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Angel Sworn #3
Dark Queen
Not yet published
Expected 7 Apr 26In a world ravaged by monsters and ambition, survival demands impossible choices.
Metamorphistry has torn civilization apart. Cities have fallen. Kingdoms lie in ruin. From the chaos stalks a relentless golem, hunting a single prize—the angel sworn Cimree, whose curse turns any who behold her into stone.
While the other angel sworn take refuge in the caves of Tirich Mir, Cimree remains trapped beneath the shattered city of Ecbatana, hiding in its labyrinthine tunnels. She is bound by a rare and dangerous magic to Azra, a connection that both strengthens and endangers them. Enemies circle in the darkness, determined to destroy each other—and her. Her only confidante is a whispering serpent no one else can hear, a voice that may be a guide or temptation.
Fleeing Ecbatana with Azra means risking everything—trust, love, and the fragile safety of those she once saved. For Cimree’s curse is not just a weapon against her enemies. It is a threat to anyone who dares stand too close.
As the world fractures and ambition breeds ever-deadlier horrors, Cimree must decide what she is willing to sacrifice: her freedom, her future, or the people she loves.
Because some choices don’t demand courage.
They demand everything.
Jeff Wheeler delivers a powerful epic fantasy where cursed magic, impossible loyalty, and relentless danger collide in a world torn apart by ambition. Dark Queen is epic fantasy at its most gripping—where every bond is a risk, every choice carries devastating weight, and survival demands more than courage.
Metamorphistry has torn civilization apart. Cities have fallen. Kingdoms lie in ruin. From the chaos stalks a relentless golem, hunting a single prize—the angel sworn Cimree, whose curse turns any who behold her into stone.
While the other angel sworn take refuge in the caves of Tirich Mir, Cimree remains trapped beneath the shattered city of Ecbatana, hiding in its labyrinthine tunnels. She is bound by a rare and dangerous magic to Azra, a connection that both strengthens and endangers them. Enemies circle in the darkness, determined to destroy each other—and her. Her only confidante is a whispering serpent no one else can hear, a voice that may be a guide or temptation.
Fleeing Ecbatana with Azra means risking everything—trust, love, and the fragile safety of those she once saved. For Cimree’s curse is not just a weapon against her enemies. It is a threat to anyone who dares stand too close.
As the world fractures and ambition breeds ever-deadlier horrors, Cimree must decide what she is willing to sacrifice: her freedom, her future, or the people she loves.
Because some choices don’t demand courage.
They demand everything.
Jeff Wheeler delivers a powerful epic fantasy where cursed magic, impossible loyalty, and relentless danger collide in a world torn apart by ambition. Dark Queen is epic fantasy at its most gripping—where every bond is a risk, every choice carries devastating weight, and survival demands more than courage.
- GenresFantasy
307 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 7, 2026
8 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Wheeler
133 books5,266 followersWall Street Journal bestselling author Jeff Wheeler took an early retirement from his career at Intel in 2014 to write full-time. He is a husband, father of five, and a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff lives in the Rocky Mountains.
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
Learn about Jeff’s many worlds at www.jeff-wheeler.com, or participate in one of his online writing classes through Writer’s Block (www.writersblock.biz).
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April 1, 2026Review coming
April 1, 2026
I LOVED this book. I love Azra and Cimree so much. I love the story and all that is woven into it. I can’t wait to get the final book in the series. This is definitely a favorite series by this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dark Queen, the third book of the Angel Sworn series by Jeff Wheeler, delivers a richly satisfying serving of answers to the questions left lingering in the first two installments. It offers both readers and characters a chance to pause—to rest, to heal, to strategize—and to uncover truths that have long been out of reach.
While the novel can stand on its own, the experience is far more rewarding when approached with the full context of the earlier books. Dark Queen deepens the plot, enriches the characters, and expands the world Wheeler has so carefully crafted. Understanding what came before adds meaningful weight to the revelations and developments of this third installment.
Much of the story unfolds through a seamless interplay between two timelines: the past, set during the reign of the Queen Mother, and the present. The transitions are clear and purposeful, allowing the reader to move between eras without confusion. Through this structure, Wheeler gradually reveals the answers we’ve been waiting for, layering insight and context with precision.
If the entire series were bound into one sweeping volume, this installment would represent the rising action leading to the ultimate climax. Initially, this gave me pause as I considered my rating. However, as I reflected more deeply, it became clear that Dark Queen is not simply a bridge—it is an essential and masterfully executed part of a larger epic. That realization firmly secured its five-star rating.
While some readers may long for relentless, high-stakes action, the true strength of this novel lies in its exploration of deeper, existential conflicts: Why do bad things happen to good people? Should we always follow established laws, even when our hearts pull us in another direction? What tempts us toward moral compromise, and what ultimately defines our purpose? These questions elevate the narrative beyond mere adventure.
We grow especially close to Azra and Cimree, whose consistent choices and evolving perspectives offer powerful insight into the experiences that shaped them. At the same time, Wheeler continues to deliver the hallmarks of compelling fantasy: mythological magic, intriguing artifacts, and subtle connections to the broader universe of his other works. There is no shortage of action, unexpected twists, or moments that compel you to keep turning the pages.
Wheeler’s imaginative re-envisioning of the creation story, combined with the wisdom his characters gain and the trials they endure, forms a poignant allegory for the struggles of our own world. Themes of power, pride, greed, and cultural tension are woven throughout, counterbalanced by the overarching message of hope: that we are guided by an all-knowing creator, who protects us, grants us choice, calls us into meaningful relationships, and encourages us to extend compassion to others—and ourselves.
Dark Queen stands as a masterful, deeply satisfying third installment in the Angel Sworn series. It resolves many of the lingering threads from Tyrant Queen while introducing compelling new twists that pull us eagerly toward book four.
As Wheeler himself aptly states in his author’s note, “that’s all for today!”
While the novel can stand on its own, the experience is far more rewarding when approached with the full context of the earlier books. Dark Queen deepens the plot, enriches the characters, and expands the world Wheeler has so carefully crafted. Understanding what came before adds meaningful weight to the revelations and developments of this third installment.
Much of the story unfolds through a seamless interplay between two timelines: the past, set during the reign of the Queen Mother, and the present. The transitions are clear and purposeful, allowing the reader to move between eras without confusion. Through this structure, Wheeler gradually reveals the answers we’ve been waiting for, layering insight and context with precision.
If the entire series were bound into one sweeping volume, this installment would represent the rising action leading to the ultimate climax. Initially, this gave me pause as I considered my rating. However, as I reflected more deeply, it became clear that Dark Queen is not simply a bridge—it is an essential and masterfully executed part of a larger epic. That realization firmly secured its five-star rating.
While some readers may long for relentless, high-stakes action, the true strength of this novel lies in its exploration of deeper, existential conflicts: Why do bad things happen to good people? Should we always follow established laws, even when our hearts pull us in another direction? What tempts us toward moral compromise, and what ultimately defines our purpose? These questions elevate the narrative beyond mere adventure.
We grow especially close to Azra and Cimree, whose consistent choices and evolving perspectives offer powerful insight into the experiences that shaped them. At the same time, Wheeler continues to deliver the hallmarks of compelling fantasy: mythological magic, intriguing artifacts, and subtle connections to the broader universe of his other works. There is no shortage of action, unexpected twists, or moments that compel you to keep turning the pages.
Wheeler’s imaginative re-envisioning of the creation story, combined with the wisdom his characters gain and the trials they endure, forms a poignant allegory for the struggles of our own world. Themes of power, pride, greed, and cultural tension are woven throughout, counterbalanced by the overarching message of hope: that we are guided by an all-knowing creator, who protects us, grants us choice, calls us into meaningful relationships, and encourages us to extend compassion to others—and ourselves.
Dark Queen stands as a masterful, deeply satisfying third installment in the Angel Sworn series. It resolves many of the lingering threads from Tyrant Queen while introducing compelling new twists that pull us eagerly toward book four.
As Wheeler himself aptly states in his author’s note, “that’s all for today!”
Review of advance copy
It's book 3 of the series Angel Sworn, of which this is the first book I read. And you know what, it didn't matter. I didn't feel like I was missing any information and I was able to get on with enjoying the book due to its eminent readability.
The main character is Cimree and we moved back and forth in her time line as the story develops, building her character and others as we go. There are Angel Sworn, Dryads, Golem and other creatures, including a snake that Cimree can communicate with via thoughts.
She wants to save the world, but others don't necessarily believe what she tells them. And the world is vast, with the descriptions of the different places giving such a good sense of how big they were, or how closed in, depending on whether it was a marshy valley or an underground network of tunnels and rooms. Describing the sounds and smells gave me a real sense of presence too, excellent writing quality.
I like Cimree's instinctive healers nature, the gentleness and care that comes across. Even when it would be so easy to let people die in her presence, due to their nature, her nature is to preserve them.
I did get lost a little from time to time, there were a lot of names to carry in my memory. Sometimes I just had to rely on the story-telling to get me through.
Thank you to BookSprout and Oliver Herber Books for approving me to read this book.
The main character is Cimree and we moved back and forth in her time line as the story develops, building her character and others as we go. There are Angel Sworn, Dryads, Golem and other creatures, including a snake that Cimree can communicate with via thoughts.
She wants to save the world, but others don't necessarily believe what she tells them. And the world is vast, with the descriptions of the different places giving such a good sense of how big they were, or how closed in, depending on whether it was a marshy valley or an underground network of tunnels and rooms. Describing the sounds and smells gave me a real sense of presence too, excellent writing quality.
I like Cimree's instinctive healers nature, the gentleness and care that comes across. Even when it would be so easy to let people die in her presence, due to their nature, her nature is to preserve them.
I did get lost a little from time to time, there were a lot of names to carry in my memory. Sometimes I just had to rely on the story-telling to get me through.
Thank you to BookSprout and Oliver Herber Books for approving me to read this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Part 3 of the Angel Sworn series (and not the last in case, like me, you hadn’t realised until recently).
As ever there are early hints on where the story is going in the prologue (set in Cimree’s past), before the story picks up where it left off (Tyrant Queen) with Cimree still stuck in the catacombs beneath the city of Ecbatana. As the tale continues, interspersed with Cimree & Azra’s backstory, Cimree finally joins the others in Tirich Mir … but of course not without some plot developments, trials and shocks along the way.
The further revelations about the twisted version of history they have all been taught to believe keep coming, and the character development (raw in places) definitely drew me in, wanting to know more and see this latest ‘Wheeler World’ arc through.
As you might expect, whilst much of the back story plays through in this instalment, loose ends are not all tied up, and the long teased traitor isn’t revealed … like others I’m now left eagerly awaiting the next instalment (Serpent Queen, due July’26), and wondering which ‘previous’ series I might re-read in the meantime (following up on some of the now less subtle connections) - well played Mr W !
I received a free advance copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As ever there are early hints on where the story is going in the prologue (set in Cimree’s past), before the story picks up where it left off (Tyrant Queen) with Cimree still stuck in the catacombs beneath the city of Ecbatana. As the tale continues, interspersed with Cimree & Azra’s backstory, Cimree finally joins the others in Tirich Mir … but of course not without some plot developments, trials and shocks along the way.
The further revelations about the twisted version of history they have all been taught to believe keep coming, and the character development (raw in places) definitely drew me in, wanting to know more and see this latest ‘Wheeler World’ arc through.
As you might expect, whilst much of the back story plays through in this instalment, loose ends are not all tied up, and the long teased traitor isn’t revealed … like others I’m now left eagerly awaiting the next instalment (Serpent Queen, due July’26), and wondering which ‘previous’ series I might re-read in the meantime (following up on some of the now less subtle connections) - well played Mr W !
I received a free advance copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Jeff Wheeler pulls us in again for the third installment of Cimree and Agra’s story. If you like intrigue, following clues to “aha!” moments and holding your breath as you and the characters drop into yet another twist in the story (or backstory reveal!), this book is for you. I love every series Wheeler has written, and I am enamored with these characters, and the hints Jeff is dropping connecting this world to his others. Cimree and Azra endure more trials as they continue on their quest to discover just exactly how they fit together, and the concurrent quest to save their world from annihilation. This third book of the Angel Sworn series will have you questioning your memory just as the characters wrestle with theirs, and watching Cimree continue to struggle with her Medusa-like state will wring your heart. Other scenes will warm your heart with joy. Do yourself a favor and continue your journey with Cimree and Azra in Dark Queen!.
I received a review copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a review copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I love the story that was developed in the first two books. The story moved along nicely in the first two books, however each book left the reader with so many questions about how the people of Clairvaux got to where they were. Dark Queen finally fills in the blanks answering the questions and the result was so rewarding. I loved learning about Cimree, Azra and Chrys and how their stories intertwined. I loved learning about the importance of their mission and why they worked so hard to protect their mission to save the world they live in. I particularly enjoyed Trinati's story and seeing her character grow. Her pride and desire for power made her truly unlikable. Seeing her struggle to become a better person was a refreshing change for the character
The story was an action packed page turner with many surprises. Anyone who loved the first two books will be thrilled with Dark Angel and will be anxiously awaiting the final book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story was an action packed page turner with many surprises. Anyone who loved the first two books will be thrilled with Dark Angel and will be anxiously awaiting the final book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was worried that I wouldn’t have enough time to read this ARC before the publication day. But I had of course forgotten how much I love Jeff Wheeler's writing and his storytelling. So I finished it quite quickly and it did not disappoint.
The writing flows nicely and the story is compelling and exciting. I have loved seeing where these characters lead us and I can’t wait to read the next and final book in the series.
If you like a lot of world building and character driven tales, you will love this series. Mr Wheeler often weaves his love of our real life history into his books and you can often catch a recognisable glimpse of a character or a retelling of a part of our history or lore.
I would highly recommend this book as part of a series, you won’t be disappointed it’s a real page turner and a great old yarn.
The writing flows nicely and the story is compelling and exciting. I have loved seeing where these characters lead us and I can’t wait to read the next and final book in the series.
If you like a lot of world building and character driven tales, you will love this series. Mr Wheeler often weaves his love of our real life history into his books and you can often catch a recognisable glimpse of a character or a retelling of a part of our history or lore.
I would highly recommend this book as part of a series, you won’t be disappointed it’s a real page turner and a great old yarn.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book expands a lot of Cimree and Azra's backstory through a series of flashbacks, but there's a lot of twists when Dryad memory magic is involved! Also lots of interesting connections as they learn to follow the impressions they start receiving as they continue to sort through the consequences of broken civilizations. This story returns to a style reminiscent of the Muirwood series, so if you enjoyed that one (it was my favorite series) this has a lot of the same character-driven vibes. One of the interesting things it makes you think about is what the world would be like if people really could live for eons, or restart their life without their previous experience. My only true disappointment was that I found out it was not the end of a trilogy but there's actually going to be more - gasp! - the horror of waiting in eager anticipation.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This latest installment of the Angel Sworn series is one of the best books I have read in a long time. Book 2 was good, but this one, is Amazing!! I felt fear, joy, love and hope as I continued to read. Cimree and Azra’s journey to find themselves and find their love, not just for each other, but for everyone in their world is inspiring. The golem is the fear we face daily. Jeff has given us a way to combat that fear with love and understanding. The roads our protagonists have taken are winding, but they ultimately lead to a path of salvation through compassion. I look forward to the last installment of this series. Jeff Wheeler has stolen my heart yet again with his words. I highly recommend this book and series to anyone looking for a new path for your heart.
Review of advance copy received from Author
One of my favorite things about Jeff Wheeler’s novels are his characters. The struggle, overcoming adversity, defying the odds, unwavering faith, and lessons about personal development. Cimree and the other main characters of Dark Queen go through their own versions of this. Jeff doesn’t disappoint with imagery and emotional connection. I feel what Cimree is feeling as she struggles with her transformation and learning all the secrets that have been withheld from her and the others. I’m super excited for the 4th book to come out to finish this series off. I highly recommend the Angel Sworn series but after you have read the Whispers of Mirrowen.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2026
I’ve really enjoyed this author’s books and was excited to dive into Dark Queen, especially as the third installment in the series. While the writing is still solid and the world remains interesting, this one felt noticeably slower than the previous entries. Much of the story read like a bridge between major events rather than a fully satisfying arc on its own.
That said, there are still intriguing developments and enough groundwork laid to keep me invested. This book seems very much like a setup for the finale, and I’m hopeful everything will tie together in the last installment. I’ll definitely be reading on — just wish this one had a bit more momentum.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
That said, there are still intriguing developments and enough groundwork laid to keep me invested. This book seems very much like a setup for the finale, and I’m hopeful everything will tie together in the last installment. I’ll definitely be reading on — just wish this one had a bit more momentum.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The story of Cimree continues with many revelations. Jeff Wheeler incorporates his ancient quotes with flashbacks to Cimree's and Azra's earlier lives with the continuation of the plot. Azra again proves his loyalty and care for Cimree. This seamless weaving of the story is fraught with obstacles, sadness, and confrontation. Trinati reappears remorseful, but then showing flashes of her true colors, is she a traitor or is it the influence of the enmity snake?
Jodocus is introduced both in past scenes but also in an epilogue that promises more mayhem. There is surely more darkness to come!
Jodocus is introduced both in past scenes but also in an epilogue that promises more mayhem. There is surely more darkness to come!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Dark Queen was thrilling to read. This book has a slower pace than Tyrant Queen, only because the action is slightly less, but Wheeler had my heart racing with each page that ramped up the stakes. By the end I truly don't know how they're going to get out of their desperate situation. I mean I have ideas. but bro.
I cried. I cheered. it was a rollercoaster in the best way.
and Oh. MAN. my heart.
I don't think it will recover.
I REALLY loved the themes in this book of forgiveness and redemption. It was beautifully done.
And that ending 👀
Give me book 4 immediately please.
I cried. I cheered. it was a rollercoaster in the best way.
and Oh. MAN. my heart.
I don't think it will recover.
I REALLY loved the themes in this book of forgiveness and redemption. It was beautifully done.
And that ending 👀
Give me book 4 immediately please.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’re looking for a hard hitting action packed story I don’t think this is the book for you.
But if you’re looking for a solid story line from start to finish, pick up Dark Queen. A solid third book to the series that was hard to put down. Good attention to detail by the author. He really makes you grow attached to the characters and feel for them. Was left on a tiny. It of a cliffhanger but it just makes you look forward to the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But if you’re looking for a solid story line from start to finish, pick up Dark Queen. A solid third book to the series that was hard to put down. Good attention to detail by the author. He really makes you grow attached to the characters and feel for them. Was left on a tiny. It of a cliffhanger but it just makes you look forward to the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Finally we are getting more background info on Cimree and Azra, and it wasn’t what I expected! Knowing more about their past has me more invested in the characters and desiring to follow their trials to see the outcome. I’m really glad I didn’t stop at the first book, like I almost did. Lots of shadows of Wheeler’s other books and series in here. It will be fun to see how it all shakes out!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It really is quite lucky that my favorite author is magic and manages to produce multiple books a year without the story lines starting to feel tired. In fact, I'm currently re-reading Whispers from Mirrowen and am loving the little easter eggs I'm currently seeing tied into that series from Angel Sworn!
I enjoyed learning more from Cimree and Azra's past, and see some things start to tie together- as well as gain new questions that I need answered!
Can't wait for the next one!
I enjoyed learning more from Cimree and Azra's past, and see some things start to tie together- as well as gain new questions that I need answered!
Can't wait for the next one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jeff Wheeler has done it again. He continues the Angel Sworn series with another amazing addition. I still feel the same attachment to the characters, but I feel I understand them even more. There is still suspense and unexpected turns, but it is done masterfully so that it doesn't feel impossible. The book is well written and I love that it is clean so that I can let my daughters read it as well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I savored this one taking longer to read each section. I enjoyed it and look forward to the conclusion of this series. I tend to appreciate less action and more cerebral prose, and this hit the mark for me. Just enough action to keep me reading, and not so much to give me a stroke.
Review of advance copy
Even though I enjoyed the book, it made me uncomfortable due to its subject matter. As a Christian, I view Biblical subjects quite seriously and when you take the Creation story and start messing with it, it does make me uncomfortable. That said, I'm curious to see how Wheeler connects this to his other published novels - especially the hetaera aspect of the main character.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews