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The Revere Trilogy #2
Ash Like Vengeance
The history books telling the story of a fell-fated expedition to the West Rim won’t remember the name of the Stranger, a woman who loved her family and worshiped her freedom. But the rest of the Rim will.
What remains of the Revere family vows vengeance on the once-partner responsible for the loss of their train and the deaths caused by the price he placed on their heads.
In Hannah, Adelaide stalks the men responsible for her capture in the mining settlement where she was born. The longer she stays, the stronger her shadow, the Stranger, becomes and the bloodier the legend she will leave behind.
Tesla has found sanctuary with old friends, but not peace. Progress waits for no woman to load her gun. Using the journals written by the woman who unleashed the pestilence years ago, she and Adelaide’s sisters attempt what the original chemist failed to create.
To get Adelaide back, a dangerous alliance must be made and a train heist pulled on the most difficult mark they’ve ever targeted.
It’s time for the men who once bought protection and smuggled goods to remember why the name Revere was the last on so many dying lips, and the rails are not safe not matter what the Green Contract Company tells you.
So let it be dark. Let it be bloody. Let us pray.
For red is the color of revenge.
Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Reader's Choice Nominee (2024)
What remains of the Revere family vows vengeance on the once-partner responsible for the loss of their train and the deaths caused by the price he placed on their heads.
In Hannah, Adelaide stalks the men responsible for her capture in the mining settlement where she was born. The longer she stays, the stronger her shadow, the Stranger, becomes and the bloodier the legend she will leave behind.
Tesla has found sanctuary with old friends, but not peace. Progress waits for no woman to load her gun. Using the journals written by the woman who unleashed the pestilence years ago, she and Adelaide’s sisters attempt what the original chemist failed to create.
To get Adelaide back, a dangerous alliance must be made and a train heist pulled on the most difficult mark they’ve ever targeted.
It’s time for the men who once bought protection and smuggled goods to remember why the name Revere was the last on so many dying lips, and the rails are not safe not matter what the Green Contract Company tells you.
So let it be dark. Let it be bloody. Let us pray.
For red is the color of revenge.
Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Reader's Choice Nominee (2024)
488 pages, Paperback
Published August 8, 2023
1 person is currently reading
2218 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Delavega
3 books46 followersJ.L. Delavega is the award-winning author of feminist bloodbath THE REVERE TRILOGY.
Her work has been recognized for its unique blend of western gothic meets dark fantasy and horror. Smoke and Other Storms has been nominated for several awards and won the Reader’s Favorite silver medal for western fiction (2024).
She lives in the desert and could say she makes all her own clothes but that would be a lie.
Find her on:
www.jldelavega.com
Instagram: @ninjenaiyauthor
Threads: @ninjenaiyauthor
Her work has been recognized for its unique blend of western gothic meets dark fantasy and horror. Smoke and Other Storms has been nominated for several awards and won the Reader’s Favorite silver medal for western fiction (2024).
She lives in the desert and could say she makes all her own clothes but that would be a lie.
Find her on:
www.jldelavega.com
Instagram: @ninjenaiyauthor
Threads: @ninjenaiyauthor
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 28, 2023
Welcome back to the Rim.
The remains of the Revere family have been scattered to the wind. Tess, Navy, and Leagan are left licking their wounds in Damascus at a sanctuary only open to women, not knowing where Adelaide is or if she is dead or alive. Adelaide, separated from her family, suffers untold violence and humiliation at the hands of the refinery town of Hannah and its boss for a robbery the Reveres were framed for.
But the deaths of their sister and grandmother won't go unpunished. It's time to make the men who thought they could wipe the Reveres off the map regret ever being born. Aunt Tess has a plan to bring Hannah to its knees and with Adelaide on the inside, it's only a matter of time before they can wipe the stink of the place off the map for good.
As the Revere women and their allies set into motion a series of events that will change the face of the Rim as we know it, can they hold on tight enough to survive the aftermath?
What. A. NOVEL.
Words cannot express how I felt about returning to the Rim with Adelaide and the rest of the Revere women. Just like with Smoke and Other Storms, Delavega quickly begins to build anticipation and ramp up the stakes until the story climaxes in a burst of flames that scorches everything in its path, including the reader. The emotions I felt while reading were strong and brutal. Delavega does not pull any punches and these women suffer for their revenge.
The continuation of the Revere Trilogy is even dirtier, even grittier, and even more blood-filled than the first installment. And the Rim isn't done with these ladies yet. It's time to go back west and I cannot wait to be along for the ride.
When does the next book come out? Because I need it yesterday!
The remains of the Revere family have been scattered to the wind. Tess, Navy, and Leagan are left licking their wounds in Damascus at a sanctuary only open to women, not knowing where Adelaide is or if she is dead or alive. Adelaide, separated from her family, suffers untold violence and humiliation at the hands of the refinery town of Hannah and its boss for a robbery the Reveres were framed for.
But the deaths of their sister and grandmother won't go unpunished. It's time to make the men who thought they could wipe the Reveres off the map regret ever being born. Aunt Tess has a plan to bring Hannah to its knees and with Adelaide on the inside, it's only a matter of time before they can wipe the stink of the place off the map for good.
As the Revere women and their allies set into motion a series of events that will change the face of the Rim as we know it, can they hold on tight enough to survive the aftermath?
What. A. NOVEL.
Words cannot express how I felt about returning to the Rim with Adelaide and the rest of the Revere women. Just like with Smoke and Other Storms, Delavega quickly begins to build anticipation and ramp up the stakes until the story climaxes in a burst of flames that scorches everything in its path, including the reader. The emotions I felt while reading were strong and brutal. Delavega does not pull any punches and these women suffer for their revenge.
The continuation of the Revere Trilogy is even dirtier, even grittier, and even more blood-filled than the first installment. And the Rim isn't done with these ladies yet. It's time to go back west and I cannot wait to be along for the ride.
When does the next book come out? Because I need it yesterday!
August 29, 2023
*SPOILERS for Smoke and Other Storms, (Book 1). It is strongly recommended for the books to be read in order.*
“𝙎𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨, 𝙝𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧, 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮.”
The Revere family’s train and sanctuary, the 𝘈𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, has been destroyed, their matriarch taken down, and their beloved silver-tongued sister silenced forever. Proving that there is no honour among thieves, and even less so when it comes being bested by a gang of female outlaws, the Reveres have been betrayed, defamed, and torn apart.
Adelaide, “The Stranger,” held in Hannah by the irate boss who believes the Reveres double-crossed him, plots her retribution. She has suffered but is no victim. The Stranger bides her time.
“𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙖 𝙬𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙮. 𝙊𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙚. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩.”
Meanwhile, her Aunt Tesla (“The Widow … named for the snake, not the deceased”) has lost more than a woman of the Rim should bear, but she endures. Cunning and resilient, she carries on for the sake of her remaining girls and for the defiance of women who are otherwise sold short in a lawless world. She bargains with a shady new ally for the reconciliation and justice her family deserves.
“𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝘿𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙝 …”
J. L. Delavega is a masterful storyteller. Her language of the Rim actually 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 exotic and deadly, making me experience excitement and discomfort at the same time. It’s amazing! The reading enjoyment is punctured with pithy insight and dark feminine fury throughout.
“𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛.”
The agony of the Revere losses from Smoke and Other Storms still burns like red crystal through untried flesh, from the snarling head of Ash Like Vengeance through to its treacherously poisoned tail. The Reveres may be ruthless, but my heart ached for them the whole way through, right up to the suspenseful ending of this second instalment. Be prepared for more blood to be spilled.
“𝙍𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚.”
“𝙎𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙧𝙚𝙚. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨, 𝙝𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧, 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙮.”
The Revere family’s train and sanctuary, the 𝘈𝘣𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, has been destroyed, their matriarch taken down, and their beloved silver-tongued sister silenced forever. Proving that there is no honour among thieves, and even less so when it comes being bested by a gang of female outlaws, the Reveres have been betrayed, defamed, and torn apart.
Adelaide, “The Stranger,” held in Hannah by the irate boss who believes the Reveres double-crossed him, plots her retribution. She has suffered but is no victim. The Stranger bides her time.
“𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙖 𝙬𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙮. 𝙊𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙣𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙚. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩.”
Meanwhile, her Aunt Tesla (“The Widow … named for the snake, not the deceased”) has lost more than a woman of the Rim should bear, but she endures. Cunning and resilient, she carries on for the sake of her remaining girls and for the defiance of women who are otherwise sold short in a lawless world. She bargains with a shady new ally for the reconciliation and justice her family deserves.
“𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩. 𝘿𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙪𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙩𝙝 …”
J. L. Delavega is a masterful storyteller. Her language of the Rim actually 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘴 exotic and deadly, making me experience excitement and discomfort at the same time. It’s amazing! The reading enjoyment is punctured with pithy insight and dark feminine fury throughout.
“𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙞𝙩 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛.”
The agony of the Revere losses from Smoke and Other Storms still burns like red crystal through untried flesh, from the snarling head of Ash Like Vengeance through to its treacherously poisoned tail. The Reveres may be ruthless, but my heart ached for them the whole way through, right up to the suspenseful ending of this second instalment. Be prepared for more blood to be spilled.
“𝙍𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚.”
August 8, 2023
I’ll tell you what. There is just something about vengeance. It is so sweet but incredibly ruthless. No one is safe. I love it!
“Don’t be sorry. Be better.”
We rejoin the Reveres after a bit of time has passed since the events of Smoke and Other Storms (Book 1). But that doesn’t mean they haven’t been busy. Even though the family is separated, their goals are the same. Take down the men who put them in this position. Family are the only ones who can be trusted. Betrayal, always on the mind.
Adelaide learns more about herself, trust, and what it means to care about people who aren’t her family. She continues to be an absolute brutal badass out for blood. She will not be stopped, and I want a front row seat to the show.
The rest of the Reveres go on their own journeys through the book. Exploring gifts, outsmarting and outwitting opponents, having incredible sass, and just being the best at what they do.
This was such an incredible ride. The grit and brutality got ramped up. These women are out for blood, and nothing will stop them. But through all of that, tenderness shines through. These aren’t just brutal pickers taking what they want. They are a family with feelings, grieving what has been lost. There is a lot of planning and setting up that goes on through most of the book, but meaningful character interactions and development are woven within. It was such a treat to be able to see all sides of these characters, and it made the story feel fuller.
I want to say so much more, but I also don't want to spoil too much. I am so excited (and nervous) to see how this story concludes.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Don’t be sorry. Be better.”
We rejoin the Reveres after a bit of time has passed since the events of Smoke and Other Storms (Book 1). But that doesn’t mean they haven’t been busy. Even though the family is separated, their goals are the same. Take down the men who put them in this position. Family are the only ones who can be trusted. Betrayal, always on the mind.
Adelaide learns more about herself, trust, and what it means to care about people who aren’t her family. She continues to be an absolute brutal badass out for blood. She will not be stopped, and I want a front row seat to the show.
The rest of the Reveres go on their own journeys through the book. Exploring gifts, outsmarting and outwitting opponents, having incredible sass, and just being the best at what they do.
This was such an incredible ride. The grit and brutality got ramped up. These women are out for blood, and nothing will stop them. But through all of that, tenderness shines through. These aren’t just brutal pickers taking what they want. They are a family with feelings, grieving what has been lost. There is a lot of planning and setting up that goes on through most of the book, but meaningful character interactions and development are woven within. It was such a treat to be able to see all sides of these characters, and it made the story feel fuller.
I want to say so much more, but I also don't want to spoil too much. I am so excited (and nervous) to see how this story concludes.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2024
This is the story of what happens when you cross sisters, their mother and her daughters.
Fool.
Fool.
August 29, 2023
⚙️ Ash Like Vengeancee ⚙️
By J. L. Delavega
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ll start by saying I haven’t read the first book in this series, I tried for days to get my hands on it but it wasn’t available on iBooks or kindle uk for some reason. I’ve seen the blurb and reviews for “Smoke and other storms” and I’m gutted as it seems amazing - “Ash like vengeance” is a follow on. It took me awhile to try put together what had happened roughly in the first book, by reading this one. So yeah, pick up the first one guys.
“ Everything else, steeped in red. But red is the colour of revenge.. “
Wow. Wow, that’s all I can say - the first page giving you goosebumps is a good sign you’ve came across something special, I’ve been reading for years, every genre under the sun but I’ve never read anything quite like this!
Ash like Vengeance focuses on what’s left of the Revere family as they deal with ghosts, enemies and revenge in a bleak place known as The Rim. It’s an awesome mix of Wild West meets girl power meets steampunk, truly unique.
Oh and there’s even a Spotify playlist! (Even though it’s not related to the words inside the book - the book cover designs and the authors IG aesthetic are everythingggg!).
The Reveres are badass, everything I would have wanted to be when I grow up. They kick ass and take no prisoners, each of them have qualities that make them stand out and aids in their survival in this unforgiving world - the stranger, the slip, the raven, the rook — not women you’d want to cross.
You need to read this for yourself to appreciate how unique it is.
“They can’t erase us if we cut so deep into the rims history, we find blood”
#welcometotherim
#thereveretriology
#ashlikevengeance
#netgalley
#netgalleyreads
By J. L. Delavega
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ll start by saying I haven’t read the first book in this series, I tried for days to get my hands on it but it wasn’t available on iBooks or kindle uk for some reason. I’ve seen the blurb and reviews for “Smoke and other storms” and I’m gutted as it seems amazing - “Ash like vengeance” is a follow on. It took me awhile to try put together what had happened roughly in the first book, by reading this one. So yeah, pick up the first one guys.
“ Everything else, steeped in red. But red is the colour of revenge.. “
Wow. Wow, that’s all I can say - the first page giving you goosebumps is a good sign you’ve came across something special, I’ve been reading for years, every genre under the sun but I’ve never read anything quite like this!
Ash like Vengeance focuses on what’s left of the Revere family as they deal with ghosts, enemies and revenge in a bleak place known as The Rim. It’s an awesome mix of Wild West meets girl power meets steampunk, truly unique.
Oh and there’s even a Spotify playlist! (Even though it’s not related to the words inside the book - the book cover designs and the authors IG aesthetic are everythingggg!).
The Reveres are badass, everything I would have wanted to be when I grow up. They kick ass and take no prisoners, each of them have qualities that make them stand out and aids in their survival in this unforgiving world - the stranger, the slip, the raven, the rook — not women you’d want to cross.
You need to read this for yourself to appreciate how unique it is.
“They can’t erase us if we cut so deep into the rims history, we find blood”
#welcometotherim
#thereveretriology
#ashlikevengeance
#netgalley
#netgalleyreads
May 17, 2025
“Let it be dark. Let it be bloody. Let it be the season of reckoning.”
And oh, it is.
If Smoke and Other Storms was the match, Ash Like Vengeance is the wildfire.
This brutal, brilliant sequel throws us headfirst into the savage world of the Rim, where betrayal is currency, and the Revere women are done playing nice.
Adelaide the Stranger? She’s no longer just a name whispered in fear. She’s the force haunting the blood-soaked alleys of Hannah, a woman shaped by loss and forged in fury.
She’s not hunting justice. She’s hunting vengeance. 🔥
“I am a wretched enemy. One with fire and no remorse.”
Adelaide’s pain is palpable, and her rage is razor-sharp.
What she endures in this book? Gut-wrenching. And yet she rises, every scar a promise.
Meanwhile, Tesla the Widow—deadly, cunning, and colder than steel—knows it's time to bring the Rim to its knees.
When Adelaide’s ransom note lights the fuse, Tesla doesn’t hesitate. Because Reveres don’t back down—they redefine war.
“Red is the color of revenge.”
This book is gritty, raw, and soaked in sand, blood, and girl power. The writing crackles with fury and heart.
Delavega’s language feels like the Rim—harsh, poetic, and charged with the kind of dark feminine energy that makes your blood hum.
You get action.
You get heartbreak.
You get women who burn and bite and bleed for each other. You get lines like:
👉 “They can’t erase us if we cut so deep into the Rim’s history, we find blood.”
And THAT ENDING? I’m still reeling. I need the next book like the Rim needs rain.
If you're looking for soft and sweet, this ain't it. But if you're craving rage, resilience, and ruthless women carving their names into a cruel world—this is your book.
🖤 Adelaide.
🖤 Tesla.
🖤 The Widow, the Rook, the Raven, the Stranger.
They are blood. They are legacy.
They are coming for everything.
Read it if you love: Wild West vibes, female revenge, sisterhood forged in fire, morally grey women, and writing that cuts like a knife.
“And one day, a woman will come for you. She may be a Widow, or a Stranger, a Raptor, or possibly a Rook, but her name will be Revere.”
You’ve been warned.
And oh, it is.
If Smoke and Other Storms was the match, Ash Like Vengeance is the wildfire.
This brutal, brilliant sequel throws us headfirst into the savage world of the Rim, where betrayal is currency, and the Revere women are done playing nice.
Adelaide the Stranger? She’s no longer just a name whispered in fear. She’s the force haunting the blood-soaked alleys of Hannah, a woman shaped by loss and forged in fury.
She’s not hunting justice. She’s hunting vengeance. 🔥
“I am a wretched enemy. One with fire and no remorse.”
Adelaide’s pain is palpable, and her rage is razor-sharp.
What she endures in this book? Gut-wrenching. And yet she rises, every scar a promise.
Meanwhile, Tesla the Widow—deadly, cunning, and colder than steel—knows it's time to bring the Rim to its knees.
When Adelaide’s ransom note lights the fuse, Tesla doesn’t hesitate. Because Reveres don’t back down—they redefine war.
“Red is the color of revenge.”
This book is gritty, raw, and soaked in sand, blood, and girl power. The writing crackles with fury and heart.
Delavega’s language feels like the Rim—harsh, poetic, and charged with the kind of dark feminine energy that makes your blood hum.
You get action.
You get heartbreak.
You get women who burn and bite and bleed for each other. You get lines like:
👉 “They can’t erase us if we cut so deep into the Rim’s history, we find blood.”
And THAT ENDING? I’m still reeling. I need the next book like the Rim needs rain.
If you're looking for soft and sweet, this ain't it. But if you're craving rage, resilience, and ruthless women carving their names into a cruel world—this is your book.
🖤 Adelaide.
🖤 Tesla.
🖤 The Widow, the Rook, the Raven, the Stranger.
They are blood. They are legacy.
They are coming for everything.
Read it if you love: Wild West vibes, female revenge, sisterhood forged in fire, morally grey women, and writing that cuts like a knife.
“And one day, a woman will come for you. She may be a Widow, or a Stranger, a Raptor, or possibly a Rook, but her name will be Revere.”
You’ve been warned.
February 5, 2024
What an exciting story this was to read! I found myself waiting on the edge of my seat for the satisfaction of seeing the Revere family enact vengeance on their enemies. It was filled with enough schemes and double-crossings to bring joy to any fan of a good reverse-robbery. Delavega has created a masterpiece that not only lives up to her first novel, but actually exceeds it. I cannot wait to continue the adventure in the third book.
August 3, 2023
Book 2 of The Revere Trilogy continues the epic begun in Smoke and Other Storms. This is immersive, complex storytelling with characters who are deep, motivated, and dangerous. Highly recommended if you like dark fantasy with a Wild West vibe, but do yourself a favor and begin at the beginning.
In Book 1, the Revere women (Moira “the Raven,” Tesla “the Widow,” Adelaide “the Stranger,” Navy “the Rook,” and Leagan “the Raptor”) were at the top of their game on the lawless Rim Territories, bodyguarding, running cons, and living and smuggling aboard their own train. Book 2 opens after they have suffered devastating losses from an ambitious scheme gone sideways. Adelaide is being held for ransom by an old partner turned enemy, in the hellscape mining town of Hannah, taking revenge one by one on a list of men who have harmed her. Her family is safe for now, but making plans to get her back, while avoiding the bounty hunters on their tail. To make it work, they will have to accept help from a skilled new ally … or is he?
The characters really make this series—they do awful things, but their motivations are clear and righteous (at least to them). They are sympathetic, fully developed, extremely capable but flawed. Adelaide and Tesla take turns narrating in distinct first-person voices. I had no trouble believing they could pull off an epic heist and get away with it. The worldbuilding is also solid, each region and settlement having its own character and legends. Descriptions use fresh, evocative language, whether for beautiful sights or violent horrors. This is a grim, bloody story, but filled with joys, too: family love and loyalty, moonrise over a desert, freedom. I look forward to book 3!
In Book 1, the Revere women (Moira “the Raven,” Tesla “the Widow,” Adelaide “the Stranger,” Navy “the Rook,” and Leagan “the Raptor”) were at the top of their game on the lawless Rim Territories, bodyguarding, running cons, and living and smuggling aboard their own train. Book 2 opens after they have suffered devastating losses from an ambitious scheme gone sideways. Adelaide is being held for ransom by an old partner turned enemy, in the hellscape mining town of Hannah, taking revenge one by one on a list of men who have harmed her. Her family is safe for now, but making plans to get her back, while avoiding the bounty hunters on their tail. To make it work, they will have to accept help from a skilled new ally … or is he?
The characters really make this series—they do awful things, but their motivations are clear and righteous (at least to them). They are sympathetic, fully developed, extremely capable but flawed. Adelaide and Tesla take turns narrating in distinct first-person voices. I had no trouble believing they could pull off an epic heist and get away with it. The worldbuilding is also solid, each region and settlement having its own character and legends. Descriptions use fresh, evocative language, whether for beautiful sights or violent horrors. This is a grim, bloody story, but filled with joys, too: family love and loyalty, moonrise over a desert, freedom. I look forward to book 3!
May 9, 2025
What. A. Ride.
Remind me never to piss off the Revere sisters.
After their violent separation at the end of book 1, the Revere sisters have been stuck apart-Adelaide on her own, surviving along with the Stranger, waiting in the shadows for a chance at vengeance, while the remaining ladies are working on how to get back to her. What starts as a journey as well as a fight to reunite, becomes much more complex as the ladies plan, scam, and bewilder enemies in the quest to get back to each other.
What I love so much about this book, and this series, is that these women are unapologetically strong and in-charge. The action is non-stop. The moves are clever. And the ladies are captivating. They’re vulnerabilities lie in their love for each other…everyone else who has crossed them is expendable. The story is at once fantastical, in the dystopian Western setting of the Rim, while also being completely contemporary, with an appropriate take on (or maybe sneer towards) our current society. It’s good to see those who have been mistreated and betrayed get to shoot some guns.
For anyone who has ever wanted revenge…
Remind me never to piss off the Revere sisters.
After their violent separation at the end of book 1, the Revere sisters have been stuck apart-Adelaide on her own, surviving along with the Stranger, waiting in the shadows for a chance at vengeance, while the remaining ladies are working on how to get back to her. What starts as a journey as well as a fight to reunite, becomes much more complex as the ladies plan, scam, and bewilder enemies in the quest to get back to each other.
What I love so much about this book, and this series, is that these women are unapologetically strong and in-charge. The action is non-stop. The moves are clever. And the ladies are captivating. They’re vulnerabilities lie in their love for each other…everyone else who has crossed them is expendable. The story is at once fantastical, in the dystopian Western setting of the Rim, while also being completely contemporary, with an appropriate take on (or maybe sneer towards) our current society. It’s good to see those who have been mistreated and betrayed get to shoot some guns.
For anyone who has ever wanted revenge…
August 9, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"And one day, a woman will come for you. She may be a Widow, or a Stranger, a Raptor, or possibly a Rook, but her name will be Revere."
I had the opportunity to read the ARC of the second book in the Revere Trilogy, Ash Like Vengeance, by J.L. Delavega, and it surpassed all expectations. The first one was incredible, but this one was absolutely brilliant... and bloody. Very bloody.
To sum it up in a single word: alkaline.
This book is even grittier than the first one, and even more ruthless. It picks up where we left off in the first one, and launches straight into absolute mayhem. It follows Adelaide and Tesla through their adventures, with more back story, banter, and the epic lawlessness of the Rim. The femininity ruggedness continues in full force, and I am here for it. I love these badass women, the protectors of the Rim.
Please read these books. I'm begging you! And by the way -- Alkaline means excellent.
Ash Like Vengeance is released TODAY!! Go grab it, and immerse yourself in the brutal desert with the Revere women!
Welcome to the Rim.
...again💀
"And one day, a woman will come for you. She may be a Widow, or a Stranger, a Raptor, or possibly a Rook, but her name will be Revere."
I had the opportunity to read the ARC of the second book in the Revere Trilogy, Ash Like Vengeance, by J.L. Delavega, and it surpassed all expectations. The first one was incredible, but this one was absolutely brilliant... and bloody. Very bloody.
To sum it up in a single word: alkaline.
This book is even grittier than the first one, and even more ruthless. It picks up where we left off in the first one, and launches straight into absolute mayhem. It follows Adelaide and Tesla through their adventures, with more back story, banter, and the epic lawlessness of the Rim. The femininity ruggedness continues in full force, and I am here for it. I love these badass women, the protectors of the Rim.
Please read these books. I'm begging you! And by the way -- Alkaline means excellent.
Ash Like Vengeance is released TODAY!! Go grab it, and immerse yourself in the brutal desert with the Revere women!
Welcome to the Rim.
...again💀
October 10, 2023
A bloody, brutal, beautiful sequel to a brilliant Steampunk-ish Fantasy Western.
(Crystalpunk? Sootpunk? Alkalinepunk?) The fact that I can't quite name the subgenre is a tribute to just how unique this series is.
This book had everything I loved about Smoke and Other Storms, only doubled. It's told in dual POV from the perspectives of Adelaide "the Stranger" and Tesla "the Widow" as they cope with the grief and seek vengeance for the events of book one. The prose drips sentiment, 90% of it desperate and vicious, and the characters are every bit as tough and clever as their harsh environment demands. Speaking of, Delavega paints crystalline pictures of the bleak backdrops, making each a character in its own right.
Onto a more personal opinion: I appreciated how this story delved a little deeper into the worldbuilding than SaOS did, and that Leagan gets more page time. (She's my favorite, okay?)
I'll keep wholeheartedly recommending this series, and I'm looking forward to book three!
(Crystalpunk? Sootpunk? Alkalinepunk?) The fact that I can't quite name the subgenre is a tribute to just how unique this series is.
This book had everything I loved about Smoke and Other Storms, only doubled. It's told in dual POV from the perspectives of Adelaide "the Stranger" and Tesla "the Widow" as they cope with the grief and seek vengeance for the events of book one. The prose drips sentiment, 90% of it desperate and vicious, and the characters are every bit as tough and clever as their harsh environment demands. Speaking of, Delavega paints crystalline pictures of the bleak backdrops, making each a character in its own right.
Onto a more personal opinion: I appreciated how this story delved a little deeper into the worldbuilding than SaOS did, and that Leagan gets more page time. (She's my favorite, okay?)
I'll keep wholeheartedly recommending this series, and I'm looking forward to book three!
April 25, 2024
The follow-up to a brilliant first book of the series, this doesn't disappoint. Here, the author delves deeply into the inner workings of the characters. The actions are there but it is the thoughts that drive them that carry the meaning.
The rich detail done in intricate fashion makes this a book you can sink your teeth into. There are times when you feel you are trying to survive on the rim yourself.
Ash is still my fave character. She is both the person you wouldn't want to meet in an alley but at the same time, you would want to be on your side in that same alley. Her acts of justice are wonderfully done and made me cheer aloud.
A book that just keeps the reader eager for the continuation of this tale. The third book can't get into my hands fast enough. Fans of the first book will love this book. Fans of strong female leads will simply love this book. An excellent part two and I can't wait for part three.
My rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mr. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
The rich detail done in intricate fashion makes this a book you can sink your teeth into. There are times when you feel you are trying to survive on the rim yourself.
Ash is still my fave character. She is both the person you wouldn't want to meet in an alley but at the same time, you would want to be on your side in that same alley. Her acts of justice are wonderfully done and made me cheer aloud.
A book that just keeps the reader eager for the continuation of this tale. The third book can't get into my hands fast enough. Fans of the first book will love this book. Fans of strong female leads will simply love this book. An excellent part two and I can't wait for part three.
My rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mr. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
August 17, 2023
“This is my story, and I will not make it one about grief. I prefer love, nice clothes, and a respectable amount of blood.”
Welcome to the rim… again.
Ash Like Vengeance is the second instalment in The Reveres Trilogy. It starts where Smoke and Other Storms leaves off and we follow Adelaide and Tesla this time around on their adventures! Adelaide is such a badass! Love her!
The first one was incredible, but this one was absolutely brilliant, darker and bloodier.
The characters really make this series: They are sympathetic, fully developed, extremely capable but flawed, very complex but so real, they do awful things, but their motivations are clear and righteous (at least to them). To say I was holding my breath while reading this story is an understatement. Each page packed a ruthless and bloody punch that had me on the edge of my seat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Welcome to the rim… again.
Ash Like Vengeance is the second instalment in The Reveres Trilogy. It starts where Smoke and Other Storms leaves off and we follow Adelaide and Tesla this time around on their adventures! Adelaide is such a badass! Love her!
The first one was incredible, but this one was absolutely brilliant, darker and bloodier.
The characters really make this series: They are sympathetic, fully developed, extremely capable but flawed, very complex but so real, they do awful things, but their motivations are clear and righteous (at least to them). To say I was holding my breath while reading this story is an understatement. Each page packed a ruthless and bloody punch that had me on the edge of my seat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2023
"A woman will be the last thing you see. Even if it's not me, her name will be Revere."
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book was everything I hoped for and so much more. It picks up right where Smoke & Other Storms left off. What's left of the Revere family are scattered and dealing with their grief and plotting their vengeance. I loved Adelaide's POV but I think I was more drawn to Tesla this go around. I liked being able to see her become the matron of the family and all the pieces she moved around the board to get them all back together. There were several moments that had me choked up, ones that made me audibly gasp, a light splash of spice (which was unexpected but extremely well written), and moments where I was screaming "YES!"
The way Delavega writes has you hanging on until the very end, on the edge of your seat until you see how how everything ties together. She's a masterful storyteller & and has proved it again with the second book in the Revere Trilogy. I can't wait to see how it ends (though I will be sad to say my final goodbyes to the Reveres & the Rim).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book was everything I hoped for and so much more. It picks up right where Smoke & Other Storms left off. What's left of the Revere family are scattered and dealing with their grief and plotting their vengeance. I loved Adelaide's POV but I think I was more drawn to Tesla this go around. I liked being able to see her become the matron of the family and all the pieces she moved around the board to get them all back together. There were several moments that had me choked up, ones that made me audibly gasp, a light splash of spice (which was unexpected but extremely well written), and moments where I was screaming "YES!"
The way Delavega writes has you hanging on until the very end, on the edge of your seat until you see how how everything ties together. She's a masterful storyteller & and has proved it again with the second book in the Revere Trilogy. I can't wait to see how it ends (though I will be sad to say my final goodbyes to the Reveres & the Rim).
February 24, 2024
After the events of the first book, I was definitely curious to see where we'd pick up with the Revere Family.
This book added an entirely new layer to everyone in a way I didn't expect, and I LOVED IT!
Even more raw than before, this story will give you all the feels.
If you've read SaoS, then you NEED to read ALV.
Because I said so.
This book added an entirely new layer to everyone in a way I didn't expect, and I LOVED IT!
Even more raw than before, this story will give you all the feels.
If you've read SaoS, then you NEED to read ALV.
Because I said so.
December 4, 2025
This book was awesome! The characters are mesmerizing and the story is riveting. I didn’t want to put the book down as I kept wanting to read what happens next. There is more than one FMC’s and they all are strong minded, brave, and just plain savages when they have to be. I can’t wait to read the final book of this trilogy.
August 8, 2023
⭐️ARC Review⭐️
“This is my story, and I will not make it one about grief. I prefer love, nice clothes, and a respectable amount of blood.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ash Like vengeance is the second installment in The Reveres Trilogy. To say I was holding my breath while reading this story is an understatement. Each page packed ruthless and bloody punch that had me on the edge of my seat. Welcome to the rim… again.
“Don’t be sorry. Be better.”
This story picks up where
smoke and other storms leaves off. We follow Adelaide and Tesla this time around on their adventures and they waste no time getting into chaos! I am absolutely obsessed with Adelaide, she is such a badass. Following her on this journey of self discovery, love, and trust was an incredibly bloody ride.
As absolutely ruthless as this story is there is so much banter, tenderness,and meaningful interaction between characters. Delavega writes in the mostly intensely beautiful (and bloody) way and to really understand you have to read her work.
“This is my story, and I will not make it one about grief. I prefer love, nice clothes, and a respectable amount of blood.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ash Like vengeance is the second installment in The Reveres Trilogy. To say I was holding my breath while reading this story is an understatement. Each page packed ruthless and bloody punch that had me on the edge of my seat. Welcome to the rim… again.
“Don’t be sorry. Be better.”
This story picks up where
smoke and other storms leaves off. We follow Adelaide and Tesla this time around on their adventures and they waste no time getting into chaos! I am absolutely obsessed with Adelaide, she is such a badass. Following her on this journey of self discovery, love, and trust was an incredibly bloody ride.
As absolutely ruthless as this story is there is so much banter, tenderness,and meaningful interaction between characters. Delavega writes in the mostly intensely beautiful (and bloody) way and to really understand you have to read her work.
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