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The Dread King
Release date coming soon, little vipers!
Unknown Binding
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About the author
Lauren Cate Leake
4 books325 followersHi! Thank you so much for reading! It means the world to me to have gotten Maeve’s story into your hands. As a debut indie author I would love to connect with you. Feel free to message me personally to discuss The Dread Descendant. The entire reason I published was to be able to discuss this story with others!
Xoxo LC
TikTok @thedreaddescendant
Instagram @writer_lc
Xoxo LC
TikTok @thedreaddescendant
Instagram @writer_lc
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
November 3, 2025
If the series had to end, then at least it ended the way it did. Each book has been intoxicating to read from start to finish, and TDK was no exception. I gasped, I cried, I wanted to throw the book & rage at LC. I did, actually rage (affectionate) at LC. But I also laughed and swooned. And I wouldn’t change a thing about this book. After I’ve thoroughly processed the absolute rollercoaster of emotions LC put me through, I am excited to read the series in its entirety again so I can find all the easter eggs hidden throughout. LC isn’t afraid to explore complex emotions, characters, and concepts, and she navigates the trauma of loss especially well. The twists will leave you breathless or laughing maniacally. Or both. This book is so good, y’all. Definitely check out the TW for your mental health, as that always comes first, as this is definitely Dark Romantasy. But if you’re cool with all that, TDK is one you’re not gonna want to miss and one you won’t be able to put down.
November 4, 2025
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of TDK; and this is my honest review:
If you have not, I highly recommend that you go read the first two books of the Dread Series because this finale to the trilogy was…. Chef’s kiss 🤌🏼
When I first came across this series, it immediately intrigued me because of the cover art. I thought it was absolutely gorgeous, so naturally I added books 1 & 2 to my Amazon wishlist. Then I started seeing LC’s reels… ‘a dark romance inspired by Slytherin and Anakin vibes’, YES BABE SIGN ME UP! 👀 I finally ordered them and binged them upon arrival. Regrettably, I hadn’t started doing reviews yet, so that is why we have an absence of TDD and TDP on my IG page (@whimsigothbooknook). But to complete this review I am paying an homage to them as well. 😉 I also highly recommend that you take a look at Lauren Cate’s IG page to get additional info on each book/ brief synopsis’s, art, and a good feeler for the vibes/ journey you will embark on.
Now, onto The Dread King.
I had to allow myself some time to process the ending of The Dread King before writing this review because I was just left with my head spinning.😅 I could probably write a whole book myself on the thoughts that I have been left reeling over. 🤣
This book (the entire series actually) had my emotions all over the place. I was so stressed out going into this one because I honestly had no idea where this storyline could possibly go. I knew this was the ending to the entire journey… and I wasn’t prepared. I. Wasn’t. Prepared. What a freaking finale?! LC has packed these pages with a riveting conclusion.
You are truly not prepared for the plot twists/ reveals that come to light in this book alone. Much less the entirety of the trilogy. The storyline was beautifully composed especially once you realize the absolute MAGNITUDE of what has occurred and led up to this final book. The dedication and sacrifices of each of the main characters throughout their individual stories is heavy and LC made sure to evoke the weight of it all in her readers. You will fall madly in love with some of the characters and be absolutely disgusted by others; you may even be surprised when those feelings flip flop a time or two. I laughed, sobbed, and raged while reading this. Every one of their backgrounds and the story-building behind it really just amazed me. LC poured so much thought into the intricacy of this story that ties Maeve, Malachite, and Reeve. Not to mention all of the additional characters that she has tied in along the way; family, friends, and yes, even the enemies. I’m truly blown away and so, so thankful to have been on this Street Team.
The end of the series both destroyed, and completed me. Very well done, very well done indeed.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: 🐍🐍🐍🐍🐍
Plot:🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️
Spice: ❤️🔥- yearning/ teasing more than actual open door scenes
If you have not, I highly recommend that you go read the first two books of the Dread Series because this finale to the trilogy was…. Chef’s kiss 🤌🏼
When I first came across this series, it immediately intrigued me because of the cover art. I thought it was absolutely gorgeous, so naturally I added books 1 & 2 to my Amazon wishlist. Then I started seeing LC’s reels… ‘a dark romance inspired by Slytherin and Anakin vibes’, YES BABE SIGN ME UP! 👀 I finally ordered them and binged them upon arrival. Regrettably, I hadn’t started doing reviews yet, so that is why we have an absence of TDD and TDP on my IG page (@whimsigothbooknook). But to complete this review I am paying an homage to them as well. 😉 I also highly recommend that you take a look at Lauren Cate’s IG page to get additional info on each book/ brief synopsis’s, art, and a good feeler for the vibes/ journey you will embark on.
Now, onto The Dread King.
I had to allow myself some time to process the ending of The Dread King before writing this review because I was just left with my head spinning.😅 I could probably write a whole book myself on the thoughts that I have been left reeling over. 🤣
This book (the entire series actually) had my emotions all over the place. I was so stressed out going into this one because I honestly had no idea where this storyline could possibly go. I knew this was the ending to the entire journey… and I wasn’t prepared. I. Wasn’t. Prepared. What a freaking finale?! LC has packed these pages with a riveting conclusion.
You are truly not prepared for the plot twists/ reveals that come to light in this book alone. Much less the entirety of the trilogy. The storyline was beautifully composed especially once you realize the absolute MAGNITUDE of what has occurred and led up to this final book. The dedication and sacrifices of each of the main characters throughout their individual stories is heavy and LC made sure to evoke the weight of it all in her readers. You will fall madly in love with some of the characters and be absolutely disgusted by others; you may even be surprised when those feelings flip flop a time or two. I laughed, sobbed, and raged while reading this. Every one of their backgrounds and the story-building behind it really just amazed me. LC poured so much thought into the intricacy of this story that ties Maeve, Malachite, and Reeve. Not to mention all of the additional characters that she has tied in along the way; family, friends, and yes, even the enemies. I’m truly blown away and so, so thankful to have been on this Street Team.
The end of the series both destroyed, and completed me. Very well done, very well done indeed.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: 🐍🐍🐍🐍🐍
Plot:🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️🗡️
Spice: ❤️🔥- yearning/ teasing more than actual open door scenes
November 4, 2025
I am unwell. This was beautiful, perfection and literally EVERYTHING.
November 4, 2025
I am unwell. I just turned the last page of The Dread King and am now sitting here trying to write a review with a lump in my throat and watery eyes.
To understand this plot is to accept that you never fully understood it all. Every detail is beautifully and painfully unraveled and I was left reeling as each revelation clicked into place.
Maeve is so complex, with abilities that surpass even her own expectations. Her journey is a paradox that had me feeling hollow yet satisfied. Seeing the cost of her choices was often heartbreaking but I love where she ended up.
Mal, oh Mal. What a tortured soul. Maeve's match in complexity and questionable morality. His depravity is not wholly his fault, yet you find yourself conflicted on what actions were a result of his own possessive love or need for control and which were beyond his control.
And then there's Reeve. So many questions from books 1 & 2 answered. In a world of cold, he is warm. He is steadfast amongst the chaos.
I WISH for and I NEED more. Lauren delivered a heart wrenching, beautiful end to this trilogy but I fear I can't accept it's over. This is without a doubt a top tier trilogy for me. It scratches so many different itches and since reading The Dread Descendant a year ago I haven't been able to get it out of my head.
To understand this plot is to accept that you never fully understood it all. Every detail is beautifully and painfully unraveled and I was left reeling as each revelation clicked into place.
Maeve is so complex, with abilities that surpass even her own expectations. Her journey is a paradox that had me feeling hollow yet satisfied. Seeing the cost of her choices was often heartbreaking but I love where she ended up.
Mal, oh Mal. What a tortured soul. Maeve's match in complexity and questionable morality. His depravity is not wholly his fault, yet you find yourself conflicted on what actions were a result of his own possessive love or need for control and which were beyond his control.
And then there's Reeve. So many questions from books 1 & 2 answered. In a world of cold, he is warm. He is steadfast amongst the chaos.
I WISH for and I NEED more. Lauren delivered a heart wrenching, beautiful end to this trilogy but I fear I can't accept it's over. This is without a doubt a top tier trilogy for me. It scratches so many different itches and since reading The Dread Descendant a year ago I haven't been able to get it out of my head.
November 20, 2025
The first book was my favorite book of the year, I fell hard for mal and maeve. I adored them. In book two i felt the story going this direction and was hoping Lauren was gonna plot twist us and change it around. Because how couldn't maeve and mal end up together???? Lauren sold this book as "if you loved anakin" created a character in his image, only to destroy his character to drive another romantic plot. I feel betrayed on behalf of mals character and conned out of the love story she advertised. Just horribly disappointed in this series.
November 9, 2025
Anxiety inducing, wild ride.
I know little of you, and yet I know that you are mine.”
“If you can read me so easily, then why don’t you just answer it?” “Because someone’s got to teach you how to communicate with words.”
“One day you will understand,” said Reeve. “Her loyalty isn’t to be feared. It’s her greatest strength.”
I know little of you, and yet I know that you are mine.”
“If you can read me so easily, then why don’t you just answer it?” “Because someone’s got to teach you how to communicate with words.”
“One day you will understand,” said Reeve. “Her loyalty isn’t to be feared. It’s her greatest strength.”
November 10, 2025
Woof. This final installment of the Dread Series is for the Maeve girlies. For the ones that love with their whole beings and will sacrifice everything to help the ones they love. So many things were unraveled in this book to the point that I was wondering if anything we were told in the last two books actually happened. The plot twists, the battles, the love, the sadness, Maeve Sinclair will do whatever it takes. I do like that we got to see the softness of Maeve in the middle of the book before her badassary came back into play. Although the series is over, the story was wrapped up nicely in the end but I fear Malachite Peur, Maeve Sinclair, and the High Lord of Aterna Reeve, will forever be stamped on my heart.
May 16, 2025
THE WAY I GASPED
IM NOT OKKKK💖😍😍💖💖
IM NOT OKKKK💖😍😍💖💖
November 10, 2025
I can't put into words how I feel at this moment, typing this. This series has been a very prominent read for me and my friend this year, and this being the ending hurts more than I can say. It was beautiful. It was intense, and there were several twists that came out of nowhere. It was HEARTBREAKING. Absolutely ripped me apart in the best and worst ways. Unforgettable. I truly cherish these characters and this story, and now that it's over I know I'll never forget how these books made me feel. Thank you Lauren, truly, for creating this magical world that had me from page one.
November 20, 2025
I am UNWELL RIGHT NOW.
HOW DARE SHE DO THIS TO MAL 😭😭 my heart is torn…. This whole book was so good and the plot was so good but I just can’t agree with the direction the story went in. I am heartbroken FOR REAL THIS TIME GUYS!
I was so hooked on this whole trilogy and I’m devasted it is over :( but again I can’t believe she done this to Mal and I will not read another book without him
HOW DARE SHE DO THIS TO MAL 😭😭 my heart is torn…. This whole book was so good and the plot was so good but I just can’t agree with the direction the story went in. I am heartbroken FOR REAL THIS TIME GUYS!
I was so hooked on this whole trilogy and I’m devasted it is over :( but again I can’t believe she done this to Mal and I will not read another book without him
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 11, 2025
I just would like to lay on the floor and reflect on this book for a week. It was…. Gosh, wow. So good.
November 10, 2025
Lauren has done it again 😭
I loved every second of this book, just like the other two, this was a beautiful way to end the series and all I have to say is be ready guys…. And have your tissues 🤧
I loved every second of this book, just like the other two, this was a beautiful way to end the series and all I have to say is be ready guys…. And have your tissues 🤧
November 22, 2025
I don't even know what to say in this review without spoiling the whole book. I guess I'll just say, I did not really see the ending coming at all, and I am currently sobbing at 2 am as I finished it. The ending is so bittersweet that I honestly don't know how to feel. I'm going to try to talk about things objectively or generally so I don't have to mark my whole review as a spoiler, but I'm sorry if anyone gets spoiled or figures it out, I guess I'll give a warning anyway.
If I told myself who read the first book in November of last year that this series was going to end this way, I would have laughed in my own face. I couldn't have even guessed a year ago that this is how things would end up. Some parts of the end I'm really pissed about, even though I can see why they happened or had to happen, but I'm still distraught about it. But I'm also happy that there is peace. Like I said I really have bittersweet feelings about this. I'm still giving the book five stars even though it was probably my least favorite of the three books (probably because it caused me the most emotional distress lol). But that's the thing, this book and this series in general made me feel something, when I'm feeling the emotions with the characters and am so emotionally invested that I can't stop thinking about a book or series for weeks after I read it, that's how I know the author did a good job.
This series as a whole has blown me away, and I've messaged with the author Lauren on Instagram a couple of times before and she is such a sweet person 💚, I will definitely read whatever she choses to release next. I would highly recommend this series, just when you are reading the third one, have a box of tissues near you, because if you get as emotionally invested as I did, you will need them, and there will always be a place for Maeve and Mal in my heart.
If I told myself who read the first book in November of last year that this series was going to end this way, I would have laughed in my own face. I couldn't have even guessed a year ago that this is how things would end up. Some parts of the end I'm really pissed about, even though I can see why they happened or had to happen, but I'm still distraught about it. But I'm also happy that there is peace. Like I said I really have bittersweet feelings about this. I'm still giving the book five stars even though it was probably my least favorite of the three books (probably because it caused me the most emotional distress lol). But that's the thing, this book and this series in general made me feel something, when I'm feeling the emotions with the characters and am so emotionally invested that I can't stop thinking about a book or series for weeks after I read it, that's how I know the author did a good job.
This series as a whole has blown me away, and I've messaged with the author Lauren on Instagram a couple of times before and she is such a sweet person 💚, I will definitely read whatever she choses to release next. I would highly recommend this series, just when you are reading the third one, have a box of tissues near you, because if you get as emotionally invested as I did, you will need them, and there will always be a place for Maeve and Mal in my heart.
November 14, 2025
5/5 stars. I wasn’t able to read the first two books beforehand but I do have the physical copies and will be going back to read the entire series. This book had me ugly crying by the end of it.
It’s a very well-written story and I loved seeing glimpses of the past which helped me make sense of what was going on. I feel for Maeve, but she is such as badass. I really don’t know what else to say other than this is a must read.
Spice is low 1/5 but I read it because of the romance and plot. The love that Mal and Reeve have for Maeve is something I am not going to be able to get over for a while.
Would highly recommend to readers who enjoy low spice fantasy books. Also recommend to those who like love triangle vibes, badass FMCs, magic, and men who will do anything to the woman they love even if the result isn’t what they want.
Thank you Lauren for approving me to be a part of your ARC team. I am so glad I found your book on TikTok & IG!
It’s a very well-written story and I loved seeing glimpses of the past which helped me make sense of what was going on. I feel for Maeve, but she is such as badass. I really don’t know what else to say other than this is a must read.
Spice is low 1/5 but I read it because of the romance and plot. The love that Mal and Reeve have for Maeve is something I am not going to be able to get over for a while.
Would highly recommend to readers who enjoy low spice fantasy books. Also recommend to those who like love triangle vibes, badass FMCs, magic, and men who will do anything to the woman they love even if the result isn’t what they want.
Thank you Lauren for approving me to be a part of your ARC team. I am so glad I found your book on TikTok & IG!
November 28, 2025
Wow, what a plot. The storyline and twists in this book were so unique and well executed. I truly had no idea how it would all end. My emotions were running high from start to finish.
This finale ended up being my favorite of the trilogy, and the series as a whole was incredibly well done. I especially loved the FMC’s growth; seeing her journey from her younger years to who she becomes was a highlight for me.
I did struggle a bit to situate myself in the first few chapters, so I’d definitely recommend rereading the second book (or at least its final chapters) to get your bearings. And Maeve’s stubbornness had me grunting out loud at times, but it fit her character perfectly. I wouldn’t change it.
A well-deserved 5 stars.
Thanks for the ride, LCL.
This finale ended up being my favorite of the trilogy, and the series as a whole was incredibly well done. I especially loved the FMC’s growth; seeing her journey from her younger years to who she becomes was a highlight for me.
I did struggle a bit to situate myself in the first few chapters, so I’d definitely recommend rereading the second book (or at least its final chapters) to get your bearings. And Maeve’s stubbornness had me grunting out loud at times, but it fit her character perfectly. I wouldn’t change it.
A well-deserved 5 stars.
Thanks for the ride, LCL.
November 15, 2025
Where do I even begin? This book ruined me. I always knew it would. The series is absolutely like no other. You could never find characters like these anywhere else. The way Lauren Cate writes is absolutely beautiful. This is a world I will gladly stay in. The twists and turns of the series and this book alone has toyed with my heart in a way no other has. I highly highly recommend this book to any and all.
November 16, 2025
Oh this book killed me!
I received this book as an ARC, it gets 5 ⭐️.
I waited for this book for what felt like forever and now that it’s over I am sad…I wish I could read this all over again and experience it the same way.
This book instantly grabbed your attention and sucked you in.
Maeve, Mal and Reeve are such powerful characters. Maeve’s growth and change throughout the series was amazing, she was willing to do whatever it took for those she loves. The complexity of Maeve’s magic was very well written. Mal was a storm of complexity that made my head spin….he was always walking that fine line. Reeve…I have loved him since the beginning, he was always there for Maeve whether she wanted him or not. When Reeve was finally able to break free and let Maeve know the truth of their bond…I was in tears!
This trilogy was perfect and I am satisfied with the ending. I am so thankful to have been allowed to read this as an ARC and be on the street team.
Read this if you love -
*Dark Romance Fantasy
*Morally Grey Characters
*War and Redemption
I received this book as an ARC, it gets 5 ⭐️.
I waited for this book for what felt like forever and now that it’s over I am sad…I wish I could read this all over again and experience it the same way.
This book instantly grabbed your attention and sucked you in.
Maeve, Mal and Reeve are such powerful characters. Maeve’s growth and change throughout the series was amazing, she was willing to do whatever it took for those she loves. The complexity of Maeve’s magic was very well written. Mal was a storm of complexity that made my head spin….he was always walking that fine line. Reeve…I have loved him since the beginning, he was always there for Maeve whether she wanted him or not. When Reeve was finally able to break free and let Maeve know the truth of their bond…I was in tears!
This trilogy was perfect and I am satisfied with the ending. I am so thankful to have been allowed to read this as an ARC and be on the street team.
Read this if you love -
*Dark Romance Fantasy
*Morally Grey Characters
*War and Redemption
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2025
I’m so grateful to have received the ARC for TDK! This series is so close to my heart. The Dread Prince was my first ever ARC that I requested, and The Dread Descendant was the first indie book I ever picked up, so from that moment on this entire world has taken over my head and my heart. It’s so encapsulating and it makes me feel like I’m stepping into another realm, almost in the same way Harry Potter did when I was younger. Lauren’s writing has so many layers, and the emotion she puts into her stories transfers me straight into the world of her books every time I read them.
I got about a quarter of the way through The Dread King on my kindle and made myself stop because I wanted to end this series the same way I started it, with a physical copy in my hands. I don’t know why I’m this emotional about leaving the world she built, but I attached to it so easily and it truly felt like home.
I’m going to her signing for The Dread King tomorrow, and once I finally have the book in my hands to finish it, I’ll update this review.
I got about a quarter of the way through The Dread King on my kindle and made myself stop because I wanted to end this series the same way I started it, with a physical copy in my hands. I don’t know why I’m this emotional about leaving the world she built, but I attached to it so easily and it truly felt like home.
I’m going to her signing for The Dread King tomorrow, and once I finally have the book in my hands to finish it, I’ll update this review.
December 3, 2025
SOBBING
I don’t think I’ve ever written a review for a book but this series shook me to my core. I felt all of it. I just finished and I cannot stop crying!! I will definitely carry this story with me “forever and always”. 💗 thank you Miss Lauren!
I don’t think I’ve ever written a review for a book but this series shook me to my core. I felt all of it. I just finished and I cannot stop crying!! I will definitely carry this story with me “forever and always”. 💗 thank you Miss Lauren!
November 28, 2025
All I’m saying is I have no idea how to feel. I need 3-5 business days and a Reeve prequel
November 14, 2025
A well rounded end to the series that has made me friends and opened opportunities. Big thanks to the author for letting me be an ARC reader.
November 16, 2025
I didn't like the direction it went in and felt misled by the first 2 books. I am a reader who likes when there is one love interest and it does not switch in the last book. That's just my personal opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2025
OH MY GOD WE HAVE A TITLE
If this ain’t another five star read then too bad yes it is.
If this ain’t another five star read then too bad yes it is.
September 15, 2025
Oh my goddd! I can't wait!
November 24, 2025
He nearly smiled as he said. “I have no doubt you’ll be the last one standing.”
These books never fail to do it for me.
PSA, I’ll definitely have some spoilers below; read with caution even though I’ll aim to make things vague.
I genuinely felt like I was in a toxic relationship while reading this because I was literally accepting scraps from Mal at the beginning here.
Coming off of tDP, I was team Reeve, mostly because continuing to back Mal was getting hard when he was genuinely appalling at times. But, I will say, Lauren had me confused at the start of this. I was like, wait, maybe he can be saved; maybe this can end with him. And then, when Reeve comes in, it’s like my entire reality shatters. As though I was unknowingly living in the dark, and then a window was smashed, revealing that there was light in the world the entire time and I’d merely grown accustomed to surviving off the scant glow of the moon.
All at once, I understood what Maeve was truly missing. Someone wholly devoted to her. Like the freaking earl grey tea thing? Come on. Mal just didn’t have that in him. He was cold, dark possession—mad with an infatuation for her power and loyalty to him. And we loooove a moody, I-love-nobody-and-nothing-but-her, kind of MC at times, but at a point I needed my girl to get a BREAK from the pain and insanity of loving someone lost to the darkness. But then I saw him trying to reach her and I was withering at the despair of it all.
Now don’t get me wrong. I sobbed like a million times reading this. I love Mal. I love all his twisted, horrific, irredeemable glory. But there was a point where I felt that if he did make it out in the end, he would not want to live with the fallout of what he went through. I was heartbroken for him. And a part of me genuinely died in the final chapters.
I am truly impressed with the way this was written. The layers and complexity, the way I could never trust my instinct and never trust Maeve’s. The way I did not agree with how she did everything, but I cared for this character so deeply and felt for her loss—for how unfairly misunderstood she was. I admired her ambition, her dedication. I would have GIVEN TF UP a million times and she kept fighting.
Okay let’s talk about the memory stuff? I mean wow. This added such beautiful layers. I felt so sad at points in this, hopeful, and crushed. I loved Reeve. I missed Mal. I hated Mal. I changed my mind five thousand times, and ended up resenting nobody but Shadow when all was said and done.
Okay but back to Reeve. Their banter is unmatched; I just love him.
And then his sweet side too.
5/5
Very few books can surprise me and reel me in continuously, especially throughout 3 novels. Well done to the author!
These books never fail to do it for me.
PSA, I’ll definitely have some spoilers below; read with caution even though I’ll aim to make things vague.
I genuinely felt like I was in a toxic relationship while reading this because I was literally accepting scraps from Mal at the beginning here.
His voice was velvet. “You are in the dead blooms of hydrangea in the gardens. Your scent lingers in my chamber bed. In the Entrance Hall, I taste blood, and I know it is yours. I know little of you, and yet I know that you are mine.”
Coming off of tDP, I was team Reeve, mostly because continuing to back Mal was getting hard when he was genuinely appalling at times. But, I will say, Lauren had me confused at the start of this. I was like, wait, maybe he can be saved; maybe this can end with him. And then, when Reeve comes in, it’s like my entire reality shatters. As though I was unknowingly living in the dark, and then a window was smashed, revealing that there was light in the world the entire time and I’d merely grown accustomed to surviving off the scant glow of the moon.
All at once, I understood what Maeve was truly missing. Someone wholly devoted to her. Like the freaking earl grey tea thing? Come on. Mal just didn’t have that in him. He was cold, dark possession—mad with an infatuation for her power and loyalty to him. And we loooove a moody, I-love-nobody-and-nothing-but-her, kind of MC at times, but at a point I needed my girl to get a BREAK from the pain and insanity of loving someone lost to the darkness. But then I saw him trying to reach her and I was withering at the despair of it all.
“Mal,” she cried, unable to keep silent any longer. The words spilled from her lips like a broken and begging prayer, soft and defeated. “I’m so sorry.” Her words landed like a physical blow. Mal recoiled, his eyes closed sharply, and his face twisted in agony as his fist raised and slammed against the table. Magic rippled in multiple pulsing waves as he stood. Reeve kept them all from landing on himself and Maeve, pulling her flush against him at last. Mal’s arms raised, and he hunched violently over the table, palms slamming flat against the surface. His fingers retracted in torment, scraping as they clawed into the wood. His eyes were feral as he looked up at them.
Now don’t get me wrong. I sobbed like a million times reading this. I love Mal. I love all his twisted, horrific, irredeemable glory. But there was a point where I felt that if he did make it out in the end, he would not want to live with the fallout of what he went through. I was heartbroken for him. And a part of me genuinely died in the final chapters.
Mal’s other hand joined at her face, trembling and cold knuckles brushed against her bruised and blood-smeared skin. “I love you, Little Viper. In another world, perhaps I will again.”
I am truly impressed with the way this was written. The layers and complexity, the way I could never trust my instinct and never trust Maeve’s. The way I did not agree with how she did everything, but I cared for this character so deeply and felt for her loss—for how unfairly misunderstood she was. I admired her ambition, her dedication. I would have GIVEN TF UP a million times and she kept fighting.
“Stop,” he said coolly. She obeyed, annoyed. “Show them you are not broken, even if you think you are, show them you are not. Show him, with those pretty lips and the gown you are pretending to hate, that he should desire you above all. Remind him it is you he should bow to.”
Okay let’s talk about the memory stuff? I mean wow. This added such beautiful layers. I felt so sad at points in this, hopeful, and crushed. I loved Reeve. I missed Mal. I hated Mal. I changed my mind five thousand times, and ended up resenting nobody but Shadow when all was said and done.
Okay but back to Reeve. Their banter is unmatched; I just love him.
“I f**king hate this whole thing,” said Maeve, arms folded over her chest as she observed herself in the mirror.
“Yeah,” said Reeve with a controlled sigh behind her. “And you look hideous, too.”
And then his sweet side too.
His voice was smooth and dark. “I am still standing.” Her fingers shook against his cheek. “I will stand by you until the end.”
5/5
Very few books can surprise me and reel me in continuously, especially throughout 3 novels. Well done to the author!
November 12, 2025
Once again, another fantastic read from Lauren!
I was so ready to FINALLY get into this book. I feel like I've been with Lauren since the beginning last year! I was lucky enough to read Book 2, The Dread Prince, as an ARC earlier this year and so I was thrilled to get to read The Dread King before its release.
This book really just completely topped my expectations and took me on the most wild ride. I was NOT ready but also yet, sooo ready. I think that really getting to the penultimate end of this book was fantastic!
At first, it was crazy to see just where things had ended after book 2. I had almost forgotten what Maeve had done at the end and where we were starting out. I think that Maeve and Mal in the first few chapters really made me hopeful for them and how Mal was doing but BOY was I not ready for just how destructive their relationship would become.
Overall, a great read and a great finish to this trilogy. Also - long live all my Reeve girlies. I'm here with you!
I was so ready to FINALLY get into this book. I feel like I've been with Lauren since the beginning last year! I was lucky enough to read Book 2, The Dread Prince, as an ARC earlier this year and so I was thrilled to get to read The Dread King before its release.
This book really just completely topped my expectations and took me on the most wild ride. I was NOT ready but also yet, sooo ready. I think that really getting to the penultimate end of this book was fantastic!
At first, it was crazy to see just where things had ended after book 2. I had almost forgotten what Maeve had done at the end and where we were starting out. I think that Maeve and Mal in the first few chapters really made me hopeful for them and how Mal was doing but BOY was I not ready for just how destructive their relationship would become.
Overall, a great read and a great finish to this trilogy. Also - long live all my Reeve girlies. I'm here with you!
November 17, 2025
4/5
Physical book
The first two books beat you over the head with the idea that Maeve is for Mal. She loves him so fiercely she’ll shrink herself for him, bleed for him, lose herself if it means saving him. Then he becomes corrupted—and no matter how desperately she tries to pull him back, it overtakes him. She’s forced to flee for her life.
Somewhere in book two we get the wild reveal that Maeve and Mal actually had a son… a son no one remembered because Maeve wiped their memories after a prophecy said Mal would steal their child’s powers. When Mal discovers what she did, she erases memories again, removing herself entirely just to protect their son. Mal, once he pieces it together, spirals into rage and obsession with taking that power anyway.
Maeve, desperate, funnels all her magic into their son to protect him. Mal then sees her as useless—a shell without magic—and she’s “sold” to High Lord Reeve, who she’s also bonded to. And of course, this is when we start liking Reeve more… only for it to be revealed that Maeve wiped everyone’s memories when she was 19 to protect her werewolf brother. That mind wipe erased her entire relationship with Reeve, so now we’re learning their whole tragic backstory.
Meanwhile, Mal marries the elven queen who corrupted him. She’s been leeching his power while he chases his dream of ruling everything under his crown. Then Maeve starts getting visions of Mal and that queen together—and it is gross on every level.
Eventually Maeve manages to pull the corruption from Mal, but he’s just a shell afterward. Their magic keeps snapping back and forth between them, leaving Maeve stronger while Mal deteriorates. He fights the queen and ends up fulfilling the prophecy—he kills himself. And I’m upset. I’m annoyed. I’m grieving. It did not have to go like that.
Then the ending hits, and honestly? It felt weird. Part of me feels like the story was leaning toward a throuple, but that would never work with how possessive each man is. I’m still not sure Mal deserved the ending he got, especially after spending so much time building Maeve and Mal’s relationship. It feels like we left so much on the table.
But—credit where it’s due—I felt fully raptured reading this. I had to know how it ended. There were some jumpy transitions, but the author is definitely finding her voice. There was less of that chaotic collision of ideas from earlier books, and this one felt more sussed out and confident.
Maeve chooses Reeve in the end, sure… but we’re left with a thousand unanswered questions:
• Are the Dread Lands inhabitable again?
• Who inherits Mal’s territory?
• What is the fallout for the magical populations across the (yes) multiple planets??
• What does this world even look like now?
We got an ending, but not the closure.
Physical book
The first two books beat you over the head with the idea that Maeve is for Mal. She loves him so fiercely she’ll shrink herself for him, bleed for him, lose herself if it means saving him. Then he becomes corrupted—and no matter how desperately she tries to pull him back, it overtakes him. She’s forced to flee for her life.
Somewhere in book two we get the wild reveal that Maeve and Mal actually had a son… a son no one remembered because Maeve wiped their memories after a prophecy said Mal would steal their child’s powers. When Mal discovers what she did, she erases memories again, removing herself entirely just to protect their son. Mal, once he pieces it together, spirals into rage and obsession with taking that power anyway.
Maeve, desperate, funnels all her magic into their son to protect him. Mal then sees her as useless—a shell without magic—and she’s “sold” to High Lord Reeve, who she’s also bonded to. And of course, this is when we start liking Reeve more… only for it to be revealed that Maeve wiped everyone’s memories when she was 19 to protect her werewolf brother. That mind wipe erased her entire relationship with Reeve, so now we’re learning their whole tragic backstory.
Meanwhile, Mal marries the elven queen who corrupted him. She’s been leeching his power while he chases his dream of ruling everything under his crown. Then Maeve starts getting visions of Mal and that queen together—and it is gross on every level.
Eventually Maeve manages to pull the corruption from Mal, but he’s just a shell afterward. Their magic keeps snapping back and forth between them, leaving Maeve stronger while Mal deteriorates. He fights the queen and ends up fulfilling the prophecy—he kills himself. And I’m upset. I’m annoyed. I’m grieving. It did not have to go like that.
Then the ending hits, and honestly? It felt weird. Part of me feels like the story was leaning toward a throuple, but that would never work with how possessive each man is. I’m still not sure Mal deserved the ending he got, especially after spending so much time building Maeve and Mal’s relationship. It feels like we left so much on the table.
But—credit where it’s due—I felt fully raptured reading this. I had to know how it ended. There were some jumpy transitions, but the author is definitely finding her voice. There was less of that chaotic collision of ideas from earlier books, and this one felt more sussed out and confident.
Maeve chooses Reeve in the end, sure… but we’re left with a thousand unanswered questions:
• Are the Dread Lands inhabitable again?
• Who inherits Mal’s territory?
• What is the fallout for the magical populations across the (yes) multiple planets??
• What does this world even look like now?
We got an ending, but not the closure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2025
Slightly better than Book 2, still maddeningly confusing
Ok, so Book 2 is one of the very few books I have ever made an effort to write a review about that I gave 1 star. It was messy, not thought through, etc. Nevertheless, I made sure to pick up the third and final book because a) I had a morbid curiosity to see whether the author would manage to bring the story back on track or fully fall into chaos and b) maddeningly, annoyingly, my brain couldn't be dissuaded from wanting to know the ending.
So, let me start this by saying something nice: This could have been a lot worse, after how book 2 ended. I really did not know what to expect, but in the end we got a rather satisfying ending, good triumphed, etc etc etc.
Now: I really, warmly and constructively advise the author to search for different beta readers next time. The storyline, especially in the beginning, is utterly confusing. While I get that this can be a stylistic device in writing, I don't think it was meant to be one here, or if so, execution was lacking. Maeve was confused, I was confused, the rest of the world was confused.
Also, my second major point of criticism: the pacing. For most of this book (roughly 70% I would guess) it felt like next to nothing happened. That should not be the case in the conclusion of a trilogy. You should have ideally set up the story for pieces to fall into place and take on a life of their own. Here, there was what felt like a block on pacing because the FMC first had to figure out what was real and what was not and did that for literal *ages*. The pacing in the romantic plot also felt off. We get that she wanted to save Mal. . Eh.
The ending was really fine though. I also like that That was the logical consequence and everything else would have been weird.
So, yeah. I feel like this is a study in why fanfiction writers should be a bit more diligent in conducting actual world- and story building before publishing their work as originals, as that is what I assume happened here. Thank you for coming to my TED talk.
Ok, so Book 2 is one of the very few books I have ever made an effort to write a review about that I gave 1 star. It was messy, not thought through, etc. Nevertheless, I made sure to pick up the third and final book because a) I had a morbid curiosity to see whether the author would manage to bring the story back on track or fully fall into chaos and b) maddeningly, annoyingly, my brain couldn't be dissuaded from wanting to know the ending.
So, let me start this by saying something nice: This could have been a lot worse, after how book 2 ended. I really did not know what to expect, but in the end we got a rather satisfying ending, good triumphed, etc etc etc.
Now: I really, warmly and constructively advise the author to search for different beta readers next time. The storyline, especially in the beginning, is utterly confusing. While I get that this can be a stylistic device in writing, I don't think it was meant to be one here, or if so, execution was lacking. Maeve was confused, I was confused, the rest of the world was confused.
Also, my second major point of criticism: the pacing. For most of this book (roughly 70% I would guess) it felt like next to nothing happened. That should not be the case in the conclusion of a trilogy. You should have ideally set up the story for pieces to fall into place and take on a life of their own. Here, there was what felt like a block on pacing because the FMC first had to figure out what was real and what was not and did that for literal *ages*. The pacing in the romantic plot also felt off. We get that she wanted to save Mal. . Eh.
The ending was really fine though. I also like that That was the logical consequence and everything else would have been weird.
So, yeah. I feel like this is a study in why fanfiction writers should be a bit more diligent in conducting actual world- and story building before publishing their work as originals, as that is what I assume happened here. Thank you for coming to my TED talk.
November 29, 2025
🫣 Forgotten/Hidden Memories
💔 Heartbreak Incoming
🔮 Prophecies Fulfilled
😭 It Finished Me
📚 Street Team Member
“You are a dangerous dream,” he said. “My mind is filled with nightmares, and they do not enjoy sharing me.”
“Because… everything I touch falls to ruin.”
“I want to cherish you boldly. Not in darkened corners or behind closed doors. I want to stand with you in the light.”
“I try to give you time and space, but all I can see is you. I envision dying for you just to prove my worth. I see the rot of my grave giving birth to hydrangeas just to make you touch them.”
“Because I love you.”
“You’ve only just been thrust into the fire, only just begun being forged. Now the warrior is made. Now is your greatest hour, Maeve Sinclair.”
To start my review, I have to gush about Ms. Lauren Cate Leake. I’ve met her twice and it has always been like catching-up with an old friend. She’s incredibly sweet and humble - I just absolutely love her as a person! But as an author, blown away! I love this trilogy, to the point where I drug my feet to finish it. If I didn’t finish, it wouldn’t end… right? I wish it’s how things worked. To tell the truth, this last book finished me. I was sobbing by the end. I knew people were going to die, but I wasn’t ready. I’m still not.
This is how you finish a trilogy! The vicious love triangle we see through all three books could not have had a better ending in my opinion. This is exactly how I would have wanted things to end - Lauren ripped my heart out in the process, but what a beautiful story she wrote. I won’t tell you if I’m Team Reeve or Team Mal… I’ll just say that each side got its own version of a happy ending. Kinda.
My favorite part? I absolutely loved the ending. I felt all the emotions. All of them. I was so invested in Maeve rising to her full potential, Mal overcoming evil, Reeve revealing his true backstory/intentions and Abraxas just being Abraxas. I will miss these characters dearly. They were intricately and beautifully written. Easily one of my favorite books this year!
💔 Heartbreak Incoming
🔮 Prophecies Fulfilled
😭 It Finished Me
📚 Street Team Member
“You are a dangerous dream,” he said. “My mind is filled with nightmares, and they do not enjoy sharing me.”
“Because… everything I touch falls to ruin.”
“I want to cherish you boldly. Not in darkened corners or behind closed doors. I want to stand with you in the light.”
“I try to give you time and space, but all I can see is you. I envision dying for you just to prove my worth. I see the rot of my grave giving birth to hydrangeas just to make you touch them.”
“Because I love you.”
“You’ve only just been thrust into the fire, only just begun being forged. Now the warrior is made. Now is your greatest hour, Maeve Sinclair.”
To start my review, I have to gush about Ms. Lauren Cate Leake. I’ve met her twice and it has always been like catching-up with an old friend. She’s incredibly sweet and humble - I just absolutely love her as a person! But as an author, blown away! I love this trilogy, to the point where I drug my feet to finish it. If I didn’t finish, it wouldn’t end… right? I wish it’s how things worked. To tell the truth, this last book finished me. I was sobbing by the end. I knew people were going to die, but I wasn’t ready. I’m still not.
This is how you finish a trilogy! The vicious love triangle we see through all three books could not have had a better ending in my opinion. This is exactly how I would have wanted things to end - Lauren ripped my heart out in the process, but what a beautiful story she wrote. I won’t tell you if I’m Team Reeve or Team Mal… I’ll just say that each side got its own version of a happy ending. Kinda.
My favorite part? I absolutely loved the ending. I felt all the emotions. All of them. I was so invested in Maeve rising to her full potential, Mal overcoming evil, Reeve revealing his true backstory/intentions and Abraxas just being Abraxas. I will miss these characters dearly. They were intricately and beautifully written. Easily one of my favorite books this year!
November 11, 2025
𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠
𝐛𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐞
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟒𝐭𝐡
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- - -
I can't believe this is the last installment in the Dread series. And what an ending. I try to keep my emotions under control while writing this review. I still get teary eyes just thinking about it.
Don't forget to grab some tissues while reading this story. It's a wild ride and a whirlwind of emotions.
From the first word, you instantly get pulled into the story. It felt like coming home when the main characters appeared. I missed Maeve, Mal and Reeve so much. And the minor characters as well. They all hold a special place in my heart.
But, it was only around 30% into the book my favorite character, Reeve, made an entrance. I was wondering where my man was! Reeve was a mystery. A mystery you wanted to unravel. I am so glad we got to know more about him, his past and his powers. His story made my heart ache. What an amazing man! And Maeve, how she transformed into a beautiful, powerful phoenix (although she is known as Dread Viper). It was just incredible to see her character development! I am so proud of her. And last but not least, Mal. From the start he was such an interesting character. He reminded me a lot of young Tom Riddle from the Harry Potter movie. He was just so intriguing and I wanted to know about the powerful Dread Magic he owns and what he could do with it. All the characters from this series blew my mind!
This story is action-packed with a unique magic system, twists and turns that will make you gasp and pull at you hair, lots and lots of tears, beautiful reunions, and such a bittersweet ending. I highly recommend this series! This series own my heart and I am sad that I have to say goodbye. I will miss them so dearly.
Thank you so much for the ARC, Lauren and PA Laura Elizabeth!
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠
𝐛𝐲 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐞
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟒𝐭𝐡
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- - -
I can't believe this is the last installment in the Dread series. And what an ending. I try to keep my emotions under control while writing this review. I still get teary eyes just thinking about it.
Don't forget to grab some tissues while reading this story. It's a wild ride and a whirlwind of emotions.
From the first word, you instantly get pulled into the story. It felt like coming home when the main characters appeared. I missed Maeve, Mal and Reeve so much. And the minor characters as well. They all hold a special place in my heart.
But, it was only around 30% into the book my favorite character, Reeve, made an entrance. I was wondering where my man was! Reeve was a mystery. A mystery you wanted to unravel. I am so glad we got to know more about him, his past and his powers. His story made my heart ache. What an amazing man! And Maeve, how she transformed into a beautiful, powerful phoenix (although she is known as Dread Viper). It was just incredible to see her character development! I am so proud of her. And last but not least, Mal. From the start he was such an interesting character. He reminded me a lot of young Tom Riddle from the Harry Potter movie. He was just so intriguing and I wanted to know about the powerful Dread Magic he owns and what he could do with it. All the characters from this series blew my mind!
This story is action-packed with a unique magic system, twists and turns that will make you gasp and pull at you hair, lots and lots of tears, beautiful reunions, and such a bittersweet ending. I highly recommend this series! This series own my heart and I am sad that I have to say goodbye. I will miss them so dearly.
Thank you so much for the ARC, Lauren and PA Laura Elizabeth!
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