What do you think?
Rate this book
Quietus
The land is dying and there's a witch on the hunt. For a home, for the truth, for retribution.
The Death Witch has always existed in the darkness, an urban legend born from an endless war, twisted magic, and a hunger for power. For 24 long years, Devlin Raben has lived in that darkness, too, with death trailing her shadow and a ruthless but nearly forgotten prophecy dictating her future.
After six years of silent freedom, Devlin is forced to confront a past littered with secrets, a present as deceptive as it is hopeful, and a future seething with uncertainties. The only chance she has at rewriting her future is to wield the power she's hidden for so long, a power that many want to abuse and even more have died for. But unleashing that magic plays right into Fate's hands, and Devlin risks not only her freedom, but her soul.
The prophecy yearns to be fulfilled and Fate is a fickle being, but even it can be persuaded.
The Death Witch has always existed in the darkness, an urban legend born from an endless war, twisted magic, and a hunger for power. For 24 long years, Devlin Raben has lived in that darkness, too, with death trailing her shadow and a ruthless but nearly forgotten prophecy dictating her future.
After six years of silent freedom, Devlin is forced to confront a past littered with secrets, a present as deceptive as it is hopeful, and a future seething with uncertainties. The only chance she has at rewriting her future is to wield the power she's hidden for so long, a power that many want to abuse and even more have died for. But unleashing that magic plays right into Fate's hands, and Devlin risks not only her freedom, but her soul.
The prophecy yearns to be fulfilled and Fate is a fickle being, but even it can be persuaded.
- GenresFantasyUrban Fantasy
294 pages, Paperback
Published July 22, 2022
About the author
D.J. Hawkins
5 books51 followersD.J. Hawkins is an author and poet from Upstate, New York whose writing has been praised for its use of poetic imagery and exploration of complex topics like self-harm and depression. Her debut YA novel “This Mess You’ve Made” was published in November 2020. She published “Quietus,” the first installment of her dark, paranormal romance series The Death Witch in June of 2021 and released a second, expanded edition in 2022. Her poem “The Allegory of Us” has also been published by Oprelle publications in the anthology titled “Matter.” Her first poetry collection, "Phoenix Rising", was published winter 2022.
A middle school teacher by day, novelist by night, D.J. earned her BA in Literature from Hamilton College and a Masters of Teaching in English Education from BU. She currently lives in southern Massachusetts with her husband, newborn, and chonky cats Tofu and Luna.
A middle school teacher by day, novelist by night, D.J. earned her BA in Literature from Hamilton College and a Masters of Teaching in English Education from BU. She currently lives in southern Massachusetts with her husband, newborn, and chonky cats Tofu and Luna.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
July 22, 2021
The earth around the Silverwood werewolf pack is dying and the alpha, Lei, has sent to a coven of witches for help. When Devlin arrives, she vows to find answers to aid her murdered parents’ old friend, “Uncle” Lei. Cayden, the pack’s beta, is drawn to Devlin even though he’s an untrusting recluse and the two initially challenge each other for dominance. The mysterious and powerful witch has secrets. As a child, her coven, including her parents, were murdered and Devlin was kidnapped by The Vane, a trio of black witches intent on stealing her incredible powers for their own evil purpose. A prisoner for years, Devlin was subjected to torture and sexual abuse. Since her escape, she’s remained hidden, knowing the leader will find her some day and finish what he started. Unless she kills him first.
This is the second book I’ve read by this author and, once more, I was drawn in by her talent as a wordsmith. Hawkins creates a world where supernaturals live among humans, though some have separated themselves, according to their nature. As a protagonist, Devlin is someone you hope will have her vengeance (Vane is a true villain) and finally win the life she deserves with the mate she resists accepting. Cayden, too, deserves a place to call home and a family to protect. This first book in the Death Witch trilogy ends with a satisfying resolution while still setting us up, in a chilling way, for the next book in the series. Quietus is a well-paced page-turner, at times suspenseful and tense, at others sweet and emotional. Paranormal romance lovers will enjoy!
This is the second book I’ve read by this author and, once more, I was drawn in by her talent as a wordsmith. Hawkins creates a world where supernaturals live among humans, though some have separated themselves, according to their nature. As a protagonist, Devlin is someone you hope will have her vengeance (Vane is a true villain) and finally win the life she deserves with the mate she resists accepting. Cayden, too, deserves a place to call home and a family to protect. This first book in the Death Witch trilogy ends with a satisfying resolution while still setting us up, in a chilling way, for the next book in the series. Quietus is a well-paced page-turner, at times suspenseful and tense, at others sweet and emotional. Paranormal romance lovers will enjoy!
March 7, 2022
Entertaining, emotional read.
Quietus is about the supernatural but it’s so much more. It dives deep into some real world constructs and traumas (child abuse, captivity). It also seeps into romance. I really enjoyed reading this book. I found the world building to be fantastic. The creation of the characters is impressive. The romance was slow burn. I don’t normally enjoy slow burns but this one had plenty of sweet moments and interactions to keep me invested. I particularly loved Caydens sweet nature towards Devlin. He never gave up on her, no matter what. I really appreciated how different this book is from other paranormal romances. There was no cheating, no jealous ex. No psycho girl waiting in the bushes. I loved that the drama came from their past versus using the old jealous ex bit. I absolutely loved the writing style. It was descriptive and vivid. This book will live in my head- rent free, until I read the sequel.
Quietus is about the supernatural but it’s so much more. It dives deep into some real world constructs and traumas (child abuse, captivity). It also seeps into romance. I really enjoyed reading this book. I found the world building to be fantastic. The creation of the characters is impressive. The romance was slow burn. I don’t normally enjoy slow burns but this one had plenty of sweet moments and interactions to keep me invested. I particularly loved Caydens sweet nature towards Devlin. He never gave up on her, no matter what. I really appreciated how different this book is from other paranormal romances. There was no cheating, no jealous ex. No psycho girl waiting in the bushes. I loved that the drama came from their past versus using the old jealous ex bit. I absolutely loved the writing style. It was descriptive and vivid. This book will live in my head- rent free, until I read the sequel.
June 23, 2021
Queitus is a fantastic, new adult novel with a refreshing take on the classic witches, werewolves, and monsters mythos.
The story follows Devlin, a young witch with a haunting origin, as she battles a malicious prophacy placed upon her by fate. As she travels through the world filled with creatures of the night, she is faced with both enemies and allies alike that will push towards her salvation, or her inevitable destiny.
The story follows Devlin, a young witch with a haunting origin, as she battles a malicious prophacy placed upon her by fate. As she travels through the world filled with creatures of the night, she is faced with both enemies and allies alike that will push towards her salvation, or her inevitable destiny.
January 29, 2022
I am not the biggest fan of supernatural books, but I could not put this book down! Quietus sucked me in with the very first sentence!
Devlin is the caring, strong-willed, powerful main character that everyone will love. Through dealing with her own internal struggles, Devlin puts her loved ones first and is not afraid to sacrifice herself for any of them. From family and friendships to romantic relationships, this story delves into so many connections and interactions between the characters in a way that it feels like each emotion is pouring from the pages of this book.
I also love how this story deals with, and starts a conversation about sexual abuse, child abuse, mentally traumatic events, and LGBTQ+.
I cannot wait for the rest of this trilogy!
P.S. this would make an amazing movie/TV series! A must-watch!
Devlin is the caring, strong-willed, powerful main character that everyone will love. Through dealing with her own internal struggles, Devlin puts her loved ones first and is not afraid to sacrifice herself for any of them. From family and friendships to romantic relationships, this story delves into so many connections and interactions between the characters in a way that it feels like each emotion is pouring from the pages of this book.
I also love how this story deals with, and starts a conversation about sexual abuse, child abuse, mentally traumatic events, and LGBTQ+.
I cannot wait for the rest of this trilogy!
P.S. this would make an amazing movie/TV series! A must-watch!
June 16, 2021
Quietus by D.J. Hawkins is the first book in The Death Witch Trilogy, a fantasy, paranormal romance series featuring Witches and Werewolves. Told from the third point of view this is Devlin’s story. One night fourteen years ago changed Devlin’s life as she knew it. She went from a teen living happily with her parents to captive by people who wanted to take her power by force. She managed to escape and now will do anything to stay hidden from them. Devlin arrives at Silverwood, her home away from home in the past, on a mission to help the Alpha. She’s not the same person she was the last time she visited. She is now a witch surrounded by death, danger, and darkness.
Quietus was an emotional, action-packed, slow-burn romance between Devlin and Cayden. Devlin and Cayden are complex, realistic characters I really enjoyed. Devlin’s character was inspiring in a way. She has dealt with so much in her past and her struggles with the capacity of her power would have broken anyone in her position, but she has persevered. Cayden is the Beta of the Silverwood Pack, next in line to become Alpha. When he meets Devlin, his trust in her is wary, but as he gets to know Devlin he realizes she’s not like other witches. Cayden committed to protecting his pack even though he lives like an outsider, and that extends to Devlin as well now. Cayden and Devlin’s lives will be forever changed as they deal with the conflicts surrounding them.
Quietus is well-written, full of magic, myth, and astonishing twists and turns. One of my favorite things in this book was the relationship that developed between Devlin and Ella. It was parent-like, and it warmed my heart to see how Devlin changed. I’m looking forward to the next book and can’t wait to see what else is in store for Devlin.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Quietus was an emotional, action-packed, slow-burn romance between Devlin and Cayden. Devlin and Cayden are complex, realistic characters I really enjoyed. Devlin’s character was inspiring in a way. She has dealt with so much in her past and her struggles with the capacity of her power would have broken anyone in her position, but she has persevered. Cayden is the Beta of the Silverwood Pack, next in line to become Alpha. When he meets Devlin, his trust in her is wary, but as he gets to know Devlin he realizes she’s not like other witches. Cayden committed to protecting his pack even though he lives like an outsider, and that extends to Devlin as well now. Cayden and Devlin’s lives will be forever changed as they deal with the conflicts surrounding them.
Quietus is well-written, full of magic, myth, and astonishing twists and turns. One of my favorite things in this book was the relationship that developed between Devlin and Ella. It was parent-like, and it warmed my heart to see how Devlin changed. I’m looking forward to the next book and can’t wait to see what else is in store for Devlin.
Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 24, 2021
For the young adult female reader, I give this book 5 stars. This is a much better book than the price suggests and it obviously took a long time to write.
The takeaway? A slow, wordy descriptive beginning and it's not unusual to have to read the same sentence twice for it to make sense and sometimes the rhetorical comparisons still don’t work. This slows down the pace and prevents it from becoming a “page turner”. Nonetheless, the end of chapter 2 completely made up for the slow beginning. It’s quite clear words are her paintbrush and her story her canvass and she paints a pretty good picture. At some point VIVID occurs and you are riveted, myself with fascination and appreciation for how well the scenes were done. Although the story is in the popular Jen L. Grey style, I actually found it original for a romance (if that can be believed), for the different supernaturals social issues, and for how the plot elements dovetail so perfectly (Everything serves a purpose, whether it’s the wind or the smell of burnt wood in the air and… if a window cracks… you’ll feel it.). Sexual tension is so high its nail biting. So––yes, the book has a lot of 5 star moments and it’s not hard to follow. The author has written 288 book reviews herself, so she knows what she wants and how to present it, right down to inserting Devlin’s “familiar” on the page breaks. If you like originality dripping with sexual cliffhangers (and which of us does not) then this is a must read.
The takeaway? A slow, wordy descriptive beginning and it's not unusual to have to read the same sentence twice for it to make sense and sometimes the rhetorical comparisons still don’t work. This slows down the pace and prevents it from becoming a “page turner”. Nonetheless, the end of chapter 2 completely made up for the slow beginning. It’s quite clear words are her paintbrush and her story her canvass and she paints a pretty good picture. At some point VIVID occurs and you are riveted, myself with fascination and appreciation for how well the scenes were done. Although the story is in the popular Jen L. Grey style, I actually found it original for a romance (if that can be believed), for the different supernaturals social issues, and for how the plot elements dovetail so perfectly (Everything serves a purpose, whether it’s the wind or the smell of burnt wood in the air and… if a window cracks… you’ll feel it.). Sexual tension is so high its nail biting. So––yes, the book has a lot of 5 star moments and it’s not hard to follow. The author has written 288 book reviews herself, so she knows what she wants and how to present it, right down to inserting Devlin’s “familiar” on the page breaks. If you like originality dripping with sexual cliffhangers (and which of us does not) then this is a must read.
October 26, 2021
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for allowing me to review this ARC with honesty.
The Death Witch. I mean, it's hard to say no to a book with something like that in it. But then you add werewolves? Um, heck yeah.
So from the synopsis alone, I was immediately wanted to read this book. The story of Devlin is heartbreaking with tragedies happening all around her. I absolutely felt for her whenever the panic/hysteria from the idea that "certain individuals who shall not be named" may be seeking her out again.
Cayden was also a very interesting character - though, I do admit, I didn't really get to connect with him as much which is a little disappointing (but thankfully, there is another book so that makes me happy.)
Overall, I liked the premise a lot, felt connected to some characters while others your still kind of peeling back those onion layers, trying to get a read on some. The story building was definitely there with all the interesting magic reveals.
I would definitely read the next book as well.
There are definite trigger warnings so make sure to check on those before reading but it is used as a plot device which at least helps the story along. Again, check the warnings for those who avoid: violence, rape and child abuse. Those are essentially the big baddies that jumped out at me the most.
My Rating is 4 stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The Death Witch. I mean, it's hard to say no to a book with something like that in it. But then you add werewolves? Um, heck yeah.
So from the synopsis alone, I was immediately wanted to read this book. The story of Devlin is heartbreaking with tragedies happening all around her. I absolutely felt for her whenever the panic/hysteria from the idea that "certain individuals who shall not be named" may be seeking her out again.
Cayden was also a very interesting character - though, I do admit, I didn't really get to connect with him as much which is a little disappointing (but thankfully, there is another book so that makes me happy.)
Overall, I liked the premise a lot, felt connected to some characters while others your still kind of peeling back those onion layers, trying to get a read on some. The story building was definitely there with all the interesting magic reveals.
I would definitely read the next book as well.
There are definite trigger warnings so make sure to check on those before reading but it is used as a plot device which at least helps the story along. Again, check the warnings for those who avoid: violence, rape and child abuse. Those are essentially the big baddies that jumped out at me the most.
My Rating is 4 stars. 🌟🌟🌟🌟
May 24, 2021
D.J Hawkins is a new author to me and I would recommend her work to others out there. She did an amazing job with the first installment in The Death Witch Trilogy. I was hooked from the first page.
Quietus is full of action and emotions. It is a well-written, easy to read, and page-turner story.
Devlin has returned to the place that always felt like home. After years of being a prisoner of people that wants to take her power. She will do anything to hide from them. So much has changed since the last time she was in Silverwood. She is a witch with death and darkness part of her.
Cayden is next in line to become the Alpha of his pack. He didn’t feel comfortable around Devlin the first time he met her but realized that she is not the same as the other witches. Cayden will do anything to keep Devlin and his pack safe from any harm.
Both Devlin and Cayden have to make difficult decisions. The decisions that can change not only their lives forever, but also those around them.
I am honored to be part of the whole process and journey of The Death Witch Trilogy. I want to thank D.J. Hawkins for trusting me with an early copy of Quietus. It was worth every second.
A MUST READ for Paranormal Romance lovers.
Quietus is full of action and emotions. It is a well-written, easy to read, and page-turner story.
Devlin has returned to the place that always felt like home. After years of being a prisoner of people that wants to take her power. She will do anything to hide from them. So much has changed since the last time she was in Silverwood. She is a witch with death and darkness part of her.
Cayden is next in line to become the Alpha of his pack. He didn’t feel comfortable around Devlin the first time he met her but realized that she is not the same as the other witches. Cayden will do anything to keep Devlin and his pack safe from any harm.
Both Devlin and Cayden have to make difficult decisions. The decisions that can change not only their lives forever, but also those around them.
I am honored to be part of the whole process and journey of The Death Witch Trilogy. I want to thank D.J. Hawkins for trusting me with an early copy of Quietus. It was worth every second.
A MUST READ for Paranormal Romance lovers.
August 7, 2021
Quietus is a fantasy based around witches and werewolves. Good start for an upcoming author's first series. Full of dark characters, characters that should be damaged beyond repair but claw their way up and bloom into someone stronger. Very socially conscious book that hits all the big issues including child abuse, rape, sexual abuse, mental and physical abuse, classism, environmentalism and many forms of discrimination and bigotry. Could definitely be a trigger for someone hurt by any of those.
The world building was the books weak point. It was hard to get a feel for the author's vision in that. Her characters are the strongest part of the story.
I received this as an ARC from #BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The world building was the books weak point. It was hard to get a feel for the author's vision in that. Her characters are the strongest part of the story.
I received this as an ARC from #BookSirens. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 20, 2021
Jam packed with action, mystery, the supernatural, and a good serving of sexual tension, Quietus has it all. This isn't your average vampire, witch, werewolf novel, nuh-uh. While ultimately interconnected through a dark prophecy, you get to experience the joy, passion, anger, and hope each character embodies as we learn about their walks of life.
D.J. Hawkins has produced yet another great YA Novel that will surely keep you up at night. Overall, Quietus is a well-written novel with detailed imagery, captivating actions scenes, and strong characters.
Can't wait for book #2 in The Death Witch Trilogy!!
D.J. Hawkins has produced yet another great YA Novel that will surely keep you up at night. Overall, Quietus is a well-written novel with detailed imagery, captivating actions scenes, and strong characters.
Can't wait for book #2 in The Death Witch Trilogy!!
September 5, 2021
I really did enjoy this book and have completely finished it and am back to tender my review. Quietus (The Death Witch) is indeed a GREAT Read. How do I know? My son was able to clarify new age writing and a dead girl's journey to me and after reading the book a second time I am more impressed than I was before! Devlin's incredible powers were immense; yet she was reluctant to use them until early in the book she gets into a fight and exhibits her immense skills. This is indeed an excellent novel that I recommend to all. It's creative, it's innovative and the writer will definitely maintain on the scene as one of the best author's of this genre!
July 6, 2021
While this is the first book in a series the world didn't feel overly explained with a ton of exposition, nor did we end on a cliff hanger. I liked the protagonist (her powerset is AMAZING) as well as the characters surrounding her. The side plot regarding a rogue werewolf is the weakest, and is obviously just there to serve a purpose. My favorite scene is when she's brought in to read people's memories and makes a judgment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 19, 2021
I've never been a fan of witches and werewolves, but D.J. was able to pull me right in from the very first page. Devlin is an amazing, complex character and her struggles with her own power really makes the story more intriguing. One of my favorite relationships in the book is between Devlin and Ella. The ending definitely makes me want to read the second book.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2022
So good it gave me chills! I loved Quietus from start to finish. The characters are great, but the relationships they built are even better. Devlin is an extremely powerful witch, maybe even the most powerful in the world. Most of her life has been a nightmare, so it takes her a while to warm up. But with the help of her fated mate, a young girl, and a werewolf pack, she goes up against her abuser. Really enjoyable, I'm hoping for a sequel!
October 11, 2022
This book had me hooked from the start! Do check the trigger warnings/content warning at the front of the book. This book was fast paced without being too fast paced. You still were able to get the background story of all the main characters and how they all end up being tied together. Loved that the story had witches, werewolves and a hint vampires in it. The love story was perfectly placed into the plot without being too lovey. Overall great read and can’t wait for book 2!
July 2, 2021
Riveting!
This is a dark paranormal story. It has shifters and witchery, romance and treachery –my favorite elements – combined with dark magic and cruel villains. Definitely, the best way to start a new paranormal series designed to keep me spellbound and thirsting for the next book. I received a complimentary copy but my opinions are honest and voluntary.
This is a dark paranormal story. It has shifters and witchery, romance and treachery –my favorite elements – combined with dark magic and cruel villains. Definitely, the best way to start a new paranormal series designed to keep me spellbound and thirsting for the next book. I received a complimentary copy but my opinions are honest and voluntary.
July 23, 2021
Dark and delicious, this book is one where you should read the trigger warnings but if they are triggers that you can handle this is a fantastic book where the only regret that I have is that it ended and I don’t have the next book in my hands already.
Fantastic book that i can certainly recommend.
Fantastic book that i can certainly recommend.
November 27, 2021
This book drew me in. When I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about it.
The plot is interesting, the climax is eventful and still leaves the reader wanting a sequel. The cliff hanger is interesting. Devlin and Cayden's relationship is super sweet as is their connection to Ella - who absolutely stole my heart.
I look forward to book 2.
The plot is interesting, the climax is eventful and still leaves the reader wanting a sequel. The cliff hanger is interesting. Devlin and Cayden's relationship is super sweet as is their connection to Ella - who absolutely stole my heart.
I look forward to book 2.
October 7, 2022
This is not the genre I typically read, but I’m glad I picked it up. Rarely do writers make it so easy to envision their stories, but Hawkins does it with ease and style. Quietus was fast paced, interesting, and and hit all the right marks. It’s definitely a book Is recommended. I look forward to the next in the series, especially after that epilogue.
June 16, 2021
An interesting start with an intriguing heroine and good world building in a promising new urban fantasy series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 1, 2024
Very unique story and beautiful writing. I loved both FMC and MMC, loved their tragic backgrounds and wanted to learn more about them. I would rate it 4 stars but the last couple chapters had me on edge and the end was *chef kiss. Can't wait to read the next book!
August 6, 2022
Dark
I like dark and twisted fantasy books. I like the descriptions in the book and felt that it was a fun read. It's different but in a good way. If you're in into dark romance and magic... I would recommend this book.
I like dark and twisted fantasy books. I like the descriptions in the book and felt that it was a fun read. It's different but in a good way. If you're in into dark romance and magic... I would recommend this book.
February 18, 2024
Brilliant and immersive.
May 18, 2025
Felt like wattpad all over again
December 7, 2022
Amazing book. Read in one sitting.
The supernatural world as the backdrop of this story is so detailed. I created a movie as I read the book. The protagonists are strong, high-spirited, brave, and engaging. It is thrilling, suspenseful, and action-filled. Can’t wait to read the other books on the series.
The supernatural world as the backdrop of this story is so detailed. I created a movie as I read the book. The protagonists are strong, high-spirited, brave, and engaging. It is thrilling, suspenseful, and action-filled. Can’t wait to read the other books on the series.
July 22, 2022
I kept dreaming about the characters and plot for this book, so I knew I needed to write it. Devlin is one of my favorite characters I've ever created; she's who I wish I could be if I were a witch. I've always been fascinated with magic, myth, and lore so being able to put my own twist on some aspects was extremely gratifying. I could go on and on about what I enjoyed about writing this book, and also what I didn't enjoy, but if you like complex, realistic characters, a little slow burn romance and sexual tension, and some violent justice, then you should give "Quietus" a chance.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews