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Temple of Vengeance #1
Raven Queen, Arise
Justice is dead. Long live Vengeance.
Under the banner of truce during the holy Spring Festa, four Chosen priests of the war god brutalized me, cut my throat, and dumped my naked corpse in a mass grave.
They plan to do the same to my entire clan.
The priests of the Hierarchy believed that was the end of me.
But Death loves me. And he's giving me a second shot.
There's a price I'll need to pay, of course. Later. I have a plan for that, too.
First, I have unfinished business with my murderers. I need to save my family and protect my clan. And I burn for revenge. I'll kill the four that took my life and threatened those I love.
They won't die easy.
Warning: Raven Queen, Arise is a dark epic fantasy thriller. It contains material some people might find objectionable or triggering or evil. If you have issues with graphic combat, brutal torture, explicit sex, religious satire, polyamory, queer relationships, ménage love scenes, or sexual violence, this might not be the book for you. Specific details can be found here: davereed.me/raven-queen-arise/
Raven Queen, Arise is:
+ All the high fantasy swords and sorcery of Michael Moorcock's Elric Saga
+ More brutal than George R. R. Martin's Song of Ice & Fire and Game of Thrones
+ Darker than Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn Saga and as epic as his Stormlight Archive
+ Eldritch magic and monsters as inexplicable and arcane as Andrzej Sapkowski's The Witcher Saga
+ More necromancy, murder, and mayhem than all of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings books combined
Under the banner of truce during the holy Spring Festa, four Chosen priests of the war god brutalized me, cut my throat, and dumped my naked corpse in a mass grave.
They plan to do the same to my entire clan.
The priests of the Hierarchy believed that was the end of me.
But Death loves me. And he's giving me a second shot.
There's a price I'll need to pay, of course. Later. I have a plan for that, too.
First, I have unfinished business with my murderers. I need to save my family and protect my clan. And I burn for revenge. I'll kill the four that took my life and threatened those I love.
They won't die easy.
Warning: Raven Queen, Arise is a dark epic fantasy thriller. It contains material some people might find objectionable or triggering or evil. If you have issues with graphic combat, brutal torture, explicit sex, religious satire, polyamory, queer relationships, ménage love scenes, or sexual violence, this might not be the book for you. Specific details can be found here: davereed.me/raven-queen-arise/
Raven Queen, Arise is:
+ All the high fantasy swords and sorcery of Michael Moorcock's Elric Saga
+ More brutal than George R. R. Martin's Song of Ice & Fire and Game of Thrones
+ Darker than Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn Saga and as epic as his Stormlight Archive
+ Eldritch magic and monsters as inexplicable and arcane as Andrzej Sapkowski's The Witcher Saga
+ More necromancy, murder, and mayhem than all of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings books combined
570 pages, ebook
First published October 1, 2021
59 people are currently reading
3913 people want to read
About the author
Dave Reed
6 books86 followersDave Reed makes monsters. Beautiful monsters. Terrifying monsters. Monsters that are doing their best. Monsters with problems. Monsters just like you. Novels full of monsters of all kinds. Find out more on a regular basis: https://davereed.me/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 28, 2021
I loved this book! I foolishly started reading it on a Tuesday night thinking I'd read a bit and then put it down and function like a normal person the next day and then read a bit more, like how I usually consume books. Nope. I had to take time off work the next day and then stay up until 3 am to finish it because I LITERALLY COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. So, warning for future readers, plan ahead.
Things I loved about this book:
- amazingly well written strong female protagonist
- unique mythology, lore, and magic
- perfect blend of dark and gritty and sexy and steamy
- lots of fun surprises that kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through
Things I didn't love about this book:
- it ends
- the next book in the series isn't done yet and I NEED MORE
Things I loved about this book:
- amazingly well written strong female protagonist
- unique mythology, lore, and magic
- perfect blend of dark and gritty and sexy and steamy
- lots of fun surprises that kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through
Things I didn't love about this book:
- it ends
- the next book in the series isn't done yet and I NEED MORE
October 27, 2021
This story was definitely interesting to read. It has unique mythology, incredible writing and a captivating main character. I really enjoyed watching The Raven Queen become who she was meant to be. However, I’m a little confused by how quickly she did. It felt like there wasn’t much acceptance with her new role and just an immediate transition. In fact, I’m still a little confused by a couple of other things as well. One of which is how the God of Death began to love her. That all seemed very instantaneous. I will not be mentioning the rest of the confusing moments here in case it is a potential spoiler.
I absolutely loved the twist that was put on the Gods and Goddesses in this mythology. It was a very entertaining idea that I will be thinking about for days. It’s not something I’ve seen done before, which makes me like this story even more.
This story was almost like a horror story in the beginning, which makes it perfect for spooky season. There’s violence, gore and horror themed in this book. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes unique mythology and a strong female character.
(I received a free ebook arc of this book on NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.)
I absolutely loved the twist that was put on the Gods and Goddesses in this mythology. It was a very entertaining idea that I will be thinking about for days. It’s not something I’ve seen done before, which makes me like this story even more.
This story was almost like a horror story in the beginning, which makes it perfect for spooky season. There’s violence, gore and horror themed in this book. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes unique mythology and a strong female character.
(I received a free ebook arc of this book on NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.)
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November 3, 2021DNFd. Just couldn’t get into this one.
dnf
November 6, 2025dnf
The book's premise had such huge potential.
I have realised that villain arcs or revenge plots don't interest me. It was unfortunate, because the world-building, the concept of death, angels and goddess' was fun but the characters were underdeveloped and the plot was confusing.
I think maybe further editing would make this a decent story for people who love villain origin stories or feminine rage in their fantasy books.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book's premise had such huge potential.
I have realised that villain arcs or revenge plots don't interest me. It was unfortunate, because the world-building, the concept of death, angels and goddess' was fun but the characters were underdeveloped and the plot was confusing.
I think maybe further editing would make this a decent story for people who love villain origin stories or feminine rage in their fantasy books.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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December 10, 2023
I listened to the audiobook and it was fantastic! The narrator brought the story to life and I got to hear this epic tale of revenge, lust, and death and the makings of a goddess. Absolutely stunning!!
January 26, 2022
Here's the thing. At first, I was really into this. The concept behind the gods, goddesses, chosen souls, and forbidden magic were all very interesting. Also at first, Illyria reminded me so much of the female MCs from G.A. Aiken....just...dumber. A warrior to her core, she was always a fight first never ask questions kind of girl. Which I think is what, as the story progressed, had me disliking her more and more. She rushed into everything seemingly without thinking anything over and when someone wanted to explain things, she was too impatient to listen. Then got mad at them for not telling her everything.
The story in general was really good. Often times violent and occasionally disturbing. Illyria has dreams of becoming someone important who helps the people and doles out justice. She's a devote follower of her chosen god and can't wait to serve him. So imagine her surprise when her entire peoples are ambushed at what should have been a peaceful gathering and her own family is offered up in forbidden rituals to the gods. Oh, and she gets herself killed trying to save them. But unbeknownst to Illyria, she has caught the attention and affection of the god of death (and numerous other titles). So instead of being claimed by the god she had dedicated her life to, she finds herself amongst the shades of the unclaimed being courted by Z'nnek.
At this point, all Illyria cares about is getting justice for her family and her clan. So she makes a deal with Z'nnek to be returned to her (dead) body so she can make those responsible pay. Her quest for vengeance has her finding herself the center of attention for the high gods and some of the small gods. Her enemies are the chosen of the high gods so she finds herself walking a very fine line of starting another god war. But nothing will stop her as she carves her bloody path.
One of Z'nnek's courting gifts was giving Illyria the form of one of the bird species he commands. She chooses a familiar raven with one eye to be her guide, and gets the ability to take that form. So that was cool. As was her ability to now communicate with the ravens who are more than simple birds.
I will say that I think the "romance" aspect of this book was unsuccessful. As Z'nnek is courting her, I can see how those two would end up together. IF Z'nnek had actually spent any time with Illyria. Which he barely did. So when she ends up professing her love for him it was quite the surprise. Then you have her raven guide, Tourak (I think I spelled that right). They actually have a history together from when Illyria was a child and he does spend most of their time together. So I can also see how these two could end up together. But it just seemed so awkward, and while I understand Illyria doesn't have an issue with multiple partners, it didn't seem appropriate here. Especially considering both of the males' feelings about it.
At the end, Illyria simply decides to accept things as they are. The whole time she has fought against being called a goddess and a queen, but no longer. Which was good. But she also ends up making such stupid decisions because, again, she just doesn't think and it was so incredibly frustrating. But at this point she has managed to take some of her revenge. Unfortunately, her bad choices have left her body dying again and soon she will be leaving for Z'nnek's realm again. But all we get when she arrives there is the three of them having sex. And the end of the book.
I honestly don't know how interested I am in continuing this. Yes, the story was really interesting. But I just ended up finding Illyria to be so incredibly irksome.
Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley.
The story in general was really good. Often times violent and occasionally disturbing. Illyria has dreams of becoming someone important who helps the people and doles out justice. She's a devote follower of her chosen god and can't wait to serve him. So imagine her surprise when her entire peoples are ambushed at what should have been a peaceful gathering and her own family is offered up in forbidden rituals to the gods. Oh, and she gets herself killed trying to save them. But unbeknownst to Illyria, she has caught the attention and affection of the god of death (and numerous other titles). So instead of being claimed by the god she had dedicated her life to, she finds herself amongst the shades of the unclaimed being courted by Z'nnek.
At this point, all Illyria cares about is getting justice for her family and her clan. So she makes a deal with Z'nnek to be returned to her (dead) body so she can make those responsible pay. Her quest for vengeance has her finding herself the center of attention for the high gods and some of the small gods. Her enemies are the chosen of the high gods so she finds herself walking a very fine line of starting another god war. But nothing will stop her as she carves her bloody path.
One of Z'nnek's courting gifts was giving Illyria the form of one of the bird species he commands. She chooses a familiar raven with one eye to be her guide, and gets the ability to take that form. So that was cool. As was her ability to now communicate with the ravens who are more than simple birds.
I will say that I think the "romance" aspect of this book was unsuccessful. As Z'nnek is courting her, I can see how those two would end up together. IF Z'nnek had actually spent any time with Illyria. Which he barely did. So when she ends up professing her love for him it was quite the surprise. Then you have her raven guide, Tourak (I think I spelled that right). They actually have a history together from when Illyria was a child and he does spend most of their time together. So I can also see how these two could end up together. But it just seemed so awkward, and while I understand Illyria doesn't have an issue with multiple partners, it didn't seem appropriate here. Especially considering both of the males' feelings about it.
At the end, Illyria simply decides to accept things as they are. The whole time she has fought against being called a goddess and a queen, but no longer. Which was good. But she also ends up making such stupid decisions because, again, she just doesn't think and it was so incredibly frustrating. But at this point she has managed to take some of her revenge. Unfortunately, her bad choices have left her body dying again and soon she will be leaving for Z'nnek's realm again. But all we get when she arrives there is the three of them having sex. And the end of the book.
I honestly don't know how interested I am in continuing this. Yes, the story was really interesting. But I just ended up finding Illyria to be so incredibly irksome.
Copy provided by publisher via Netgalley.
April 6, 2022
2.5 stars, it was okay.
This book was definitely unique.
However, the plot was kind of all over the place. What started as a strong and interesting book premise, I was drawn to the MC's personality and her thirst for revenge. However, the plot quickly tapered off and dragged on after the first 1/3 of the book... it felt as if the author didn't understand where the story was going. This led to a lot of unnecessary filler and a very strange narrative.
The world-building lacked in my opinion. There were a lot of confusing moments where the author just expected the reader to understand with no prior explanation. The relationships between the MC and other characters were very underdeveloped, and her interactions/alliances flip-flopped without much reasoning.
As I said, it was okay. But I probably wouldn't pick it up again.
This book was definitely unique.
However, the plot was kind of all over the place. What started as a strong and interesting book premise, I was drawn to the MC's personality and her thirst for revenge. However, the plot quickly tapered off and dragged on after the first 1/3 of the book... it felt as if the author didn't understand where the story was going. This led to a lot of unnecessary filler and a very strange narrative.
The world-building lacked in my opinion. There were a lot of confusing moments where the author just expected the reader to understand with no prior explanation. The relationships between the MC and other characters were very underdeveloped, and her interactions/alliances flip-flopped without much reasoning.
As I said, it was okay. But I probably wouldn't pick it up again.
December 20, 2021
I went into this book sceptical due to other reviews however I was absolutely blown away.
The story follows unique themes and characters with a wide range of diversity in race, sexuality and more. The world is well written along with the lore and love of Gods. Illyria is written in a way that makes her human, she isn’t perfect and she’s aware doing the best she can to avenge her family.
There are darker themes such as gore, necromancy and dark arts and more, however if accustomed to them then this book will be perfect. I, who holds an interest in such things found the writing brilliant and overal really well done, not having gore just for the sake of it but for reason.
One of new favourite books, would recommend to anyone who isn’t phased by some of the darker themes
The story follows unique themes and characters with a wide range of diversity in race, sexuality and more. The world is well written along with the lore and love of Gods. Illyria is written in a way that makes her human, she isn’t perfect and she’s aware doing the best she can to avenge her family.
There are darker themes such as gore, necromancy and dark arts and more, however if accustomed to them then this book will be perfect. I, who holds an interest in such things found the writing brilliant and overal really well done, not having gore just for the sake of it but for reason.
One of new favourite books, would recommend to anyone who isn’t phased by some of the darker themes
November 17, 2021
The whole situation was so strange. Just a few moments ago Illyria was fighting for her life and her family's, fighting with all her strength even at the death's door. The next moment she opens her eyes she finds herself in the underworld. It was so unfair and unjust. This is not over yet. She needed to go back. She needed vengeance.
She needed to do something. So she decided to win the favour of the Lord Of The Underworld Z'nnek. It seemed to her that no matter ho much she pleaded or tried to gain his sympathy he did not budge. Although she could sense he was a little flirty and offered her that she could stay in the underworld for eternity. After hearing that she planned to go alongwith whatever Z'nnek proposed so in later time she could use him to go back to the lands under the sun and convince Torr to claim. Will Illyria be able to get her plan successful or will she fall in deep in the game she is playing. Find out more in Raven Queen, Arise.
Although the concept of the story was interesting I was very confused at first as it seemed the story was rushed from the beginning. All the characters from the story appeared so suddenly it was difficult for me to grasp the story. Still I really respect the effort and time author took with it. Such a big idea needs a lot to put together. The implementation of such idea was better than expected. If you really enjoy fantasy,mystery or any stories with a theme of vengeance you would really take a liking to this book.
She needed to do something. So she decided to win the favour of the Lord Of The Underworld Z'nnek. It seemed to her that no matter ho much she pleaded or tried to gain his sympathy he did not budge. Although she could sense he was a little flirty and offered her that she could stay in the underworld for eternity. After hearing that she planned to go alongwith whatever Z'nnek proposed so in later time she could use him to go back to the lands under the sun and convince Torr to claim. Will Illyria be able to get her plan successful or will she fall in deep in the game she is playing. Find out more in Raven Queen, Arise.
Although the concept of the story was interesting I was very confused at first as it seemed the story was rushed from the beginning. All the characters from the story appeared so suddenly it was difficult for me to grasp the story. Still I really respect the effort and time author took with it. Such a big idea needs a lot to put together. The implementation of such idea was better than expected. If you really enjoy fantasy,mystery or any stories with a theme of vengeance you would really take a liking to this book.
November 30, 2021
This story is definitely an original story that kept me engaged for the most part. I did find a few things confusing about the timeline, but that's just me. I will say that Dave Reed is an incredible author who has a big time talent of creating a colorful world that seriously felt real in the telling. It's the story about The Raven Queen who was killed brutally so she's coming back to get her revenge. I'm telling you this heroine was a bada** as she was coming into her own. The reason she's able to come back is the God of Death who fell in love with her, but I'm not sure as to the timeframe of that which was part of the confusion for me. On the flip side, this author totally wrote about mythology like I've never read before and he can consider me a new fan going forward. There's so much going on with a lot of moving parts, a ton of magic with a kicker of twists coming in hot so I was on the edge of my seat cover to cover. Please don't take my confusion as fact because it could just be a me thing so decide for yourselves by hitting those one click buttons as at the end of the day, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
September 10, 2021
If you like dead people, or if you think that the essence of a person does not die, but goes on to disturb the natural order of things, this book is for you. Seriously, you have to believe that the sex, at least, gets better after death, as it was never good enough in life. If for no other reason, read the last chapter for really great sex. The lead-up is pretty good too. Dr. Bob Newport
June 5, 2022
This was such a good book to read! The cover is amazing too! If you enjoy reading fantasy books that are full of excitement, suspense, revenge, adventure and wonderful characters. This is the book for you! It was a page turner and did not disappoint!!!
July 18, 2022
good start
I liked this book, it’s story was long and complicated, but in the best way possible. It was easy to understand despite being complicated. I wish there was more of the story, I’m curious to see what would happen in the rest of the story.
I liked this book, it’s story was long and complicated, but in the best way possible. It was easy to understand despite being complicated. I wish there was more of the story, I’m curious to see what would happen in the rest of the story.
July 24, 2022
Great
I've seen this title many times in my search for something to read. But after reading it I'm truly happy that I did!! Great read Mr Reed and you too have become one of the many other authors I follow!!
I've seen this title many times in my search for something to read. But after reading it I'm truly happy that I did!! Great read Mr Reed and you too have become one of the many other authors I follow!!
July 24, 2022
Loved Every Minute
Definitely an unforgettable experience. You'll both love an hate the characters. Beautiful retelling of Persephone and Hades love story!! ADDICTIVE UNTIL THE END!!!
Definitely an unforgettable experience. You'll both love an hate the characters. Beautiful retelling of Persephone and Hades love story!! ADDICTIVE UNTIL THE END!!!
February 20, 2022
It was okay , maybe 3.5 stars
February 26, 2024
A good continuation of the series and more characters are introduced. Some are not exactly who they appear to me. Very interesting!
Was a little disappointed that someone else became the mc, and she’s quite young, naive, and a little arrogant. The pairing was also a little shocking, because she’s so young! Other than that it was a good read. Curious to what the rest of the series will unfold.
Was a little disappointed that someone else became the mc, and she’s quite young, naive, and a little arrogant. The pairing was also a little shocking, because she’s so young! Other than that it was a good read. Curious to what the rest of the series will unfold.
September 17, 2021
First: Adult Fantasy. As in VERY Adult Fantasy. I review a lot of MG books on here and this does NOT fit there at all.
Second: This book reminded me of a Terry Brooks' Shannara books (not the show...) written for a modern reader who happens to love the visceral complexity of Richard Morgan's Altered Carbon. Then peppered with George R.R. Martin's blood lust.
If you ever wanted to live out a revenge fantasy where you wield swords and magic, this is the book to read.
Second: This book reminded me of a Terry Brooks' Shannara books (not the show...) written for a modern reader who happens to love the visceral complexity of Richard Morgan's Altered Carbon. Then peppered with George R.R. Martin's blood lust.
If you ever wanted to live out a revenge fantasy where you wield swords and magic, this is the book to read.
June 22, 2025
Short review: A fantasy where the main character is a fierce woman hellbent on revenge and is racing against the clock to save her family. If you're interested in a fantasy that deals with gods and goddesses, has bit of death and gore, and has a strong FMC, then I'd recommend this book.
Long Review (containing spoilers): When I started reading this book, I was not in the mood for a fantasy, so it was a little hard for me to get into. However, I did enjoy the premise of the book and the characters for the most part. I feel like since I wasn't in the mind space for a fantasy book, I was confused half the time with what was going on. Illyria was an interesting FMC; she was fierce and ferocious and would do whatever it took to save her family. I usually don't like the FMC of books, but I liked Illyria for the most part. She was a bit of a badass. I also loved Z'nnek and Tourak, they were my favorite characters. The entire time -- until it was revealed -- I kept saying that Tourak just had to be the bird Ilyria saved when she was younger, and I was so happy when it was true. I'm glad Illyria ends up with both of them because they both truly did love her and I didn't want either of them to be hurt by her choosing the other. However, I did think it was a little quick for Z'nnek falling in love with Illyria, I didn't really get the connection there, but I still liked them. I enjoyed the mythology aspect of this book as well, it was interesting to hear/see all the different gods and goddesses.
Long Review (containing spoilers): When I started reading this book, I was not in the mood for a fantasy, so it was a little hard for me to get into. However, I did enjoy the premise of the book and the characters for the most part. I feel like since I wasn't in the mind space for a fantasy book, I was confused half the time with what was going on. Illyria was an interesting FMC; she was fierce and ferocious and would do whatever it took to save her family. I usually don't like the FMC of books, but I liked Illyria for the most part. She was a bit of a badass. I also loved Z'nnek and Tourak, they were my favorite characters. The entire time -- until it was revealed -- I kept saying that Tourak just had to be the bird Ilyria saved when she was younger, and I was so happy when it was true. I'm glad Illyria ends up with both of them because they both truly did love her and I didn't want either of them to be hurt by her choosing the other. However, I did think it was a little quick for Z'nnek falling in love with Illyria, I didn't really get the connection there, but I still liked them. I enjoyed the mythology aspect of this book as well, it was interesting to hear/see all the different gods and goddesses.
May 10, 2022
If you do not mind the MC being an idiot as means to propel the story forward well then maybe this would rate a 4/5 or better from you.
Since I do not enjoy reading or listening to stories that are entirely MC pov driven with said being an idiot or all round screwup, who's seemingly oblivious of that fact to the degree the one in this story is, I found myself unable to stomach this otherwise above average quality work.
Anyway by the time I got about a 5th of the way through this book I found myself hard pressed to not repeatedly bash my forehead into the marble top of my reading table. Super Annoying! Past that point, I guess, listening was more like irrational mental self flagellation of sorts but what I personally consider the minimum to rate & write a review.
@ Dave Reed,
Please consider having the MC's of any future stories you publish not be so.. Annoying!
I think I'd greatly enjoy any such book of yours.
Since I do not enjoy reading or listening to stories that are entirely MC pov driven with said being an idiot or all round screwup, who's seemingly oblivious of that fact to the degree the one in this story is, I found myself unable to stomach this otherwise above average quality work.
Anyway by the time I got about a 5th of the way through this book I found myself hard pressed to not repeatedly bash my forehead into the marble top of my reading table. Super Annoying! Past that point, I guess, listening was more like irrational mental self flagellation of sorts but what I personally consider the minimum to rate & write a review.
@ Dave Reed,
Please consider having the MC's of any future stories you publish not be so.. Annoying!
I think I'd greatly enjoy any such book of yours.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews