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This Ravenous Fate #2
Our Vicious Descent
In this stunning conclusion to the bestselling Ravenous Fate duology, Elise Saint and Layla Quinn must discover the truths behind an alluring poison and the monstrous new presence ravaging New York City
In 1927, shocking upheavals have rocked Harlem's most powerful factions and left Elise Saint estranged from the reaper she loves, Layla Quinn. The Saint family empire is in decline, gangster-run blood houses peddle debauchery, and a dangerous reaper-venom drug has become all the rage with wealthy thrill-seekers. Elise is desperate to find her beloved little sister, Josi, who has gone missing in the chaos. Meanwhile, Layla contends with shifting alliances in the New York underworld, including Karine, an ancient reaper, and the gangster Nicoletta—both with scores to settle.
And then a terrifying new threat a beast making swift, murderous rampages through the city, keeping to darkness while hunting reapers and humans alike. Layla and Elise are joined in purpose when they suspect the monster's origins are related to a far deeper mystery that involves Josi, Karine, and a disquieting new future for reapers. Soon, they will risk everything to unearth these secrets, where the shadowy boundaries between the dead and the living are even more treacherous than they imagined.
In 1927, shocking upheavals have rocked Harlem's most powerful factions and left Elise Saint estranged from the reaper she loves, Layla Quinn. The Saint family empire is in decline, gangster-run blood houses peddle debauchery, and a dangerous reaper-venom drug has become all the rage with wealthy thrill-seekers. Elise is desperate to find her beloved little sister, Josi, who has gone missing in the chaos. Meanwhile, Layla contends with shifting alliances in the New York underworld, including Karine, an ancient reaper, and the gangster Nicoletta—both with scores to settle.
And then a terrifying new threat a beast making swift, murderous rampages through the city, keeping to darkness while hunting reapers and humans alike. Layla and Elise are joined in purpose when they suspect the monster's origins are related to a far deeper mystery that involves Josi, Karine, and a disquieting new future for reapers. Soon, they will risk everything to unearth these secrets, where the shadowy boundaries between the dead and the living are even more treacherous than they imagined.
505 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2025
41 people are currently reading
14430 people want to read
About the author
Hayley Dennings
4 books4,902 followersHayley Dennings is a recent graduate from Loyola Marymount University, where she double majored in English and French with a concentration in diversity and inclusion. Hayley loves stories centered on queer female characters and dedicates her writing to actively resisting misogynoir. She currently resides in the Bay Area, working as an editorial and marketing associate for Fable. When Hayley is not working, she is spending time with her dogs, reading, painting, and baking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
September 29, 2025
this was incredibly disappointing. while i didn’t love the first book, i at least was interested in seeing where things would go. unfortunately it went nowhere. or rather it went in the same circle again and again and it was just not fun to read. and i feel as though everything was so stagnant until it…wasn’t. not in a slow development way just that it HAPPENED because we were in the last act. it was such a slog. i really would’ve dnfed if it wasn’t the fact that this was an ARC. at least it went out with a bang. this really could’ve been so good but everything was just lacking. and the world building,,,how do you make 1920s harlem so lifeless?
thank you to netgalley for the arc.
thank you to netgalley for the arc.
August 1, 2025
Our vicious descent by Hayley Dennings
Layla and Elise’s connection carried it for me. I sadly didn’t care that much about finding the sister or the beast threat. I found the book really long and redundant. But Layla and Elise will always have my heart. “You taste so good, my love. I truly believe just your love is enough to quench my thirst forever.”
Layla and Elise’s connection carried it for me. I sadly didn’t care that much about finding the sister or the beast threat. I found the book really long and redundant. But Layla and Elise will always have my heart. “You taste so good, my love. I truly believe just your love is enough to quench my thirst forever.”
March 28, 2024
I NEED THIS NOW 😭
November 14, 2025
I love vampires, I love sapphic people therefore I adored this.
I knew I had to read these books when the author discussed how it was a discussion around the treatment black women receive, the inability to let their rightful anger show for fear of proving people right, the need to have to always be perfect because odds are stacked against you and one wrong move would make them all fall. I think vampirism is a widespreading topic that can be used to explore so so many interesting topics, particularly queerness and race- so this was right down my alley.
I was really interested to see how the world was going to develop alongside the sapphic romance plot. this picks up right where book one left off which was a little hard to get into bc I read it so long ago but once I’d caught back up I really didn’t want to put it down, it felt like running full speed towards a conclusion you know is going to be awful but you can’t stop. overall I think this is a really good set of books that discusses many important issues <3
I knew I had to read these books when the author discussed how it was a discussion around the treatment black women receive, the inability to let their rightful anger show for fear of proving people right, the need to have to always be perfect because odds are stacked against you and one wrong move would make them all fall. I think vampirism is a widespreading topic that can be used to explore so so many interesting topics, particularly queerness and race- so this was right down my alley.
I was really interested to see how the world was going to develop alongside the sapphic romance plot. this picks up right where book one left off which was a little hard to get into bc I read it so long ago but once I’d caught back up I really didn’t want to put it down, it felt like running full speed towards a conclusion you know is going to be awful but you can’t stop. overall I think this is a really good set of books that discusses many important issues <3
December 23, 2025
This was honest to God, so hard for me to get through.
First of all, the Arcane resemblance was hard to ignore. I get wanting to play with a dynamic you like, but some scenes were very similar to the show, like nearly paraphrasing the scenes. And now it wasn’t just Elise and Layla feeling like Caitlyn and Vi, but Elise and Josi had some scenes that mirrored Powder and Vi. It was very on the nose, and it took me out for the lack of care.
It wasn’t the only reason the book never felt original. Everything was overused and cliched—the plot, the tropes, character arcs. And even the ending, which went to the exact opposite of Arcane.
The characters—main and side— were fundamental and didn’t feel constructed enough; they had the same underlying personality.
The villains were especially rough on me. I have noticed this a lot with newer authors, for lack of motive and development mixed with awkward and dramatic dialogues, the villains end up feeling like a cartoon version of “evil”. Which makes it very hard to take them seriously, and if I can’t take the impossible threat seriously, the whole plot starts to feel silly and not tense. Adding to that, how often things happen for pure convenience, the story loses credibility.
Pacing was another major issue. This could have easily been a hundred pages shorter. The first 25% felt stretched out and added almost nothing to the story; what it was trying to achieve could’ve been done in a fraction of that time.
So many dialogues were clunky and unnatural. I didn’t notice it as much in the first book, so maybe the editing slipped or maybe it was the fact that this time I listened to the audiobook, which made it stand out more, but some lines were genuinely cringe.
Same with narration. Countless filler words were reused constantly, and the atmosphere was basically nonexistent. A historical fantasy with vampires should feel rich and immersive, but here the “history” was mostly a few clothing mentions and some random old-sounding words thrown in. It didn’t create a real sense of time or place at all.
Let’s end with the romance… Elise and Layla didn’t work for me in the first book, and talking about on-page development, they worked less now. Their feelings rely on their trauma and shared past instead of actual development. Their closeness felt forced, and not in a plot-driven or emotional way—just out of convenience, which pretty much sums up everything in this book.
In the end, the book felt forgettable, unoriginal, and unfortunately, not well executed.
First of all, the Arcane resemblance was hard to ignore. I get wanting to play with a dynamic you like, but some scenes were very similar to the show, like nearly paraphrasing the scenes. And now it wasn’t just Elise and Layla feeling like Caitlyn and Vi, but Elise and Josi had some scenes that mirrored Powder and Vi. It was very on the nose, and it took me out for the lack of care.
It wasn’t the only reason the book never felt original. Everything was overused and cliched—the plot, the tropes, character arcs. And even the ending, which went to the exact opposite of Arcane.
The characters—main and side— were fundamental and didn’t feel constructed enough; they had the same underlying personality.
The villains were especially rough on me. I have noticed this a lot with newer authors, for lack of motive and development mixed with awkward and dramatic dialogues, the villains end up feeling like a cartoon version of “evil”. Which makes it very hard to take them seriously, and if I can’t take the impossible threat seriously, the whole plot starts to feel silly and not tense. Adding to that, how often things happen for pure convenience, the story loses credibility.
Pacing was another major issue. This could have easily been a hundred pages shorter. The first 25% felt stretched out and added almost nothing to the story; what it was trying to achieve could’ve been done in a fraction of that time.
So many dialogues were clunky and unnatural. I didn’t notice it as much in the first book, so maybe the editing slipped or maybe it was the fact that this time I listened to the audiobook, which made it stand out more, but some lines were genuinely cringe.
Same with narration. Countless filler words were reused constantly, and the atmosphere was basically nonexistent. A historical fantasy with vampires should feel rich and immersive, but here the “history” was mostly a few clothing mentions and some random old-sounding words thrown in. It didn’t create a real sense of time or place at all.
Let’s end with the romance… Elise and Layla didn’t work for me in the first book, and talking about on-page development, they worked less now. Their feelings rely on their trauma and shared past instead of actual development. Their closeness felt forced, and not in a plot-driven or emotional way—just out of convenience, which pretty much sums up everything in this book.
In the end, the book felt forgettable, unoriginal, and unfortunately, not well executed.
November 9, 2025
This was a good conclusion to this duology. I thought the stakes were high in this one and the twists were done well. I like that even though at its core this is a story about a reaper and her hunter there are so many themes still being delved into like in the first book. Racism, family dynamics, mental health issues etc. i didn’t expect the book to be so dark with all the deaths rampage and other stuff but it kept me engaged and intrigued till the last page. Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
3.5/5
3.5/5
June 29, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me read early.
Rating: 2.5 stars
After loving book 1 I’m devastated that this did not live up to my expectations.
Everything that slightly bothered me in book 1 was a hundred time worse here.
The plot was all over the place and extremely repetitive. They went somewhere, something went wrong and they went back to Jamie’s being covered in blood. Literally, that’s basically the whole plot.
And while I truly loved the found family in here I felt like the author handed out redemption arcs like candy on Halloween lmao. Almost none of the absolute fatal betrayals from book 1 were even mentioned and everyone was like whatever let’s move on.
I feel like this book could’ve easily been shortened by at least 150 pages by simply cutting out a few of the completely random and unnecessary disasters. I understand that everything happened in order to solve this whole mystery but it got old way too soon.
The build up of the plot has been exactly like in book 1 but executed even worse.
And for me, the jumping between POVs was poorly executed and confusing. It often felt too drastic and in some chapters even like the scenes didn’t even belong together, like there was a mistake because it often just didn’t make any sense.
As for the relationship between Layla and Elise, I liked their dynamic even though it was a bit hot and cold. The ending, for some reason was beautiful. I didn’t see it coming but even though it’s devastating I liked it.
Overall I appreciate this duology for what it is: a very atmospheric story of oppression, revenge and autonomy. The spin on vampires (or reapers in this case) was extremely creative and didn’t feel like the same lukewarm vampire story we know since twilight.
I really enjoyed the references to real struggles black people had and still have to live through and found them to be perfectly integrated into this story.
I would still totally recommend to read this, especially after loving book 1 as the conclusion is lovely and wraps up this story very nice. I just think a lot more editing would’ve been needed to tell this story in all its glory.
Rating: 2.5 stars
After loving book 1 I’m devastated that this did not live up to my expectations.
Everything that slightly bothered me in book 1 was a hundred time worse here.
The plot was all over the place and extremely repetitive. They went somewhere, something went wrong and they went back to Jamie’s being covered in blood. Literally, that’s basically the whole plot.
And while I truly loved the found family in here I felt like the author handed out redemption arcs like candy on Halloween lmao. Almost none of the absolute fatal betrayals from book 1 were even mentioned and everyone was like whatever let’s move on.
I feel like this book could’ve easily been shortened by at least 150 pages by simply cutting out a few of the completely random and unnecessary disasters. I understand that everything happened in order to solve this whole mystery but it got old way too soon.
The build up of the plot has been exactly like in book 1 but executed even worse.
And for me, the jumping between POVs was poorly executed and confusing. It often felt too drastic and in some chapters even like the scenes didn’t even belong together, like there was a mistake because it often just didn’t make any sense.
As for the relationship between Layla and Elise, I liked their dynamic even though it was a bit hot and cold. The ending, for some reason was beautiful. I didn’t see it coming but even though it’s devastating I liked it.
Overall I appreciate this duology for what it is: a very atmospheric story of oppression, revenge and autonomy. The spin on vampires (or reapers in this case) was extremely creative and didn’t feel like the same lukewarm vampire story we know since twilight.
I really enjoyed the references to real struggles black people had and still have to live through and found them to be perfectly integrated into this story.
I would still totally recommend to read this, especially after loving book 1 as the conclusion is lovely and wraps up this story very nice. I just think a lot more editing would’ve been needed to tell this story in all its glory.
August 2, 2025
˗ˏˋ 2 stars ⟡ ݁₊ .
idk how i feel about this book. the plot was kinda all over the place and sometimes it felt really repetitive. the POVs kinda jumped around and it got kinda confusing to me at one point. if this book went through several more rounds of editing, i'm sure it would be amazing.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
idk how i feel about this book. the plot was kinda all over the place and sometimes it felt really repetitive. the POVs kinda jumped around and it got kinda confusing to me at one point. if this book went through several more rounds of editing, i'm sure it would be amazing.
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2025
After enjoying the first one I was excited to jump back into Layla and Elise's story. However, I found that I didn't care as much about the little sister, Josi, like I should have. The story felt like it could have been shorter by a hundred pages if it had reigned in on some of the side plots.
Overall, this is a refreshing take on vampires (reapers). Harlem, vampires, found family, oppression, and revenge tie this duology together so well that the ending packs a punch. While I was frustrated by the ending of the duology, it made sense for the story the author was trying to tell.
I would be interested in another standalone in this universe, even just a novella, that gives us another look at the characters after the novel ends.
Overall, this is a refreshing take on vampires (reapers). Harlem, vampires, found family, oppression, and revenge tie this duology together so well that the ending packs a punch. While I was frustrated by the ending of the duology, it made sense for the story the author was trying to tell.
I would be interested in another standalone in this universe, even just a novella, that gives us another look at the characters after the novel ends.
October 22, 2025
I absolutely devoured the first book in this duology, but the sequel moved at a noticeably slower pace for me. I’d rate it a solid 3.5 stars, rounding up to 4. It was nice to see Layla and Elise’s relationship continue, even with all its ups and downs, but I found myself wanting more from the Josie storyline—it didn’t quite land the way I hoped.
I often struggle with sequels when I love the first book so much that I wish the story had ended there, and unfortunately, this was one of those cases. The ending of the first book felt satisfying to me, and while this follow-up will definitely please readers looking for more time in that world, it didn’t fully work for me personally.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for the early copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I often struggle with sequels when I love the first book so much that I wish the story had ended there, and unfortunately, this was one of those cases. The ending of the first book felt satisfying to me, and while this follow-up will definitely please readers looking for more time in that world, it didn’t fully work for me personally.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for the early copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
November 18, 2025
This book was written for the arcane lovers.
I love how the relationship between Elise and Layla developed, but the structure of the plot was kind of a mess and I struggled to really understand the logic behind the new kinds of poison etc for the larger part of the book. The found family (kind of ?) group dynamic and banter between the characters made this a very enjoyable read, the writing was atmospheric and incredibly beautiful at times.
Overall, in think this is a great sequel and conclusion to the story, the ending had me in tears.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley for a digital arc in exchange for my honest review.
I love how the relationship between Elise and Layla developed, but the structure of the plot was kind of a mess and I struggled to really understand the logic behind the new kinds of poison etc for the larger part of the book. The found family (kind of ?) group dynamic and banter between the characters made this a very enjoyable read, the writing was atmospheric and incredibly beautiful at times.
Overall, in think this is a great sequel and conclusion to the story, the ending had me in tears.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley for a digital arc in exchange for my honest review.
December 4, 2025
“‘You must never forget that we were created, Layla. They made us like this and punish us for it.’”
***
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for giving me an ARC in exchange for a review!
I desperately wanted this sequel to be an improvement upon This Ravenous Fate. I wanted to LOVE this book. I’m so disappointed to say that not only was I let down on both counts; I also think this book was perhaps lower in quality than the first.
General Writing
As in the first book, there was quite a bit of on the nose “telling” throughout the narration that I was not a fan of. I don’t think it occurred quite as frequently this time around as in TRF, but I could be misremembering. Contemporary-sounding language, especially when it comes to dialogue (Elise literally says “‘That���s a you problem’” at one point, which does not sound like the speech of a 1920s person), also continues to be an issue originating in the previous book. Yet another issue that carries over from book 1 is the wonky and inconsistent POV. While reading, I felt like the narration constantly went in and out of omniscient and limited third, and there may or may not be head hopping. Third person can be a really difficult perspective to write in that regard, but that’s where an editor is supposed to come in.
Another area where an editor is supposed to come in: awkward prose. I couldn’t believe how many clunky and even straight up run-on sentences I came across, especially towards the end of the book. It’s so strange because when I first started reading, I was convinced that the writing had gotten stronger. And yet, as the novel went on, it was as if the quality devolved. Take the following sentence, for instance:
“She stepped away from Layla as Arendale and her father approached the small cage made of Saint steel that had been containing Sena for the past few hours, all thanks to Nicoletta and her full surrender of the Saint compound because of the reapers’ and Elise’s assistance in freeing them of Sena.”
Like what is this? How was this not addressed during the line edit??
Also, this is more of a nitpick, but the dialogue tags on almost every spoken sentence get distracting. I don’t think any conversation better exemplifies this than the one between Karine and Elise at the Renaissance Ballroom. Every time it switches speakers, there’s either a tag (she murmured, she said) or some action or sentence describing the speaker’s mannerisms (“she shrugged,” “her hand tightened around the vial of venom”), so we are constantly reminded of the speaker even though only two people are talking.
Storytelling
One thing that I found myself struck by was how convenient some of the plot points were.
(I’m not even sure I understand how anything surrounding blood works. Elise’s blood is variously described as being “tainted” or “infected” with Layla’s venom, with Layla’s blood, with Layla’s tainted blood, and with Layla’s tainted venom (which makes the least sense—how can something toxic be tainted?). Which one is it? Whose blood is tainted and by which thing? ALSO, IS IT POISON OR VENOM? Bites are variously said to poison or to infect. I’m fairly certain that “poison” and “venom” are used interchangeably more than once, despite the fact that “poison” is also used to refer to a separate thing that is basically manufactured venom with different effects. The terminology is inconsistent and ill-defined, which is confusing.)
Then there’s the plot twist:
I was also struck by how repetitive the storytelling felt. Not only do the wild goose chases for Josi, Karine, and Sena feel like the same subplot copy pasted with a few details changed between them; the scenes of graphic violence (and there are plenty) also begin to get old. They fail to shock or excite, particularly because nothing can quite top Layla literally stuffing a bloody hand into Nicoletta’s mouth. Also, in a later action sequence, I’m fairly certain that Layla is described as tearing out Nicoletta’s throat twice. The violence gets repetitive even within individual scenes.
Thirdly, something that I couldn’t help noticing was—and I hate to say it—how reminiscent certain scenes and plot points were of the show Arcane. I’m actually shocked that no other reviews have mentioned this yet because the author has made her inspiration from Arcane (namely CaitVi’s relationship) known; not only that, but the similarities, to me, were also not at all subtle. I’m not accusing this author of plagiarism, but I feel compelled to mention this because it significantly impacted my enjoyment of the story.
Lastly, this may be due to personal preference, but I just was not into the war plot at all. I had been under the impression that the story would be more Elise-Josi focused, which, compared to book 1, it is. But compared to what I’d expected, it didn’t quite satisfy.
Characters
I often felt frustrated by characters and the actions they took that, to me, made little sense story-wise. For one, Elise doesn’t do enough penitence for how she backstabbed Layla by killing Valeriya. I don’t care that Valeriya is a villain: at the time Elise killed her, she was still a mother figure and mentor in Layla’s eyes. It’s also frustrating that Sterling is given a hard time by Layla for shooting a gun at Elise; yes, that’s bad, but so is the fact that Elise literally almost murdered him by injecting him with poison that would’ve killed him if he hadn’t been shot with an antidote seconds later. Elise’s betrayals are seemingly all swept under the rug, which makes it feel like the narrative wants us to believe that Elise has done no wrong.
Another character whose behaviors are confusing is Tobias. To me, it makes no sense that he wouldn’t be concerned about the “monster”--Sterling tries to explain that it’s because it’s mostly affecting reapers, but this is after it literally
Romance
Lack of chemistry between Elise and Layla remains a problem following book 1. Once again, I think a lot of this stems from their forced, awkward banter and even more forced, awkward romantic/steamy scenes. Take, for example, the “lap dance” Elise gives Layla on stage in a blood house. As punishment for damaging the premises, the manager tells them to put on a show involving TORTURE, not sexy time. It makes no sense that she lets it go on for so long, especially as the patrons quickly lose interest. This isn’t an event that naturally arises because it’s logical for the storytelling; it exists purely to titillate.
On the topic of steamy scenes: I feel a bit foolish for this, but it was only after I’d finished reading that I’d noticed (or been reminded) that the book is categorized as YA. Knowing this after the fact, I feel very strongly that Elise and Layla’s steamy scenes are not appropriate for YA. I know that the characters are legal adults—only barely that is—but that doesn’t change the fact that YA is targeted to a high school-aged audience. I’m not claiming that teen readers need to have their eyes shielded from all content having to do with sex or sexual desire!!! I just feel uncomfortable knowing that these scenes, one of which gets rather explicit, are intended for a teen readership. I acknowledge that that might be prudish of me, but as a point of comparison, you’ll never find these kinds of scenes in something like, say, The Hunger Games.
I think another element that contributes to the lack of chemistry, at least by my perception, is the lack of resistance. Elise and Layla run very hot and cold, despising each other one moment and then giving in to their attraction/desire the next. I don’t feel any suspense for their romance because they don’t try to suppress or deny their attraction very much at all before their relationship is confirmed; and those moments of resentment do not count as resistance, because when you feel like you hate someone, there’s nothing to resist.
Also, a lot of their attraction seems to be built on lust rather than emotional connection. There’s a scene where they get handsy literal seconds after Layla is revived from near death. This could’ve been a really touching, emotional moment to show how much they care for one other, but instead, it becomes yet another scene showing off how much they lust after one another.
Furthermore, as much as I love some good old fashioned toxic yuri (within reason), Elise and Layla’s dynamic is troubling. Layla borderline worships Elise; kissing her and drinking her blood are akin to religious or spiritual experiences for Layla. At one point, she goes down on her knees and begs Elise to let her keep drinking from her. Layla, having lost her parents, her only friend (I forgot her name because she never comes up in this book, strangely enough!), and her surrogate mother (Valeriya), has nothing and nobody outside of Elise. Elise at least has Josi to live for, as well as Jamie and Sterling to support her. Elise still loves playing piano and continues to struggle with OCD. In other words, she has an inner world, both good and bad, that’s separate from Layla; I don’t think Layla dances ballet once in the entirety of this sequel. And while her trauma is sometimes touched upon, that trauma is almost completely wrapped up in Elise!
Other Things that Made No Sense
Rapid fire bullet points because this is getting long:
- Sterling telling Elise that she was “becoming dependent on” reaper venom after she'd taken it all of two times
- Elise “smearing” her hand over a bleeding wound and somehow “shoving” said blood into the mouth of the reaper dragging her down into the sea despite the fact that they’re literally underwater
- Elise saying “And who in their right mind would trust a reaper to conduct such experiments?" with her reaper girlfriend sitting right there
-
-
- Elise not knowing that her father’s empire has crumbled and that criminals have stolen his weapons, which would be news-worthy and likely all over the papers
- An entire ship filling with water and sinking mere moments after a singular bullet gets shot through one of the floors (the explanation is that it has “no doubt” gone “ALL THE WAY THROUGH THE SHIP,” but I don’t buy it)
- Elise not loading her gun with more bullets before entering said ship
- Nicoletta being able to monologue, let alone stand upright, after having
- Layla being able to attack Nicoletta with a Saint bullet still lodged in her thigh (or was it a knife wound? Idk but a reaper says Saint weaponry causes wounds that don’t stop bleeding)
- Said wound never getting addressed even after Elise rescues and revives Layla on the beach
- Nicoletta’s existence. Why is she here
-
-
- Karine and Elise standing in an alley having a chat while Layla sits there feet away with a chain of Saint steel LITERALLY MELTING THE FLESH OFF OF HER NECK
-
- The fact that reapers in other parts of the world can’t come into contact with sunlight but NY reapers can (if this was explained I totally missed it)
What I Liked
I know all of this may make me sound like a hater, but I didn’t hate this book! I didn’t like it, but I didn’t hate it either! And there were definitely elements within it that I enjoyed. For one thing, I appreciated the rent party representation! An actual Harlem exclusive (or at least, Harlem originating) trend of the 20s, rather than a generic trend of the era. (I had lamented in my review of book 1 that trends unique to the Harlem Renaissance felt lacking.) I had never heard of these parties before, so I love that I got to learn about something new!
Major spoiler warning (I don't specify what happens at the end, but I give enough information that it might give it away):
Conclusion
How to wrap this up? I definitely think readers of the first book should seek this out if they’re interested to know where the story goes. Dare I say that this sequel is worth reading for the beauty of the ending alone? I do think that the ending is quite effective, though I’d understand if it polarizes readers. I’m so grateful that I got to read this ARC, but admittedly, I’m still sad that it wasn’t what I’d hoped for.
***
Thank you NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire for giving me an ARC in exchange for a review!
I desperately wanted this sequel to be an improvement upon This Ravenous Fate. I wanted to LOVE this book. I’m so disappointed to say that not only was I let down on both counts; I also think this book was perhaps lower in quality than the first.
General Writing
As in the first book, there was quite a bit of on the nose “telling” throughout the narration that I was not a fan of. I don’t think it occurred quite as frequently this time around as in TRF, but I could be misremembering. Contemporary-sounding language, especially when it comes to dialogue (Elise literally says “‘That���s a you problem’” at one point, which does not sound like the speech of a 1920s person), also continues to be an issue originating in the previous book. Yet another issue that carries over from book 1 is the wonky and inconsistent POV. While reading, I felt like the narration constantly went in and out of omniscient and limited third, and there may or may not be head hopping. Third person can be a really difficult perspective to write in that regard, but that’s where an editor is supposed to come in.
Another area where an editor is supposed to come in: awkward prose. I couldn’t believe how many clunky and even straight up run-on sentences I came across, especially towards the end of the book. It’s so strange because when I first started reading, I was convinced that the writing had gotten stronger. And yet, as the novel went on, it was as if the quality devolved. Take the following sentence, for instance:
“She stepped away from Layla as Arendale and her father approached the small cage made of Saint steel that had been containing Sena for the past few hours, all thanks to Nicoletta and her full surrender of the Saint compound because of the reapers’ and Elise’s assistance in freeing them of Sena.”
Like what is this? How was this not addressed during the line edit??
Also, this is more of a nitpick, but the dialogue tags on almost every spoken sentence get distracting. I don’t think any conversation better exemplifies this than the one between Karine and Elise at the Renaissance Ballroom. Every time it switches speakers, there’s either a tag (she murmured, she said) or some action or sentence describing the speaker’s mannerisms (“she shrugged,” “her hand tightened around the vial of venom”), so we are constantly reminded of the speaker even though only two people are talking.
Storytelling
One thing that I found myself struck by was how convenient some of the plot points were.
(I’m not even sure I understand how anything surrounding blood works. Elise’s blood is variously described as being “tainted” or “infected” with Layla’s venom, with Layla’s blood, with Layla’s tainted blood, and with Layla’s tainted venom (which makes the least sense—how can something toxic be tainted?). Which one is it? Whose blood is tainted and by which thing? ALSO, IS IT POISON OR VENOM? Bites are variously said to poison or to infect. I’m fairly certain that “poison” and “venom” are used interchangeably more than once, despite the fact that “poison” is also used to refer to a separate thing that is basically manufactured venom with different effects. The terminology is inconsistent and ill-defined, which is confusing.)
Then there’s the plot twist:
I was also struck by how repetitive the storytelling felt. Not only do the wild goose chases for Josi, Karine, and Sena feel like the same subplot copy pasted with a few details changed between them; the scenes of graphic violence (and there are plenty) also begin to get old. They fail to shock or excite, particularly because nothing can quite top Layla literally stuffing a bloody hand into Nicoletta’s mouth. Also, in a later action sequence, I’m fairly certain that Layla is described as tearing out Nicoletta’s throat twice. The violence gets repetitive even within individual scenes.
Thirdly, something that I couldn’t help noticing was—and I hate to say it—how reminiscent certain scenes and plot points were of the show Arcane. I’m actually shocked that no other reviews have mentioned this yet because the author has made her inspiration from Arcane (namely CaitVi’s relationship) known; not only that, but the similarities, to me, were also not at all subtle. I’m not accusing this author of plagiarism, but I feel compelled to mention this because it significantly impacted my enjoyment of the story.
Lastly, this may be due to personal preference, but I just was not into the war plot at all. I had been under the impression that the story would be more Elise-Josi focused, which, compared to book 1, it is. But compared to what I’d expected, it didn’t quite satisfy.
Characters
I often felt frustrated by characters and the actions they took that, to me, made little sense story-wise. For one, Elise doesn’t do enough penitence for how she backstabbed Layla by killing Valeriya. I don’t care that Valeriya is a villain: at the time Elise killed her, she was still a mother figure and mentor in Layla’s eyes. It’s also frustrating that Sterling is given a hard time by Layla for shooting a gun at Elise; yes, that’s bad, but so is the fact that Elise literally almost murdered him by injecting him with poison that would’ve killed him if he hadn’t been shot with an antidote seconds later. Elise’s betrayals are seemingly all swept under the rug, which makes it feel like the narrative wants us to believe that Elise has done no wrong.
Another character whose behaviors are confusing is Tobias. To me, it makes no sense that he wouldn’t be concerned about the “monster”--Sterling tries to explain that it’s because it’s mostly affecting reapers, but this is after it literally
Romance
Lack of chemistry between Elise and Layla remains a problem following book 1. Once again, I think a lot of this stems from their forced, awkward banter and even more forced, awkward romantic/steamy scenes. Take, for example, the “lap dance” Elise gives Layla on stage in a blood house. As punishment for damaging the premises, the manager tells them to put on a show involving TORTURE, not sexy time. It makes no sense that she lets it go on for so long, especially as the patrons quickly lose interest. This isn’t an event that naturally arises because it’s logical for the storytelling; it exists purely to titillate.
On the topic of steamy scenes: I feel a bit foolish for this, but it was only after I’d finished reading that I’d noticed (or been reminded) that the book is categorized as YA. Knowing this after the fact, I feel very strongly that Elise and Layla’s steamy scenes are not appropriate for YA. I know that the characters are legal adults—only barely that is—but that doesn’t change the fact that YA is targeted to a high school-aged audience. I’m not claiming that teen readers need to have their eyes shielded from all content having to do with sex or sexual desire!!! I just feel uncomfortable knowing that these scenes, one of which gets rather explicit, are intended for a teen readership. I acknowledge that that might be prudish of me, but as a point of comparison, you’ll never find these kinds of scenes in something like, say, The Hunger Games.
I think another element that contributes to the lack of chemistry, at least by my perception, is the lack of resistance. Elise and Layla run very hot and cold, despising each other one moment and then giving in to their attraction/desire the next. I don’t feel any suspense for their romance because they don’t try to suppress or deny their attraction very much at all before their relationship is confirmed; and those moments of resentment do not count as resistance, because when you feel like you hate someone, there’s nothing to resist.
Also, a lot of their attraction seems to be built on lust rather than emotional connection. There’s a scene where they get handsy literal seconds after Layla is revived from near death. This could’ve been a really touching, emotional moment to show how much they care for one other, but instead, it becomes yet another scene showing off how much they lust after one another.
Furthermore, as much as I love some good old fashioned toxic yuri (within reason), Elise and Layla’s dynamic is troubling. Layla borderline worships Elise; kissing her and drinking her blood are akin to religious or spiritual experiences for Layla. At one point, she goes down on her knees and begs Elise to let her keep drinking from her. Layla, having lost her parents, her only friend (I forgot her name because she never comes up in this book, strangely enough!), and her surrogate mother (Valeriya), has nothing and nobody outside of Elise. Elise at least has Josi to live for, as well as Jamie and Sterling to support her. Elise still loves playing piano and continues to struggle with OCD. In other words, she has an inner world, both good and bad, that’s separate from Layla; I don’t think Layla dances ballet once in the entirety of this sequel. And while her trauma is sometimes touched upon, that trauma is almost completely wrapped up in Elise!
Other Things that Made No Sense
Rapid fire bullet points because this is getting long:
- Sterling telling Elise that she was “becoming dependent on” reaper venom after she'd taken it all of two times
- Elise “smearing” her hand over a bleeding wound and somehow “shoving” said blood into the mouth of the reaper dragging her down into the sea despite the fact that they’re literally underwater
- Elise saying “And who in their right mind would trust a reaper to conduct such experiments?" with her reaper girlfriend sitting right there
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- Elise not knowing that her father’s empire has crumbled and that criminals have stolen his weapons, which would be news-worthy and likely all over the papers
- An entire ship filling with water and sinking mere moments after a singular bullet gets shot through one of the floors (the explanation is that it has “no doubt” gone “ALL THE WAY THROUGH THE SHIP,” but I don’t buy it)
- Elise not loading her gun with more bullets before entering said ship
- Nicoletta being able to monologue, let alone stand upright, after having
- Layla being able to attack Nicoletta with a Saint bullet still lodged in her thigh (or was it a knife wound? Idk but a reaper says Saint weaponry causes wounds that don’t stop bleeding)
- Said wound never getting addressed even after Elise rescues and revives Layla on the beach
- Nicoletta’s existence. Why is she here
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- Karine and Elise standing in an alley having a chat while Layla sits there feet away with a chain of Saint steel LITERALLY MELTING THE FLESH OFF OF HER NECK
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- The fact that reapers in other parts of the world can’t come into contact with sunlight but NY reapers can (if this was explained I totally missed it)
What I Liked
I know all of this may make me sound like a hater, but I didn’t hate this book! I didn’t like it, but I didn’t hate it either! And there were definitely elements within it that I enjoyed. For one thing, I appreciated the rent party representation! An actual Harlem exclusive (or at least, Harlem originating) trend of the 20s, rather than a generic trend of the era. (I had lamented in my review of book 1 that trends unique to the Harlem Renaissance felt lacking.) I had never heard of these parties before, so I love that I got to learn about something new!
Major spoiler warning (I don't specify what happens at the end, but I give enough information that it might give it away):
Conclusion
How to wrap this up? I definitely think readers of the first book should seek this out if they’re interested to know where the story goes. Dare I say that this sequel is worth reading for the beauty of the ending alone? I do think that the ending is quite effective, though I’d understand if it polarizes readers. I’m so grateful that I got to read this ARC, but admittedly, I’m still sad that it wasn’t what I’d hoped for.
December 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I adored the first book and was incredibly excited for this one and my goodness, it did not disappoint. It picks up exactly where the first left off, though the pacing is a touch slower.
The stakes are high, the twists are excellent, but at its heart this remains a story about a reaper and her hunter. The true highlight is the development of Laya and Elise’s relationship; their connection carries the narrative beautifully through its heavier moments, and I loved them all the more for it. I also enjoyed the continued exploration of found family, though I would have liked a bit more attention given to Josie’s storyline.
As with the first book, there are several important themes woven throughout, racism, family dynamics, and mental health among them, and I appreciated the thoughtful way each was handled.
This was a brilliant conclusion to the duology, but the ending absolutely broke my heart. I knew there was only ever one direction it could go, yet I still couldn’t put it down. Even when I was crying.
I adored the first book and was incredibly excited for this one and my goodness, it did not disappoint. It picks up exactly where the first left off, though the pacing is a touch slower.
The stakes are high, the twists are excellent, but at its heart this remains a story about a reaper and her hunter. The true highlight is the development of Laya and Elise’s relationship; their connection carries the narrative beautifully through its heavier moments, and I loved them all the more for it. I also enjoyed the continued exploration of found family, though I would have liked a bit more attention given to Josie’s storyline.
As with the first book, there are several important themes woven throughout, racism, family dynamics, and mental health among them, and I appreciated the thoughtful way each was handled.
This was a brilliant conclusion to the duology, but the ending absolutely broke my heart. I knew there was only ever one direction it could go, yet I still couldn’t put it down. Even when I was crying.
September 12, 2025
Elise & Layla have my entire heart, I love them so much 😭
There was so much to love and appreciate about this book! It was very fast paced and had beautiful prose, which I deeply appreciated. There were a few moments that dragged a bit and honestly I couldn’t get into Josi’s storyline, but the vampire lore was written sooooo well I was more than happy to keep reading just to find out what happened next. And that ending?? WHAT WAS THAT. Talk about ripping my heart to shreds, so so good 😭
“They made something monstrous and are now upset that we show our teeth.”
*I received an arc from the publisher in exchange for my honest review*
There was so much to love and appreciate about this book! It was very fast paced and had beautiful prose, which I deeply appreciated. There were a few moments that dragged a bit and honestly I couldn’t get into Josi’s storyline, but the vampire lore was written sooooo well I was more than happy to keep reading just to find out what happened next. And that ending?? WHAT WAS THAT. Talk about ripping my heart to shreds, so so good 😭
“They made something monstrous and are now upset that we show our teeth.”
*I received an arc from the publisher in exchange for my honest review*
November 3, 2025
This audiobook is narrated by Tamika Katon-Donegal. Tamika did a fantastic with the narration. Her narration added texture and excitement to the narrative.
I loved This Ravenous Fate and was excited about this sequel. This was a decent book but it didn't clear the high bar set by the first novel in this series. The beginning of the novel picks up shortly after the end of the first novel. Elise & Layla have a tense relationship and are largely apart. The slower start somewhat slowed the momentum from the first novel. I empathize with the author as sophomore novels are notoriously difficult to navigate. This has clunky elements but they don't ruin the experience of the story.
I enjoyed the world building of this novel immensely. The author employs very descriptive language generously and it helps to feel immersed on this fantasy world. The descriptions of The Cotton Club and other locations are so vivid I feel like I am there. Overall I enjoyed this romp in fantasy setting of Jazz Age nightlife in NYC.
Thank you to author Hayley Dennings, Recorded Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
I loved This Ravenous Fate and was excited about this sequel. This was a decent book but it didn't clear the high bar set by the first novel in this series. The beginning of the novel picks up shortly after the end of the first novel. Elise & Layla have a tense relationship and are largely apart. The slower start somewhat slowed the momentum from the first novel. I empathize with the author as sophomore novels are notoriously difficult to navigate. This has clunky elements but they don't ruin the experience of the story.
I enjoyed the world building of this novel immensely. The author employs very descriptive language generously and it helps to feel immersed on this fantasy world. The descriptions of The Cotton Club and other locations are so vivid I feel like I am there. Overall I enjoyed this romp in fantasy setting of Jazz Age nightlife in NYC.
Thank you to author Hayley Dennings, Recorded Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
November 1, 2025
This was so disappointing, I'm actually bereft! If I listed all the things that irritated me about this book, I would be writing a 5k review and I just don't have time for that. The characters made so many baffling decisions and the plot went in the most random, uninteresting directions. Then the ending... There went the last star. I'm so sad.
October 23, 2025
hey hi hello this book just ruined my life!!! my heart is in tatters and i may never recover from this devastation.
what an outstanding close to this duology, i am blown away in every possible sense. hayley dennings outdid herself with this book!!!!
after the domino chain effects of this ravenous fate, we were left with a lot of questions. what would happen with layla and elise? where is josi? what’s next with the reapers? all of these questions and more were answered in ways that took my breath away. the human-reaper politics of harlem were so interesting and i really enjoyed how the agreements and war built the plot. this is a really excellent commentary on the power of race and wealth in society, and it’s something i think we all need to sit with in the context of modern day life.
my sweet josi was the enigma of this story and her character arc honestly broke me in so many ways. this beautiful little girl was taken from her family and exploited, turned into a weapon to be used by others. she should have been dancing in paris, not leading some of the most horrifying monsters known to man. however, i love that she gets her comeback and ends up playing such a pivotal role in the final showdown.
as for elise and layla, my starcrossed lovers who were challenged by fate… you broke me in every possible way and i love you for it. these two are bold and brave and vulnerable and emotional and strong and powerful. both of them were dealt very tough cards, and yet through the everything they always came back to each other. if ever two people were soulmates, it was layla and elise. the most montague-capulet duo to ever do it. elise really became her own person in this book, doing anything and everything for those she loved regardless of the cost. layla’s leadership shone and she worked for the good of everyone. i will ride for these two forever.
i was really happy we got a lot of sterling and jamie time in this book (yes, sterling got his redemption arc. thank god because he messed up royally in TRF). they played such critical roles in the group dynamic and the progression of gangster-human-reaper dynamics. i have a soft spot in my heart for jamie, that scary man was the ride or die elise and layla needed and he never failed to come through.
the last chapter and epilogue caused me immense pain. i feared the worst and the worst did occur — but in the best way. hayley dennings is a phenom and delivered a story that will leave long-lasting impressions on my heart.
what an outstanding close to this duology, i am blown away in every possible sense. hayley dennings outdid herself with this book!!!!
after the domino chain effects of this ravenous fate, we were left with a lot of questions. what would happen with layla and elise? where is josi? what’s next with the reapers? all of these questions and more were answered in ways that took my breath away. the human-reaper politics of harlem were so interesting and i really enjoyed how the agreements and war built the plot. this is a really excellent commentary on the power of race and wealth in society, and it’s something i think we all need to sit with in the context of modern day life.
my sweet josi was the enigma of this story and her character arc honestly broke me in so many ways. this beautiful little girl was taken from her family and exploited, turned into a weapon to be used by others. she should have been dancing in paris, not leading some of the most horrifying monsters known to man. however, i love that she gets her comeback and ends up playing such a pivotal role in the final showdown.
as for elise and layla, my starcrossed lovers who were challenged by fate… you broke me in every possible way and i love you for it. these two are bold and brave and vulnerable and emotional and strong and powerful. both of them were dealt very tough cards, and yet through the everything they always came back to each other. if ever two people were soulmates, it was layla and elise. the most montague-capulet duo to ever do it. elise really became her own person in this book, doing anything and everything for those she loved regardless of the cost. layla’s leadership shone and she worked for the good of everyone. i will ride for these two forever.
i was really happy we got a lot of sterling and jamie time in this book (yes, sterling got his redemption arc. thank god because he messed up royally in TRF). they played such critical roles in the group dynamic and the progression of gangster-human-reaper dynamics. i have a soft spot in my heart for jamie, that scary man was the ride or die elise and layla needed and he never failed to come through.
the last chapter and epilogue caused me immense pain. i feared the worst and the worst did occur — but in the best way. hayley dennings is a phenom and delivered a story that will leave long-lasting impressions on my heart.
a-ser-publicado
January 15, 2025s/d
November 1, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and RBmedia for providing me with a free audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Much like the previous book, the narrator, Tamika Katon-Donegal, does a great job bringing these characters to life. Her voice for Layla remains my favorite. It's incredibly smooth and pleasing to the ears, especially when she's addressing Elise. Aside from the character acting, the emotional performance during appropriate story beats was well done and kept me engaged. I also appreciated the speed at which she narrated because it allowed me to comfortably listen to the book between 1.5x to 2x speed which was a blessing because I was sadly bored for most of the book.
The problems I had with the previous book seemed to be exacerbated in this one, though somehow the executions had an inverse impact on my reading experience and rating. The first book had a solid setup and build up to what I felt was a rushed series of events in the last 20%. This left me feeling unsatisfied and with an overall impression of a less cohesive narrative. The execution of the last act was ultimately what lessened my rating for the novel.
While this book had a somewhat solid setup like its predecessor, the second act of the story dragged on for me until the last 30% or so when all of the climactic events took place. The final third act, while still contributing to some pacing issues, at least kept me engaged enough to finish.
The sections of the book that I struggled to stay engaged with were between the 35% to 75% markers. This was the main reason for my rating. Now, it is not as if nothing happens in these chapters. It actually has the opposite problem: there's simply too much going on. This book has several side plots that were all vying for attention. All of these side plots and characters do come together by the climax to contribute to the big finale, so I do understand why they all exist, but I felt that some of these side plots/characters could have been cut out/merged together to serve the same narrative purposes. This would have made for a tighter story and given more time to devote to the main characters' development.
Layla and Elise remain the main selling point of the book for good reason. I appreciate the fact that they have to work through personal issues before getting together again but it truly did feel a bit contrived to bring them together in the last book only to almost immediately break them up afterwards. Thankfully, they are not apart for very long, but my point still stands. The setup of the beginning seemed to put the characters back in similar positions simply to retrace the patterns of the previous book. I just wanted Elise and Layla to sit down and have difficult conversations about themselves and their relationship which they do, mind you, but these good moments happen deep into the book and have to share space with the plots of trying to find Josi, figuring out what is behind the new deaths in the neighborhood, what this new drug is that's been introduced, Layla dealing with fissures in loyalty with her clan, introducing new gangsters, etc. There's just... a lot.
As a result, the main plot feels underbaked, including the further development of Elise and Layla's relationship.
Maybe it's because I was only listening to the audiobook, but I still do not totally understand the science behind the reaper venom effects or the mechanics behind what was going on with Josi (without getting into spoiler territory), but those things are fairly small potatoes compared to the overall issues I had with the execution of the narrative.
Overall, the audiobook was very well acted and did a lot of heavy lifting to elevate my reading experience. The actual story unfortunately really struggled to juggle the side plots, and the execution issues of the previous book's final act remain in this one as well. The tradeoff is that this book's finale is the most engaging part of it overall and Elise and Layla's relationship, while it does get strangled a bit between one too many side plots and extra characters, is still the best aspect of the story.
Much like the previous book, the narrator, Tamika Katon-Donegal, does a great job bringing these characters to life. Her voice for Layla remains my favorite. It's incredibly smooth and pleasing to the ears, especially when she's addressing Elise. Aside from the character acting, the emotional performance during appropriate story beats was well done and kept me engaged. I also appreciated the speed at which she narrated because it allowed me to comfortably listen to the book between 1.5x to 2x speed which was a blessing because I was sadly bored for most of the book.
The problems I had with the previous book seemed to be exacerbated in this one, though somehow the executions had an inverse impact on my reading experience and rating. The first book had a solid setup and build up to what I felt was a rushed series of events in the last 20%. This left me feeling unsatisfied and with an overall impression of a less cohesive narrative. The execution of the last act was ultimately what lessened my rating for the novel.
While this book had a somewhat solid setup like its predecessor, the second act of the story dragged on for me until the last 30% or so when all of the climactic events took place. The final third act, while still contributing to some pacing issues, at least kept me engaged enough to finish.
The sections of the book that I struggled to stay engaged with were between the 35% to 75% markers. This was the main reason for my rating. Now, it is not as if nothing happens in these chapters. It actually has the opposite problem: there's simply too much going on. This book has several side plots that were all vying for attention. All of these side plots and characters do come together by the climax to contribute to the big finale, so I do understand why they all exist, but I felt that some of these side plots/characters could have been cut out/merged together to serve the same narrative purposes. This would have made for a tighter story and given more time to devote to the main characters' development.
Layla and Elise remain the main selling point of the book for good reason. I appreciate the fact that they have to work through personal issues before getting together again but it truly did feel a bit contrived to bring them together in the last book only to almost immediately break them up afterwards. Thankfully, they are not apart for very long, but my point still stands. The setup of the beginning seemed to put the characters back in similar positions simply to retrace the patterns of the previous book. I just wanted Elise and Layla to sit down and have difficult conversations about themselves and their relationship which they do, mind you, but these good moments happen deep into the book and have to share space with the plots of trying to find Josi, figuring out what is behind the new deaths in the neighborhood, what this new drug is that's been introduced, Layla dealing with fissures in loyalty with her clan, introducing new gangsters, etc. There's just... a lot.
As a result, the main plot feels underbaked, including the further development of Elise and Layla's relationship.
Maybe it's because I was only listening to the audiobook, but I still do not totally understand the science behind the reaper venom effects or the mechanics behind what was going on with Josi (without getting into spoiler territory), but those things are fairly small potatoes compared to the overall issues I had with the execution of the narrative.
Overall, the audiobook was very well acted and did a lot of heavy lifting to elevate my reading experience. The actual story unfortunately really struggled to juggle the side plots, and the execution issues of the previous book's final act remain in this one as well. The tradeoff is that this book's finale is the most engaging part of it overall and Elise and Layla's relationship, while it does get strangled a bit between one too many side plots and extra characters, is still the best aspect of the story.
November 11, 2025
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I will say that I do feel like the first book was better in terms of flow. There were times throughout OVD that I felt like were slow or repetitive. There is a lot that is going on in this sequel. It kept things interesting, but I also found myself having to re reread things to understand fully what was going on. I love the world that Hayley has created in 1920's Harlem. It is a unique and different take on vampirism that is refreshing. I enjoyed seeing more of Jamie and his “son” in this novel. There is a messed up “found family” dynamic between Layla, Elise, Jamie, and others(trying to be spoiler free). While they all get on each others’ nerves, it’s evident that they are family.
While Our Vicious Descent is YA, I ended up double checking that it was due to the nature of the book. There is more blood and gore in this book than the first. There is one scene that isn't necessarily a sex scene but I found myself wondering if maybe it should be labeled more of a New Adult novel and not a YA.
I wrote the above before I finished the book. I am so mad. First off, this book could’ve been easily 100 pages shorter. Second off, what thef*ck was that ending?? I can see that ending being meaningful if it happened differently. But here’s the gag!!!! IT DIDN'T HAVE TO END THAT WAY, ARE YOU KIDDING ME RIGHT NOW I at first was like oh okay, yeah, that’s romantic and that’s how they wanted it, both of them. But then the more I think about it, the more it didn’t need to be done. Why take the cure? Elise saw you, you didn’t have to be human again!! If you hadn’t taken the cure, you would’ve healed and still be here. And Elise wouldn’t have needed to die with you because she always wanted to be the one that went first. And then the cherry on top? Karine isn’t even effing dead. So you both died for what? For what?!? I’m so mad. I’m sitting here crying because you really gave me that ending when I stuck through the repetitiveness of the story? You really gave me that ending when it’s not even necessary, I could’ve gotten past the slow plot, but no, the ending took it from a 3,5 to a 3. I’m so mad.
While Our Vicious Descent is YA, I ended up double checking that it was due to the nature of the book. There is more blood and gore in this book than the first. There is one scene that isn't necessarily a sex scene but I found myself wondering if maybe it should be labeled more of a New Adult novel and not a YA.
I wrote the above before I finished the book. I am so mad. First off, this book could’ve been easily 100 pages shorter. Second off, what thef*ck was that ending?? I can see that ending being meaningful if it happened differently. But here’s the gag!!!! IT DIDN'T HAVE TO END THAT WAY, ARE YOU KIDDING ME RIGHT NOW I at first was like oh okay, yeah, that’s romantic and that’s how they wanted it, both of them. But then the more I think about it, the more it didn’t need to be done. Why take the cure? Elise saw you, you didn’t have to be human again!! If you hadn’t taken the cure, you would’ve healed and still be here. And Elise wouldn’t have needed to die with you because she always wanted to be the one that went first. And then the cherry on top? Karine isn’t even effing dead. So you both died for what? For what?!? I’m so mad. I’m sitting here crying because you really gave me that ending when I stuck through the repetitiveness of the story? You really gave me that ending when it’s not even necessary, I could’ve gotten past the slow plot, but no, the ending took it from a 3,5 to a 3. I’m so mad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2025
i really enjoyed the first book and thought there was a lot of potential for the author to grow, but looking back i think this would’ve made a lovely standalone.
i couldn’t remember…anything…from the first book, which is my fault sure, but i do also think a good sequel can subtly jog your memory without being repetitive. our vicious descent was very repetitive and honestly just boring. this sounds harsh, but i did not care about her missing sister! it felt like the build up of the previous novel was wasted on this storyline that i didn’t feel was particularly interesting nor did i feel attached to it. the ending felt really rushed, the bulk of the story is contained to last quarter of the novel. this could’ve used 100 less pages. i’m not sure how i feel about that ending, but it was a risk and not one that i see taken much these days, so credit where credits due!!!
as i felt with this ravenous fate, the love story was the true star of the show. i’m at least glad i got to know how their story ended :’) hayley dennings is a talented writer for sure and i look forward to her next endeavor!
2.5 stars
thank you netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review
i couldn’t remember…anything…from the first book, which is my fault sure, but i do also think a good sequel can subtly jog your memory without being repetitive. our vicious descent was very repetitive and honestly just boring. this sounds harsh, but i did not care about her missing sister! it felt like the build up of the previous novel was wasted on this storyline that i didn’t feel was particularly interesting nor did i feel attached to it. the ending felt really rushed, the bulk of the story is contained to last quarter of the novel. this could’ve used 100 less pages. i’m not sure how i feel about that ending, but it was a risk and not one that i see taken much these days, so credit where credits due!!!
as i felt with this ravenous fate, the love story was the true star of the show. i’m at least glad i got to know how their story ended :’) hayley dennings is a talented writer for sure and i look forward to her next endeavor!
2.5 stars
thank you netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Currently reading
December 10, 2025pre-read/listen:
i've read the first book last month. and it's entertaining. and i cannot wait to finish another series this year (since it's a duology) 😌
this ravenous fate - ☆☆☆.25
our vicious descent - to be read
thank you to netgalley, sourcebooks, and rbmedia for providing me with an arc and alc of this book in exchange for an honest review
i've read the first book last month. and it's entertaining. and i cannot wait to finish another series this year (since it's a duology) 😌
this ravenous fate - ☆☆☆.25
our vicious descent - to be read
thank you to netgalley, sourcebooks, and rbmedia for providing me with an arc and alc of this book in exchange for an honest review
October 24, 2025
3.5⭐️
I think this book was too long and had a lot of repetitive moments. There were some good parts but also felt like there were some unanswered questions. I did like the ending.
I think this book was too long and had a lot of repetitive moments. There were some good parts but also felt like there were some unanswered questions. I did like the ending.
November 5, 2025
"Love, I have found, does not just vanish. Even if it is overtaken by hate, love still exists. And even in death when you lose someone, the love you have for them does not leave you."
Review to come!
Review to come!
November 9, 2025
2025 reads: 308/300
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley. i am leaving this review voluntarily.
in this sequel to this ravenous fate, elise saint and layla quinn have become estranged. even with the saint family empire in decline and a dangerous reaper-venom drug on the streets, elise’s primary focus is on her missing little sister, josi. meanwhile, layla is contending with shifting alliances in the new york underworld. when a terrifying beast starts hunting reapers and humans alike, elise and layla once again join forces.
i loved this ravenous fate when i read it last year and have been highly anticipating this sequel ever since! i thought this was a great sequel. it tied up loose ends from book one well and added in its own, new plotlines. i thought the plotline with josi’s disappearance was interesting, and that one had some twists i wasn’t expecting. of course, i also loved how the concepts of racism and power were explored through the backdrop of harlem renaissance vampires. i’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed the first one!
i received a digital review copy from the publisher via netgalley. i am leaving this review voluntarily.
in this sequel to this ravenous fate, elise saint and layla quinn have become estranged. even with the saint family empire in decline and a dangerous reaper-venom drug on the streets, elise’s primary focus is on her missing little sister, josi. meanwhile, layla is contending with shifting alliances in the new york underworld. when a terrifying beast starts hunting reapers and humans alike, elise and layla once again join forces.
i loved this ravenous fate when i read it last year and have been highly anticipating this sequel ever since! i thought this was a great sequel. it tied up loose ends from book one well and added in its own, new plotlines. i thought the plotline with josi’s disappearance was interesting, and that one had some twists i wasn’t expecting. of course, i also loved how the concepts of racism and power were explored through the backdrop of harlem renaissance vampires. i’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoyed the first one!
May 21, 2025
So excited!
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August 18, 2025Thank you to Netgalley. I'm excited to dive into this soon.
December 30, 2025
Way to break my heart. I won’t spoil it but the ending of that book made me want to yell at my kindle
October 21, 2025
I was lucky to read This Ravenous Fate right before Our Vicious Decent, so everything was fresh in my mind.
I loved OVD just as much as TRF.
We get more time with Elise and Layla, bother separately, and together. I loved their relationship even though it was strained at times. I loved how strong Layla was and that she would do anything to help the people she cared about. I was very excited for Elise's character growth. She was so much more brave than she gave herself credit for.
I also enjoyed all the side characters we got to know throughout both stories. Hayley gave them a lot without them taking over the main characters.
Telling a story about vampires is one thing, but telling a story about Black vampires and humans in the 1920s is a whole other thing. Hayley did an amazing job weaving the characters' identities throughout the story, and it felt very authentic.
This is a story about more than vampires and humans and their relationships with one another. It's a story about love, loss, and grief. About family, blood (in more ways than one), and bonds. It's so beautifully written that I couldn't put it down.
I loved OVD just as much as TRF.
We get more time with Elise and Layla, bother separately, and together. I loved their relationship even though it was strained at times. I loved how strong Layla was and that she would do anything to help the people she cared about. I was very excited for Elise's character growth. She was so much more brave than she gave herself credit for.
I also enjoyed all the side characters we got to know throughout both stories. Hayley gave them a lot without them taking over the main characters.
Telling a story about vampires is one thing, but telling a story about Black vampires and humans in the 1920s is a whole other thing. Hayley did an amazing job weaving the characters' identities throughout the story, and it felt very authentic.
This is a story about more than vampires and humans and their relationships with one another. It's a story about love, loss, and grief. About family, blood (in more ways than one), and bonds. It's so beautifully written that I couldn't put it down.
July 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Ms. Dennings, for letting me read this early. Our Vicious Descent was a great conclusion to the duology. It follows Layla and Elise trying to hunt down a greater eviler that threatens to bring ruin to their city, Harlem. It is an emotional rollercoaster and I promise the ending will have you crying. However, I think there is more story to be told. I loved this book so much, and I am happy I got to read the conclusion early. I fear Ms. Dennings ate down with this one. From the representation of how art heals, black culture, OCD, anxiety, and overthinking… it makes the reader feel seen. It made me feel seen. The biggest message I took is: How far will you go for love? What will you sacrifice?
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