Empire of Death

Death #6

by Penelope Barsetti

With my father indisposed, I become Queen of the Southern isles -- and it's the heaviest responsibility of my life. I know the Barbarians will come for the kingdom, and I have to prepare for war.

But I don't have to do it alone...because Wrath is with me. My advisor and my protector, he helps me secure the aid of my allies, helps me remember my strength. And when I become lost in despair, he tells me I can do this. That I'm the only one who can do this.

The God of the Underworld is my silent partner, a powerful ally that no one can see, and it becomes clear there's nothing he won't do for me. He watches my back when I trust no one else to do it. He helps me move pieces across the board against the Barbarians. My mother and brother grow suspicious of my powers, and I grow tired of telling them lies.

Despite being swallowed by misery, as time goes by, it becomes harder not to fall for this man. And he doesn't bother hiding it either. Wears his heart on his sleeve and bares his loyalty like the crest in his armor.

Except there's no way for us to be together...ever. He says there's no escape for him in the Underworld, that this is all we'll ever be. That he'll help me win this war and then leave me to find someone I deserve.

But he's the man I want -- and I won't stop until I find a way.

Genres: Fantasy, Dragons, Romance, Vampires, Dark Romance, Epic, Romantasy

400 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 15, 2025

About the author

Penelope Barsetti is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Her beloved novels have sold more than 5 Million copies, and her work has been translated into a dozen languages. Readers may know her by another name, Penelope Sky, where she writes contemporary dark romance.

An avid wine drinker, napper, and Netflix junkie, she lives in California with her family, but if she could live anywhere, it would be Florence, Italy. For those familiar with her work, you’ll know exactly why that’s the case.

Fantasy Romance is her favorite genre to read, and she’s excited to release her own novels into the world.

Reviews

[Trish Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

They say the course of true love never runs smoothly and they’re not wrong. Lilly and Wrath aka Callum have found an unlikely love given he is literally the God of the Underworld, once a man, now long passed away who commands the dead, a power he bestows on Lilly along with all his strength so she can fight and win an all encompassing war that’s headed her way. Talon her beloved father is totally incapacitated after being struck with a cursed golden sword so there’s also a cure to find.
Her relationship is slowly being uncovered, Zehmoth knows her like no other and can feel all her emotions, Hawk knows there’s something not adding up too, she’s being pulled in all directions trying to be brave and do the right thing for the sake of her people and her father.
This maybe a war she can’t possibly win, Callum has been discovered and sent to a space he can’t escape, he can’t even say goodbye.
This is such a massive cliffhanger !!!!!
Praying that love wins this battle, can’t wait for the next chapter … BRILLIANT absolutely Brilliant

[Ceacea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: Dark Fantasy Romance
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger: Yes

Noteworthy: Book 2 in the 2nd generation (Book 6 in the larger series). This series so far is 8 books split into 4 per story with books 5-8 being the 2nd generation. Dual first-person POV. Available on KU.

The God of Death works to navigate the web he's weaved while trying to keep the woman he loves safe. This 2nd installment is mostly Wrath trying to work his way out of the grave he's buried himself in while being resigned to it.

This series as a whole is amazing. While there is some good action and forwarding of the plot in this book, it still suffers a bit from middle book syndrome. We got no resolutions but lots more problems.

Heading into the next book now.

[Shanaya Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like it’s been forever since I read a Penelope Sky/Barsetti novel and Empire of Death did not disappoint. Lily and Wrath are the power couple of the year. I love the way their energy radiants off of the pages when they’re together. Lily’s confidence is getting stronger by the day. She is determined to not let her father down and bring down the Barbarians by any means necessary. Wrath is right by her side giving her his strength and his power. But with power comes consequences and unfortunately for Lily and Wrath those consequences have caught up to the both of them. With sibling rivalry, allies becoming foes, and past flames coming back to the surface Lily has to become stronger than ever. The cliff hanger left me devastated but also anxiously waiting for the final book of the series. Lily and Wrath love story is going to go down in the history of epic love stories. Their journey has been nothing but obstacles but I know in the end true love is going to win.

[Cindy Eckerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Empire of Death is an incredible continuation of Penelope Barsetti’s death series.
War is on the horizon as the Barbarians rise, sailing golden ships that never sink and wielding blades so deadly they can take down humans and even dragons. Queen Lily Lena Rothschild carries the weight of her wounded father’s legacy, the safety of her people, and the ache of a love she can’t truly have, her connection to Wrath, the God of the Underworld, once known as Callum. Their love is the heartbeat of this story. It’s endless, powerful, and deeply emotional…the kind that survives even when the world seems set against it. Every moment between them is full of longing, devotion, and quiet strength. Wrath’s defiance and his willingness to give her power, hope, and protection even when it costs him everything 🥺 it completely broke me 💔
This book universe is so vivid with many regions and characters at play, the pacing is intense and the emotion constant. Each chapter brings you deeper into the chaos of war and the pull of love and loyalty. You feel every battle, every heartbreak, every impossible choice.
Empire of death isn’t just another fantasy romance, it’s an unforgettable story about love that defies fate, gods, and time itself. A must read for anyone who craves depth, passion, and a little bit of pain into every page.
Also who doesn’t love dragons? 🐉 🔥 ⚔️

[Megan Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG… that was effing fantastic!!!


Penelope Barsetti has officially ripped my heart out and stomped on it….in the best possible way. Empire of Death (Book 6 in the Death Series) isn’t just a story, it’s an emotional gut punch wrapped in flawless storytelling, rich character development, and the kind of tension that leaves your pulse racing.


Lily and Wrath. My God. I didn’t just fall in love with them….I lived inside their love story. Every glance, every argument, every tender moment feels real. Penelope builds them so deeply that you forget they’re fictional. But it’s not just the romance that hooks you…it’s the world, the pacing, and the way every thread pulls tighter until you’re clutching your chest and whispering, “no, no, no” as the last chapter hits.


And that cliffhanger?  No freaking words.

No exaggeration…this is the most heartbreaking, jaw-dropping, scream-into-your-pillow ending I’ve ever read. The kind of ending that makes you want to throw your Kindle across the room and then immediately go back and reread every page to make sure you didn’t miss something.


Five stars isn’t enough.

This book is a masterclass in emotional destruction and brilliant storytelling and it's utterly perfect!!


I need the next one….like yesterday!!

[Laura Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

That ending got me 😭😩 DONT PLAY WITH OUR EMOTIONS CALLUM! The continuing of this story goes deeper into war and how Lily prepares with dragon and vampire oh my! Their love keeps growing but you can tell in this story…it’s possibly at and ending point? CAllum is realizing he can’t offer Lily a full life with children and a happily ever after…at the end…he goes silent and Lily can no longer communicate. Is this the end!? 😭💔 need the next book!!

[Bobbie Ullom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow this story gets even more thrilling. I wish I would have done a re-read before because I lost some of the details that mattered. Wrath and Lily are an amazing duo! Can't wait to see what happens next.

[Kareen Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Boy has Penelope Sky taken us on a wild ride of emotions. There is not too much hot and steamy scenes but the content makes up for it.
Lily was made Queen of the Southern Isles because her father, King Talon Rothschild, has not healed from his mortal wounds. Talon has been on the brink of death since he was wounded fighting the war on queen Eldinar’s Kingdom. The Dragons are the only reason he is still alive until the antidote is found.
Lily and Wrath’s, the god of the underworld, romantic relationship is always in danger of ending but do not know if or when it will happen. Lily doesn’t know that Wrath is in danger of losing his position of the God of the Underworld and doesn’t know what he has done for the Barbarian and feels she will never want him again. Wrath has given Lily all his gifts of a god to help her win wars and especially for the way he has always felt for her.
War is imminent and is coming their way Lily and Wrath have traveled to each of their allies and requested help. The Kings and Queens have agreed to help win the war because the Barbarians will come for their kingdoms. The one exception is King Ithaca, he did not give her a definite answer and she doesn’t know if he will. He is not to r trusted. Lily tried to tell him what will befall him but he wouldn’t listen.
The Southern Isles are in great danger of being taken over by Kennt, a Barbarian and his Barbarian army. They have gold ships and cannons that sail faster than other ships. They also fight with gold swords that inflicts wounds that do not heal. They have rebuilt part of their ships to accommodate their newest weapons against the dragons. There is only one antidote to heal them and it’s platinum, a material that is rare and has not been seen. All their allies are helping to find it but no luck so far. Kennt is the only one that knows where it’s located and wants it eradicated.
Wrath did not give Kennt his request of the gifts of a god that he wanted that he is giving his soul for. The powers Wrath gave him, he believes are not the same. He then made his request to make him and his army into something else. The Barbarian said with this request they will be equal with the gifts he gave Lily. Kennt says that they will be able to win the wars because they will have immortality and amunition which will defeat Lily, queen of the Southern Isles along with all her allies of the other kingdoms and the dragons. He will be ruler of everyone and have world domination. Once he has taken over he will have control of the dragons and he will make Queen Lily Rothschild his wife and bear his children.
Kennt threatens Wrath that he will go to the covenant and tell them what he has done if he doesn’t give him the same abilities as the Queen of the Southern Isles and make her pay the same price for the gifts he gave her. He’s not taking Lily’s soul for what he’s given her and for interfering with the living. Will he actually go through with threats?
Lily’s brother, Hawk, and her commander continue to try to come up with strategies plus have to make a decision to ask the dragons to fight with them to win this war.
This is just a glimpse of this amazing story. But I can’t believe she gave us such a tremendous cliffhanger which made me feel even more emotional. Penelope Sky is a phenomenal author! Read her books and series and you won’t be disappointed.

[Vic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Empire of Death is the 6th book in the Death King series. Lily is now the Queen. While her father is bedridden and her mother is at his side, Lily is left in charge. With her brother by her side, they embark on a journey to find allies who will help fight for their kingdom. We get a closer look at the bond between Lily and her brother and the differences between them. She has to prepare for everything, but she knows she’s not alone. Wrath will always be there with her. He will help her no matter what he hast to do or what rules he has to break. He says he will be there until they win the war and then he will leave her so she can find someone to spend her life with. Will he be able to let her go? Will his strength and her dragons be enough to win?

Lillian and Wrath’s connection is even deeper in this book. Their chemistry is undeniable. It becomes harder for Lily to hide how she feels about him. She is worried someone will find out. Wrath has been open about how much he cares for her. Although it pains him, he asks her to just enjoy the time they have together. That he will help her win this war and asks her to accept his guidance. He knows they will not be together forever, but he wants to spend as much time as he can with her. However, she refuses to believe that and she doesn’t want to be with someone else. She wants to be with Wrath. One thing about Lily, she is very stubborn. She will not stop until she finds a way for them to be together no matter what it takes. How far will she go to be with Wrath? Will it put her in danger?

Penelope Barsetti took me back into the underworld where we got to see more of what Wrath’s life is about. We get to see everything he’s in charge of and the loneliness he feels. I felt so bad for Lily because she is trapped between a rock and a hard place. No matter how much she wants to be with him, he makes it absolutely clear that they don’t have a happy ending. We feel her pain when she is hiding her secret and spending time with him like it is her last. What will happen when everyone starts finding out? This book wrecked me in so many ways. I was crying for most of it. It kept me on the edge of my seat, and that cliffhanger ending had me sobbing. It is a beautiful story and I cannot wait to see how it ends.

[Dora Harvey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is a good book—a page turner indeed!! That cliffhanger… making me wait with bated breath! EMPIRE OF DEATH is the 6th book in the Death Series. I couldn’t begin to put it down. So many twists and turns. This book ripped my heart out and stomped all over it—leaving behind a bloody mess. This story oozes with lust, desire, revenge, danger, and drags you deep into its darkness, intrigue, and suspense that is all rolled up into one deliciously dark and twisted package. Mesmerized once again by Penelope Barsetti’s brilliance, this dark fantasy is an addictive story with a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the story with jaw-dropping twists. This is the continuation of Wrath (Callum) and Lily Rothschild’s bittersweet love story.

Princess Lily became Queen of the Southern Isles when her father became unwell after a war that made him incapacitated. Although the thought of taking over as Queen was very daunting, but she has the help of Wrath, God of the Underworld, who is her protector, lover, and advisor. Lily and Wrath’s relationship is a forbidden one—one that is very intense, and one in which no one would understand—especially her father. Lily will surprise you because she becomes a force to be reckoned with. Despite their differences, the chemistry between Wrath and Lily is undeniable and off-the-chart HOT! Can Lily resist the comfort of Wrath’s embrace without her family finding out? When an enemy threatens the Southern Isles peace, will Wrath interfere with the living battle? When Wrath finds out what Lily has to do to beat her enemies, he becomes progressively protective and will do whatever he needs to do to keep Lily and her family safe. Going against the Covenants rules, Wrath gifts Lily his strength and some powers. Then an incident occurred, and it will affect both Wrath and Lily? Will Wrath be able to continue to protect Lily? What happens next? Well, read this amazing story and find out. Penelope Barsetti delivered a powerful and emotional, intense, and all-consuming story that left me obsessed. You won’t regret reading Empire of Death (Book 6). I highly RECOMMEND this book!

[Lory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penelope Barsetti does it again Empire of Death (Book 6 in the Death Series) isn’t just a continuation, it’s a masterstroke. This book is an emotional gut punch wrapped in elegant prose, breathtaking world building, and characters so vivid you’ll swear they live and breathe just beyond the page.

Lily Rothschild has never faced higher stakes. With her father, King Talon, gravely wounded and her mother consumed by grief, she steps into the role of Death Queen granted the power of the Underworld by Wrath himself. Her brother, Hawk, questions her every move. Allies are fractured. Enemies circle. And war is no longer a looming threat it’s here.

Then there’s Wrath. God of the Underworld. Dark, powerful, impossible not to love. His devotion to Lily burns through every page, but his duty to the dead keeps him shackled. Their love is intense, messy, forbidden and completely, utterly addictive. Every glance, every fight, every whisper between them is charged with so much emotion, it practically hums. I didn’t just root for them I lived inside their love story.

But nothing comes easy in this world. As Lily navigates the brutal politics of war, strained family ties, and mounting pressure, Wrath is keeping a secret that could shatter everything they’ve built. And that cliffhanger? I have no words. None. It’s the kind that makes you want to throw your Kindle into a wall and then dive right back in to reread every moment. It broke me. Completely.

This story is love and loss, fire and ice, duty and desire, all woven into a pulse pounding narrative that will leave you breathless. Dragons, battles, secrets, passion it has everything.

If you haven't started this series, drop everything. If you’re already invested, prepare yourself Empire of Death raises the stakes in every way imaginable.
You owe it to yourself to feel this book.

📌 As always, this review is 100% voluntary and uncompensated. Just one emotionally wrecked reader shouting into the void.

[Denise O · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Empire of Death takes place after the events of the Princess of Death , where Lily can command the army of the dead, her dad is still between life and death with the love of his dragon Khazmuda keeping him alive. She is still unaware of Wrath’s deal with the Barbarians.

This by far was the most captivating, emotional book of the series. Lily taking over from her father becoming the Queen of the Southern Isles while he is still incapacitated.

She doubts her ability to lead her people but there is one person who never once doubted her, who believed in her capabilities to lead her people and who gave her advice when she needed it and that was Wrath.

Lily also bears the weight of her relationship with Wrath keeping it a secret from everyone she loves, knowing that her father wouldn’t agree with it especially with what happen to him with the previous God of the underworld.

The love Lily and Wrath have for each other, the sadness for a future they cannot have for she is life and he is death.
Wrath doesn’t want to be the God of the underworld anymore since meeting Lily she bought light back into his life.
“I am here because your heart is the place I call home”♥️♥️♥️♥️
Because of what happened to her father, alliances may become enemies as history always repeats itself . The Barbarians lost their humanity, they only believe in savagery and brutality and they are coming for Lily and the Southern Isles.
Wrath sees Lily as his equal , he would never let her sacrifice her soul because of a deal me made a lifetime ago.Lily has given her heart to him, there is no one else for her.

“My heart never sang for anyone the way it sang for him”

I absolutely adore the relationship between Lily and her dragon Zehemoth his loyalty to her knows no bounds and she would protect him at all cost and when he says

“You are the queen of my heart and my kingdom “

What an epic fantasy read if you haven’t read it ,you’re missing out. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Sierra J · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am going to be completely honest, the first half of this book didn't hook me in like I hoped it would, and I felt like the spicy scenes were a bit similar/repetitive. But the second half of the book? EPIC. That cliffhanger was BRUTAL (insert emotional damage 🥲) and I genuinely don't know how my heart will survive the wait until the next book! 💔

Wrath and Lily’s love is forbidden in both worlds. Wrath, the God of the Underworld, is cold and dead inside, but he feels for her. Lily, a hardened warrior princess, carries the weight of her kingdom and has an undeniable soft spot for him. When Wrath grants her his power—immense strength and the ability to raise the dead—to help win the war threatening her family and the dragons, he commits an act of treason that could have devestating consequences and ultimately destroy him. And just when you think you know who’s pulling the strings…their enemies are moving the chess pieces against them.

In a race against time to save her father, her kingdom, and the dragons—will Lily be able to save them all, as well as the man she loves? Or will all be lost and their love story end before it ever truly begins?

Though it had a slower start for me, I do recommend reading Empire Of Death and the rest of the series. That ending made it all worth it, even with that brutal cliffhanger. The emotions it put my heart through are exactly why I love reading fantasy! ⚔️

[Anika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Empire of Death is a breathtaking addition to Penelope Barsetti’s Death series. Tension mounts as war looms on the horizon—an unstoppable force of Barbarians approaches, sailing unsinkable golden ships and wielding blades sharp enough to bring down both mortals and dragons. At the center of it all is Queen Lily Lena Rothschild, burdened by her father’s legacy, the survival of her kingdom, and a love that feels just out of reach. Her bond with Wrath, the God of the Underworld formerly known as Callum, pulses through the story like a living force—fierce, timeless, and soul-deep.

Their connection is layered with yearning and devotion, filled with quiet moments of strength and sacrifice. Wrath’s rebellion against fate and his unwavering commitment to empower and protect Lily, even at great personal cost, is both devastating and beautiful.

The worldbuilding is rich and expansive, with intricate politics, warring lands, and memorable characters. The pacing is relentless, pulling you through scenes of brutal conflict, aching tenderness, and impossible choices. Every chapter heightens the emotional intensity, immersing you fully in the clash between love and war.

Empire of Death isn’t just a fantasy romance—it’s a sweeping, unforgettable tale about a love strong enough to challenge gods, destiny, and time itself. It’s perfect for readers who crave depth, intensity, and a touch of heartbreak woven through every page.

[Sue Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Empire of Death completely pulled me in from the very first chapter. Penelope Sky knows exactly how to write a dark, emotional story that keeps you on edge and addicted. The connection between Wrath and Lily was everything — intense, heartbreaking, and beautiful in the most unexpected ways. Their story wasn’t easy to read at times, but that’s what made it so powerful.

I loved how their relationship grew through all the chaos and danger, showing both vulnerability and strength. Wrath’s character especially surprised me — complex, flawed, but impossible not to care about. And Lily’s courage and heart made her the perfect match for him.

The writing was sharp, the emotions raw, and the chemistry between them absolutely unforgettable. By the time I finished, I felt completely wrecked (in the best possible way). This book reminds you why Penelope Sky has such a loyal following — she knows how to mix darkness with deep emotion and make it feel real.

And I have to say — I’m really hoping Hawk gets his own story someday. There’s definitely more to him, and I’d love to see what Penelope Sky does with his character next.

If you love dark romance with characters who stay with you long after the last page, Empire of Death is a must-read.

[Shannon Carder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely Obsessed With This World

Empire of Death completely blew me away. Penelope continues to raise the bar with every book, but this one… it just hits different. The world feels bigger, darker, and more dangerous than ever - and I was hooked from page one.
Lily’s journey is equal parts inspiring and heartbreaking. She’s stepping into her power, but every win comes with a cost, and watching her navigate loyalty, love, and betrayal had my heart in knots. And Wrath? He’s the perfect mix of fierce protector and beautifully broken. Their bond is fire and fragility all at once, and I could read a hundred books about them and still crave more.
The side characters shine too - I’m shocked to say I’m finally on Team Hawk, and the situation with Talon has me on edge. Add in dragons (which I will always obsess over), high stakes, and jaw-dropping twists… and you’ve got a book that refuses to let you breathe.
And THAT ending. I’m still not okay. I need the next book immediately because I have no idea how things can possibly be fixed - but I trust Penelope to rip my heart out and piece it back together again.
If you love fantasy romance with tension, sacrifice, and a love story worth fighting for, this series is a must-read. Absolutely phenomenal.

[Diana I · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is another 5 star read. Penelope knows how to grip your soul and take you through all the emotions. Talon is still hanging on to life with the love of his dragons. While his daughter Lily is searching for the cure and preparing for war against the barbarians. She was appointed queen while her father is fighting for his life. She has so much going on trying to prove to her brother she deserves to rule the southern isles, trying to save her people and form alliances with surrounding colonies. Going to battle because of king Ithaca greed to claim dragons and eternal life. And loving a man,a god of the underworld who is forbidden. She loves him with everything she is and dreams of a future she may never get but she’s not willing to give up or move on. He is the only man for her. Callum/Wrath god of the underworld has been found out for interfering with the living and stripped of his powers. Where will this leave Lily, heartbroken, powerless with the impending war looming around the corner. This cliffhanger is brutal. I can’t wait to see how Penelope wraps this series up in the next book.

[Kim Lackey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book wrecked me. I’m so in love with Callum/Wrath!

Lily Rothschild is in a battle to save her father and her people of the Southern Isles. Wrath, God of the Underworld, has fallen madly in love with Lily and granted her his strength and command of the dead. She is the Death Queen now.

But there is a new group of Barbarians with ships and weapons made of gold that cause wounds that can’t heal. They want to conquer the Southern Isles and the Rothschild’s family. With Talon, her father among the injured, Lily is now the Queen of the Southern Isles and must find a way to defeat them and find the antidote to heal her father.

Wrath is caught between his love for Lily and the responsibility of the underworld. He wants nothing more than to leave the underworld and be with Lily. But his life isn’t his own. You don’t leave the underworld. He has kept a secret from Lily that could cost him her love.

This is an exceptional book. Packed with such raw emotion. I can’t wait for the final book.

[Carol Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

after King Talon Rothschild was wounded in the battle of Riviana his daughter Lily takes up the mantle and becomes the Death Queen. Her brother Hawk is designated general of the army, but he continually questions why Lily was made Queen. With her mother devastated by Talons injuries and her brother not 100% on board, Lily finds herself embroiled in several skirmishes defending her allies and her people along with the dragons. Fortunately she does have support from Wrath who gives her his strength and his command of the Dead as God of the Underworld. As they defeat their enemies the feelings they have between them grow. Wrath feeling things he hasn't felt in hundreds of years does not feel worthy of Lily's love, and she is determined to help him escape the underworld. what follows is total turmoil between the battles with the enemy, the battle between themselves as Wrath does not want to put Lily in danger in the underworld. This book is full of up and downs, in and outs, suspense, and love. you owe it to yourself to read this book!

[Arin Baur · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed reading this book with each crazy adventure these characters have to face and figure out I feel myself get more excited sucked into the series! I was happily surprised to get to know the king’s son alongside the growing chemistry of the steamy not so couple. There is so much strength, growth in this book I felt like a proud family member I personally couldn’t bear to see the struggles this amazing family go through I hope things get better in the future! Wrath is full of all types of surprises I can’t believe he is where he is I really like his character and determination. So much things to learn, leave you wanting more right away, ups and downs overall great continuation to a epic series that has my heart all over the place, me laughing and vibes of don’t mess with this family or their beloved dragons or your start something you will regret and there is no going back once you set their sights on you and the damage you are causing!
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
SteamyWonderful charactersPage-turnerHauntingFunnyAction-packedRealisticTwistedEasy-to-read

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is spectacular. It took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions. The characters pull you right in to their storyline. You feel like you are right there with them. There is non stop action, drama, fears, desires and more. This is a must read book and series. This author writes so independently that it plays like a movie in your head as you read. I can not wait for more from this author. Now a little about the characters and their story. King Talon Rothschild was wounded in the battle of Riviana. Lily, his beloved daughter takes up the crown and becomes the Death Queen. Her brother Hawk is now general of the army, but he is not satisfied. Wrath God of the Underworld supports Lily and gifts her powers. But at what cost? Can they really be together? How? Will Hawk support her or go after his own agenda? Can she defend her lands against her enemies? Check the book out and see! So worth it.

[Montana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured this entire story that I don’t even know if I stopped to eat. This book gave me good anxiety which I didn’t even know was possible, forreal. Like, I was worried for everyone and whenever there was any type of battle. The pining between Wrath and Lily even though they were right in front of each other is amazing and you’re just rooting for them and their HEA. I know we’re all trying to find an out/loophole for them right along with the main characters. The spice was absolutely delicious because it was pure love every time they came together when they had their stolen moments. Not only are we(as readers) trying to think of ways to help Lily but also the anxiousness you know we’re all feeling for Talon. Like COME ON. Penelopeeeeeee! Why you gotta do us like that!? AGAIN? This cliffhanger, good god woman, just not fair! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book, they get better and better. 150,000,000/10!

[tastewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was excellent. For me, it was more of an adventure story than a romance. Fantasy is something I generally don't read, I think this author is my first dip into the fantasy genre. It's interesting to me how these creatures; dragons, vampires, "orcs", demons, pirates, etc., all exist in one world.

Lily Lena Rothschild is a bad ass, a woman who had the throne thrust on her due to her father's illness. She doubts herself constantly but with an equally bad ass man behind her, Wrath (cool name by the way), she navigates her way through many storms (literally).

Will Talon survive? Will he forgive Lily when he finds out about her and Wrath? Will Lilly go back to the vampire now that Wrath/Callum may not be in the picture? I suppose we will find out the answers to these questions with the next installment. This book ended so abruptly, that I said "dang it" out loud and got some strange looks. :O)
I'm looking forward to the next book!

[Shanjida Nusrath Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Firstly, Penelope Barsetti owes me for my therapy bills because my god this book left me as a crying mess. I was shattered, heartbroken and completely broken for my man Callum. He didn't deserve that at the end ;( I really hope he gets his HEA in the next book, if not I'm sending my therapy bills to Penelope Barsetti.

Now back to the review, it was an absolute splendid read. I loved my queen Lily taking over and fighting back like a true ruler. She's fierce, she's strong, she's kind, she's EVERYTHING. Absolutely loved her in this book. And Callum? He is now on my book boyfriend list because he has my heart. This man is absolute book boyfriend goals and I NEED HIM TO HAVE HIS HEA.
Overall the story was great, flowed very well, showed some realistic perspectives on kingdoms and the hidden deceit. It was packed with action, love, yearning, heartbreak, and so much more.

A great read as always from Penelope Barsetti. She never disappoints with her epic fantasy romance books <3

[belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

a defiant love, an all-encompassing war, and an epic cliffhanger

Empire of Death, is a magnificent, emotionally devastating continuation where the stakes are immense.and its core is the defiant love of Lily and Callum. Their powerful, endless bond is the heartbeat of the story, even as the world stands against them.
War is brewing with ruthless barbarians, forcing Lily to embrace her growing power and strength to defend her people and find a cure for Talon. Pene brings you to a a vivid universe filled with personal conflict—sibling rivalries, past flames, and the intense pull of loyalty in every battle—alongside the chaos of war and the presence of dragons.
Penelope served and if you’re craving sweeping fantasy, intense action, and a defiant romance, (and a really good book) this is a mandatory read.
Also that breathtaking cliffhanger left me absolutely gripped and desperately waiting for the final chapter NOW

[Donna Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Empire of Death triggered all my emotions. I was all over the map with the exceptional writing talent of Penelope Barestti.

The intensity of the relationship between Lily Rothschild and Wrath is the focus in this installment.

War is almost at Lily's doorstep. Wrath has assisted Lily with some of his powers as God of the Underworld. Wrath does this only out of love for Lily.

We visit old friends and hopefully new allies who will come to the aide of Queen Lily.

Make no mistake this is a torrid love story. Lily's love for her I'll father, the dragons and her people have her with Wrath love and special powers attempting to live up to her title Queen Rothschild.

My heart was crushed by the cliffhanger. Penelope has 1 more installment for us and I am anxiously awaiting its arrival.
It is a great honor to be a member of this ARC group.

[marshas_world_of_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this world! I love everything about it, especially the dragons! Shocking I know. Through this book I’ve decided I finally like Hawk, he’s grown and come a long way. The tension over Talon and finding a cure for him is killing me. I mean if that situation isn’t worked out I riot! By riot I mean throw my kindle like a toddler. Then there’s this moment that made my heart race for the safety of one of the dragons. Last but not least of course is Lily and Wrath. Wrath is such a beautiful tortured soul that you can’t help but love. The way he and Lily compliment each other is just perfection as well. The ending though! I don’t know how our amazing author is going to work that situation out in the next book, but I need the answer so bad. I of course recommend this book, it is just so good!!

[Brendee Vee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this series had me in a chokehold since the first book and it didn’t let up! The story continues for Lily and Wrath and what a story of being completely devoted to another person looks like on the pages. This book has you on an emotional ride from love and fear and pride and dedication. I loved watching Lily step into her own, having to face the fierce Barbarians that were coming, and being without her mom and dad, her growth is awesome to witness. When I say I will read and always enjoy every single book Penelope writes, I say that with my whole heart because she weaves a story like few others can. One thing I would change is these cliffhangers she writes so carefully into her stories because my heart can’t handle waiting! A must read for too many reasons to state in one review.

Thank you Penelope for this ARC, this is my honest review.

[Tiffany Freeman · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 ⭐
2.5/5 🌶️

Man, I am just along for the ride with Lily and Wrath/Callum. I still have no idea where this is gonna lead and how things are gonna get resolved at this point, but I am HERE for it. Their relationship is just blossoming but I really can't see the way out of Wrath's predicament just yet. I'm feeling like I did with Talon's story where I have no idea what's gonna happen next, but I can't wait to see where this goes. I'm also putting a pin in the sibling side plot because I wonder if there's gonna be something big with this, too. Having Talon being in this coma is really stressing me out, cuz if something happens to him, I'm gonna absolutely lose it. And the cliffhanger almost had me throwing my kindle across the room. Once again, another great continuation with action, driven plots, and some great spice. Excited and ready for the next one already!

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is absolutely spellbinding. The world building is is exceptional. We are transported to a kingdom that's being war torn. There is so much emotion, angst, and heartbreak. Lily is trying to protect her dragons, her kingdom, and save her father all while navigating falling in love with Wrath, the king of the underworld. He might be the worst possible person for her to fall for, but he's the only man she's ever loved. Wrath has been captivated by Lily since he first laid eyes on her. He has stood by her side and broken rules he was never supposed to break. There love may be forbidden but it is all consuming. Will he be able to break free from the bonds that hold him prisoner? Will Lily prevail and save all those she loves? We unfortunately will have to wait to find out in the next book.