for this series or absolute adoration of Frankie Diane Mallis’ writing — which deserves far more recognition. If I could wrap myself in her words, I would.

As per usual, Mallis is a masterful story teller. Warrior of the Drowned Empire seamlessly picks up where Lady of the Drowned Empire left off, weaving every chapter with emotional intensity and carefully crafted devastation —yet it is my favorite book in the series thus far. How could it not be after “..all I’ve ever needed…”

Through unexpected alliances and the resurfacing of deep-seated trauma, she deepens the emotional complexity of the narrative. The character growth of Lyr and our favorite Not Lord in this book is nothing short of incredible. After the novellas, I wasn’t expecting so much growth but was pleasantly surprised and impressed by the character progression and fortitude. I wish I could say more, but doing so would spoil the immaculate experience of reading Warrior for the first time.

[Laura (Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

it slowed down but otherwise it was sooo good like it was exactly what I needed.

[Antonella · Rating 2 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this book did not work for me, and I won’t be continuing with the series. While the premise had potential...blending reincarnation, gods, and political intrigue...the execution left much to be desired.

While I can see why some readers might enjoy this...especially those who love intricate world-building and heavy mythological influences—it just wasn’t for me.

🎶The Loneliest – Måneskin
🎶Glory and Gore – Lorde

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to begin—this was 700 pages of pure emotional turmoil. The sheer depth of feeling I’m experiencing right now is overwhelming. At first, I was elated, swept up in the joy of it all. Then came the frustration, the anger, the heartache. And by the end? Absolute devastation.

Lyr and Rhyan’s relationship blossoming was a beautiful journey, a testament to their growth and resilience. Seeing Rhyan finally open up, laying bare his truths and secrets to Lyr, was both heart-wrenching and cathartic. Their intimacy was breathtaking—not just in the physical sense, though the scenes were masterfully written—but in the way they connected on a profound emotional level. With Mercurial no longer standing in their way, their bond felt even more powerful.

I also loved the way the past wove itself into the present, with familiar faces from Son of the Drowned Empire resurfacing and shattering long-held assumptions. Nothing is ever as it seems, and Frankie Diane Mallis proves once again that she is a mastermind of intricate storytelling and impeccable foreshadowing.

But that ending—it broke me. I am utterly shattered, sobbing as I try to process it all. I know, deep down, that it will all make sense in the grand scheme of things because Mallis is unparalleled in the way she constructs her narratives. But right now? Right now, I can’t see the light at the end of this tunnel. I am lost in the devastation, and I don’t know how to pull myself out.

[Hazel · Rating 5 out of 5]

EMOTIONAL DAMAGE!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

🌶️🌶️ .5

I just want to scream. I will NEVER recover from this cliff hanger.

It seems to me that Warrior of the Drowned Empire is the transition book from the OG story line to the next phase of the Drowned Empire world. There was a lot more set up, and info sharing throughout Warrior, than the previous books. It definitely had its action-packed moments, but not as many as what we’ve seen in books 1-3.

When reading Romantasy, I often lose interest in the main characters once they’ve come together but not in the Drowned Empire series. Even after Lady, Frankie Diane manages to still deliver a steaming, slow burn plot line for Lyr and Rhyan and I was livinggggg for it.

Warrior was full of twists and had me anxious 85% of the time because WHO THE HELL CAN WE TRUST?

HIGHLY recommend not skipping the novella Son, because it really does add greater depth to the characters of Warrior.

I sobbed through that last 3-4 chapters, a testament to Frankie Diane’s emotive writing, giving us incredible characters that we are so invested in.

I am not looking forward to the inevitable book hangover… 🥲

Thank you Frankie Diane for allowing me to be part of your ARC team 🩷

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m beyond grateful and honoured to have received an ARC for this book and my favourite series of all time! Thank you so much to Frankie Diane Mallis for this exciting opportunity ❤️

The Drowned Empire is one of those series where you think it couldn’t possibly get more amazing and finely written, but manages to blow your mind with each subsequent book. 5 stars are simply not enough.

In Warrior, we’re immediately sucked back into Lyr and Rhyan’s world as they continue their journey on the run and face threats from every side. Especially after the betrayals in Lady, the stakes are as high as ever. The plot twists and secrets revealed kept on coming, feeling like a gut punch every time. As a reader, it was an incredible but painful experience watching each character being tested to their limits and suffering through the resulting trauma and emotional distress.

Not only does Rhyan fight external forces like slaying akadim and nahashim, but we also get to see him battle and overcome his internal obstacles by opening up to Lyr in a deeper way that he has never done before. The way the author is able to handle such a complex topic like trauma is beautiful and shows just how much of an excellent writer she is, as the quality of writing never wavers.

Lyr’s character growth stood out to me the most compared to the rest, as we get to see her courage and strength really show, letting absolutely nothing hold her back as she protects her loved ones. In the past, it was obvious that Rhyan would sacrifice everything for her, but this time we get to see just as much devotion and unconditional love Lyr has for him too.

It was exciting learning more about characters from Rhyan’s past, as well as seeing Meera and Tristan’s characters develop further and feeling more connected with them in a way we never got to previously.

I highly recommend this book if you were having any doubts about continuing the series.

[Liz Poe ❄️✨💙 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Things are really starting to pick up with several different pieces moving at once. The world building in this series is excellent and so detailed that it’s easy to transport yourself into this ancient fantasy world. There’s a lot of focus on the current political games at play while an ancient magic is stirring. The concept is so interesting and different, that I’ve been hooked since the beginning!

I know the author plans for the main series to be a 7 book saga which sounded daunting going in. After reading the 4th, I can see the long term vision she has for the series regarding the intricate puzzle pieces of the plot and all the different characters’ development. However, I do think some of the books could have been condensed already and I’m interested to see what the next three will reveal to us and hopefully won’t feel like the author is dragging the story out. 🏛️🗡️ 🔥

That ending was cruel, now I have to wait until November to check on my babies. 😓

[Rita Olander · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a complete chokehold for this series! This book was intense—one of those rare reads that had me hanging on every chapter, heart racing, swelling, and shattering all at once. I laughed, I cried, and I felt every moment. Frankie has a gift for storytelling that pulls you in so completely, evoking deep empathy for the characters until you’re utterly consumed by their journey.

The spice? steamy and perfect! The plot twists? Mind-blowing. The surprises? Constantly keeping me on edge. I needed to keep turning the pages, completely lost in the world of Warrior. And that ending? A cliffhanger that delivers just the right amount of emotional devastation — in the best way possible!

If you love the emotional depth and epic storytelling of MKR or SJM, this book delivers on every level while standing uniquely on its own. I rarely fall for long series, but The Drowned Empire just keeps getting better and better, raising the stakes with every installment.

Book 4 is phenomenal—so grab some chocolate, grab some tissues, and prepare to be completely devoured by this masterpiece. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down.

[Briana · Rating 1 out of 5]

I uh, hated this book with everything in my soul😭 The rape threats, everything going wrong and I mean EVERYTHING. Not a single thing planned went right (accept getting Jules), characters were useless until 70% Didn’t like a single thing until Galen killed Emperor Theotis. Of course I love Rhy. That never changes but I was even bothered by the fact that in the past Rhy was able to break through bindings. In the most important parts Rhy and Lry can’t break through these bindings, even with the power of gods in them like come on? Everyone knew everything, at that point when the imperator of the south was like “I know Rhyans vorahk” I was just like “wow really??”.

Let’s go back to the rape threats. I was just taken aback, it was very disturbing because it was so leaned on towards the beginning of the book that I was scared of every sex scene after… The scene where Morgan’s dreams about Aemon doing things to her and she wakes to the Akadem surrounding her… no please that was just horrible🤢 Imperator Hart putting his hands on Lyr to fix her dress, please we get it, these are horrible men😭

Lyr and Rhy lusting for each other at the wrong moments, couldn’t that time be used in doing something USEFUL.

There was so much more, I feel like a lot was thrown in there for the hell of it. If these main characters had a search history, it’d be “how to keep escaping countries without getting caught for dummies” bc of course after getting captured but Imperator Hart and escaping, Rhy ends up getting captured… Wow, who would’ve thought that would happen🥰✋🏽. Again.

Lyr learning about Rhys past lovers? Idgaf, personally thought her jealousy wasn’t necessary considering how DOWN BAD this man is for her. Maybe learning about it is still like “oh he didn’t tell me…” but you already know what’s up girl come on!

Lyr. Just Lyr. A lot happened, I love her as a character but damn if she could just go through with her role? Like yes, this is thee perfect time to break character and confirm with Imperator Hart that you were apart of the murder of Brockton… idk y’all, can you tell I was annoyed with a lot of things?

I said a lot already so imma end it like this, a moment of silence for the real victim in this entire series so far, Rhyan Hart… he did not deserve anything that came to him and this is coming from someone who read the novellas too. The ending of this book? I’m empty… I will be reading the next book despite me not liking this so much, love the author with my heart. Nothing against her. Please continue being amazing. This just wasn’t for me😩.

[sofie❣ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Im DONE and I need the the fifth book NOW

[Rachel Elyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m dead inside 😭😭😭

5✨
2.5 🌶️

As much as I want to keep my review like that, I will write a real one 🤣 but first I would like to thank the author for this opportunity with that said all thoughts are my own and this review is 100% voluntary and honest 🤍

My heart still hurts. This was definitely a middle book. We didn’t get too much new stuff in regard to the plot, we honestly ended up in a worse spot to be honest by the end 🤣💀. But Frankie’s writing is always so good and beautifully executed. You can’t help but love the world and its characters.

Lyr and Rhyan have had so much growth over the past few books. I would say they didn’t necessarily have growth in this book but the situations they were put in definitely strengthened their love and inner selves. I’m still thoroughly invested in them and I’m honestly so so terrified for what’s to come.

I was 1000% wrecked by the end of the book. And ANGRY. lol though not as much as I was heartbroken. A plot trope/device is used near the end that isn’t my favorite but it was honestly probably going to happen at some point some way. But I really really hope it’s not going to be dragged out 😭. My heart can’t handle that. Like my heart was thoroughly ripped out, shredded, and stomped on thank you very much 😭

FIX THIS FRANKIE PLEASE 😭😭

Overall I highly recommend this series to my hearts content 🤣🫶🏼

[Jess · Rating 1 out of 5]

What happened? This book was a massive disappointment. I’ve enjoyed the series this far even though the first half of previous books were repetitive, but I’ve had enough. The book is too long, the content is too repetitive, and there is no longer anything to keep me engaged. This book has such a weird focus on men being gross to women and I don’t understand at ALL? What happened to the incredible plot about reincarnated gods? I couldn’t wait for this to be over, and I wanted to DNF so many times but hoped the plot would reveal itself and it just didn’t. There is barely any action and no plot progression in the book, just talking and repetitive scenes, only in the very end did anything happen.

I won’t be continuing with this series, which is sad because the first three books were fantastic.

[Dayna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the recap at the beginning to catch you up to everything that’s happened in the series so far! On the one hand the writing continued to be masterful, as it was in previous books. The writing is eloquent and expresses fantastic emotional depth in all the characters we come across. We see more of the characters in Rhyan’s past and their interpersonal relationships develop. Frankie is such an artist when comes to weaving the stories of relationships! But the darker elements of the political struggles and terrorism from the horrible characters we’re seen previously really dominate this book, and given the current state of the world it was heavier than I was hoping for. In previous books it always felt well balanced with love, hope, and perseverance despite the horrors but this one was a bit out of balance in my opinion. Although anxiety keeps you desperately wanting to read more. This one delivers so much tension! This is the middle book of the main series of 7 and it follows the usual trend of things going to shit before they get better, lol. I feel the plot suffered from the main characters being sidetracked constantly, which Mercurial points out multiple times so this was obviously intentional, but I felt like we learned relatively little about the world and the mysterious powers that shaped it for such a large book. I was hoping for a bit more. Nevertheless this series has me in a chokehold and I eagerly await the next one! The emotional devastation of the ending…I was NOT prepared for! So fair warning there. *Upon further reflection I did not like that ending (no spoilers) - the character involved really did not deserve that! Also that’s going to be a big endeavor to fix that, which is yet another sidetrack. I trust Frankie’s vision, but I am unhappy about it.* Also trigger warning that sexual assault and rape don’t happen on the page but are referred to a lot.

[a · Rating 4 out of 5]

fck when they will have some peace?

[Jessica Berry · Rating 2 out of 5]

OK...so...yes, I still really like this series. and yes, I will finish it. but good god we have lost the thread.

this review pretty much says it all, so I won't repeat it....but 700 pages, and like, no plot progression. just reapeated trama, an awkwardly excessive amount of rape talk, way too many pages devoted to over-thinking, and a dozen+ "back to square one" moments.

I want to repeat, I actually do really like this series. I devoured the first two, and fell in love with the characters. but the third seemed to slow down, and this one just ground to a halt. I really hope the fifth one gets us to the finish line, and doesn't just keep going in circles...

[Laura · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think I disliked more of this book than I liked it. I can’t seem to care about these characters anymore. They all seem whiny and annoying. How many times can SA be threatened? I get it as a way to instill fear, but chapter after chapter and this is all the bad guys think about?? No one here is actually intelligent. Subtly and nuisance cannot be found here. Also, editors! We need more editors! Nothing happens for hundreds of pages!! How is there another book…

[Shawn Powers · Rating 1 out of 5]

Every few chapters we get ten pages of the two main characters apologizing. Then we hear about how strong the mc is but she gets captured by 2 people early on and cannot get away. Like the writing is so bad I don’t know what im reading. Only half way through hope it gets better

[Zeph rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

After book 3 disappointing me I was scared to read this but I should've known better than to doubt Frankie. This was amazing and it hitttttt!! girlie pop knows how to write. It still didnt hit the mark that the first two books and novellas set. Looking forward to the next one.

[Ashley | A Pair of Readers · Rating 5 out of 5]

OOOFFF, this book. This book. Wow. 

Warrior of the Drowned Empire does follow the same dark road as Lady and Son of the Drowned Empire. Frankie is doubling down on this dark ride and all I could think was "Frankie -- leave those poor dears alone!" through much of this book -- it is moody, dark, intense. The big bads are still as hateful and evil as ever and I cannot wait for them to FINALLY meet their end, but Lyr, Rhyan, and the gang truly demonstrate their loyalty to each other through their book. 

I liked that Frankie continues to write these very realistic and raw characters that are very much written to be complicated and complex. They are driven by both selfless and selfish motivators just like the rest of us. Lyr, Rhyan, and the rest of the gang (which is growing in numbers) barely have time to breathe or really deal with much of the fall out from Lady because danger is constantly forcing them to deal with new and old foes. I also am particularly nervous for Lyr to finally deal with a lot of repressed emotions that are bubbling to the surface with the return of another character. I feel like we have not yet seen the tip of the iceberg as to what happens to their relationship given their time apart. 

I do have one request. I WANT MORE MEERA. We finally got this hint of Meera as a character with a mission -- so different from the glimpses we have seen of her previously and I want more. I feel like she is a badass waiting in the wings and I demand more! 

As for the ending...I have to admit I have always wondered if we would get here. Knowing Frankie's love for Buffy -- it has always been in the back of my mind if something like this could or would happen throughout the course of this series. I have toyed with which character might meet this fate, but this one was a slowing moving crash into a very dark ending (cue physical wince). 

I cannot wait to see where she takes this series next because that cliffhanger will leave you on the literal edge.

4.5/5

[Faith Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frankie has done it again and I was sat her feet the whole time for it— I did have to sit and process though! Coming into this next installation of this series, I knew the hurt was only going to get worse, and my anxiety only increased with the foreword reminding us that this is only book 4 of 7… But nothing could have prepared me for that ending! I truly just let Frankie show me where I’m going and it’s always a hell of a time, so my trust is in her that we will come back from this plot twist better than ever, but I’m numb to anything and everything til then 🥲 Frankie— thank you so much for writing such a beautiful story and for allowing me to be a part of the ARC team again. Bravo!

[eclecticbychoicereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Take me. Take me for all I am. You want to claim me? Mark me? Do it. Scratch me, scar me. I don't care. Your touch is the only one I've ever wanted. The only one I've ever needed. And I'll take it in any way I can."

I am not sure I will find the right words to describe just how perfect and utterly and devastatingly beautiful this book is. No, there are no right words, but I will do my best.

I have been on this journey with Rhyan and Lyr since Book 1 in the Drowned Empire series by Frankie Dianne Mallis. And while I truly enjoyed seeing both of them grow and understand who and what they are, nothing could've prepared me for Warrior of the Drowned Empire. Book 4 and, undoubtedly the best one of the series. So much was going on in this instalment—so many different plot twists and turns, so many secrets uncovered, and so many emotions swirling around. I think Frankie has made and unmade my heart so many times I've lost count. I felt so much; I cried so much. The anxiety and the fear were so palpable I could've tasted it.

Rhyan was and is the MMC you have to meet and fall in love with. He is the epitome of a warrior, protector, and devoted lover. He is the one who will readily carry the weight of the world on his shoulders to spare those he loves. He will readily sacrifice himself and do whatever it takes. Rhyan was the constant of the series, but Lyr surprised me the most. In previous books, I often found myself unable to connect with her character; she sometimes felt too brash, too unaware of her surroundings. But, in the Warrior, she shined. Her growth was remarkable, and she has become a character I admire. The two of them and their love and devotion, timeless and limitless, were otherworldly in every sense of the word.

I loved seeing and getting to know some old and new characters and seeing the world through their eyes. Tristan's POV offered so much depth and layers to the story, like Morgana's. But all of them, Rhyan, Lyr, Tristan, Morgana, Meera, and others, were pivotal to the story.

And that ending...Frankie, that ending. I was crushed. How will I live until Book 5 is in my arms? I don't try, but I will try.

The Warrior of the Drowned Empire will be released on February 20th, so the clock is ticking. I was honoured to be a member of Frankie's ARC team and can only hope to continue doing so.

[Danii Haley · Rating 2 out of 5]

I am disappointed in this, to say the least. I thought long and hard about writing a review, and could not help but to say something as I felt like I was robbed (literally, I would like my money back). *To warn, this is my personal opinion based on my reading experience - I understand others may like and enjoy this series but unfortunately I am not one of them, despite my best effort**

The first books were good (not great) but intriguing enough that I was determined to see this series through. Now I feel like I’m stuck in a hamster wheel and don’t know how to get off. The author has lost the plot.

There was so many nonsensical threats of sexual violence that I started to think this was a romantic kink that I missed a trigger warning for. What was the point? There also was zero movement of the plot for about 80% of the book, and then all of that just to have the ending be as it was… WHAT?! Why?!

And the MFC is flipping back and forth between being triggered for something that almost happened to then being this incredibly empowered, albeit bullheaded female lead? Sorry, I don’t buy it. She came off in the least, annoying to down right insufferable on some occasions. The same can be said for the MMC who is described as being this all-powerful individual, yet continues to be bested again and again? HUH? No thank you.

Sorry to say, but the author has put herself into a rock and a hard place trying to wrap this story up. And so help me god if it is ANOTHER book after that.

[Miranda Allen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay I have mixed feelings about this one. I binged the first three books. Absolutely loved them. I loved the academy setting and the political intrigue. This book completely left all of that behind and I found myself waaay less interested in the new conflict. It took a while to get into. Also too many POVs. I get that there are multiple storylines but I just don’t care about Morgana. Also Rhyan’s devotion to Lyr felt so over the top sometimes that I got sick of reading from his POV. BUT I actually did like the addition of Tristan’s POV as it helped me understand him more. In the end I was able to become more engaged in the story but it’s for sure my least favorite of the series. Very much the middle book.

Also side note- I have never once in my entire life used the word undulate and this author uses it at least once per chapter. It’s unlocked a new ick for me.

[Ashley Wendt · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is going to be harsh, but I don’t think I’ve ever been more disappointed by a book before. This was one of my favorite series up to this point. I almost DNF’d this one. Most of the plot was predictable. The storylines are getting out of hand and convoluted. My biggest gripe about this though was how juvenile almost ALL the men were written in this book. Imperator Kormac & Imperator Hart were disgusting like that annoying horny teenage boy that can’t stop their dumb sex jokes. It was annoying. That with the amount of rape, rape talk and boob grabbing made it almost unbearable to read and not in a triggering way but an overdone way. For the love of better writing, I hope the next book is not more of the same.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.