Wrath & Desire

Realm of Zadrya #2

by Susan Illene

Darrow is raw power exemplified.
He is full of secrets and pain.
The dark elf isn’t satisfied with only marrying me.
Oh, no. He wants it all—my body, heart, and soul.
I must resist despite being his fated mate.
Because if I don't, he could break me, and I'm already at my limit.

Aella is everything I'm not.
She is full of compassion and resilience.
The half-druid's grace and odd fondness for plants bring me to my knees.
Though I cannot love her, I need to own her in every way.
She can resist all she wants, but I'll do whatever it takes.
No price is too high, even if it breaks me.

But now, war and death plague us.
My mother's people have invaded our realm with ruthless precision.
Our monarchy is at stake.
And a blight is rapidly spreading to kill the land.
Powerful forces are at work to divide our people.
I may wish I could focus entirely on my new wife.
But we must find a way to save our world.
Even if it means traveling to a distant one with its own dangers.
That is...if we can find a way there before the enemy stops us.
Somehow, they’re ahead of us at every turn.

Note- This novel contains adult content, including graphic violence, foul language, rough spicy scenes, torture, and divine astral projection/consensual body sharing between multiple characters (of a sexual nature).

Other content warnings- weird homicidal chickens, terrifying hordes of venomous frogs, sentient plants with murderous attitudes...actually, many flora and fauna are not what they seem in this world, so assume nothing and mentally prepare yourself for anything. It’s fantasy. Immerse yourself in the madness or go find another genre.

Genres: Romantasy, Fantasy

655 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication February 23, 2026

About the author

Susan Illene served in the US Army for eleven years and worked as a human resources specialist and an Arabic linguist. She served two deployments to Iraq, and after leaving the army, she studied history at the University of Oklahoma. She currently lives with her husband and two sons.

Reviews

[Raquel Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew this book was going to be amazing but Susan went above and beyond on this one! The spice is ramped up, the action is perfect, the feels had me all over the place, Darrow has me wanting to be Aella, Dolly is the best most chaotic chicken, and the plants! I don't think I have the right words for how the plants will make you feel in Wrath & Desire, you will not be disappointed!

Aella, oh my, I don't know how she's still standing with everything that has happened to her. All I know is she is one of the best fmcs I've ever read.

Now, let me tell you about how in love with Darrow I am. Book 1, he was great, really great. W&D has me swooning over this man. He'll make you cry, laugh, yell at him and fall in love! We see a completely different side of Dare that I'm so here for.

I cannot wait for book 3!

P.S. The spice in this one, yes, just yes. Get ready for some fun scenes!

[Annie Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

O.M.G. ALL THE STARS! WHAT A RIDE!

I love this series from the bottom of my heart. I love that I'm never quite sure what the next plot twist is going to be. It's both characters I want to read more about and epic world building. It's everything I want out of a book and then some.

Funny story- When I got the arc for book 2 I started reading it then realized I kinda forgot which countries were which.... so I went back and started reading random passages from book 1. I quickly fell back in love with book 1 and reread the entire thing from the beginning. That is how epic this series is and it definitely does not suffer from second book syndrome. I can't wait to find out what happens next!

Thank you to BookSirens for the ARC. This is my honest review.

[Dawn Smit · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a fabulous sequel!

I loved going back to the Realm of Zadrya and seeing Darrow and Aella again

Susan Illene definitely turned up the volume on this one and I loved every moment of it. We got more spice, more action, more villains and more beautiful world building and more of our favorite Sentient plants 😍

Do yourself a favor and grab these books, spend way too much time staring at their stunning covers and then immerse yourself in this magical world - you will not be sorry

Thank you Susan for letting me ARC read for you again, it was shear joy 💕

[Jennifer Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love that this picks up right after O&V, Darrow and Aella are navigating their marriage while trying to save their world from dying. This is an emotional rollercoaster, you still have the tensions from book 1, trust issues galore, betrayals and back stabbing. Your heartbreaks for our FMC AND MMC as we learn more about what makes them tick. The spice is...all I'll say is GOD SEX...whoo Book 3 can't wait.

[Michelle Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! So good. This book has everything. Most second books are not as good as the first, but I have to say, this one is. Action, romance, betrayal, murder garden, crazy chicken. What more could you want. Please, please read this one. You will not be disappointed.

[bluevioletbb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy moly. Wrath & Desire absolutely blew me away — a solid 5 stars and my favorite of the two books (and I loved Oaths & Vengeance at 4.5 stars!).

This picks up immediately after book one, and the momentum does not let up. The character development for both Aella and Dare is on another level. Watching their relationship evolve as fated mates — while battling both physical and emotional barriers — was intense, messy, and completely addictive. They’re trying to find their way to each other in the only ways they know how, and it’s anything but easy.

Aella goes THROUGH it in this book. One brutal hit after another, and I honestly don’t know how she keeps standing. She may seem soft, warm, and full of light, but in book two she’s forced to confront the harsh reality that the world isn’t what it seems — and neither are the people in it. The growth we see in her strength, awareness, and resilience made me love her even more. And getting to meet more of her family? Incredible. The emotional weight just keeps building.

And Dare… he is raw power. Full of secrets. Full of pain. You learn more about this childhood growing up in Karganoth. The half dark elf doesn’t just want a political marriage with Aella — he wants everything: body, heart, soul. His possessiveness, his internal conflict, his desperation — it’s deliciously tortured. You go through the entire book thinking, is it really him being possessive because she is his fated mate, or did he already fall in love with Aella deep down? He believes he cannot love her, yet he cannot let her go. The tension between needing to resist and wanting to surrender? Absolutely unmatched.

The stakes are sky-high in this installment. We’re talking war with the dark elves. A spreading blight killing the land. A monarchy on the brink. Ruthless invasions. Political manipulation. Powerful forces working to divide realms. Somehow the enemy is always one step ahead. The epic fight scenes? Truly epic. High intensity, cinematic, and emotionally charged.

The worldbuilding expands beautifully in this book. We get deeper lore, more insight into the realms, and a richer understanding of the magic system. Everything feels bigger, darker, and more immersive.

And somehow, in the middle of war and devastation, we still get the garden and the chicken. I cannot explain how much I love this detail. The cozy little touches woven into such a high-stakes plot make the story feel grounded and human. It makes me giggle every time.

This book is emotional, brutal, romantic, and powerful. It tests both Aella and Dare to their limits — and maybe beyond. If book one hooked me, book two owned me completely.

Obsessed. Five stars. I need the next one immediately.

Thank you to Susan for sending the eARC to me via NetGalley (also thanks!) in exchange for an honest review. It was amazing to ARC read for Oaths & Vengeance and now Wrath & Desire. 

[Ashleigh Neame · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wrath & Desire, book 2 of the Realm of Zadrya series, picks up right where book 1 left off. Darrow has rescued Aella from her uncle's dungeon, and things are changing. He's finally realised how important she is to him, even if he can't love her (read the book to find out why!), and he's determined to show her. While he does his best to do exactly that, their kingdom is under attack from dark elves, who are determined to destroy the planet they live on.

Wrath & Desire fleshes out the world of Paxia (the planet) more than Oaths & Vengeance did. In this book, we get to explore Darrow's part of the world, Veronna, and his hometown, Darynia. It's a very nature-based world, allowing Aella to rebuild her sentient murder garden in her new home. We also learn a bit more about how Darrow's magic works, how it affects him, and the consequences of him using it. I don't want to say too much for fear of revealing spoilers, but the clue is in the title: Wrath & Desire. Darrow & Aella.

The relationship between Darrow and Aella was my favourite part of the story. Their relationship is very "enemies-to-lovers", even on book 2. Darrow desperately wants to show Aella how much he cares for her, but Aella refuses to give him her heart. While they're no longer "enemies" in the traditional sense, there's still a push-pull conflict between them that feels true to how their relationship began. The author has created a realistic relationship dynamic while still injecting hope for more, with the "happy-for-now" ending.

In book 1, Darrow initially comes across as a bit "Grumpy" of the Grumpy x Sunshine trope. He still carries some of that into book 2, but we learn more about why he is the way he is, creating some interesting character development. He also has a "touch her and die" attitude about his wife, which I'm a HUGE fan of. *fans self*

Aella is less "Sunshine" this time around. While she tries to stay positive early on, her naivety leads to heartbreak in the most soul-crushing way. She shuts down, creating more conflict between her and Darrow. I felt awful for Aella when it happened, and if she were real, I would've given her a giant hug.

There are 185,000 words in this book, which I binge-read over 3 days. It's even better than the first book in the series, which I rated 5 stars. In the days since I finished Wrath & Desire, I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. If I wasn't already committed to reading other books (book club and blog tours), I 'd be immediately rereading books 1 and 2.

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the stars!!!! Let me just say...... Chicken, and Frogs, and Dragons OH MY!!!!! And can't forget our murderous plants.

The chicken stole the show for me BTW. That was amazing! And the amount of fear around the yellow frogs had me giggling.

Ok, so this book leaves off where the first one ends. So good! We have our MMC (Darrow - AKA Dare) and our MFC (Aella). We meet some new friends and get back with old friends. There is a betrayal that cuts majorly deep! We have more plants and I so want a plan. As the story progresses, we find that our MMC and MFC need to "finish" their bond. They do this in the most usual way. And I'm here for it! I was actually a part of how to "list" this and was cracking up trying to figure out how to name it without giving away a bunch of details. As the story does progress, there is a lot of relationship building and world building. The world they live on is dying and our friends need to work to save the planet by returning the fountain (which is on another planet if you recall from book 1). Dragons are dying, plants are dying, people are dying.... Everyone is dying... Ok, well that was an exaggeration. BUT the story is great. There is spice in this one and you learn more about our MFC and her darker side. There is some vengeance in here of course. And I absolutely love Dare... He's now in my top 10 book boyfriends. Even with his curse. And we meet a cute new plant...... that can kill you. HAHAHAHA.

The ending of this book isn't a cliff hanger per se. It does leave with wanting more and needing more but it doesn't leave you in a WTF moment. It's a nice way to leave the story off. OH I forgot to add, I cried in a couple spots. This book had me with all the emotions, happy, sad, mad (well more like pissed), and just all of them.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book early. It would have been read faster if it wasn't for being sick.... The last half of the book I was struggling to put it down. It's soooo good. All the stars from me. And those that read my review, know I don't give out 5 stars like candy.

[FictionalFlair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wrath & Desire is a true epic fantasy with spicy romance.

Aella and Darrow are in their 30's and 40's, which in itself is a breath of fresh air. They both have strong personalities and traits, that we grow to learn about. Darrow especially shows signs of ADHD, through restlessness and fidgeting. They are/were enemies in book 1. W&D takes place directly after book 1 and we get to see so much more:
🌎 world building
❤️relationship development
🥹Character development
🆘️plot thickening
🫅🏼political strategising
📚book series linking
🐔hilarious side characters. Think chickens and plants!🌵

For those of us that enjoy spice, you'll be excited to know it starts getting heated in the beginning of the book in a unique way.

Aella is a true representation of surviving trauma. She hasn't got it all worked out. She does keep it bottled deep. Like many of us do. I really connected with her in how she handles herself and own emotions while still being selfless.

Darrow is swoon worthy in this. He has a deeper narrative in this book and his actions betray his reputation, and he's hot 🔥

This series is somewhat of a standalone, but if you want a better connection to the book and all the races that inhabit the Realm of Zadrya, I highly recommend reading Susans' earlier series called Dragon Breath.

It has been a wild ride, waiting for this installment and reading it. The chapters from 40 onwards had me unable to put it down. I am grateful to the author for the early copy of this book in exchange for honest feedback.
I am counting down the days until book 3!

[Megan Collick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love when a second book in the series captures the essence that made me love book one and runs with it. Not only did this book run with it, it built upon it and it was even better than the first. The banter, the emotions, the characters, and the sentient plants, I cannot get enough. Darrow and Aella’s relationship grew in this installment. Their chemistry is amazing and they had me giggling, kicking my feet, and wanting to throw my kindle in frustration all in one book. The story really pulls you in and makes you feel what these characters are feeling. The pain, relief, anger, and joy, its all so vivid on page. I never knew I could love a such thing as sentient plants and now I want a baby cacti for myself. Maybe some crunchertraps too. I appreciate a cliffhanger that leaves you wanting to know what’s next, but also leaves you in a place where you can breathe and reflect before that comes. Thank you Susan Ilene once again for an ARC, I absolutely cannot wait for book 3!

[Raechel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was an ARC reader for book 1 in this series (Oaths & Vengenace) and absolutely loved it! I'm stoked Susan took a chance with me again on Book 2. This book had different vibes -- I think because of its place in the series (book 2 out of 5 planned) -- but was equally as good!


Loved:
Aella is doing her best to navigate her trauma and the continuous betrayal she cannot seem to escqape. It’s a harrowing tale.
Despite his curse, Dare seems able and willing to give Aella all she needs. Although, that’s part of the curse, isn’t it? ::sigh::
Sentient plants, wild chickens, and even dragons.
Divine astral projection sex is a doozy. You’ll love it.

Notes:
For me, this book in the series was plot heavy and did a lot of world-building.
The push-and-pull between Aella and Darrow is delicious and also tiresome. I might be more ready for Dare’s curse to break than Aella is.
We gain a lot of insight into interesting side characters!

[GenXBookBestie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We pick up right where book one left us gasping. The stakes, higher. The tension? Thicker than Darrow’s brooding silence.

That cursed dark elf really said I cannot love you, while actively taking on the universe for Aella.
Sir. Be serious. If that’s not love, it’s the deluxe subscription version.

Aella rebuilding her sentient murder garden in the middle of political chaos and incoming doom was the chaotic horticultural therapy I didn’t know I needed. Nothing says resilience like delegating war prep between watering carnivorous shrubs.

Twists. Betrayals. Curses. Astral spice that absolutely spiced. Good golly, Ms. Illene! I was fanning myself and side eyeing my Kindle!
And the weird homicidal chicken? The venomous frog hordes? The flora with attitude problems? This book looked me in the eye and said assume nothing and I obeyed.
Book three immediately! I am not asking. I am channeling.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good sequel!

I love watching Darrow and Aella together. They are much closer than book one but they aren’t as close as they could be. Between his curse and her inability to trust it isn’t an easy road for them.

There’s the war gearing up which brings lots of its own issues and heart wrenching moments. Then there’s the continued work to figure out how to get the fountain back to stop the blight before it destroys the world.

As if all that isn’t enough, Aella learns a lot of information about herself and her family. Some joyous but a lot heartbreaking.

Then there’s the murder plants, still bringing Aella (and let’s be real me too lol) lots of joy. Then there’s the….. crazy murder chicken…. And we get to see dragons in action.

All in all it is totally worth picking up when it comes out!

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

QOTD - if the portals were real where would you want to go? Me - Winter time - Florida Keys. Summer time - up north Montana, Idaho, Canada etc . . Wonder if you could go to parallel universe? 🧐

ARC Review-

Wrath & Desire is book 2 of the Realm of Zadrya, and it blew me out of the realm. Darrow, Aella, and friends continue the epic fight to save their world and some of the events in the book had me laughing uncontrollably, followed by a blush from the steamy scenes. The missions they undertake are filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept my heart racing at times.
I could go on and on, but I don’t want to spoil it for you. It is a phenomenal story that left me craving more.

🥵 off the 📈
🗣️banter
🚶‍♀️medium pace
🌄adventures
🌪️twisted plots
🪄magic and the side characters
💗LOVED the Sentiment plants 🪴 🌵
🦄 mystical creatures. 🐓
😈 meddling gods

[Kate Lang · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are building on so many different things in this one. From our understanding of the world and the decay to individual character development and transformation.
I loved getting to see Aella's darker side and to see Darrow's growth with softness. The breadth of magic that we are learning about and seeing is great!
I have cried, laughed, raged, and giggled throughout this one. I wasn't sure whether to clench my jaw or let it hit the floor with the ending. I'm sure there's more to it and we'll get it eventually, but I really hope Darrow kicks his butt soon.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Patricia Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

In an incredible follow-up to Oaths & Vengeance, Dare and Aella now face an even bigger challenge than some grouchy relatives and their invading armies. Now they must actually bond with each other…the horror(being sarcastic)…and save the world. Besides Aella’s murderous plants, now the couple face horny and vengeful gods, some still grumpy relatives and a whole new world to retrieve an artifact that will preserve their world and their way of life. But during intergalactic travel, their problems will only multiply. I was an advanced reader for Susan Illene and I am truly excited to see where the story takes our little exploration party next.

[EJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Susan Illene for the ARC! ✨

What a incredible follow up to Oaths & Vengeance.
If you loved Aella and Darrow in the first book, you're going to fall hard for them in Wrath & Desire!
The book lives up to its name!!

Susan has an incredible way to get you lost in the world she has created, that's one of the reasons I love the books. It will be a series that you'll be so invested in.

This time were amped up, more action, villians, twists and turns(!!) and more action between Aella and Darrow.
I really enjoyed getting more backgrounds on why the MC are the way they are.

And of course the sentiment plants and mystical creatures have to get a honourable mention!

[Amanda White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness did Illene ramp it up in Book 2 of the Realm of Zadrya series! More action, more sizzling chemistry, more villainous villains, and just more of everything.
The world building continued to be rich and well thought out, there were twists I didn’t see coming, and plenty of sexy scenes and action to keep me turning those pages late into the night. Wrath and Desire had great overall story progression for the main series and of course there was interesting, horrifying and yet hilarious moments with the sentient plants of the Realm …

[C M · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this book 100 stars I would. The second book picks up exactly after the first book. We get dual pov with Aella and Darrow throughout. The plants are prevalent and we get introduced to some more! Wait until the desert, your heart will melt. I love meeting the new characters and learning old characters back stories. You NEED to read this. Did i mending there's a purple and green chicken (Dolly) who will crack you up?! I could not put this book down and I cannot wait for book 3.

Thank you for letting me be an ARC reader!

[Katriona · Rating 5 out of 5]

While we didn’t end on a cliff hangar I definitely have more questions than answers!
I really enjoyed falling back into Paxia with Darrow & Aella, I especially enjoyed that Darrow is trying so hard & is so determined!
I loved the carnivorous flora, how Aella lights up at their mention.
And then there’s Dolly i definitely need more on her!
Thank you so much for having me as part of the ARC team 😍