Vengeance of the Gods

Cursed Gods #2

by Dany Crooks

She’ll sacrifice herself for love.

There’s nowhere he won’t go to save her.

Cursed to forget and destined to die, Vega Caelum wakes on Earth with memories of a life she shouldn’t remember. The lines between reality and fantasy blur, making Vega question everything, including her sanity. Trapped in a world she doesn’t feel she belongs in, Vega searches for an end to a curse that might not even be real… until the man she used to love shows up, reminding Vega exactly who she is and what she came back to do.

Commander Bridger Dimico can no longer hide behind his shields, forced to face his betrayals when he sleeps. Willing to do anything to rid himself of the dreams, Bridger chases after his past to prove there’s still a piece of the man he used to be buried deep down. With a war of hearts at play, Bridger risks everything he’s worked for to save Vega from a deadly fate.

In the midst of a growing rebellion, Marlena Caelum has no other choice but to remind the people of Tolevarre who holds all the power. Lives are lost and deals are made, bridging the gap between life and death. Vega may finally be one step ahead, but it has Marlena wondering what her sister may have traded to get her vengeance.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

512 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2025

About the author

Dany is an over-caffeinated adult romantasy author currently living in southwest Michigan with her husband and four fur babies. Revenge of the Forgotten is her first book. Whenever she's not stuck in a fictional world, she enjoys being outdoors, diving into books that make her cry, and belting songs anywhere she goes like it's her own concert. She's been writing for fun since the late 2000s and recently started writing professionally to show herself and others like her that they can do hard things!

Find her at:

Instagram: @danycrooksauthor

TikTok: @authordanycrooks | @author.danycrooks

Reviews

[Sav | SavtheBookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will be sending Dany Crooks my therapy bills for the needing of this book LOLL yall…. Bridger is going to Earth to find Vega and bring her back to break the curse that Marlena put on them. Along the way we find out that things might not be as they seem and it might cost everything to break it.
The yearning and romance is sooo yummy in this book holy cow. I cannot wait for the third. I need answers but until then I will be sitting in despair

[Cayla Pitts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been obsessed with this series since book one dropped, and nothing has changed. I genuinely didn’t think Dany could make me fall for Bridger—I mean be serious… the man not only betrayed her by joining her evil sister, he literally killed her. Multiple times.

But book two gives us so much more of Bridger’s backstory and suddenly everything just clicks. No spoilers, but trust me when I say: Bridger’s redemption arc? Delivered.

I also loved watching the shift in dynamics between Vega and her friends—so much tension, so much growth. And the moment Vega decides to become her own savior, her own God? Cue the “that’s my shit right there” audio 🤏🏻 She is an absolute badass, full stop.

If you’re a romantasy girly and you haven’t started this series yet… babe, what are you even doing?! I’m obsessed and already feral for book three 👏🏻🔥

[christineann · Rating 5 out of 5]

So incredibly honored to have been given an ARC.
This was just as amazing as I expected it to be.

Dany turned everything up a notch. The stakes were higher, there were NEW stakes, the spice was 🥵, my heart hurt, the ending was 🤯

Will return in a couple days for a more detailed review. Let me piece my brain back together first.

[Taylen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars with a side of how could you do this to us?! This was SO good and the ending is gut wrenching with a cliffhanger that makes you ask when is the next book coming out before this one is even released. Thank you Dany for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC prior to the release date! I love the bonded group and their dynamic. The friendship they share is so lovely. Of course, Vega and Bridgers banter, fights, and love they share between them two is perfect. The magic and surprises continue into this book and gets much more involved. The Gods are intricate, intriguing, dark, and unknown. I can’t wait to learn more and see how all their stories unfold!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in return for an honest review of this book.

I have in the space of about 3 weeks read all 3 of the books in this series, and, wow, this one is immaculate.

I am a huge lover of Roman mythology and the ties in this book to that world are more present than in the first. I love the depictions of each of the gods who gain their own personalities in this instalment of the series. The story twists and turns and Dany Crooks manages to keep the reader securely in the dark until the very last moment, making a truly thrilling read.

This book is the perfect blend of ancient mythology, romance, war and fantasy. The stakes are high, the friendships are long-lasting, the romance is lovers to enemies to lovers with “I’d die for you” energy throughout.

And THAT ENDING!!! Dany Crooks I’m invested now and I can’t believe you did us dirty like that. I’m trying my hardest to avoid spoilers in this review but damn I need someone to talk to about this because I’m not ok!!

5/5 definitely recommend this series. I cannot wait for the next part!!

[Mariah Sativa · Rating 5 out of 5]

3🌶️ • 5⭐️ • 2000000 💧

“I sit at your feet, ready to devote my life to you, to remind you of the eternal tie my life has to yours. I summon your heart, your mind, and our souls.”

Good freaking Gods of Tolavarre. I think I need therapy. I’ve been lucky enough to have been selected for each book in this series ARC team this far. I have laughed, screamed, sobbed, and felt so many of those same emotions reading this book as well. Vengeance of The Gods is different. Emotions heightened, the plot falling in the sense of a perfect heart break, to a damn cliff hanger! I’m going to cry until the next book.

[Zephyr · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHAT

THAT ENDING.
DANY WHAT DID YOU JUST DO TO ME?!

Infinity stars.

I will write a better review when I find my words but oh my gods what the f*ck.

[Emily Ashman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very excited to receive an ARC of this and I wanted to love it.

The good:
-the pace of the story is good
-it has twists and turns
-the story is interesting

Why couldn’t I love it? I realized since finishing the first book that I don’t actually like the MMC. I’m all for a gray character but I didn’t see anything redeeming about him. While we learn more about him and his motivations in book two, it wasn’t enough to take the ick away. If you finished book 1 and liked Bridger, I’m sure you’ll like this but I won’t be continuing.

[WickedWolfLore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Dany Crooks for the ARC!

That ending, wow! It was a serious pivot from where I thought the story was headed, but I absolutely love a good plot twist. Reading book 1.5 first definitely added so much more depth to Marlena's actions, and I loved finally getting deeper insight into Bridger’s past. He truly felt like the focal point of book 2.

While this book dives more into the gods, it still leaves just enough unanswered to keep you hungry for more. This book, did clear up several lingering questions from book one, making book three feel like the perfect bridge ahead. And that found family moment gave so much hope in the middle of all the chaos… even if that, too, came with its own twist.

Can't wait for book 3. A definite recommended read for those that love fantasy, epic battles, romance (with some spice) and plot twists!

[Georgia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you so much to Dany for the ARC. It was my first ARC and it really delivered!

It took me a while to get into the first book but I devoured the second one and loved this one too.
For anyone considering reading this who hasn’t read Heart of the Villain… run now, you have to read it!

I really enjoyed the character development. Vega taking her destiny into her own hands was everything I needed, I always knew I’d fall in love with Bridger, and this book definitely delivered on his redemption arc. And I’m still somehow praying for the pieces of Marlena, and enjoyed having her perspective included after the last book.

There were definitely some bits I struggled to wrap my head around but overall I really enjoyed the read… until the end… how could you leave us like that on such a cliffhanger!!

Overall an easy 4+ star read and I can’t wait for the final book release!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y’all if you thought the cliffhanger for book one was bad, you’re not readdyyyyyy for book two. Dany, you will be receiving my therapy bill.

Thank you Dany for the ARC!!!!! I loved loved loved book one & the novella, and lemme tell you, book two absolutelyyyyy lives up to the hype! We get so much more info about Bridger, as well as some answered questions about the gods. And the found family continues to be top tier. I have so many questions (&concerns) about what’s coming next and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book!

[Marisa Tualla · Rating 3 out of 5]

*ARC review* The spice level has gone up 🌶️🌶️
Book 2 of the fantasy romance. Starting with Vega back on earth, this time it’s Bridger that comes for her. I was so mad at Bridger for turning his back on Vega l, he needed to do a lot this book to earn Vegas love and trust.
I wasn’t excited to keep reading the story after book 1, but I felt the pacing was a bit slow.

[Cindy Watson · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so good to jump back into this series.
This book just like the first pulls you right into a beautiful world Dany created.
You can't help but see yourself as at least one of the 4 bonded friends.

Thought you loved Bridger in the first book, well get ready to fall in love with him even more.

So much more character development that makes you love the characters even more.

[Lexi Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

OBSESSED.

That ending….just no. whyyyyyyy. nooo. I now need more🥲

I just love the found family with the bonded so so much. After reading book 1.5, I have such a soft spot for Marlena. I want more for her so bad.

Chase…die.

[Casey B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Verrrrrry Goooooood

[Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was accepted as an ARC reader for this book, I came across the application and read the blurb and immediately knew I wanted to apply. When I was accepted I started reading the series immediately, and fell in love with it.

This book alone was incredible and I encourage anyone who loved Percy Jackson, or any sort of mythology as a kid, to read this series!

Thank you to Dany/Dany’s team for accepting my application, because I stumbled onto a new series and author I love, but DAMN do you know how to leave us on a cliffhanger😭

Can’t wait for any new books you may publish, but ESPECIALLY the next in this series!🫶🏼

[Bri · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Tell me something real”

I want to set the scene.. me feral on the floor because Dany Crooks hates PEACE 😭

First, I want to thank Dany + her team for adding me to her selected team of ARC readers.

Second, if I don’t get a third book soon I will ✨riot✨.

This book, GODS this book, had me enraptured from the very first page of the very first book. I was addicted instantly to the point I ready Revenge of the Forgotten, and then immediately devouring Heart of the Villain.

Now that I’ve finished Vengeance of the Gods, I can honestly say my heart was shattered, put back together, shattered again. This series is everything I’ve always loved in a book. It is a teasing slow burn that had my heart pounding with every page. This book made me laugh, cry, scream, gasp, reread paragraphs, question my life choices, and my husband probably thought I was slowly going mad.

He would be correct, because I was. If you want a slow burn that captures your attention from the first page, an MMC that ticks all of your boxes, a *perfect* “fuck it” moment, banter that heats your skin, AND makes you giggle, then this is exactly what you need.

The world of Tolevarre has made the real world a little more gray for me. Every chapter is alive with magic, myth, and danger. It’s the kind of world where the gods are watching, meddling, judging… and you FEEL ITTTT.

Dany wrote this with so much tension, heart, and pain I wanted to inhale it and cry that it was over (I did both btw)

[Jillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! The plot line is unique. The characters have depth. The FMC isn't an intolerable twit and the MMC is dark, powerful, broody and FULL of yearning. Love their relationship arc. I did, however, have a hard time following some of the scenes and sequences. And I really would have liked a little bit more background info on the gods. Particularly Pluto. Maybe that will come in the next book. Regardless, it was overall a fun read that kept me wanting to come back for more! Thanks so much for letting me be an ARC reader, it was an honor! Oh, also, the prayer scene was chefs kiss, loved it!!

[Chloe Fordham · Rating 5 out of 5]

very sad as I thought this may be a duology and now have to wait for the next one with no release date !!! This was insanely good and deserves a lot more recognition . Such a unique story which is rare .


To future Chloe:
Vega : fmc , parents dead , sister is evil machine who summoned the gods to takeover their world , evil sister cursed her to keep reviving after death on earth with no memories of her life at home, had very bad lives as the curse made her lives bad without her knowing , book 1 she makes her way back home and gets her memories back then tries to break the curse realising earth is what its tied to, dies then comes back realises the portal is her connection, breaks the curse and kills romus the god who her curse was connected to (i think), and comes back to her life to start a revolution against her sister, so far has stole three of her sisters gods but now is the goddess of death herself as she nearly died breaking the curse and promised her soul along with her sisters and the gods they’d stole in exchange for mcs safety and is now haunted by the gods voices taking over her mind like they did with crazy sister
Bridger : mmc , main romance, YEARN YEARN wow this man we loved him a lot from the get go, they fell in love at first sight (a trope i love which isn’t very popular in books) , but sadly after vega died one too many times, he became evil sisters army commander to stop more innocent people dying, played part very well and him and vega don’t get back together until book 2 mid way, he went to earth to get her back when she was on her curse solving hunt and they reconnected, he told vega of his torture and joined the rebellion for her with his army as they follow him , he is also a god . Oh yes forgot to say in the first books prologue the four main characters bonded their souls to call for a god to come to their aid which they assumed was romolus but turns out it was not, the curse kept the bonded powers at bay but when vega undid it they all became gods and he is now the god wrath , spice scenes are insane btw he calls her baby what more can we want, however at end of book he decided to sacrifice himself to save vega from her promised death and goes to the underworld to challenge Pluto I believe to his throne of the underworld, vega is not happy big cliffhanger
Marlene : villain , however it hurts to say that as I read the 1.5 and she was a product of her environment, she was abused and tortured and forced to be a leader in horrible ways by her parents who treated vega like a princess , they were great sisters once but Marlene chose revenge and power against her friends and now is a batshit crazy lady who is killing everyone, summoned the 12 gods to have their powers and has made life hell for everyone since. However her love for arlet was emotional to read and it’s sad but that didn’t tip her over the edge, she’d already gone
Arlet : love u queen, vegas bestie, has a bonded dragon, once loved Marlene, can create illusions on huge scale that are cool
Khort : a bit annoying best friend of vega but loved her since they were kids and is a dragon shifter

General plot now is revolution vs Marlene . As gods they can’t die but vega is trying to take the gods from Marlene and succeeding so she can kill her and be done with it all. But her self sacrificing made lover of her life sacrifice himself to the underworld so guess we shall see how that goes

[Meghan Schmelz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am beyond grateful for the chance to ARC read this book, so thank you Dany Crooks!

First off, this book was everything I needed and more to follow book one. It satisfied a need, while going beyond into the moon and stars.

Vega is ballsy, as we all know from the end of the first book. She grows immensely in this sequel, and she is a force to be reckoned with.

Arlet and Khort are the best of friends, looking out for Vega. They grow immensely their own way, and become stronger as well.

But Bridger? Words can’t even describe.

Bridger is everything I hoped he would be, and everything I didn’t know I wanted. His character development is wild. Bridger has you on your toes, never knowing his next move.

He and Vega are the perfect match, physically, mentally, emotionally. They match in skill, in desire, in what they hold close to their hearts.

“Tell me something real”
“You can have whatever’s left of me”
“I’ll always find you… in this life and all those that follow”
“You’re the air that I breathe - my life”

The relationship between the two not only breaks your heart, but will put it back together better than it ever was before.

Marlena is still the villain, but I love that this book also gives insights to her perspective. Glimpses of what she feels, and her thoughts, really give that full circle storytelling that makes the reader omniscient. I loved being a part of all sides, and having that viewpoint of knowing the reasoning and understanding in every characters stance.

But let’s talk about that ending… the ending TORE ME APART. I am a complete wreck right now, and don’t know how we are supposed to wait for the next release. Dany Crooks, what did you do to us?

Dany left us on such a cliffhanger with everything hanging in the balance. Nothing could have been predicted or could have prepared me to feel this way. Until the next release, I will be trapped in time still in a haze from this ending.

Overall, even with the first book being a 5 star rating, this sequel seemed to surpass it a hundred times over. I wish I could give more than 5 stars because this truly deserved it! This second book has also amped up the spice by more than double, and the twists this story holds are unlike anything you could expect.

Vengeance of the Gods is a MUST READ, so if you haven’t already read the first (Revenge of the Forgotten) you better get on it because this sequel is everything you need in life and you’re going to want to read it!

[Tori Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to be chosen for the ARC, my first one by the way! I’m not one to leave worded reviews. But I can gladly say that I’m so happy for this book to be my first review.

Man these characters have been through it! Some more than others. Marlena is obviously my favorite and without putting any spoilers for this book I’m choosing to put reasons why she is my favorite from the book in her POV, which if you haven’t read it, RUN TO IT. Marlena qualifies as one of those villains who is misunderstood, especially in the first book. In her POV, in ‘Heart of the Villain,’ it’s so easy to become team Marlena because of everything she has went through. And while murder mighhhhttt be a bit over the top, in my eyes it’s justified. Plus I mean,, who doesn’t love a little (a lot of) drama. I totally see where she comes from, needing revenge for her hardships, especially when Vega had failed to see Marlena’s side of it. I’d do the same, probably.

These two sisters put the difference of revenge and vengeance under a microscope. With Marlena seeking revenge for herself because she was abused, neglected, left out and ignored. And The Bonded with their vengeance for Tolevarre. For the people of their realm that were wrongfully punished by the wrath of a woman scorned. The cliffhanger at the end of this book has me already ACHING to read the next book and this one isn’t even released yet.

Dany Crooks has rolled fantasy, romance, suspense, betrayal, friendship, and redemption up into one big beautiful bundle of an unforgettable series. I’m so excited to come back to Tolevarre when the series is continued. Thank you so much for the journey and the experience of existing inside the minds of gods. Screaming and crying at the end of this one, not gonna lie.

May I just say that if I ever end up in Tolevarre, may the gods grant me the resilience of Vega, the strength of Bridger, and the loyalty of Arlet. Make me a warrior like Khort. Give me the beauty and will of Marlena. And last but most importantly, the creativity of the true goddess of Tolevarre, Dany Crooks.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so so much to Dany Crooks for this ARC!!

Vengeance of the Gods is the 2nd book in The Cursed Gods Series and whew… it is everything I wanted to be and more. While the first book mostly focused on Vega, this one shifted to Vega, our main man Bridger as well as resident baddie Marlena.

This book pulls you in from the very beginning, diving straight into where the first book left off. Vega continues to fight for what’s right and we see the ramifications of that from Bridger’s perspective right off the bat. From the very beginning, we continue to see a conflicted and tortured man, divided by duty and a love that hasn’t faded or lessened with time. This book’s POVs really gave us an opportunity to see inside his mind and his motives for his past actions, making his storyline in this book all the more fascinating and compelling.

Vega continues to be such a badass, refusing to let anyone tell her what to do or how to feel. We learn more about her past lives, giving a glimpse into the trials and tribulations that made her into the person she is today. To say Vega’s got a lot on her plate in this book is… an understatement to say the least. Between rebuilding relationships and the Gods meddling throughout, our girl Vega is going through it for sure. However, she continues to be such an inspirational force of power and compassion.

Vega and Bridger’s relationship continues to be the top tier banter-filled dynamic we all crave. Their relationship is still extremely tumultuous, but there is clear compassion for their shared experiences and past traumas. I thought the banter in book one was top tier, but their interactions in this book had me laughing out loud. Their love is so strong it's tangible, making me feel all the feels.

If you have not started this series, Find your closest portal (preferably a mirror, IYKYK) and run to read this series and this otherworldly book! If you need me, I will be here, staring at the wall, waiting to see how this all plays out because that ending was INSANE and I can not wait for book 3!!

[Gabrielle Armstrong Velazquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually gave this 4.75 stars!!

✨“𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙏𝙤𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙜𝙤𝙙𝙨.” ✨
✨“𝘿𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙑𝙚𝙜𝙖 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙨 𝘽𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙜𝙚𝙧 𝙙𝙞𝙙.” ✨
✨“𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙣𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙑𝙚𝙜𝙖 𝘾𝙖𝙚𝙡𝙪𝙢.”✨

I needed a break from using my pillow as a punching bag because WHAT WAS THAT ENDING.

This is SJM and Yarros-level PAIN cuz WHATDOYOUMEAN ?!?!?!

Tysm for Dany and her team for choosing me as part of their ARC team.

This book is such a slow burn that it’s the SECOND book in the series and just now the MCs got together. The world building and storytelling is as amazing as the first book—some may argue it’s dragged out but I prefer that; taking my time steeping in a world with complex characters that keep me guessing, rather than be annoyed at the insta-love and insta-plot of a too-quick book.

As a lover of myth I simply can’t stop fangirling over this world! Tolevarre is just like Earth, except the Roman gods never left, and the people are descended ants from them which means everyone gets a special power related to the deity. For instance Venus, is invisibility, Diana is shape shifting. I, for one, love figuring out these powers while Dany *very* slowly reveals them. It’s murky af because not only our narrators are unreliable, but the gods are constantly meddling and watching and that makes things very confusing for everyone—even us! At some points I had to re-read paragraphs cuz the story does get complex!!

I must add… the spice? OUT OF THIS WORLD. 🌶️ 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓻 22. 🌶️ 𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓽𝓮𝓻 46. 🌶️🌶️I’m FERAL for how he PRAYED to her. I’m still buzzing!!! Her hand couldn’t wrap around the whole thing OKAY. 🌶️🌶️

I simply love the 𝓕𝓜𝓒 𝔀𝓱𝓸’𝓼 𝓶𝓸𝓻𝓪𝓵𝓵𝔂 𝓰𝓻𝓮𝔂 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓪 𝓶𝓸𝓷𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓷𝓼𝓲𝓭𝓮 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓭. See my reviews on Vespertine and One Dark Window. Simply love that as much as I love female rage.

I think this book is perfect. Perfect balance of lore, secrets, plot and smut but Dany TO WHAT GOD MUST I SELL MY SOUL TO AVOID THESE CLIFFHANGERS??!?!?!?

[Sian Atherton · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vengeance of the Gods is the second book in Dany Crooks' Cursed Gods Series. The ending in Revenge of the Forgotten promised so much in this second instalment, and I was really excited to pick this book up.

However, I felt like it was telling the same story to a certain degree. There were a few changes, but nothing paramount stood out. Starting in Rome made me think there would be something significant, but quite literally, it was to create distance for the journey and give time to Vega and Bridger to reconnect. It was just too simple for me to actually be invested in what was happening and find any substance in their rekindling feelings so the beginning seemed slow-paced.

There were some really sweet moments between the two, as they come to rely and develop an element of trust in one another. But nothing ultra really happens until they return to Tolevarre, where everything just seems to pick up momentum.

Unexpected twists, sacrifice, banter, and battle scenes just came barrelling into the narrative, and it suddenly became exciting. So much happened, and so much was left unsaid. It answered several questions from book one but left me with a dozen more.

I honestly have no clue if I really enjoyed this book or have left with whiplash with the change in pace. When it comes to the fantasy side of the world, the writing has depth and rich imagery it's not hard to imagine the world. I would just have liked the consistency throughout the novel.

Vengeance of the Gods is full of dark tension, discovery, and has a gut-wrenching cliffhanger ending.
__________________
Favourite Quotes:

“You’ve had enough time. Your destiny awaits.” A girl destined to die. Cursed to forget, but destined to die. Die. Death.

“I will never stop fighting for you. Not in this life or any that follow. My love for you is stronger than any darkness this realm can create. Me and you, forever.”
__________________
🌶🌶🌶/5

[Nisma B · Rating 5 out of 5]

[ARC review]

I am so lucky to have been selected to ARC read this absolute gem. I have read both of Dany Crooks’s previous works, and her writing truly feels like a gift that keeps on giving because each book becomes more intense, more emotional, and even more addictive than the last.

This book absolutely blew me away. Bridger’s redemption arc was everything. I understand him so much more now, and the depth and vulnerability Dany wove into his journey made every moment hit hard. His growth felt earned and powerful. And when he had that iconic “Eyes on me” moment, I actually froze. The confidence, the energy, the shift in his entire presence was unreal. But, when he hit us with the very heated “fuck it,” I swear I dropped my Kindle. Dany truly cranked up the spice in this book and those scenes proved it.

And Vega. My queen!! Vega is a complete badass. She is fierce and unshakeable, but she also carries so much heart. I loved her dynamic with her friends. Their loyalty, their chaos, their support, their humor, it all made the story feel vibrant and real. Vega’s strength and her emotional depth made her shine in every chapter. She brings fire, resilience, and raw power in a way that only she can.

The twists, the character development, the tension, the heartbreak, the heat, and the world building all came together perfectly. And that cliffy at the end absolutely wrecked me. I was so speechless I needed a whole day or two to even figure out how to write this review. My brain shut down in pure shock.

Thank you so much to Dany Crooks and her PA for the ARC 🫶🏼

[Beth (bethsbookshelfx) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating : ☆☆☆☆☆

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𝘐’𝘮 𝘢 𝘧𝘶𝘤𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘳, 𝘝𝘦𝘨𝘢. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳’𝘴 𝘭𝘦𝘧𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦.

—————

𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨 & 𝙄𝙣𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 :

- 𝙎𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚
- 𝙀𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨
- 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙭𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙩𝙮
- 𝙎𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝘽𝙪𝙧𝙣
- “𝙁𝙪𝙘𝙠 𝙄𝙩”
- 𝙈𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙞 𝙋𝙊𝙑
- 𝙍𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙈𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮 𝙄𝙣𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙙
- “𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝘼𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝘽𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙔𝙤𝙪”

✔️ Available On KU

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“Tell me something real” the words that filled my heart everytime I read it.

Oh Dany. She has a way of making me feel intense feelings and then making me cry with laughter at sarcastic clap backs. I can imagine how HARD it is to write a good Romantasy series and Dany’s are complete PERFECTION. I literally see ZERO faults in her writing. It feels so effortless and makes me feel so much

So far, this is my favourite Dany book! There was so much in this one and not one part felt rushed, or forced, or slow. It was perfectly paced with the perfect amount of emotions. I think I at least highlighted one sentence on each page.

I won’t go deep into the plot cause spoilers, but some stand out moments for me were :

Bridger at an airport is everything I never knew I needed in my life but it is absolutely everything to me. Vega and Bridger soft scenes will always be the death of me. Them two are my Roman Empire. Arlet and Khort being so fed up of Bridgers presence is HILARIOUS to me ahahaha

As much as I’d love to dislike Marlena I could never. If Marlena has no fans then I’m dead. If you hate her you’re wrong (jk, a little) but read Heart Of The Villain if you haven’t.

[Ashley M · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been very impatiently waiting for this book since I finished book one, and it was worth the wait!
I absolutely adore this series. Revenge of the Forgotten (book one) lured me in and had me wanting more, Heart of the Villain (book 1.5) had me loving Marlena (the villain, WHAT??), and this one had me in a chokehold at the end because WTH DANY!

You get a lot more from the old gods in this book, and they are LOUD. I loved how Dany drew on Roman mythology, and how each god represents a particular power or magic, and how she placed them in this story (I won't say how, because it could potentially be a spoiler).

In book one, we get mostly Vega; in book 1.5, it's all about Marlena and her villain origin story; and in this one, it's focused on the one and only BRIDGER. While he's done some dirty things in the past, this is his redemption story 100%. At the end of book one, Vega's fate is unclear (thanks for that cliffhanger, Dany), and at the start of this book, we dive right back in and find Bridger plotting and scheming to get her back. He knows he did wrong in the past, and he's determined to fix those wrongs. His and Vega's relationship is filled with the best banter, and I'm here for it. His character development in this book is so good, and UGH, the ending. I can't say, because *spoilers*.

Marlena seems to be losing it in this book; losing her power and her sanity as the rebellion/resistance grows. She's desperate and angry, and despite her being the villain, you kind of just feel bad for her. (Book 1.5 is a MUST READ to understand this)

Vengeance of the Gods was so much more than I expected, and I can't wait for more!

[Haali M · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Vega Caelum, I am yours from now until the end of time. Let me prove my loyalty tonight and every other night. Forever. I live for you.” This pretty well sums up Bridger in Vengeance, and I’m obsessed.

I’m. SPUTTERING. I mean COME ON! Ughhhhh Dany, you are the queen of edging. It’s official. lol *cue dramatics* here lies my soul, with a giant hole in it where this series has just ripped out everything useful. I desperately need to be stitched back together…I’m sobbing. How could you end it like that?!

I love every book Dany has written, and Vengeance of the Gods somehow was better than both books before it. I don’t know how she did it, but I am so impressed. The character development really amped up this book and seeing those pieces of each of them as they struggle to find their new normal in a sea of chaos had me tearing up multiple times.

Let me just say… The spice in this one had me FANNING myself. Spoiler alert it didn’t work!

I can’t fathom how it gets better than this, but I know it will. I seriously can’t wait for the next book in the series!

Thank you so, so, so much to Dany Crooks for the gifted review copy. I’m so grateful to be a part of your team and to shout from the rooftops about one of my favorite series! I hope I get to meet you one day and nerd out about Tollybear!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(it’s not enough stars)
🌶️🌶️.5

[Elaine Arentz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I genuinely don’t know how Dany Crooks keeps doing this to me, but Vengeance of the Gods wrecked me in the best way. The stakes are higher, the emotions are sharper, and my heart? In absolute shambles.

Bridger’s journey to Earth to bring Vega back is packed with yearning, regret, and revelations that make everything feel heavier and more dangerous. Nothing is as simple as it seems, and every choice feels like it could cost them everything. His redemption arc? Painful, earned, and impossible not to fall for—even when you remember all the reasons you shouldn’t.

Vega, though—she is that girl. Watching her step into her power and decide to become her own savior was such a satisfying, badass moment. The dynamics between her and her bonded group continue to evolve in ways that are messy, tense, and deeply emotional, and I loved every second of it.

The romance is intense, the spice is spicing, the Gods are dark and intriguing, and the ending… absolutely uncalled for. A brutal cliffhanger that left me staring at the wall wondering how I’m supposed to survive until book three.

If you love romantasy filled with gods, betrayal, redemption, and characters who make you feel too much, this series is a must. I am obsessed, emotionally compromised, and already counting down for what comes next.

[Tiara · Rating 4 out of 5]

SPOILER FREE ARC REVIEW

thank you to Dany Crooks for giving me the opportunity to read this as an arc!!!

Vengeance of the Gods by Dany Crooks was such a fun, high-stakes read and absolutely scratched that mythology-meets-fantasy itch.

This book goes hard on the gods, the consequences of power, and the fallout of choices—and I loved that nothing felt easy or low-risk. The stakes are clear from early on, and there’s this constant tension humming in the background that kept me turning pages. Every time I thought I knew where things were headed, the story found a way to complicate it (in a good way).

The worldbuilding is immersive without bogging the story down, and I really appreciated how the mythological elements felt woven into the plot instead of just existing for vibes. The characters are messy, driven, and dealing with forces way bigger than themselves, which always makes for compelling reading. I especially loved the emotional weight behind the conflicts—it wasn’t just about revenge, but what it costs.

This landed at four stars for me because it’s intense and packed, but overall, it’s a strong, engaging fantasy with epic energy and plenty to sink your teeth into.

If you love gods meddling in mortal lives, morally gray choices, and fantasy that doesn’t pull its punches, Vengeance of the Gods is definitely worth picking up. ⚡📚