What do you think?
Rate this book
Cast from the Dark
She was never meant to escape.
Before Caspian Vayne, the notorious Captain of the Bloodmarked, purchases her for his crew's entertainment, Rohen Levitte is an elite assassin. Always unwillingly chained to another man, she finds herself craving freedom, something the open sea gives her a taste of. Folding herself into the incapable woman she wants them to believe she is, a dark and stormy night grants her the opportunity to escape into the hands of Caspian’s ex-best friend, Alastair Seridean, the Captain of the rival crew, Scarlet Tempest.
Caspian Vayne, a man purchased from the underground markets and trained by the corrupt king, barely grasps the reins of freedom. Branded by the Royal Crest, his damned past litters his skin along with the scars he’s earned. Carrying knowledge he cannot share, he is not unfamiliar with betrayal, but the night Rohen Levitte slaughters half of his crew, a newfound hatred blooms.
As the hunt continues for the legendary Eyes of Ellira—a Damned goddess who once commanded the sea—and the power they hold, the two destined by fate clash as deceit pollutes the veins of the Capital. While the humans battle for power, the Damned, gods who fell in love with humans and were cast out, and the Others, sinister beings who divided divinity in two, are at war for control.
Will Rohen and Caspian uncover their lineage before it is too late? One thing is certain. The sea will remember her. And Caspian Vayne will regret the day he ever touched a blade of the king.
Before Caspian Vayne, the notorious Captain of the Bloodmarked, purchases her for his crew's entertainment, Rohen Levitte is an elite assassin. Always unwillingly chained to another man, she finds herself craving freedom, something the open sea gives her a taste of. Folding herself into the incapable woman she wants them to believe she is, a dark and stormy night grants her the opportunity to escape into the hands of Caspian’s ex-best friend, Alastair Seridean, the Captain of the rival crew, Scarlet Tempest.
Caspian Vayne, a man purchased from the underground markets and trained by the corrupt king, barely grasps the reins of freedom. Branded by the Royal Crest, his damned past litters his skin along with the scars he’s earned. Carrying knowledge he cannot share, he is not unfamiliar with betrayal, but the night Rohen Levitte slaughters half of his crew, a newfound hatred blooms.
As the hunt continues for the legendary Eyes of Ellira—a Damned goddess who once commanded the sea—and the power they hold, the two destined by fate clash as deceit pollutes the veins of the Capital. While the humans battle for power, the Damned, gods who fell in love with humans and were cast out, and the Others, sinister beings who divided divinity in two, are at war for control.
Will Rohen and Caspian uncover their lineage before it is too late? One thing is certain. The sea will remember her. And Caspian Vayne will regret the day he ever touched a blade of the king.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2026
About the author
Asher D. Payne
10 books112 followersAsher D. Payne has been writing since she can remember, desiring nothing more than putting her imagination on paper for others to enjoy. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, she strives to bring relationships into her books that stray from the stereotypes displayed in other forms of media. When she isn't engrossed in writing, she enjoys reading from her endless TBR list, playing with her pitbull, hitting the gym, and refining her self-defense skills. You can connect with her on Instagram @author.asherdpayne and TikTok @asher.d.payne
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
June 22, 2026
Asher’s debut into dark fantasy was absolutely mind blowing. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to ARC read Cast From the Dark, and cannot wait for more in this series.
The world building and character development are equally well done. Each of the MCs, as well as secondary characters are more than surface deep, and Asher does an amazing job of making you fall for them and relate to their endeavors and pasts.
With twists, turns and buried secrets as the plot unfurls, I was left gasping and guessing. I am so excited to see what is in store next.
The world building and character development are equally well done. Each of the MCs, as well as secondary characters are more than surface deep, and Asher does an amazing job of making you fall for them and relate to their endeavors and pasts.
With twists, turns and buried secrets as the plot unfurls, I was left gasping and guessing. I am so excited to see what is in store next.
May 15, 2026
4.5 stars!
Pirates and assassins? Yes please. This book was impossible to put down, it had me hooked from the very first page.
Our FMC, Rohan, is a fierce assassin who has no problem killing any man who dares threaten her. Then we have Caspian, our MMC and dangerously charming pirate captain. When he enters a brothel intending to purchase the assassin posing as one of the workers, he’s instantly drawn to her for reasons he can’t explain. Rohan resists him at every turn. He only manages to get her aboard his ship by knocking her out. Despite the undeniable pull between them, she refuses to let herself be tied down by any man ever again. Can I just say how much I adore his nickname for her, little siren.
The story follows Rohan’s escape into the hands of Caspian’s so called enemies… but are they really his enemies after all? This story becomes so much bigger than just Rohan and Caspian as they’re forced to work together to stop the corruption and destruction threatening everything around them.
And the tension? Absolutely incredible. I am feral for fated mates, and while it’s only hinted at throughout the story, we can only assume that’s exactly what “mizani” means.
Pirates and assassins? Yes please. This book was impossible to put down, it had me hooked from the very first page.
Our FMC, Rohan, is a fierce assassin who has no problem killing any man who dares threaten her. Then we have Caspian, our MMC and dangerously charming pirate captain. When he enters a brothel intending to purchase the assassin posing as one of the workers, he’s instantly drawn to her for reasons he can’t explain. Rohan resists him at every turn. He only manages to get her aboard his ship by knocking her out. Despite the undeniable pull between them, she refuses to let herself be tied down by any man ever again. Can I just say how much I adore his nickname for her, little siren.
The story follows Rohan’s escape into the hands of Caspian’s so called enemies… but are they really his enemies after all? This story becomes so much bigger than just Rohan and Caspian as they’re forced to work together to stop the corruption and destruction threatening everything around them.
And the tension? Absolutely incredible. I am feral for fated mates, and while it’s only hinted at throughout the story, we can only assume that’s exactly what “mizani” means.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2026
First, thank you for the ARC — I’m so grateful to have had the chance to read this ahead of its May 19th publication.
If you love your fantasy dark, emotional, and a little feral (in the best way), Cast from the Dark absolutely delivers. This dark fantasy throws you straight into a brutal, immersive world filled with assassins, pirates, dangerous magic, and unforgettable feminine rage.
Rohen and Caspian are true enemies to… something more. And when I say enemies, I mean real tension! mistrust, sharp edges, and chemistry that feels almost dangerous. Their dynamic is layered, messy, and completely addictive. Add in that high spice level 🌶🌶🌶🌶 and the slow burn tension hits even harder.
The world building is rich and atmospheric, you can practically taste the salt air and feel the danger simmering beneath every alliance. Twists are woven throughout, keeping the stakes high and the tension tight. This story also dives into heavy trauma, so definitely check trigger warnings before going in.
And that ending? A full, unapologetic cliffhanger that will have you desperate for book two.
If you’re into dark fantasy with morally gray characters, enemies to lovers tension on the high seas, and a story fueled by vengeance, vulnerability, and rage,this is for you.
If you love your fantasy dark, emotional, and a little feral (in the best way), Cast from the Dark absolutely delivers. This dark fantasy throws you straight into a brutal, immersive world filled with assassins, pirates, dangerous magic, and unforgettable feminine rage.
Rohen and Caspian are true enemies to… something more. And when I say enemies, I mean real tension! mistrust, sharp edges, and chemistry that feels almost dangerous. Their dynamic is layered, messy, and completely addictive. Add in that high spice level 🌶🌶🌶🌶 and the slow burn tension hits even harder.
The world building is rich and atmospheric, you can practically taste the salt air and feel the danger simmering beneath every alliance. Twists are woven throughout, keeping the stakes high and the tension tight. This story also dives into heavy trauma, so definitely check trigger warnings before going in.
And that ending? A full, unapologetic cliffhanger that will have you desperate for book two.
If you’re into dark fantasy with morally gray characters, enemies to lovers tension on the high seas, and a story fueled by vengeance, vulnerability, and rage,this is for you.
May 18, 2026
ARC review
3.25 stars
* dark pirate fantasy
* complex world with deities, magical creatures, eldritch horrors
* dark themes of control and torture (physical, sexual and emotional)
* multi POV
* morally black or gray MCs
This was a fast-paced read full of morally black characters who all make violent choices guided by past abuse or under the control or influence of others. There’s only 2 characters that I would classify as gray and 1 as a decent person. I don’t mind any of that. I’m cool with rooting for the bad guys, especially when the alternative is that much worse.
There’s a lot of lore about deities and Others and prophecy that wasn’t as well explained as I would have liked, but a lot was dragged down by the flowery prose. There’s a lot of description and some word choices that technically fit but didn’t really make sense.
There was also a TON of “tell me” instead of “show me” particularly when it came to the torture and abuses that the MCs have suffered. Much is alluded to without being just stated outright. Do we want to be shown torture scenes? Maybe? But we definitely don’t want to just be told them in exposition.
All that being said, I need to know what comes next, especially in regard to sweet baby Kael, prince of the realm and son to the most evil king around. His lover has been slaughtered by the man now forced to guard him. He’s surrounded by enemies. And he’s the brightest light shining in the story.
Fantastic queer male rep too! Kael’s relationship with his one true love is inspirational.
Thanks so much to the author and Crowns & Chaos for the ARC.
3.25 stars
* dark pirate fantasy
* complex world with deities, magical creatures, eldritch horrors
* dark themes of control and torture (physical, sexual and emotional)
* multi POV
* morally black or gray MCs
This was a fast-paced read full of morally black characters who all make violent choices guided by past abuse or under the control or influence of others. There’s only 2 characters that I would classify as gray and 1 as a decent person. I don’t mind any of that. I’m cool with rooting for the bad guys, especially when the alternative is that much worse.
There’s a lot of lore about deities and Others and prophecy that wasn’t as well explained as I would have liked, but a lot was dragged down by the flowery prose. There’s a lot of description and some word choices that technically fit but didn’t really make sense.
There was also a TON of “tell me” instead of “show me” particularly when it came to the torture and abuses that the MCs have suffered. Much is alluded to without being just stated outright. Do we want to be shown torture scenes? Maybe? But we definitely don’t want to just be told them in exposition.
All that being said, I need to know what comes next, especially in regard to sweet baby Kael, prince of the realm and son to the most evil king around. His lover has been slaughtered by the man now forced to guard him. He’s surrounded by enemies. And he’s the brightest light shining in the story.
Fantastic queer male rep too! Kael’s relationship with his one true love is inspirational.
Thanks so much to the author and Crowns & Chaos for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2026
♾️⭐️This book was just beyond everything! It was so good. It had me thinking about it when I wasn’t reading it, had me counting down the time till I was able to pick it up again.
Asher has a beautiful way with words. I love her lyrical style and how she can pull you into her settings. She makes you feel like you’re standing right there, on the street, on the ship, in the tavern, whatever setting it is and watching the story unfold in front of you. This story is very dark and gritty. It makes you think and pay attention. The pacing was superb and pulled you along throughout, never once letting your attention stray. The banter throughout between ALL our characters is top notch!
Our fmc is Rohen, a deady assassin absolutely FULL of feminine rage. She was taken in as a child by the master of assassins who groomed her in EVERY WAY. And I mean every way (ew), so her trauma and rage is absolutely understandable. She’s smart, determined, and absolutely loathes our mmc. Also, she’s a bada**! She suffers from chronic ptsd which Asher portrays beautifully.
Our mmc is Caspian. He’s a pirate, a ship captain, he can’t swim, has a nipple chain, is sexually fluid, and someone you love to hate and hate to love. He’s so complex that his character just draws you in. He also has massive ptsd, anxiety, uses alcohol to escape, and loves to read. And he calls Rohen ‘Little Siren’. His yearning for her is filled with absolute hatred and confusion.
Now this story is enemies to lovers but there is NOTHING but enemies in book 1, so grab your comfort blanket and hold on tight! Saying that, there is spice and it is delicious! It’s just not between our two MCs. Asher brings us so many incredible characters with numerous layers. We’ve got Alastair, the golden retriever with bite. He’s Caspian’s ex-best friend and competing ship captain. Pay attention to that storyline people! Leilani is Alastair’s better half. She’s smart, stubborn, mouthy, and will absolutely fool you with her cinnamon roll tendencies. Syoran is Caspian’s right hand man. He consistently reels Caspian back in (or he tries to). He’s the light grey to Caspian’s black. Their relationship is devoted, loyal, and life-long.
We also have Prince Kael and her royal guard Percy, who also happens to be the love of his life. Their bond is beautiful.
For another layer to this incredible story, let’s add in fallen gods and prophecies. The gods that Asher created are unique and so very creepy! Their powers are interesting and trying to figure out what they’re up to grabs you and doesn’t let go.
You’re going to find forced proximity, found family, brutality, pirate life, corrupt rulers, political movers, lgbtq+ reps, mental health reps, betrayal, and morally DARK grey characters throughout. And no character is safe!
Pay attention when you read. If you notice something being repeated, then tuck that into your brain and make connections. Asher is the queen at hiding hints throughout her books but BEWARE! She’s also the queen of cliffhangers. This book’s cliffhanger was jaw dropping! Like my jaw actually dropped open and then I was mad it was over! Like… Asher how dare you?!?
Asher has a beautiful way with words. I love her lyrical style and how she can pull you into her settings. She makes you feel like you’re standing right there, on the street, on the ship, in the tavern, whatever setting it is and watching the story unfold in front of you. This story is very dark and gritty. It makes you think and pay attention. The pacing was superb and pulled you along throughout, never once letting your attention stray. The banter throughout between ALL our characters is top notch!
Our fmc is Rohen, a deady assassin absolutely FULL of feminine rage. She was taken in as a child by the master of assassins who groomed her in EVERY WAY. And I mean every way (ew), so her trauma and rage is absolutely understandable. She’s smart, determined, and absolutely loathes our mmc. Also, she’s a bada**! She suffers from chronic ptsd which Asher portrays beautifully.
Our mmc is Caspian. He’s a pirate, a ship captain, he can’t swim, has a nipple chain, is sexually fluid, and someone you love to hate and hate to love. He’s so complex that his character just draws you in. He also has massive ptsd, anxiety, uses alcohol to escape, and loves to read. And he calls Rohen ‘Little Siren’. His yearning for her is filled with absolute hatred and confusion.
Now this story is enemies to lovers but there is NOTHING but enemies in book 1, so grab your comfort blanket and hold on tight! Saying that, there is spice and it is delicious! It’s just not between our two MCs. Asher brings us so many incredible characters with numerous layers. We’ve got Alastair, the golden retriever with bite. He’s Caspian’s ex-best friend and competing ship captain. Pay attention to that storyline people! Leilani is Alastair’s better half. She’s smart, stubborn, mouthy, and will absolutely fool you with her cinnamon roll tendencies. Syoran is Caspian’s right hand man. He consistently reels Caspian back in (or he tries to). He’s the light grey to Caspian’s black. Their relationship is devoted, loyal, and life-long.
We also have Prince Kael and her royal guard Percy, who also happens to be the love of his life. Their bond is beautiful.
For another layer to this incredible story, let’s add in fallen gods and prophecies. The gods that Asher created are unique and so very creepy! Their powers are interesting and trying to figure out what they’re up to grabs you and doesn’t let go.
You’re going to find forced proximity, found family, brutality, pirate life, corrupt rulers, political movers, lgbtq+ reps, mental health reps, betrayal, and morally DARK grey characters throughout. And no character is safe!
Pay attention when you read. If you notice something being repeated, then tuck that into your brain and make connections. Asher is the queen at hiding hints throughout her books but BEWARE! She’s also the queen of cliffhangers. This book’s cliffhanger was jaw dropping! Like my jaw actually dropped open and then I was mad it was over! Like… Asher how dare you?!?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Crowns and Chaos LM and the author for the e-ARC.
Cast from the Dark follows Rohen Levitte, an elite assassin who has spent most of her life under the control of men who shaped her into a weapon. When she crosses paths with Caspian Vayne, the notorious captain of the Bloodmarked, her life is thrown into the dangerous world of pirates, rival crews, corrupt rulers, fallen gods, and prophecies buried beneath the sea.
This is a dark fantasy where freedom is never simple, trust is almost impossible, and every character seems to be carrying secrets, scars, or both.
What I loved most about Cast from the Dark was how alive everything felt. This is not just a pirate fantasy with assassins and blood-soaked tension. It is a world with history under its skin. The sea feels ancient. The gods feel dangerous. The politics feel rotten. Every place, from taverns and ships to stormy docks and hidden corners of the realm, carries its own atmosphere.
The characters were easily the strongest part for me. Rohen is sharp, furious, wounded, and impossible not to root for. She is the kind of FMC who has been forced to survive everything and still refuses to be softened into obedience. Caspian is equally complex, morally dark, damaged, and dangerous in a way that makes him frustrating, fascinating, and impossible to look away from.
I also loved that the side characters did not feel like background decoration. Everyone had their own scars, motives, secrets, loyalties, and tensions, which made the story feel bigger than just the main couple. The found family threads, rival crews, old betrayals, and complicated bonds gave the book so much emotional weight.
The world building is rich without feeling empty or decorative. There are fallen gods, prophecy, corrupt rulers, dangerous magic, pirate politics, and a sea that feels like it remembers everything.
And the prose? Dark, dramatic, and immersive. Asher D. Payne writes with a very vivid, atmospheric style that makes the danger, tension, rage, and longing feel close enough to touch.
This is definitely a darker read, so I would recommend checking trigger warnings before going in. But if you love true enemies, pirates, assassins, feminine rage, morally gray characters, fallen gods, found family, and messy, dangerous tension, this is absolutely one to add to your TBR.
Dark. Brutal. Addictive.
4.5/5 ⭐
Cast from the Dark follows Rohen Levitte, an elite assassin who has spent most of her life under the control of men who shaped her into a weapon. When she crosses paths with Caspian Vayne, the notorious captain of the Bloodmarked, her life is thrown into the dangerous world of pirates, rival crews, corrupt rulers, fallen gods, and prophecies buried beneath the sea.
This is a dark fantasy where freedom is never simple, trust is almost impossible, and every character seems to be carrying secrets, scars, or both.
What I loved most about Cast from the Dark was how alive everything felt. This is not just a pirate fantasy with assassins and blood-soaked tension. It is a world with history under its skin. The sea feels ancient. The gods feel dangerous. The politics feel rotten. Every place, from taverns and ships to stormy docks and hidden corners of the realm, carries its own atmosphere.
The characters were easily the strongest part for me. Rohen is sharp, furious, wounded, and impossible not to root for. She is the kind of FMC who has been forced to survive everything and still refuses to be softened into obedience. Caspian is equally complex, morally dark, damaged, and dangerous in a way that makes him frustrating, fascinating, and impossible to look away from.
I also loved that the side characters did not feel like background decoration. Everyone had their own scars, motives, secrets, loyalties, and tensions, which made the story feel bigger than just the main couple. The found family threads, rival crews, old betrayals, and complicated bonds gave the book so much emotional weight.
The world building is rich without feeling empty or decorative. There are fallen gods, prophecy, corrupt rulers, dangerous magic, pirate politics, and a sea that feels like it remembers everything.
And the prose? Dark, dramatic, and immersive. Asher D. Payne writes with a very vivid, atmospheric style that makes the danger, tension, rage, and longing feel close enough to touch.
This is definitely a darker read, so I would recommend checking trigger warnings before going in. But if you love true enemies, pirates, assassins, feminine rage, morally gray characters, fallen gods, found family, and messy, dangerous tension, this is absolutely one to add to your TBR.
Dark. Brutal. Addictive.
4.5/5 ⭐
July 6, 2026
I've had my eye on this one for a while, pirates plus complex characters is exactly my thing, and still, nothing prepared me for this!
This one is dark. Like actually dark. Like child grooming/SA dark (brief memories), so check your TWs. They are adults now, and that trauma obviously suffuses everything about them. These characters are built out of trauma and both Caspian and Rohen are just simmering in volatile emotions almost at all times. The world around them is so cruel and the abuse in their pasts is so heavy, that of course they're all a mess. Their choices actually make sense given what they've survived, which is the thing that keeps unhinged characters from just feeling exhausting. You understand why they're like this even when they're being completely feral. Nobody in this book knows how to regulate a single feeling. Every reaction is dialed to eleven, every decision is dramatic, and honestly, yep makes sense.
And it's just fun to sit in that chaos. These aren't quiet, composed people making measured choices; they're volatile and messy and reactive, and there's something really satisfying about characters who quite obviously need therapy. And they're some of the thirstiest people I've seen. It's a lot, sure, but it fits the over-the-top energy of everything else, so I can't even be mad about it. It's part of the package.
This is dark, dramatic, over the top in every direction, and honestly just delightful because of it. Not a book for anyone wanting subtlety or restraint, but if you want pirates who feel everything way too intensely and never once apologize for it, this delivers.
Add to your TBR if you want a story with:
🏴☠️ Rival Pirates, Prince, and Assassin
🌊 Lots of nicknames
🏴☠️ They all need so much therapy
🌊 True Enemies to .... more enemies
🏴☠️ Tied Fates
🌊 Yearning but also hatred
🏴☠️ Meddling gods
🌊 Threats as flirting
🏴☠️ Lots of k!nks with lots of folks
This one is dark. Like actually dark. Like child grooming/SA dark (brief memories), so check your TWs. They are adults now, and that trauma obviously suffuses everything about them. These characters are built out of trauma and both Caspian and Rohen are just simmering in volatile emotions almost at all times. The world around them is so cruel and the abuse in their pasts is so heavy, that of course they're all a mess. Their choices actually make sense given what they've survived, which is the thing that keeps unhinged characters from just feeling exhausting. You understand why they're like this even when they're being completely feral. Nobody in this book knows how to regulate a single feeling. Every reaction is dialed to eleven, every decision is dramatic, and honestly, yep makes sense.
And it's just fun to sit in that chaos. These aren't quiet, composed people making measured choices; they're volatile and messy and reactive, and there's something really satisfying about characters who quite obviously need therapy. And they're some of the thirstiest people I've seen. It's a lot, sure, but it fits the over-the-top energy of everything else, so I can't even be mad about it. It's part of the package.
This is dark, dramatic, over the top in every direction, and honestly just delightful because of it. Not a book for anyone wanting subtlety or restraint, but if you want pirates who feel everything way too intensely and never once apologize for it, this delivers.
Add to your TBR if you want a story with:
🏴☠️ Rival Pirates, Prince, and Assassin
🌊 Lots of nicknames
🏴☠️ They all need so much therapy
🌊 True Enemies to .... more enemies
🏴☠️ Tied Fates
🌊 Yearning but also hatred
🏴☠️ Meddling gods
🌊 Threats as flirting
🏴☠️ Lots of k!nks with lots of folks
May 10, 2026
Arc Review
“I will kill you as soon as the opportunity presents itself.” He smirked, his swoon-worthy smile lines making their increasingly annoying appearance. “Is that a promise, little siren?” “It’s a fucking vow.”
“She was intoxicating and just as fiery as I was; I wanted nothing more than for our blazes to join so we could watch the world burn beneath us. She’d become the single most irreplaceable treasure on my ship, for there was a reason I called her my siren: she’d drawn me in with her melodic essence the moment I laid my eyes on her.”
Thank you very much for the author for sending me an early copy of her book! I devoured it, I loved it a LOT!
Oh how much I loved this read is beyond words!
First of all read the TW because it’s dark and if you feel comfortable with them make sure to read it! You are guaranteed an amazing time with the crew!
I have loved everything about this book! It was written brilliantly!
There were tension, meddling gods, prophecy, hunger for power and treasure hunt.
It’s not only a pirate story about a treasure hunt, there is also a prophecy about overturning gods and the whole time reading the book I was on edge.
The multiple POV made this story so complex but to the point of confusion.
The characters were all amazing! It is so hard to choose my favourite one. It is really thanks to the multiple POV that I felt so close to all of them.
The FMC Rohen is the textbook type of my favourite FMC. She was fierce, unyielding and so funny. She also has lots of trauma from her past which made her so strong. She is also an assassin! Amazing character!
The MMC Caspian was everything! Just like our FMC he is dealing with abuse and trauma from his past. He was ruthless, dark, complex and sooooooo desirable. I would be a happy woman just staying on his ship for the rest of my days!
The dynamics between the FMC and MMC was done so very well! They were truly enemies to lovers (perhaps in book 2?🤭)!
They have tried to unalive each other throughout the entire book and I loved it! Their banter and the length of which they were trying to unalive each other were amazingly done!
The characters were not only fierce and ruthless but also so extremely funny! I can see the author has amazing sense of humour and personality because the banter were not forced or too much or cringy at all. It felt natural and was so genius.
Favourite side character? How about all of them?! I honestly can’t choose! Weather it was Caspian’s second in command or his ex best friend who now wants to kill him or the prince who would do anything to escape from his father and live his own life… can not choose between them! It’s impossible!
Thank you again for Asher D. Payne for sending me an early copy! I loved every chapter and eagerly waiting for book2! Can it be out tomorrow? 🖤
“I will kill you as soon as the opportunity presents itself.” He smirked, his swoon-worthy smile lines making their increasingly annoying appearance. “Is that a promise, little siren?” “It’s a fucking vow.”
“She was intoxicating and just as fiery as I was; I wanted nothing more than for our blazes to join so we could watch the world burn beneath us. She’d become the single most irreplaceable treasure on my ship, for there was a reason I called her my siren: she’d drawn me in with her melodic essence the moment I laid my eyes on her.”
Thank you very much for the author for sending me an early copy of her book! I devoured it, I loved it a LOT!
Oh how much I loved this read is beyond words!
First of all read the TW because it’s dark and if you feel comfortable with them make sure to read it! You are guaranteed an amazing time with the crew!
I have loved everything about this book! It was written brilliantly!
There were tension, meddling gods, prophecy, hunger for power and treasure hunt.
It’s not only a pirate story about a treasure hunt, there is also a prophecy about overturning gods and the whole time reading the book I was on edge.
The multiple POV made this story so complex but to the point of confusion.
The characters were all amazing! It is so hard to choose my favourite one. It is really thanks to the multiple POV that I felt so close to all of them.
The FMC Rohen is the textbook type of my favourite FMC. She was fierce, unyielding and so funny. She also has lots of trauma from her past which made her so strong. She is also an assassin! Amazing character!
The MMC Caspian was everything! Just like our FMC he is dealing with abuse and trauma from his past. He was ruthless, dark, complex and sooooooo desirable. I would be a happy woman just staying on his ship for the rest of my days!
The dynamics between the FMC and MMC was done so very well! They were truly enemies to lovers (perhaps in book 2?🤭)!
They have tried to unalive each other throughout the entire book and I loved it! Their banter and the length of which they were trying to unalive each other were amazingly done!
The characters were not only fierce and ruthless but also so extremely funny! I can see the author has amazing sense of humour and personality because the banter were not forced or too much or cringy at all. It felt natural and was so genius.
Favourite side character? How about all of them?! I honestly can’t choose! Weather it was Caspian’s second in command or his ex best friend who now wants to kill him or the prince who would do anything to escape from his father and live his own life… can not choose between them! It’s impossible!
Thank you again for Asher D. Payne for sending me an early copy! I loved every chapter and eagerly waiting for book2! Can it be out tomorrow? 🖤
May 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
ARC REVIEW
I found out about Cast From the Dark by Asher Payne when I was three movies deep into my annual Pirates of the Caribbean rewatch… so naturally I was already fully in my pirate era before even opening this book.
And somehow this book dragged me even deeper into it.
This book was absolutely impossible to put down and I finished it in one night.
First off, Rohen is 👏🏼 that. 👏🏼 bitch. 👏🏼 The first chapter had my jaw on the floor. She’s ruthless, cunning, sassy as hell and such an enjoyable character filled with well-deserved feminine rage.
Caspian is a pirate and holy fuuuuuucccccckkkking hot. (C’mon, the man has a nipple chain 🌶️) He also can’t swim so.. he has that going for him. 🫣
Caspian and Rohen have so much tension that you can cut it with a knife and the story keeps edging you the deeper into the story it goes.
The story also features side characters POV’s to flesh out more story building and character development. (I’m a sucker for anything with multi POV’s) There’s also a solid LGBTQIA+ representation which I always love to see. ❤️
The story does end on a cliffhanger so I’m chomping at the bits waiting for the continuation.
Thanks @author.asherdpayne for the incredible story! And thanks to @crownsandchaos_pr for the ARC! 🖤
ARC REVIEW
I found out about Cast From the Dark by Asher Payne when I was three movies deep into my annual Pirates of the Caribbean rewatch… so naturally I was already fully in my pirate era before even opening this book.
And somehow this book dragged me even deeper into it.
This book was absolutely impossible to put down and I finished it in one night.
First off, Rohen is 👏🏼 that. 👏🏼 bitch. 👏🏼 The first chapter had my jaw on the floor. She’s ruthless, cunning, sassy as hell and such an enjoyable character filled with well-deserved feminine rage.
Caspian is a pirate and holy fuuuuuucccccckkkking hot. (C’mon, the man has a nipple chain 🌶️) He also can’t swim so.. he has that going for him. 🫣
Caspian and Rohen have so much tension that you can cut it with a knife and the story keeps edging you the deeper into the story it goes.
The story also features side characters POV’s to flesh out more story building and character development. (I’m a sucker for anything with multi POV’s) There’s also a solid LGBTQIA+ representation which I always love to see. ❤️
The story does end on a cliffhanger so I’m chomping at the bits waiting for the continuation.
Thanks @author.asherdpayne for the incredible story! And thanks to @crownsandchaos_pr for the ARC! 🖤
May 22, 2026
This was AMAZING. A wonderful debut into the fantasy genre. I could not put it down!
Cast From the Dark was gritty, full of suspenseful adventure and THE CHARACTERS. Not only do you get the two main characters, but you get a whole host of supporting ones that are equally amazing!
Asher created a story so layered and well written that it felt effortless to love it. She gives you a world that is brutal and unfair, and then gives you characters that steal your heart.
Thr world building is unique and full without being over complicated and it truly adds so much to the story. This book felt so immersive!
AND THE CLIFFHANGER. 😭😭 I CANNOT.
If you love pirates, high stakes stories, enemies to lovers, and appreciate some downright amazing feminine rage- this book is for you! I cannot wait to read more!
Cast From the Dark was gritty, full of suspenseful adventure and THE CHARACTERS. Not only do you get the two main characters, but you get a whole host of supporting ones that are equally amazing!
Asher created a story so layered and well written that it felt effortless to love it. She gives you a world that is brutal and unfair, and then gives you characters that steal your heart.
Thr world building is unique and full without being over complicated and it truly adds so much to the story. This book felt so immersive!
AND THE CLIFFHANGER. 😭😭 I CANNOT.
If you love pirates, high stakes stories, enemies to lovers, and appreciate some downright amazing feminine rage- this book is for you! I cannot wait to read more!
May 20, 2026
Its an amazing start to this series.
I liked the writing style. Fluid and the way characters are portrayed, I could literally imagine them in front of me.
I love anything and everything about assassins. FMC Rohan is a deadly assassin trained by the master of assassins himself and she is a vengeance incarnate who lives and breathes rage.
There is political drama involved along with dark magic which is woven intricately and I loved it.
This deep and dark world is vast, alluring and literally pulls you in. All characters have their own space, depth and impact. Gods and their Kids, Shadow and Dark Magic, Royals, Pirates, Assassins and Seers. What more can you ask for?
Unfortunately, this book ends in a Cliffhanger and now forced to wait until the next one comes out.
Thank you Asher for this ARC. Looking forward to the next ones in this series!
I liked the writing style. Fluid and the way characters are portrayed, I could literally imagine them in front of me.
I love anything and everything about assassins. FMC Rohan is a deadly assassin trained by the master of assassins himself and she is a vengeance incarnate who lives and breathes rage.
There is political drama involved along with dark magic which is woven intricately and I loved it.
This deep and dark world is vast, alluring and literally pulls you in. All characters have their own space, depth and impact. Gods and their Kids, Shadow and Dark Magic, Royals, Pirates, Assassins and Seers. What more can you ask for?
Unfortunately, this book ends in a Cliffhanger and now forced to wait until the next one comes out.
Thank you Asher for this ARC. Looking forward to the next ones in this series!
May 21, 2026
I’ve got two words for you: Gay pirates (and princes). I mean, there’s a million other things I could say about Asher D. Payne’s first book in her Marked by the Deep series, Cast From the Dark, because it was just THAT GOOD, but I feel like gay pirates should definitely be one of the main reasons you sprint to your favorite ereader to snag this book for yourself. The action had me finishing this book in less than two days because I absolutely HAD to know what happened next, the character development had me rooting for the MC’s, and the cliffhanger ending had me sprinting to threads to word vomit my unending love for this book so I could wrap my mind around writing this review. I truly wish I could give this book a million stars, but five will have to do!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 8, 2026
4⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
What a great start to this dark fantasy series. Asher is so good at creating deeply complex characters who are flawed and morally grey in the best way possible. I was completely hooked by every single one of them.
Rohan was easily one of my favorite — a fierce assassin FMC who refuses to back down. And Caspian? A morally grey pirate captain. They are somehow bound together, yet true enemies. Definitely not lovers… at least not yet.
The world-building was immersive and detailed, especially the pirate elements that gave the story such a dark and dangerous theme. There were twists I didn’t see coming, along with heartbreaking moments that genuinely shocked me. Somehow Asher always knows exactly how to destroy me emotionally when I least expect it.
From beginning to end, this book takes you on a wild journey and ends with a cliffhanger. I honestly have no idea where this series is headed, but I cannot wait to find out.
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Dark Fantasy
➳❥ Assassin FMC
➳❥ Pirates
➳❥ Morally Grey Characters
➳❥ Enemies to ?
➳❥ Feminine Rage
➳❥ Prophecies
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽t𝓮𝓼
“as if the gods crafted her to be the poison that would ultimately lead to my downfall.”
“Where a deep part of me loathed her beyond understanding and didn't give a damn what happened to any aspect of her life, another wished to gut anyone who came near her.”
“She was addictive in a way I knew would destroy me, but I would be a lying man if I claimed she hadn't become my newest obsession.”
“You have always been everything... And you always will be... To me... To this realm...It... was an honor... loving you..."
"And somehow the men in our world believe women to be too dramatic for leadership."
May 21, 2026
I was pleasantly suprised with this ARC because I do love a good pirate read.
If you love pirates + spice then this the book for you. It does get dark so be warned you're in for a few graphic details but overall the story was good. I flew through the book pretty quick with the multiple POVs and came to love a side character more than the MMC.
Rohen had quite a bit of character development through the story after she learned to stand up for herself but she is pretty badass from the beginning.
Overall the writing flowed well and this book felt like a guilty pleasure you'd enjoy reading late into the night (forgoing your responsibilities) because I know I did.
Be warned it does end in a cliffhanger just when things start to make sense and now I need book 2.
If you love pirates + spice then this the book for you. It does get dark so be warned you're in for a few graphic details but overall the story was good. I flew through the book pretty quick with the multiple POVs and came to love a side character more than the MMC.
Rohen had quite a bit of character development through the story after she learned to stand up for herself but she is pretty badass from the beginning.
Overall the writing flowed well and this book felt like a guilty pleasure you'd enjoy reading late into the night (forgoing your responsibilities) because I know I did.
Be warned it does end in a cliffhanger just when things start to make sense and now I need book 2.
May 20, 2026
Wow! Give me all the dark fantasy with these amazing pirates and a fierce assassin. This multi-pov story follows so many dynamic characters that you fall in love with even as you may be shocked by some of their morally black and grey actions. This is a true enemies to infatuation and I am so prepared for what level of intensity is coming! Asher’s writing is so descriptive and thoughtful and truly poetic. Plus the spice is hot hot hot but still so tasteful in her representation of the LGBTQ+ community. Although my heart has been hurt throughout the book I am also ready for some intense revenge! I really appreciate how unique this story is and the beautiful representation to mental health and trauma.
May 20, 2026
Cast from the dark is a beautiful book. It has point of views from all five of the main characters and showed how they all connected. I was absolutely obsessed with all of it. I loved how we got to see everyone grow and develop together in the story. Asher did a fantastic job making these characters come alive and make me fall in love with each and every one of them! I’m already wanting to read it again! Caspian always had me wanting to learn more about him at every second. I loved having such a strong female presence in Rohen. And all the other characters were finding themselves in different ways that were relatable and had me obsessed from the beginning.
May 7, 2026
This was such a strong start to a dark fantasy series. Rival pirate captains, enemies filled with tension, fallen gods, queer representation, political intrigue, vengeance fueled by feminine rage... it was no surprise I flew through this book.
The world feels massive, giving us an epic fantasy adventure packed with pirates, gods, prophecy, magic, and layered politics. The story is told through multiple POVs in first person, which admittedly I stumbled through at first since it’s been a hot minute for me reading more than a dual POV story. It took me a little time to settle into whose voice was whose, but there were tons of amazing characters to know and a few I desperately wanted more chapters from.
The writing is well paced and easy to consume, which is probably why I finished it so quickly. Overall I loved being swept through this chaotic world from so many different perspectives, it really helped paint a picture of everything happening simultaneously. Alongside all the dark fantasy elements, there’s also a strong found family vibe that I think a lot of readers will appreciate.
I will admit I was slightly disappointed that some of the romances were left simmering instead of developing more in this book *Cough* Rohan and a certain pirate captain *COUGH*, but I also understand that’s part of the draw of a fantasy series. There are multiple romance arcs woven throughout the story, and while I enjoyed them, some of them also emotionally wrecked me a little alongside the cliffhanger which wasn’t playing around.
Definitely recommending this for readers who love gritty dark fantasy stories full of pirates, morally gray characters, vengeance, found family, and high tension relationships.
I received a gifted copy of this book so I may leave my honest review.
The world feels massive, giving us an epic fantasy adventure packed with pirates, gods, prophecy, magic, and layered politics. The story is told through multiple POVs in first person, which admittedly I stumbled through at first since it’s been a hot minute for me reading more than a dual POV story. It took me a little time to settle into whose voice was whose, but there were tons of amazing characters to know and a few I desperately wanted more chapters from.
The writing is well paced and easy to consume, which is probably why I finished it so quickly. Overall I loved being swept through this chaotic world from so many different perspectives, it really helped paint a picture of everything happening simultaneously. Alongside all the dark fantasy elements, there’s also a strong found family vibe that I think a lot of readers will appreciate.
I will admit I was slightly disappointed that some of the romances were left simmering instead of developing more in this book *Cough* Rohan and a certain pirate captain *COUGH*, but I also understand that’s part of the draw of a fantasy series. There are multiple romance arcs woven throughout the story, and while I enjoyed them, some of them also emotionally wrecked me a little alongside the cliffhanger which wasn’t playing around.
Definitely recommending this for readers who love gritty dark fantasy stories full of pirates, morally gray characters, vengeance, found family, and high tension relationships.
I received a gifted copy of this book so I may leave my honest review.
May 16, 2026
Cast from the dark by Asher d Payne review
Cast from the Dark is Asher D. Payne’s debut into dark fantasy, and wow, did it not disappoint. (Definitely check the trigger warnings though!)
I’ve been a fan of Asher’s work for a while, so I was incredibly excited when I found out I’d been accepted onto the ARC team for this book!
This is a dark pirate fantasy packed with fallen gods, corruption, female rage, and TRUE enemies-to-lovers. The multiple POVs really helped build tension and kept me invested the entire time. I also loved that even the side characters felt interesting and memorable.
The pacing worked really well for me, and the atmosphere was so immersive from start to finish.
I highly recommend this one, just be warned, that cliffhanger is brutal.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of this book!
Cast from the Dark is Asher D. Payne’s debut into dark fantasy, and wow, did it not disappoint. (Definitely check the trigger warnings though!)
I’ve been a fan of Asher’s work for a while, so I was incredibly excited when I found out I’d been accepted onto the ARC team for this book!
This is a dark pirate fantasy packed with fallen gods, corruption, female rage, and TRUE enemies-to-lovers. The multiple POVs really helped build tension and kept me invested the entire time. I also loved that even the side characters felt interesting and memorable.
The pacing worked really well for me, and the atmosphere was so immersive from start to finish.
I highly recommend this one, just be warned, that cliffhanger is brutal.
Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of this book!
May 17, 2026
First, thank you to Asher for giving me the opportunity for the ARC to her debut into Dark Fantasy. This was EVERYTHING!!
I am so invested in these characters, the way Asher writes her characters and her worlds you feel as thought you are right there along with them.
Rivaling Pirates, TRUE enemies to lovers, slow burn, meddling Gods, found family, LGBTQ+ rep and delicious spiciness. If you have any triggers be sure to check those before you dive into this good time!!
Our characters are all morally grey and unhinged in the best ways and as I read this I could not wait to come back to pick it up.
The devastation I felt on the last page - CAUSE WHAT DO YOU MEAN ITS DONE….. come back!! Cannot wait for book 2! Definitely one to add to your TBR.. thank me later
I am so invested in these characters, the way Asher writes her characters and her worlds you feel as thought you are right there along with them.
Rivaling Pirates, TRUE enemies to lovers, slow burn, meddling Gods, found family, LGBTQ+ rep and delicious spiciness. If you have any triggers be sure to check those before you dive into this good time!!
Our characters are all morally grey and unhinged in the best ways and as I read this I could not wait to come back to pick it up.
The devastation I felt on the last page - CAUSE WHAT DO YOU MEAN ITS DONE….. come back!! Cannot wait for book 2! Definitely one to add to your TBR.. thank me later
May 18, 2026
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the first book in the Marked by the Deep series.
It is a dark fantasy novel that captivates every reader.
The world building is fantastic and dynamic. The same goes for the plot, where in combination with suspense, secrets, tension and twists they offer the reader everything they look for in books.
The characters are well-written and are very well structured and developed.
Finally, regarding the author's writing, it is captivating, enjoyable, enchanting and rich. I particularly enjoyed it and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
And don't forget! Tomorrow is the official release of the book!
Thank you very much to the author and Crowns and Chaos PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the first book in the Marked by the Deep series.
It is a dark fantasy novel that captivates every reader.
The world building is fantastic and dynamic. The same goes for the plot, where in combination with suspense, secrets, tension and twists they offer the reader everything they look for in books.
The characters are well-written and are very well structured and developed.
Finally, regarding the author's writing, it is captivating, enjoyable, enchanting and rich. I particularly enjoyed it and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
And don't forget! Tomorrow is the official release of the book!
Thank you very much to the author and Crowns and Chaos PR for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a strong start to this dark fantasy romance series! The second this book threw me onto the blood soaked seas with assassins, rival crews, cursed gods, and morally questionable people making catastrophic decisions, I was seated.
The world building was immersive without feeling overwhelming, and the political tension, buried secrets, and lore kept unraveling like a cursed treasure map drenched in seawater and bad choices. Every time I thought I had a handle on where things were going, another twist rolled in like a storm wave to the face.
Rohen was easily one of my favorite parts of the story. She’s dangerous and carrying enough trauma to sink a ship, but still manages to feel layered and human beneath all the bloodshed.
Caspian meanwhile is an absolute disaster captain in the very best way possible. Their relationship is messy, hostile, emotionally charged, and had me constantly wondering if they were going to kiss or end each other. Sometimes both felt equally possible.
I also really appreciated that the side characters felt fleshed out instead of existing purely as background decoration. Everyone seemed to have their own motives, secrets, and scars, which made the world feel alive.
Definitely check trigger warnings going in because this is a dark fantasy and trauma is heavily present throughout the story.
That cliffhanger shoved me directly overboard and now I’ll be waiting impatiently for book two with the rest of the feral sea creatures.
The world building was immersive without feeling overwhelming, and the political tension, buried secrets, and lore kept unraveling like a cursed treasure map drenched in seawater and bad choices. Every time I thought I had a handle on where things were going, another twist rolled in like a storm wave to the face.
Rohen was easily one of my favorite parts of the story. She’s dangerous and carrying enough trauma to sink a ship, but still manages to feel layered and human beneath all the bloodshed.
Caspian meanwhile is an absolute disaster captain in the very best way possible. Their relationship is messy, hostile, emotionally charged, and had me constantly wondering if they were going to kiss or end each other. Sometimes both felt equally possible.
I also really appreciated that the side characters felt fleshed out instead of existing purely as background decoration. Everyone seemed to have their own motives, secrets, and scars, which made the world feel alive.
Definitely check trigger warnings going in because this is a dark fantasy and trauma is heavily present throughout the story.
That cliffhanger shoved me directly overboard and now I’ll be waiting impatiently for book two with the rest of the feral sea creatures.
May 19, 2026
Thank you Asher D Payne for the ARC of Cast From the Dark.
This is a Dark fantasy with Pirates and lots of Trauma and trigger warnings (please check before you read)
It captures you from the start and you don't want to put it down. It is a true enemies to lovers slow burn.
Fans of Pirate fantasy and dark fantasy, it definitely needs reading and Asher D Payne is definitely an author to keep an eye on.
Cast of the Dark, is out now go check it out!
This is a Dark fantasy with Pirates and lots of Trauma and trigger warnings (please check before you read)
It captures you from the start and you don't want to put it down. It is a true enemies to lovers slow burn.
Fans of Pirate fantasy and dark fantasy, it definitely needs reading and Asher D Payne is definitely an author to keep an eye on.
Cast of the Dark, is out now go check it out!
May 15, 2026
What an amazing story! This is a true enemies to lovers, DARK (I mean it) pirate romantic fantasy with fallen gods and prophecies, corruption, and all the female rage plus LGBTQ+ rep (MM readers, you’ll LOVEEE THIS).
Basically every character in this book is morally gray and completely unhinged and I love it. You get multiple POVs through the whole story which really keeps the pacing moving along quite nicely. I was hooked by the prologue and didn’t want to put this one down. I also ugly sobbed on an airplane (IYKYK). And there is an absolutely diabolical cliffhanger.
I highly recommend! Thank you to Asher D. Payne and IRIS Influencer Society for the gifted ARC!
Basically every character in this book is morally gray and completely unhinged and I love it. You get multiple POVs through the whole story which really keeps the pacing moving along quite nicely. I was hooked by the prologue and didn’t want to put this one down. I also ugly sobbed on an airplane (IYKYK). And there is an absolutely diabolical cliffhanger.
I highly recommend! Thank you to Asher D. Payne and IRIS Influencer Society for the gifted ARC!
May 17, 2026
This one had me hooked quickly! Morally grey characters, fated…. Enemies?! (in book 1 at least), immersive world building, and lines like this:
“Oh, my little siren, you could try to swim the waters responsible for the death of many sailors, but it wouldn’t stop me from exploring every inch of them to ensure you remained by my side.”
Very much looking forward to the next book in this series!!!
“Oh, my little siren, you could try to swim the waters responsible for the death of many sailors, but it wouldn’t stop me from exploring every inch of them to ensure you remained by my side.”
Very much looking forward to the next book in this series!!!
May 9, 2026
Thank you Asher for the ARC of your book!
I’ve been wanting a good spicy pirate 🏴☠️ story ever since watching Black Sails on Netflix, and Cast from the Dark delivers.
Rohen is bought by Caspian Vayne, a ruthless pirate for the use of his crew members. She wakes up on his ship, forced to save him. Then a dark and stormy night she’s able to escape to Alistairs ( Caspian’s ex best friend) ship; not before slaughtering 1/2 of Caspian’s crew.
This book has everything you want in a story about pirates, rival crews, battles, there’s feminine rage, there’s spicy 🌶️ scenes. The prologue had me HOOKED. One of the first scenes we see Rohen in, the gasp I gasped I was like “Dang girl!”
Caspian Vayne is so sexy you’ll want to jump his bones. If you love any of those things, grab this book when it comes out on May 19th
I’ve been wanting a good spicy pirate 🏴☠️ story ever since watching Black Sails on Netflix, and Cast from the Dark delivers.
Rohen is bought by Caspian Vayne, a ruthless pirate for the use of his crew members. She wakes up on his ship, forced to save him. Then a dark and stormy night she’s able to escape to Alistairs ( Caspian’s ex best friend) ship; not before slaughtering 1/2 of Caspian’s crew.
This book has everything you want in a story about pirates, rival crews, battles, there’s feminine rage, there’s spicy 🌶️ scenes. The prologue had me HOOKED. One of the first scenes we see Rohen in, the gasp I gasped I was like “Dang girl!”
Caspian Vayne is so sexy you’ll want to jump his bones. If you love any of those things, grab this book when it comes out on May 19th
May 9, 2026
I am so lucky to have gotten a chance to read this arc! I greatly enjoyed this book. Chapter one alone starts off with having me at a loss for words. That exalted quickly and I am here for it. This is a dark fantasy so please be sure to check the trigger warnings. There are pirates, false gods, secrets that are revealed as the plot goes along and twists I didn’t see coming. The characters have depth and are complex. Even side characters are likable and not just there to fill a spot. I would definitely recommend this book and I can’t wait to see where this series goes from here.
May 6, 2026
First off, this book does come with some trigger warnings, so you should be prepared.
This book has pirates, mystery & intrigue and a ton of trauma.
The world building was phenomenal, our FMC, Rohen, is a force to reckon with and our MMC, Caspian is very complex. If you like an enemies to lovers trope that is steamy and action packed, this book is for you.
That cliff hanger though! 😲😲😲
Thank you to Asher D Payne for allowing me to read this eArc in exchange for my honest opinion
This book has pirates, mystery & intrigue and a ton of trauma.
The world building was phenomenal, our FMC, Rohen, is a force to reckon with and our MMC, Caspian is very complex. If you like an enemies to lovers trope that is steamy and action packed, this book is for you.
That cliff hanger though! 😲😲😲
Thank you to Asher D Payne for allowing me to read this eArc in exchange for my honest opinion
April 30, 2026
If you love a world of pirates, false and meddling gods, prophecies, world building, morally grey characters, mysteries to solve, sweet tender moments wrecked by heartache, and a heck of a cliff hanger then this needs to be added to your tbr.
Though check your triggers this is a dark fantasy and the characters various traumas are mentioned frequently. Both talking about it and flash backs.
This book takes you on a journey and it all really comes together nicely at the end aside from the mean cliffhanger the author has left us with.
Caspian and Rohen have quite the tumultuous relationship in this book. It’s an enemies to something storyline that kept me guessing to the point where I was questioning if they’d start to turn it around in this book. Wondering if they do? Then check it out for yourself.
This is an arc review. All opinions are my own.
Though check your triggers this is a dark fantasy and the characters various traumas are mentioned frequently. Both talking about it and flash backs.
This book takes you on a journey and it all really comes together nicely at the end aside from the mean cliffhanger the author has left us with.
Caspian and Rohen have quite the tumultuous relationship in this book. It’s an enemies to something storyline that kept me guessing to the point where I was questioning if they’d start to turn it around in this book. Wondering if they do? Then check it out for yourself.
This is an arc review. All opinions are my own.
May 30, 2026
Dark fantasy + dangerous magic + morally gray characters + tension everywhere?? Cast from the Dark by Asher D. Payne had me completely locked in. The atmosphere felt dark, gritty, and immersive in the best way, while the mystery and danger kept me constantly needing to know what was going to happen next. I loved how intense everything felt the power struggles, the emotional tension, the secrets, the feeling that nobody could fully be trusted. The characters felt flawed and complicated, which made the stakes hit even harder. This is definitely one of those fantasy reads that slowly pulls you deeper into the chaos until you’re fully obsessed. If you love darker fantasy with magic, morally gray characters, emotional angst, dangerous choices, and an addictive atmosphere… this one deserves a spot on your TBR.
Español: Dark fantasy + magia peligrosa + personajes moralmente grises + tensión por todas partes? Cast from the Dark de Asher D. Payne me tuvo completamente atrapada. La atmósfera se siente oscura, intensa e inmersiva de la mejor manera, mientras que el misterio y el peligro hacen imposible dejar de leer.
Me encantó lo intenso que se siente todo las luchas de poder, la tensión emocional, los secretos y esa sensación constante de que nadie puede confiarse por completo. Los personajes se sienten imperfectos y complejos, lo que hace que todo tenga aún más impacto emocional. Definitivamente es una de esas fantasías que poco a poco te arrastran al caos hasta dejarte obsesionada.
Si amas las fantasías oscuras con magia, personajes moralmente grises, angst emocional, decisiones peligrosas y una atmósfera adictiva… este libro merece un lugar en tu TBR.
May 25, 2026
Asher D. Payne, you are a freaking genius!
This book was a whirlwind in the best way possible. First, make sure to read the trigger warnings. This book is DARK, and the way Asher marketed it shows that. The themes explored surround broken characters, but Asher does it in such an eloquent way, that felt so healing to me as someone who struggles with mental health.
Rohen is the definition of feminine rage, and was written absolutely perfectly. Her wrath can be felt on the pages, and I cannot wait to see more of it in book two.
Caspian… oh, how I loved to hate this man. He’s so frustrating, but there’s something deeper there. Just like the seas, his personality is deep and layered.
Alastair. Ugh. What I would do to have a man like him! I’m hoping we get more of him and Leilani in book two.
Kael… The sweet baby 😭 My heart aches for him, but I am not surprised considering how Payne writes. She crafts her worlds with emotional damage, but it is also so healing.
All I can say is, if you’re a dark fantasy fan, pick this up. Asher has yet again proved that she can write anything.
This book was a whirlwind in the best way possible. First, make sure to read the trigger warnings. This book is DARK, and the way Asher marketed it shows that. The themes explored surround broken characters, but Asher does it in such an eloquent way, that felt so healing to me as someone who struggles with mental health.
Rohen is the definition of feminine rage, and was written absolutely perfectly. Her wrath can be felt on the pages, and I cannot wait to see more of it in book two.
Caspian… oh, how I loved to hate this man. He’s so frustrating, but there’s something deeper there. Just like the seas, his personality is deep and layered.
Alastair. Ugh. What I would do to have a man like him! I’m hoping we get more of him and Leilani in book two.
Kael… The sweet baby 😭 My heart aches for him, but I am not surprised considering how Payne writes. She crafts her worlds with emotional damage, but it is also so healing.
All I can say is, if you’re a dark fantasy fan, pick this up. Asher has yet again proved that she can write anything.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews