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The Voodoo Trials have been evoked. One student from each College will be called.

Kalfu has taken a host. Lives have been lost. Most blame Annabelle. If the Academy—and all of Vilokan—is going to stand against Kalfu they must find a way to unite. Headmistress Erzulie has evoked the Voodoo Trials. A new High Hougan or Mambo must be chosen to unite the Academy’s five colleges. But when Annabelle discovers the true purpose of the Trials she must make an impossible choice—either compete to win, and divide Vilokan further, or risk unleashing an evil that will destroy the Voodoo world from within.

182 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 4, 2020

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About the author

Theophilus Monroe

144 books299 followers
Theophilus Monroe is a fantasy author with a knack for real-life characters whose supernatural experiences speak to the pangs of ordinary life. After earning his Ph.D. in Theology, he decided that academic treatises that no one will read (beyond other academics) was a dull way to spend his life. So, he began using his background in religious studies to create new worlds and forms of magic-informed by religious myths, ancient and modern-that would intrigue readers, inspire imaginations, and speak to real-world problems in fantastical ways.

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5 stars
63 (58%)
4 stars
29 (26%)
3 stars
14 (12%)
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2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews76 followers
June 16, 2020
ONE THRILLING AVALANCHE OF CHAOS!!!
Holy hell batman! Theophilus raised the bar on this jaw dropping, mind blowing bombshell, ramping up the stakes and keeping it real, blasting this baby to life beautifully. She brought out the big guns, locked and loaded, laying out this thrilling storyline and gripping plot, wrapping this baby up seamlessly. A surging vortex of vexing mishaps and surprising circumstances, along with the intimidating trials and challenging tribulations, exposing the startling twists and stunning turns, put our characters through their paces. Havoc runs rampant and animosity is rife, rolling out the drama, turmoil, deception, intrigue, danger, spiraling suspense and intense situations, along with a double dose of moxie and quick wit while dodging deadly intents, you have one intoxicating masterpiece. Bracing the burdens and towing the line, delivering this pulse racing, heart pounding, adrenaline pumping, page flipping, block busting dynamo, propelling this gem to a whole new level. The dynamics and presentation in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so deep you feel everything the characters feel one page at a time. The characters are complex and genuine with traits and qualities that add depth and realism that blend and flow, transforming into amazing personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Fantastic job Theophilus, thanks for sharing this lil' fella with us.
Profile Image for Katheyer.
1,557 reviews25 followers
June 9, 2020
“Death Rites” the third installment in the “Gates of Eden: The Voodoo Legacy Series” by Theophilus Monroe is a wonderful addiction to series, and easily the most complex plot until now.

After Kalfu’s last attack the Academy is falling apart, and the majority puts the blame on Annabelle. Nevertheless, to stand a chance to defeat Kalfu, and freed the hostage, they need to present an unite front. Headmistress Erzulie evokes the Voodoo Trials to choose a new Mambo: each college should designate a student to participate. But the Voodoo Trials are not what they appear and, as Annabelle discover the truth, she is forced to decide between two impossible choices, fully aware that the danger of utterly destruction of the Voodoo world itself lies in the balance.

The combo Annabelle & Isabelle (her soul fused companion) is very strong main character: determined, fierce, loyal and courageous, a real female role model and able to display a plethora of emotions that transcend the written text and connect directly with the reader. The secondary characters, both god and evil offer a perfect counterbalance to the combo Anna/Isa(belle).

Theophilus Monroe’s blend of voodoo, magic, fantasy, mystery and romance is a unique addiction to the genre. The story is very well crafted, fast-paced, action-filled, setting in a fully realistic environment in where the fantasy elements serve to highlight the credibility of the story. The use of VooDoo lore is carefully dosed, allowing a good overview on the matter without overwhelming the lay reader with unnecessary data, a difficult task to master and the very denotator of a skilled author.

After this extraordinary third book I can hardly wait to read the next installment in the series.
Profile Image for Witch-at-Heart .
1,588 reviews23 followers
June 15, 2020
I truly enjoyed Death Rites the MC is fantastic and I was easily able to connect with this character!

This is the third installment in the “Gates of Eden: The Voodoo Legacy Series” I did not read the first two books and this is a complex story-line so I would recommend starting at the beginning of the series for the best reading experience. I must say I found Annabelle & Isabelle (her soul fused companion) to be a fascinating character and strong MC and the complex personality and range of motions was very well done and the other characters are also rich and detailed and make the story-line flow well as it revolves around Anna/Isa(belle).


This book was very unique for me as I don't believe I have read any other series that focuses on blending voodoo, magic, and fantasy so I really loved that aspect it felt original and captivating. The story is very well written, fast-paced, action-filled, and the world-building felt spot on making the story flow and feel realistic in a fantasy setting.

This extraordinary third book made me want to catch up on what I missed in the first two installments and I look forward to the next book in the series.

I received this book from Booksprout for an honest review!
Profile Image for Korra II Allison Baskerville.
261 reviews9 followers
April 20, 2025
Audiobook only: This is a quick DNF from me. I tried to listen to book 1, (and eventually 2 and 3) to refresh my memory of this series. But this narrator is fucking atrocious. Absolutely fucking insufferable.

In the span of a couple of sentences in book 3, she said “Farmiliar”, and then “Familiarity”. If you’re doing to pronounce a word improperly or properly, at least be fucking consistent about it!

Her characters all sound the same, which is the same as her scene-setting voice. She occasionally tries to emote, or change her vocal inflection, but it’s such a poor attempt, it doesn’t help anything. The line “I said, sarcastically” being preceded by the same tone of voice she reads every other line in, same with supposed shouting, and so on.

I’m not listening to hours upon hours of this godawful narration. I will say, I love the Gates of Eden Literary Universe. I eventually want to purchase the entire physical set, ’cause I’ve never heard a literary universe that’s been done so fucking dirty by shit narrators as this one has.

NOTE: This copy was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
1,654 reviews33 followers
February 1, 2022
This is an absolutely brilliant read! Death Rites is the third book in the Gates of Eden: The Voodoo Legacy series. Theophilus Monroe is one of the most talented authors I have read. He has a way of developing several series all at the same time, and you will find yourself meeting characters that you have fallen in love with in another series, and you will be reading a scenario from another series, and you are beginning to wonder is this really happening or are you just hanging on to the edge of chair and falling into another one of Monroe’s twists and turns so you better just hang on for the ride. In this case you find that you are jumping on the fast train with Annabelle Mulledy. Annabelle is a snarky badass heroine with an attitude! This novel pulled me in from beginning and held my attention until the very end. The narrator just would not let me go. The world building is detailed and imaginative. This novel has strong, well developed characters and an interesting story line that keeps you turning the page after page. I recommend this novel and would read more novels by this author. I received this novel from StoryOrigin. This is my true and honest review.
Profile Image for Lana.
2,946 reviews62 followers
January 17, 2025
Headmistress Erzulie has evoked the voodoo trials, and every college is expected to send a student representative to participate. Kalfu had taken a host, and he had to be stopped no matter what. The trials were supposed to elect a new High Hougan or Mambo, and this person in turn would lead the academy. However Annabelle suspected that Erzulie had something up her sleeve, and she knew she had to stop whatever was being planned. Will she be able to take the right action or will her actions continue to divide Vilkolan even further. The voodoo world was facing a massive risk of being torn apart. I love this very exciting book, the trials are like The Hunger Games only darker, as magic even dark magic is used, and the God's themselves are using the students as their pawns in their own game for power. I love the role Pauli plays, he is a fun character who manages to put himself out there and risk his own life many a time to save Annabelle's. He is the best side-kick she could have ever had and together they are insurmountable, with Beli and Pauli's rainbows close at hand. Our kick-ass heroine continues to fight back.
Profile Image for DeeDeeWReads.
1,273 reviews14 followers
Read
February 12, 2022
Once again, Theophilus has grabbed me with a series and I can't stop. This is book 3 of the Voodoo Legacy, which means the 'end' of Annabelle's story is coming to an end. Tho we know it's not the end of her as she and all of Theo's characters mix and meld in the Theo universe.

Nico has passed, and it's time for his Death Rites to be performed. A competition is proposed with great rewards and gifts. Annabelle finds herself nominated for her 'school'. Many ups and downs come and as always an ending that will make you want more.

Oh Sydney Sydney.... Your narrations as Annabelle and crew is UHMAZING. I can't get enough of your awesomeness and I hope you continue to narrate for sweet Theophilus and his books.

If you've read the books, that's ALL good, but you must LISTEN to the narration also.

Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,202 reviews7 followers
June 3, 2020
I freaking love this series! Annabelle and her soul fused spirit Isabelle are badmambajambas. Yes, you read that right. They kick butts and i love it. I love how fierce, strong-willed, determined, good natured, loyal, even humble they are. The range of emotions they go through make them leap off the pages and feel real. Their friends are the perfect counter balance to them too. This book ramps up the dealings with Kalfu and Mercy and several others. We meet new characters and lose some and makes for one intense story. Might I say holy wow on that end. Give me more! I volunteered to read this book via Booksprout.
Profile Image for Christina Luberts.
2,887 reviews7 followers
June 20, 2020
The book will keep you reading. WE have action, suspense, and more. We learn more about the Loas, vampires and more about her parents. This book would not be good with out Paulie, got to love his character. Annabelle would not be the same without him. Now we are going into trials, but will Annabelle be able to win to stop the headmistress. Can she save everyone? Who can she really trust? You do need to read the books before this one to really understand what is going on. So get the series and enjoy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Andra Shaw.
1,437 reviews11 followers
June 16, 2020
Death Rites is not as intensely enthralling as the previous book in this series. However, it was engaging. The action and intrigue in this book are in the form of magical or should I say voodoo type rituals. There is also a significant amount of drama and humor that keep you engaged. The characters also keep you engaged as they are quite likable and draw you into their world. It will be interesting to see how this series carries on in future installments.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,553 reviews11 followers
June 21, 2020
Good Voodoo bad Voodoo all roads lead to Kalfu and everybody is ready to blame Annabelle i mean so everything started to go to crap when she had her first run in with Kalfu but really it was bound to happen everybody wants power and someone is obviously helping Kalfu. And that's only part of the problem the trials the emotional upheaval so who will win who will become the Mombo queen who will come out on top.


I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review.

Profile Image for blueyed_cntry_girl.
1,593 reviews4 followers
June 16, 2020
WOW! I love how Annabelle and Isabelle’s (her soul) characters have grown. They are determined, loyal, humble (great trait to have), and so much more. This series just gets more exciting as it’s goes and is so intense. It’s one of those series where you just keep turning the pages and don’t realize how much you’ve read until your done. Who’s doin all the killings?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carlynne Toomey.
464 reviews4 followers
June 19, 2020
This is the third installment in the Gates of Eden: Voodoo Legacy series and it is every bit as good as the first two. The characters are complex and well developed. They are also likeable, which adds to the enjoyment of the story. I'm really big on characters in books and always focus more on them than any other part of the story. However, in this book, so much more is involved and it all ties in together really well. I highly recommend this whole series!
Profile Image for Mel.
272 reviews6 followers
October 9, 2021
Another triumph! I was so consumed by its action I really couldn't put it down and finished the book in just a few hours! It seems like everything is going wrong and they can't stop Kalfu, but Marie Laveau has a few surprises in store and things work out ok in the end. Again, I couldn't stop reading when I got to the end of the book, and had to carry straight on into the next book! I can't wait to see what happens next!!
Profile Image for Erica Callahan.
113 reviews6 followers
June 27, 2023
Headmistress Erzulie has called for the Trials in the name of Nico. Annabelle and her friends quickly discover that there is something very sinister going on instead. She finds a book that they believe is supposed to help, but may instead be the catalyst to a fatal prophesy. Now Annabelle and her friends must find a way to save not only Vilokan but the world.

The ending was very surprising. Loved it!
Profile Image for Tahnia Ross.
2,184 reviews9 followers
August 20, 2023
I laughed a lot at the interactions between Annabelle and Pauli. Five students, each from a different aspect of the Academy, are chosen to participate in three trials to honor the late Nico. Annabelle is chosen by Marie Laveau and, using Marie's book "Death Rites", she, Mikah, and Pauli figure out how to pass the first trial. This story is full of various kinds of action and includes moments of romance, ending with a cliffhanger. Very highly recommended.
Profile Image for Scarolet Ellis.
7,445 reviews54 followers
June 23, 2020
Death Rites by Theophilus Monroe is an awesome story that I have read. This is book number three out of five in this awesome series that I have been hooked on since book number one. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about fantasy and horror.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,416 reviews
June 24, 2020
This is book 3 of the Gates of Eden: The Voodoo Legacy series. This is a wonderful series and I loved book 3. The story is well written and flows well. The characters are likable and well developed. I love the book covers. I would definitely recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Billie.
5,794 reviews72 followers
June 29, 2020
What an absolutely brilliant continuation of this thrilling series.
I love the well fleshed out characters and the dynamics between them.
The plot and story line were extremely well written and flowed easily.
This series just gets better with each book.
I can't wait to read what the author brings out next!

I received an ARC from booksprout and this is my honest voluntary review.
Profile Image for Dallass.
2,505 reviews
January 8, 2021
Damn. Not the last book 😩

I enjoyed this much more than the second story (I think the vampire plot was bogging it down). Annabelle was a lot more focused - except for the crucial moments when she just couldn’t anymore - and there were , of course, more surprise allies and betrayals. Very fast read, definitely going on to book four after this ending.

3.5 stars ⭐️
761 reviews6 followers
May 10, 2021
Awesome

This story had more growth for Annabelle and a really interesting plotline with some great twists. Though crap is still happening, I felt much more hopeful at the end of this book! I don't know that I entirely trust Oggie, but am hoping for good things for Annabelle on that front. Can't wait to read the next one!
Profile Image for Lexi.
1,046 reviews20 followers
April 10, 2022
Annabelle still has so much to deal with and learn. She’s grew a lot in this book which was good. Kalfu is determined to take over and doesn’t want to back down. Annabelle has to figure out how to save her friends and how to fix the things that are wrong. The ending makes me want the next book really badly. I enjoy getting to know these characters and find out even more about this world.
Profile Image for Maria Barra.
211 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2022
Death Rites

omg im so happy that Pauli is back. I thought he was a goner in the last book. out of all the characters he's by far my favorite then of course it's Annabelle and Isabel. this book here had me laughing so much. I did get a bit heart broken when Ben died. know that was sad and all so wrong. but at least he's okay with it. I can't wait to start the next book.
256 reviews
May 6, 2022
This was a great book. Loved storyline. The characters are quite colorful and the narrator does a good job bringing them to life. Each one has their own flavor by the narrator and makes listening enjoyable. The world building is done right by author and the narrator has done a good job expressing that also. I received a promo code for this audiobook and this is my honest review.
776 reviews2 followers
May 30, 2023
This a very good book, would be even better with a change in narrator. I’m afraid this lady comes out very childlike, I think these characters are anything but that. The plot and story line were extremely well written. This series just gets better with each book. I can't wait to read what the author brings out next. Highly recommended listen.
Profile Image for Donna.
905 reviews14 followers
November 6, 2023
Death Rites (The Voodoo Legacy #3) by Theophilus Monroe. In this book the Voodoo Trials have been evoked. One student from each College will be called. When Annabelle discovers the true purpose of the trials she must make an impossible choice-compete to win or risk unleashing an evil that may destroy the Voodoo world from within. What will she choose?
184 reviews8 followers
June 12, 2020
This was a great addition to this awesome series, I am an Honest ARC reviewer ,and recommend this book to everyone. The Faculty , The Devil ??, And the Tests . Who will win ? The Killings are done by who ??
5,452 reviews32 followers
June 15, 2020
The story line was good, the character work was great and the book had a smooth flow to it. This was a great addition to the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sherry Vaughan.
847 reviews10 followers
July 16, 2020
Unexpected

A challenge for supremacy, a mysterious book, and an evil unprecedented in modern times. That's what Annabelle must face. Kalfu is determined to rule Vilokan and our heroine is equally determined that he won't. A first rate story with an unexpected ending.
657 reviews1 follower
March 8, 2021
I love this seriex

Annabelle is still training but now she has a new problem . The Trails have been evoked and one representative from each college will participate. If course all is not what it seems. I can't wait to read more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews