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The First Encounter

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There’s a first time for everything…

Worry plagues Raphael Fiore, Horsemen Commander, as the Horsemen ride for Luxor. Raphael has reservations about the newest Horseman, Dante Giovanni, and his readiness for the field. While the High Council believes Dante is destined for greatness, Dante has a tendency to disregard things he shouldn’t. Adding to Raphael’s angst, Morrigan charged him with protecting a woman who would appear in the midst of the latest confrontation between the High Council and the Hasan.

Grace Gillingham just wants to go home. Two Hasan officers, Qasim and Fariq, promise to help her, but they need the Book of the Dead to send her back to modern day. She believes their claims of a war between their organization and an immortal High Council are some fantastical conspiracy until she finds herself face to face with the Four Horsemen. Hell bent on getting out of Antiquity, Grace refuses to let the four harbingers derail her plans to heist the book.

Stakes are high as the High Council and the Hasan battle over one of Egypt’s most famous relics. Whoever controls the book, controls the human realm.

156 pages, Paperback

Published September 30, 2025

6 people want to read

About the author

Caterina Novelliere

6 books36 followers
Caterina is a storyteller and adventurer. She is passionate about history, music, romance, old languages, legend, and travel. She regularly intertwines these subjects in her writing. While she is a fan of all history, her historical interests are primarily in the Ancient Mediterranean, Early Europe (Middle Ages through the Renaissance), Al-Andalus, Berber History, Islamic Civilization, and Cultural Heritage.

She loves cappuccino, Greek coffee, and a good glass of wine. Storytelling and transmitting tradition through food fascinates her. When on the road, one can find her exploring restaurants, bakeries, and food-related businesses in addition to local sites. Her Instagram showcases some of her favorite culinary discoveries.

When not traveling or working, Caterina finds time to sing classical music, act, write, paint, make soutache jewelry, and fence. She is always up for trying something new, so the list of hobbies is ever-expanding. A self-proclaimed social media junkie, she enjoys meeting new folks and networking.

If you would like to contact her or learn more about her and future works, you can find her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and at https://caterinanovelliere.com.

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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Profile Image for Jenni.
6,253 reviews77 followers
October 21, 2025
4.5 stars
The First Encounter is an engaging novella that serves as a prequel to the first book, Mark of The Night, in the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen series by Caterina Novelliere.

Having enjoyed Caterina’s House of Arsceneaux, I was eager to read this book and couldn’t wait to dive in. It caught me off guard in the best way possible. I became so immersed in the story that it ended before I was ready for it to.

The First Encounter masterfully intertwines paranormal elements and fantasy, creating an exciting adventure. There is so much to love about this book, including its secrets, action, war, immortals, High Councils, relics, time travel, prophecies, quests, conspiracies, and so much more. Caterina weaves a complex narrative effortlessly in this high-stakes adventure tale.

The human realm is on the brink of chaos unless Grace can outpace the Four Horsemen and stop them. If she fails, everything will be lost, and her life will be forfeit. The result is a captivating story you won't want to miss.

This novella is sure to delight, as it incorporates Egyptian mythology, history, lore, and religion, along with the aforementioned elements.

Dive in; you know you want to!
Profile Image for Stefanie Verhelst.
102 reviews7 followers
November 11, 2025
The first encounter, an enticing opening to the Servants of the Morrigan series, has multiple ingredients to make it a very interesting read!

The author brings mythology and history to life in an interesting character based story. The strong emotions, the hope and despair walk hand in hand in this page turning fantasy tale.

The strong historical and mythological background knowledge from the author are an added value to this book.
67 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2025
3.7

Raphael is the commander of the Four Horsemen does not have a lot of time left; he still has to secure a replacement for his role of death, all the while ensuring that one of their most powerful relics isn’t stolen. Grace, said the relic thief, is desperate to get home, and the relic is the key to getting there, even if it means outrunning the Four Horsemen.

Gosh, there was so much to process here, even in such a short book. Novelliere really sets the pace from the get-go and just does not let up. I believe this is a prequel novella to go along with Novelliere’s Servants of Morrigan series, and honestly, this book got me excited to start reading it. There was just so much painstaking detail in this book, and Novelliere’s writing was engaging and masterful. I think if you are looking for a good fantasy book to read, that mixes in historical elements in a really interesting and seamless way. As enjoyable as I did find this I think that the reader may benefit from reading the original series first and then picking up the novella, as there were details and motivations of character that felt like they didn’t have as much weight because I didn’t fully understand them. Still, once I’ve read the series, I’m sure I’ll return to this and will get a whole new insight into the characters. That being said, I did find the story enjoyable, and the characters were truly vibrant. Even with the fantastical elements, there was something ery grounded about the characters that made them easy to connect with.

This would be a great pick for fantasy readers; you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Anna Hirsch.
795 reviews12 followers
November 1, 2025
The First Encounter by Caterina Novelliere
4 Stars


The First Encounter is a thrilling blend of time travel, mythology, and destiny—a story that weaves together history, fantasy, and emotion. This novel explores fate on a grand scale, delving into the cosmic forces that bind humanity and the ancient power of the Four Horsemen. Grace’s life takes an unexpected turn after she is propelled across time. What begins as confusion soon becomes a journey of discovery, as past and present collide and the truth about the Horsemen—and their role in shaping the world—comes to light. The commander is running out of time. There is not much sand left in his hourglass and he must still train his replacement while hunting for the thief. The stakes are high on both sides. The author skillfully balances the tension of a high-stakes fantasy with the intimacy of personal transformation, creating a story that feels both epic and deeply human. She brings vivid historical and supernatural scenes to life with striking detail. The story is filled with mystery, and secrets unfold layer by layer. The First Encounter reinvents the concept of the Four Horsemen not merely as harbingers of doom, but as complex, multifaceted entities tied to humanity’s evolution. This book is a prequel to the series which seems interesting and original.

701 reviews7 followers
November 7, 2025
The commander of the Four Horsemen, Raphael, is running out of time. He needs to prepare Dante to take over for him as Death, but Dante is too caught up in his loss to pay attention. He is also running out of time to keep the Ancients' most powerful relics from being stolen. Not to mention there is the war between Hasan and the High Council to worry about. Raphael definitely has more than enough on his plate and not enough time left to accomplish it all. Grace is working for Hasan as the relic thief. She never envisioned this is what her life would boil down to when she looked toward her future. Grace will however do what must be done for the greater good and more importantly to get home. She had always thought the tales of war between Hasan and the High Council were just conspiracy until she was face to face with the Four Horsemen. Itching to get home she refuses to let them deter her from getting her hands on The Book of the Dead. The fate of the world rests in her hands. For whoever controls the book, controls the human realm. Will it be Hasan or will it be the High Council? I am glad I read this book as it seems to have set up the first book fairly well. I am looking forward to starting the first full length book related to this series. I have it primed and ready to go.
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
4,960 reviews59 followers
October 9, 2025
I enjoyed reading this shorter story which packs a lot of action and fantasy in a short amount of time. This is a newer author for me which I enjoyed their attention to details that make this story hard to put down and engaging. Their creative use of details makes the story pop from beginning to end. This is a well written story about control. Raphael is a great character who is Commander of the Four Horsemen but is running out of time to stop the theft of a powerful book. Grace is determined to get home but the problem is Raphael stands in her way of stealing the book. Stakes are running high to get control over this book. You don’t want to miss what happens in this book. I also enjoy Grace’s character and admire her determination not to let Raphael stop her from what she wants. I found all the characters to be engaging and connectable which added to their strength. I enjoyed watching the growth of the plot throughout which made the story easy and entertaining to read. This is a fast paced, engaging story and one that I look forward to seeing more from this series in the future. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Desiree.
252 reviews19 followers
November 4, 2025
Raphael is the commander of the Four Horseman, and his time is very quickly coming to an end. He has to get his replacement, Dante, up to speed on all things end times. Dante is proving to be hardheaded and too focused on his present loss. As the Horseman work to thwart the loss of an ancient relic that could ruin humanity, they suffer a great loss. Can the Horseman pull together to secure the relic? Or will they be fighting the end times much sooner than anticipated?

This is a novella to set up the series about the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horseman. While I have not read book 1, I do see how a reader would want to have all of this information to understand the motivations of each of the horseman going forward in a series. It is important to know why characters make the decisions that they do, and what drives those. There are a lot of names throughout this novella, and it moves very quickly. I tried to read it in a couple of sittings just so I didn't lose who was who as I read. I felt like I kept it all pretty straight because I recognized a lot of the names and the lore that goes with them. I feel like it teed up Book 1 quite well and will be looking for it!
Profile Image for Kerry  carr.
1,929 reviews24 followers
November 6, 2025
The First Encounter is the prequel to the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen series. This book was an amazing surprise to means it contained all elements I love, danger, magic, fantasy, immortals, high councils, end of the world scenarios and so much more. This story spans time and incorporated elements from Greek mythology, Egyptian mythology, Roman history and so much more, all blended together to create a magically woven story that captivates from the beginning.

This is a story about a race against time. Grace needs to run faster than the four horseman and stop them from causing chaos to the human world. Failure for her means the forfeit of her life and the destruction of the human realm.

Raphael is also in a race against time as one of the four horseman his is more than aware his time is growing short. Not only does he have to make sure that Dante is ready and prepared to take his place as death he also has to stop a theft of one of the most powerful ancient Egyptian relics. A relic that if it falls into the wrong hands could mean disaster for everyone not just the humans.

This is a captivating fantasy adventure that I read in one sitting and couldn't put down.
Profile Image for Angela.
7,876 reviews117 followers
October 14, 2025
4 - 4.5 Stars

The First Encounter is the prequel to the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen series by Caterina Novelliere. This story turned out to be a surprising little gem. I’m not sure what exactly that I was expecting when I first dove in but I soon found myself completely absorbed by the story that lay between the covers.
With so much going on, in the best kind of way, the author weaves a story that spans time, incorporating historical elements that blends Christianity, Celtic lore, Roman History, Egyptian & Greek Mythology, along with time travel, prophecy, a quest, a powerful relic, the paranormal, fantasy, immortals, politics, secrets, agendas, action, adventure, and so much more…
The author had me at ‘Four Horsemen’, the rest was icing on the cake… so I don’t want to spoil anything for you by giving too much away, but definitely recommend diving in blind and enjoying the ride.
Can’t wait to devour the rest of the series!
Happy reading…
1,909 reviews25 followers
November 7, 2025
The First Encounter by Caterina Novelliere. This is the prequel to the series about the Servants of Morrigan, the Four Horsemen. It's a novella about time travel, and mythology. It's super fast paced and you won't want to put it down until you are on the last page. It's the story of Raphael who is the commander of the Four Horsemen and he knows that his time is coming to an end very quickly. He is trying to find someone to replace him and its been harder than he thought. Dante is supposed to be his replacement but he is very hard headed and continues to want to do things his way. All of the Horsemen are trying to keep the relic safe that has the ability to destroy all of humanity. They are working diligently trying to keep it safe but it seems the harder they work the closer the end of times seem. Will all their hard work be for nothing? This is a novel about trying to bind humanity and ancient powers, powers that if they are in the wrong hands can destroy everything.
Profile Image for Ruxi Avram.
56 reviews2 followers
October 15, 2025
OK, so, the presentation and the mention of The Horsemen intrigued me and made me read this book! I can honestly say that the beginning was a bit of a struggle for me, all the characters thrown in at once, no explanation, a mix of gods from different beliefs, immortals and humans that travel in time and space with spells... all made me a bit queasy, but after a while, all made sense. Even the abrupt beginning.
I liked the book, and I will gladly dive in this universe! the characters are puzzling but in a good way, and I am really curious what will be next!
For me, this book is a 4.5-5 stars.
I have received this book via Booksirens as an ARC and I am leaving this review voluntarily! thank you, Caterina Novelliere for the book, I really enjoyed reading it!
Profile Image for Christina Davis.
36 reviews2 followers
November 1, 2025
The First Encounter sets the stakes high and the pace fast from the very beginning and keeps that going through the entire novella. There is a lot of world building between the mythology, countries, magic, time periods, and species. This makes the book very exciting (I read it in one sitting!) and the author does a great job of weaving explanations for new concepts into the plot - but it does mean you really have to pay close attention to what you're reading to keep up with all of the details and nuance. Oh and a number of characters have multiple names (for legitimate reasons), so that's another thing to pay attention to. This may be a novella that is under 200 pages but it packs a whole lot of action, interpersonal relationship development, and intrigue!
3,071 reviews33 followers
November 3, 2025
This book is the prequel to the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen series and is a brilliant way for it to start. The author throws you straight in with this book, introducing all of the characters immediately for you to navigate. Although the start is a little confusing as you are trying to get to grips with everything, you soon find yourself immersed in what is happening.
I loved the mix of characters in the book. They all had so much going on and the way their stories entwined was interesting to see. Although this book was only a novella, there was so much packed between the pages that it didn’t feel like it was too short. This book is a great indication as to what the series might hold in store.
Profile Image for Ayla Phipps.
379 reviews10 followers
November 7, 2025
Ready for book one like yesterday. Lol. So, I love all things Egyptian and seeing in the synopsis about the book of the dead I was instantly ready to jump into this world. This was the first book I have read by Caterina Novelliere but far from the last as I already have book one, Mark of the Night up, and ready to go as soon as I finish here. While I obviously have not read book one, yet I feel that if you plan to please, please read this one first, so much information, world building and character information begins here and can only make what it to come that much better with background info. Very short read so I don’t want to risk giving anything away but who knew that the closer the end got the more chaos would keep you going.
Profile Image for Amber Oakes.
126 reviews7 followers
November 7, 2025
Dante is being trained by Death himself to become one of the Horseman. But Raphael thought he had more time to make sure Dante was ready for what the fates had designed. They are now after a thief who has been stealing relics that will lead to finding the Book of the Dead. But soon they realize that the thief they are looking for is a woman who is not from their lands. And under the guard of the Hasan, who they cannot let the book fall into the hands of. After Grace has found the book, she tries to do the right thing and hide it from everyone. But has she been lied to the whole time and can she trust the Horseman with the blue eyes? This novella will get you interested in the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen series.
133 reviews7 followers
October 20, 2025
The First Encounter by Caterina Novelliere is a prequel to the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen series and has a lot between the covers. This book encompasses a wide range of elements, including Greek mythology, Egyptian mythology, Christianity, Celtic folklore, mortal, immortals, and time travel. The storylines and characters are woven together in such a way that is nothing short of masterful. We witness Dante as he becomes a horseman and follow him through his first assignment as the horsemen serve Morrigan. This is a fairly short book but don’t let that fool you – there’s a massive amount of story on these pages.
Profile Image for Carrie.
705 reviews14 followers
October 27, 2025
I was confused most of the book. I had to pick the book up and put it back down a couple of times to reset. The most interesting part to me would have to be the battle between the Horseman and Qasim. I was really invested in what happened to Grace and the book. Also, super upset about the outcome between Dante and Caitlin, but hoping for something more with them in the next book. There were so many different characters, religions, time frames, humans, immortals etc. that I got lost in what was happening and when. I do love a good time travel and although this wasn’t the book for me, I still found it entertaining and interesting.
Profile Image for Katie Burgess.
198 reviews
November 1, 2025
The First Encounter was a sweet and engaging romance that had just the right mix of tension and tenderness. I really enjoyed the chemistry between the characters—it felt authentic and made the story easy to get lost in. The pacing was smooth, and the setting added a nice touch to the overall vibe. A couple of plot points were a bit predictable, but it didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the journey. If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt love story with a little spice, this one’s definitely worth a read!
80 reviews1 follower
October 24, 2025
The First Encounter is the prequel novella to the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horseman series. When I started this book; it took me a couple of chapters to really appreciate the historical elements weaved into this beautifully written fantasy tale. There is so much to appreciate from this book.
It was entertaining and full of mythology and action. What a wonderful start to a series, I would recommend this book.
229 reviews3 followers
November 3, 2025
The four horsemen of the apocalypse, immortals, and modern-day civilians all intermingle in this story. Grace, a twenty-first century woman, has been kidnapped into the past to become a relic thief. She has been trained on how to evade everything, except Dante Giovanni, the horseman of Death. I was skeptical at the beginning of this book, but have completely fallen for it. I highly recommend this, and well, the whole series.

Profile Image for Rita White.
396 reviews4 followers
November 8, 2025
The First Encounter is a short novella and is the prequel to The Four Horsemen Series. It is a paranormal, fantasy novella with action, prophecies, quests, adventure, time travel, mythology and so much more packed in this short book.
The beginning of the book was hard to get in to with all the characters and trying to figure out who they were but then it just clicked and came together and I couldn't get enough and couldn't put it down! Outstanding novella and I can't wait to read the rest.
Profile Image for Susanne.
427 reviews9 followers
October 25, 2025
An excellent introduction to a new series. The Four Horsemen need to prevent the theft of the Book of the Dead. Up against a powerful enemy, it'll cost them a lot to achieve their goal. Plenty of action, gods and goddesses, love and loss. I look forward to continuing the series.
Thanks to Book Sirens and Caterina Novelliere for the free copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Rebecca Payne.
97 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2025
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. A unique take on the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. When the men decides to follow a woman he fell for he gets way more than he thought. There are many left over strands that I will need to read the rest of the series to have answers too. I definitely enjoyed reading about Raphael and Dante.
Profile Image for Darian -  Books With A Chance .
472 reviews8 followers
November 4, 2025
I enjoyed the book; I'll admit the beginning was a tad confusing but once I caught on I felt the author did a great job keeping my attention. There's a lot going on, not a bad thing; you have a lot of action mixed in with some fantasy. I thought the battle with the horsemen was cool and I feel there's a good mix of characters. I look forward to checking out the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Jayme Raffauf.
198 reviews3 followers
November 4, 2025
Pretty good story and a quick read. Lots of action, fantasy, time travel, destiny and mythology. This is a prequel novella in the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen Series. Fast paced and engaging. It took me a little bit of time to grasp all the characters, but not long before it really picked up pace and I couldn’t put it down. Well written and a lot is packed into this short novella.
336 reviews3 followers
November 4, 2025
This book. Just wow. I honestly had an impossible time putting it down once it started and Raphael's stress felt very much mine. The author did a wonderful job of creating balance, excitement, and just a good story all around. I really enjoyed this book and even recommended to a couple friends! Caterina gained a reader from me for sure and I'm excited to see what's next!!!
Profile Image for Finn Cunningham.
445 reviews8 followers
November 6, 2025
The First Encounter is the prequel of the "Servants of Morrigan: Four Horseman" series by Catarina Novelliere. I havent had the pleasure of reading the actual series yet, but I very much plan on doing so now! This is an enticing paranormal fantasy adventure where you'll just get lost in the magic! Definitely worth the read, don't be shy!
Profile Image for Dawn Cates.
11 reviews
November 7, 2025
The First Encounter by Caterina Novelliere is a prequel to the Servants of Morrigan: Four Horsemen series and has me wanting to read them all. The way this author has woven so many various mythologies together so beautifully makes this a very captivating read. I enjoyed storylines and characters and how they were woven together making me eager to read more from this series.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews

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