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Reviled
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2026
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June 18, 2026I received a copy of this book via NetGalley (thank you, BookBuzz). All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 26, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up to 4⭐️ here.
This story had me completely hooked for about 70% of the book. But then the story structure and the arrival of several new characters (while we lose sight of most of the initial side characters) brought a turn in the plot line and the characters dynamics and I felt disconnected, hence the 3.5 ⭐️.
For the 70% I enjoyed, it was fast-paced, well-written, witty and suspenseful- I loved it! I rooted so fast for the FMC! I liked that the characters were quite unpredictable and I loved their dynamics.
This story had me completely hooked for about 70% of the book. But then the story structure and the arrival of several new characters (while we lose sight of most of the initial side characters) brought a turn in the plot line and the characters dynamics and I felt disconnected, hence the 3.5 ⭐️.
For the 70% I enjoyed, it was fast-paced, well-written, witty and suspenseful- I loved it! I rooted so fast for the FMC! I liked that the characters were quite unpredictable and I loved their dynamics.
July 1, 2026
Reviled by JP Taylor is one of my fave reads this year!
In a world of forbidden magic and imaginative monsters, Cali wants to reunite with her sister, who was snatched away as a child for being able to weave the threads.
When she finally gets to embark on the journey, she faces monsters, danger, and people who want nothing more than to see her burn.
An amazing, incredibly well written, grim fantasy that I couldn't put down - all the stars for this bad boy!
In a world of forbidden magic and imaginative monsters, Cali wants to reunite with her sister, who was snatched away as a child for being able to weave the threads.
When she finally gets to embark on the journey, she faces monsters, danger, and people who want nothing more than to see her burn.
An amazing, incredibly well written, grim fantasy that I couldn't put down - all the stars for this bad boy!
June 24, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Bookbuzz.net and the author for an advanced copy of this book. (4/5 stars) I thought the premise of this book was brilliant and the author does a great job in world building without info dumping and making the characters flawed but likeable. I would say this book spoke more to me as a high fantasy than a romantasy book, as the romance felt secondary at times to the plot. However this didn’t take away from the enjoyment. Would recommend giving this book a go!
July 5, 2026
A dark fantasy adventure with a fierce female protagonist.
The character growth is perfectly woven into the story.
This story is a must read for fans of the Fourth Wing, it’s in the same genre!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The character growth is perfectly woven into the story.
This story is a must read for fans of the Fourth Wing, it’s in the same genre!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 22, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and BookBuzz.net for a chance to read and review this book.
This is one those books that feel like you jump on a fast train that does not stop until the end.
I could not put it down (read it over a weekend). There is always something going on, no slow parts at all. But do not think that there is only action. We have a great focus on the relationships between the characters. Everything just clicks together.
Personally, I like this kind of storytelling where you are thrown inside and learn how the world works on the move (no boring info dumping). The author still manages to make the story cohesive and not confusing at all. This is one POV first person narration. Lately, I learned that not everyone can work with this type of narration (even though it might sound as the easiest one). Seeing and feeling everything just through one person's POV can be tricky but here it was done brilliantly.
I do not want to reveal any spoilers, but I love Cali (the FMC). Her life was very difficult, but she still managed to hold on to her worth. She was not satisfied with "getting the leftovers" because she knew she deserves more. Apart from her tenacity she also endeared herself to me by using humour and irony as a coping mechanism. This is something a lot of authors does, and some people can see it as obnoxious, but I think it suited the character very well.
The broader theme throughout the book is the human tendency to shun others because that is how it is done. Someone said that this is bad or banned and we need to comply, because they have the power. This belief when taught to people form a very young age is very hard to overcome. But as in life, there are characters who can shake off their prejudices and beliefs and there are some that don't. So as much as this is an action-packed book, it also gives you something to think about.
Honestly, this book can easily compare with the more popular series on the market. It deserves a read!
This is one those books that feel like you jump on a fast train that does not stop until the end.
I could not put it down (read it over a weekend). There is always something going on, no slow parts at all. But do not think that there is only action. We have a great focus on the relationships between the characters. Everything just clicks together.
Personally, I like this kind of storytelling where you are thrown inside and learn how the world works on the move (no boring info dumping). The author still manages to make the story cohesive and not confusing at all. This is one POV first person narration. Lately, I learned that not everyone can work with this type of narration (even though it might sound as the easiest one). Seeing and feeling everything just through one person's POV can be tricky but here it was done brilliantly.
I do not want to reveal any spoilers, but I love Cali (the FMC). Her life was very difficult, but she still managed to hold on to her worth. She was not satisfied with "getting the leftovers" because she knew she deserves more. Apart from her tenacity she also endeared herself to me by using humour and irony as a coping mechanism. This is something a lot of authors does, and some people can see it as obnoxious, but I think it suited the character very well.
The broader theme throughout the book is the human tendency to shun others because that is how it is done. Someone said that this is bad or banned and we need to comply, because they have the power. This belief when taught to people form a very young age is very hard to overcome. But as in life, there are characters who can shake off their prejudices and beliefs and there are some that don't. So as much as this is an action-packed book, it also gives you something to think about.
Honestly, this book can easily compare with the more popular series on the market. It deserves a read!
June 29, 2026
Reviled ended up being one of those books that completely pulled me in the farther I read. The first few chapters took me a little time to settle into, but once the story found its footing, I couldn’t put it down. Every chapter made me want to know what would happen next, and the ending delivered a twist I genuinely didn’t see coming. That cliffhanger immediately had me wanting the next book, and I’ll definitely be picking up a copy when it’s released.
I really enjoyed the romance, although I would classify this as a fantasy with romance rather than a romantasy. There are some enemies-to-lovers elements, but that transition happens much faster than I expected, so it never quite develops into a true slow burn. I would have loved a little more buildup between the characters before everything clicked into place. The romance stays fairly mild, with just a few intimate moments, and I appreciated the contrast between the love interests and was happy with how that aspect of the story played out.
The reason this landed at four stars instead of five comes down to the writing itself. The story is engaging, the plot kept surprising me, and the pacing had me eager to keep reading, but the prose isn’t as polished or immersive as some of my all-time favorite fantasy reads. Even so, the strength of the story more than makes up for it. If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced fantasy with a compelling mystery, a touch of romance, and an ending that leaves you desperate for the sequel, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Thank you to J.P. Taylor and BookSirens for providing me with an advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed the romance, although I would classify this as a fantasy with romance rather than a romantasy. There are some enemies-to-lovers elements, but that transition happens much faster than I expected, so it never quite develops into a true slow burn. I would have loved a little more buildup between the characters before everything clicked into place. The romance stays fairly mild, with just a few intimate moments, and I appreciated the contrast between the love interests and was happy with how that aspect of the story played out.
The reason this landed at four stars instead of five comes down to the writing itself. The story is engaging, the plot kept surprising me, and the pacing had me eager to keep reading, but the prose isn’t as polished or immersive as some of my all-time favorite fantasy reads. Even so, the strength of the story more than makes up for it. If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced fantasy with a compelling mystery, a touch of romance, and an ending that leaves you desperate for the sequel, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Thank you to J.P. Taylor and BookSirens for providing me with an advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 26, 2026
Reviled 4.5 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley & BookBuzz.net for my ARC.
I love a Fem Rage/Warrior book
Soon as I saw the cover & read the blurb I knew I was going to enjoy this book. Cali is now one of my fave FMC.
This is told by Cali POV, which I liked.
She’s a strong fierce FMC that takes no BS. After the cave scene with the spiders I loved Cali.
After Calis sister Harna was taken by Revilers when Cali was only 6 they called her sister a Heretic - magic here is a sin.
15yrs later now marked by a scar on her face by the Revilers so everyone knows. she has to live in the shadows for safety.
But when she’s forced on the road with the very warriors who rather see her dead.. she may have hope to find her sister ..
But hope is dangerous in a kingdom ruled by holy law.
This was a slow steady burn and you’re immersed into the story and learning about the magic and rules as we go along which I loved.
“Sometimes it feels like the anger is all that holds me together, all that keeps me from fraying at the edges like an old coat battered by a winter storm”
I highly recommend. Dark, fierce and emotionally charged, Reviled is a story of rage, survival, forbidden magic, found family and a slow-burn romance forged in mistrust, blood and impossible choices.
I would love to read more by this author!
Out July 1st 2026
#reviled #netgalley #jptaylor
Thank you to NetGalley & BookBuzz.net for my ARC.
I love a Fem Rage/Warrior book
Soon as I saw the cover & read the blurb I knew I was going to enjoy this book. Cali is now one of my fave FMC.
This is told by Cali POV, which I liked.
She’s a strong fierce FMC that takes no BS. After the cave scene with the spiders I loved Cali.
After Calis sister Harna was taken by Revilers when Cali was only 6 they called her sister a Heretic - magic here is a sin.
15yrs later now marked by a scar on her face by the Revilers so everyone knows. she has to live in the shadows for safety.
But when she’s forced on the road with the very warriors who rather see her dead.. she may have hope to find her sister ..
But hope is dangerous in a kingdom ruled by holy law.
This was a slow steady burn and you’re immersed into the story and learning about the magic and rules as we go along which I loved.
“Sometimes it feels like the anger is all that holds me together, all that keeps me from fraying at the edges like an old coat battered by a winter storm”
I highly recommend. Dark, fierce and emotionally charged, Reviled is a story of rage, survival, forbidden magic, found family and a slow-burn romance forged in mistrust, blood and impossible choices.
I would love to read more by this author!
Out July 1st 2026
#reviled #netgalley #jptaylor
June 30, 2026
I was privileged enough to receive an ARC copy of this, and I hit the jackpot. Highly recommend to any Grimdark/Fantasy fans. Fasted past from the very beginning & a very cool magic system with an overwhelming need for revenge 💪🏼. Cali might be the baddest bitch of them all 🔥. Can I have the next one now please?
July 9, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC - it is published now so go grab a copy!!
I ate this up!!! The romance aspect of this was a little bit of a wild turn that felt rushed & forced BUT the magic, the world building, the creatures & the events of the story kept me locked in. I am so excited to see where book 2 goes & how Cali & Rooks story unfolds.
I ate this up!!! The romance aspect of this was a little bit of a wild turn that felt rushed & forced BUT the magic, the world building, the creatures & the events of the story kept me locked in. I am so excited to see where book 2 goes & how Cali & Rooks story unfolds.
June 19, 2026
Thank you Netgalley and BookBuzz for an advanced copy! Top read of 2026. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reviled by J.P. Taylor has me gobsmacked. I’d give it six stars - yes, I said it - if it weren’t for the things that happen 🤫 that I cannot speak of without spoilers! Absolutely brilliant and could not put it down. Call me a mere mortal but one of my favorite parts about this book was not knowing what was going to happen next and eating it up.
The unlikable characters were unlikable for the best reasons. Except for the baddy boss (no spoilers). He’s a coward. Cali was likable for all of the right reasons. One of my favorite kinds of books are those that make you feel what characters feel rather than being told what to feel. The imagery, prose, and warps alone made me want more.
This review doesn’t do it justice, for me. Being in my feminine rage era, I needed the escape.
The unlikable characters were unlikable for the best reasons. Except for the baddy boss (no spoilers). He’s a coward. Cali was likable for all of the right reasons. One of my favorite kinds of books are those that make you feel what characters feel rather than being told what to feel. The imagery, prose, and warps alone made me want more.
This review doesn’t do it justice, for me. Being in my feminine rage era, I needed the escape.
July 2, 2026
{Fantasy with Romance; clean; M/F; single POV}
Cali starts as the unmagical child whose sister was taken by the Guardians (Gods), but the soldiers marked her as unclean by association. Citizens were free to pummel her to death or tear her clothes off, and she survived off of garbage-pail bread. Cali had two friends. Her best friend Devin and one-night-stand, and her mentor, Vinias, who taught her how to protect herself with a sword and fists. Honestly, Vinias is the hero here. At 62-years-old, he was still agile, treated her as his daughter, and sacrificed everything for her.
The world is outstanding. Dragons are having a moment, and here the dragons had decimated the cities, leaving humans stuck with a few Gods that supposedly saved them to live in feudal villages with little resources.
The land of Gods is designed to make you have the creeps or nightmares. Spiders the size of draft horses. Flying ticks. This is not a light and fluffy book.
I have to admit, I don’t like Cali’s personality. She’s unlikeable, and her aquaintances keep telling her to grow up and learn how to inhibit her passion. But she becomes a superwoman later, which seems tragically unfair to me. I want the nicest people to win. “*You’re angry, you’re a fucking idiot and you don’t engage your brain before you act, but you’re not evil.” *Sufiya*
The romance is a clean, young-adult version amidst all the action. The action really is the star in the novel.
"I say this with nothing but love in my heart,” he says slowly, his eyes searching my face as if looking for something he can’t find, “but you are, without a doubt, absolutely fucking insane.
*Devin, her bff and potential partner *
If you can overlook the unlikeable girl who doesn’t learn how to tame her anger, the story ratchets up to an exciting climax. Just be prepared to lay your disbelief at the door.
Cali starts as the unmagical child whose sister was taken by the Guardians (Gods), but the soldiers marked her as unclean by association. Citizens were free to pummel her to death or tear her clothes off, and she survived off of garbage-pail bread. Cali had two friends. Her best friend Devin and one-night-stand, and her mentor, Vinias, who taught her how to protect herself with a sword and fists. Honestly, Vinias is the hero here. At 62-years-old, he was still agile, treated her as his daughter, and sacrificed everything for her.
The world is outstanding. Dragons are having a moment, and here the dragons had decimated the cities, leaving humans stuck with a few Gods that supposedly saved them to live in feudal villages with little resources.
The land of Gods is designed to make you have the creeps or nightmares. Spiders the size of draft horses. Flying ticks. This is not a light and fluffy book.
I have to admit, I don’t like Cali’s personality. She’s unlikeable, and her aquaintances keep telling her to grow up and learn how to inhibit her passion. But she becomes a superwoman later, which seems tragically unfair to me. I want the nicest people to win. “*You’re angry, you’re a fucking idiot and you don’t engage your brain before you act, but you’re not evil.” *Sufiya*
The romance is a clean, young-adult version amidst all the action. The action really is the star in the novel.
"I say this with nothing but love in my heart,” he says slowly, his eyes searching my face as if looking for something he can’t find, “but you are, without a doubt, absolutely fucking insane.
*Devin, her bff and potential partner *
If you can overlook the unlikeable girl who doesn’t learn how to tame her anger, the story ratchets up to an exciting climax. Just be prepared to lay your disbelief at the door.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and BookBuzz.net for a chance to read and review this book.
The moment I read the synopsis for Reviled, I knew it was a book I wanted to pick up. A fantasy centered around a girl who's spent her life fighting to survive and searching for her sister, mixed with forbidden magic and dangerous secrets, sounded right up my alley—and it ended up being such an enjoyable read.
I didn't expect to get so attached to these characters, but by the end I was completely invested in Cali's journey. Cali was the kind of FMC I couldn't help but root for. She gets knocked down over and over again, but she never loses hope. She lets her anger fuel her and keeps moving forward.
Vinias and Cali. Their father-daughter relationship was one of my favorite parts of the entire book. He wasn't her father by blood, but the love, guidance, and protection he gave Cali made every scene they shared feel special.
And then there's Rook... certified cinnamon roll. 🥹 He was kind, patient, fiercely loyal, and always in Cali's corner. I actually loved that the romance stayed in the background while Cali's journey took center stage. That said, I do wish their relationship had a little more time to develop because it felt like it went from strangers to love a little too quickly.
The Weave was a really interesting magic system, and I loved watching the mystery unfold as Cali journeyed through the Weft to find her sister and uncover the truth about the Revilers, the Guardians, and the world she'd grown up believing in. Between the forbidden magic, found-family moments, and constant twists, I was always eager to see what would happen next.
And the ending show down between the Guardian and Cali? My heart absolutely melted because of the kids. ❤️
Overall, Reviled was a refreshing fantasy with a resilient heroine, a lovable cast, and a story that kept me turning the pages. I'll definitely be picking up the sequel to see where their journey goes next.
The moment I read the synopsis for Reviled, I knew it was a book I wanted to pick up. A fantasy centered around a girl who's spent her life fighting to survive and searching for her sister, mixed with forbidden magic and dangerous secrets, sounded right up my alley—and it ended up being such an enjoyable read.
I didn't expect to get so attached to these characters, but by the end I was completely invested in Cali's journey. Cali was the kind of FMC I couldn't help but root for. She gets knocked down over and over again, but she never loses hope. She lets her anger fuel her and keeps moving forward.
Vinias and Cali. Their father-daughter relationship was one of my favorite parts of the entire book. He wasn't her father by blood, but the love, guidance, and protection he gave Cali made every scene they shared feel special.
And then there's Rook... certified cinnamon roll. 🥹 He was kind, patient, fiercely loyal, and always in Cali's corner. I actually loved that the romance stayed in the background while Cali's journey took center stage. That said, I do wish their relationship had a little more time to develop because it felt like it went from strangers to love a little too quickly.
The Weave was a really interesting magic system, and I loved watching the mystery unfold as Cali journeyed through the Weft to find her sister and uncover the truth about the Revilers, the Guardians, and the world she'd grown up believing in. Between the forbidden magic, found-family moments, and constant twists, I was always eager to see what would happen next.
And the ending show down between the Guardian and Cali? My heart absolutely melted because of the kids. ❤️
Overall, Reviled was a refreshing fantasy with a resilient heroine, a lovable cast, and a story that kept me turning the pages. I'll definitely be picking up the sequel to see where their journey goes next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What to expect in this book:
💪🏼 a bad ass, outcast heroine
🧙🏻❌ a magical world where magical is forbidden
⚔️ lots of fighting
💕 a little bit of romance
First, let me say that the cover is STUNNING!
Reviled is the story of Cali, who is marked for life as an outcast when her sister is taken from her and her family slaughtered for showing magical abilities.
We follow as an adult, trying to survive a cruel and unforgiving world. She is a strong, resilient character, which I loved. She knows how to stand up for herself, while being incredibly loyal to those she cares about.
Cali ends up being dragged into something bigger than her and we follow her in this dangerous journey. The story is well written, the plot well though. If you love fantasy, you might love this one. I, however, am more of a romance person and I think the book lacks in this department. The romance between Cali and her lover (no spoiler on the name) is too surface level to be called a romantasy. If that is what you are looking for, you might be a bit disappointed.
The story is fast paced, with lots of obstacles along the way. Those who love quests and uncertainty will most likely love it!
If your are looking for a fantasy with angst, plot twists, a corrupted system and bad ass heroine: go for it. Careful, the happy ending is not guaranteed 😉
💪🏼 a bad ass, outcast heroine
🧙🏻❌ a magical world where magical is forbidden
⚔️ lots of fighting
💕 a little bit of romance
First, let me say that the cover is STUNNING!
Reviled is the story of Cali, who is marked for life as an outcast when her sister is taken from her and her family slaughtered for showing magical abilities.
We follow as an adult, trying to survive a cruel and unforgiving world. She is a strong, resilient character, which I loved. She knows how to stand up for herself, while being incredibly loyal to those she cares about.
Cali ends up being dragged into something bigger than her and we follow her in this dangerous journey. The story is well written, the plot well though. If you love fantasy, you might love this one. I, however, am more of a romance person and I think the book lacks in this department. The romance between Cali and her lover (no spoiler on the name) is too surface level to be called a romantasy. If that is what you are looking for, you might be a bit disappointed.
The story is fast paced, with lots of obstacles along the way. Those who love quests and uncertainty will most likely love it!
If your are looking for a fantasy with angst, plot twists, a corrupted system and bad ass heroine: go for it. Careful, the happy ending is not guaranteed 😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to J.P. Taylor for providing me with an ARC of Reviled in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved this book. From the start, I was drawn into the story and found it difficult to put down. One of Reviled’s greatest strengths is its unique magic system, which felt fresh, imaginative, and unlike anything I’ve read recently. The way it was integrated into the world and plot made each new revelation exciting.
The characters were another standout. They were compelling and well-developed, and I enjoyed following their journeys. Their interactions added depth to the story and kept me invested throughout.
The world-building was immersive, the pacing kept me engaged, and there was always enough mystery to keep the pages turning. By the end, I was eager to see where the story goes next.
If you’re a fantasy reader looking for a fresh magic system, engaging characters, and a story that leaves you excited for the next book, Reviled is well worth picking up. I can’t wait to continue this journey and see what comes next for the world that’s only just begun to be uncovered.
I absolutely loved this book. From the start, I was drawn into the story and found it difficult to put down. One of Reviled’s greatest strengths is its unique magic system, which felt fresh, imaginative, and unlike anything I’ve read recently. The way it was integrated into the world and plot made each new revelation exciting.
The characters were another standout. They were compelling and well-developed, and I enjoyed following their journeys. Their interactions added depth to the story and kept me invested throughout.
The world-building was immersive, the pacing kept me engaged, and there was always enough mystery to keep the pages turning. By the end, I was eager to see where the story goes next.
If you’re a fantasy reader looking for a fresh magic system, engaging characters, and a story that leaves you excited for the next book, Reviled is well worth picking up. I can’t wait to continue this journey and see what comes next for the world that’s only just begun to be uncovered.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I just finished Reviled, and all I can say is wow. This book completely pulled me in from the very first page and never let go. I'm usually pretty stingy with my ratings, so the score I gave this book should tell you just how much I enjoyed it.
The characters were one of the strongest parts of the story for me. I loved Cali, Vinias, Rook, and even Fenara. They felt distinct, memorable, and easy to become invested in as the story unfolded.
The pacing was excellent throughout. The storyline flowed seamlessly, the world-building was immersive without feeling overwhelming, and the action kept me engaged from beginning to end. There really weren't any slow moments, and I found myself constantly wanting to know what would happen next.
My only minor complaint was that I noticed a few typos. Normally that doesn't bother me much, but for some reason they stood out to me in this book.
Overall, Reviled was an incredible read that exceeded my expectations. I'm already disappointed that I have to wait for the next book, but at the same time I'm incredibly excited to see where the story goes next. I will definitely be picking up book two the moment it's released.
The characters were one of the strongest parts of the story for me. I loved Cali, Vinias, Rook, and even Fenara. They felt distinct, memorable, and easy to become invested in as the story unfolded.
The pacing was excellent throughout. The storyline flowed seamlessly, the world-building was immersive without feeling overwhelming, and the action kept me engaged from beginning to end. There really weren't any slow moments, and I found myself constantly wanting to know what would happen next.
My only minor complaint was that I noticed a few typos. Normally that doesn't bother me much, but for some reason they stood out to me in this book.
Overall, Reviled was an incredible read that exceeded my expectations. I'm already disappointed that I have to wait for the next book, but at the same time I'm incredibly excited to see where the story goes next. I will definitely be picking up book two the moment it's released.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I deeply enjoyed Reviled. The story was compelling, layered, and well paced. The characters, particularly Cali, were relatable and engaging. The world building was intriguing and well drawn. I really wanted to know what was going to happen - both from a character point of view and from the bigger story. It drew me in in a way I haven’t experienced with a fantasy novel in a long while. And it did not disappoint (except now I have to wait for the next book!)
The thing that really made it shine for me was the quality of the writing. The prose is superbly crafted - written from Cali’s point of view, and that is what we get; her thoughts, emotions, descriptions. Her journey, her focus. It’s really delicious to read - not overwritten like a lot of fantasy, poetic in its spareness, and with believable, laugh-out-loud at times, dialogue. It’s still rare to get a fantasy novel from a believable female gaze. But maybe that’s two things? Just read it, you’ll see what I mean and you won’t regret it, I promise.
I received an advanced readers copy of Reviled.
The thing that really made it shine for me was the quality of the writing. The prose is superbly crafted - written from Cali’s point of view, and that is what we get; her thoughts, emotions, descriptions. Her journey, her focus. It’s really delicious to read - not overwritten like a lot of fantasy, poetic in its spareness, and with believable, laugh-out-loud at times, dialogue. It’s still rare to get a fantasy novel from a believable female gaze. But maybe that’s two things? Just read it, you’ll see what I mean and you won’t regret it, I promise.
I received an advanced readers copy of Reviled.
July 9, 2026
DNF 85% I was so bored... Skimmed a lot.
I tried, honestly I tried.... I just couldn't bring myself to care anymore.
Callie, Callie.... Nope! didn't like her, didn't connect at all. How easy it would have been to write sympathy into her character? A word here, a word there, we would all have been holding our Kleenex bawling.... Could have made it easier to root for her, that's what books like these need.
Couldn't care any less what her sword fighting skill is. Her characterisation is so patchy, like she can't control her emotions... Except for that scar what does Callie even look like???
One of my pet hates is heroines that think anger makes them "different". If Callie was only a fire element perhaps I'd understand. Mayve lost even more, yet she was practical and still nice and what she went through..... But noooo our Miss here was always one finger off the grenade. Why did she always need someone to always talk her down??
It was a rinse and repeat, running away, smelly, hurt and hungry... Oooh my bad snapping and angry.
Tedious.
I tried, honestly I tried.... I just couldn't bring myself to care anymore.
Callie, Callie.... Nope! didn't like her, didn't connect at all. How easy it would have been to write sympathy into her character? A word here, a word there, we would all have been holding our Kleenex bawling.... Could have made it easier to root for her, that's what books like these need.
Couldn't care any less what her sword fighting skill is. Her characterisation is so patchy, like she can't control her emotions... Except for that scar what does Callie even look like???
One of my pet hates is heroines that think anger makes them "different". If Callie was only a fire element perhaps I'd understand. Mayve lost even more, yet she was practical and still nice and what she went through..... But noooo our Miss here was always one finger off the grenade. Why did she always need someone to always talk her down??
It was a rinse and repeat, running away, smelly, hurt and hungry... Oooh my bad snapping and angry.
Tedious.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was skeptical of the book at first because there was a point in the beginning where Cali had to fight off a sexual assault. I managed to get through that part, and I'm glad I did. Taylor built a fantastical, beautiful world in which magic endures. The journey that Cali persevered on was nothing short of epic, and her interactions with the world were stunning.
The characters were exquisitely designed. Each character had their own personalities, quirks, and code of ethics. The interactions between the characters were engaging and kept me reading into the wee hours of the night. The romance enhanced the plot; I wouldn't define it as clean, but it wasn't spicy either. Either way, it didn't interfere with the overarching tale of a relentless and unforgiving fight for survival against all odds. The end of the book was surprising to say the least, and I'm hoping this debut book is the beginning of a series. If so, I'm on board to read the next one.
The characters were exquisitely designed. Each character had their own personalities, quirks, and code of ethics. The interactions between the characters were engaging and kept me reading into the wee hours of the night. The romance enhanced the plot; I wouldn't define it as clean, but it wasn't spicy either. Either way, it didn't interfere with the overarching tale of a relentless and unforgiving fight for survival against all odds. The end of the book was surprising to say the least, and I'm hoping this debut book is the beginning of a series. If so, I'm on board to read the next one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There is nothing easy about Reviled, and that is exactly what makes it so hard to put down. Cali is the kind of heroine who keeps moving even when the world gives her every reason to give up. Marked as an outcast because of her sister’s forbidden magic, she spends years surviving on anger, stubbornness, and the hope that she can one day bring her family back together. What surprised me most was how often the book challenged my assumptions about who was right, who was wrong, and what was really hiding beneath the kingdom’s holy laws. The friendships, betrayals, and connections at the heart of the story all felt earned. If you like fantasy that is dark without losing sight of the people fighting through it, this one is well worth your time.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Marked by a scar she did not earn and hunted for a crime she never committed, Cali has spent fifteen years searching for the sister stolen from her by a ruthless religious order. What follows is a fantasy filled with forbidden magic, hidden truths, deadly enemies, and alliances forged under impossible circumstances. Reviled combines high stakes, fierce determination, and romance to create a story where every discovery comes with a price and every choice carries consequences. A powerful tale of survival, loyalty, and the search for truth in a world built on fear. The ending leaves readers eager to see what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and JP Taylor for the eARC of this book.
I went into this book thinking it was like Trial of the Sun Queen or Fourth Wing where the action and fantasy would be coupled with romance. I liked the way the author set up the world building but I just felt like the romance fell flat and was so secondary to the plot and overall story. I really wanted to like this more but I just couldn’t really get into it.
I went into this book thinking it was like Trial of the Sun Queen or Fourth Wing where the action and fantasy would be coupled with romance. I liked the way the author set up the world building but I just felt like the romance fell flat and was so secondary to the plot and overall story. I really wanted to like this more but I just couldn’t really get into it.
Review of advance copy
I loved everything about this story. It starts off with quite a punch and doesn't stop. Such a fast paced read, something was always happening. Cali our main character is a badass and a hothead, which gets her into trouble more often than not. Her rage is justified with everything.
Her life was never easy, and luck has never been on her side. Everything was amazing. It's extremely refreshing to have such a strong willed main female character.
I don't know if this is going to be a series (I'm really hoping it is) because I need to know what happens and I need to see more of these characters! I've never been a series person either.
Most definitely in my list of favorite books. I need more!!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Her life was never easy, and luck has never been on her side. Everything was amazing. It's extremely refreshing to have such a strong willed main female character.
I don't know if this is going to be a series (I'm really hoping it is) because I need to know what happens and I need to see more of these characters! I've never been a series person either.
Most definitely in my list of favorite books. I need more!!!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was filled to the brim with action from the very first page, twists and turns every few pages! This book gave me Anathema vibes, but with dragons and magic! It was so good and I am really hoping there's a book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Excellent as always, JP doesn't disappoint!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Excellent book. Captivating and fast-paced action. Will eagerly await the next one in this series.
July 10, 2026
From the cover, to the title to the plot, this was a great dark fantasy adventure. My biggest issue was that the FMC was so irredeemably immature and unlikable, that the romantic connections and the loyalty she garnered felt like the most unbelievable part of the story. Super interesting world building and adventure from start to finish though.
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