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Horseman’s Harem Saga #1
The Fifth Horseman
No name. No past. One giant future.
The only thing worse than suddenly waking up in a magical house with the insanely gorgeous Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse? Being the Fifth.
With no memory of who I am, where I came from, or what I’m doing here, I’m thrust into a new life with four people who I might want more from than just friendship. But with no past, how can I possibly plan for a future?
The only clue as to who I am? Four different species' magic resides within me—Vampire, Fae, Shifter, and Witch—and between them, I might be the most powerful creature on the planet.
For fuck's sake.
Look out world, Horseman of Magic coming through!
The only thing worse than suddenly waking up in a magical house with the insanely gorgeous Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse? Being the Fifth.
With no memory of who I am, where I came from, or what I’m doing here, I’m thrust into a new life with four people who I might want more from than just friendship. But with no past, how can I possibly plan for a future?
The only clue as to who I am? Four different species' magic resides within me—Vampire, Fae, Shifter, and Witch—and between them, I might be the most powerful creature on the planet.
For fuck's sake.
Look out world, Horseman of Magic coming through!
462 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2020
556 people are currently reading
1463 people want to read
About the author
Freida Kilmari
13 books48 followersFreida Kilmari is an author and editor from the southwest of England, and lives with her fiancé in the peaceful county of Wiltshire. She spends her days editing various works of fiction, and her nights writing her own fantastical pieces. She's the author of Man VS Happiness (book one of the Versus Collection), and the soon-to-be-released Ennéa Vasíleia Universe (a multi-series science-fantasy universe based on her own take of Greek mythology).
To stay up-to-date with the latest news from Freida Kilmari and join in the author fun, follow [Freida Kilmari - Writer and Editor] on Facebook.
Join the magic of the Ennéa Vasíleia Universe, grab free signed copies, stay up-to-date on the latest news and events by joining her reading group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/kilma...
To stay up-to-date with the latest news from Freida Kilmari and join in the author fun, follow [Freida Kilmari - Writer and Editor] on Facebook.
Join the magic of the Ennéa Vasíleia Universe, grab free signed copies, stay up-to-date on the latest news and events by joining her reading group:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/kilma...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
September 3, 2022
Am I missing something here?
I see all of these glowing reviews and I just don't get it. If you've seen any of my highlights with notes, you'll know that I spent most of the book muttering "wtf..." and not in the fun way.
I find this weird disconnect from the impression you get of who the MC is in the prologue to who she is after she wakes up without her memories. As the story progressed, I started to feel like she's just fucking disturbed and needs to be inpatient somewhere with a good therapist and some Haloperidol. She's violent and overreacts to things and then gets all " I just know that nobody likes me, boo hoo" and I was having none of it. The love interests and secondary characters are, frankly, the only thing that saved this book for me. The were unique and interesting and it floors me that the same person wrote them whereas the MC is such a shit show.
The nail in the coffin for me is that this is somehow billed as a story about In addition, there were some old fashioned and frankly harmful gender stereotypes and slut-shaming and a bunch of other stuff (see spoiler highlights) that I just thought were gross and not a good example of what this genre has evolved to be.
I will not be continuing with this series or this author. I granted 1 star because of the uniqueness of the world-building. Would that she had spent similar time on creating a remotely likeable heroine.
I see all of these glowing reviews and I just don't get it. If you've seen any of my highlights with notes, you'll know that I spent most of the book muttering "wtf..." and not in the fun way.
I find this weird disconnect from the impression you get of who the MC is in the prologue to who she is after she wakes up without her memories. As the story progressed, I started to feel like she's just fucking disturbed and needs to be inpatient somewhere with a good therapist and some Haloperidol. She's violent and overreacts to things and then gets all " I just know that nobody likes me, boo hoo" and I was having none of it. The love interests and secondary characters are, frankly, the only thing that saved this book for me. The were unique and interesting and it floors me that the same person wrote them whereas the MC is such a shit show.
The nail in the coffin for me is that this is somehow billed as a story about In addition, there were some old fashioned and frankly harmful gender stereotypes and slut-shaming and a bunch of other stuff (see spoiler highlights) that I just thought were gross and not a good example of what this genre has evolved to be.
I will not be continuing with this series or this author. I granted 1 star because of the uniqueness of the world-building. Would that she had spent similar time on creating a remotely likeable heroine.
November 5, 2020
2.5 Stars
I wanted to this to be so great--and when I started, and saw the length I was super pumped!
But in truth, I was stuck with an MC who ruins things, complains, and cries.
Issue #1--she's willing to be in sexual agony for some piss-poor outdated attempt at morals.
Issue #2--We don't know she is until the end, but it's hardly a reveal as we already know what was going to happen via her "nightmares," that just stopped suddenly and unceremoniously and I forgot about until the end.
Issue #3--all of the horseman are 2000+ years old, and not ONE thought these were flashbacks?!?! Come on!!!
Issue #4--I would murder someone who listened into my every thought.
Fact is, it is an interesting concept, and the gender-bending is cool and has potential, but overall she (MC) isn't compelling. She spends nearly 400 pages worrying about the same exact thing, and the rest of the time she's putting her foot in her mouth and speeding up the potential destruction of the world--even though there is little urgency displayed throughout.
Because I am a glutton for punishment, I will check out the next one. I have hope, kind of!
I wanted to this to be so great--and when I started, and saw the length I was super pumped!
But in truth, I was stuck with an MC who ruins things, complains, and cries.
Issue #1--she's willing to be in sexual agony for some piss-poor outdated attempt at morals.
Issue #2--We don't know she is until the end, but it's hardly a reveal as we already know what was going to happen via her "nightmares," that just stopped suddenly and unceremoniously and I forgot about until the end.
Issue #3--all of the horseman are 2000+ years old, and not ONE thought these were flashbacks?!?! Come on!!!
Issue #4--I would murder someone who listened into my every thought.
Fact is, it is an interesting concept, and the gender-bending is cool and has potential, but overall she (MC) isn't compelling. She spends nearly 400 pages worrying about the same exact thing, and the rest of the time she's putting her foot in her mouth and speeding up the potential destruction of the world--even though there is little urgency displayed throughout.
Because I am a glutton for punishment, I will check out the next one. I have hope, kind of!
December 21, 2020
Very poorly written book. One of the few books I decided not to finish. I really dislike when authors write people who have been around for thousands of years with speech and a maturity level of modern day teenage girls. I would think after thousand of years they would grow up. Also the beginning of the book drug out forever with very little action or plot development thus the reason I did not finish the book.
October 16, 2020
If you're looking for a character driven story with a slow burn plot and awesome LGBTQ+ relationship dynamics, then you'll love this book. Be warned though, it really is a lot of relationship building and character evolution. If you're looking for a fast paced action packed plot, you won't find that with this one.
There is so many wonderful things I have to say about this book!!!! (Side note being how incredible this book cover is?!?!)
Our MC (a tatted Japanese woman) wakes up with no recollection of who she was as a person or where she has wound up. These four beautiful strangers tell her that she has died. Her mortal life has ended, and she has been reborn as a Horseman. What type? Well, they don't know yet. (Cue plot)
As time passes, and our MC heals from her injuries, she begins having dreams/flashbacks of her mortal life. She deals with a lot of internal conflict over the unknowns of her identity. As far as plot goes, this uncovering-who-she-was-as-a-human-and-what-that-means-for-who-she-is-now becomes the main element of the story. There are a few little unexpected twists and turns as our MC uncovers her Horseman powers (in part the fact that she has every type of supernatural in her blood), but ultimately this is alllllll about the characters.
WHICH I LOVED!!!!
The F/F relationship in this book is definitely one of my faves...I've been on the hunt for an awesome F/F dynamic in an RH for a while, and often the ones I've found felt forced or like an after thought. It definitely doesn't feel that way AT ALL in this book. There are so many adorable and sweet moments juxtaposed with the relationship building of the other dudes in the harem.
Do go into this with the expectation of a slow burn though...the rest of the horsemen have been denying their emotions for each other for the entirety of their existences, and while our MC is working to break down those emotional barriers, it's gonna take some time.
That doesn't mean that Mrs. (miss? Ms? whydowehavesomanyoftheseforwomennnn) Frieda Kilmari doesn't give us some creatively juicy and enjoyable sexy scenes though, but it is DEFINITELY a tease. Right to the very end when all I want is more, more, more.
I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just end with my UTTER enjoyment of the sexual and gender fluidity explored within this RH (A sexually fluid, gender shifting MC yessss?!!). It's unlike anything I've read before, and I cannot wait for what comes next.
P.S. I received this as an advanced reader copy from the author. (Thank you, Frieda!) But all these thoughts are of course my own, swayed only by my love of this book and my well wishes to this author. 😊
There is so many wonderful things I have to say about this book!!!! (Side note being how incredible this book cover is?!?!)
Our MC (a tatted Japanese woman) wakes up with no recollection of who she was as a person or where she has wound up. These four beautiful strangers tell her that she has died. Her mortal life has ended, and she has been reborn as a Horseman. What type? Well, they don't know yet. (Cue plot)
As time passes, and our MC heals from her injuries, she begins having dreams/flashbacks of her mortal life. She deals with a lot of internal conflict over the unknowns of her identity. As far as plot goes, this uncovering-who-she-was-as-a-human-and-what-that-means-for-who-she-is-now becomes the main element of the story. There are a few little unexpected twists and turns as our MC uncovers her Horseman powers (in part the fact that she has every type of supernatural in her blood), but ultimately this is alllllll about the characters.
WHICH I LOVED!!!!
The F/F relationship in this book is definitely one of my faves...I've been on the hunt for an awesome F/F dynamic in an RH for a while, and often the ones I've found felt forced or like an after thought. It definitely doesn't feel that way AT ALL in this book. There are so many adorable and sweet moments juxtaposed with the relationship building of the other dudes in the harem.
Do go into this with the expectation of a slow burn though...the rest of the horsemen have been denying their emotions for each other for the entirety of their existences, and while our MC is working to break down those emotional barriers, it's gonna take some time.
That doesn't mean that Mrs. (miss? Ms? whydowehavesomanyoftheseforwomennnn) Frieda Kilmari doesn't give us some creatively juicy and enjoyable sexy scenes though, but it is DEFINITELY a tease. Right to the very end when all I want is more, more, more.
I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just end with my UTTER enjoyment of the sexual and gender fluidity explored within this RH (A sexually fluid, gender shifting MC yessss?!!). It's unlike anything I've read before, and I cannot wait for what comes next.
P.S. I received this as an advanced reader copy from the author. (Thank you, Frieda!) But all these thoughts are of course my own, swayed only by my love of this book and my well wishes to this author. 😊
September 4, 2025
I just could not get behind this.
October 29, 2020
Note: I received this book from the author and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.
The Fifth Horsemen is the first book in the Horseman's Harem Saga and it wasn't like anything I have ever read, I loved it.
This book is very unique, the main character has amnesia and doesn't remember her old life, therefore doesn't remember her own name so for the entire book we only hear people call her by an array of nicknames (and a couple of aliases) because she doesn't have a name. Her not having a name is kinda trippy and adds a certain layer to the story. The mfc starts this story with no past and no sense of self, she struggles with her new reality and what it means to be a Horseman.
So not only is she trying to figure herself out, adapt to a new world, but she is also trying to get to know the only people in the world that she is literally familiar with and only just having met them. It's a lot and anxiety comes into play, she has emotional and mental breakdowns but she picks herself up because she doesn't want to be a let down to the people around her and she knows the world needs her. It really says something about who she is to be dealt with an incredible amount of stuff and not be crippled by it and to adjust as fast as she can for her team.
The team consists of Nine (Famine), Dea (Death), Connie (Conquest), and Arrie (War). Each one of them is unique, with complex personalities and different powers. For the most part, I like them all, even Arrie although he makes things very difficult. They are very lively characters that appeal to me in certain ways but I will say they are a bit pushy when it comes to things but they don't mean any harm.
Something else that makes this story stands out is that while this is classified as a reverse harem, it's really a poly situation going on. Everyone on the team is very flirty and sexually connected like one big relationship. Saying things are complicated is an understatement plus the group is a little emotionally stunted which makes for a very angsty but interesting read. There is also a lot of fluidity in the story and that is something I haven't come across too often and Freida has done an excellent job incorporating it in the story.
I am gonna say that the only reason I didn't give it five stars is that the story started off a little slow (but then exploded) and there were some problems with the schematics other than that it would have gotten five stars. The story is so unique, it's a different take on the Horsemen of the Apocalypse mythology and the reason for their existence. The world-building was great with interesting details and backstories, I especially love the main characters personal library, I am so jealous, I would kill for that library. Then there are the different supernaturals, their powers, how they interact with the world and so much more. Couple that with all the emotional stuff and the drama and the fun stuff makes this a great read the originality just makes all that even better.
I didn't know what to expect when I started the Fifth Horseman but what I got was far better than I could have ever thought. I got mythology, varying supernaturals, originality, crazy politics, steam, romance, a huge mystery, magic, emotional turmoil, angst, and more. This is just the first book in the series and I am already dying for more.
The Fifth Horsemen is the first book in the Horseman's Harem Saga and it wasn't like anything I have ever read, I loved it.
This book is very unique, the main character has amnesia and doesn't remember her old life, therefore doesn't remember her own name so for the entire book we only hear people call her by an array of nicknames (and a couple of aliases) because she doesn't have a name. Her not having a name is kinda trippy and adds a certain layer to the story. The mfc starts this story with no past and no sense of self, she struggles with her new reality and what it means to be a Horseman.
So not only is she trying to figure herself out, adapt to a new world, but she is also trying to get to know the only people in the world that she is literally familiar with and only just having met them. It's a lot and anxiety comes into play, she has emotional and mental breakdowns but she picks herself up because she doesn't want to be a let down to the people around her and she knows the world needs her. It really says something about who she is to be dealt with an incredible amount of stuff and not be crippled by it and to adjust as fast as she can for her team.
The team consists of Nine (Famine), Dea (Death), Connie (Conquest), and Arrie (War). Each one of them is unique, with complex personalities and different powers. For the most part, I like them all, even Arrie although he makes things very difficult. They are very lively characters that appeal to me in certain ways but I will say they are a bit pushy when it comes to things but they don't mean any harm.
Something else that makes this story stands out is that while this is classified as a reverse harem, it's really a poly situation going on. Everyone on the team is very flirty and sexually connected like one big relationship. Saying things are complicated is an understatement plus the group is a little emotionally stunted which makes for a very angsty but interesting read. There is also a lot of fluidity in the story and that is something I haven't come across too often and Freida has done an excellent job incorporating it in the story.
I am gonna say that the only reason I didn't give it five stars is that the story started off a little slow (but then exploded) and there were some problems with the schematics other than that it would have gotten five stars. The story is so unique, it's a different take on the Horsemen of the Apocalypse mythology and the reason for their existence. The world-building was great with interesting details and backstories, I especially love the main characters personal library, I am so jealous, I would kill for that library. Then there are the different supernaturals, their powers, how they interact with the world and so much more. Couple that with all the emotional stuff and the drama and the fun stuff makes this a great read the originality just makes all that even better.
I didn't know what to expect when I started the Fifth Horseman but what I got was far better than I could have ever thought. I got mythology, varying supernaturals, originality, crazy politics, steam, romance, a huge mystery, magic, emotional turmoil, angst, and more. This is just the first book in the series and I am already dying for more.
April 11, 2021
Slower than a snail crossing a 6 lane highway
If you're looking for an engaging story with a little sexual thrill, don't waste your money or time on this drivel. This story lacks a plot entirely. I get these series writers like to drag these things out longer than winter in Alaska, but this story gives the reader nothing to look forward to. It finally gets a little interesting in the last 10% of the book. Also there's no sex between anyone but two of the guys and it's poorly written; in fact the main female character is a tease and has no intention of having sex with any of them. Like all so called harem stories one of the guys is a flaming jerk she feels she must win over because she has to have all of them. On a final note, if this author is an editor, she must have little work because she's terrible at it. Please learn to self edit first. The mistakes are egregious. Don't waste your money or time...unless you have insomnia, it might help put you to sleep.
If you're looking for an engaging story with a little sexual thrill, don't waste your money or time on this drivel. This story lacks a plot entirely. I get these series writers like to drag these things out longer than winter in Alaska, but this story gives the reader nothing to look forward to. It finally gets a little interesting in the last 10% of the book. Also there's no sex between anyone but two of the guys and it's poorly written; in fact the main female character is a tease and has no intention of having sex with any of them. Like all so called harem stories one of the guys is a flaming jerk she feels she must win over because she has to have all of them. On a final note, if this author is an editor, she must have little work because she's terrible at it. Please learn to self edit first. The mistakes are egregious. Don't waste your money or time...unless you have insomnia, it might help put you to sleep.
October 17, 2020
Oh my gosh!!! This character, having forgotten who she was, is struggling to discover who she is becoming. Her journey, in this first full book of the series, is fraught with danger and so very many surprises. You've absolutely got to read this for yourself!!! Breathlessly awaiting book 2 myself.
Darinda S.
Darinda S.
January 4, 2024
Wonderful story, but requires editing
I love this story. I really do. I am invested in every character. But, there definitely needs more editing done. The issues aren't as bad as other books I've read and don't detract overly much. But, it can still be jarring to come across a missing word in a sentence or a n odd sentence fragment.
I love this story. I really do. I am invested in every character. But, there definitely needs more editing done. The issues aren't as bad as other books I've read and don't detract overly much. But, it can still be jarring to come across a missing word in a sentence or a n odd sentence fragment.
May 15, 2021
slow burn
This is a super slow burn. Im not a huge fan of the main character i find her panic n overreactive attitude a lil too much. The storyline however was good n that aspect of it I really enjoyed.
This is a super slow burn. Im not a huge fan of the main character i find her panic n overreactive attitude a lil too much. The storyline however was good n that aspect of it I really enjoyed.
February 7, 2021
Love this! The 5th rocks!
Loved the book! Must read!
Only issues I have are spelling and Magic's (Taylor) height. 2 different heights mentioned one 5'4" and the other 5'6".
Loved the book! Must read!
Only issues I have are spelling and Magic's (Taylor) height. 2 different heights mentioned one 5'4" and the other 5'6".
September 10, 2022
A truly unique book of a brewing magical war where the MC is genderfluid
This is a rather unique book. It’s deeply philosophical, emotional and at the same time unapologetically polyamorous. I’ve never read a sexually fluid or genderfluid book before, so that’s unique, too. It is romantic fantasy (mainly fantasy that would also work even without the romance), but you better forget labels when you read this.
In 2089 humans decide to fight back against all the supernaturals who have united and gained an upper hand. There’s one Horseman of the Apocalypse for each supernatural community but with humans on the war path, they’re going to need a fifth: the Horseman of Magic. A girl dies and is resurrected as the new horseman and she needs to figure out who she is, her magic and the interrelations of the team.
It was a fun story about an imminent magical war that needed not 4 but 5 Horsemen to intervene that made me reconsider myths & gender assumptions. I loved the mysterious house with a mind of its own that adapts to you to suit you perfectly - kind of like a house as a fated mate. And Angel’s library - Belle would be jealous. I liked Nine’s and Angel’s interactions - who knew that as an immortal, Famine would be so caring? For me, Conquest’s 1000-year bow and War’s strategy tale linked the Four Horsemen story with the Greek myths (Artemis also had a bow and Ares had that talent).
As for the romantic interludes - imagine - when someone has been alive for 2k years, it’s understandable that their attitude towards carnal delights transcends the traditional MF human moral concepts. So, no wonder that the untypical conundrum of relationships in that magical house is polyamorous even before the MC’s big discovery. The author handles the complex romance, sexual and gender fluidity admirably & while there is heat in some scenes, it’s not crude. I loved the dedication - to all the oddballs, misfits, and not-fitting-inners.
Recommended for lovers of diverse fantasy series, diverse romantic fantasy and mashup of vampire, fae, shifter & witch folklore.
Trigger warnings: PTSD; graphic violence; prophanity (lots of f this and f that); gender identity issues and MM, FF and MMF scenarios with explicit scenes.
This is a rather unique book. It’s deeply philosophical, emotional and at the same time unapologetically polyamorous. I’ve never read a sexually fluid or genderfluid book before, so that’s unique, too. It is romantic fantasy (mainly fantasy that would also work even without the romance), but you better forget labels when you read this.
In 2089 humans decide to fight back against all the supernaturals who have united and gained an upper hand. There’s one Horseman of the Apocalypse for each supernatural community but with humans on the war path, they’re going to need a fifth: the Horseman of Magic. A girl dies and is resurrected as the new horseman and she needs to figure out who she is, her magic and the interrelations of the team.
It was a fun story about an imminent magical war that needed not 4 but 5 Horsemen to intervene that made me reconsider myths & gender assumptions. I loved the mysterious house with a mind of its own that adapts to you to suit you perfectly - kind of like a house as a fated mate. And Angel’s library - Belle would be jealous. I liked Nine’s and Angel’s interactions - who knew that as an immortal, Famine would be so caring? For me, Conquest’s 1000-year bow and War’s strategy tale linked the Four Horsemen story with the Greek myths (Artemis also had a bow and Ares had that talent).
As for the romantic interludes - imagine - when someone has been alive for 2k years, it’s understandable that their attitude towards carnal delights transcends the traditional MF human moral concepts. So, no wonder that the untypical conundrum of relationships in that magical house is polyamorous even before the MC’s big discovery. The author handles the complex romance, sexual and gender fluidity admirably & while there is heat in some scenes, it’s not crude. I loved the dedication - to all the oddballs, misfits, and not-fitting-inners.
Recommended for lovers of diverse fantasy series, diverse romantic fantasy and mashup of vampire, fae, shifter & witch folklore.
Trigger warnings: PTSD; graphic violence; prophanity (lots of f this and f that); gender identity issues and MM, FF and MMF scenarios with explicit scenes.
April 11, 2023
promising but needs fine tuning
Let’s start with the positives: a fun and interesting plot with some characters that ought to be complex and intriguing to read in future books. The set up of the plot for future books should make for a dramatic and action filled story. The inclusion of a gender-fluid character is great but we aren’t really taking the opportunity to truly explore gender identity and inclusiveness in this book so I am hopeful to see that change in the next books. Definitely a missed opportunity in my opinion but then again, I don’t identify as such so maybe for a gender fluid or trans person it was well done and executed.
Now the negatives: The overall plot, story, and characters are all promising but this does read like a rough draft. Multiple spelling errors, odd scene transitions that were abrupt, vague scenes with minimal description to accurately depict what was occurring. Like I mentioned above, I do think there were some missed opportunities. The main character, whatever her name is (sweetie, Angel, killer depending on which person you ask) is very immature and teeter totters on her emotions much too frequently to the point of contradictory. And the over use of “okaaaaay” and “soooooo” and “ohhhhh” is rather annoying to read and just seems juvenile.
I will probably read the 2nd book and hope for an improvement with the execution and more detailed character development but if it reads like this one, I may end up shelving the series.
Let’s start with the positives: a fun and interesting plot with some characters that ought to be complex and intriguing to read in future books. The set up of the plot for future books should make for a dramatic and action filled story. The inclusion of a gender-fluid character is great but we aren’t really taking the opportunity to truly explore gender identity and inclusiveness in this book so I am hopeful to see that change in the next books. Definitely a missed opportunity in my opinion but then again, I don’t identify as such so maybe for a gender fluid or trans person it was well done and executed.
Now the negatives: The overall plot, story, and characters are all promising but this does read like a rough draft. Multiple spelling errors, odd scene transitions that were abrupt, vague scenes with minimal description to accurately depict what was occurring. Like I mentioned above, I do think there were some missed opportunities. The main character, whatever her name is (sweetie, Angel, killer depending on which person you ask) is very immature and teeter totters on her emotions much too frequently to the point of contradictory. And the over use of “okaaaaay” and “soooooo” and “ohhhhh” is rather annoying to read and just seems juvenile.
I will probably read the 2nd book and hope for an improvement with the execution and more detailed character development but if it reads like this one, I may end up shelving the series.
May 3, 2024
i’m very conflicted on how i feel about this book. do i think it was bad? no, absolutely not. do i think it was incredible? also no. (i’m not structuring this properly just thought-dumping).
this was an interesting experience to say the least. the plot is good. the characters are fine, if a little annoying and immature. the writing was.. not as good as you’d expect for a book like this. i don’t know how to describe it other than “juvenile”, it got better towards the end i think, (or maybe i just got used to it), but for the first 60/70% it was very juvenile/simple.
this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it makes for an easy read and as someone who’s trying to read their way out of a slump that was a good thing.. but for a book like this, with this premise and the nsfw aspects, you’d except something a little more “put together”?
i also thought it was a little annoying how “in-her-head” the main character was about Everything, and some of the world-building felt a little forced/like an info-dump but that’s probably just a preference/perspective.
this book does genuinely have a good plot and a lot of really interesting points and characters development but the writing and immaturity of some of the characters kind of put me off? i didn’t see myself reading the rest of the series until the last 20%(ish) and even now, even though i really want to know what happens and how the characters’ relationships progress i don’t know if i can commit myself to another three books.
this was an interesting experience to say the least. the plot is good. the characters are fine, if a little annoying and immature. the writing was.. not as good as you’d expect for a book like this. i don’t know how to describe it other than “juvenile”, it got better towards the end i think, (or maybe i just got used to it), but for the first 60/70% it was very juvenile/simple.
this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it makes for an easy read and as someone who’s trying to read their way out of a slump that was a good thing.. but for a book like this, with this premise and the nsfw aspects, you’d except something a little more “put together”?
i also thought it was a little annoying how “in-her-head” the main character was about Everything, and some of the world-building felt a little forced/like an info-dump but that’s probably just a preference/perspective.
this book does genuinely have a good plot and a lot of really interesting points and characters development but the writing and immaturity of some of the characters kind of put me off? i didn’t see myself reading the rest of the series until the last 20%(ish) and even now, even though i really want to know what happens and how the characters’ relationships progress i don’t know if i can commit myself to another three books.
July 20, 2022
Apocalypse Wow
Imagine that the world has evolved to where humans and supernatural live together peacefully (most of the time). Witches are very solitary, Fae are frivolous and charming, Vampires pretend to follow the rules but get away with murder and Shifters stay mostly to themselves.
The Supernatural Council is supposedly in charge of keeping the peace but, in fact, is responsible for rules and actions that limit and antagonize every magical faction.
For thousands of years, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have watched over the magical communities on Earth, fighting when necessary to keep the peace.
Suddenly, a new person shows up in the realm of the Horsemen, and she has no memory of who she is, where she came from or what she is doing there. But she, and the Horsemen know she is one of them.
The Fifth Horseman is a sexy, magical, gender-bending fantastical romp of a book. The pace never stops, the action keeps slapping you in the face and the romance and flirting will, well, I'll let you find out for yourself.
Fortunately, as the Horsemen are immortal, just as you get to the end and realize that there is sooo much more to find out, you find that there is a sequel. Thank the Goddess! Highly recommended read.
Imagine that the world has evolved to where humans and supernatural live together peacefully (most of the time). Witches are very solitary, Fae are frivolous and charming, Vampires pretend to follow the rules but get away with murder and Shifters stay mostly to themselves.
The Supernatural Council is supposedly in charge of keeping the peace but, in fact, is responsible for rules and actions that limit and antagonize every magical faction.
For thousands of years, the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse have watched over the magical communities on Earth, fighting when necessary to keep the peace.
Suddenly, a new person shows up in the realm of the Horsemen, and she has no memory of who she is, where she came from or what she is doing there. But she, and the Horsemen know she is one of them.
The Fifth Horseman is a sexy, magical, gender-bending fantastical romp of a book. The pace never stops, the action keeps slapping you in the face and the romance and flirting will, well, I'll let you find out for yourself.
Fortunately, as the Horsemen are immortal, just as you get to the end and realize that there is sooo much more to find out, you find that there is a sequel. Thank the Goddess! Highly recommended read.
April 11, 2023
Nicole
The inner, juvenile ramblings of this supposed fifth Horseman prevents me from liking this book. There is lesbian and man on man love. Fine. The main character turns into a vampire, animals, a man all the things, fine. Whenever the author starts talking about fluidity I'm done. I would have liked to know why these powerful horseman all seem lazy. Why did the author ignore arrie? How did the main character know the vampire Prince? I was interested in the town and the magical house they live in. This is very g rated romance. You have some sex angst towards the end. The main character would find out some bad news, or couldn't perform a certain power and she would storm off and then go take a nap, do what?!?! Then after said nap, she would just eat and then do research in her library. This was too young adult for me I guess. Sadly, I will not be continuing on with this series.
The inner, juvenile ramblings of this supposed fifth Horseman prevents me from liking this book. There is lesbian and man on man love. Fine. The main character turns into a vampire, animals, a man all the things, fine. Whenever the author starts talking about fluidity I'm done. I would have liked to know why these powerful horseman all seem lazy. Why did the author ignore arrie? How did the main character know the vampire Prince? I was interested in the town and the magical house they live in. This is very g rated romance. You have some sex angst towards the end. The main character would find out some bad news, or couldn't perform a certain power and she would storm off and then go take a nap, do what?!?! Then after said nap, she would just eat and then do research in her library. This was too young adult for me I guess. Sadly, I will not be continuing on with this series.
August 3, 2021
No
This is a slow burn. No, that's not clear enough. This is a very slow burn. A very, very slow burn. Not even a burn. There is no heat in this book. The main character kisses a few times. Boring. There are four other characters in this book and they aren't getting it on either. There are two short, minimal scenes with the same two people in this whole book. I wouldn't be so annoyed by that if the story made any sense but there is no consistency. They live on an island with other people. At one point, we learn the gardener is human but later we learn there are no humans on the island. Huh? What happened to the gardener? Also, the main character never remembers anything including her name. We still don't know the main character's name at the end of this book and I have ceased to care. She is useless. She cries every other page.
This is a slow burn. No, that's not clear enough. This is a very slow burn. A very, very slow burn. Not even a burn. There is no heat in this book. The main character kisses a few times. Boring. There are four other characters in this book and they aren't getting it on either. There are two short, minimal scenes with the same two people in this whole book. I wouldn't be so annoyed by that if the story made any sense but there is no consistency. They live on an island with other people. At one point, we learn the gardener is human but later we learn there are no humans on the island. Huh? What happened to the gardener? Also, the main character never remembers anything including her name. We still don't know the main character's name at the end of this book and I have ceased to care. She is useless. She cries every other page.
March 22, 2022
I honestly didn't like the book. The only reason i gave it 2 starts and not 1 is Dae and Nine, the only characters i liked.
But the book was bad. It was badly written, the world building was full of plot holes. The reveals that were supposed to be shocking weren't beacuse they are in the description of the book or you can tell through her nightmares.
I didn't like Arrie, he's an asshole, or the MC. She made some comments that felt biphobic, and she was very slut shamey and gave "i'm not like other girls" vibes.
The MC is genderfluid but the way gender fluidity was tackled seemd tacktless.
Also, the comment about the Witch HQ being in South Africa really annoyed me. It's not weird. It's the southern hemisphere, not another dimension.
I don't know if i'll read the rest of the saga. If i do it's because i'm a masochist.
I got a review copy from Story Origin.
But the book was bad. It was badly written, the world building was full of plot holes. The reveals that were supposed to be shocking weren't beacuse they are in the description of the book or you can tell through her nightmares.
I didn't like Arrie, he's an asshole, or the MC. She made some comments that felt biphobic, and she was very slut shamey and gave "i'm not like other girls" vibes.
The MC is genderfluid but the way gender fluidity was tackled seemd tacktless.
Also, the comment about the Witch HQ being in South Africa really annoyed me. It's not weird. It's the southern hemisphere, not another dimension.
I don't know if i'll read the rest of the saga. If i do it's because i'm a masochist.
I got a review copy from Story Origin.
June 5, 2025
This had so much potential
This seems like AI - it has a clear path and a clear outline for who the characters are and what scenes should follow to lead into the next. The problem is the transition. It's sudden and abrupt. Grammar errors don't bother me often because my mind automatically corrects them, but the flow of the story seems cynical and robotic. She just accepts that she doesn't know who she is, accepts the unexplained nightmares, accepts that she's desperate to save the world by being surrounded by people she's desperate to fuck but knows little to nothing about then. But then in the next second, she's hating herself and throwing pity parties to having panic attacks. It gives me whiplash, and not in the humane sense, but in the sense that the transition between one scene and the next doesn't make sense and it seems rushed.
This seems like AI - it has a clear path and a clear outline for who the characters are and what scenes should follow to lead into the next. The problem is the transition. It's sudden and abrupt. Grammar errors don't bother me often because my mind automatically corrects them, but the flow of the story seems cynical and robotic. She just accepts that she doesn't know who she is, accepts the unexplained nightmares, accepts that she's desperate to save the world by being surrounded by people she's desperate to fuck but knows little to nothing about then. But then in the next second, she's hating herself and throwing pity parties to having panic attacks. It gives me whiplash, and not in the humane sense, but in the sense that the transition between one scene and the next doesn't make sense and it seems rushed.
February 10, 2021
I appreciate this book for being well written but it wasn't for me - there are so many feelings in this book, every character has a lot of feelings (often miscommunicated) and emote all over the place while very little action (in the bedroom or otherwise takes place).
You may or may not be able to tell from this review that I'm not a fan of lots of feelings. I'm definitely more of the 'stab anyone who upsets you' kinda gal!
Our unnamed heroine has to learn the extent of her powers and find where she fits in the pantheon of Horsemen now that she's been called forth as number 5... and she has so many feelings about it. So. Many.
(Again: I appreciate that this is a good book, just not for people with the emotional repertoire of a mushroom)
You may or may not be able to tell from this review that I'm not a fan of lots of feelings. I'm definitely more of the 'stab anyone who upsets you' kinda gal!
Our unnamed heroine has to learn the extent of her powers and find where she fits in the pantheon of Horsemen now that she's been called forth as number 5... and she has so many feelings about it. So. Many.
(Again: I appreciate that this is a good book, just not for people with the emotional repertoire of a mushroom)
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February 14, 2024i think there was a way that this story could’ve been delivered thats shorter straightforward and less slow. i didn’t need to be there every single time the main character had a mental breakdown. also why did all of this happen in month? shes spiralling about her feelings for these ppl week one? girl may be worry about idk adjusting to your circumstance?
i think the concept is cool. the characters are okay. very frustrating and go in circle but generally they are okay. the world building happens through convo which i don’t like. i still have no answers which is why i’m cont.
i’ll start on book to see if i’m still feeling it.
i think the concept is cool. the characters are okay. very frustrating and go in circle but generally they are okay. the world building happens through convo which i don’t like. i still have no answers which is why i’m cont.
i’ll start on book to see if i’m still feeling it.
April 16, 2024
I really wanted this to be a great read as it definitely sounded promising - but 3/4 way through the book there still wasn’t a clear direction of plot or intention. The entire time you were exposed to the internal discussions and thoughts of the MFC which where very repetitive ramblings, and made the MFC sound weak, insecure and basically an air head. While i usually like the transformation of a weakish MFC into a badass - this just wasn’t cutting it. After about the 1000th time she monologues about ‘casual relationships’ when no one else is literally talking about it, or forcing anything - i was done.
February 20, 2021
Hard to read
This was a hard rating. The storyline has promise but the main character is very annoying. I get she is sad and annoyed at not knowing who she is or was but every single chapter she is complaining about something and blaming the world. It just seems they could have sped it up a bit and got on with it to have some happiness in there. I love to read sad books but she is just whiny and selfish.
This was a hard rating. The storyline has promise but the main character is very annoying. I get she is sad and annoyed at not knowing who she is or was but every single chapter she is complaining about something and blaming the world. It just seems they could have sped it up a bit and got on with it to have some happiness in there. I love to read sad books but she is just whiny and selfish.
March 6, 2021
I liked this story - It was interesting to learn along with this unnamed person. I loved the characters of the Horsemen and I enjoyed the slow burn friendship building.
This story follows the birth of the fifth horseman of the apocalypse - living in this fantastical realm outside of Earth with the other four horsemen. It's an interesting twist and I really enjoyed reading it.
I'm looking forward to reading the next installment. I recommend taking a read.
This story follows the birth of the fifth horseman of the apocalypse - living in this fantastical realm outside of Earth with the other four horsemen. It's an interesting twist and I really enjoyed reading it.
I'm looking forward to reading the next installment. I recommend taking a read.
January 22, 2023
What a dynamic turn of events
Who would of thought that a Horsemen book could be so fascinating. So the 4 needs a 5th to help and in steps a girl with powers none of them can match. What happens next is a roller coaster of emotions, magic and mayhem the likes to which I haven't read in a long time.
This was a definite page turner, one I didn't want to put down. I'm on my way to the next. Hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did.
Who would of thought that a Horsemen book could be so fascinating. So the 4 needs a 5th to help and in steps a girl with powers none of them can match. What happens next is a roller coaster of emotions, magic and mayhem the likes to which I haven't read in a long time.
This was a definite page turner, one I didn't want to put down. I'm on my way to the next. Hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did.
September 2, 2024
I really loved the start of this book. I loved all the horsemen and the plot and the world building. But as the book went on, about halfway through, I realized I absolutely hate the fmc. She’s annoying, makes everything about herself, and complicates polyamorous relationships much more than they actually are. She was so unlikable I started skimming the book at about 80% through. I don’t think I’ll continue the series bc it ended with one of her freak outs
November 8, 2020
Awesome first book!
This series promises an intriguing storyline. The MC’s development was great, cannot wait to read the next book! Thoroughly enjoyed this book, although there are quite a few editorial slip ups. Other than that highly recommend this slow burn, gender fluid, LGBTQ+ reverse harem to all of those looking for a different take on a why choose fantasy romance.
This series promises an intriguing storyline. The MC’s development was great, cannot wait to read the next book! Thoroughly enjoyed this book, although there are quite a few editorial slip ups. Other than that highly recommend this slow burn, gender fluid, LGBTQ+ reverse harem to all of those looking for a different take on a why choose fantasy romance.
August 8, 2021
Great read
I enjoyed this book. My 1st book about the 4 horseman of the Apocalypse. The main character wakes up in a strange place surrounded by 4 people. She has no memories about who she is or about her life. With the help of the 4 people she comes to understand who is is going to become.
I enjoyed this book. My 1st book about the 4 horseman of the Apocalypse. The main character wakes up in a strange place surrounded by 4 people. She has no memories about who she is or about her life. With the help of the 4 people she comes to understand who is is going to become.
October 25, 2023
the book has two different vibes
The first part of the book goes great, then it all kind of falls apart. It’s very angsty, and the MC is very flipfloppy. There is a lot of yelling for no reason (she yelled because he took her from a dangerous situation and she wanted answers - she could have just contacted the guy later). I hope the 2nd book gets better.
The first part of the book goes great, then it all kind of falls apart. It’s very angsty, and the MC is very flipfloppy. There is a lot of yelling for no reason (she yelled because he took her from a dangerous situation and she wanted answers - she could have just contacted the guy later). I hope the 2nd book gets better.
October 25, 2023
5/5 stars
This book was so freaking good!!! I have never read a book that is like this, but I was hooked the whole time! We all know how I am with series but I really feel that I want to move onto the next book. Who knows if I will actually finish it, but I want to move onto the next book right now!
This book was so freaking good!!! I have never read a book that is like this, but I was hooked the whole time! We all know how I am with series but I really feel that I want to move onto the next book. Who knows if I will actually finish it, but I want to move onto the next book right now!
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