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War of Heavenly Fire #1
Queen of Darkness
I am what they made me.
Lethal. Savage. Royal.
Now I've been unleashed.
When I'm sent to kill the the angels leading heaven’s army, I didn't realize death would be the least of my worries.
Now my heart is at risk.
Four angels stand between me and the throne that I've earned.
A deadly warrior gifted with silver fire. The spirit of silence, stealth, and smoke. Heaven's prince and radiant star. And the fallen angel who's branded my soul.
I have two choices: end the war and their lives, or turn my back on everything I've ever known. Infernal blaze, or heavenly fire.
But each choice has a cost.
In order to embrace one light, I must become the Queen of Darkness.
Queen of Darkness is the first book in a steamy, medium-burn reverse harem fantasy paranormal trilogy. No choosing, no cheating. This book contains dark themes—mature readers only. Beware of cliff-hangers!
Lethal. Savage. Royal.
Now I've been unleashed.
When I'm sent to kill the the angels leading heaven’s army, I didn't realize death would be the least of my worries.
Now my heart is at risk.
Four angels stand between me and the throne that I've earned.
A deadly warrior gifted with silver fire. The spirit of silence, stealth, and smoke. Heaven's prince and radiant star. And the fallen angel who's branded my soul.
I have two choices: end the war and their lives, or turn my back on everything I've ever known. Infernal blaze, or heavenly fire.
But each choice has a cost.
In order to embrace one light, I must become the Queen of Darkness.
Queen of Darkness is the first book in a steamy, medium-burn reverse harem fantasy paranormal trilogy. No choosing, no cheating. This book contains dark themes—mature readers only. Beware of cliff-hangers!
178 pages, ebook
First published April 24, 2020
132 people are currently reading
540 people want to read
About the author
Devyn Sinclair
37 books1,549 followersDevyn Sinclair writes steamy Reverse Harem romances for your wildest fantasies. Every sexy story is packed with the right amount steam, fiery hot men, and delicious happy endings.
She lives in the wilds of Montana in a small red house with a crazy orange cat. When Devyn's not writing, she spends time outside in big sky country, continues her quest to find the best lemon pastry there is, drinks a lot of tea and buys too many books. (Of course!)
She lives in the wilds of Montana in a small red house with a crazy orange cat. When Devyn's not writing, she spends time outside in big sky country, continues her quest to find the best lemon pastry there is, drinks a lot of tea and buys too many books. (Of course!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
May 15, 2020
I was sent to kill you but even though I've been brainwashed in hell since I was born and I know the consequences of not completing this mission, I'm not going to kill you. Why ? Because I've been in love with you since I met you, which was three days ago but I'm willing to suffer through pain for the rest eternal life😒.
Please😑🥱.
Please😑🥱.
April 24, 2020
I received an ARC copy of this book, courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review :)
...and boy, am I glad!!
This book was awesome!! I loved the main character and her men, however my one problem was that I thought the romance progressed a bit too quickly. However, that’s just for my tastes as I rather slow-burns!
I absolutely loved the idea of having not only the heroine, but one of her mates as well, be part of one side of the war while the rest of her mates were leading the other side. It made it harder to tell her to give up her side of the war and join the Angels’ cause, because I knew she would also be losing her other mate as well.
The storyline in general was great, and I always love a strong heroine who can fight and has powers, so that’s a major plus. While there are some triggers, everything that the heroine has gone through makes the story more poignant and made me so much happier when she got with her guys and was treated right.
All in all, this was a great book, but I need the second one ASAP after that cliffhanger
...and boy, am I glad!!
This book was awesome!! I loved the main character and her men, however my one problem was that I thought the romance progressed a bit too quickly. However, that’s just for my tastes as I rather slow-burns!
I absolutely loved the idea of having not only the heroine, but one of her mates as well, be part of one side of the war while the rest of her mates were leading the other side. It made it harder to tell her to give up her side of the war and join the Angels’ cause, because I knew she would also be losing her other mate as well.
The storyline in general was great, and I always love a strong heroine who can fight and has powers, so that’s a major plus. While there are some triggers, everything that the heroine has gone through makes the story more poignant and made me so much happier when she got with her guys and was treated right.
All in all, this was a great book, but I need the second one ASAP after that cliffhanger
April 24, 2020
Holy Hell, no pun intended, this book was INCREDIBLE! This was the first book I’ve read from Sinclair and I was not disappointed. Queen of Darkness contains everything you need in a dark paranormal romance. There is the war between good and evil and all of the blurred lines in between. We have a killer heroine, Arielle. She is ruthless but my heart broke for her multiple times in this story. She may be a queen but her throne was hard won. Let us not forget about all of the men in her life. I loved the change in the RH aspect of this book in that not all of her mates are on the same side of the war. This book contains some incredibly dark themes/scenes, so that is my first warning. Second warning, the ending is a massive cliffhanger! I loved this book and couldn’t put it down, I really hope book 2 comes out soon!!!!
April 28, 2020
Brilliant first book in a new series.
This book centres around Arielle, a human taken as a child and molded to become the vessel of the underworld in the battle against the angels. I liked how even through everything she hadnt been broken or lost her humanity or her hope. I loved her relationship with Cassian despite how fucked up it is. I really want to find out why he did what he did to become fallen!
Out of the three angels Solomon is my favourite and I think that despite the trust issues he had at the beginning I hope he is the one that pursuades the others to forgive her though it did annoy me that they ignored the fact that she was a human who had been stolen and treated her like sh chose the life shes been forced into. I liked that Kai dove immediately into the bond but felt Atlas kind of just followed Kai but hopefully will find out more about them in the next book.
I do want to find out more about Nissa as well. As it was interesting to see from Arielles perspective that though they have similar background storylines that she seems to have embraced more of the darkness and I wonder why and what happens to her with Telem. I sort of hope she becomes an ally of Arielle and that there was a reason they were both potential vessels.
The ending as well! I was hoping they could escape together! Still hoping for that!
Cant wait for book two to find out what happens!
This book centres around Arielle, a human taken as a child and molded to become the vessel of the underworld in the battle against the angels. I liked how even through everything she hadnt been broken or lost her humanity or her hope. I loved her relationship with Cassian despite how fucked up it is. I really want to find out why he did what he did to become fallen!
Out of the three angels Solomon is my favourite and I think that despite the trust issues he had at the beginning I hope he is the one that pursuades the others to forgive her though it did annoy me that they ignored the fact that she was a human who had been stolen and treated her like sh chose the life shes been forced into. I liked that Kai dove immediately into the bond but felt Atlas kind of just followed Kai but hopefully will find out more about them in the next book.
I do want to find out more about Nissa as well. As it was interesting to see from Arielles perspective that though they have similar background storylines that she seems to have embraced more of the darkness and I wonder why and what happens to her with Telem. I sort of hope she becomes an ally of Arielle and that there was a reason they were both potential vessels.
The ending as well! I was hoping they could escape together! Still hoping for that!
Cant wait for book two to find out what happens!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2020
*Spoiler Alert*
Dark, Light, Demons and Angels are both equally seductive in this book. Arielle (FMC) is not only an assassin for the Demons but shes also a vessel for the infernal flame which is potentially the next ruler of the underworld. When the current king - Arad gives her an impossible task she ends up in the middle of the war between Angels & Demons. With 4 men vying for her. Fallen Angel & Soul Bonded - Cassian as well as 3 Angels - Malakai, Atlas and Solomon. Plenty of steamy scenarios with these guys & the story certainly keeps you on your toes. That cliffhanger ending?? Flaming hell!! Loved it and i cant wait for the next one
Dark, Light, Demons and Angels are both equally seductive in this book. Arielle (FMC) is not only an assassin for the Demons but shes also a vessel for the infernal flame which is potentially the next ruler of the underworld. When the current king - Arad gives her an impossible task she ends up in the middle of the war between Angels & Demons. With 4 men vying for her. Fallen Angel & Soul Bonded - Cassian as well as 3 Angels - Malakai, Atlas and Solomon. Plenty of steamy scenarios with these guys & the story certainly keeps you on your toes. That cliffhanger ending?? Flaming hell!! Loved it and i cant wait for the next one
April 23, 2020
I love everything that has to do with heaven, hell, angels and demons and this book did not disappoint. I loved the premise behind Arielle and who and what she is. She is an assassin but she is also so much more. She feels so deeply even though she has been put through so much pain in her life. My heart absolutely broke for her multiple times while reading this book. That cliffhanger just about killed me. I don’t know how I can possibly wait for the next book.
Devyn Sinclair absolutely killed it again. If you love angels and demons, sexy and snarky characters and lots of hot and dirty interactions, you need to read this book.
Devyn Sinclair absolutely killed it again. If you love angels and demons, sexy and snarky characters and lots of hot and dirty interactions, you need to read this book.
April 24, 2020
WOW WOW
This is an amazing read, that once I started I was unable to put down. From the moment that I started I was hooked. It moves along at a great pace. The characters are so real that you cannot help but fall in love with them and no matter what you want to see them succeed. The story will take you away and keep you turning the pages till the very end. This book is a must read and I cannot wait to read what happens next, This needs to be on your to be read list, no doubt about it.
This is an amazing read, that once I started I was unable to put down. From the moment that I started I was hooked. It moves along at a great pace. The characters are so real that you cannot help but fall in love with them and no matter what you want to see them succeed. The story will take you away and keep you turning the pages till the very end. This book is a must read and I cannot wait to read what happens next, This needs to be on your to be read list, no doubt about it.
April 24, 2020
Oh. My. God. This is amazing. I'm still fangirling over this book, hard, and its been almost a week since I finished it. It's so dark, and gritty, sad but uplifting, and so freaking hot I think I melted a few times... Basically, I have so many feelings, I'm overloaded. If you read any book this year, do yourselves a favour and read this one. I'd give it more stars if I could. AND THAT ENDING IS SUPER MEAN BUT I LOVE IT
April 24, 2020
Wow! Queen of Darkness lives up to it's name and I live for this darkness! This read hooks you from the first page! It's a fast burn read, that doesn't stop moving from start to finish! Once I started I couldn't put it down. The characters are so intense in the best way! And the plot/world building is so interesting I can't wait to see more!
April 24, 2020
This book was so freaking an amazing! Its exactly what I have been looking for. It took me through so many emotions and left me begging for more. The MC has such a dark past and I’m dying to know more about Cassian’s past! Thank you for writing such an incredible book. I look forward to your next but will be reading your other books until then :)
April 26, 2020
What just happened?
This is the first book of Sinclair’s that I’ve read, but it definitely won’t be the last. I am anxiously awaiting the next part of this trilogy, because honestly, that cliff was BRUTAL.
I really like the differences between the different parts of the harem, even if some people won’t just get it together.
I’m staking my claim on Solomon though. Just something about that one tells me I need to watch closely.
This is the first book of Sinclair’s that I’ve read, but it definitely won’t be the last. I am anxiously awaiting the next part of this trilogy, because honestly, that cliff was BRUTAL.
I really like the differences between the different parts of the harem, even if some people won’t just get it together.
I’m staking my claim on Solomon though. Just something about that one tells me I need to watch closely.
January 16, 2023
a heart breaking plot
Spice: 3/5
I’m so addicted. I want an easier life for poor Ari, but this is so captivating. Truly a well down story. I can’t wait to read the next parts of this series. So far I can’t predict the ending and that has me so excited, I love not knowing how it’ll end
Spice: 3/5
I’m so addicted. I want an easier life for poor Ari, but this is so captivating. Truly a well down story. I can’t wait to read the next parts of this series. So far I can’t predict the ending and that has me so excited, I love not knowing how it’ll end
April 22, 2020
This is one steamy and emotional book. The characters development was amazing and I can't wait to continue the series, it had me hooked from the first chapter and I couldn't put it down.
April 25, 2020
I'm new to Devyn's work and after reading Queen of Darkness I fully intend to binge read her other books. I absolutely loved the story line and once I started, I struggled to put the book back down. I really enjoyed seeing Arielle evolve as a character as she was fighting her upbringing, as well as the bond building between her and her angels. I can't wait for the next book to come out (please don't keep us waiting 🙏) and see what happens to Arielle and her sexy men.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2020
Gah. This was such an amazing page turner! The characters instantly draw you in wanting to know more about them. Arielle has had such a terrible past and present. She's been picked and prodded, broken and then molded into what her father wanted her to be. So different from her sister, the other vessel, she didn't revel in the pain, punishment, and death she was forced to do. You can tell that she has a good heart because she was affected by each and every mission put upon her. Cassian is one that really intrigues me even though I can't say he is my favorite of the guys. I'm really interested to hear more about his past and the reason why he is now in Hell. I know there has to be more to that. The archangels are different than I expected them to be, but in a good way. I really enjoyed getting to know them at the different speeds that they allowed. I'm looking forward to learning more about them in the next book, and hopefully they come to their senses and see how much Arielle really had on the line. Arielle's internal struggle of choosing between the archangels and hell is palpable. She's put into an impossible situation of choosing between something that she has worked towards her entire life and the freedom she has always wanted or to finally be seen as the person she is and be loved. What are the consequences for choosing one over the other?
May 1, 2020
Omg I loved this book that cliffhanger though why you are evil!! That was just mean to leave it like that 😭😭😭
I could not put it down cannot wait for the next book
I could not put it down cannot wait for the next book
July 20, 2020
I liked most of it
This was a really interesting read and I was really happy to see our fmc be strong for herself. I was on the edge of my seat and just flying through this book in the beginning because I just HAD to know what was next! But then the alter happened, and then the visit, the the final pairing and it just kept adding up. Our girl is strong but she has a very bad past of abuse and being used and there seems to be an author driven lack of care for our fmc - especially from the men of the story. I want to read the rest of the books so I can see our fmc be free and be respected but the groundwork that has been laid between her and her men isn’t giving me hope. And I’m devastated on how the relationships have started to be honest. I would still recommend this book but just a warning, it’s brutal in all aspects...plot, world, past, present, and foreseeable future.
This was a really interesting read and I was really happy to see our fmc be strong for herself. I was on the edge of my seat and just flying through this book in the beginning because I just HAD to know what was next! But then the alter happened, and then the visit, the the final pairing and it just kept adding up. Our girl is strong but she has a very bad past of abuse and being used and there seems to be an author driven lack of care for our fmc - especially from the men of the story. I want to read the rest of the books so I can see our fmc be free and be respected but the groundwork that has been laid between her and her men isn’t giving me hope. And I’m devastated on how the relationships have started to be honest. I would still recommend this book but just a warning, it’s brutal in all aspects...plot, world, past, present, and foreseeable future.
November 2, 2020
This was the first story I've read by this particular author and I have to say I loved this book from the start, and couldn't put it down I just kept turning the pages until I reached the end, and what a cliffhanger ending there was
Arielle is a vessel of the underworld, one of two potential heirs to the throne, an assassin, and seductress. This book definitely delves into the dark side and you may find some triggers along the way as Arielle's body is used by those her father to get results.
I like the idea behind this story, even though one of her harem is part of hell it turns out the other three are on heavens side. Arielle is sent on a mission to murder the very men who should be part of her harem. Some of the connections between characters were very quick, especially with two of heavens angels but I loved the fact that the connection with the other took a little longer.
I am looking forward to the second story in this series, but I admit I'd maybe like to see the point of view from some of the men in Arielle's life, just to see the other side of the relationship. If that happens in the next one then awesome, but if it doesn't I know I will still enjoy it.
Arielle is a vessel of the underworld, one of two potential heirs to the throne, an assassin, and seductress. This book definitely delves into the dark side and you may find some triggers along the way as Arielle's body is used by those her father to get results.
I like the idea behind this story, even though one of her harem is part of hell it turns out the other three are on heavens side. Arielle is sent on a mission to murder the very men who should be part of her harem. Some of the connections between characters were very quick, especially with two of heavens angels but I loved the fact that the connection with the other took a little longer.
I am looking forward to the second story in this series, but I admit I'd maybe like to see the point of view from some of the men in Arielle's life, just to see the other side of the relationship. If that happens in the next one then awesome, but if it doesn't I know I will still enjoy it.
November 10, 2020
**Warning- there is talk of rape, physical and mental abuse but it is light mentions in passing of scenes**
WIth that said this book is freaking amazing. It is well written and as you read you can actually picture it in your mind. Arielle is the mc who is hardcore. I mean once you read about what she has been through you will totally understand. She has a sister Nissa who she is in competition with. Why? Well to find out who is going to become the Queen of Darkness. So do we find out who becomes the Queen? She has another mission to infiltrate the High Trinity. So we have good vs bad? Arielle is raised to do bad things but she hates it! So what does she do? Does she complete her mission or fail. All I know is that when it ended, i was shocked! I need to know what is going to happen. It can go several ways and I need to know soon.
WIth that said this book is freaking amazing. It is well written and as you read you can actually picture it in your mind. Arielle is the mc who is hardcore. I mean once you read about what she has been through you will totally understand. She has a sister Nissa who she is in competition with. Why? Well to find out who is going to become the Queen of Darkness. So do we find out who becomes the Queen? She has another mission to infiltrate the High Trinity. So we have good vs bad? Arielle is raised to do bad things but she hates it! So what does she do? Does she complete her mission or fail. All I know is that when it ended, i was shocked! I need to know what is going to happen. It can go several ways and I need to know soon.
March 8, 2021
Well written but brutal
I saw the warning about mature themes but still didn't expect how brutal her world is. Even with her harem its just Dominance and no gentleness. From the background she has of being forced to please men sexually you would think she would want the opposite in private. We are told that she likes how they are but it just made me cringe. The story itself is very well written and an interesting plot but I couldn't finish it due to her relationships within her harem. I would recommend it but be aware that is it DARK. extremely dark and could be triggering.
I saw the warning about mature themes but still didn't expect how brutal her world is. Even with her harem its just Dominance and no gentleness. From the background she has of being forced to please men sexually you would think she would want the opposite in private. We are told that she likes how they are but it just made me cringe. The story itself is very well written and an interesting plot but I couldn't finish it due to her relationships within her harem. I would recommend it but be aware that is it DARK. extremely dark and could be triggering.
April 30, 2020
Note: I received this book from the author and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.
OMG! This book... It was dark, gruesome, and unlike anything, I have ever read. Devyn has taken the angel mythology and turned it on its head. Queen of Darkness shocked the heck out of me and I am still not recovered.
Just a warning this book has triggers, things are very dark with talks of slavery, physical abuse talks of murder and so much more. This book was so interesting but mostly I was dying the entire time. I was on the edge of my seat wait for something horrible to happen, I just knew it was, how could it not. My nerves are shot, it took me longer to read this book because I kept looking for the other shoe to drop through the last half of the book. It could have happened at any moment and it killed me because I like Arielle a lot and I didn't look forward to seeing the disaster that was heading her way.
Arielle is strong, fierce, confident, powerful she is the heir to Hell's throne. She has survived a lot, this isn't some fluffy version of Hell, the demons and Arielle's father Arad (the king of hell) are brutal, horrible creatures that use Arielle anyway they see fit. Arielle survives by doing what she must, to become an assassin and seductress for Hell, to be a warrior and to never undermind her father and she did it all as a human. She rose to the occasion, excepted her fate became the keeper of Hell's flame until one assignment changes it all.
Heaven and Hell are always at war, the Arcangel Trinty is Heaven's most powerful angels have to fall for Hell to finally win the war. Arielle is sent to seduce and kill the trio. The guys were pretty easy to like right away. I loved Kai with his laid back kindness right from the start, while Atlas the book nerd speaks to my nerdy heart and Sol with all his walls, all of them fit Arielle so well. I loved them together they brought out a different side in Arielle and she, in turn, gave each of them some kind of happiness. The steam was of the fast-burn persuasion but it worked for me.
Cassian is another important character who is apart of Arielle's life in Hell. They are close and have a special relationship, she is closer to him than anyone else but their relationship is kinda difficult and I don't really know what to feel about it but confusion. I am highly curious about Cassian's past and I am really curious about his future.
Queen of Darkness is kinda harsh but I still enjoyed the story, the only complaint I have is that I wish it was told from multiple points of view and I really hope that in the next book the guys get their own chapters. I have so many questions and I am wondering about so many things that were hinted at. This book ended on a wicked cliffhanger and once again I am on edge but now I have to wait for the next book which is gonna be torture but I am so curious about what's gonna happen in the next book.
OMG! This book... It was dark, gruesome, and unlike anything, I have ever read. Devyn has taken the angel mythology and turned it on its head. Queen of Darkness shocked the heck out of me and I am still not recovered.
Just a warning this book has triggers, things are very dark with talks of slavery, physical abuse talks of murder and so much more. This book was so interesting but mostly I was dying the entire time. I was on the edge of my seat wait for something horrible to happen, I just knew it was, how could it not. My nerves are shot, it took me longer to read this book because I kept looking for the other shoe to drop through the last half of the book. It could have happened at any moment and it killed me because I like Arielle a lot and I didn't look forward to seeing the disaster that was heading her way.
Arielle is strong, fierce, confident, powerful she is the heir to Hell's throne. She has survived a lot, this isn't some fluffy version of Hell, the demons and Arielle's father Arad (the king of hell) are brutal, horrible creatures that use Arielle anyway they see fit. Arielle survives by doing what she must, to become an assassin and seductress for Hell, to be a warrior and to never undermind her father and she did it all as a human. She rose to the occasion, excepted her fate became the keeper of Hell's flame until one assignment changes it all.
Heaven and Hell are always at war, the Arcangel Trinty is Heaven's most powerful angels have to fall for Hell to finally win the war. Arielle is sent to seduce and kill the trio. The guys were pretty easy to like right away. I loved Kai with his laid back kindness right from the start, while Atlas the book nerd speaks to my nerdy heart and Sol with all his walls, all of them fit Arielle so well. I loved them together they brought out a different side in Arielle and she, in turn, gave each of them some kind of happiness. The steam was of the fast-burn persuasion but it worked for me.
Cassian is another important character who is apart of Arielle's life in Hell. They are close and have a special relationship, she is closer to him than anyone else but their relationship is kinda difficult and I don't really know what to feel about it but confusion. I am highly curious about Cassian's past and I am really curious about his future.
Queen of Darkness is kinda harsh but I still enjoyed the story, the only complaint I have is that I wish it was told from multiple points of view and I really hope that in the next book the guys get their own chapters. I have so many questions and I am wondering about so many things that were hinted at. This book ended on a wicked cliffhanger and once again I am on edge but now I have to wait for the next book which is gonna be torture but I am so curious about what's gonna happen in the next book.
January 29, 2024
I’ve not read the original version, so I have nothing to compare it with. But I do like the authors other series (based in an Omegaverse) This is a whychoose book and three book series. I’m aware of the cliffhanger, and I know my triggers….. Queen of Darkness starts at a fast pace and continues at that pace till the cliffhanger ending…. The main character, Arielle has had such a terrible past and her present isn’t all that great either!! She's been attacked physically and mentally and remodelled into a role that her father wanted her to be… Arielle is a vessel for the infernal flame which is potentially the next ruler of the underworld! But it’s not an easy throne to obtain, task after task is thrown at Arielle, and she completes each and every one. Arielle doesn’t enjoy her tasks of killing, but the alternative doesn’t bear thinking about! And now she’s been assigned the job of killing three archangels, she knows she’s good at her job, so she’s confident it won’t be hard…. So technically she’s on the side of evil? She has to kill to survive (does that make her bad?) Cassian is an archangel, not sure why he’s in hell. And to be honest, he’s not my favourite character, he was hard to get to know. He taught Arielle to fight, he’s trained her hard, but there are feelings between them, both want more, but both understand they can’t have that! Malakai (Kai) Atlas and Solomon are known as the Trinity. And are on the side of good. I liked the concept of this book. If angels fall they usually have turned evil, but not in this book. The struggle they face makes you want to read more of them and I couldn’t put the book down until I finished it. Arielle really struggles with choosing the deaths of Solomon/Atlas/Kai or having the thing she most wants. You want her to choose the three archangels, but you’ve also watched her become more, so I wanted her to have both 😝 But how do you choose between something that you have worked towards your entire life and the freedom that you’ve always wanted, or to finally be seen as the person you are and be loved. What will be the consequences for choosing one over the other? Highly recommend this book. And now I’m off to find the next book. Oh…. And the cliffhanger…. That I did not see coming!!! 😲 🦋
September 19, 2025
Talk about a page-turner. This book captured attention from the very first page, taking readers on a journey that was as dark and painful as it was lighthearted and sweet. The constant thread of danger and suspense kept the tension high, and with the promise of even higher stakes in the next book, the need to continue the series is REAL.
It should be said that there were some very dark aspects of this book and likely the entire series. The author kindly provided content warnings on her website that I’ll include below with some extra details added in for clarity.
All in all, this why-choose paranormal romance had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. I loved it.
Trigger Warnings:
Minor spoilers ahead. Anything in brackets [like this] is added in by me. SA heavily mentioned.
From the author’s website: Abuse, (past sexual, emotional) [and physical. This continues throughout the entire book either in mentions of past experiences or as on-page torture scenes. Most are orchestrated by her father], dub con [on-page by an assumed MMC. They’re both consenting to each other but are forced to be publicly intimate. FMC is restrained], rape (in character's past) [FMC’s father would punish her by “giving” her to his advisors. Mentions of the abuse and a handful of flashbacks happen throughout the entire book and are a big part of the FMC’s past. Can’t be skipped without missing a big part of the story], sexual assault (attempted and failed), sexual humiliation [mentions of having to prove her seduction skills, being stripped naked, and having memories of forced intimate moments played in front of an audience], images and discussion of slavery [including sexual slavery], and violence [ranging from sparring to full on torture scenes].
The FMC is deeply traumatized but it’s mentioned that she normalizes her past because she doesn’t realize how bad it actually was. It’s assumed this will be addressed in the rest of the series.
It should be said that there were some very dark aspects of this book and likely the entire series. The author kindly provided content warnings on her website that I’ll include below with some extra details added in for clarity.
All in all, this why-choose paranormal romance had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. I loved it.
Trigger Warnings:
Minor spoilers ahead. Anything in brackets [like this] is added in by me. SA heavily mentioned.
From the author’s website: Abuse, (past sexual, emotional) [and physical. This continues throughout the entire book either in mentions of past experiences or as on-page torture scenes. Most are orchestrated by her father], dub con [on-page by an assumed MMC. They’re both consenting to each other but are forced to be publicly intimate. FMC is restrained], rape (in character's past) [FMC’s father would punish her by “giving” her to his advisors. Mentions of the abuse and a handful of flashbacks happen throughout the entire book and are a big part of the FMC’s past. Can’t be skipped without missing a big part of the story], sexual assault (attempted and failed), sexual humiliation [mentions of having to prove her seduction skills, being stripped naked, and having memories of forced intimate moments played in front of an audience], images and discussion of slavery [including sexual slavery], and violence [ranging from sparring to full on torture scenes].
The FMC is deeply traumatized but it’s mentioned that she normalizes her past because she doesn’t realize how bad it actually was. It’s assumed this will be addressed in the rest of the series.
April 25, 2020
"Queen of Darkness" by Devyn Sinclair is the 1st book in the War of Heavenly Fire series. This is a fast paced steamy novel based on Arielle, a human chosen as the vessel of darkness to be the next in line to rule the underworld.
With Arielle's undeniable connection to the Fallen Angel Cassian, and the new pleasurable light of the archangels, this makes for an epic read. A little hell, a little heaven, and a whole lot of fire.
There is an undeniable darkness inside Arielle but also the potential for great light. To be able to bring hell while indulging in heaven is part of what makes this character great. I love the trials and tortures that she has had to and still will bare, and i adore the unconditional allegiance of Cassian regardless of what Arielle does. The 3 archangels Solomon, Malakai and Atlas are sexy, forbidden and show Arielle another way; a way of pleasure, safety and body worship. How is a girl suppose to get all these gifts and remain the same?
I think this book has good character development for the MFC and I'm looking forward to finding out more about the guys as we go along. The plot is exciting and followed through well and Devyn's writing style is on point!
I highly recommend this book. I could not put it down and I'm dying for the next one!!
This is a dark RH, with possible triggers and a cliffhanger. I would recommend this for a mature audience.
With Arielle's undeniable connection to the Fallen Angel Cassian, and the new pleasurable light of the archangels, this makes for an epic read. A little hell, a little heaven, and a whole lot of fire.
There is an undeniable darkness inside Arielle but also the potential for great light. To be able to bring hell while indulging in heaven is part of what makes this character great. I love the trials and tortures that she has had to and still will bare, and i adore the unconditional allegiance of Cassian regardless of what Arielle does. The 3 archangels Solomon, Malakai and Atlas are sexy, forbidden and show Arielle another way; a way of pleasure, safety and body worship. How is a girl suppose to get all these gifts and remain the same?
I think this book has good character development for the MFC and I'm looking forward to finding out more about the guys as we go along. The plot is exciting and followed through well and Devyn's writing style is on point!
I highly recommend this book. I could not put it down and I'm dying for the next one!!
This is a dark RH, with possible triggers and a cliffhanger. I would recommend this for a mature audience.
August 7, 2020
This book was okay. It was really short and super rushed. The idea was good and had potential but there was no time to learn about the characters and develop any attachment.
So much detail was left out. I don't know if that was on purpose so the reader is forced to create their own interpretation but I found it kinda annoying. For example, no clues as to what the characters looked like. I don't think we even find out Cassian's hair color until she finally describes Kai's like a third into the book?
Like, let me know Arielle's wearing, what she's experiencing and thinking, show us development. Give us the moments in between the action to give us an idea of who these characters actually are. The world seemed interesting but totally fell flat because it wasn't given justice or really even explained. Also, the whole Arcangel falling in love and gaining trust thing was dealt with way too fast. I felt like I read a tl;dr on a book that could've been fun and interesting.
That being said I need to know what happens next so I'll be looking out for the second book, hopefully it goes into more detail and I get a better understanding of who these characters are and the world they're living in!
So much detail was left out. I don't know if that was on purpose so the reader is forced to create their own interpretation but I found it kinda annoying. For example, no clues as to what the characters looked like. I don't think we even find out Cassian's hair color until she finally describes Kai's like a third into the book?
Like, let me know Arielle's wearing, what she's experiencing and thinking, show us development. Give us the moments in between the action to give us an idea of who these characters actually are. The world seemed interesting but totally fell flat because it wasn't given justice or really even explained. Also, the whole Arcangel falling in love and gaining trust thing was dealt with way too fast. I felt like I read a tl;dr on a book that could've been fun and interesting.
That being said I need to know what happens next so I'll be looking out for the second book, hopefully it goes into more detail and I get a better understanding of who these characters are and the world they're living in!
April 28, 2020
Oh my gosh I’m still reeling from that cliffy and unsure how best to put my love for Queen of Darkness into words.
I guess we should really start with what is most important here, Solomon is mine. I’ve claimed him all to myself and will not be transferring ownership rights any time soon. All the men in Arielle’s harem are sexy as sin tho, so I’m sure you can make due with the other three that I haven’t claimed.
Arielle’s history has my heart in a billion pieces. She’s had such a rough life thus far, the path to obtain the status of Hell’s queen has not been an easy one and it’s definitely taken a toll on her. Her father, if you can even call him that, is a cruel and sadistic man who has tortured and molded her into the perfect assassin/seductress.
There’s a reason this book is titled Queen of Darkness, it truly lived up to its title. However I truly believe that while it is dark it isn’t triggering. At least it wasn’t for me, and I have multiple triggers that are normally very easily set off.
I’m incredibly anxious to get my hands on book two! I don’t think I’ll be able to wait much longer to find out what happens... evil cliffhanger. Haha!
I guess we should really start with what is most important here, Solomon is mine. I’ve claimed him all to myself and will not be transferring ownership rights any time soon. All the men in Arielle’s harem are sexy as sin tho, so I’m sure you can make due with the other three that I haven’t claimed.
Arielle’s history has my heart in a billion pieces. She’s had such a rough life thus far, the path to obtain the status of Hell’s queen has not been an easy one and it’s definitely taken a toll on her. Her father, if you can even call him that, is a cruel and sadistic man who has tortured and molded her into the perfect assassin/seductress.
There’s a reason this book is titled Queen of Darkness, it truly lived up to its title. However I truly believe that while it is dark it isn’t triggering. At least it wasn’t for me, and I have multiple triggers that are normally very easily set off.
I’m incredibly anxious to get my hands on book two! I don’t think I’ll be able to wait much longer to find out what happens... evil cliffhanger. Haha!
January 27, 2024
Arielle is a human raised in Tartarus, together with her sister, because it has been foretold that one of them would take the crown. After a duel with her sister, Arielle gets bonded to a fallen angel and becomes the Vessel - only to be queen if she kills the current ruling archangels - the High Trinity ruling over Asterium. When she meets them, though, there’s this undeniable connection - what do you do when the foundation of everything you’ve ever known and believed in gets shaken?
I had such a hard time keeping myself from reading the last chapter of the third book to get some reassurance that everything would end up happily ever after. The series had me on the edge of my seat, scared and excited to see what would happen next. Devyn Sinclair’s writing has never disappointed me and this series is no different. It’s a fast read, fast-paced romance, and throughout it never gets boring or drawn out.
I had such a hard time keeping myself from reading the last chapter of the third book to get some reassurance that everything would end up happily ever after. The series had me on the edge of my seat, scared and excited to see what would happen next. Devyn Sinclair’s writing has never disappointed me and this series is no different. It’s a fast read, fast-paced romance, and throughout it never gets boring or drawn out.
April 24, 2020
3.5/5 stars.
Overall, great first book. This is not a light book, it has dark aspects. Those dark aspects did give me pause in the beginning but in no way effected my rating.
Arielle is one of two in line for the throne of the underworld. She's given tasks by the current king to complete in order to show her worth. Right away I knew Arielle was not where she was meant to be. She just seemed sad, but as her history goes into detail you fully understand the meaning of living in hell.
Her men in my opinion were amazing. The author wrote them well. Each very similar but different in there own. Honestly Cassian has me meh.. he was a great character and I understand the position he was put in. But I believe because his past is so blank, and we didn't see much of him in this book.
Overall good first book, world building was good. Can't wait for the second
Overall, great first book. This is not a light book, it has dark aspects. Those dark aspects did give me pause in the beginning but in no way effected my rating.
Arielle is one of two in line for the throne of the underworld. She's given tasks by the current king to complete in order to show her worth. Right away I knew Arielle was not where she was meant to be. She just seemed sad, but as her history goes into detail you fully understand the meaning of living in hell.
Her men in my opinion were amazing. The author wrote them well. Each very similar but different in there own. Honestly Cassian has me meh.. he was a great character and I understand the position he was put in. But I believe because his past is so blank, and we didn't see much of him in this book.
Overall good first book, world building was good. Can't wait for the second
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