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The Warrior Priest: After the Rift
A warrior priest sworn to an oath of celibacy, and a spy fleeing from her past. A magical mystery, a forbidden temptation and a destiny they cannot escape.
Jacqueline (Jac) has survived on the streets ever since escaping from the clutches of her ruthless uncle, the city’s powerful governor. He craves more than political influence and believes a legendary talisman in Jac’s possession can give it to him.
To survive, Jac has honed her skills as a thief, catching the eye of Rhys Mayhew, a brother in an order of warrior priests. Rhys enlists her as a spy, and their partnership soon deepens into more. But Rhys’s faith demands strict adherence to oaths of denial, and when he is unexpectedly elevated to the position of master of his order, he faces an impossible his duty or his growing attraction to Jac.
As her uncle’s net tightens, Jac seizes a chance to become an assassin’s apprentice, leaving the city for months of grueling training. When she returns, much has changed—except the forbidden nature of her bond with Rhys.
When her uncle learns of her return, Jac’s life is in grave danger, forcing her and Rhys to unite. Together they unravel the secrets of the talisman and confront dangers both old and new. But the greatest danger of all is to Rhys’s loyalty, as resisting Jac becomes more difficult with every passing day.
NOTE: Although this book is a standalone novel set in the same world as the AFTER THE RIFT series, it can be enjoyed without having heard that series first.
Jacqueline (Jac) has survived on the streets ever since escaping from the clutches of her ruthless uncle, the city’s powerful governor. He craves more than political influence and believes a legendary talisman in Jac’s possession can give it to him.
To survive, Jac has honed her skills as a thief, catching the eye of Rhys Mayhew, a brother in an order of warrior priests. Rhys enlists her as a spy, and their partnership soon deepens into more. But Rhys’s faith demands strict adherence to oaths of denial, and when he is unexpectedly elevated to the position of master of his order, he faces an impossible his duty or his growing attraction to Jac.
As her uncle’s net tightens, Jac seizes a chance to become an assassin’s apprentice, leaving the city for months of grueling training. When she returns, much has changed—except the forbidden nature of her bond with Rhys.
When her uncle learns of her return, Jac’s life is in grave danger, forcing her and Rhys to unite. Together they unravel the secrets of the talisman and confront dangers both old and new. But the greatest danger of all is to Rhys’s loyalty, as resisting Jac becomes more difficult with every passing day.
NOTE: Although this book is a standalone novel set in the same world as the AFTER THE RIFT series, it can be enjoyed without having heard that series first.
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Published September 2, 2025
79 people are currently reading
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About the author
C.J. Archer
100 books5,696 followersC.J. Archer is the USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of historical mystery and historical fantasy novels including the GLASS AND STEELE series, the CLEOPATRA FOX MYSTERIES, the MINISTRY OF CURIOSITIES and THE GLASS LIBRARY series.
She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
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She has loved history and books for as long as she can remember and feels fortunate that she found a way to combine the two. She has at various times worked as a librarian, IT support person and technical writer but in her heart has always been a fiction writer. She lives in Melbourne, Australia, with her husband, 2 children and Coco the black and white cat.
Subscribe to C.J.'s newsletter to be notified when she releases a new book. Join via her website: www.cjarcher.com
You can follow her on social media to get the latest updates on her books:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CJArcherAuthorPage
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorcjarc...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 22, 2026
I love the reader of these books. She does such a great job! I do like the series better than this stand alone. Try After the Riff series. I really enjoy this author.
October 16, 2025
I had planned to skip this one--I have zero interest in priests, warrior or otherwise--but it popped up as available at the library, so I figured what the heck, it's C.J. Archer.
I read the After the Rift series years ago but don't remember much of the story now. Luckily, you really don't need to know anything about that story to read this one. You just might wonder why the king keeps being mentioned when the story has nothing to do with him.
This book was disappointing and frustrating. Not much happens, really, just the same things over and over. It felt like the plot was spinning its wheels because it had nowhere to go, so it made staying in place as dramatic as possible.
A plot: This girl, Jac, pines after this priest, who also loves her but nothing can happen because priest. So she pines, he's overly protective, she pines some more, he's overprotective some more, rinse and repeat. It's one of those romances in which a lot of emotional turmoil could have been avoided if they'd just sat down and had a frank conversation instead of always making assumptions about one another. I was so happy when Jac went to train with Giselle. But even when she comes back, it's just more of the same.
B plot: This was even more disappointing and tire-spinning. Jac's hiding from her uncle, who sees or catches her several times--several--but Jac always manages to escape or get rescued. Her uncle's reason for wanting her fizzles, so the subplot itself fizzles away. Very anti-climactic. Related, we learn Jac possesses magical abilities, and absolutely nothing cool happens with it. They're just shrugged off, like oh, that's what that was.
As for the characters, Jac was likeable enough but boring in her lack of ambition. She wanted to be with Rhys and that was about it. Which makes sense considering it's called The Warrior Priest--it wasn't meant to be her story. Which makes the decision to focus on her absolutely baffling.
Rhys I disliked. He was both the abused spouse who won't leave and the cheating husband who's not sorry. I could see that his marriage to the priesthood was toxic and abusive, could see that he was unhappy and unwell, and I didn't understand why he wouldn't just LEAVE this obviously unhealthy relationship. Beyond that, the narrative literally revolved around all the meaningless sex he's had and the sacred vows he broke to do it. Talked about it nonstop. So no, I didn't like him and didn't really want him around Jac, either.
Overall, the story just failed to evolve and come into its own potential. If Archer had set aside the romance novel formula, focused on Rhys and delved into his psyche, this could have been a multifaceted story of overcoming trauma. Or she could have committed to Jac's journey and followed her as she broke the cycle, moved beyond her crush and became something greater. Or both. Instead, it's neither--just a bad romance novel.
I read the After the Rift series years ago but don't remember much of the story now. Luckily, you really don't need to know anything about that story to read this one. You just might wonder why the king keeps being mentioned when the story has nothing to do with him.
This book was disappointing and frustrating. Not much happens, really, just the same things over and over. It felt like the plot was spinning its wheels because it had nowhere to go, so it made staying in place as dramatic as possible.
A plot: This girl, Jac, pines after this priest, who also loves her but nothing can happen because priest. So she pines, he's overly protective, she pines some more, he's overprotective some more, rinse and repeat. It's one of those romances in which a lot of emotional turmoil could have been avoided if they'd just sat down and had a frank conversation instead of always making assumptions about one another. I was so happy when Jac went to train with Giselle. But even when she comes back, it's just more of the same.
B plot: This was even more disappointing and tire-spinning. Jac's hiding from her uncle, who sees or catches her several times--several--but Jac always manages to escape or get rescued. Her uncle's reason for wanting her fizzles, so the subplot itself fizzles away. Very anti-climactic. Related, we learn Jac possesses magical abilities, and absolutely nothing cool happens with it. They're just shrugged off, like oh, that's what that was.
As for the characters, Jac was likeable enough but boring in her lack of ambition. She wanted to be with Rhys and that was about it. Which makes sense considering it's called The Warrior Priest--it wasn't meant to be her story. Which makes the decision to focus on her absolutely baffling.
Rhys I disliked. He was both the abused spouse who won't leave and the cheating husband who's not sorry. I could see that his marriage to the priesthood was toxic and abusive, could see that he was unhappy and unwell, and I didn't understand why he wouldn't just LEAVE this obviously unhealthy relationship. Beyond that, the narrative literally revolved around all the meaningless sex he's had and the sacred vows he broke to do it. Talked about it nonstop. So no, I didn't like him and didn't really want him around Jac, either.
Overall, the story just failed to evolve and come into its own potential. If Archer had set aside the romance novel formula, focused on Rhys and delved into his psyche, this could have been a multifaceted story of overcoming trauma. Or she could have committed to Jac's journey and followed her as she broke the cycle, moved beyond her crush and became something greater. Or both. Instead, it's neither--just a bad romance novel.
October 17, 2025
I got about half way through this book and decided not to finish it.
I did not really like the premise of the book; a priest who constantly cheats on his vows seems icky to me. I think if the author didn't make him a priest but made up a new title for someone who also 'practices' celibacy it would have been better. Also there was little to no faith or religion mentioned. So I never liked Rhys at all; he completely confused me and I didn't like him at all.
I also didn't really like Jac; her situation was so unrealistic and it often felt contrary to each other (An aristocrat turned street rat and then spy- with no skills?). So not liking either of the main characters and still feeling like the plot was slow, I decided to count this as a sad fail and move on.
Side Note: I do love C.J. Archer, which is one reason I think I disliked this so much (she can do better), so give another of her books a chance.
I did not really like the premise of the book; a priest who constantly cheats on his vows seems icky to me. I think if the author didn't make him a priest but made up a new title for someone who also 'practices' celibacy it would have been better. Also there was little to no faith or religion mentioned. So I never liked Rhys at all; he completely confused me and I didn't like him at all.
I also didn't really like Jac; her situation was so unrealistic and it often felt contrary to each other (An aristocrat turned street rat and then spy- with no skills?). So not liking either of the main characters and still feeling like the plot was slow, I decided to count this as a sad fail and move on.
Side Note: I do love C.J. Archer, which is one reason I think I disliked this so much (she can do better), so give another of her books a chance.
October 28, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ Review of The Warrior Priest by C.J. Archer
The Warrior Priest is an intriguing mix of magic, mystery, and forbidden romance. The story follows Jac, a clever thief and survivor on the run from her ruthless uncle, and Rhys, a devoted warrior priest sworn to celibacy. When their paths cross, they’re drawn into a dangerous mission involving a powerful talisman, political intrigue, and a temptation neither of them can fully resist.
C.J. Archer builds a richly detailed world full of tension and secrets, and the dynamic between Jac and Rhys adds emotional depth to the adventure. Their growing connection feels both heartfelt and conflicted, which makes their story compelling to follow.
While the pacing slowed down in parts, the blend of fantasy elements, romance, and suspense kept me invested throughout. It’s a solid read for fans of slow-burn relationships and magical intrigue set against a backdrop of danger and duty.
The Warrior Priest is an intriguing mix of magic, mystery, and forbidden romance. The story follows Jac, a clever thief and survivor on the run from her ruthless uncle, and Rhys, a devoted warrior priest sworn to celibacy. When their paths cross, they’re drawn into a dangerous mission involving a powerful talisman, political intrigue, and a temptation neither of them can fully resist.
C.J. Archer builds a richly detailed world full of tension and secrets, and the dynamic between Jac and Rhys adds emotional depth to the adventure. Their growing connection feels both heartfelt and conflicted, which makes their story compelling to follow.
While the pacing slowed down in parts, the blend of fantasy elements, romance, and suspense kept me invested throughout. It’s a solid read for fans of slow-burn relationships and magical intrigue set against a backdrop of danger and duty.
September 4, 2025
listen i LOVE the dynamic... priest and spy... makes me think of Inej x Kaz but only slightly.
I enjoy the religious trauma, the sneaky love, and the build up for their relationship and growth.
now the issue is the on and off again between the characters, like ffs. and usually the choices were being made bc someone was in their ear telling them to stay separated.
Jac is 20 years old but acts 16 and sometimes acts her age... she trusts way too easily for someone who is a spy/thief. shes quite ignorant.
now, I did enjoy the maturity level of Rhys, he was logical and respectful. I feel like that should have reflected in Jacs character.
I hope if there is a second book, there's more effort into Jacs character development.
the narrator & writer did a great job giving everyone personality
I enjoy the religious trauma, the sneaky love, and the build up for their relationship and growth.
now the issue is the on and off again between the characters, like ffs. and usually the choices were being made bc someone was in their ear telling them to stay separated.
Jac is 20 years old but acts 16 and sometimes acts her age... she trusts way too easily for someone who is a spy/thief. shes quite ignorant.
now, I did enjoy the maturity level of Rhys, he was logical and respectful. I feel like that should have reflected in Jacs character.
I hope if there is a second book, there's more effort into Jacs character development.
the narrator & writer did a great job giving everyone personality
November 12, 2025
I just finished the After the Rift series and really enjoyed the characters and storyline, but The Warrior Priest fell a little flat for me. I know it’s a standalone, and maybe that’s why the character development felt limited, getting to know characters over a full series is a completely different experience.
That said, I did enjoy the novel overall. The plot moved at a steady pace, and the story itself was engaging. I especially appreciated the HEA ending and it wrapped things up nicely.
All in all, it was a good read, but I couldn’t help wishing it had been expanded into a 2 or 3 book series. I would’ve loved to learn more about Jac’s lineage and how Rhys came to join the priesthood. There’s definitely more story there I would love to read.
That said, I did enjoy the novel overall. The plot moved at a steady pace, and the story itself was engaging. I especially appreciated the HEA ending and it wrapped things up nicely.
All in all, it was a good read, but I couldn’t help wishing it had been expanded into a 2 or 3 book series. I would’ve loved to learn more about Jac’s lineage and how Rhys came to join the priesthood. There’s definitely more story there I would love to read.
October 11, 2025
I haven't found a book by C.J. Archer that I didn't like. Still haven't. Even though this takes place in the After the Rift universe, it can be read as a stand alone story.
The Warrior Priest is full of action, fighting, stealing, bad guys (lots of bad guys), and coming of age. And learning who and what you are and really want to be. And magic, and goodness, too much to mention! This book is by C.J. Archer after all. This is one of those books that you plan on reading for just a short time and end up stopping 2 hours later!
So if you haven't read any of Archer's books, this is a good start to see how addictive they are! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
The Warrior Priest is full of action, fighting, stealing, bad guys (lots of bad guys), and coming of age. And learning who and what you are and really want to be. And magic, and goodness, too much to mention! This book is by C.J. Archer after all. This is one of those books that you plan on reading for just a short time and end up stopping 2 hours later!
So if you haven't read any of Archer's books, this is a good start to see how addictive they are! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
February 1, 2026
This book is, unfortunately, only okay. As part of a larger series there are long passages of exposition to explain what is happening rather than allowing the story to develop, and in order to avoid spoilers for that larger story some important pieces of information are just missing. I get it. I feel like that trying to create a stand alone story, that still takes place within the overall storyline of a larger series, limited what the author was able to do. I do want to read the bigger series, but this specific book fell flat for me.
September 6, 2025
I really love CJ Archer's books and characters. I've read quite a few of her books/series over the past year and will usually pause on whatever I'm reading to read a new release.
I read this book before the After the Rift series--so I guess I know what my next reads are going to be. I loved Jac--all of Archer's MFC really (India, Sylvia..). They all have similarities in their strengths and background. I'm glad they don't lose that strength/power even if they do fall in love.
I read this book before the After the Rift series--so I guess I know what my next reads are going to be. I loved Jac--all of Archer's MFC really (India, Sylvia..). They all have similarities in their strengths and background. I'm glad they don't lose that strength/power even if they do fall in love.
October 9, 2025
Can never go wrong with C.J. Archer.
I apparently can never go wrong with C.J. Archer. I just absolutely love her series. She always has characters I instantly love, a lovable atmosphere, moments that wraps around your emotions and never let go, and exciting adventures and mysteries. And this one had exactly all that.
I apparently can never go wrong with C.J. Archer. I just absolutely love her series. She always has characters I instantly love, a lovable atmosphere, moments that wraps around your emotions and never let go, and exciting adventures and mysteries. And this one had exactly all that.
November 4, 2025
this was a fun story. I didn't realize at the time that it was a story set in a world already created from another series by C.J. Archer, but I'm excited to explore those other books after reading this one.
Forbidden love, a touch of mystery, and interesting plot line. I always love a book by Archer!
Forbidden love, a touch of mystery, and interesting plot line. I always love a book by Archer!
September 19, 2025
The Warrior Priest
This book was very enjoyable to read. I hope there will be a sequel. The main character was an amazing woman. The twist and turns to the book made the read even adventurous.
This book was very enjoyable to read. I hope there will be a sequel. The main character was an amazing woman. The twist and turns to the book made the read even adventurous.
September 29, 2025
I loved the first quarter of the book. But then it got bogged down in the author trying to thread a very difficult needle --- tell us just enough about another book to make us want to read it without giving anything away. Still, the characters kept me reading until the end.
January 2, 2026
I would say this was my least favorite of CJ Archers books. I think once the secret was out the focus should have followed suit and it could have been more about a badass women saving herself…. Instead it just read as a women who only was looking for a man.
September 4, 2025
Love it!
It was so fun to experience Rhys and Jac's story! The characters are great and hope to be able to spend more time with them in the future.
It was so fun to experience Rhys and Jac's story! The characters are great and hope to be able to spend more time with them in the future.
September 7, 2025
enjoyed visiting this world again
Great story
Great story
September 9, 2025
So glad to be back in the After the Rift world. Good story!
September 10, 2025
My favorite author strikes a 5 star again!! I always want more!! 💕
September 15, 2025
Fantastic story!
September 17, 2025
Dang a C. J. Archer book that isn’t an incredibly long slow burn?? Not bad
September 19, 2025
Excellent novel. I think young adult readers will love it.
September 21, 2025
Very engaging and clean
September 28, 2025
Wish there was more to come. I love this world
October 6, 2025
I wasted my Spotify audiobook hours on this seemingly AI generated book😭 a rushed trope formula with no heart behind it is nothing I want anything to do with
January 4, 2026
crazy betrayals, twists and turns, and such a pure love story all thrown in one 🤞🏼
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2026
Plenty of action for Priest
So glad I was able to find this book and read it. Nothing was given away but I had already heard the entire audio series, from my local library.
So glad I was able to find this book and read it. Nothing was given away but I had already heard the entire audio series, from my local library.
September 17, 2025
I Love this book and the author. Wonderful love story, great characters.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews