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Rite of the Vampire #2

The Witch Queen

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A young woman with a deadly mission. A man trying to save his people. And a terrible challenge that might drive them apart ...

When Drake left me behind, I thought my heart would break. But before I could change my mind and follow him, Princess Morda of the Silverblood found me.

I'm now back at my coven, viewed as a heroine for having succeeded in my suicide mission. But I don't feel like a heroine. I feel like I'm being torn into pieces as Princess Morda insists in using my accomplishment as an example to encourage the other witches to act.

Our enemy covens grow restless and since my coven is the only one without a Witch Queen, we're at a disadvantage. But Princess Morda has a plan for that-a horrific plan I don't want to be a part of.

Among escapades to meet Drake-who has his own problems to deal with-and navigating the complicated rules of a place I once loved, I find myself lonely and lost.

But I can't surrender to the darkness now. A war is coming and I have a key part to play.

An exhilarating and dark paranormal romance novel, The Witch Queen is a dazzling new adult fantasy featuring an enigmatic vampire prince and a resilient witch. Fans of A Shade of Vampire by Bella Forrest and The Vampire Diaries will become addicted to this series!

17+

Rite of the Vampire Saga
The Vampire Heir (Book 1) = out now!
The Witch Queen (Book 2) = out now!
The Immortal Vow (Book 3) = out now!

200 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 16, 2018

247 people are currently reading
562 people want to read

About the author

Juliana Haygert

152 books1,825 followers
USA Today Bestselling Author.

While Juliana Haygert dreams of being Wonder Woman, Buffy, or a blood elf shadow priest, she settles for the less exciting—but equally gratifying—life of a wife, mother, and author. She resides in North Carolina and spends her days writing about kick-ass heroines and the heroes who drive them crazy.

Want to know about announcement, events, cover reveals, and other fun stuff related to my writing and my books? Sign up for my newsletter: bit.ly/JuHNL

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5 stars
171 (40%)
4 stars
147 (34%)
3 stars
83 (19%)
2 stars
19 (4%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,810 reviews18 followers
April 6, 2018
The Witch Queen by Juliana Haygert a five-star read that you will worship. This is the second book in the Rite of the Vampire Saga series and follows on from the first book The Vampire Heir, so you would need to have read that one first. Thea Harrington has completed her mission and much to everyone’s surprise she survived the ordeal, and not only survived but found something unexpected along the way. Prince Drake DuMoir is what she found, when she found him she realised that not all vampires are monsters as well as some other realisations.
This book brings more characters into the fold, we get to meet the witches of the Silverblood coven, and watch as they try to find the Queen of their coven, but will it be as easy as they think? I know I have a theory about that but I’m not sharing, you will need to read the story to find your own.
Drake and Thea both face a battle, but will they be strong enough to win the war? Juliana Haygert you have blown me away, I can’t wait for book three.
Profile Image for Euge.
108 reviews7 followers
October 19, 2022
La bruja reina es la esperada segunda parte de la saga "Ritual del vampiro".

Me había gustado mucho el primer libro por lo que sospechaba que también iba a disfrutar este, puedo decir que tenía razón.

En esta segunda parte vemos como Thea debe volver a su aquelarre con el corazón luego de la batalla por el mismo, pero no todo parece ser como antes, o por lo menos, ella no lo ve igual. Al mismo tiempo, Drake debe volver al castillo con sus compañeros vampiros y tratar de recuperar el control antes de que todo se les vaya de las manos. Con misiones diferentes los caminos se separan, pero ellos tendrán que sobreponerse y vencer para que sus mundos no colapsen.

La verdad es que estoy muy contenta de cómo siguió el curso de los personajes. Thea sobre todo tuvo un gran crecimiento desde el primer libro logrando que hacia el final del segundo se viera un cambio bastante grande en su personalidad y confianza. Drake también tuvo un cambio bastante importante, aunque su camino es más político en este libro ya que empieza a buscar aliados en los lugares más inesperados. Ambos se habían ganado mi cariño y en el anterior y lo reafirmaron en este.

La narrativa es simple y atrapante por lo que el libro se lee rapidísimo. Todos los capítulos dejan con ganas de seguir leyendo y el hecho de que sea un corto hace que pueda leerse en un fin de semana.

Definitivamente quiero saber cómo termina esta historia y ruego por el final feliz de este par.

⚠️TW: Violencia física - mención de abuso - sangre - muerte explícita.⚠️
Profile Image for Kendall {Book Crazy}.
1,487 reviews
April 6, 2018
I read an ARC of the first book in this series and loved it a lot, so I couldn't wait to read this book! The author then contacted me about an ARC of this book and I jumped at the chance and started reading it straightaway! After reading, I can say that I enjoyed this book just as much as the first book! I loved the direction that the author took it in and that there were some twist and turns to keep things interesting! The plot also developed at the perfect pace and it kept me wanting to read on to find out what was going to happen next! There were a few seriously hot scenes in the plot too! I wasn't expecting so many of them, but they were really hot! There was some action and suspense scenes in the plot too! These scenes added a lot and really changed the direction of the plot! The characters were again amazing and made this book even better! Thea was again the main female character, and in this book she was back with her coven! It was interesting to see Thea on her own and with her coven because it showed how far she had come and how different she was to the other witches! It made me have a lot of respect for Thea too because she didn't lower herself to peer pressure and expectations! I also connected with Thea all the way through this book and I didn't lose that connection with her! Drake was again the main male character and love interest of Thea! Drake was again seriously hot and went through a lot in this book! I really felt for him in this book because he was stuck between a rock and a hard place and he wasn't sure who he could trust! There was also a lot going on for Drake and he was trying to stop a war from happening! Drake tried his best and he was still very protective of Thea, even though she did some kick-ass saving of her own lol, and it was easy to see how much he loved her! I loved that this book was written from both Thea and Drake's point of views like the first book was! I was hoping that it was going to be, especially after the ending of the first book, so I'm really happy that it was! Being written from both characters point of views allowed for more things to happen in the plot, especially since both characters spent quite a lot of this book apart, and it helped me connect more with the two of them as well! I also can't wait to read the next book in this series! I think that it's the final book, so I can't wait to find out how everything is going to end for Thea and Drake! The final book also releases next month, which makes me really happy because I only have to wait just over a month for it! The ending was also left at the perfect place and I'm really happy that it wasn't a huge cliff-hanger! I can't wait to check out this author's other books too and give them a read! I also love the cover for this book a lot! It suits the cover for the first book perfectly and it suits the book perfectly too! The model is also the perfect Thea and it would definitely draw me to the book! Big thank you to Juliana for an ARC of The Witch Queen!
Profile Image for Seraphia Bunny.
2,120 reviews34 followers
April 16, 2018
Thea and Drake are back. Thea is burdened with the task of returning to her Coven. She has been successful in her mission of reclaiming the stolen heart, but she must part ways with Drake. Something that she does not wish to do, but she knows that she must. Thea knows that her return will be a good omen for her Coven, as they will be less defenseless than they have been. But what she doesn't know is the dangers that await her as her power-hungry Princess eagerly awaits the heart. The Princess will use Thea as an example for her other witches. While this is not that big of a problem for Thea, what the Princess demands of all the witches are something that could end up destroying her. Especially should she refuse.
Drake must return to his own, but what he finds when he returns is more than he can handle. Somehow he must find the strength to stay strong. He knows that change must come, but in his current position, he won't be able to do much. Can Drake and Thea survive their separate challenges and come together to save the supernatural world? Or will the powers that wish to rule destroy them all?
The Witch Queen by Juliana Haygert is a fantastic follow up to her first book in the Rite of the Vampire series, The Vampire Heir. This book picks up right where the first book left off, for which I am eternally grateful. It's heartbreaking to follow these two characters who don't wish to be part but know that they must do what is best for their separate covens. Thea has such a warm and caring heart, but regrettably, it comes back to bite her. Watching Drake struggle with the losses that he is hit with, it's a surprise that he doesn't go a touch mad at it. I'm glad that he manages to stay in control. The author weaves this story so beautifully and will keep you engaged from start to finish. There are also some revelations that will shock you, and some moments that will truly surprise you. I have to say that this author has done a great job with making this book even better than the first. The twists, turns, set-ups, deceptions, and revelations! I couldn't get enough!
There is honestly nothing that I don't like about this story. You can just feel the love and effort that the author puts into her characters to make them truly engaging and amazing. The storyline flows beautifully without any hiccups. I love the twists and the surprises the author puts into the story. You honestly won't see them coming.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. This is a fantastic novel. If you're worried about a cliffhanger to keep you hanging until the next novel...don't worry about that. The author ends the story with a nice closure, but with the promise that there will be more. I'm eagerly looking for the next book in this series as Thea and Drake work together with their mixed group to try and bring about a necessary change that must come if they are all to survive. Add this book to your to-be-read shelf and buy it! You won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for Leyla.
41 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2022
¿Cómo andan? Hoy les traigo la reseña del segundo libro de la trilogía "Ritual del vampiro"

Título: La reina bruja
Autora: Juliana Haygert
Páginas: 200

•••••••••• RESEÑA ••••••••••

Aún sostengo lo mucho que me gustan estos tipos de libros que mezclan fantasía y el romance. Cómo también el hecho de que me gusta este libro.

Sentí que fue mucho más corto y llevadero que el anterior, pero para mi gusto, me hubiese gustado que sea más largo.

Me gusta que se intercalen las narraciones entre los protagonistas, pero en este libro me gustó mucho más Thea. Quizás porque se centraba más en ella, pero la sentí con mucha más personalidad.
También me llamó la atención como cambiaron algunos personajes y como otros ingresaron para darle un plus a la trama.

El final sigue siendo muy abierto y no me gustó tanto, siento que tranquilamente la historia podría haber seguido, pero es verdad que me dejó con ganas de más. Ya espero poder leer la tercer y última parte.

PD: Estoy segura de que es buenísimo para salir de bloqueos lectores o para descontracturar.

⭐⭐⭐/5

¿Conocían está trilogía? Pueden encontrar la primer reseña en mi perfil.

#amoleer #Bookstagram #booklove #Bookstagramargentina #trilogia #fantasiajuvenil #vampiros #brujas
Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews154 followers
April 13, 2018
5 Cranky Stars


This book leaves off where the first story leaves off. Thea is dealing with the aftermath, a broken heart, and helping her coven get their revenge. She must do everything in her power to find a way back to overcome the obstacles in her path.


If Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Supernatural had a love child, this book series would be their baby. My heart was in my throat as I read the action-packed story. The one plot twist that I did not see coming had me screaming at a certain character. Their betrayal hurt me to the core. I couldn’t put this book down once I got it started.


The plot was amazing. The author really put me on a rollercoaster of emotions with this story. I cannot wait for the next book. Even though it will be the last one, I am ready for my heart to be ripped from chest. If you read this book, you will get that reference. I will definitely recommend this story to others. Juliana Haygert has gained a fan for life in me.
Profile Image for Kimi.
277 reviews4 followers
April 21, 2018
I am so happy to have read book 2! I loved book 1. I can honestly say this one is even better then the first one. And that’s saying a lot because I thought book 1 was AWESOME. There’s so much more happening in Thea & Drake’s story. I don’t like to post any spoilers in my reviews because I believe it’s best for everyone to read for themselves to experience how good each story really is. And I highly recommend this series because it truly is a great story. Lots of action and surprises that’s for sure. And a love story between a witch and a vampire which is totally forbidden love. Thea is a super kick ass lead female character and Drake her love is a devoted and strong vampire. After reading this story so far I am not ashamed to say that I wish it didn’t stop! I want to know what happens next I have some guesses at what might be happening to Thea as to why her powers are like that... so I can’t wait to see if my guesses are correct! It’s so good and keeps you wanting more and more! Author Juliana Haygert is a wonderful writer! I am so glad I was able to read this story of hers. I am a total fan for sure now.
Profile Image for Samantha Silensky.
428 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2018
In this second book of The Rite of the Vampire Saga series, Thea has managed to return the heart of her coven. But at a great price. Her own heart. She struggles with having had to leave drake behind to face his clan, but has problems of her own to deal with as the crazed top princess of the silverblood coven soon reveals the lengths she will go to in order to have power. The book switches between Thea and her struggles in the coven, and drake, and his attempts to find a solution to the havoc brewing at the castle. It also follows the struggles both of them have being so far away from each other. They both must cope with dangers, betrayals, and more loss, and no idea if it will all work out in the end. This is another marvelous read for this series, full of action, betrayal, emotion, and surprises, and I eagerly await the 3rd book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Nicole.
656 reviews30 followers
April 9, 2018
I received a free copy of this book directly from Ms. Haygert. Thank you so much Juliana! This is my review.

This novel was so amazing. This novel picks up right where the first novel left off! These characters are so interesting and the first novel left us readers wanting and needing more of this world!

Action-packed does not even being to describe this installment. This was such a fast-paced novel. I read it in one sitting because I needed to know what was going to happen to Thea and to Drake.

I feel like so many questions were answered, but so many more were raised. With this being the second novel, I don't want to spoil anything...but just know this series is totally worth reading and re-reading. It is extremely entertaining and so so good ! I can't speak highly enough of this series, it truly is extraordinary.
Profile Image for Debbie Chittenden.
1,096 reviews
March 31, 2018
***This book was issued by the author. My review is given freely and honestly just because I love to read***

Book 2 in the "Rite of the Vampire Saga" was so intense and action filed that I never knew what to expect. The power to feel what you are reading is a talent of the author Juliana Haygert has. I'm so emotionally invested in this series I cannot wait for the next installment. I simply love Thomas and his character, Ebby is an evil witch and needs to pay for her treachery. Morda will get her dues as well as the other supernaturals.

I truly hope that Drake and Thea can find peace soon. Thea's heart is pure and deserves peace and love.
Profile Image for Jennifer Lil'n  Dunski.
1,537 reviews15 followers
April 18, 2018
Witches, Werewolves & Vampires, Oh my!

I received this book from the author

This is the second book in Rite of the Vampire saga, and it picks up from where the first book left off. And I have to say, this story was even more intense than the first and I'm looking forward to book 3!

The action is more, the drama is crazier, the magic more powerful, it's all the feels!!! Juliana brings together a world that I can truly envision. Ruthless vampires, shifty werewolves and cold-hearted witches. Well put together, excellent characters and a backstory that keeps everything glued together.
It's all together powerful and amazing and intense.
Profile Image for Amy Hannagan.
761 reviews3 followers
April 17, 2018
Great story! I loved the way this book bridges from the intro story of The Vampire Price to what I believe will be an incredible finally book. Exploring the vampire side of things in book one was fun but to dig into the witches was illuminating and harsh in the best possible way. Thea, now awakened to a more worldly woman, now sees that the traditions she was born into are sexist and cruel and she wants to change things as much as Drake wants to change the vampire world. Drake, having returned to the vampire coven, is faced with Lord Alex and being the prime suspect in the murders from book 1. This is really a nail bitter to read. I just couldn't put it down until the very last page.
Profile Image for Pauline .
558 reviews2 followers
April 22, 2018
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Second book in the series. The story continues from where the other left off so there is no interruption. It's fast-paced right from the start with twists and turns that continue all the way through,leaving you surprised and breathless. Lots of action, battles but also some very hot scenes to spice things up a bit.
Thea and Drake are trying to change their supernatural worlds but it's hard to go up against centuries old habits and traditions. Another chapter comes to a close but their story will continue.
Thrilling fantasy read. Recommended for older readers due to steamy encounters.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
210 reviews4 followers
April 2, 2018
I recieved this book as an ARC copy.

This is the second book in the series and I am sad that there will only be one more. I love these characters and how they are developing. It is a nice fast paced read that keeps you interested from the very beginning until the last page. I can not wait to read the next one.
2,881 reviews11 followers
April 12, 2018
Great story. Well told. Emotionally taxing tale. Thea and Drake are an excellent example of a couple willing to sacrifice their immediate relationship for the greater good of those around them. While Morda and Alex are not a couple, they are otherwise the exact opposite of Thea and Drake.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and voluntarily posted an honest review.
2,328 reviews6 followers
February 3, 2022
A good series.

I enjoyed this story. Thea and Drake fight to improve the paranormal world. Both of them become stronger, and experience character growth since the first book. Twist , betrayal and action are in the plot. It is better to read this series in order.
Profile Image for Kim F.
2,873 reviews2 followers
April 16, 2018
An awesome book. Extremely entertaining, captivating and interesting sexy read. I could not put it down. Wonderfully written with strong, intriguing characters. I want to read more from this author. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Claire Douglas.
105 reviews2 followers
April 21, 2018
I loved this second book in this series I was hooked from the beginning.
12.7k reviews190 followers
May 3, 2018
This is the second book in an awesome series. Thea is an amazing character that makes you feel a part of the story. I just couldn’t put it down and definitely ready for more by this superb author
1,543 reviews14 followers
May 13, 2018
Awesome book

This story was incredible,outstanding,exciting and just plain awesome 😄😊!. Juliana is an amazing writer and fantastic storyteller!.Her stories are very good!!.
Profile Image for Bobbi.
731 reviews22 followers
April 13, 2018
This one starts where the book 1 left off. Bringing you more twists and turns and edge of your seat action. I seriously can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Charlotte Lowe.
808 reviews
May 15, 2018
The Witch Queen

Fighting for the good, overthrowing cruel leadership and loving one thoroughly is the formula for this story. Although not all plans work out, the fight is not finished.
Profile Image for Bec.
2,121 reviews11 followers
March 17, 2024
Oh my goodness. Drake and Thea’s story has me intrigued. I couldn’t stop reading. Juliana Haygert is such a brilliant author. I can’t wait to read what happens next. Recommend to all.
Profile Image for The Mysterious Reader.
3,589 reviews66 followers
May 26, 2018
I love Juliana Haygert novels, and had a blast with The Vampire Heir, book 1 in her Rite of the Vampire series, so it’s no surprise that I was delighted to get my hands on The Witch Queen, the series’ second book. This book is, quite simply, extremely imaginative and superbly written. It had just what I wanted and was well written and with a great plot and great cast of characters. I frankly adore Thea and love watching her take on everything that hits her, be it missing Drake, a power-hungry princess or anything else. The rest of the cast of characters is pretty amazing as well. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to book 3.
Profile Image for Chris Williams.
7 reviews
September 20, 2020
Just like the first book in the series I finished this in one day! It was even better and had my attention from page one! Drake is trying to change the ways the vampire coven does things and take out the new Lord Alex. Thea now sees the way her coven and the witches are is not how she wants to be. Both Drake and Thea want their to be peace and all the fae to be able to live without war and hatred. In order to do that they each must deal with battles amongst people in their own covens and it’s not going to be easy. I don’t like writing spoilers and getting into to much about the book but it is a great read and I recommend it!
Profile Image for Lori Ferry.
59 reviews2 followers
June 8, 2018
Wow What An On The Edge Read

I thought Thea and Drake were incredible in the first book ,this one has it beat. This series takes you on the edge and leaves you dangle there before pulling you back in. Spoiler in glad Alex got what was so to him. Juliana Haygert knows here witches and vampires that's for sure. Can't wait to get to the next book. Looking for a fast pass on the edge of your seat read than look no further thisi is for you.
Profile Image for Victor Gonzalez Gonzalez.
117 reviews
August 31, 2020
I loved it ❤️❤️❤️. Just like the first time, it kept me looking forward to what was going to happen.🤔🤯🤔🤯

I love Drake and Thea, their love between them ❤️❤️❤️ and their scenes are pure fire and passion.🔥🔥🔥

When they got jealous of each other, I laughed too hard 😂😂😂

Thomas' death filled my eyes with tears.😭😭👻👻

I love Keeran ❤️ and Luana's betrayal bothered me again.😡😡😡

I hate Morda and Alex with my soul 🤬🤬🤬and jump for joy when Drake finished him.👏👏👏

Amazing book ❤️❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Conny.
858 reviews3 followers
February 23, 2021
I loved this book 2, but there are scenes in it that I don't like.
What happend to Thomas in the beginning was so cruel, it left me crying, I would never have done that. If I was an author I would not do that.

And, sex is okay, it belongs in such a world like the rite word, but not like this. It should be less dirty and more romantic, not with all the details, we have our own fantasy you know ....

But I loved the rest of this book, and start now with book 3.
Profile Image for GTR33GURL.
850 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2018
Great read

Another good read the fight between good and evil finding out your more powerful and the love of your life be your side now all they need to do is make peace between the supernatural looking forward to the last book
Profile Image for Andrea Loveless.
164 reviews4 followers
June 15, 2018
Nope

Inconsistencies (first book said Thomas was 8 when he came to the castle this one said 14, for example). So many spelling errors and word mixups (assessed/accessed and pining/pinning). Sex scenes are awful. Drake said hell 5 times in like 2 pages. Just terrible.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews

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