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Ghosts of Rheynia: A Dark Fantasy Novel From The World of A Vengeful Realm
Blood magic. Betrayal. Rebellion.
Two sisters on opposite sides must unite to survive.
Or watch their world fall to ruin.
"Divided, ruin will reign."
That was what the Order preached to unite the people against the undying—the same mantra the rebels used to rally against the Skeleton King’s tyrannical rule.
But for estranged sisters Threyna and Laela, forced unity might be even more disastrous than division.
Ten years after losing everything, Threyna is now a hardened rebel. After acquiring the Skeleton King’s cursed blood magic, she has vowed to overthrow his corrupt rule, even if it costs her soul. Laela, once her ally, has abandoned the doomed rebellion, preparing to lead a mass exodus from the cursed island in search of new beginnings.
But even with blood magic, if Threyna is to defeat the Skeleton King and his legions, she will need the aid of Laela and her people. Now reunited, with legionaries bearing down on them and the undying impeding their every step, the two sisters must overcome their painful past. Yet whether they fight or flee, they must do so together.
Because divided, ruin will reign.
"The sister-sister dynamic of Arcane in an undead world."
"Like Frozen but oh, so dark!"
Two sisters on opposite sides must unite to survive.
Or watch their world fall to ruin.
"Divided, ruin will reign."
That was what the Order preached to unite the people against the undying—the same mantra the rebels used to rally against the Skeleton King’s tyrannical rule.
But for estranged sisters Threyna and Laela, forced unity might be even more disastrous than division.
Ten years after losing everything, Threyna is now a hardened rebel. After acquiring the Skeleton King’s cursed blood magic, she has vowed to overthrow his corrupt rule, even if it costs her soul. Laela, once her ally, has abandoned the doomed rebellion, preparing to lead a mass exodus from the cursed island in search of new beginnings.
But even with blood magic, if Threyna is to defeat the Skeleton King and his legions, she will need the aid of Laela and her people. Now reunited, with legionaries bearing down on them and the undying impeding their every step, the two sisters must overcome their painful past. Yet whether they fight or flee, they must do so together.
Because divided, ruin will reign.
"The sister-sister dynamic of Arcane in an undead world."
"Like Frozen but oh, so dark!"
- GenresFantasy
640 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2025
17 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Tim Facciola
9 books70 followersWhen Tim isn’t writing epic fantasy, he can often be found in his garage-gym or in the mountains where he lives. A virtual fitness professional by trade, he integrates his creative passions into movement, training with maces, clubs, staves, and swords to unlock his inner gladiator.
More than writing, reading, gaming, playing music, hiking, and paddle-boarding, Tim loves story. If he’s not working on his own story, he’s helping others develop theirs as an author coach.
Living in Arizona with his wife, Colleen, Tim continues writing epic fantasy novels while exploring different storytelling mediums so he can inspire others to hope. To live. And to believe.
More than writing, reading, gaming, playing music, hiking, and paddle-boarding, Tim loves story. If he’s not working on his own story, he’s helping others develop theirs as an author coach.
Living in Arizona with his wife, Colleen, Tim continues writing epic fantasy novels while exploring different storytelling mediums so he can inspire others to hope. To live. And to believe.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 3, 2024
I love this world. Tim Facciola has done it again. This is the prequel to his A Vengeful Realm trilogy, my favorite series of all time. This audiobook did not disappoint. I was captivated throughout the book. Threyna and Laela’s relationship was up and down and their objectives at odds yet I kept rooting for them. Ok, the Skeleton King and who he was took me by surprise, and the Epilogue……Hello Skeleton King! A few more observations, I wanted to wring Taurus’ neck! I was dying when the Skeleton King used the sisters’ mom, the way that he did, and the magic was well done. Tim knows how to write fight scenes well too. And before I give away too many spoilers I want to say the narrator, Landon Soelberg, is the best. How is it possible to do all those voices and keep them straight? And Freya killed the artwork on the cover, yet again. Have I said I love this series yet? Epic Fantasy lovers MUST read this series.
I want to thank the author for providing me a copy of the audiobook. This review is voluntary and heartfelt.
I want to thank the author for providing me a copy of the audiobook. This review is voluntary and heartfelt.
May 27, 2025
I met Tim at a book convention and was convinced to buy and read all of his books. I started with this prequel to the vengeful realm series, and I was not disappointed!
This story follows two estranged sisters who are on a journey to resolve their issues in the hopes of defeating or fleeing the big bad skeleton king.
The plot develops nicely, without any dry points. There are twists and turns, with the last chapter leaving me shook and eager to dive into the main trilogy.
I love a book with a forgotten prophecy/saying/song that is remembered or discovered as the book progresses, as well as powerful quotes to pick out and look back on. This book had plenty of those.
I was pleasantly surprised with the unique magic system, definitely the best use of blood magic I have encountered to date.
The action/fight/battles scenes are truly the highlight of this book. SO well done!
My favorite part of this book is a certain trio of side characters and iykyk. That’s all I’ll say about that ❤️
The only criticism that sticks out to me, is that one of the sisters learns the blood magic too quick/easy and I think that part was rushed, however it makes sense with the action happening. I’m just overlooking it because it’s a fantasy book and not everything needs to make total sense.
I feel like I went into it with high expectations, knowing that most of my favorite books and authors helped inspire Tim’s writing, but overall this book lived up to my expectations.
This story follows two estranged sisters who are on a journey to resolve their issues in the hopes of defeating or fleeing the big bad skeleton king.
The plot develops nicely, without any dry points. There are twists and turns, with the last chapter leaving me shook and eager to dive into the main trilogy.
I love a book with a forgotten prophecy/saying/song that is remembered or discovered as the book progresses, as well as powerful quotes to pick out and look back on. This book had plenty of those.
I was pleasantly surprised with the unique magic system, definitely the best use of blood magic I have encountered to date.
The action/fight/battles scenes are truly the highlight of this book. SO well done!
My favorite part of this book is a certain trio of side characters and iykyk. That’s all I’ll say about that ❤️
The only criticism that sticks out to me, is that one of the sisters learns the blood magic too quick/easy and I think that part was rushed, however it makes sense with the action happening. I’m just overlooking it because it’s a fantasy book and not everything needs to make total sense.
I feel like I went into it with high expectations, knowing that most of my favorite books and authors helped inspire Tim’s writing, but overall this book lived up to my expectations.
December 20, 2024
GOR is a prequel to the “A Vengeful Realm” trilogy (which if you haven’t read it, you DEFINITELY should). This book gave “Arcane” meets “Bloodborne” to me and I’m obsessed. It’s dark, action packed, funny, and the sisters are so well written. I would definitely recommend giving it a read!
March 3, 2026
Tim Facciola promises and delivers a brutal, bleak, and terrifying world in Ghosts of Rheynia. Brutality, blood, and death set the backdrop to generational trauma and pain explored through the lens of two sisters and a veteran soldier.
Carving out a survivalist's existence beneath the ominous threat of a distant Skeleton King, our main cast of characters fight their inevitable doom in their own ways. Some seek to flee, to find refuge in a land across the sea. Others are determined to stand and fight to the last living human falls.
This story's headlong rush begins on page one and doesn't pause for breath until the final word. Filled with tension, the twists and turns hurtle through bloody combat and a slow reveal of past history and hurts.
The worldbuilding was my favorite aspect. The setting felt ominous and present, bleeding off the page. Death and blood magic are tricky beasts to write well, and I thought that they were incorporated well into the story's grim facade. The violence and brutality was ever-present, occasionally veering over the line of gratuitous, but overall matching the expectation set by the story.
The pacing of the story was the element that I struggled with the most. While a fast-paced narrative can be thrilling and gripping, - which this certainly was at many points - without any kind of breath in between to let the characters and reader rest or process the experience it can feel exhausting after a while. Especially in a novel of this length. I would have liked to see a bit more variation in the tension/violence. The plot moved relentlessly, occasionally at the expense of the character growth and relationship motives.
Overall, this book lives up to the promise it makes in the synopsis and on the cover. The two sisters revealing the layers of their family history made a tight thread through the onslaught of death and bloodshed.
Carving out a survivalist's existence beneath the ominous threat of a distant Skeleton King, our main cast of characters fight their inevitable doom in their own ways. Some seek to flee, to find refuge in a land across the sea. Others are determined to stand and fight to the last living human falls.
This story's headlong rush begins on page one and doesn't pause for breath until the final word. Filled with tension, the twists and turns hurtle through bloody combat and a slow reveal of past history and hurts.
The worldbuilding was my favorite aspect. The setting felt ominous and present, bleeding off the page. Death and blood magic are tricky beasts to write well, and I thought that they were incorporated well into the story's grim facade. The violence and brutality was ever-present, occasionally veering over the line of gratuitous, but overall matching the expectation set by the story.
The pacing of the story was the element that I struggled with the most. While a fast-paced narrative can be thrilling and gripping, - which this certainly was at many points - without any kind of breath in between to let the characters and reader rest or process the experience it can feel exhausting after a while. Especially in a novel of this length. I would have liked to see a bit more variation in the tension/violence. The plot moved relentlessly, occasionally at the expense of the character growth and relationship motives.
Overall, this book lives up to the promise it makes in the synopsis and on the cover. The two sisters revealing the layers of their family history made a tight thread through the onslaught of death and bloodshed.
December 10, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest and true review.
I read this after the Vengeful Realm series and while it is very much also a stand alone book, I got so much out of it reading from a prequel perspective. I was so excited to delve into the origin story of Threyna and discover how her personality had evolved.
The politics and history behind the rebels division and fight against the skeleton king and his legions was so intense, and for awhile there I wasn’t sure which side I was rooting for. The characters were well developed and believable. I could feel the characters moral compasses swinging wildly in desperation and it had me on the edge of my seat for most of the book.
Tim does battle scenes like no other. He manages to pull you in and make you sweat in anticipation while turning the pages. The raw visceral scenes were delivered masterfully and artfully.
I loved how the tone of the book was full of hopelessness and yet brings you to a place of hope in the conclusion. What a fantastic read yet again.
"Divided, ruin will reign."
I read this after the Vengeful Realm series and while it is very much also a stand alone book, I got so much out of it reading from a prequel perspective. I was so excited to delve into the origin story of Threyna and discover how her personality had evolved.
The politics and history behind the rebels division and fight against the skeleton king and his legions was so intense, and for awhile there I wasn’t sure which side I was rooting for. The characters were well developed and believable. I could feel the characters moral compasses swinging wildly in desperation and it had me on the edge of my seat for most of the book.
Tim does battle scenes like no other. He manages to pull you in and make you sweat in anticipation while turning the pages. The raw visceral scenes were delivered masterfully and artfully.
I loved how the tone of the book was full of hopelessness and yet brings you to a place of hope in the conclusion. What a fantastic read yet again.
"Divided, ruin will reign."
November 7, 2024
4.5⭐️ 0🌶️
GOR is a dark fantasy with spooky elements, epic fantasy vibes with multiple povs. I loved it, it was a good read! It’s full of action, character development and growth, dark and grey characters, spooky elements and mysteries.
If you like epic and dark fantasy, with some spooky elements, this book might be for you! There’s battles, war, blood magic, a fantasy/horror-like dying dystopian world, survival of the fittest, ghosts/zombie-like (undead) creatures, high stakes, friendships and sisterhood.
It’s truly a great read. If you haven’t read the main series (A Vengeful Realm), I’d personally recommend to read this book first, it’s a prequel and you could avoid spoilers for the end if you don’t know what happens in AVR, but if you follow my advice you might miss some smaller Easter eggs. It depends on what you prefer I guess :)
I received an ARC copy, but all opinions are my own.
GOR is a dark fantasy with spooky elements, epic fantasy vibes with multiple povs. I loved it, it was a good read! It’s full of action, character development and growth, dark and grey characters, spooky elements and mysteries.
If you like epic and dark fantasy, with some spooky elements, this book might be for you! There’s battles, war, blood magic, a fantasy/horror-like dying dystopian world, survival of the fittest, ghosts/zombie-like (undead) creatures, high stakes, friendships and sisterhood.
It’s truly a great read. If you haven’t read the main series (A Vengeful Realm), I’d personally recommend to read this book first, it’s a prequel and you could avoid spoilers for the end if you don’t know what happens in AVR, but if you follow my advice you might miss some smaller Easter eggs. It depends on what you prefer I guess :)
I received an ARC copy, but all opinions are my own.
December 30, 2024
More than a gripping and dark fantasy tale - making you as the reader self-reflect right from page one, while telling a story that keeps you turning the page or listening through (I have done both versions).
Ghosts of Rheynia is a prequel book set in the world of A Vengeful Realm.
It is not very often when you find a book or series that challenges your perception of what is right or wrong in such a gripping and heart wrenching way. This particular book pulls you in and examines the "why" from multiple points of view. This multi layered perspective gives the reader an understanding of the generational trauma that makes it incredibly hard to be angry at any one situation or person for very long while painting vivid picture in your minds eye of the desperation and despair of a world crashing down around you.
Tim Facciola creates a fantastic and gripping world while confronting very real facets of human nature that each of us experience on a daily basis through every stage of life.
If you are a fan of dark fantasy, filled with blood magic, a wide divide, epic fights and pure heartache then this is a must read.
If you read this before AVR, don't worry you'll be set up for the adventure that is to come. If you've already read AVR, be ready for call backs and well placed moments that pull you back to some very key moments of adventures you've already been on.
Ghosts of Rheynia is a prequel book set in the world of A Vengeful Realm.
It is not very often when you find a book or series that challenges your perception of what is right or wrong in such a gripping and heart wrenching way. This particular book pulls you in and examines the "why" from multiple points of view. This multi layered perspective gives the reader an understanding of the generational trauma that makes it incredibly hard to be angry at any one situation or person for very long while painting vivid picture in your minds eye of the desperation and despair of a world crashing down around you.
Tim Facciola creates a fantastic and gripping world while confronting very real facets of human nature that each of us experience on a daily basis through every stage of life.
If you are a fan of dark fantasy, filled with blood magic, a wide divide, epic fights and pure heartache then this is a must read.
If you read this before AVR, don't worry you'll be set up for the adventure that is to come. If you've already read AVR, be ready for call backs and well placed moments that pull you back to some very key moments of adventures you've already been on.
January 12, 2025
This story is the prequel to the authors series, A Vengeful Realm. I own the books but have not read them yet. I was given an opportunity to obtain and Advanced Reader’s Copy of this piece. And let me just say…What. A. Journey.
The author indicated to me that it can be read as a standalone and as I had not read the AVR series first, I would not get lost. This is very true. Reading the other three books first is a not a prerequisite to fully understand the story, plot, or the characters.
The author is very clear and vivid in painting a very clear picture of the characters; their characteristics, emotion, and how they would react to certain situations.
The writing of this story is very smooth and flows naturally. I left wanting more at the end of each chapter. In my experience, this fantasy is fast-paced and doesn’t stop. You can picture everything that is happening down to the last detail.
I went through this book snickering, rooting, and crying. There are many emotions you will feel as you follow the journey of two sisters, Threyna and Leala.
You watch these characters go through personal trials and traumas. They were written well to where I felt they were very relatable and real.
Bravo, Tim! This book is a masterpiece and I cannot wait to dive into the original three books…because I want to know what happens now!!
This book releases on 1/21/25. Order it! You will love it!
Let’s go!
The author indicated to me that it can be read as a standalone and as I had not read the AVR series first, I would not get lost. This is very true. Reading the other three books first is a not a prerequisite to fully understand the story, plot, or the characters.
The author is very clear and vivid in painting a very clear picture of the characters; their characteristics, emotion, and how they would react to certain situations.
The writing of this story is very smooth and flows naturally. I left wanting more at the end of each chapter. In my experience, this fantasy is fast-paced and doesn’t stop. You can picture everything that is happening down to the last detail.
I went through this book snickering, rooting, and crying. There are many emotions you will feel as you follow the journey of two sisters, Threyna and Leala.
You watch these characters go through personal trials and traumas. They were written well to where I felt they were very relatable and real.
Bravo, Tim! This book is a masterpiece and I cannot wait to dive into the original three books…because I want to know what happens now!!
This book releases on 1/21/25. Order it! You will love it!
Let’s go!
January 20, 2025
There is no easy way to put this into words, for the emotions this story envokes, the tension it created that had me on the edge of my seat...
But to try to put it simply, I have related to characters before, but o have never related to characters on a level like this. The trials of family, and the past that lords over your head, this hit home for me.
If you are looking for something that takes place in a dark, cruel twisted land, where the dead LITTERALLY haunt your every step, where sister are at odds with how to save their friends and family from am unrelenting Darkness look no further.
But to try to put it simply, I have related to characters before, but o have never related to characters on a level like this. The trials of family, and the past that lords over your head, this hit home for me.
If you are looking for something that takes place in a dark, cruel twisted land, where the dead LITTERALLY haunt your every step, where sister are at odds with how to save their friends and family from am unrelenting Darkness look no further.
January 18, 2025
Ghosts of Rheynia is a prequel to the A Vengeful Realm Trilogy and, while you do not need to have read it to enjoy this book, you should absolutely read the series! Before or after, it doesn’t matter--just go read it! As a fan of the trilogy, it was enjoyable to find the little Easter eggs hidden within Ghosts of Rheynia.
Told from multiple perspectives, this dark and heavy story is packed with dread and hopelessness but never lets you lose that tiny glimmer of hope you can cling to. I was able to completely empathize with each character. I could feel their pain, sadness, and understand their anger and hatred. No matter which point of view, you find yourself agreeing with that character's thoughts and actions, even if it directly opposes the previous character you just believed to be right.
Tim Facciola’s novels should be on every fantasy lovers TBR list. I’m always looking forward to what he comes out with next!
Shout out to Landon Soelberg for his amazing audiobook narration! He set the bar high for any future books I listen to on audio.
Told from multiple perspectives, this dark and heavy story is packed with dread and hopelessness but never lets you lose that tiny glimmer of hope you can cling to. I was able to completely empathize with each character. I could feel their pain, sadness, and understand their anger and hatred. No matter which point of view, you find yourself agreeing with that character's thoughts and actions, even if it directly opposes the previous character you just believed to be right.
Tim Facciola’s novels should be on every fantasy lovers TBR list. I’m always looking forward to what he comes out with next!
Shout out to Landon Soelberg for his amazing audiobook narration! He set the bar high for any future books I listen to on audio.
November 23, 2024
This one was a whole lot of what the fuck is even happening right now to I can't believe that happening tears.
The story of these sister in the prequel to before The Vengeful Realm series was amazing. Every single characters actions males sense for the information they have at any given time. I was rooting for everyone even though they were all in nearly direct opposition of eachother and that is so.ething I've rnever read in a book before.
Tim is truly a master in the craft of character development and writing each character story to blend seamlessly into the bigger arc that we get. I loved cheering everyone on even though we lost so much for all of them. This is what I needed to read! Also makes me see the Vengeful Realm series in a totally differ3 light for these characters.
The story of these sister in the prequel to before The Vengeful Realm series was amazing. Every single characters actions males sense for the information they have at any given time. I was rooting for everyone even though they were all in nearly direct opposition of eachother and that is so.ething I've rnever read in a book before.
Tim is truly a master in the craft of character development and writing each character story to blend seamlessly into the bigger arc that we get. I loved cheering everyone on even though we lost so much for all of them. This is what I needed to read! Also makes me see the Vengeful Realm series in a totally differ3 light for these characters.
January 14, 2025
From the forward and the very first line in the prologue, I knew I was in for a turbulent, emotional upheaval of a read so I was prepared. What I wasn't prepared for was the accuracy this author portrayed, the anxiety, the realism, stark and exposed. The prose, the story, the plot, the characters, sunk into me, every word hitting hard, every event slamming into me, striking every cord.
A father's sacrifice for his daughters has unexpected results, one of which is, instead of being united, the 2 sisters are at odds, fighting on opposite sides. Both believe they are with the just faction but here's where it gets shady. Which is the right side? Who is in the right? Perceptions , trauma, personal experiences and indoctrination are just that, personal. I was veering towards one party, then the other, doubting even myself, the lines blurry. THAT'S how brilliantly this author conveys his message, his outstanding tale, that not everything is cut and dry. Characters pop, sublimely, and some were likeable from the start, others evoked a strong dislike. Like Belrich who is despicable! Uncaring, unaffected by suffering, pompous, arrogant, just an awful awful person after only one thing....besides his greed for domination over all! By the end of the book, it was a toss up for me as to who the villain is, who the evil is and I came to the conclusion that Arilette is just as evil, if not more than Belrich. Oh golly poor Dracus! I really felt for Dracus, what a burden he carried for many many years, what an existence, and just when he thought it couldn't get worse, it flipping got WAY worse! Sisters Threyna and Laela, on opposite sides, both with misconceived ideas of the other, both strong, both dedicated, both wanting to help. Of the 2 sisters, I "felt" more for Threyna than for Laela, who, initially, came across unyielding, dogmatically petulant, resentful of her sister. The why was vividly portrayed by the author, a new understanding of her, of her behaviour, emerged the more I read. Seeing her reluctant metamorphosis was fabulous, although, it sure took a heck of a long time to get there, the beauty is, she did. As did Threyna, as the scales fell from her eyes, all she believed, all she'd been indoctrinated with, crumbled to ashes. Threyna had one burning motivation, to find and save her father but there was far more at stake, and she unwittingly released an entity that was entirely too strong, and coveted by others. Her journey was far from easy, her journey was full of peril, her journey was one only a personality as dedicated and strong as she could traverse. And one scene, between Threyna and Laela, I'm not ashamed to say, tears filled my eyes. In this bleak and desolate world, a desperate world, where everything fights for survival, lies are exposed, truths are revealed and both Threyna and Laela are left reeling by the revelations but just can't seem to find common ground, suspicion, jealously, mistrust yes, but to be stronger together, well shoot, that's challenging! The quote, "Divided, ruin will reign" was never truer. But geez did my adrenaline spike with what Threyna was subjected to, what she endured at the hands of the Order, my heart pounded so hard, it threatened to explode right out my chest, Sigourney Weaver style.... when that particular crises was over, I collapsed back into my chair, unaware I had sat upright in the horror. Tim does this almost imperturbably, systematically, unrepentantly, drawing out every scene opulently descriptive and oh so hairy! And let me tell you, there are TONNES of those! What superb penmanship! What superb control of the narrative!
I absolutely love a multiple POV and this esteemed author is a master at character depiction and development, he fills them out to perfection, even the Shades have depth! The dead, the undead, the living, even blood magic, all converge, all have a stake in this story, albeit very different in nature. The cast is large, but all are easy to grasp, to set apart, the motives however, are profoundly convoluted and hidden under layers of subterfuge, delicately concealing the truth, but truth will out and when it does, beware the shrapnel! This is not a light hearted read, this is an intricate plot, gloriously, decadently dark, that made my blood bubble from the pressure, the heart stopping moments. The action, OMG was the action impressively real and charged like dynamite about to ignite. And then the author ramped it up even more...Fawkes...Dracus...., I was imploding from the angst! A richly crafted plot, the punctilious storytelling, with characters as diverse as any I've come across, this superb story winds and veers like a long road, with surprises round every corner, quite literally, left me agog. That final battle, OMG, it dried up all the saliva in my mouth....Tim lays the building blocks of this world with precision, reach higher and higher with every stroke, meticulous in detail and depth. It's gory, yes, at times; it's gruesome, yes, at times but it's glorious in it's depth, in it's peeling away layer upon layer, exposing wants, needs, lies, manipulations; survival is the aim and gore is the consequence. A great read? Nah, outstanding! A fitting and intense prelude to a magnificent series and if you haven't read the A Vengeful Realm, you should, you really should!
A father's sacrifice for his daughters has unexpected results, one of which is, instead of being united, the 2 sisters are at odds, fighting on opposite sides. Both believe they are with the just faction but here's where it gets shady. Which is the right side? Who is in the right? Perceptions , trauma, personal experiences and indoctrination are just that, personal. I was veering towards one party, then the other, doubting even myself, the lines blurry. THAT'S how brilliantly this author conveys his message, his outstanding tale, that not everything is cut and dry. Characters pop, sublimely, and some were likeable from the start, others evoked a strong dislike. Like Belrich who is despicable! Uncaring, unaffected by suffering, pompous, arrogant, just an awful awful person after only one thing....besides his greed for domination over all! By the end of the book, it was a toss up for me as to who the villain is, who the evil is and I came to the conclusion that Arilette is just as evil, if not more than Belrich. Oh golly poor Dracus! I really felt for Dracus, what a burden he carried for many many years, what an existence, and just when he thought it couldn't get worse, it flipping got WAY worse! Sisters Threyna and Laela, on opposite sides, both with misconceived ideas of the other, both strong, both dedicated, both wanting to help. Of the 2 sisters, I "felt" more for Threyna than for Laela, who, initially, came across unyielding, dogmatically petulant, resentful of her sister. The why was vividly portrayed by the author, a new understanding of her, of her behaviour, emerged the more I read. Seeing her reluctant metamorphosis was fabulous, although, it sure took a heck of a long time to get there, the beauty is, she did. As did Threyna, as the scales fell from her eyes, all she believed, all she'd been indoctrinated with, crumbled to ashes. Threyna had one burning motivation, to find and save her father but there was far more at stake, and she unwittingly released an entity that was entirely too strong, and coveted by others. Her journey was far from easy, her journey was full of peril, her journey was one only a personality as dedicated and strong as she could traverse. And one scene, between Threyna and Laela, I'm not ashamed to say, tears filled my eyes. In this bleak and desolate world, a desperate world, where everything fights for survival, lies are exposed, truths are revealed and both Threyna and Laela are left reeling by the revelations but just can't seem to find common ground, suspicion, jealously, mistrust yes, but to be stronger together, well shoot, that's challenging! The quote, "Divided, ruin will reign" was never truer. But geez did my adrenaline spike with what Threyna was subjected to, what she endured at the hands of the Order, my heart pounded so hard, it threatened to explode right out my chest, Sigourney Weaver style.... when that particular crises was over, I collapsed back into my chair, unaware I had sat upright in the horror. Tim does this almost imperturbably, systematically, unrepentantly, drawing out every scene opulently descriptive and oh so hairy! And let me tell you, there are TONNES of those! What superb penmanship! What superb control of the narrative!
I absolutely love a multiple POV and this esteemed author is a master at character depiction and development, he fills them out to perfection, even the Shades have depth! The dead, the undead, the living, even blood magic, all converge, all have a stake in this story, albeit very different in nature. The cast is large, but all are easy to grasp, to set apart, the motives however, are profoundly convoluted and hidden under layers of subterfuge, delicately concealing the truth, but truth will out and when it does, beware the shrapnel! This is not a light hearted read, this is an intricate plot, gloriously, decadently dark, that made my blood bubble from the pressure, the heart stopping moments. The action, OMG was the action impressively real and charged like dynamite about to ignite. And then the author ramped it up even more...Fawkes...Dracus...., I was imploding from the angst! A richly crafted plot, the punctilious storytelling, with characters as diverse as any I've come across, this superb story winds and veers like a long road, with surprises round every corner, quite literally, left me agog. That final battle, OMG, it dried up all the saliva in my mouth....Tim lays the building blocks of this world with precision, reach higher and higher with every stroke, meticulous in detail and depth. It's gory, yes, at times; it's gruesome, yes, at times but it's glorious in it's depth, in it's peeling away layer upon layer, exposing wants, needs, lies, manipulations; survival is the aim and gore is the consequence. A great read? Nah, outstanding! A fitting and intense prelude to a magnificent series and if you haven't read the A Vengeful Realm, you should, you really should!
January 5, 2025
I read this ARC a bit unconventionally. I didn’t speed through it. I didn’t skip sections. I didn’t finish it in one week. It actually took me 3 months to finish Ghosts of Rheynia. Why?
I had the opportunity to read this book as part of the author’s book club. I’ve never done this before. I’ve never been a part of a book club. I had no expectations. I knew I’d like the book, given that I loved A Vengeful Realm, but the experience of reading it through a book club setting opened my eyes and mind to the deeper meaning behind the story that Tim weaved in Ghosts of Rheynia.
Ghosts of Rheynia follows the story of Threyna, the blood mage from A Vengeful Realm, and one of my more “eh they’re alright” type characters. After reading GoR, I’ll upgrade Threyna to “alright, she’s cool”.
This story isn’t for the faint of heart, as cliché as that sounds. Having talked through this book in detail with the author and other readers, this is a story of generational trauma, baggage, and not very happy endings. The story has as many layers as an onion and will make you cry just as much as you cut through it.
In typical Facciola fashion, there are a plethora of characters that we have the opportunity to spend time with, empathize with, and go to therapy with. My personal favorite was Dracus Alius, ex-Order and the founder of the get-Canton-the-f***- out-of-here committee. My least favorite is probably Arilette, the manipulative pyromaniac. A host of other characters also caught my eye such as Laela, Bherus, Aylenia, Tarus, and Fawkes. oh our *ol boy.*
Reading through the book with the author and other readers present felt a bit like going back to English class, where the teacher would ask us if we found the simile or metaphor on page 47. But this time, there were no wrong answers, no tests, and no 30-minute class time. It was the most open-ended theory-crafting experience I’ve ever had with one book.
The story itself did not go the way I’d expected. Even after reading AVR and understanding what Tim likes to do with his characters and the story, I only predicted 1 thing correctly out of the 158 different theories I had. And I was fine with it. I was fine letting the story take me where it was supposed to go. Although many, many, *many* sections of the story made me angry at Tim, angry at a character, or frustrated at a choice, I was content with how, where, and when it ended. Once again, it’s not for the faint of heart. I’m not an emotional reader but I had to voluntarily put my blinders on so I didn’t get sucked into the trauma-bonding experience that this book takes you on.
A huge thank you to Tim Facciola for inviting me and allowing me to be a part of the book club. The meetings were the highlight of my weeks. Ghosts of Rheynia drops January 20th and you SHOULD be in line to read it.
I had the opportunity to read this book as part of the author’s book club. I’ve never done this before. I’ve never been a part of a book club. I had no expectations. I knew I’d like the book, given that I loved A Vengeful Realm, but the experience of reading it through a book club setting opened my eyes and mind to the deeper meaning behind the story that Tim weaved in Ghosts of Rheynia.
Ghosts of Rheynia follows the story of Threyna, the blood mage from A Vengeful Realm, and one of my more “eh they’re alright” type characters. After reading GoR, I’ll upgrade Threyna to “alright, she’s cool”.
This story isn’t for the faint of heart, as cliché as that sounds. Having talked through this book in detail with the author and other readers, this is a story of generational trauma, baggage, and not very happy endings. The story has as many layers as an onion and will make you cry just as much as you cut through it.
In typical Facciola fashion, there are a plethora of characters that we have the opportunity to spend time with, empathize with, and go to therapy with. My personal favorite was Dracus Alius, ex-Order and the founder of the get-Canton-the-f***- out-of-here committee. My least favorite is probably Arilette, the manipulative pyromaniac. A host of other characters also caught my eye such as Laela, Bherus, Aylenia, Tarus, and Fawkes. oh our *ol boy.*
Reading through the book with the author and other readers present felt a bit like going back to English class, where the teacher would ask us if we found the simile or metaphor on page 47. But this time, there were no wrong answers, no tests, and no 30-minute class time. It was the most open-ended theory-crafting experience I’ve ever had with one book.
The story itself did not go the way I’d expected. Even after reading AVR and understanding what Tim likes to do with his characters and the story, I only predicted 1 thing correctly out of the 158 different theories I had. And I was fine with it. I was fine letting the story take me where it was supposed to go. Although many, many, *many* sections of the story made me angry at Tim, angry at a character, or frustrated at a choice, I was content with how, where, and when it ended. Once again, it’s not for the faint of heart. I’m not an emotional reader but I had to voluntarily put my blinders on so I didn’t get sucked into the trauma-bonding experience that this book takes you on.
A huge thank you to Tim Facciola for inviting me and allowing me to be a part of the book club. The meetings were the highlight of my weeks. Ghosts of Rheynia drops January 20th and you SHOULD be in line to read it.
January 22, 2025
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
This emotional story of two sisters coming together to fight a common enemy will keep you on your toes while ripping your heart out. (In a good way, of course!)
Threyna is a seasoned rebel, and after gaining the Skeleton King's blood magic, she's even more ready to overthrow him. Even at the cost of her own soul. Threyna's sister, Laela, has become an ally once again after abandoning the doomed rebellion she was once a part of. Now, she wants to help lead an exodus beyond the cursed island in search of a new beginning. Even though Threyna now has blood magic on her side, she still needs Laela and her people to help defeat the Skeleton King and his army. Despite everything that has transpired between the sisters, they need to come together in this common goal to have a fighting chance against this corrupt ruler.
Ghosts of Rheynia is a multi-POV prequel to the completed trilogy, A Vengeful Realm. Since I read the trilogy first, I do recommend that route, but it can also easily be read before fully diving into A Vengeful Realm.
This novel focuses on opposing sides coming together to complete a common goal, estranged sisters finding unity after years of division, and standing by the family you choose. It is truly an epic read full of battles and action alongside the emotion and tragedy that accompany war and rebellion. This world is truly one of a kind yet still makes readers contemplate the human condition and experiences we all have throughout our lives.
Ghosts of Rheynia is for readers who love dark and epic fantasy novels, blood magic, and tragic heartbreak.
This emotional story of two sisters coming together to fight a common enemy will keep you on your toes while ripping your heart out. (In a good way, of course!)
Threyna is a seasoned rebel, and after gaining the Skeleton King's blood magic, she's even more ready to overthrow him. Even at the cost of her own soul. Threyna's sister, Laela, has become an ally once again after abandoning the doomed rebellion she was once a part of. Now, she wants to help lead an exodus beyond the cursed island in search of a new beginning. Even though Threyna now has blood magic on her side, she still needs Laela and her people to help defeat the Skeleton King and his army. Despite everything that has transpired between the sisters, they need to come together in this common goal to have a fighting chance against this corrupt ruler.
Ghosts of Rheynia is a multi-POV prequel to the completed trilogy, A Vengeful Realm. Since I read the trilogy first, I do recommend that route, but it can also easily be read before fully diving into A Vengeful Realm.
This novel focuses on opposing sides coming together to complete a common goal, estranged sisters finding unity after years of division, and standing by the family you choose. It is truly an epic read full of battles and action alongside the emotion and tragedy that accompany war and rebellion. This world is truly one of a kind yet still makes readers contemplate the human condition and experiences we all have throughout our lives.
Ghosts of Rheynia is for readers who love dark and epic fantasy novels, blood magic, and tragic heartbreak.
May 30, 2025
I just finished Ghosts of Rheynia and I loved it. If you like dark fantasy with am ominous setting and strong characters, read this book.
The story takes place in the world of A Vengeful Realm, which is full of dark magic, undead creatures, and a tension filled atmosphere. It follows two sisters, Threyna and Laela, who haven’t spoken in years but have to team up again to survive. Threyna is a rebel who wants to reclaim Rheynia, and Laela is trying to lead people to safety off of Rheynia. They’ve both been through a lot. They have a strained relationship, and it's so well written.
The book has everything great about fantasy action, drama, and moments that tug at your heart. The world feels real and creepy in all the best ways. you can picture every scene like you're right there. I couldn’t put it down because I always wanted to know what would happen next. stayed up late to finish it.
Ghosts of Rheynia pulls you in and doesn’t let go. I think the world of A Vengeful Realm is amazing, and this book added so much to it and made me love it even more.
The story takes place in the world of A Vengeful Realm, which is full of dark magic, undead creatures, and a tension filled atmosphere. It follows two sisters, Threyna and Laela, who haven’t spoken in years but have to team up again to survive. Threyna is a rebel who wants to reclaim Rheynia, and Laela is trying to lead people to safety off of Rheynia. They’ve both been through a lot. They have a strained relationship, and it's so well written.
The book has everything great about fantasy action, drama, and moments that tug at your heart. The world feels real and creepy in all the best ways. you can picture every scene like you're right there. I couldn’t put it down because I always wanted to know what would happen next. stayed up late to finish it.
Ghosts of Rheynia pulls you in and doesn’t let go. I think the world of A Vengeful Realm is amazing, and this book added so much to it and made me love it even more.
January 16, 2025
Like many others here, I was fortunate to get an ARC. In return I give an honest review. So here we go.
I have not read any other of Tim's works so this was a first. I have not finished it yet, sadly life has gotten in the way alot. What I have read, fantastic! I'm new into reading as an adult and have fallen deep into the fantasy genre. This is a dark fantasy and I am here for it! I'm not gonna say anymore as I dont know what may be a spoiler haha. I feel for those who like fantasy and dark fantasy give it a try! Lots of mental health thrown in as well and as someone who works in the field I appreciate it.
Special thanks to Tim for this wonderful opportunity, I look forward to finishing this awesome read and his other works!
I have not read any other of Tim's works so this was a first. I have not finished it yet, sadly life has gotten in the way alot. What I have read, fantastic! I'm new into reading as an adult and have fallen deep into the fantasy genre. This is a dark fantasy and I am here for it! I'm not gonna say anymore as I dont know what may be a spoiler haha. I feel for those who like fantasy and dark fantasy give it a try! Lots of mental health thrown in as well and as someone who works in the field I appreciate it.
Special thanks to Tim for this wonderful opportunity, I look forward to finishing this awesome read and his other works!
January 17, 2025
Really enjoyed the pacing of this book. This was my first experience reading one Tim's books and would highly recommend this to any true fantasy lover. It will make you laugh, make you cry, make you angry and then make you feel redeemed all over again. Highly recommend Ghosts of Rheynia. The audiobook is a chef's kiss as welland absolutely fantastic.
January 20, 2025
I gory ghosting loved this book! Facciola creates a brilliant world forcing the characters to navigate cursed lands, sadistic rulers, and the dead. Fast paced and action packed, I loved every minute of it and can't wait to read more from this author. I highly recommend this book!
February 25, 2025
I listened to Ghosts of Rheynia on audible. This book is a very well written Epic dark fantasy with lots of family conflict, dark magic and an endurance never to give up. Ghosts is a prequel to A Vengeful Realm Series which I haven’t read yet, but definitely will be.
November 11, 2025
Dope book! Vengeful realm is my favorite trilogy outside of anything Brandon Sanderson. And I've read 100 books in the last 2-3 years. This book, action packed the whole time! Lots of death. Pretty grim but also full of hope.
sff-ok-bx
June 23, 2025Bx,Rok
January 9, 2025
If I could give this book 10 stars I would!
If you like top notch action, complex characters, and the exploration of hope despite the darkness give this book a read!
You won’t be disappointed!
I loved this book so much and will definitely reread it later this year!
The book is available on audible, the ebook, and physical book coming out January 20th!
If you like top notch action, complex characters, and the exploration of hope despite the darkness give this book a read!
You won’t be disappointed!
I loved this book so much and will definitely reread it later this year!
The book is available on audible, the ebook, and physical book coming out January 20th!
January 15, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Let me start by saying I had no insight into the lore or broader story in this world. I am now aware that this ties directly into another series with some of the characters continuing through to that.
Let me start by saying this was a difficult read for me. It seems like it might have been a good idea to read hoods previous works before as there were several commonplace things that I had to learn through experience. The world building is astounding, it’s fleshed out but I definitely had no prior knowledge and that was apparent.
The story mainly follows two twin sisters with different political affiliations with drastically different goals. They eventually come to be in positions of power with some supernatural or even “holy” powers.
The action is interspersed throughout world building and character building. There were as any heart wrenching moments as there were bloody scenes.
Overall this was a fun read and I’m looking forward to reading more in this world and learning more about the gods and mortals.
Let me start by saying I had no insight into the lore or broader story in this world. I am now aware that this ties directly into another series with some of the characters continuing through to that.
Let me start by saying this was a difficult read for me. It seems like it might have been a good idea to read hoods previous works before as there were several commonplace things that I had to learn through experience. The world building is astounding, it’s fleshed out but I definitely had no prior knowledge and that was apparent.
The story mainly follows two twin sisters with different political affiliations with drastically different goals. They eventually come to be in positions of power with some supernatural or even “holy” powers.
The action is interspersed throughout world building and character building. There were as any heart wrenching moments as there were bloody scenes.
Overall this was a fun read and I’m looking forward to reading more in this world and learning more about the gods and mortals.
January 23, 2025
I haven't read the series A Vengeful Realm so the fact that this is the prequel can be good and bad. I know I missed out on some connections I would have made if I'd read the series first BUT I also was thrown in two feet into the deep world building that Tim writes.
I love a good estranged sister story and this dark and adventurous tale is no joke!
Breaking apart but then coming together for the good of all to, of course, defeat the crazy Skeleton King, their story is both heartbreaking and inspiring!
The characters are rich and well developed and I just plain loved the story.
I'm excited to now pick up where this ends and read The Vengeful Realm!
I was thrilled to receive an ARC of this book and my opinions and thoughts are my own!
I love a good estranged sister story and this dark and adventurous tale is no joke!
Breaking apart but then coming together for the good of all to, of course, defeat the crazy Skeleton King, their story is both heartbreaking and inspiring!
The characters are rich and well developed and I just plain loved the story.
I'm excited to now pick up where this ends and read The Vengeful Realm!
I was thrilled to receive an ARC of this book and my opinions and thoughts are my own!
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews