The Dreadful Queen

by Amber Selene, Always Amber

Imagine Hades and Persephone, but the underworld is a volcanic maze, the goddess was the villain, and the hero has to play a lava organ made of his own grief to earn his mate. In this mythical world filled with dark and inky prose, realms are fading, gods are disappearing, and the humans are the only ones who can save it all. It's mythic, it's horny, and it will wreck you.

252 pages, Hardcover

Published December 31, 2025

Reviews

[K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was raised on classic fantasy, and recent offerings in the genre (especially romantasy) just don’t live up to those high standards. Thankfully, The Dreadful Queen does! Not only are there mythological creatures, gods, goddesses, primordial beings, and immersive world building, this book brings them all together with deep thoughts on morality, philosophy, and absolutely authentic relationships between the characters. Beneath all of it runs a current of heart and hope that I found captivating. Five stars and a strong recommendation for this treat of a novel!

[Tally Fischer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Dreadful Queen is a beautifully crafted, lusty, fast paced thrill ride of a romantasy! Be ready to be immersed into a fantasy world filled with myths, magic, monsters, and drama as the main characters race against time to save their existence!! This book is not for the faint of heart and does contain some graphic content. I almost wish it was at least a duology! I would have loved to have seen some of the story lines fleshed out a bit more. Other than that, excellent storytelling! ❤️

[Book Wyrm · Rating 4 out of 5]

I admit I have never read anything like this before, nothing to do with mythological creatures, gods, goddesses ect.

I'm new to fantasy and dark romantasy so I never know where to dip my toes into.
But I found this book strangely so easy to read and to get into even though the style of writing isn't want I'm use to. Also the book itself is beautiful.

I'll be checking out more of their work for sure.

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great read! Amber's lyrical writing sucks you into this new world and makes you feel so deeply connected to her characters. It's a story of love and grief and redemption. Definitely get your hands on this one!

[Jillian Edwards · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is simply unreadable. The only “dark” thing about this book is the fact that it managed to be published in the first place.

[Kimberly Mansell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book really sucks you in, to where you dont wanna put the book down.