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Peacebringer: Orders of the First Family: Book One

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Case
The Crown Prince of the Hunters has been training in combat for years, but he struggles to use his element. He’s sheltered and abused by his overbearing father, who is constantly disappointed in Case’s inability to wield his magic. To top it off, the orders are at war and have been for centuries. To finally have peace between the hunters and the demons, Case is expected to marry one.

Isha
The Goddess of Love & War may be bold and brilliant, but she’s been hiding away from society and politics for a very long time. Now her brother, the King of the Gods, is asking her to marry a hunter. They don’t even realize the hunters believe them all to be demons. Isha has no interest in an arranged marriage and despite her desire to refuse, she reluctantly agrees anyway.

When the prophecies surrounding Case and Isha come to light, the two of them realize they both have a lot to learn as they navigate their magic, war, and their own unexpected feelings for one another. Isha must help Case realize his own power and lead him toward figuring out who he’s meant to be. The Peacebringer.

468 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2025

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About the author

Marie Maness

7 books35 followers
Author Marie Maness is a self published author that specializes in reimagined Mythology with a big helping of spice. Literature, writing, and history have always been her biggest passions. Combining them all into one has been a dream come true for the small town indie author. Born in Central Kentucky, she currently lives in South Central Kentucky with her husband and four children and loves the quiet little town life. Marie hopes her writing will encourage people everywhere to embrace their bodies and sexuality, to find pleasure in all of life’s aspects, and to remember that love is infinite.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Grace Btrs (semi ia - mostly overwhelmed).
428 reviews378 followers
September 5, 2025
📱 around 400 messages, 15 times cracking up, 3 discussions about ME food, 13 videos, 8 times of me being so sure of my theories while Marie laughed at me, and freaking out 4 times… I am alive but not too well.🤯

Welcome to Sumerian Mythology, Urban Fantasy Style 🏛️
where old world meets new, a goddess meets an innocent prince, prophecies fly everywhere, and chaos knock and casually moves in.

👑 Ishtar Reimagined and more
This is a reimagining of Ishtar’s story. But here, she agrees to an arranged marriage with a very sheltered prince.
Isha is modest yet powerful. She doesn’t flaunt her strength, but it’s there, undeniable. She’s wise, deeply caring toward her family, determined to stay on the moral compass… though let’s be honest, she’s got her flaws. She’s possessive, territorial, and you’ll love her all the more for it.

🌙 Our sweet and innocent prince
Case is not your typical MMC. Don’t expect the brooding powerhouse: he’s sheltered, innocent, and yes, you will want to scream at him to grow a backbone. He’s been abused, knocked down, and doesn’t even know how to wield his magic. But he is loyal to the core. He is our Peacebringer.

🌀 Prophecies, Secrets, & Meddling Creatures
Our fated consorts are supposed to usher in peace… or do they? Because when the prophecy starts unraveling, it’s not the only thing flipping lives upside down. Old family secrets, jealousy, meddling witches, shifters, hunters, demons, gods, and of course, our MCs’ own insecurities, threaten to tear everything apart. Their attraction and feelings grow quickly, but just as many root for their success as there are who desperately want them to fail.

🚨 What to expect…
Between the chaos and the charm, you will get scenes and the side characters that will have you laughing, pearl-clutching, and shrieking at least once.
And...... Cliffhanger. Equal parts scream-worthy and giddy-making. So dip your toes into urban magic, steamy dates, tangled prophecies, and a cast of characters you’ll definitely want to either strangle and laugh with.

💬 Behind the Scenes
I had the privilege of being part of this book’s journey, making sure it’s culturally accurate and appropriate, and yes, maybe begging (coercing??) Marie to give us more scenes and moments.

--
Pre-read:
*insert giddy Grace* I have the absolute privilege of beta reading this!
👑 Sheltered Prince
💍 Arranged marriage
❤️‍🔥 Goddess of love and war
⏳ Age gap romance (she's older)
🌶️ Virgin MMC (she teaches him)
⚔️ Centuries-old war
🌙 Sumerian mythology inspired
Profile Image for Missfit.
105 reviews6 followers
April 29, 2026
‎DNF @30%.

‎Did I just DNF a book with my favorite kink ever?

‎*Sobs* 🤧

‎That has never happened before 😭

‎I was so excited to read this book, so much that when I checked the author’s IG and saw my favorite kink listed in book two, I immediately thought, holy fisssshh, I need to hurry up 😱 I mean, what do you mean he’s a sheltered prince with daddy issues, arranged to marry a goddess who does THAT to him??? That sounds like the most delicious treat.

‎The fact that the author used Sumerian mythology instead of the usual Greek/Norse was a huge plus for me. Though I have to admit, I was a bit confused since the story is set in a ✨ modern world ✨

‎Unfortunately, the story didn’t work for me :(( How many times have we read about hunters chasing supernatural beings in an urban setting? Plenty. How many times have we seen supernatural creatures blending into modern society? Also plenty. But here, I’d start getting into the story, and then something modern like phones or jeans would pop up and completely pull me out. It made me feel like this story would’ve worked better in a more historical or fantasy setting not ughhh, America 😬

‎But the biggest issue for me is the characters.

‎Isha, the FMC, is described as a goddess of love and war who has lived for over a thousand years, a literal ruler of heaven, but she doesn’t act like it. For example, she doesn’t even know her own palace well enough and has to ask for directions.

‎"𝙄’𝙢 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙣𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙪𝙣𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙣. 𝘾𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥?"

‎That’s Isha speaking to a guard while trying to sneak in unnoticed. Gurl, how long have you lived there?

‎"𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙜𝙤𝙙-𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚, 𝘼𝙣𝙪."

‎I found it ironic that Isha says this to her brother when she herself doesn’t behave like a goddess. She giggles in serious situations, wears black to "avoid attention" while everyone else is dressed in bright colors, and openly admits she’s been with women just to not getting pregnant.

‎“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚.” 𝙄 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙛𝙮, 𝙧𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙨𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣. “𝙎𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙚𝙣𝙟𝙤𝙮𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚.”
‎“𝙎𝙝𝙚?” 𝙃𝙞𝙨 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙜𝙤 𝙬𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙡𝙮. “𝘼𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙨?”
‎“𝙄’𝙢… 𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙣.”

‎WTAF???

‎I’m sorry, but that felt disrespectful to sapphic relationships. It really disappointed me. I didn’t like how queerness was portrayed in this book, and it surprised me even more because the author has a pride flag on her account. WHY present it this way? Isha, baby, have you heard about ... Dildo or birth control? A 1000+ old goddess said this, where’s the wisdom?

‎On top of that, Isha gave me strong "not like other girls" energy. She’s described as so beautiful that other women are jealous. She’s polite and kind because she says thank you and befriends the cooks. Something other girls apparently don’t do because they're shallow or mean. At the same time, she’s extremely petite, that even the MMC’s 10 y.o brother is taller than her 🙂 It all felt very checklist driven, like the author was ticking off tropes rather than building a natural character.

‎Big guy/small girl? 𝘾𝙝𝙚𝙘𝙠.
‎Powerful FMC? 𝘾𝙝𝙚𝙘𝙠.
‎Bi character? 𝘾𝙝𝙚𝙘𝙠.

‎And so on.

‎The pacing didn’t help either. The story moves quickly without a solid foundation. By chapter four, the MMCs (who are complete strangers!!!) have already met, talked, and gotten married. This is a nearly 500 page book. Why so rushed???? Instead of jumping straight into the marriage, I think the discussion around the wedding should actually be shown. Let some characters support it, while others fight tooth and nail to shut it down. Build the tension. Don't make side characters as background cheerleaders. Here, no one stands out. No one truly challenges Case’s position, even though he’s supposedly unpopular. The plot relies on the characters, but the characters barely do anything.

‎Isha’s reason for entering the bride selection also felt weak. Her brother asks her to join just because he’s worried the MMC’s family might think they didn’t provide strong candidates ... Even though the other participants are literal demi goddesses???

‎And the MMC is just ... Human.

‎Case, the MMC, didn’t manage to save the book for me. I went in ready to adopt him. Who wouldn’t love a sweet, lost cinnamon roll who desperately needs a hug? But his POV felt much younger than his supposed age. I genuinely thought he was under 18. He’s described as a prodigy who graduated high school and started his degree at 13. THIRTEEN. And yet he never actually comes across as intelligent.

‎There’s even a scene where Isha gives him books about her world and family. He claims to read for 12 hours, yet seems to absorb nothing and ends up asking basic questions to another character with the SAME name as the FMC.

‎Which brings me to another issue: the names. There are so many that sound alike. Two Ishtars, two Inannas, then Nanna, Utu/Udug, and more. Even though the author provides the reason, it’s still hard to keep track. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with this many similar names. Even GOT with all its "ae" names was easier to follow because they were distinct enough: Aemma, Baela, Rhaenys, Rhaenyra. Similar, yes, but still recognizable.

‎I’m not saying there’s a strict template for how a goddess should behave, but I do think readers naturally come in with certain expectations. Other indie books like The Sleeping Goddesses and Artemis: Love in Stone and Stars manage to capture that divine presence while still allowing their goddesses to feel human. They can fall in love and still come across as mature. I honestly couldn’t tell the gods apart from humans because they felt so similar. They eat, sleep, exercise, get drunk. Nothing about them really sets them apart. Sure, Isha had one moment, but that felt OTT for me considering she didn't even know Case that well to feel jealous over him.

‎The scene where Isha says she’s going shopping made me cringe so hard. A goddess ... Shopping?? 😭 Girl, do none of your demonesses know how to sew? But her scenes with Eve was worst. Reading two women kissing usually made me smile, but this book is an exception after learning how Isha's feelings to Eve.

‎As far as I got, not much actually happens. There’s a lot of talking, but very little real communication. Isha hides her identity from Case while also claiming she wants to help him fulfill his potential and a prophecy. The dialogue often feels like extended exposition, bordering on info dumping. There’s even a scene where Case’s father mocks him for being a virgin, and it comes more like a reminder to the reader that heyya, he’s still a virgin. Again, very tropey.

‎In the end, this book shattered my expectations so much that I couldn’t bring myself to continue to book two even for that specific kink. Peacebringer reads more like YA, and it might’ve worked better if it fully leaned into that instead of presenting itself as adult.

‎I’m really sorry to the author that I had to stop here. It always makes me feel guilty to be one of the first to leave a negative review. Please know this makes me sad too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Olga Ziminska.
Author 2 books43 followers
November 5, 2025
Oh... my... GODS!
Marie Maness does it again!!
What an amazing start to a new series.

Peacebringer brings Sumerian mythology into the modern stage and wow... WOW!
Case is a fantastic MMC and watching him learn about himself as well as Isha's family is just wonderful. I love a good arranged marriage plot and this was chef's kiss. And the spice? My, my, my, let's just say I am SO excited for book 2! This introduction alone and all the characters who made me laugh, ache, and cry... I can't wait to find out what happens next!

Seriously, if you're interested in mythology, especially Sumerian mythology--you will LOVE this book. It's modern and witty and just so damn delightful.

Bravo Marie! I can't wait to get my shelf trophy!
Profile Image for Mimi.
189 reviews
January 18, 2026
Marie Maness has done it again—Peacebringer is a five-star, can’t-put-it-down read from start to finish.

Case, the Crown Prince of the Hunters, has spent years training for war, yet struggles to wield his elemental magic. Sheltered, abused, and constantly belittled by his father, Case is expected to shoulder the impossible burden of ending a centuries-long war by marrying a demon… or so he believes.

Isha, the Goddess of Love & War, has been hidden away from politics and society for years. When her brother, the King of the Gods, demands she enter an arranged marriage with a hunter, she reluctantly agrees—unaware that the hunters see her kind as demons. Isha wants no part of this union, yet fate has other plans.

As prophecies surrounding Case and Isha begin to unfold, both are forced to confront their magic, their roles in the war, and their growing feelings for each other. Isha helps Case discover his strength, his confidence, and who he’s truly meant to be—the Peacebringer. In turn, Case helps Isha lower her walls and learn how to love again.

These two have major main character energy. Together, they don’t just complement each other—they make each other stronger. Their emotional growth, chemistry, and shared journey completely stole my heart.

And that ending? That cliffhanger? Absolutely devastating. Marie, why would you do this to us?!

I cannot wait for book two.
Profile Image for Barbara Schoonover.
54 reviews3 followers
October 20, 2025
Beta read/Arc Read

I am so glad that I discovered this author, from the TT algorithm knowing exactly what I like I joined a wonderful group of ladies to beta read Marie's newest book series. And might I just say it was one heck of a roller coaster. Sumarian mythology rolled into current day with a look at the way love can sneak up on a person. Prophecies are always changing and not everything is what you might think. Taking the time to explore cultures and dynamics that are in effect even in today's world Marie is wonderfully adept at pulling you into the world of her books. But be prepared our wonderful author loves a good Cliff hanger and this one may leave you screaming at the book or staring at a wall. There are twists and turns you won't see coming and an underlying journey to self discovery and self confidence that will bring a tear to your eye. I can't wait to see what Marie has planned even if she rips my heart out in the process.
Profile Image for Read With Grace White.
131 reviews7 followers
November 2, 2025
First of all thank you to Marie, the author of this book for gifting me an arc copy and I am reviewing this book voluntarily. I have never read anything to do with Sumerian Mythology but this captivating read reimagines mythology with a fresh modern twist and stunning storytelling. There is an arranged marriage between Prince Case and Isha, whose chemistry is definitely noticeable from the start though they're both unaware of the secrets that will change everything. Case's sheltered upbringing has left him in the dark about the true nature of the Gods and Goddesses, while Isha lives in a world where they're very much alive. As they navigate their relationship, Isha helps Case unlock his hidden potential, and he teaches her to confront her emotions. This beautifully woven tale is a journey of found family, love, magic, and unexpected surprises. I look forward to reading what’s next for those characters.
Profile Image for Jax.
254 reviews9 followers
November 9, 2025
Peacebringer follows Case, prince to the order of Hunters that have been hunting down demons for generations. When he chooses a bride amongst demons to forge peace, he gets more than he bargained for in the best way possible. Isha is a fiery member of the First Family who has denied love after being burned so long ago. She foresees Case’s role in the future and is honored to be by his side. But will duty turn into more? And can they truly face everything coming?

Oh. My. Gosh. I loved Marie’s other works and I couldn’t resist signing up to read this novel. What a tale. I love the way her books are steeped in mythological relations but have their own entire merit from the complexity of the plot and characters. I couldn’t put this down and read well into the night so many times. And the cliffhanger?!? I highlighted over 200 things in this book and I couldn’t recommend it enough. Go read this!!
Profile Image for Riley McDaniel.
5 reviews
October 25, 2025
*Slight spoilers, nothing major*

It was fascinating to read a book that explores Sumerian Mythology, which I had not heard of before this. Very easy to follow along and learn as you go. I had exams and quizzes to study for, literally had to pry myself away from the book. The last 10% of the book had me on the edge of my seat, and what a cliffhanger. Definitely can’t wait for the next book!

I love how it’s sort of reversed from most books, she is thousands of years older than him (he’s 25), tiny but mighty FMC, virgin MMC, she teaches him how to use his magic, she’s a goddess/he’s a crown prince, she’s trying to resist their connection while he embraces it, possessive FMC = “touch him and die/he’s MINE” 😍

Tropes/themes: arranged marriage, prophecy

Songs that remind me of this book:
~DiE by Ella Boh & Ellise
~Golden Age by Janani K. Jha
~Yours by Bookish Songs Collective
Profile Image for TeeDub & SheDub .
14 reviews3 followers
November 2, 2025
Peacebringer is a story that takes Sumerian mythology, reimagines it, and puts it into a modern world.

It begins with an arranged marriage between the prince of hunters, Case, and Isha, who he thinks is a demon. The hope is that their union will help bring peace between the hunters and the demons.

Isha is a badass and Case is totally adorable, but he has no idea how powerful he really is or the truth about…well, a few things. Isha is going to help him figure it out though, all while her and case navigate traditions, family issues, what their marriage and future roles are going to look like while, and some quickly evolving feelings between the two of them.

I don’t want to say too much more, but I really enjoyed this book. I love the characters, especially Isha, Theo, and Utu, and I am excited for the future books in the series.
Profile Image for Book_it_to_me_baby.
123 reviews6 followers
November 1, 2025
Such a great read, mythology with a modern twist and beautiful storytelling.

An "arranged" marriage between Prince Case and Isha. There is something between them right from the start, but what they don't know. Case has been sheltered and lied to his whole life about the Gods and Goddesses still being alive. Isha lives in a world where she knows them to be alive and well. Isha helps Case learn how to harness his power and he helps her realize it's ok to feel again.

Follow this amazing story of found family, love, with magic and twists and turns.
Profile Image for Tammy.
316 reviews
November 12, 2025
I really enjoyed this! Not your typical MMC.

I giggled a few times because of how the author writes but I liked it! Looking forward to book two and plus I need to read more from the author since this was my first book by Marie

- arranged marriage
- sheltered MMC
- bad ass FMC
- virgin MMC
- age gap
- god / goddess
- magic system
Profile Image for Kelsey.
227 reviews
October 31, 2025
Unlike most books I've read, I had to take my time with this one. For 410 pages, there was A LOT of information provided. I feel like if I were to read this book a second time, I would still catch details that may have alluded to the ending of this book and how it sets up for book two.

Things that stuck out to me were the fact that Case was a mortal man yet still had magic. Though he wasn't able to control this magic or use it until Isha came into his life. I feel that Book One was more about the conflicts that were going on between species and how two kingdoms were attempting to bring peace. I also felt that while Case's and Isha's relationship was a plot point, the secondary characters and their actions were what made the book even more interesting.

There were paranormal and mythical beings in this book - witches, demons, shifters, gods, and goddesses. I did feel a bit confused with all the different types of beings. Again, I blame this on all the world-building and introductions of the secondary characters. Despite this, everything was relatively easy to follow.

Some key quotes that I thought were extremely interesting were:

"Arranged marriages are standard amongst nobles and royalty. This will just be the first arranged marriage between hunter and their sworn enemy, a demon."

"Only weak men beat people smaller than them."

"Demons were being targeted in restaurants and taverns, in the markets, and even just walking down the sidewalk in broad daylight."

"A prophecy isn't set in stone. Free will changes things all the time, you know that. Not to mention we weren't exactly sure the source was reliable."

I feel that even though these quotes do tie into the plot and why the book flows the way it does, some of them can allude to why there is conflict. I feel that in the next book Case and his powers will become even more powerful along with his and Isha's relationship. I'm also curious to see what happens with Theo and David. Also curious about Nin, because I feel she will be another key part in book 2 when it comes to peace.

Overall, despite all of the information provided in this book, this book is worth 4 stars. there is some spice, but I would rate it 2/5.

I would recommend this book to those who love world-building and paranormal storylines. I would also recommend this book who want a more thought-provoking book to take their time with. This book does take place in modern times, so those who like contemporary paranormal fiction may also like this book.

Disclaimer: I received an eARC of Peacebringer directly through the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
26 reviews
November 2, 2025
Marie Maness artfully blends old and new through characters rooted in Sumerian lore and modern life. The mythology isn’t just dropped into the present — it’s used to highlight the contrasts between the leads themselves, their worlds brushing against each other in smart, subtle ways that make their dynamic feel both fresh and inevitable.

The small details shine here (like our FMC’s confusion over what a “V-card” is — chef’s kiss), reminding you of the culture clash without ever overdoing it. The dual POVs are distinct and natural, giving each character a real voice and personality instead of just swapping pronouns.

And listen… I’m picky about characters. Fantasy or not, they’re still people, and I want them to feel like it. Maness nails that balance — grounded, believable, and layered enough to make you care.

Oh, and bonus points: she actually gives us reasons these two like each other. 🤯 No vague “inexplicable connection,” just chemistry that makes sense.

Peacebringer is thoughtful, well-paced, and surprisingly human for a story that bridges gods and mortals — a strong start to a world I’ll happily spend more time in.
Profile Image for Ambre.
333 reviews10 followers
November 16, 2025
WHEW, the Peacebringer ARC most certainly did NOT bring me peace. Instead, it had me on a roller coaster of emotions and I'm definitely in my feels after that fucking cliffhanger of an ending!!

*THIS REVIEW DEFINITELY CONTAINS SPOILERS*

All hail our gorgeous goddess wifey, Isha! This goddess sends me into a tailspin all the time. I love her duality and her vulnerability, even after centuries of life. And d'awwww, Case is baby and must be protecc always! Also, pretty sure he's got a praise kink. 😏 The spicy times are definitely spicing... 🌶️🔥 OH NO HE DIDN'T, THAT FUCKER!!

*BEWARE ALL YE WHO READ PAST HERE*

I need to know when the next books will be out! I must know what becomes of Nin (of course they'll rescue her), what happens to David, Amara, Theo and the twins, and the rest of the First Family (of course they'll all get HEAs), if and how Isha will ever be able to forgive Case (or course she will), and how they'll destroy those fuckers Dutzi and Kegel (yes, I intentionally misspelled their names because we want them GONE). I am not a patient person, lol, so it's gonna kill me to have to wait.
39 reviews1 follower
October 30, 2025
4.5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Amazing beginning of this series! I am so happy I was accepted into the ARC team for Peacebringer because the story is absolutely stunning.

The way that the author was able to incorporate Sumerian Mythology into an urban setting was fantastic and I love loveeeeeee the protagonists of this story.

We follow Isha, who is a powerful Goddess nonetheless, and she agrees to an arranged marriage with the heir of a wolf shifter clan.

The tropes are then reversed by having a male protagonist, who is shy and doesn't have the most experience with women, but Case wants to be a good partner and a better king for his clan than his father currently is.

I adored this story and I'm hopeful, and I cannot wait to see what happens on book two. The only reason I'm giving it 4.5 stars is because there were a couple of things that I predicted were going to happen, especially towards the ending, but the story and the characters are captivating
251 reviews10 followers
October 15, 2025
Solid 4.25 ⭐️ Read 2.5🌶️ Level

Where to begin, I devoured this book! The plot of this book was amazing. The world building was on point. Amazing characters that you can relate to and fall in love with. No to mention the twists that comes out of nowhere.

Then, the emotions that this book evokes …has no words. You don’t know if want to protect, yell, slick your hair back, or fall in love.

Oh that he darn cliffhanger… left me with messaging the author “WTH with that ending”. Apparently, that is a common response. 🤣

Overall, a phenomenal book that gives you a wonderful experience. I did not want to leave this amazing world behind. Looking forward to book two. 😉❤️
Profile Image for loonyasabat12.
139 reviews6 followers
October 23, 2025
This was an arc I received and wow! This was so unique with a plot and characters based off of Sumerian mythology. It was very engaging and I enjoyed everything about it! Isha is what I love in an fmc smart, fun, a little snarky, and strong willed. I really enjoyed Case as the mmc as well and the way he is described, just yes! Loved it! 😍 🤌
Profile Image for Jamie Rowlinson.
20 reviews
October 25, 2025
Every book by Marie has pulled me deep into her worlds! There is never a dull moment.
If you are a reader that loves multiple point of views than this is a great book. The banter is hilarious and the characters are well written!
I am so excited for book 2!!
2 reviews
November 12, 2025

Peacebringer had me guessing and on my toes the whole book! Every time I thought I had something figured out, something else came in I didn’t even see coming. The feelings, the love, the fights… I’m obsessed! Marie does such a great job of depicting fighting, training, and special abilities, I feel like I’m there in the moment to watch it all play-by-play. As always, each of these characters have a special place in my heart. Case and Isha are literally to die for, and the side characters… 👀 You never know what’s happening with them! The whole history of Sumerian gods is weaved in with the storyline tremendously.

If you’re open to a new mythology (although it’s the very underrated first mythology 🫠) I highly recommend this book! It was very interesting to see where some of the popular mythology gods and goddesses had origins. Marie made it very easy to follow, and the glossary? That made it so easy to navigate! I love Marie’s work and will be waiting in anticipation of her next!!!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
100 reviews2 followers
April 13, 2026
This book has excellent world building using the historical Sumerian pantheon of gods. The story tells of the relationship that forms between Case Sheehan, prince of the Hunters, and Innana or Ishtar, nicknamed Isha, the Goddess of Love, War and Fertility after their arranged marriage. The book spends most of it's time on Case and Isha's relationship it also forwards some of the plot of Case being the prophecized Preacebinger to help bring about the end of a war between the Gods and the Hunters. The underlying plot and mysteries of the book are secondary and come to a head at the end of the book, which ends in a cliffhanger. While the world building and details in this book are excellent, characterizations of both the MMC and the FMC come across as rather immature and very teenager-ish, especially Isha. She is supposed to be a goddess who came into being long before the birth of this solar system, yet her behavior and reactions are very child like. She's constantly described as giggling, which becomes distracting after awhile.
Profile Image for Randi F.
45 reviews3 followers
November 4, 2025
This is a re-imagining of Sumerian mythology. I honestly know nothing about it, but I love the story. This actually makes me want to do some research into it! I love the reverse tropes in this! She has black cat energy, he's got golden retriever energy. She's the first to show protective touch him and die energy. She trains him to use his element. He's a sheltered and abused prince, she's the Goddess of Love and War. Case really starts to come into his own by the end. He starts off being shy and unsure of himself, but gains confidence a little at a time. This story is fast paced and does have quite a bit of information, but it is the first book. So that's something I genuinely expect. I can't wait to see what the rest of this series has in store for us, especially after that Cliffhanger. That was a total WTF moment. Oh! And there is a decent amount of open door spice. Which is a plus for me.
2 reviews
November 14, 2025
HOLY...... If you haven't got a clue what to read next... here it is!

✨️ The Peacebringer from Marie Maness✨️

This is a story who takes you through the sumerian mythology with an epic twist.

You'll follow the main characters, Case and Isha, their adventure with magic and royal hierarchy.
Their story is a love story I won't ever forget, and you'll definitely want to read this if you like great banter and riveting smut!
If you like mythology and magic, a sense of family and understanding.. this book is definitely for you!

This series will continue from the mindblowing cliffhanger onto another book in 2026! So be sure to read this ASAP and make sure this series is on your TBR!

✨️ Tropes ✨️

🌸 Arranged marriage
🌸 Found Family
🌸 Demons
🌸 God and Godesses
🌸 Magic
🌸 Shifters
🌸 LGBTQ+

And last but not least..

Smut 🥵🥰

🌶🌶🌶🌶/ 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
Profile Image for Tiffani Farmer.
7 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2025
-arranged marriage
-virgin mmc
-demons
-magic
-golden retriever/black cat
-spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
-reimagined mythology

Marie always captures all the details in what makes her characters themselves. They unfold so beautifully in front of you that you will truly feel like you know them. You will love them, form bonds, argue with some and even LOATHE some. *cough cough* Bitchlan! iykyk 😆
And, if you are a spice lover you're in for a treat as Marie is the QUEEN of spice! She will have you feral and your significant others or battery operated help exhausted!
10000000/10 will recommend every book she writes because of all the time and love she pours into them. I can't believe that I have such the honor of being a part of her street team and a beta reader.
Profile Image for Kristen N.
Author 2 books8 followers
September 7, 2025
Love Love Love it. Gods, Goddesses, Demigod, mortal, all of it in one book. The realism to the myths of the Sumerian gods and how Marie managed to incorporate it into a realistic world setting was absolutely fantastic.

Case, prince of the hunters, and the Peacebringer to the wars. Isha... well, you'll find out just who she is. They are to be married in an arranged marriage, a marriage where they thought feelings of love wouldn't exist. But my God's, when the spice hits, it hits just right.

Marie builds an amazing story with characters you learn to love and characters you learn to hate. Each one has a special power different from the others. It's an absolutely amazing story with a cliffhanger that makes me wanna jump.
Profile Image for Rope Bound Reader.
22 reviews1 follower
October 14, 2025
Ahhh! Please allow me to jump off the cliffhanger ending again and again. So freaking worth it and I already cannot wait for the next book!

It was refreshing to have the FMC be the ageless immortal in the age gap and the exploration of a new (to me) magic system is always a delight. The world building is beautifully done with an interwoven tapestry of mythology and modern day.

Case is a golden retriever trying to be a black cat and growing into a bit of a Doberman MMC - iykyk. The banter, chemistry, and spice between he and Isha is *chefs kiss*. Isha is the black cat FMC that doesn't trust easily and honestly should she?

Verdict is out on that one but I am 1000% subscribing to the journey of figuring that out.
2 reviews
November 8, 2025
I read this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Here is a hidden gem of a book. I absolutely loved it. It's very much a fantasy Romance and just a great love story. If you thought Milo and Kitara were the perfect couple, you'll love Case and Isha. And all of their story is surrounded by Persian mythology which has been my favorite mythology to learn more about. Case needs to be high on the book boyfriend list. Sweet and shy, he's not your typical shadow daddy book boyfriend, but rather the one we all really want. Isha is a badass goddess that balances power with compassion and you can't help but love her. And the surprise villain makes it all so much better. My only complaint is that it ended and I want to know what comes next.
Profile Image for BookDragon_ KSC.
10 reviews
November 8, 2025
I read this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Here is a hidden gem of a book. I absolutely loved it. It's very much a fantasy Romance and just a great love story. If you thought Milo and Kitara were the perfect couple, you'll love Case and Isha. And all of their story is surrounded by Persian mythology which has been my favorite mythology to learn more about. Case needs to be high on the book boyfriend list. Sweet and shy, he's not your typical shadow daddy book boyfriend, but rather the one we all really want. Isha is a badass goddess that balances power with compassion and you can't help but love her. And the surprise villain makes it all so much better. My only complaint is that it ended and I want to know what comes next.
36 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2025
I absolutely loved that this book odds about some lesser known mythology. I knew nothing about it going into it, but it was very easy to follow the story.

The FMC is a total badass and I love her. I adore the reverse trope of the virgin, innocent and naive MMC. Case is just so likeable.

The story is compelling and you never know exactly who to trust. I, in general, hate reading cliffhangers when a series isn’t finished, and I can’t just go on to the next book, but I knew this going into it and that is entirely a me problem.

So that said, I am desperately awaiting the next book so I can get some answers.
Profile Image for FN.
396 reviews7 followers
November 8, 2025
Leave it to Marie to craft another phenomenal story where deities meet the modern magical world! This time, we follow a young, innocent MMC and a thousand-year-old, reserved goddess who avoided political affairs. But fate intertwines their paths through an arranged marriage and a prophecy. The twists are definitely twisting! Surrounded by loyal friends and loved ones, the story highlights the MMC’s growth and self-discovery beautifully. I love the side characters who offered warmth, humor, and support throughout. And that ending?!?! I’m already eager for the next book. I received this as an ARC and very grateful for it.
Profile Image for Mikki K.
4 reviews
November 10, 2025
Grateful to have had the opportunity to ARC read this interesting book as it gave me a look into a different world of mythology. This read was a little difficult to catch the pace on, it started a little slow for me to get into and then it would speed up here and there. I did enjoy the building of Case’s character and the elements of mystery. The ending leaves you ready for more and I’m glad to know there is more to come! The romance had a good mixture of cheese, yearning, and spice. There’s also a wonderful range of representation in this piece that I believe is much needed and many will love!
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