What do you think?
Rate this book
Death #5
Princess of Death
The Death Series continues with the next generation of dragons and Rothschilds...the ultimate enemies-to-lovers romance.
Twenty four years have passed since Talon and Calista defeated Barron and his sons. The dragons were freed of their mental imprisonment and now they soar proudly in the skies above the Southern Isles.
Twenty four years of peace.
Until Lily Rothschild's galleon sails off course and ends up far to the east...
My parents didn't raise me to be a beautiful princess in a gown. Didn't raise me to sit on the terrace and drink tea and birth children. At twenty-three years old, I'm still unwed and geriatric to most people.
But neither of my parents have ever cared. My mother has always wanted me to live the life that I want. My father raised me like a son. Taught me the sword. How to fish and hunt. How to sail in the dark. And my mother taught me how to speak with dragons.
When I decide to live a life of adventure, I can see the hint of sadness in my father's eyes, the worry that he always wears for me. But he lets me go. Encourages me to live the life that I want without reservation.
It makes me love him all the more.
I set sail with my crew, see white beaches and dense jungle, visit villages across the world, even take a vampire for a lover. But our ship becomes caught in a storm and is blown off course, and I find myself in the one place my father warned me to never visit.
We get stuck on the rocks of an island and have to wait for the tide to rise before we can leave. But this island is strange, everything is dead and the mist is suffocating on the lungs .And then I hear my name, spoken in a voice deep and powerful, an endless echo in my mind. "Lily Rothschild -- come to me."
A behemoth of a man, over six feet tall and with muscles thicker than tree trunks, he stands before me in a midnight blue uniform with a broadsword across his back. With deep brown hair, his eyes are dark like the earth and hard like a tombstone. I know who he is without an introduction.
The God of The Underworld.
"Daughter of Talon Rothschild, King of the Southern Isles, a man who doesn't pay his debts. You shouldn't have come here."
I'm a woman who fears nothing -- but I fear him. My heart races in a way it never has. This is an opponent I could never match. But there's also an indescribable burn between us. Despite how terrifying he is, he's also the most beautiful man I've ever laid eyes on. He stares at me with an intensity and a confidence none of my lovers have ever shown. He can touch me with just his eyes.
The God of the Underworld, the most evil being in our world, makes his demand. "Pay his debt. Or I will come to collect."
He doesn't want my life or my soul. He wants my body underneath his, at his beck and call, a servant to his desires, to take me into his dark bedchamber in his world and visit me in mine. He's the king of demons and I shouldn't want his touch...but I do.
And I want to save my father's soul.
Twenty four years have passed since Talon and Calista defeated Barron and his sons. The dragons were freed of their mental imprisonment and now they soar proudly in the skies above the Southern Isles.
Twenty four years of peace.
Until Lily Rothschild's galleon sails off course and ends up far to the east...
My parents didn't raise me to be a beautiful princess in a gown. Didn't raise me to sit on the terrace and drink tea and birth children. At twenty-three years old, I'm still unwed and geriatric to most people.
But neither of my parents have ever cared. My mother has always wanted me to live the life that I want. My father raised me like a son. Taught me the sword. How to fish and hunt. How to sail in the dark. And my mother taught me how to speak with dragons.
When I decide to live a life of adventure, I can see the hint of sadness in my father's eyes, the worry that he always wears for me. But he lets me go. Encourages me to live the life that I want without reservation.
It makes me love him all the more.
I set sail with my crew, see white beaches and dense jungle, visit villages across the world, even take a vampire for a lover. But our ship becomes caught in a storm and is blown off course, and I find myself in the one place my father warned me to never visit.
We get stuck on the rocks of an island and have to wait for the tide to rise before we can leave. But this island is strange, everything is dead and the mist is suffocating on the lungs .And then I hear my name, spoken in a voice deep and powerful, an endless echo in my mind. "Lily Rothschild -- come to me."
A behemoth of a man, over six feet tall and with muscles thicker than tree trunks, he stands before me in a midnight blue uniform with a broadsword across his back. With deep brown hair, his eyes are dark like the earth and hard like a tombstone. I know who he is without an introduction.
The God of The Underworld.
"Daughter of Talon Rothschild, King of the Southern Isles, a man who doesn't pay his debts. You shouldn't have come here."
I'm a woman who fears nothing -- but I fear him. My heart races in a way it never has. This is an opponent I could never match. But there's also an indescribable burn between us. Despite how terrifying he is, he's also the most beautiful man I've ever laid eyes on. He stares at me with an intensity and a confidence none of my lovers have ever shown. He can touch me with just his eyes.
The God of the Underworld, the most evil being in our world, makes his demand. "Pay his debt. Or I will come to collect."
He doesn't want my life or my soul. He wants my body underneath his, at his beck and call, a servant to his desires, to take me into his dark bedchamber in his world and visit me in mine. He's the king of demons and I shouldn't want his touch...but I do.
And I want to save my father's soul.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 13, 2025
516 people are currently reading
832 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Barsetti
21 books970 followersPenelope Barsetti is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Her beloved novels have sold more than 5 Million copies, and her work has been translated into a dozen languages. Readers may know her by another name, Penelope Sky, where she writes contemporary dark romance.
An avid wine drinker, napper, and Netflix junkie, she lives in California with her family, but if she could live anywhere, it would be Florence, Italy. For those familiar with her work, you’ll know exactly why that’s the case.
Fantasy Romance is her favorite genre to read, and she’s excited to release her own novels into the world.
An avid wine drinker, napper, and Netflix junkie, she lives in California with her family, but if she could live anywhere, it would be Florence, Italy. For those familiar with her work, you’ll know exactly why that’s the case.
Fantasy Romance is her favorite genre to read, and she’s excited to release her own novels into the world.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
June 16, 2025
wish it wrapped up her story
Waited forever and then to be left with a cliffhanger and no notes on when then next will come, the end felt rushed.
Waited forever and then to be left with a cliffhanger and no notes on when then next will come, the end felt rushed.
June 22, 2025
bad ending
Couldn’t believe the 5th book in the series would just stop in the middle of the story like that. It’s not finished and there is not another book for a conclusion. Disappointing.
Couldn’t believe the 5th book in the series would just stop in the middle of the story like that. It’s not finished and there is not another book for a conclusion. Disappointing.
June 9, 2025
Ugh so good, that cliffhanger tho
June 24, 2025
what!!!
I have to wait for another book!!! 💀😭😭😭 I’m crying because I don’t know when !!! I read all 4 book a few months ago and had been waiting for Lily story, and Wrath is everything.
I have to wait for another book!!! 💀😭😭😭 I’m crying because I don’t know when !!! I read all 4 book a few months ago and had been waiting for Lily story, and Wrath is everything.
July 15, 2025
This book was amazing to see what happens 24 years later and the kids are adults. This story highlights Lily Rothschild, the princess of the Southern Isles. Lily and her mother are close and have always been able to talk about anything together except for a secret she has to keep.
Lily and her father are very close but in a bit of a different way. He trains her everyday since she could hold a sword. As an adult he is still training her everyday more and more aggressively to make sure she can defend herself against anyone and anything no matter what size and Maneuvers. At the same time he taught her how to sail any type of boat. She was not fused with her dragon Zehemoth, but can speak with dragons like her parents can. Her parents won’t let her fuse with the dragon until she’s older.
Lilly is the next in line to take over for Talon as Queen. Lily is unsettled about her life, if she wants to become Queen and doesn’t know what to do. So she sets sail with her own crew with her parents blessing and with the stipulation that she stays away from a specific place. Lilly sets sail on her voyage with Captain Hartshire and her crew. She loves the adventures she’s had on her voyage.
Everything went well until there were storms ahead. Lily knew how to read the weather and how to get around the bad storm that is headed right for them. She told the captain that they should turn the ship to avoid the storm but he wouldn’t listen because he felt he had more experience and knowledge and that they could get through it. They went through the storm and got stuck on rocks at the place her father made her promise not to go. Lily and what was left of her crew got to work on repairing the ship. She comes upon this very tall, sexy and muscular man. He knew exactly who she was and all about her family. He told her he knows everything because he is the God of the Underworld, Wrath, and only Lily can see him. He’s not the God of the Underworld that her father made the deal with but his predecessor. He’s angry that her father didn’t comply with his part of the bargain and was saved from the Underworld 24 years ago. Lily was not afraid of him and stood up to him. Lily had no idea what he was talking about. Her father never shared that part of their life with her and her brother. She told him that he was not getting her soul and she wanted nothing from him. He watched while she and her crew repaired the ship then warned them to leave a day later. She didn’t want to believe him and left anyway. They run into trouble she was the only survivor. He helped her escape. He didn’t want her soul. He doesn’t know why he’s helping her only that she’s worth saving.
He continues to appear to her and stay with her throughout her journey home to the Southern Isles. She tried to feel Khazmuda’s and Zehemoth’s minds to save her but she was too far away.
Wrath started appearing to her in her villa and told her what he wanted from her. She said you will never get her soul. He again told Lily that he doesn’t want her soul. He wants one thing from her. He wants her to be his lover for one year. They negotiated an arrangement and he finally agreed that she only had to at least once and she could stop whenever she wanted. She agreed she said only once and then it ends. He told her shouldn’t. She couldn’t stop not when he was such a great hot, muscular huge lover. They had a heat between them that she’s never felt before. They became closer and a relationship formed. It was eating her up that she had to keep a secret from everybody, both landing on the place that she promised not to go and that she had the God of the Underworld as her lover.
Riviana Star, her great aunt, Queen Eldinar and her uncle along with the elves and forest are under attack. The same ships that over took Lily’s ship and crew are invading Riviana Star. Lily demanded to go with her father because what kind of Queen would she be if she stayed safe at the castle and not fight along side of their people like he does. Her parents finally agreed to let her go instead of her brother. Her father had two of his lieutenants to stay by her side and not leave her unless they die. During the war Wrath gave her a gift to help her fight. You’ll will be very surprised to the outcome of the war.
Penelope is a phenomenal writer. She keeps me engaged, I feel like I can see what’s going on and I devoured this book and all her books. I couldn’t put it down. The book is a great story and moves right along. Oh but the surprises that happen throughout the book and that cliffhanger is a doosey! I couldn’t believe how it ended and what she shared! You’ll have to read this amazing , hot, sexy and captivating book! I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve for her next book.
Lily and her father are very close but in a bit of a different way. He trains her everyday since she could hold a sword. As an adult he is still training her everyday more and more aggressively to make sure she can defend herself against anyone and anything no matter what size and Maneuvers. At the same time he taught her how to sail any type of boat. She was not fused with her dragon Zehemoth, but can speak with dragons like her parents can. Her parents won’t let her fuse with the dragon until she’s older.
Lilly is the next in line to take over for Talon as Queen. Lily is unsettled about her life, if she wants to become Queen and doesn’t know what to do. So she sets sail with her own crew with her parents blessing and with the stipulation that she stays away from a specific place. Lilly sets sail on her voyage with Captain Hartshire and her crew. She loves the adventures she’s had on her voyage.
Everything went well until there were storms ahead. Lily knew how to read the weather and how to get around the bad storm that is headed right for them. She told the captain that they should turn the ship to avoid the storm but he wouldn’t listen because he felt he had more experience and knowledge and that they could get through it. They went through the storm and got stuck on rocks at the place her father made her promise not to go. Lily and what was left of her crew got to work on repairing the ship. She comes upon this very tall, sexy and muscular man. He knew exactly who she was and all about her family. He told her he knows everything because he is the God of the Underworld, Wrath, and only Lily can see him. He’s not the God of the Underworld that her father made the deal with but his predecessor. He’s angry that her father didn’t comply with his part of the bargain and was saved from the Underworld 24 years ago. Lily was not afraid of him and stood up to him. Lily had no idea what he was talking about. Her father never shared that part of their life with her and her brother. She told him that he was not getting her soul and she wanted nothing from him. He watched while she and her crew repaired the ship then warned them to leave a day later. She didn’t want to believe him and left anyway. They run into trouble she was the only survivor. He helped her escape. He didn’t want her soul. He doesn’t know why he’s helping her only that she’s worth saving.
He continues to appear to her and stay with her throughout her journey home to the Southern Isles. She tried to feel Khazmuda’s and Zehemoth’s minds to save her but she was too far away.
Wrath started appearing to her in her villa and told her what he wanted from her. She said you will never get her soul. He again told Lily that he doesn’t want her soul. He wants one thing from her. He wants her to be his lover for one year. They negotiated an arrangement and he finally agreed that she only had to at least once and she could stop whenever she wanted. She agreed she said only once and then it ends. He told her shouldn’t. She couldn’t stop not when he was such a great hot, muscular huge lover. They had a heat between them that she’s never felt before. They became closer and a relationship formed. It was eating her up that she had to keep a secret from everybody, both landing on the place that she promised not to go and that she had the God of the Underworld as her lover.
Riviana Star, her great aunt, Queen Eldinar and her uncle along with the elves and forest are under attack. The same ships that over took Lily’s ship and crew are invading Riviana Star. Lily demanded to go with her father because what kind of Queen would she be if she stayed safe at the castle and not fight along side of their people like he does. Her parents finally agreed to let her go instead of her brother. Her father had two of his lieutenants to stay by her side and not leave her unless they die. During the war Wrath gave her a gift to help her fight. You’ll will be very surprised to the outcome of the war.
Penelope is a phenomenal writer. She keeps me engaged, I feel like I can see what’s going on and I devoured this book and all her books. I couldn’t put it down. The book is a great story and moves right along. Oh but the surprises that happen throughout the book and that cliffhanger is a doosey! I couldn’t believe how it ended and what she shared! You’ll have to read this amazing , hot, sexy and captivating book! I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve for her next book.
March 7, 2026
Princess of Death by Penelope Barsetti is the fifth installment in the Death Series, focusing on the "next gen," and it is a prime example of a story collapsing under the weight of its own ambition. The book attempts to cram an exhausting amount of tropes and interwoven magic systems into one underdeveloped plot—giving us vampires, pirates, dragons, elves, a King Midas-esque antagonist, and a Hades/Persephone retelling built on a trope of unpaid debts. However, instead of an epic fantasy, it reads more like a messy "Y/N sold to the mafia" fanfiction, complete with the deeply cringeworthy ultimatum: "You have to bed me at least once." The romantic pacing is jarringly unearned; Lily and Wrath have sex exactly once and are suddenly deeply in love, completely skipping any actual relationship development. I can see the potential in the fantasy elements—which is the only reason this gets a generous 2 stars—but the execution falls completely flat, leaving a rather mediocre battle scene at the 93% mark as the only remotely redeeming moment of the story.
The characterization is where this spicy fantasy truly becomes a test of endurance. Lily had all the setup to be a strong female lead, but she fell so far from greatness that by the 33% mark, I was actively hoping she’d get stabbed just so I would finally care about her. Instead of being a badass, she acts like a spoiled brat who constantly relies on the men around her to solve her problems (while the narrative completely glazes over the fact that her own father would punch her???). Wrath, the male lead, actually had the potential for fleshed-out motivations, but his backstory, while intriguing, is entirely overshadowed by painstakingly immature, cheesy dialogue. Between the "It was still a tree trunk, whether it was full or not – I straddled his mighty oak," and having deeply uncomfortable, borderline pedophilic thoughts about Lily, he became unbearable. If there is one thing this book convinced me of, it is that man measurements are totally a thing. Honestly, if the U.S. government ever needs to torture me at Guantanamo Bay, they just need to play the spicy scenes from this book. I found myself infinitely more interested in Lily’s mother, the Queen, who carried the book's only good energy with one-liners like, "The only thing better than a warm blanket in the cold is a hot man."
If you think reading phrases like "slathering his dick in my cream" or "there's no such thing as too much dick" is hard on the eyes, try having them whispered into your ears a heinous amount of times throughout an almost 10-hour audiobook. Despite my massive issues with the actual story, the audiobook was undeniably well-produced. The female narrator, Romona Master, did a genuinely fantastic job trying to salvage the material she was given. Unfortunately, the male narrator, Michael Ferraiuolo, made the baffling decision to pitch his voice into a whiny, nasally tone every time he read Lily's dialogue. This stylistic choice was the final nail in the coffin for her character, completely obliterating any chance of perceived character growth and firmly reinforcing the idea that she was nothing more than a spoiled brat.
The fact that this book has so much high praise is astounding to me, and I feel it probably stems from either the love for the other books or the spice… maybe even both.
👑 Spicy fantasy
👑 Interwoven magic system
👑 Pirates, dragons, and elves… oh my!
👑 Unpaid debts
👑 Hades-like MMC
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and the author for providing me with the audio ARC in exchange for my honest opinions!
The characterization is where this spicy fantasy truly becomes a test of endurance. Lily had all the setup to be a strong female lead, but she fell so far from greatness that by the 33% mark, I was actively hoping she’d get stabbed just so I would finally care about her. Instead of being a badass, she acts like a spoiled brat who constantly relies on the men around her to solve her problems (while the narrative completely glazes over the fact that her own father would punch her???). Wrath, the male lead, actually had the potential for fleshed-out motivations, but his backstory, while intriguing, is entirely overshadowed by painstakingly immature, cheesy dialogue. Between the "It was still a tree trunk, whether it was full or not – I straddled his mighty oak," and having deeply uncomfortable, borderline pedophilic thoughts about Lily, he became unbearable. If there is one thing this book convinced me of, it is that man measurements are totally a thing. Honestly, if the U.S. government ever needs to torture me at Guantanamo Bay, they just need to play the spicy scenes from this book. I found myself infinitely more interested in Lily’s mother, the Queen, who carried the book's only good energy with one-liners like, "The only thing better than a warm blanket in the cold is a hot man."
If you think reading phrases like "slathering his dick in my cream" or "there's no such thing as too much dick" is hard on the eyes, try having them whispered into your ears a heinous amount of times throughout an almost 10-hour audiobook. Despite my massive issues with the actual story, the audiobook was undeniably well-produced. The female narrator, Romona Master, did a genuinely fantastic job trying to salvage the material she was given. Unfortunately, the male narrator, Michael Ferraiuolo, made the baffling decision to pitch his voice into a whiny, nasally tone every time he read Lily's dialogue. This stylistic choice was the final nail in the coffin for her character, completely obliterating any chance of perceived character growth and firmly reinforcing the idea that she was nothing more than a spoiled brat.
The fact that this book has so much high praise is astounding to me, and I feel it probably stems from either the love for the other books or the spice… maybe even both.
👑 Spicy fantasy
👑 Interwoven magic system
👑 Pirates, dragons, and elves… oh my!
👑 Unpaid debts
👑 Hades-like MMC
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and the author for providing me with the audio ARC in exchange for my honest opinions!
July 6, 2025
I think this is my favorite book in this series. Wrath has me in an absolute chokehold.
This book begins with a decent time jump from where the last one ends. We meet up with Lily while she is the captain of a ship commanding a crew. After a devastating night she finds her ship washed up on a dead island. The exact island her father made her swear to never go to. Here we meet Wrath. The new keeper of my soul.
“Your father came here intentionally—and you mistakenly. But nonetheless, you’re here. And now you’re mine.”
Out of all of Penelope's mmcs, Wrath is my favorite. Not only is he God of the Underworld, but he is the epitome of an mmc that will burn the entire world for the one that made his heart beat again. The relationship between Wrath and Lily started off strange but evolved into something neither of them expected. I ate up every second of it. Every glance, every conversation, every embrace. It was raw and beautifully written. I am utterly consumed by them.
The way this book was written was interesting. It jumps back and forth from chapters to prologues. We get both Wrath and Lily's point of view which is always a plus. We get to see Lily really come into her own and embrace her lineage and possible succession to the throne.
I am all for a daughter taking over a king's reign. I loved reading about the relationship between Lily and her father. She was special to him and it is apparent throughout the book. We get tiny glimpses of Lily's mom and brother throughout but they aren't prevalent in her story. The dragons are present but mainly in the background. I thought I would want more but I was so captivated by Lily and Wrath that everything else kind of faded into the background.
The ending.....woah. What a cliffhanger. Shit is about to hit the fan.
This book begins with a decent time jump from where the last one ends. We meet up with Lily while she is the captain of a ship commanding a crew. After a devastating night she finds her ship washed up on a dead island. The exact island her father made her swear to never go to. Here we meet Wrath. The new keeper of my soul.
“Your father came here intentionally—and you mistakenly. But nonetheless, you’re here. And now you’re mine.”
Out of all of Penelope's mmcs, Wrath is my favorite. Not only is he God of the Underworld, but he is the epitome of an mmc that will burn the entire world for the one that made his heart beat again. The relationship between Wrath and Lily started off strange but evolved into something neither of them expected. I ate up every second of it. Every glance, every conversation, every embrace. It was raw and beautifully written. I am utterly consumed by them.
The way this book was written was interesting. It jumps back and forth from chapters to prologues. We get both Wrath and Lily's point of view which is always a plus. We get to see Lily really come into her own and embrace her lineage and possible succession to the throne.
I am all for a daughter taking over a king's reign. I loved reading about the relationship between Lily and her father. She was special to him and it is apparent throughout the book. We get tiny glimpses of Lily's mom and brother throughout but they aren't prevalent in her story. The dragons are present but mainly in the background. I thought I would want more but I was so captivated by Lily and Wrath that everything else kind of faded into the background.
The ending.....woah. What a cliffhanger. Shit is about to hit the fan.
November 15, 2025
Genre: Dark Romantasy
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶 3/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger: 8/10
Noteworthy: Book 5 in the Death Series but it starts a new arc with the next generation. You do not have to read the first 4 books as they are explained throughout this book. Dark tones and themes. Dual first-person POV. Available on KU.
The only thing better than a kickass final battle is when it's lead by a fierce woman. Lily is very much her father's daughter. She's such a great character. Her strength and determination reminded me why I loved the first arc of this series so much. Wrath started out feeling so disassociated but came alive as the story progressed. By the end I was rooting for him so hard! I can't wait for her father's reaction to Lily's secrets!
This book is giving The Ever King vibes in a way. What started out looking simple got really freaking complicated by the cliffhanger. Eeeek! All hail The Death Queen!
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶 3/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger: 8/10
Noteworthy: Book 5 in the Death Series but it starts a new arc with the next generation. You do not have to read the first 4 books as they are explained throughout this book. Dark tones and themes. Dual first-person POV. Available on KU.
The only thing better than a kickass final battle is when it's lead by a fierce woman. Lily is very much her father's daughter. She's such a great character. Her strength and determination reminded me why I loved the first arc of this series so much. Wrath started out feeling so disassociated but came alive as the story progressed. By the end I was rooting for him so hard! I can't wait for her father's reaction to Lily's secrets!
This book is giving The Ever King vibes in a way. What started out looking simple got really freaking complicated by the cliffhanger. Eeeek! All hail The Death Queen!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Princess of Death continues with the next generation in the Death Series. Lily Rothschild, daughter of the original leads, crosses paths with Wrath, the new God of the Underworld, and their meeting sets the tone for a story built on tension, power, and emotional upheaval.
I’ve enjoyed every book in this series, and this one keeps that momentum. Lily is fiercely independent, and watching her navigate a world of secrets, shifting loyalties, and a dangerously compelling man made the story engaging. Their dynamic is full of friction and heat, and the dual narration by Ramona Master and Michael Ferraiuolo adds an added layer to their push‑and‑pull.
Perfect for readers who love dark fantasy with strong emotional stakes and complicated relationships, this installment delivers a satisfying blend of danger, passion, and character‑driven conflict. Fans of Penelope Barsetti’s world will feel right at home.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Penelope Barsetti for the ALC copy!
I’ve enjoyed every book in this series, and this one keeps that momentum. Lily is fiercely independent, and watching her navigate a world of secrets, shifting loyalties, and a dangerously compelling man made the story engaging. Their dynamic is full of friction and heat, and the dual narration by Ramona Master and Michael Ferraiuolo adds an added layer to their push‑and‑pull.
Perfect for readers who love dark fantasy with strong emotional stakes and complicated relationships, this installment delivers a satisfying blend of danger, passion, and character‑driven conflict. Fans of Penelope Barsetti’s world will feel right at home.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Penelope Barsetti for the ALC copy!
March 17, 2026
I looove this series so much!!! Talon's daughter, Lily, is all grown up and has taken his place as the main character of this series! Don't worry about missing our broody boy Talon though, he is still a major part of this story!
Lily is fierce and independent, forging her own way in this world of dragons, pirates, elves, orcs, and vampires! Her forbidden love interest, Wrath, who just so happens to be the God of the Dead, is 🔥🔥🔥! He has a tragic back story and while he's morally black, you are definitely going to be rooting for him!
The action, adventure, tragedy, and spice of this series continues in this book and I am so here for it!
More of What to Expect:
⚓️ Adventures at Sea
🖤 Forbidden Love
🐲 Dragon Bonds
🏰 Protecting Allies
Lily is fierce and independent, forging her own way in this world of dragons, pirates, elves, orcs, and vampires! Her forbidden love interest, Wrath, who just so happens to be the God of the Dead, is 🔥🔥🔥! He has a tragic back story and while he's morally black, you are definitely going to be rooting for him!
The action, adventure, tragedy, and spice of this series continues in this book and I am so here for it!
More of What to Expect:
⚓️ Adventures at Sea
🖤 Forbidden Love
🐲 Dragon Bonds
🏰 Protecting Allies
July 21, 2025
Where is the rest
This book ends like a precursor to the bite me series but doesn't wrap up the story between wrath and lily which was rushed as heck. I live these stories and series but girl this can't be the end
This book ends like a precursor to the bite me series but doesn't wrap up the story between wrath and lily which was rushed as heck. I live these stories and series but girl this can't be the end
March 6, 2026
AUDIOBOOK !!
Set twenty-four years after the events of the previous story, this book shifts the focus to the next generation—specifically Lily Rothschild, the princess of the Southern Isles and the heir expected to one day succeed Talonnas ruler. Lily has grown up surrounded by strength, expectations, and secrets. She shares a close bond with her mother, though there’s one truth she has never been able to reveal. Her relationship with her father is different but just as strong. From the moment she was able to lift a sword, he trained her relentlessly. Even as an adult he continues to push her harder each day, determined to ensure she can defend herself against any opponent. Alongside combat training, he also made sure she mastered the sea, teaching her how to command any vessel with confidence.
Although Lily can communicate with dragons like her parents, she has not yet bonded with her dragon Zehemoth. Her parents insist she wait until she’s older before completing that connection. At the same time, the pressure of eventually ruling weighs heavily on her. Unsure whether she truly wants the crown, Lily decides to take time for herself and sets out on a voyage with her own crew. With her parents’ reluctant approval—and one very strict warning to avoid a certain location—she sails off under the leadership of Captain Hartshire, eager to experience the world beyond the palace.
For a while, life at sea brings her the freedom she’s been craving. But everything changes when a violent storm appears on the horizon. Lily reads the weather correctly and advises turning the ship away, yet Captain Hartshire dismisses her warning, believing his experience is superior. The decision proves disastrous. Their ship is wrecked against rocks on the very island Lily promised her father she would never approach.
While attempting to salvage the vessel with the few surviving members of her crew, Lily encounters a mysterious man—towering, powerful, and undeniably captivating. He knows her name, her lineage, and the secrets of her family. The stranger reveals himself as Wrath, the God of the Underworld. Not the same deity who once made a bargain with her father, but the one who held that power before him. Furious over the broken terms of a deal made decades earlier, Wrath originally came for her soul. Yet things don’t unfold as expected.
Lily refuses to cower before him, boldly denying any responsibility for a bargain she knew nothing about. Instead of claiming her soul, Wrath finds himself lingering—watching, protecting, and eventually helping her survive when danger returns. Even he doesn’t fully understand why he can’t walk away from her.
As Lily journeys back toward the Southern Isles, Wrath continues to appear only to her, guiding her and challenging her in equal measure. When he finally reveals what he truly wants, it isn’t her soul at all. He asks for something far more personal: a year in which she becomes his lover. Lily fiercely resists, negotiating the terms until she agrees to a single encounter that she believes will end the matter. Of course, nothing about their connection is that simple. The attraction between them is powerful, intense, and impossible to ignore, quickly growing into something far deeper than either expected.
Their secret relationship becomes a heavy burden for Lily. She’s already hiding the truth about the forbidden island and now must conceal the fact that the God of the Underworld himself has become part of her life. At the same time, greater threats begin to rise. Riviana Star, her great aunt Queen Eldinar, and the surrounding lands—including the elves and the forest—come under attack by the same enemy forces responsible for the earlier destruction at sea.
Determined not to hide behind palace walls, Lily insists on joining the fight alongside her father. She refuses to rule a kingdom she isn’t willing to defend. After much debate, her parents finally allow her to go in place of her brother, assigning two trusted lieutenants to remain at her side no matter what. During the battle, Wrath offers Lily a powerful gift that changes the course of the conflict in ways readers won’t expect.
What makes this story especially compelling is how Penelope balances action, romance, and character development. Lily grows significantly throughout the book, slowly embracing the strength within her and the responsibilities tied to her lineage. Her bond with her father is particularly touching, clearly showing how much he values and trusts her. Although characters like her mother, brother, and the dragons Khazmuda and Zehemoth appear more in the background, the central focus on Lily and Wrath is so absorbing that nothing feels lacking.
Wrath easily stands out as one of the most memorable male leads Penelope has created. Dangerous, powerful, and fiercely devoted, he embodies the kind of character who would tear the world apart for the woman who reignited his heart. Watching the relationship between Wrath and Lily transform from suspicion and tension into something deeply emotional was completely captivating.
The structure of the book also adds an interesting layer. Chapters shift between perspectives from Lily and Wrath, sometimes weaving in prologue-style sections that reveal additional context. This dual viewpoint makes their connection even more engaging because readers can witness both sides of their evolving bond.
For those who enjoy audiobooks, the narration by Ramona Master and Michael Ferraiuolo adds another dimension to the story, bringing the characters and their emotions vividly to life.
And then there’s the ending. Just when everything seems to settle, the story delivers a shocking twist that completely changes the stakes. The cliffhanger is massive and leaves you desperate to know what happens next.
Between the adventure, the romance, the emotional growth of Lily Rothschild, and the magnetic presence of Wrath, this book is impossible to put down. It’s thrilling, intense, and full of surprises—and I already cannot wait to see what Penelope has planned for the next installment.
Set twenty-four years after the events of the previous story, this book shifts the focus to the next generation—specifically Lily Rothschild, the princess of the Southern Isles and the heir expected to one day succeed Talonnas ruler. Lily has grown up surrounded by strength, expectations, and secrets. She shares a close bond with her mother, though there’s one truth she has never been able to reveal. Her relationship with her father is different but just as strong. From the moment she was able to lift a sword, he trained her relentlessly. Even as an adult he continues to push her harder each day, determined to ensure she can defend herself against any opponent. Alongside combat training, he also made sure she mastered the sea, teaching her how to command any vessel with confidence.
Although Lily can communicate with dragons like her parents, she has not yet bonded with her dragon Zehemoth. Her parents insist she wait until she’s older before completing that connection. At the same time, the pressure of eventually ruling weighs heavily on her. Unsure whether she truly wants the crown, Lily decides to take time for herself and sets out on a voyage with her own crew. With her parents’ reluctant approval—and one very strict warning to avoid a certain location—she sails off under the leadership of Captain Hartshire, eager to experience the world beyond the palace.
For a while, life at sea brings her the freedom she’s been craving. But everything changes when a violent storm appears on the horizon. Lily reads the weather correctly and advises turning the ship away, yet Captain Hartshire dismisses her warning, believing his experience is superior. The decision proves disastrous. Their ship is wrecked against rocks on the very island Lily promised her father she would never approach.
While attempting to salvage the vessel with the few surviving members of her crew, Lily encounters a mysterious man—towering, powerful, and undeniably captivating. He knows her name, her lineage, and the secrets of her family. The stranger reveals himself as Wrath, the God of the Underworld. Not the same deity who once made a bargain with her father, but the one who held that power before him. Furious over the broken terms of a deal made decades earlier, Wrath originally came for her soul. Yet things don’t unfold as expected.
Lily refuses to cower before him, boldly denying any responsibility for a bargain she knew nothing about. Instead of claiming her soul, Wrath finds himself lingering—watching, protecting, and eventually helping her survive when danger returns. Even he doesn’t fully understand why he can’t walk away from her.
As Lily journeys back toward the Southern Isles, Wrath continues to appear only to her, guiding her and challenging her in equal measure. When he finally reveals what he truly wants, it isn’t her soul at all. He asks for something far more personal: a year in which she becomes his lover. Lily fiercely resists, negotiating the terms until she agrees to a single encounter that she believes will end the matter. Of course, nothing about their connection is that simple. The attraction between them is powerful, intense, and impossible to ignore, quickly growing into something far deeper than either expected.
Their secret relationship becomes a heavy burden for Lily. She’s already hiding the truth about the forbidden island and now must conceal the fact that the God of the Underworld himself has become part of her life. At the same time, greater threats begin to rise. Riviana Star, her great aunt Queen Eldinar, and the surrounding lands—including the elves and the forest—come under attack by the same enemy forces responsible for the earlier destruction at sea.
Determined not to hide behind palace walls, Lily insists on joining the fight alongside her father. She refuses to rule a kingdom she isn’t willing to defend. After much debate, her parents finally allow her to go in place of her brother, assigning two trusted lieutenants to remain at her side no matter what. During the battle, Wrath offers Lily a powerful gift that changes the course of the conflict in ways readers won’t expect.
What makes this story especially compelling is how Penelope balances action, romance, and character development. Lily grows significantly throughout the book, slowly embracing the strength within her and the responsibilities tied to her lineage. Her bond with her father is particularly touching, clearly showing how much he values and trusts her. Although characters like her mother, brother, and the dragons Khazmuda and Zehemoth appear more in the background, the central focus on Lily and Wrath is so absorbing that nothing feels lacking.
Wrath easily stands out as one of the most memorable male leads Penelope has created. Dangerous, powerful, and fiercely devoted, he embodies the kind of character who would tear the world apart for the woman who reignited his heart. Watching the relationship between Wrath and Lily transform from suspicion and tension into something deeply emotional was completely captivating.
The structure of the book also adds an interesting layer. Chapters shift between perspectives from Lily and Wrath, sometimes weaving in prologue-style sections that reveal additional context. This dual viewpoint makes their connection even more engaging because readers can witness both sides of their evolving bond.
For those who enjoy audiobooks, the narration by Ramona Master and Michael Ferraiuolo adds another dimension to the story, bringing the characters and their emotions vividly to life.
And then there’s the ending. Just when everything seems to settle, the story delivers a shocking twist that completely changes the stakes. The cliffhanger is massive and leaves you desperate to know what happens next.
Between the adventure, the romance, the emotional growth of Lily Rothschild, and the magnetic presence of Wrath, this book is impossible to put down. It’s thrilling, intense, and full of surprises—and I already cannot wait to see what Penelope has planned for the next installment.
July 21, 2025
Let me begin by stating that I love love love this series and Penelope’s work. Her fantasy novels, in particular, are so compelling to me and her writing keeps me glued to the pages.
With that being said, I leave this reading journey with a few irritations:
1) Calista was (is) such a badass throughout the first 4 books. She’s also the fmc. In this installment, she had no memorable moments. Typical motherly character who offered her daughter comfort at times, and constantly worried for her safety. Honestly, you would never had known the depths of her relationship with Talon, nor her extraordinary features from the previous novels, if you picked this book up as a stand alone. I think her character was very watered down.
2) Not enough dragons. Dragons are a huge part of this series, and aside from some surface level conversations between Zehemoth and Lily, we didn’t see much of them. We didn’t even get to see any dragon action in the final battle.
3) The ending felt a bit rushed. 95% of the novel was dedicated to building Lily and Wrath’s emotional and romantic connection, then BOOM we get a major battle that lasted for what seemed like 10-15 pages, or so. For a battle that nearly cost Talon his life, I expected some more action. Also I’m a bit confused by the ending, unless I’m misunderstanding - why is Wrath so conflicted with feeling less deserving of Lily’s forgiveness for the deal he made with the barbarian? Lily doesn’t strike me as the type of person to hold that deal against him, considering he made it prior to meeting her? His worries seem misplaced. Turning the barbarian into a vampire after the fact would be more of a concern. Maybe I misunderstood this ending. This also wasn’t the big cliffhanger you would come to expect in this series. I mean, I was on the edge of my seat after The Death King ending. And that one ending that left Talon with the choice of sacrificing Queen Eldinar to Bahamut? Those endings were *chef’s kiss*. This ending? Kind of quick and flat, in my opinion. I was hoping the barbarian reveal was going to show us a past character we would recognize. Perhaps someone from the Dirty Blood series? Imagine if those 3 barbarians were Kingsnake, Cobra and Viper - I would have lost my mind. Not sure how that would have worked in the grand scheme of things, but still.
4) To piggyback on the previous point, poor Viper. I felt bad for my dude. He was a secondary character, as compared to his brothers, in the Dirty Blood series and now we see him again (very briefly) but he has been reduced to the fmc’s fling. He was yesterday’s news the moment Wrath entered the picture. Justice for Viper! Give my guy his own story, or at least a stronger presence and purpose somehow and somewhere.
With the above considered, I still enjoyed this read. No, it was not as gripping and thrilling as the previous installments, but I did thoroughly enjoy getting to know Wrath’s compelling character. I was not expecting this complex character development and was honestly kind of expecting him to be an asshole like Bahamut, but maybe to a bit of a lesser degree. He is nothing like Bahamut, which makes his journey enjoyable to read. This is not a “but I can change him” type of romance, which is a relief to me.
This is both a pro and con - Penelope is excellent at writing a strong female lead. However, sometimes her fmc blur together for me throughout her novels. Most of them share a lot of similarities (headstrong, independent, dark hair, defiant, royalty, the mmc’s 2nd shot at love, etc.) and as much as Lily was an enjoyable character, she reminded me very much of Calista, Larissa, Ivory, Harlow, etc.
Penelope’s novels are always something I look forward to and although I have minor, personal takeaways here and there that ding a star or two from my rating, her writing is fun, descriptive, emotional, seamless and she consistently puts out enjoyable reads. I look forward to the next installment.
With that being said, I leave this reading journey with a few irritations:
1) Calista was (is) such a badass throughout the first 4 books. She’s also the fmc. In this installment, she had no memorable moments. Typical motherly character who offered her daughter comfort at times, and constantly worried for her safety. Honestly, you would never had known the depths of her relationship with Talon, nor her extraordinary features from the previous novels, if you picked this book up as a stand alone. I think her character was very watered down.
2) Not enough dragons. Dragons are a huge part of this series, and aside from some surface level conversations between Zehemoth and Lily, we didn’t see much of them. We didn’t even get to see any dragon action in the final battle.
3) The ending felt a bit rushed. 95% of the novel was dedicated to building Lily and Wrath’s emotional and romantic connection, then BOOM we get a major battle that lasted for what seemed like 10-15 pages, or so. For a battle that nearly cost Talon his life, I expected some more action. Also I’m a bit confused by the ending, unless I’m misunderstanding - why is Wrath so conflicted with feeling less deserving of Lily’s forgiveness for the deal he made with the barbarian? Lily doesn’t strike me as the type of person to hold that deal against him, considering he made it prior to meeting her? His worries seem misplaced. Turning the barbarian into a vampire after the fact would be more of a concern. Maybe I misunderstood this ending. This also wasn’t the big cliffhanger you would come to expect in this series. I mean, I was on the edge of my seat after The Death King ending. And that one ending that left Talon with the choice of sacrificing Queen Eldinar to Bahamut? Those endings were *chef’s kiss*. This ending? Kind of quick and flat, in my opinion. I was hoping the barbarian reveal was going to show us a past character we would recognize. Perhaps someone from the Dirty Blood series? Imagine if those 3 barbarians were Kingsnake, Cobra and Viper - I would have lost my mind. Not sure how that would have worked in the grand scheme of things, but still.
4) To piggyback on the previous point, poor Viper. I felt bad for my dude. He was a secondary character, as compared to his brothers, in the Dirty Blood series and now we see him again (very briefly) but he has been reduced to the fmc’s fling. He was yesterday’s news the moment Wrath entered the picture. Justice for Viper! Give my guy his own story, or at least a stronger presence and purpose somehow and somewhere.
With the above considered, I still enjoyed this read. No, it was not as gripping and thrilling as the previous installments, but I did thoroughly enjoy getting to know Wrath’s compelling character. I was not expecting this complex character development and was honestly kind of expecting him to be an asshole like Bahamut, but maybe to a bit of a lesser degree. He is nothing like Bahamut, which makes his journey enjoyable to read. This is not a “but I can change him” type of romance, which is a relief to me.
This is both a pro and con - Penelope is excellent at writing a strong female lead. However, sometimes her fmc blur together for me throughout her novels. Most of them share a lot of similarities (headstrong, independent, dark hair, defiant, royalty, the mmc’s 2nd shot at love, etc.) and as much as Lily was an enjoyable character, she reminded me very much of Calista, Larissa, Ivory, Harlow, etc.
Penelope’s novels are always something I look forward to and although I have minor, personal takeaways here and there that ding a star or two from my rating, her writing is fun, descriptive, emotional, seamless and she consistently puts out enjoyable reads. I look forward to the next installment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2025
Forbidden immortal love
Welcome back Penelope Barsetti, Queen of fantasy books. We are all so grateful to be able to dive back into a world full of dragons, sexy underworld God, mystical creatures and so much more! In the continuation of the death series, the 5th installment brings us 20+ years into the future following now the daughter of talon and Calista.
In this heart pounding story, We learn about Lily and the new appointed underworld god, Wrath.
Our strong, fierce, brave, loyal and passionate MFC demonstrates outstanding qualities of a leader and a future queen. Her dedication is admirable as she relentlessly works to meet the expectations of her father as he prepares her to rule the kingdom and be a good leader for the people. Throughout the book we come to respect and love her character as she displays humility, courage and resilience. Not your typical princess. She dons her sword and armor like a soldier.
But what happens when one’s heart desires at different path? What if the expectations of the future crown are a heavy burden and duty to carry? When Lily decides to purse her dream to explore around the world in her new temporary life as a sailor in a voyage, a turn of events will lead her to meet Wrath, our handsome and sexy god of the underworld and successor of Bahamut. Our MMC can be defined as “being good amongst evil”. A once mortal family man who made the ultimate sacrifice. A selfless act to forfeit one’s soul to save the one he loves. A hefty price paid and now living in an eternal servitude in a world full of monsters, darkness and evil. When Wrath and Lily meet, he’s instantly captivated by the power running through her veins. He was entranced by her intelligence, tenacity and beauty. A lethal combination that has brought this mountain of God to his knees. On and on, he shows his devotion and loyalty to keep her safe even by breaking his own laws to help her defeat the most formidable foe. In the midst of their “business deal”, Matters of the bedroom become of one’s of the heart. What was supposed to be a fleetingly passionate affairs becomes a more intimate loving encounters and what it was supposed to be an agreement for a unsettled debt to be repaid develops into an all consuming, raw and blooming love. There’s no turning back. Their mutual yearn to be with each other is like an unceasing roaring fire.
She’s his light and sun and he is her rock.
BUT when Secrets, enemies and upcoming battle threatens the peaceful realm Talon Rothchild and dragons fought to regain back… how will their kingdom survive? How will our couple stay together? So many questions and that cliffhanger had me on edge and just wanting more! Can’t wait for book 6 in the series.
Welcome back Penelope Barsetti, Queen of fantasy books. We are all so grateful to be able to dive back into a world full of dragons, sexy underworld God, mystical creatures and so much more! In the continuation of the death series, the 5th installment brings us 20+ years into the future following now the daughter of talon and Calista.
In this heart pounding story, We learn about Lily and the new appointed underworld god, Wrath.
Our strong, fierce, brave, loyal and passionate MFC demonstrates outstanding qualities of a leader and a future queen. Her dedication is admirable as she relentlessly works to meet the expectations of her father as he prepares her to rule the kingdom and be a good leader for the people. Throughout the book we come to respect and love her character as she displays humility, courage and resilience. Not your typical princess. She dons her sword and armor like a soldier.
But what happens when one’s heart desires at different path? What if the expectations of the future crown are a heavy burden and duty to carry? When Lily decides to purse her dream to explore around the world in her new temporary life as a sailor in a voyage, a turn of events will lead her to meet Wrath, our handsome and sexy god of the underworld and successor of Bahamut. Our MMC can be defined as “being good amongst evil”. A once mortal family man who made the ultimate sacrifice. A selfless act to forfeit one’s soul to save the one he loves. A hefty price paid and now living in an eternal servitude in a world full of monsters, darkness and evil. When Wrath and Lily meet, he’s instantly captivated by the power running through her veins. He was entranced by her intelligence, tenacity and beauty. A lethal combination that has brought this mountain of God to his knees. On and on, he shows his devotion and loyalty to keep her safe even by breaking his own laws to help her defeat the most formidable foe. In the midst of their “business deal”, Matters of the bedroom become of one’s of the heart. What was supposed to be a fleetingly passionate affairs becomes a more intimate loving encounters and what it was supposed to be an agreement for a unsettled debt to be repaid develops into an all consuming, raw and blooming love. There’s no turning back. Their mutual yearn to be with each other is like an unceasing roaring fire.
She’s his light and sun and he is her rock.
BUT when Secrets, enemies and upcoming battle threatens the peaceful realm Talon Rothchild and dragons fought to regain back… how will their kingdom survive? How will our couple stay together? So many questions and that cliffhanger had me on edge and just wanting more! Can’t wait for book 6 in the series.
June 14, 2025
What an utterly addicting mind-boggling! PRINCESS OF DEATH is the 5th book in the Death Series. This dark enemies to lovers romance is full of raw emotions, and it left me with the best book hangover. You feel every ounce of pain, every slice of betrayal, lies, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat to find out what happened next. Its intricate plot is a new brand of perfection and is so mind-blowing that it will leave you breathless. This is Wrath (aka Callum Riverside) and Lily Lena Rothschild’s bittersweet love story.
Lily is Princess of the Southern Isles—King Talon and Calista’s first born. Talon taught Lily how to defend herself, fight like a warrior, and how to survive because he wants her to take over the crown when he steps down, but she is not sure if she wants it. At 23, Lily wanted to travel the world for six months. At the end of Lily’s travel, she and the crew on the galleon were returning to the Southern Isles and the ship was caught in a storm that turned them off their course, and wrecked into some rocks. They were headed in the direction of the one place her father warned her not to go near.
Wrath is God of the Underworld, King of the Dead—he is very evil that anyone would fear him. He is Bahamut’s successor, and a behemoth of a man as well as the most handsome man Lily has ever seen. While the crew fix the galleon, Lily explores the dead island and is summoned by Wrath’s voice. Wrath tells Lily that her father never paid his debt to Bahamut. “Pay his debt. Or I will come to collect.” What was the debt that Talon didn’t pay? Will Lily feel obligated to pay her father’s debt? Lily is very feisty, obstinate, and Wrath is enamored by her beauty, intelligence, and strong willed. Lily will surprise you because she becomes a force to be reckoned with. Despite their differences, the chemistry between Wrath and Lily is undeniable and off-the-chart HOT! And can Lily resist the comfort of Wrath’s embrace without her father finding out? When a war ensues to threaten the Southern Isles peace, will Wrath interfere with the living battle? Then an incident occurred, and it will affect both Wrath and Lily. Will Wrath and Lily be able to get past all of the abhorrent circumstances that caused a lot of pain? Will their doubts get in the way of true love? Will Lily find out Wrath’s secret of why he is in the Underworld? Will Talon find out Lily’s secret of being with the God of the Underworld, King of the Dead? What happens next? Well, read this amazing story and find out. Penelope Barsetti delivered a powerful and emotional, intense, and all-consuming story that left me obsessed. You won’t regret reading PRINCESS OF DEATH (Book 5). I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book!
Lily is Princess of the Southern Isles—King Talon and Calista’s first born. Talon taught Lily how to defend herself, fight like a warrior, and how to survive because he wants her to take over the crown when he steps down, but she is not sure if she wants it. At 23, Lily wanted to travel the world for six months. At the end of Lily’s travel, she and the crew on the galleon were returning to the Southern Isles and the ship was caught in a storm that turned them off their course, and wrecked into some rocks. They were headed in the direction of the one place her father warned her not to go near.
Wrath is God of the Underworld, King of the Dead—he is very evil that anyone would fear him. He is Bahamut’s successor, and a behemoth of a man as well as the most handsome man Lily has ever seen. While the crew fix the galleon, Lily explores the dead island and is summoned by Wrath’s voice. Wrath tells Lily that her father never paid his debt to Bahamut. “Pay his debt. Or I will come to collect.” What was the debt that Talon didn’t pay? Will Lily feel obligated to pay her father’s debt? Lily is very feisty, obstinate, and Wrath is enamored by her beauty, intelligence, and strong willed. Lily will surprise you because she becomes a force to be reckoned with. Despite their differences, the chemistry between Wrath and Lily is undeniable and off-the-chart HOT! And can Lily resist the comfort of Wrath’s embrace without her father finding out? When a war ensues to threaten the Southern Isles peace, will Wrath interfere with the living battle? Then an incident occurred, and it will affect both Wrath and Lily. Will Wrath and Lily be able to get past all of the abhorrent circumstances that caused a lot of pain? Will their doubts get in the way of true love? Will Lily find out Wrath’s secret of why he is in the Underworld? Will Talon find out Lily’s secret of being with the God of the Underworld, King of the Dead? What happens next? Well, read this amazing story and find out. Penelope Barsetti delivered a powerful and emotional, intense, and all-consuming story that left me obsessed. You won’t regret reading PRINCESS OF DEATH (Book 5). I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book!
June 12, 2025
Princess of Death is book 5 in the Death Series. It has been 24 years of peace since King Talon, the Death King took back his kingdom and freed the dragons. He and Calista have lived a harmonious life with their children. Lily, their daughter, isn’t your typical princess. She doesn’t want to stay at home. She loves adventure. She is fierce, brave, fearless, and loves to take risks. She knows how to fight, fish and hunt. Although Talon fears for her safety, he lets her go on her journey. However, he warns her of a place she must never visit, a dead island. She sails with her crew to see different things all around the world. Nothing scares her. She even sleeps with a vampire for a while. During her journey, her ship is caught in a storm and it sends her to the very dead island she was warned about. She refuses to cower but then she hears someone calling out to her and comes face to face with the God of the Underworld himself.
The God of the Underworld is someone to be feared but he’s also a very beautiful man. The minute him and Lily meet, there is obvious chemistry and sexual tension. He tells her she should have never come to the island even if it was by mistake. Now that she’s crossed, he can collect the debt her father owes. He decides to make her an offer. A proposition to repay her dad’s debt. He wants her. Not her life, not her soul but her body. He wants her available whenever he wants and she accepts. They both sense that attraction. He can touch her with just his eyes. He can make her feel so much with just the touch of his hand. What will happen when they give in to their desires??
Penelope Barsetti transported me back into the magical land of dragons and kings. This time we get a deeper look into the underworld and what it is really like. I felt so much with this book, what Lily and the God of the Underworld goes through is powerful and indescribable. It is hard to explain but it works. Their chemistry is the very fire the dragons breathe and their scenes made me so hot. You feel everything they feel deep into your soul. There are more challenges coming their way and I cannot wait to find out what they will face. That cliffhanger left me on the edge of my seat. I screamed no into my kindle because I knew it was over. I am so excited for the next book. I will be counting the days.
The God of the Underworld is someone to be feared but he’s also a very beautiful man. The minute him and Lily meet, there is obvious chemistry and sexual tension. He tells her she should have never come to the island even if it was by mistake. Now that she’s crossed, he can collect the debt her father owes. He decides to make her an offer. A proposition to repay her dad’s debt. He wants her. Not her life, not her soul but her body. He wants her available whenever he wants and she accepts. They both sense that attraction. He can touch her with just his eyes. He can make her feel so much with just the touch of his hand. What will happen when they give in to their desires??
Penelope Barsetti transported me back into the magical land of dragons and kings. This time we get a deeper look into the underworld and what it is really like. I felt so much with this book, what Lily and the God of the Underworld goes through is powerful and indescribable. It is hard to explain but it works. Their chemistry is the very fire the dragons breathe and their scenes made me so hot. You feel everything they feel deep into your soul. There are more challenges coming their way and I cannot wait to find out what they will face. That cliffhanger left me on the edge of my seat. I screamed no into my kindle because I knew it was over. I am so excited for the next book. I will be counting the days.
March 17, 2026
I didn’t think anything could top how much I loved the original Death series (books 1-4)…then Princess of Death completely consumed me.
This next-generation story follows Lily—the daughter of the original main characters and the furthest thing from your typical princess. She’s fierce, restless, and determined to carve her own path in life. And that path leads her straight into the orbit of Wrath, the new God of the Underworld.
Wrath is *that* MMC. Slightly morally gray, devastatingly powerful, and utterly undone by Lily in a way that supercharges each interaction. Their dynamic is everything I want in a romance: tension-filled, emotionally raw, and evolving into something deeper than either expects. Every glance, every conversation, and every moment between them had me in a chokehold.
What stood out the most is how this book balances the plot’s intensity with emotional depth. Beneath all the power, danger, and undeniable chemistry, there’s real vulnerability. Lily grapples with her legacy and the weight of who she’s meant to become. Watching her step into her strength (in her own way) was incredibly satisfying. And Talon as a father? I didn’t think I could love him more. Throw in Wrath’s gut-wrenching sacrifices and devotion to those he loves and you will often be on the verge of tears.
The audiobook narration was solid. But I found myself wishing this was duet-style narration to enhance the dialogue between certain characters, namely Lily and Wrath. And while I liked both of the narrators, I felt like their voices/styles didn’t really fit the main characters. Even so, the real magic was the story itself. The characters, the tension, and the constant emotional pull did all the heavy lifting. So whether you listen on audio or eyeball read, you will fall in love with this addictive story.
And that ending? I’m still not okay. The combination of a major plot twist and heavy cliffhanger left me staring at a wall. I can’t wait to read the next book.
If you loved the original Death series, this is the perfect continuation that still stands in its own. Dark romance, a powerful heroine, and a God of the Underworld who falls for her hard. I ate this up! Penelope Barsetti has firmly cemented herself as an autobuy author for me.
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Penelope Barsetti for this ALC!
This next-generation story follows Lily—the daughter of the original main characters and the furthest thing from your typical princess. She’s fierce, restless, and determined to carve her own path in life. And that path leads her straight into the orbit of Wrath, the new God of the Underworld.
Wrath is *that* MMC. Slightly morally gray, devastatingly powerful, and utterly undone by Lily in a way that supercharges each interaction. Their dynamic is everything I want in a romance: tension-filled, emotionally raw, and evolving into something deeper than either expects. Every glance, every conversation, and every moment between them had me in a chokehold.
What stood out the most is how this book balances the plot’s intensity with emotional depth. Beneath all the power, danger, and undeniable chemistry, there’s real vulnerability. Lily grapples with her legacy and the weight of who she’s meant to become. Watching her step into her strength (in her own way) was incredibly satisfying. And Talon as a father? I didn’t think I could love him more. Throw in Wrath’s gut-wrenching sacrifices and devotion to those he loves and you will often be on the verge of tears.
The audiobook narration was solid. But I found myself wishing this was duet-style narration to enhance the dialogue between certain characters, namely Lily and Wrath. And while I liked both of the narrators, I felt like their voices/styles didn’t really fit the main characters. Even so, the real magic was the story itself. The characters, the tension, and the constant emotional pull did all the heavy lifting. So whether you listen on audio or eyeball read, you will fall in love with this addictive story.
And that ending? I’m still not okay. The combination of a major plot twist and heavy cliffhanger left me staring at a wall. I can’t wait to read the next book.
If you loved the original Death series, this is the perfect continuation that still stands in its own. Dark romance, a powerful heroine, and a God of the Underworld who falls for her hard. I ate this up! Penelope Barsetti has firmly cemented herself as an autobuy author for me.
Thank you to NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Penelope Barsetti for this ALC!
June 19, 2025
Easy and enjoyable read.
I enjoyed all the books in this series. They are easy to read and I found it hard to put any one of them down. Great story, unique if nothing else. I love a good fantasy, adventure that focuses on the intense romance of the characters. Who doesn't?! Overall this book didn't disappoint, but if I'm being really critical... I feel that it had the potential to be so much more.
For example....
Calista's character was unrecognizable to me in this book. The strong, spirited woman I read about in the previous 4 books was a force to be reckoned with. Her character experiences things that would be crippling for the "Average Joe/Jane." Calista was always fierce and only gained confidence as the books went on. She had many qualities that were more than admirable but because of her strength emotionally, and mentally she is a female main character that I won't be able to forget. This book not due her justice though and I was most disappointed in the apparent loss of her "spark." Even though she is just a supporting character in this book, I feel like her relationship with her only daughter was lacking severely, and the impact she had on her daughter's character could have been developed and presented better.
There were many instances throughout the book I felt were too similar and sometimes redundant. I lost count have many times wrath was described "as a mountain" or described to resemble a tree. Especially in the more spicy scenes, it wasn't only repetitive but also bizarre. When I think of a strong, powerful, sexy, sweating man, an oak tree or mountain are NOT the first things to come to mind.
And that being said the spicier sections of the book were less than climatic. Being touched intimately by a GOD could have been depicted better. The passion and creativity wasn't there. Such an experience should have been life altering for Lily or at least memorable.
Still, I will be anxiously waiting for the release of the next book in the series. I look forward to the rest of the adventure.
I enjoyed all the books in this series. They are easy to read and I found it hard to put any one of them down. Great story, unique if nothing else. I love a good fantasy, adventure that focuses on the intense romance of the characters. Who doesn't?! Overall this book didn't disappoint, but if I'm being really critical... I feel that it had the potential to be so much more.
For example....
Calista's character was unrecognizable to me in this book. The strong, spirited woman I read about in the previous 4 books was a force to be reckoned with. Her character experiences things that would be crippling for the "Average Joe/Jane." Calista was always fierce and only gained confidence as the books went on. She had many qualities that were more than admirable but because of her strength emotionally, and mentally she is a female main character that I won't be able to forget. This book not due her justice though and I was most disappointed in the apparent loss of her "spark." Even though she is just a supporting character in this book, I feel like her relationship with her only daughter was lacking severely, and the impact she had on her daughter's character could have been developed and presented better.
There were many instances throughout the book I felt were too similar and sometimes redundant. I lost count have many times wrath was described "as a mountain" or described to resemble a tree. Especially in the more spicy scenes, it wasn't only repetitive but also bizarre. When I think of a strong, powerful, sexy, sweating man, an oak tree or mountain are NOT the first things to come to mind.
And that being said the spicier sections of the book were less than climatic. Being touched intimately by a GOD could have been depicted better. The passion and creativity wasn't there. Such an experience should have been life altering for Lily or at least memorable.
Still, I will be anxiously waiting for the release of the next book in the series. I look forward to the rest of the adventure.
July 14, 2025
Princess of Death was the perfect addition to the Death Series! The time jump to focus on the next generation—specifically the adult daughter of Calista and Talon, the former Death King—was both unexpected and genius. Lily, the new protagonist, is a remarkable force. She embodies the best traits of both her parents: the strength, skill, and intelligence of a legendary warrior, combined with the regal presence of a born leader. And let’s be honest—she’s probably more stubborn than both of them combined.
Despite her royal legacy, Lily chooses to forge her own path. She rejects the throne to become a pirate, sailing the world in search of adventure and freedom. That’s how we meet Wrath—the dark, powerful successor to Bahamut, God of the Underworld. He is immediately drawn to Lily’s strength, fearlessness, and commanding presence.
What we don’t know at first is that Wrath’s position as ruler of the Underworld came at a steep price. In a desperate attempt to save the woman he once loved, he struck a deal that sealed his soul to darkness. In doing so, he lost everything. Now burdened with the role of judge and executioner in a realm of eternal suffering, Wrath meets Lily—and everything changes.
Initially, he seeks her out to settle a debt he believes is still owed by her father. But what he doesn’t expect is for Lily to bring light and hope back into his shadowed existence. What follows is an intense, emotional, and wildly adventurous journey filled with lust, sex, dragons, mythical creatures, battle, betrayal, and everything in between.
As always, Penelope leaves us hanging on the edge of a cliff—breathless, shocked, and desperate for more. The questions now swirl:
When will Lily learn the truth about Wrath’s past and his betrayal?
How will her parents and the elven kingdom react, especially after the victory she helped secure is seen as a betrayal of her own people?
And what’s next for Lily and Wrath, whose relationship is as complicated as it is magnetic?
This book had me hooked from start to finish. I can’t wait for the next installment!
Despite her royal legacy, Lily chooses to forge her own path. She rejects the throne to become a pirate, sailing the world in search of adventure and freedom. That’s how we meet Wrath—the dark, powerful successor to Bahamut, God of the Underworld. He is immediately drawn to Lily’s strength, fearlessness, and commanding presence.
What we don’t know at first is that Wrath’s position as ruler of the Underworld came at a steep price. In a desperate attempt to save the woman he once loved, he struck a deal that sealed his soul to darkness. In doing so, he lost everything. Now burdened with the role of judge and executioner in a realm of eternal suffering, Wrath meets Lily—and everything changes.
Initially, he seeks her out to settle a debt he believes is still owed by her father. But what he doesn’t expect is for Lily to bring light and hope back into his shadowed existence. What follows is an intense, emotional, and wildly adventurous journey filled with lust, sex, dragons, mythical creatures, battle, betrayal, and everything in between.
As always, Penelope leaves us hanging on the edge of a cliff—breathless, shocked, and desperate for more. The questions now swirl:
When will Lily learn the truth about Wrath’s past and his betrayal?
How will her parents and the elven kingdom react, especially after the victory she helped secure is seen as a betrayal of her own people?
And what’s next for Lily and Wrath, whose relationship is as complicated as it is magnetic?
This book had me hooked from start to finish. I can’t wait for the next installment!
June 11, 2025
Sizzling 🥵
The Rothschild’s have their kingdom back and the dragons have been freed. Talon and his family live in peace.
Lily Rothschild is next in line for the throne. Her father has trained her all her life for this role. But she wants to travel the world like her dad did. She takes off on a 6 month journey with her crew. Her dad warns her to stay away from the West and the dead island that is out there. On their return trip home they encounter a strong storm and get blown off course. They land on the dead island of the God of the Underworld.
Lily encounters Wrath and he knows who she is. He knows that her dad never settled his debt and says that she is his now. He’s taken in by her strength and beauty. The air is electric between them. He makes a deal with her to settle her father’s debt.
Wrath is such an unexpected surprise. He’s not ruthless like Bahamut was. He’s in this predicament because he sold his soul to save his wife. He wants out. His debt has been repaid. But the underworld won’t let him leave.
Lily and Wrath form this deep connection. She knows it’s wrong and her father would be furious if he knew she’s been seeing him. But Wrath shows up for her and is so caring. There chemistry is off the charts.
Wrath is not suppose to interfere with the living. But when Riviana Star is under attack and Talon, Lily and the dragons go to fight he’s by her side. But when Talon is hurt and things are looking bad for Lily’s side Wrath gifts her with his abilities.
Welcome the Death Queen.
What will happen with Wrath and the secret he hasn’t shared with Lily? What will the Covenant of the Underworld do to Wrath when they find out he’s interfered with the living? Will the Barbarians find Lily and the Southern Isles? Will Talon recover from his injuries? So many questions!!! Can’t wait for the next book. This series is explosive.
The Rothschild’s have their kingdom back and the dragons have been freed. Talon and his family live in peace.
Lily Rothschild is next in line for the throne. Her father has trained her all her life for this role. But she wants to travel the world like her dad did. She takes off on a 6 month journey with her crew. Her dad warns her to stay away from the West and the dead island that is out there. On their return trip home they encounter a strong storm and get blown off course. They land on the dead island of the God of the Underworld.
Lily encounters Wrath and he knows who she is. He knows that her dad never settled his debt and says that she is his now. He’s taken in by her strength and beauty. The air is electric between them. He makes a deal with her to settle her father’s debt.
Wrath is such an unexpected surprise. He’s not ruthless like Bahamut was. He’s in this predicament because he sold his soul to save his wife. He wants out. His debt has been repaid. But the underworld won’t let him leave.
Lily and Wrath form this deep connection. She knows it’s wrong and her father would be furious if he knew she’s been seeing him. But Wrath shows up for her and is so caring. There chemistry is off the charts.
Wrath is not suppose to interfere with the living. But when Riviana Star is under attack and Talon, Lily and the dragons go to fight he’s by her side. But when Talon is hurt and things are looking bad for Lily’s side Wrath gifts her with his abilities.
Welcome the Death Queen.
What will happen with Wrath and the secret he hasn’t shared with Lily? What will the Covenant of the Underworld do to Wrath when they find out he’s interfered with the living? Will the Barbarians find Lily and the Southern Isles? Will Talon recover from his injuries? So many questions!!! Can’t wait for the next book. This series is explosive.
August 23, 2025
Not a fan
I really liked the characters in the first books. This one doesn’t compare. Lily speaks in a cheap B-movie way compared to the other characters. She reads a bit entitled and pretentious “do you know who my dad is” “my dad will never let that happen”
The obvious, even acknowledged, favoritism of Lily by Talon compared to her brother bothered me
Talon mentions Hawk (the brother) one time and makes a vague statement about how he thinks he’s power hungry but when we meet Hawk he acknowledges that he resents his sister for her favorable treatment and it’s not her fault that their father cares for her more so that seemed more well-rounded than a power hungry brat. Also kind of heart breaking.
My feelings feel like Hawk is going to be turned into a villain to justify Talon’s favoritism.
Naturally Talons favoritism stems from his dead family again. Lily is also named after his dead daughter (Lily Lena).
I wasn’t super engaged with the romance because it went from 0-100 without anything in-between.
I wasn’t fond of Lily because there’s a lot of telling and some doing, I’m not completely knocking her, but the amount of praise she gets doesn’t seem justified all the time (to me). We weren’t with her growing up, we just get plopped into the story and it was just flat.
The ending made zero sense to me. Wrath states he doesn’t have to make deals with anyone, on-top of the fact he already made that deal and now what? It’s finished? Why is the story implying that he’s going to have to do more? No is a full sentence? What power does a pirate have over a god?
Anyways, the relationship is flat. Hawk is neglected (hope he goes NC). Talon (still) needs therapy. Ending implications didn’t make sense.
I really liked the characters in the first books. This one doesn’t compare. Lily speaks in a cheap B-movie way compared to the other characters. She reads a bit entitled and pretentious “do you know who my dad is” “my dad will never let that happen”
The obvious, even acknowledged, favoritism of Lily by Talon compared to her brother bothered me
Talon mentions Hawk (the brother) one time and makes a vague statement about how he thinks he’s power hungry but when we meet Hawk he acknowledges that he resents his sister for her favorable treatment and it’s not her fault that their father cares for her more so that seemed more well-rounded than a power hungry brat. Also kind of heart breaking.
My feelings feel like Hawk is going to be turned into a villain to justify Talon’s favoritism.
Naturally Talons favoritism stems from his dead family again. Lily is also named after his dead daughter (Lily Lena).
I wasn’t super engaged with the romance because it went from 0-100 without anything in-between.
I wasn’t fond of Lily because there’s a lot of telling and some doing, I’m not completely knocking her, but the amount of praise she gets doesn’t seem justified all the time (to me). We weren’t with her growing up, we just get plopped into the story and it was just flat.
The ending made zero sense to me. Wrath states he doesn’t have to make deals with anyone, on-top of the fact he already made that deal and now what? It’s finished? Why is the story implying that he’s going to have to do more? No is a full sentence? What power does a pirate have over a god?
Anyways, the relationship is flat. Hawk is neglected (hope he goes NC). Talon (still) needs therapy. Ending implications didn’t make sense.
June 11, 2025
Readers, if you have read the Death king series, you will absolutely love Princess of Death. The next generation of the Rothschild family.
Oldest child, a daughter, Lily is destined to be Queen. She has doubts, wondering if her brother, Hawk, should be King. He is 5 years younger, but their father has been training Lily since she was a child. He broke the tradition of a male ascending the throne.
Then Lily decides you wants adventure and travels with pirates to far away lands. She convinces her father that she is up for this adventure since he has trained her, to sail, in all types of weather. Also, has trained her to fight like a man and she is great with a sword and combat.
Her father’s only request that she never sail to the west. Of, course, due to a terrible storm and losing the captain and many of the crew their ship is thrown on to rocks. At dawn she takes in the island and everything is dead. Soon she is summoned by a voice in her head to come to him. She learns that the voice belongs to a behemoth of a man. Wrath the God of the Underworld.
He wants her to pay her father’s debt to his predecessor, but Lily stands up to him. Wrath struggles with these new feelings and makes a new deal with Lily and he will forego her father’s debt. Lily bring strong puts her conditions on this agreement. Which, again impresses Wrath.
How Wrath and Lily come together is hot and exquisite. Lily is the only one who sees him and can touch him.
Love the fact that Penelope has written several prologues. For both Lily and Wrath. They give a lot of background into their thoughts and what drives them.
I am now anxiously awaiting the 6th book!!
Oldest child, a daughter, Lily is destined to be Queen. She has doubts, wondering if her brother, Hawk, should be King. He is 5 years younger, but their father has been training Lily since she was a child. He broke the tradition of a male ascending the throne.
Then Lily decides you wants adventure and travels with pirates to far away lands. She convinces her father that she is up for this adventure since he has trained her, to sail, in all types of weather. Also, has trained her to fight like a man and she is great with a sword and combat.
Her father’s only request that she never sail to the west. Of, course, due to a terrible storm and losing the captain and many of the crew their ship is thrown on to rocks. At dawn she takes in the island and everything is dead. Soon she is summoned by a voice in her head to come to him. She learns that the voice belongs to a behemoth of a man. Wrath the God of the Underworld.
He wants her to pay her father’s debt to his predecessor, but Lily stands up to him. Wrath struggles with these new feelings and makes a new deal with Lily and he will forego her father’s debt. Lily bring strong puts her conditions on this agreement. Which, again impresses Wrath.
How Wrath and Lily come together is hot and exquisite. Lily is the only one who sees him and can touch him.
Love the fact that Penelope has written several prologues. For both Lily and Wrath. They give a lot of background into their thoughts and what drives them.
I am now anxiously awaiting the 6th book!!
June 17, 2025
This was my first romantasy read of Penelope Sky/Penelope Barsetti and I couldn’t put it down!
Although I started on book 5, it read easily and without confusion from the prior books in the series which is always a win!
Per usual, Penelope’s attention to detail in creating a world that makes you feel as if you’ve stepped directly into the scene is superb and if you’re in need of a new heroine to admire or book boyfriend to daydream over - you’ve found it!
Lily is nothing like the delicate flower that she is named after and in place of those petals are strength, determination, and courage like no other. She is not the type to fall head over heels for a man, especially one who has a hatred for her loving father, but Wrath peels back her layers with each interaction and has readers swooning early on with his dark and cool yet somehow protective and endearing demeanor.
He has plenty of layers himself and is a man of few words but his actions speak volumes and make up for his lack of dialogue. He shows up when it matters most which is a trait that is unmatched.
But like all great loves, it comes at a price, a risk. Is Lily worth the risk that will undoubtably come to Wrath for aiding her in her endeavors and attempting to protect her? Or will the price cost him the greatest love he’s ever known?
Will Lily run when she peels back the final layers of the man she loves? Or will she match his dedication to her and burn the world down to save them both? Join me in the suspense and counting down the days for more Wrath & Lily!
Although I started on book 5, it read easily and without confusion from the prior books in the series which is always a win!
Per usual, Penelope’s attention to detail in creating a world that makes you feel as if you’ve stepped directly into the scene is superb and if you’re in need of a new heroine to admire or book boyfriend to daydream over - you’ve found it!
Lily is nothing like the delicate flower that she is named after and in place of those petals are strength, determination, and courage like no other. She is not the type to fall head over heels for a man, especially one who has a hatred for her loving father, but Wrath peels back her layers with each interaction and has readers swooning early on with his dark and cool yet somehow protective and endearing demeanor.
He has plenty of layers himself and is a man of few words but his actions speak volumes and make up for his lack of dialogue. He shows up when it matters most which is a trait that is unmatched.
But like all great loves, it comes at a price, a risk. Is Lily worth the risk that will undoubtably come to Wrath for aiding her in her endeavors and attempting to protect her? Or will the price cost him the greatest love he’s ever known?
Will Lily run when she peels back the final layers of the man she loves? Or will she match his dedication to her and burn the world down to save them both? Join me in the suspense and counting down the days for more Wrath & Lily!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2025
5/5 ⭐
3.5/5 🌶️
I'm so happy we get a next gen for the Death Series! Those four books put me through the ringer, and I'm so ready to dive back into that world.
Lily is a great tough girl FMC that's not overwritten like "ooo, she's not like other princesses, she's so tough, grrr". She wants to make her own way and isn't quite sure she's ready for what she was born to do. Just another gal trying to find out who she is with some adventure on the side. Talon is more than willing to lean into that girl dad era he was craving for after what happened to Lena. And of course, creates some family tension at the same time... I'm wondering if the storyline with her brother is gonna get worse before it gets better...
Wrath is that good guy that has to be the big bad cuz hey, sacrifices had to be made and he got the short end of the stick. His back story just tweaks my heart strings. (Penelope is so good at that...) Bahamut just wrecking everyone's life, even after being vanquished. He's stuck in this impossible situation, but man does he fall fast for Lily. It's a definite insta-lust that gets insta-love real quick, just a heads up.
We get a great start to this new addition to the series with some adventure, fight scenes, action, great spice, great character introductions, and of course, the dragons! What's up, Khazmuda! There's characters from the previous books and a previous series (love a good Easter egg), so that's always fun. But as always, you're gonna get hit with the cliffhanger, so get ready. I can't wait to see where this story hits next!
3.5/5 🌶️
I'm so happy we get a next gen for the Death Series! Those four books put me through the ringer, and I'm so ready to dive back into that world.
Lily is a great tough girl FMC that's not overwritten like "ooo, she's not like other princesses, she's so tough, grrr". She wants to make her own way and isn't quite sure she's ready for what she was born to do. Just another gal trying to find out who she is with some adventure on the side. Talon is more than willing to lean into that girl dad era he was craving for after what happened to Lena. And of course, creates some family tension at the same time... I'm wondering if the storyline with her brother is gonna get worse before it gets better...
Wrath is that good guy that has to be the big bad cuz hey, sacrifices had to be made and he got the short end of the stick. His back story just tweaks my heart strings. (Penelope is so good at that...) Bahamut just wrecking everyone's life, even after being vanquished. He's stuck in this impossible situation, but man does he fall fast for Lily. It's a definite insta-lust that gets insta-love real quick, just a heads up.
We get a great start to this new addition to the series with some adventure, fight scenes, action, great spice, great character introductions, and of course, the dragons! What's up, Khazmuda! There's characters from the previous books and a previous series (love a good Easter egg), so that's always fun. But as always, you're gonna get hit with the cliffhanger, so get ready. I can't wait to see where this story hits next!
June 9, 2025
I’m not okay. I just finished Princess of Death!! Penelope has done it again and somehow, Princess of Death turns the heat, heartbreak, and high stakes up even higher than before. Dragons. Rothschilds. The literal God of the Underworld. This book delivers. But it’s Lily and Wrath (Callum) who completely consumed me. Their chemistry is explosive. Every scene between them crackles with tension and heat. Lily is everything I crave in a heroine strong, defiant, and unafraid to carve her own path, even when destiny has other plans. And Wrath… oh, Wrath. His name may echo doom, but his soul is bruised and beautiful. As his past unfurls, I found myself aching for him his story is tragic, poignant, and powerful. Fans of Talon will feel that familiar sting of heartbreak. Both scarred by the past but while Talon has found his light, Wrath is still deep in the shadows. Penelope pulled me right back into this world of magic, danger, and broken gods and she did not hold back. Just when you think you know where the story is going, she slams the brakes, flips the narrative, and leaves you breathless. Twists, turns, betrayals, and cliffhangers that hurt in the best way this book is a rollercoaster of emotions. If you thought the Death Series was addictive before, Princess of Death is the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. It’s sensual, savage, and soul-stealing. A true chef’s kiss of dark fantasy romance. And that ending? I’m still recovering.
June 13, 2025
I've read a lot of Ms. Barsetti's books and never has a character made me so sad. Wrath is the saddest character in the history of her books (in my opinion). Yes, he's big and a badass but there is a sadness to him that does something to me. His gave up his soul to save his wife but he also had to leave his family for all of eternity. His wife then betrayed him by hooking up with his brother less than a year later and his children would never know him. There is a part of the book where he talks about this with Lily and he says that she is the light in his dark existence. I found the book to be sad but it is also the best in this series.
I am not a big fan of the fantasy genre where people have their "souls" walking around for eternity, and dragons fly in the sky, but it's growing on me. Another thing that I could not wrap my brain around was the mention of Barsetti Wines in this story. I know it is the wine of choice in a lot of Penelope Sky's books, and the Barsetti's are 21st century humans, so how is their wine consumed in this realm, where we don't know what year it is? I don't know why I'm tripping on that. Anyhoo, I enjoyed the book and look forward to see how it ends. Let's hope that Wrath (cool name by the way) gets some happiness in his life. And Lily is able to tell her dad how she disobeyed him and her love of Wrath. Does Talon survive? Does Lily become Queen? We'll know in the next book...
I am not a big fan of the fantasy genre where people have their "souls" walking around for eternity, and dragons fly in the sky, but it's growing on me. Another thing that I could not wrap my brain around was the mention of Barsetti Wines in this story. I know it is the wine of choice in a lot of Penelope Sky's books, and the Barsetti's are 21st century humans, so how is their wine consumed in this realm, where we don't know what year it is? I don't know why I'm tripping on that. Anyhoo, I enjoyed the book and look forward to see how it ends. Let's hope that Wrath (cool name by the way) gets some happiness in his life. And Lily is able to tell her dad how she disobeyed him and her love of Wrath. Does Talon survive? Does Lily become Queen? We'll know in the next book...
March 5, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an eALC copy of the book in exchange for my honest review
Princess of Death is the fifth book in the Death Series, and it stands up the to high bar set by the first four books. It’s been nearly a quarter of a century since Talon, with the help of Calista, retook his throne and the two are ready for a quiet life with their family. Their daughter Lily, however, says absolutely not. She’s wild, she’s headstrong, and she couldn’t care less about being the type of princess her parents want. Talon, of course, being the loving parent that he is, indulges her and allows her to explore her love for adventure with one rule - don’t set foot on the dead island. But fate doesn’t often listen to over protective fathers, and lily finds herself stranded on the island after a freak storm. It’s there that she meets the god of the underworld who is intent on collecting on the debt Lily’s father owes him. But how he collects on that debt leaves Lily surprised but more than willing to do what she’s asked.
The chemistry between this couple is absolutely incredible from the very first moment and it leaps off the page. There’s an instant pull between the two of them that has you sucked in immediately and you can’t stop. And Ramona and Michael as the narrators did an AMAZING job bringing that tension to life in the most delicious of way.
And that ending? I am not okay after that ending. I need the next book like 10 minutes ago.
Princess of Death is the fifth book in the Death Series, and it stands up the to high bar set by the first four books. It’s been nearly a quarter of a century since Talon, with the help of Calista, retook his throne and the two are ready for a quiet life with their family. Their daughter Lily, however, says absolutely not. She’s wild, she’s headstrong, and she couldn’t care less about being the type of princess her parents want. Talon, of course, being the loving parent that he is, indulges her and allows her to explore her love for adventure with one rule - don’t set foot on the dead island. But fate doesn’t often listen to over protective fathers, and lily finds herself stranded on the island after a freak storm. It’s there that she meets the god of the underworld who is intent on collecting on the debt Lily’s father owes him. But how he collects on that debt leaves Lily surprised but more than willing to do what she’s asked.
The chemistry between this couple is absolutely incredible from the very first moment and it leaps off the page. There’s an instant pull between the two of them that has you sucked in immediately and you can’t stop. And Ramona and Michael as the narrators did an AMAZING job bringing that tension to life in the most delicious of way.
And that ending? I am not okay after that ending. I need the next book like 10 minutes ago.
March 24, 2026
🌟🌟🌟
Genre: Dark Fantasy
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers
Spice: 🌶🌶
Vampires, Dragons, pirates, elves
This is the 5th book in the Death series. This book picks up 24yrs after the previous book, with Lily grown up and settings sail with her crew. Shortly after the story begins a storm knocks the ship off course and pushes them to the East where their ship ends up at an island. Then the God of the Underworld finds her & he wants her body to pay for the debt of her father.
Things I loved: Despite not reading the first 4 books I wanted to give this book a try, and I'm glad I did. The pace was fast moving & keeps the reader engaged. The book gripped me immediately from the start. Penelope Barsetti is an incredibly story teller! With the description being so well done, I felt like I was on an adventure alongside the MFC.
Things I didn't love: The MFC was built up to be such a strong leader, but at the 27% mark she felt short. She had so much potential. Enemies to lovers only lasted for a moment, "insta-lust" seems to be more accurate. This book started out with so much detail and steady flow, but at thr end everything felt incredibly rushed.
I would recommend this book to anybody who likes dark fantasy, adventure based fantasy, and a MMC that is like Hades.
Thank you to NetGallery, Penelope Barsetti, and Dreamscape Media for giving me the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Genre: Dark Fantasy
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers
Spice: 🌶🌶
Vampires, Dragons, pirates, elves
This is the 5th book in the Death series. This book picks up 24yrs after the previous book, with Lily grown up and settings sail with her crew. Shortly after the story begins a storm knocks the ship off course and pushes them to the East where their ship ends up at an island. Then the God of the Underworld finds her & he wants her body to pay for the debt of her father.
Things I loved: Despite not reading the first 4 books I wanted to give this book a try, and I'm glad I did. The pace was fast moving & keeps the reader engaged. The book gripped me immediately from the start. Penelope Barsetti is an incredibly story teller! With the description being so well done, I felt like I was on an adventure alongside the MFC.
Things I didn't love: The MFC was built up to be such a strong leader, but at the 27% mark she felt short. She had so much potential. Enemies to lovers only lasted for a moment, "insta-lust" seems to be more accurate. This book started out with so much detail and steady flow, but at thr end everything felt incredibly rushed.
I would recommend this book to anybody who likes dark fantasy, adventure based fantasy, and a MMC that is like Hades.
Thank you to NetGallery, Penelope Barsetti, and Dreamscape Media for giving me the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2025
Princess of Death, the fifth installment in Penelope Barsetti’s riveting series, is a powerful continuation of a saga that has become one of her most compelling works to date. Returning to a world already rich with history and emotion, Barsetti introduces readers to Lily Rothschild—the fierce and formidable daughter of Talon and Calista. From the very first page, the story propels forward with a relentless energy, immersing readers in Lily’s world of power, legacy, and vulnerability.
Lily is every bit the force of nature one would expect from her lineage. Raised and trained by a father as formidable as Talon, she emerges as a woman who commands attention and respect. Yet, her strength is soon tested when a mysterious man enters her life, disrupting everything she thought she knew—not only about herself but about the carefully buried secrets of her family’s past.
Barsetti masterfully weaves together action, romance, and emotional depth, crafting a story that refuses to let go. The pacing is tight, the revelations impactful, and the character dynamics—especially within the Rothschild family—are incredibly satisfying. For fans of the series, Princess of Death is everything they could hope for: bold, emotional, and utterly addictive. It’s a thrilling chapter in a saga that shows no signs of losing momentum.
Lily is every bit the force of nature one would expect from her lineage. Raised and trained by a father as formidable as Talon, she emerges as a woman who commands attention and respect. Yet, her strength is soon tested when a mysterious man enters her life, disrupting everything she thought she knew—not only about herself but about the carefully buried secrets of her family’s past.
Barsetti masterfully weaves together action, romance, and emotional depth, crafting a story that refuses to let go. The pacing is tight, the revelations impactful, and the character dynamics—especially within the Rothschild family—are incredibly satisfying. For fans of the series, Princess of Death is everything they could hope for: bold, emotional, and utterly addictive. It’s a thrilling chapter in a saga that shows no signs of losing momentum.
June 15, 2025
Princess of Death is the fifth book in the Death Series, and it did not hold back. It’s been 24 years of peace since Talon reclaimed his kingdom and freed the dragons, and he and Calista have built a quiet, love-filled life with their kids. But their daughter Lily? She's not built for the palace. She’s wild, bold, craves adventure, and couldn’t care less about being a “proper” princess. She fights, hunts, fishes—and doesn’t wait around for permission.
Talon, understandably, is terrified for her safety but lets her go explore the world—with one warning: don’t ever set foot on the dead island. Of course, fate has its own plans. Lily gets caught in a storm and meets the God of the Underworld.
He’s terrifyingly beautiful. And the moment he and Lily meet, you feel it—that instant pull. He makes it clear: he’s going to collect what her father owes. But instead of taking her life or her soul, he wants her body—on demand. And she agrees. Their chemistry is unreal. The tension, the intensity—he barely touches her and it’s electric.
And that ending? I am not okay. I need the next book. Like, yesterday. I loved it, and PS is truly back with her writing and fascinating story plot. This books slaps HARD.
Talon, understandably, is terrified for her safety but lets her go explore the world—with one warning: don’t ever set foot on the dead island. Of course, fate has its own plans. Lily gets caught in a storm and meets the God of the Underworld.
He’s terrifyingly beautiful. And the moment he and Lily meet, you feel it—that instant pull. He makes it clear: he’s going to collect what her father owes. But instead of taking her life or her soul, he wants her body—on demand. And she agrees. Their chemistry is unreal. The tension, the intensity—he barely touches her and it’s electric.
And that ending? I am not okay. I need the next book. Like, yesterday. I loved it, and PS is truly back with her writing and fascinating story plot. This books slaps HARD.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews