Deathbringer: Order of the First Family: Book Two

by Marie Maness

Case
Deception and death linger behind every corner, shaking Case to his core. The people were promised peace, but Dumuzi threatens that with his very existence. The prince wants nothing more than to be the Peacebringer everyone was promised, but enemies are everywhere and he can’t be sure who to trust.

Isha
She let her walls down, only to be reminded of why she had them up in the first place. The Goddess of Love and War finds herself caught in the middle of her past and her present. Isha wants her sister back and her ex-husband’s head on a platter. No matter what it takes, she’s determined to have both.

Sometimes to bring peace you must also bring death. Will this truth be Case and Isha’s undoing? Or will their bond grow stronger than ever?

491 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 1, 2026

About the author

Author Marie Maness is a self published author that specializes in reimagined Mythology with a big helping of spice. Literature, writing, and history have always been her biggest passions. Combining them all into one has been a dream come true for the small town indie author. Born in Central Kentucky, she currently lives in South Central Kentucky with her husband and four children and loves the quiet little town life. Marie hopes her writing will encourage people everywhere to embrace their bodies and sexuality, to find pleasure in all of life’s aspects, and to remember that love is infinite.

Reviews

[Grace Btrs (semi ia - mostly overwhelmed)]

Pre-read:
My biggest flex is that the FMC is inspired by me 🥹
Beta reading this beauty📖

[Riley McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC reader review: (potential spoilers, not major)

I love the family dynamic between Isha and her siblings.
Nin defying her sister despite being held prisoner brings me joy that she’s not just another damsel in distress and is instead acting like the goddess she is.
It’s so refreshing to see characters not always blaming others before they know the facts, but are instead reasonably understanding and supportive concerning the situation.

Songs:
“Start a war” Klergy & Valerie Broussard
“Rise Up” TheFatRat
“Lover. Fighter.” SVRCINA
“Voices” Hidden Citizen
Isha to Dumuzi:
“Goodbye boy” Peg Parnevik
“SMILE MORE” Beth Crowley

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you thought the cliffhanger in Peacebringer left you reeling, just wait until you dive into Deathbringer by Marie Maness. This second installment in the Orders of the First Family series absolutely earns its spot on your TBR.

I had the privilege of beta reading again, and Marie proves once more that she knows exactly how to seize your attention and refuse to let go. From the very first chapter, the stakes are higher, the danger is sharper, and the emotional pull is relentless.

Watching Case step fully into his power was incredibly satisfying. His growth feels hard won and deeply earned. And the evolution of his bond with Isha? Powerful. Intense. Unbreakable. Seeing them navigate their connection as husband and wife while embracing Isha’s goddess abilities added so much depth to their relationship.

The twists kept coming, each one tightening the grip on the story. I found myself cheering for the heroes and fuming at the villains more than once. This book delivers action, emotion, and moments that will absolutely require tissues.

If you love fantasy filled with power, loyalty, high stakes, and a romance forged in fire, do not miss this one.

[Kristen N · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deathbringer throws you straight back into the devastation that Peacebringer left behind. The heartache starts on page one and continues playing with your heart throughout the entire book. The wounds feel so much deeper while everything that could have fallen apart finally does and the war leaves you not wanting to stop, a need to continue just to make sure they all survive the day.

Isha and Case are more than just a couple, they are life goals. Through all the mistakes they make they don’t just survive, they evolve into something more. Elevating their love into something magical.

When they’re torn apart, Marie writes it in such a way you can feel the separation. And when they fight to find their way back to each other, you sit on the edge of your seat begging for everyone to be okay.

The book doesnt leave any confusion. It gives you closure where it matters most, while pulling you into the next part of the series. The ending of Case and Ishas story is the beginning to Theos.

In a story of magic and mythology Marie has hit the target. in a story of love and passion she has us dreaming of what a love like that could be like. Five stars without any hesitation. 🖤🖤

[Olga Ziminska · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author or allowing me to Arc read this fantastic novel!

I absolutely loved Peacebringer, but this book?? A perfect continuation in the Orders of the First Family!
Seeing Case come into his power made me so happy, but also the action? Ugh! The author does such a great job building intensity in these scenes that I was on the edge of my seat! I’m pretty sure I went through a full range of emotions while reading this.

The spice is SPICY and I love how it is planted throughout the story! You will not want to put this book down!

I am so excited to learn what comes next!

[Hannah M Burrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am very appreciative that I got to read Deathbringer, as an eARC, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

I loved this so much. A great conclusion to Case and Isha’s story. Reading their relationship develop was so good!
I really enjoyed the dynamic of the multi-POV chapters, especially getting to see Nin really grow into her strengths.
Waiting for Theo’s story next; I anticipate another amazing story!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely LOVE this series! I can’t get enough of Case and Isha! They’re so amazing together!! What a roller coaster this book was! Marie knew absolutely where to hit you in the feels for this one!! I absolutely thought Peacebringer was amazing this one is somehow even more amazing!!! I can’t wait for what’s next in the series!!

[Matthew Mason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Got sooooo very lucky getting to be an ARC reader for this - thank you so much! - was looking forward to book 2 since I finished Peacebringer's ARC lol - did NOT disappoint at all :D

Seeee.... I just *KNEW* I was gonna hate myself for diving into this one before we even had an estimate on book 3s ARC applications :P - I even re-read the first one before hand JUST because it was so good and would re-acquaint me with the characters and the world and all, and I just absolutely devoured my way through both - and the second one was EVEN better than the first - but now I NEEEEEED book 3 lol - I *really* should learn better and just wait until full series are out lol - but I'm too impatient for that.

Where....do...I....even....*begin* with this one? The plot, the characters, the emotion, the romance, the freaking Carolina Reaper of Pepper X level spice that is just to die for.... I mean c'mon - the throne room scene?!!? - now I've got at least 2 FANTASTIC series off the top of my head with throne room scenes that are just fun as heck to read :P - That's not even touching on at LEAST half of the other scenes where Isha helps Case explore, teaches him, even gets to take charge some herself in ways that somehow are even hotter seeing him just trusting her so much knowing she'll stop the second he tells her to, even as when the shoes' on the other foot, I still don't think he's discovered remotely just how kinky his wife actually is :P (to be fair she's literally been around for forever). I cannot wait to see more of them - how far they go, how long it takes for her to get pregnant, how many kids they have, if they ever decide to have Anu give him immortality, or maybe she somehow finds a way to give hers up idk - I'm hoping for like 10 more books at least with all the gang.

Also, jesus blood christ - can we PLEASE give poor Case and David a freaking break already - like DAMN - I thought losing my dad as a senior in high-school in late November was bad, but fuckkk - these poor kids - they're led to believe their sister died when they were kids, sending their mom into a detached checked-out depression mostly, and their dad into an abusive absolute POS - with a little help from some foul play yes, but they have to deal and live with that, Case basically raising and doing everything he can and suffering and being traumatized and abused to crazy levels to protect his little brother, only to then get matched with the raging entitled bitch that is Margot, only to thankfully get that engagement broken off, only to then be promised to marry one of the "demon" kings' daughters, but ends up marrying the freaking GODDESS of war and love, who has a DERANGED rapist obsessed power-hungry egotistical ex she sent to the Underworld when she caught him cheating on her, only to be forced into trading his wife for his family, only for that swap to go wrong and end up getting everyone but his wife's sister back, and then has to deal with the fallout of all of that while finding out he and his brother aren't as alone as they thought they were, that his parents' actions weren't entirely their own, only to then have the absolute shit-show that is Dumzai go down - like their lives are the the train wreck you can't stop watching as it just keeps on going causing more and more destruction - poor guys.

And Theo - dude is a freaking PLAYER lol - I'm already predicting his wildly fun relationship with his the twins is going to grow to include a certain shifter prince that was a wildly fun twist and revelation that I did NOT see coming - I figured animosity was due to some fight or one having killed someone in the others' family or something like that, the real reason is so much more fun and adds some juicy past history that I DEFINITELY imagine is going to come to light - and the princes' mother seems to be quite excited about it too lol - the next books with Theo and the start of where his story has just unexpectedly jumped to well before expected is going to be so fun.

I just LOVE the whole family of the gods, but Anu being so understanding, Nin and her husband and how they are with Amara, etc. But Isha - Isha is freaking AMAZING - the way she encourages and pushed Case, the way she is helping him to heal along with her and his family to grow his powers, explore and embrace life in ways he never could as life keeps forcing him to grow up and step up in ways he shouldn't have to yet, but does so good at doing. And on the note, Case - dude has NO idea how powerful he is, and with all his trauma and abusive history with his father and being put down and all, still struggling at times to see himself the way Isha sees him, the way his little brother and his cousin see him, the way his people, and the other orders are starting to see him when he helps the shifters, and calls on the witches, the shifters, etc for help, I could go on for DAYS about how absolutely green flag he and Isha and his family and the gods all seem to be - and I cannot wait to see more of his story - ngl - would be HAPPY to have another 15 books whose main focus was solely Case and Isha and her continuing to help him heal, grow stronger, embrace and regain confidence, learn to rule, make her a mother, join all the races, etc - and I definitely hope we see more of them than just passing mentions as we dive into Theo and the witches, the shfiters, the twins, and Amara and Nin and Shepulte, and more.

Favorite quotes that stood out that wasn't one of the spicy scenes:
"I try to focus on the ceremony happening in front of me. Case and Isha kneel as Ewan says some fancy words no one can understand because the giant of a man sounds so Scottish he might as well have a bagpipe up his ass. Gods I love that big man, even if he is the offspring of the Loch Ness monster."
- lol -

I'm gonna stop myself here before I get too spoiler-y or go on too long - few final thoughts - unless your heart is made of stone, you best make sure you have tissues ready - you WILL be needing them at least a couple times in this one, you will not wanna put it down so either prepare to read for like 6 hours non-stop or know that it's going to be hard to stop.

INSTANT 5/5, would give it 100/5 stars if I could - this is a MUST read and already I can tell you this is going to probably be in my top 3-5, definitely top 10 books for the year! I need book 3 asap please :P

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a disappointment this book was. Picking up where the cliffhanger in Peacebringer left off, it finds Case and Isha continuing to learn to trust and lean into their relationship, especially where Case is developing his powers and how to wield them in combination with Isha. Where Peacebringer is a dual POV, this book introduces two more voices, one of which is one of the book villains, and this addition is creates the books weaknesses. By telling us the reader and one of the other characters whose POV we’re reading exactly what the villain is going to do and then letting that character be caught off guard when this happens, especially when there was time to prepare counter measures feels like a let down to the readers and the characters’ established intelligence and abilities. This happens again and again throughout the book, we read what the different characters, specifically the gods, powers and abilities are, yet when the fight comes, suddenly no one remembers what they can do which feels like a let down considering all the time spent in the book that all of these characters spend training. This book ends with an HEA for Case and Isha but still has a cliffhanger for one of the other characters from the books that is the lead in for the next book in this series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good duology and road to the next set of books! Wraps up the story *good enough* but leaves enough out there to make you want to read what comes next.

Case continues to be the best golden retriever you just want to hug, while Isha continues to be that (probably venomous) black cat that you also somehow want to hug. What I love about Marie’s couples is that they are not dependent on each other, but they depend on each other. They can individual hold their own and be awesome. But they help each other become better versions of themselves. This duology also has some fun reverse tropes. And of course, the spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️

This book had more situations that made my blood boil (Marie is great at writing villains), and scenes that destroyed my soul. All while still giving Case and Isha an ending they deserve (or at least until we meet them again).

I got to Beta read this one and I’m so glad I did. I don’t do well with cliffhangers and I needed to know what happened after Peacebringer. This did not disappoint!

[Barbara Mann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The stakes feel higher this time, with tension threaded through every chapter as he struggles to live up to the promise of being the Peacebringer. His internal conflict is compelling, especially as trust becomes more dangerous than any visible enemy. Isha’s arc is just as gripping. Watching her lower her guard only to be hurt again adds an emotional weight that balances the action. She embodies both love and war in a way that feels raw and believable. It’s also nice to see how the FMC and MMC relationship progresses from the last book. Their bond deepens under pressure, and the push-and-pull between them adds both tension and heart to the story. The dynamic feels earned rather than rushed, making their connection one of the strongest elements of the book. The story does a great job of blending emotional depth with high-stakes conflict, though at times the pacing can feel slightly uneven with so many threads in play. Still, the themes of sacrifice, trust, and the cost of peace land well. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Barbara Schoonover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc/Beta read

Ugh… Marie, why do you do this to me!

This series is going to be the absolute death of me. Not only do we get our conclusion for Isha and Case we are set up for what is coming in the future books and ugh Marie the gods damned cliff hangers!

The action is non stop in book two as we start with Nin still in the underworld and the race to save her, But we also get a lot of angst, trauma work through and a whole heck of a lot of delicious spice that will have you clutching your thighs as our main couple work through everything that is happening. Beautifully written as always with just the perfect amount of love, acceptance and angst, Marie has made another stunning novel that will make you fall in love with her characters and their world, (before ripping out your heart)

If you enjoy myth retellings you’ll never miss with Marie’s books and this is no different, pick up the series, fall in love, but be prepared for the million mile cliff hangers!

[Sam Goodin · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶🌶🌶.5
Advance Read given by Author.
This is an honest review ✨️✨️

Marie is now the queen of spicy shower scenes. 🥵

This book follows after Peacebringer. There are complex characters with many POVs throughout the entire book. The spice was giving. The emotions were high. The action was descriptive.

The characters in Marie's worlds are relatable. They joke, cry, have past issues and future hopes. They talk, they listen and they grow together. Well other than the villains. 😂

Read this if you like sweet couples that help each other heal while being immersed in a world of magic. Below is some spoilers ⚠️

⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️
-lgtbq+
- she's older
- he has self esteem issues
- gods/hunters/supernatural
- different realms
- magic
- prophecy
- attempted sexual assault
- death
- War
- found family
- MCs healing
- ptsd
- HEA
- talk of pregnancy and children

[Ellie Clin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first want to thank Marie Maness for letting me be an arch reader for this wonderful series.

Amazing read. I was at the edge of my seat during the entire book. I’m happy our main couple got their happy ending, though, I do wish Dumuzi would have suffered further for his actions, but his death was satisfying! He got what he deserved for the abuse he caused.
At the end of the first book, I didn’t understand why Case did what he did, but his explanations made so much sense and I felt sorry for him. He is truly a sweetheart, and so is Isha. They both are wonderful.
The king and queen’s death were tragic, I wish the siblings would have gotten more time with them, I felt for Case when he received the bloodied crowns.
I’m impatient for book 3!

[Maggie Berggren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc-review.

This book is so enticing, Case is in for the biggest ride yet and he's still going strong.
And the relationship he has with Isha is just beautiful.

They listen and try to understand the other person's POV, and even when Dumuzi is being that big knucklehead that he is, they still are going strong together.

The relationship between the siblings are beautiful too, and its refreshing to see the dynamics between them.

And don't even get me started with Case family. I won't spoil, but I was not ready.

This is a must read, and you'll definitely want to sign up for the next coming books.

[Rope Bound Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marie does not miss! The growth of both Case and Isha throughout this book is phenomenal, but let's face it, I am here for the vibes.... which are immaculate!

There is angst, betrayal, hard conversations, reclamation of power, and, of course, some delightfully spicy moments. I laughed, I cried, I cursed Marie for making me love so many fictional characters.

This duet is definitely more than vibes, though, and I have loved diving into the First Family stories. I just know the whole family has got some tea to spill, and of course, Theo's book is a necessity in my life.

[Leslie Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Deathbringer picks up where the Peacebringer leaves off. This book still gives you complex characters, chef kiss spicy scenes, multiple POVs, and the MC’s relationship with each other are life goals.

One of the things that pointed out for me are the supporting characters and the villains of the story. The author gave them a much bigger role in the story which gives you a better view into their psyche.

Me secretly praying that Theo gets his own story.

[Lexy Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

A total flip on every trope!

The story continues without disappointing. There are twists galore and surprises we should have seen coming (this is unusual- I can usually predict how a book will flow from the beginning). Case and Isha model relationship goals. It’s so refreshing to read a book that demonstrates a toxic relationship isn’t required for great drama.

[Sabrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing follow up to book one. I believe this couple is done and on to the next. I love how they will all be interconnected. This was such a great wrap up and set for the next one. She is one that will keep you on your toes and he is one to keep up and give it back. Love this book down and I can't wait for the next one. 5/5 10/10

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love the way Case and Isha's story came together! This book was a rollercoaster of emotion, with twists throughout! The spice was perfect, the characters genuine and relateable, the plot fast. Highly recommend! Now to impatiently wait for the next book in this series!

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Cute duology! I enjoyed Isha and Case’s connection!

Witches, demons, gods, and spice?

I really like book one a lot more but overall it was a good series

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the first one, but this one, I'm obsessed. This book had my heart rate going crazy and had me desperately turning the pages to see what happened next. Case is my new book husband and Theo has officially become a new book boyfriend. I can't wait to see where this series goes next. Had the absolute privilege to be a beta reader for this amazing book by the brilliant author Marie Maness.