Dawn of Vengeance

The Droseran Saga #2

by Ronie Kendig

A haunting prophecy upended his identity. Now it demands his life.

Once a formidable bounty hunter, Marco Dusan is plagued by insecurity as he tours the realm he now rules. This quiet, backwater planet is not as untouched as he'd once thought. Evidence of collusion between Droseran factions and the powerful Symmachians with their forbidden technology litters his encounters. Worse, all signs indicate Xisya, the alien who tortured him, is still snatching Kynigos Brethren-but to what end?

Corporal Eija Zacdari works hard to win a coveted place on the Symmachian hyperjump program, but instinct tells her their intel is flawed. Despite nearly failing the tests, she is assigned to the team-and lands in the middle of a bewildering conspiracy.

Haunted by a prophecy that promises pain and war, Marco forges alliances to protect the primitive world against Symmachia's devastating influence. But one truth becomes painfully clear: the biggest threat to their world may be much, much closer to home.

Genres: Fantasy, Science Fiction, Romance, Space Opera, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Audiobook

416 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2020

About the author

Ronie Kendig is a bestselling, award-winning author of over thirty books. She grew up an Army brat, and now she and her Army-veteran husband have returned to their beloved Texas after a nearly ten-year stint in the Northeast. They survive on Sonic runs, barbecue, and peach cobbler that they share--sometimes--with Benning the Stealth Golden and AAndromeda the #mwdwashout. Ronie's degree in psychology has helped her pen novels of intense, raw characters.

Since launching onto the publishing scene, Ronie’s Rapid-Fire Fiction has hit the CBA Bestseller List, won the prestigious Christy Award, Carol Award, the RT Reviewers' Choice Award (twice), the HOLT Medallion, the IRCA, and FamilyFiction’s Readers’ Choice Awards.

Ronie loves people and helping other writers through speaking, workshops, and/or mentoring. Find Ronie at www.roniekendig.com, on Facebook (www.facebook.com/rapidfirefiction) , Twitter (@roniekendig), GoodReads, and Instagram (www.instagram.com/kendigronie ).

Reviews

[Ronie]

Again, no rating since it's my book, but I just did a read-thru (so it totally counts as a read for GR purposes, IMNSHO) of the final proofread document. I'll read it through again in another month.

And can I just say, LE SIGH...Marco. :-D

[Jane Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

The English language isn't good enough to express all my feelings about this amazing book. It SLAYS.

Ronie's characters are masterful. The new characters in this book captured my heart instantly, and quickly became new favourites. They're so dynamic and engaging and complex.

This book made me feel things I didn't think were possible after I was absolutely smashed by the ending of Brand of Light. Things I thought I believed, characters I thought I hated, plot twists I thought I knew--they're all turned upside down and my heart was torn open again several times over.

Dawn builds on the ending of Brand so perfectly, yet takes the story on a glorious new path that I ADORE but never expected. As with the first book, I love that the plot of this is so sly and complex, but still very easy to follow even with the epic twists and turns!

I am utterly in love with and in awe of Ronie's writing and could read it forever and not get tired. The action scenes, world building, character development, heartwarming and heartwrenching moments of this story are all so phenomenally crafted. My jaw is on the floor.

Can I just take a moment to softly scream MAARCOOOOOO!!!!!!! *sobbing* I love him even more than before, but I don't know if my heart can survive this torture for much longer.

Also can I take another moment to softly scream about how MY NAME IS IN THE ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS??? I'M DEAD. 😍

I’m floored in so many ways and my breath has been thoroughly stolen until next December when I can devour the third book. Ronie has done it again, friends.


I received a complimentary copy from the author and was not required to write a positive review.

[Fiction Aficionado · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot begin to tell you how much my heart is caught up in this series. These characters are some of the most compelling I have ever encountered and the story . . . Man, I just can’t get enough, even if it does have me tied in knots! There is simply no one who writes like Ronie Kendig.

I therefore offer the following advice:

1. Buy this book at your earliest convenience.
2. If you haven’t read Brand of Light (the first in this series), buy it too, because you need to read that first.
3. Prepare a meal or two in advance for any family members who rely on you to feed them, otherwise they may feel neglected once you begin reading. For that matter, have some snacks on standby for yourself to minimise interruptions.
4. Set all electronic devices to “do not disturb” or put them far, far away. (An exception should be made if you have a bookish friend on standby for emotional support.)
5. Be forewarned that the urge to pick up Dawn of Vengeance immediately upon finishing Brand of Light will likely be intense, so if you are starting with Brand of Light, you will need to plan your reading time accordingly.
6. For optimal conditions, convince a friend to read the series with you. Only someone who has read the series can truly appreciate everything you will be experiencing and feeling.
7. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery for approximately 24 hours after finishing reading unless absolutely certain all traces of book hangover have dissipated. In severe cases, it may take up to 48 hours to fully recover. (“Recover” is a relative term.)

If you have any semblance of a life that needs to carry on or requires you to function outside of this story world while you are reading it (or indeed, for a period of time once you’ve finished reading it), you have my deepest sympathy—I’ve been there. Just do the best you can. And don’t fool yourself into thinking it will be easier on the second (or third, or fourth) read through. This is not iocane powder. There is no building immunity!

All that is to say, THIS SERIES ROCKS!

I received a copy of this novel from the author. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Toni Shiloh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, Ronie Kendig has weaved a tale to engage all the senses, bring about all the feels, and keep the reader turning the page.

As this is book 2 in the Droseran saga, it has to be read after book 1. I think too many people would be confused if they started with this book. And since Brand of Light (book 1) was a fantastic read, go ahead and dive right in!

There are some new characters in Dawn and I wasn’t sure how they would be connected, but the more you read, the more the pieces begin to fall into place. There were a couple of scenes that had me tense as I waited to find out what would happen. And the ending, a cliff hanger that leaves you wanting more and eagerly waiting the conclusion to this space opera.

Romance fans, don’t be afraid to dive into speculative fiction. There’s romance and Ms. Kendig is great at pouring emotion into her books.

If you’ve read the book, leave me an emoji letting me know your feelings on the end!

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. My review was not required nor influenced.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I’ve had this book on my shelf for over a year and a half simply because I knew it would hit hard. I’d heard the ending was an epic cliffhanger and after reading Brand of Light, I knew I’d need a lot of headspace.
•
Well, I took this beautiful book on vacation and was encouraged by a number of my bookstagram friends to read it.
•
And again. Wow oh wow. I started this book on Tuesday and finished it four days later. I can’t even. Marco, Isaura, Eija, Ixion, Kersi, Darius, every point of view, every storyline, every twist and turn was a masterpiece. The beginning had me a bit conflicted but by the time I got to the end I was solidly in a certain camp.
•
We get so many reveals, but there’s so much left to discover. I am so excited to dive into Shadow of Honor and am so glad I waited until now to read Dawn!
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All in all, an epic book two to the Droseran Saga!
Five out of five!
Ages 16 & up
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Content-mention of making love (married couples), some human experimentation, fighting, war, decapitation, kidnapping.

[Lily]

Sale alert!! The hardcover copy of this book is only $2.97 on Amazon right now!!! That's crazyyyyy!!!!!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1621841456?...

[Abby · Rating 5 out of 5]

How am I supposed to review this book? It. Was. Amazing!
.
Dawn of Vengeance is full of fascinating characters that I can't help but love, (except the ones who's noses I'd love to break.) It had so many twists and turns, danger, adventure, and Marco 😍. While reading I was so stressed and just wanted a happily ever after. But when that does come, I think it will be very bitter sweet. It ends on an extreme cliff hanger that I'll be thinking about until chapter three comes out. (Which I cannot wait for, by the way.) I don't really know what else to say without going into rambling spoiler mode. 🤣
.
So basically, go get yourself a copy of Brand Of Light, then rear Dawn of Vengeance.
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This was my first series by Ronie Kendig and I absolutely love her writing style!! she is very talented and I definitely want to read more by her.

[Kailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! This has to be my new favorite book by Ronie Kendig! The book hangover was real with this one! While reading I couldn’t put the book down! Once I finished, I struggled with being able to start something new.

I highly, highly recommend that you read Brand of Light first so you can understand everything. This book just made me love Marco even more! I NEED the next book!!




I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

[Eve · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawn of Vengeance was the perfect continuation of the story we started in Brand of Light! I really enjoyed meeting the new characters and learning their stories as well as the older characters.

I’m super interested in seeing where Kendig takes the next books in the series considering the *ahem* new developments from this book!

Content wise, this is technically an adult book but the only “scandalous” thing is the fade-to-black scenes we get. And as expected, there is violence and battles and death and pain. So I’d recommend for older teens and up.

[Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really respected Brand of Light when I read it, but I have to confess that it stressed me out. For its slim size, and considering that it was put out but a Christian imprint, I found Kersei and Marco’s story surprisingly dark and heavy. Kendig didn’t shy away from the hard, and her characters experienced quite a lot of trauma, both on page and off. She toed the line in terms of content, from language to violence to sexual content, the balance struck managing to feel simultaneously clean and edgy. It was just unlike any other story I’ve experienced in the Christian realm, which led to some cognitive dissonance. However, it’s a story that I’ve thought about often in the months since I read it, so it was only a matter of time before I had to return to the series. Strangely enough, I experienced that same shock to my system all over again in Dawn of Vengeance. This series is not for the faint of heart or the impatient of mind. Once I reacclimated, I was swept away but the continuation of the story.

At first, I was thrown by the romance in this book. It seemed to be far too much in the fore of the story for my personal taste—especially considering how things ended in the first book. And with everything else going on in the plot, it just seemed to me that too much page time was given to this one element of the story, to the detriment of the rest. However, my opinion on that changed. I was pretty fascinated by, not only how integral these romantic relationships were to the plot, but how Kendig managed to make things grow and change in the hearts of these characters without compromising said characters’ core integrity.

(Things get a little racier than I would have expected from a Christian imprint, but there’s a line that’s never crossed. There’s a lot of sexual build-up, but from there things fade to black. I respect that.)

This is a space opera in more than one sense. First of all, it richly combines the atmospheres of both classic fantasy and harder science fiction. It’s a heady combination when an author can pull it off, and Kendig does so with aplomb. But it’s also insanely, operatically, dramatic. So much so that I took to calling it a space soap opera when discussing it with my husband. But it’s a level of drama that really works for the story being told. There’s a formality to this series—to the writing, the characters, the story itself—that keeps me from fully sinking into the tale whenever I read an installment. But that same formality is what keeps the drama of the series from edging into melodrama. It’s a balance that took me a while to acclimate into, but it’s one that really works.

Dawn of Vengeance follows it predecessor in its ending; both novels end on a cliffhanger, but with enough hope and resolution to not be maddening. They do, however, definitely compel readers to pick up the next installment. Which means I’ll likely be reading Shadow of Honor sooner rather than later.

[(Katie) Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐

[Shamina · Rating 1 out of 5]

I am in the minority here and I do not care. I only liked the last 1/3 or so of the last book. Most of that was due to the romantic leads finally meeting. I chose to read that book because I was looking for an adult sci-fi/fantasy novel with a little bit of romance. If I was in the mood for straight sci-fi or fantasy with no romance I wouldn't have even picked up the book. There are excellent authors in that genre and I'd have just stuck to them. I ended up giving it a pretty good rating and review, overlooking some glaring flaws in the story itself. Partly it was because I was given a hard sell on the romance between Kersie and Marco. The other part was the excellent narration of the audiobook. Some thought the MC's had "insta-love" and I can't totally disagree, but I knew I loved my husband 2 weeks after we started dating. We married one year later and have been together 20 years now. It does happen in real life. Kersie and Marco spent many weeks together on that transport ship, more than enough time to fall in love.

So, the end of "Brand of Light" was awful to say the least. I know that conflict has to be present for there to be interest in a story, so I figured the leads were being set up for just such a conflict. Imagine my disappointment when a quarter of the way through the second book I realize that Marco is now going to fall in love with a new girl. Kersie is stuck with her rapist and pregnant with his child. I read through all of the reviews, even the ones with spoilers, looking for any hope for Kersie and Marco, but came up empty handed. Critical reviews are almost non-existent for this series so I wasn't finding any answers. I did read that Kersie basically goes through character assassination in order to uplift Isauara. That the rapist Darius is given a possible redemption arc, and I finally did get confirmation that Kersie and Marco are not going to end up together. So I am not finishing this bullshite. I skipped ahead just to make sure and I would have had to read almost 3/4 of the book to get this answer.

If the story wasn't so slow and the world building and writing had been better, I would have been able to overlook the BS with the Marco and Kersie. As it is though, this author's writing "style" is not for me. The endless similar names for people, places, things, ideas... grated on my nerves at best and was hard to follow. Has the author never heard of a "colonic treatment"? They clean out your colon with water. A tube is shoved up your rectum and water is forced in there to clear the leftover "waste". Thank the Lord I have never had the displeasure of such a procedure, but I know of its' existence. The fact that she has named an important and often times mentioned place "Kalonica", had me near giggles every time I heard it. Not good for a serious space opera.

There are a million and one characters and subplots. At least it felt that way. I didn't mind Tigo and his group, but in this book we get even more characters. At a quarter of the way through I was just learning about Eija and I already knew I didn't want to have to read her storyline. I didn't need another subplot to muddle of the story. I imagine if I had continued there would have been many more distractions from the main storyline.

The way Kendig describes certain things is confusing. At one point she describes someone as "mahogany". What in the world does that mean? Did she mean her skin color was like mahogany? If so that's weird considering the color is too red in almost every instance. Did she mean to say ebony?
I think Kendig is trying to write flowery prose, but it's not artful only confusing. I'm not a fan of the style anyway. Just give me a simple explanation so I can properly visualize the character.

If your hoping for a happy ending for Marco and Kersie as a couple, it's not going to happen. Maybe things drastically change in the next book, but for me the story ended with the first book.

[Tressa (Wishful Endings) · Rating 4 out of 5]

DAWN OF VENGEANCE follows just a few months after the first book, which ended on a bit of a cliffhanger. Readers will enjoy the extended world-building on Marco's home planet, the complex characters and the ever intensifying plot as forces work to bring war to their universe. With multiple points of view, the author gives readers different pieces of the puzzle until they all converge towards the climatic end. Fans of space opera and scifi will have much to love at this second installment in The Droseran Saga.

It took me a bit to remember what happened in the first book and where the first book left off at. The author gives hints here and there, which helped. It also helped that the story is both character and plot driven so that it was easy to get immersed in while reacquainting myself with the characters. The story moves at a good pace, with an underlying intensity from the first to the last page. I really liked these characters, particularly Marco, Isaura and Ixion. I also enjoyed the give and pull between familial, romantic, political, and friendly relationships. There is a lot going on, not only on Drosero, Marco's planet, but also in space, although most of the story focuses on the planet. I also really liked the direction things went and the choices that Marco ends up making and am looking forward to the third book, which can't come soon enough!

I did have a few qualms about the story. The romance at the beginning was too much. I literally wanted to roll my eyes. Under the situation, I just didn't know if I was okay with what was going on and the implications of the characters' desires and how they were acting when they're supposed to be leaders. They all came off as a bit immature and petulant. Plus, it's hard to fall in love with a couple and then have that relationship so drastically change. It honestly bothered me, especially as Kersei is this strong, independent woman and I felt she wasn't consistent in this book - like she lost who I thought she was from the first book. I actually ended up not really liking her here which only grew as the story went on, when I loved her in book one. So I was happy with the direction things ended up taking. I also had issues with how easy it seemed that raiders attacked and invaded, even where the reining kingdom should have had enough defenses to repel them. And how did that one raider get in and do what he did? Finally, there were just a few loose ends where there was emphasis in the story on certain people or things and then never resolved or even alluded to, such as Crey.

Once Marco leaves and tours his kingdom, things begin to develop pretty quickly. The last half of the story is almost non-stop with revelations and some quite a few climatic moments. I was on the edge of my seat and I honestly wanted to yell and shake some people. I've come to love these characters and despise others. I'm hoping the third book will wrap things up a bit more with the questions I still have.

In the end, was it what I wished for? I thoroughly enjoyed reading this! Even with a few qualms, this is an exciting series and I'm very much looking forward to the third book! Recommended to scifi and space opera fans!

Content: Some references to marital relations, innuendo and violence.
Source: I received a complimentary eARC through Celebrate Lit, but also purchased my own finished copy, either of which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Caroline Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawn of Vengeance, you have shattered me in the best possible way. This story gripped my emotions from the beginning and took me on a wild ride through the galaxy. It's predecessor, Brand of Light, built up to such a dramatic ending. But in retrospect, it was only the top of the roller coaster. In Dawn, we went flying down!

The characters. Kendig has created a diverse and vivid cast of characters. Honestly, it's her characters that I read for. Marco, Kersei, Isaura, Eija, Tigo, Jez, Darius, Reef! How I love them. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I laughed. I cried. I gasped. (Even slammed the book shut in some moments to try and process a plot twist!) These characters grew in so many ways, and I grew with them.

And the plot! My, oh my. Just when I thought I knew what was happening, the story took an unexpected turn, leaving me reeling again! The levels of suspense and intrigue in this space opera are out of this world (both literally and figuratively). I cannot recommend this book and series enough. Just go read it. You won't regret it. (Or maybe you will, when you spill all your emotions on the cold hard floor at the endings) But really, go read it. ;)

Kendig has created a breathtaking story centered on a diverse cast of characters that will grip your heart and take you on an unbelievable journey you won't soon forget.

[Ochegba · Rating 4 out of 5]

An all round thrilling and exciting tale. Picking up from where Brand of Light ends, this is Marco's story. It follows his journey, seeking answers to questions and wanting to know more.
It's more personal than Brand of Light but just as fast paced with lots of unexpected twists and turns.
There's growth and struggle and evil characters but you keep turning the pages with all the unanswered questions.
With the way the book ended, I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
Definitely for lovers of the unexpected, of Sci-Fi and of Ronie Kendig.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Celebrate Lit. All opinions expressed are solely mine.

[E.F. Buckles · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's always so hard to review the second book in a series, because I want to talk about it, but it feels like spoiling the first AND the second book to say too much! Well, I will try to say what I can without spoiling anything.

The first book, "Brand of Light" was filled with exciting twists and turns and then ended in a place where there was some resolution, but then other things happened that made it not really a happy ending so much as a "there is hope, but you have to wait and see how this gets worked out," ending. So, "Dawn of Vengeance" had a lot of stuff to work through and lot to live up to, but it did not disappoint me. Just like "Brand of Light" DoV kept me involved and excited the entire time, and does a great job giving you equal amounts of small, intrapersonal dramas, as well as overarching, galaxy-impacting, oh-my-goodness-how-are-they-going-to-get-out-of-this-alive drama! I enjoy a good book like this that makes my brain work and is just so well developed that I can really get immersed in the expansive world, and the drama, and the politics. Truly, I don't know how Kendig keeps all of this in her head!

I was a little worried about some of our characters after what happened in the first book, but (without spoilers) I like how Kendig has continued their stories. I actually wasn't sure I liked it at first, but by the end, I did. Kendig used much of this story to play with the expectations of both the readers and the characters. We thought we wanted things to end one way only to realize maybe we misinterpreted the information we had and there is another option that is just as good and satisfying. I think that's a good message, because in real life, we rarely have all the information, even though we often think we do, but God can surprise us by saying "You thought you knew what was best, you thought this was the only thing that would be satisfying, but I have something even better in store!"

In a similar vein, there were also new characters I wasn't sure at first how I felt about them, but ultimately liked. I don't think it's a spoiler to say that Isuara and her relationship with a certain character grew on me, when at first I thought, much like said certain character, that they *couldn't* end up together because that would ruin what I thought I was "supposed" to want to happen. But then I realized she and this character work really well together and she's a strong, honorable, smart, and humble woman, and now, I actually don't want to other scenario to play out the way I thought it would because I don't want anything to happen to Isuara!

I even found myself wanting the redemption of a character I thought wasn't redeemable and was glad that it seems they may get a second chance!

Truly, while the story in this series isn't overtly Christian (there are more Christian undertones than overt messages/symbolism/allegory, or anything like that) there's still a stark difference between the way this story is handled by a Christian author and how it might have been handled by a secular author. I've seen and heard of some secular series that would have been 100% okay with justifying morally questionable actions, so long as the characters who believe themselves "in love" end up "happy" in the end. But Kendig instead shows individuals CHOOSING to let go of what they thought would make them happy in order to honor the other person, honor a marriage, and CHOOSE to move on and eventually find something different than what they thought they wanted, but is actually just as good if not better than what they thought they wanted. It's difficult, it requires self sacrifice and putting someone else's needs above their own (what a stark contrast to our own culture where it's all about pleasing ourselves!), but it's right, and it's good. And as I said above, Kendig even takes us from wanting to see a man who did very wrong things get "what he deserves" to making us see that maybe he too can be redeemed and receive mercy instead.

My only quibble is that the story did have just a *smidgen* more hints at the physical relationship between a newly married couple than I personally would have preferred to have on the page. This series is very much intended for an adult audience, so this wasn't inappropriate in that regard, and was only a small part of a much bigger story, and never crossed the line of showing the couple doing "the act", but did feature a little bit of the lead-up. Overall, I've felt Kendig has kept a good balance between acknowledging that married couples have a physical relationship without going too far, but at the same time, let's just say that, had I written this book, I would have snipped out a little thing here and there just to hint a little LESS at it, if that makes sense? I would hold up Morgan Busse's "Flight of the Raven" as handling a newly married couple in a way I was more okay with. BUT Kendig also didn't give so much detail that I felt I shouldn't be reading it at all. It was simply closer the edge of my personal boundaries and preferences. I do suggest that those who may be concerned about such content check out my content advisory for more details to decide if this is right for you.

ANYWAY, once the story got past that, it got back into the twisty, turn-y adventure and drama I love and I still enjoyed the book as a whole.

I'm going to hold off on 5 stars until I know that I'm happy with the way the whole series wraps up, but I'm happy to give this individual book a solid 4 stars while screaming from the rooftops that I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!! XD

Content Advisory:

Violence:

The violence in this one is similar in description and intensity as book one. Some of the characters are being pursued by evil/insane/cursed beings who are said to slaughter many innocents with each attack, but the violence of said attacks are never described in extreme or gory detail. Mentions of blood are rare, and when it does get mentioned, it's brief. There is also brief mention of a decapitation, at least one neck snapping, and one throat slitting, all perpetrated upon evil attackers, but lacking extreme detail. It's more limited to statements of fact that these actions happened.

Mentions of the bodies of allies and enemies strewn on the ground during an ambush.

Many mentions of punching, kicking, sometimes cutting and stabbing with blades, and sometimes shooting with laser guns. Women and children are in peril several times.

A child gets killed from a wagon going over a cliff and there's mention of the limp body. A pregnant woman goes into labor after the accident and loses the baby, but the loss of the child happens off the page.

A woman who was long considered insane jumps off a building and kills herself even as someone is trying to rescue her from attackers. Brief mention of her body on the ground. (This same women is said to have previously tried to throw her own baby off a building because she thought it had an evil soul.)

Though not necessarily violent, there is one scene in which a character is about to have a translation-type device implanted into her body so she can understand the speech of an alien. She is meant to be unconscious for the procedure, but instead, experiences the phenomenon where she can't move or speak, but is aware of everything that is happening. There is mention of intense pain in her neck, and her panic at being conscious is described, but nothing beyond that is described.

Someone is killed (off the page) by an explosion. The deadly injuries on the body are described in one short sentence and there is mention blood floating in the zero-gravity environment. Mention (but no extreme description) of the burned skin and hair of another person.

Someone gets hit over the head while being kidnapped.

Sexual:

There did seem to be more romantic and sexual implications in this book than the last one. (Though book 1 was also not completely lacking in this area.) It never gets graphic, but there are quite a few vague references to sexual things.

One married man is insanely jealous and suspicious, and repeatedly accuses his wife of wanting to sexually cheat on him, or having cheated on him already (she doesn't want that and hasn't done it), and accuses another man of wanting to be the one his wife cheats with. (The two of them *are* struggling with lingering romantic feelings for each other since Man1 quite literally and suddenly forced this arranged marriage on the woman, but the woman and Man2 are moral people and trying to let go of the old feelings and honor the marriage since they couldn't stop it from happening.)

A woman sees a man shirtless (once, by accident, and the next while tending to him medically) and notices his muscles. Many mentions of attraction between an unmarried man and woman.

A married man notices his wife's curves.

Several kisses on the lips, some between married couples and one between an unmarried couple. A couple of the kisses are passionate and pretty described.

One kiss is considered by others to be the man having tarnished the woman's honor even though it didn't go any farther than a kiss.

There's a number of vague sexual references after a certain couple gets married, including someone questioning why the man hasn't "lain with" with his new wife yet. (This person is told firmly via being punched in the face that this is not his business.)

There is one sensual scene and one fade-to-black scene between a married couple. The sensual scene is limited to the couple in bed, clothed, talking (not about sexual things, but about life and some emotional things) and kissing, and gets interrupted before anything more can happen. The other scene starts the same way and fades to black before anything too sensitive happens, but it is stated frankly later that they "made love."

Spiritual:
As stated in my review of "Brand of Light" "The Ancient" seems to be what characters in this book universe call God. (There's another name Marco uses for The Ancient, but I'm blanking on it at the moment.) There aren't a lot of details about The Ancient, but the name gets referenced multiple times and sometimes prayed to.

There are also beings called "The Ladies." It's not super clear exactly what these all-female beings are and I don't feel that they're meant to have any real world comparison like how "The Ancient" seems to be the book world's version of God. It seems to me that they're simply meant to be totally fictional elements Kendig invented for her story world. But I'm mentioning them in the spiritual content section because, while they can appear humanoid to the point that they can marry humans, produce offspring, and some manage to go so "undercover" no one knows these women are "Ladies" unless and until they reveal themselves as such, they seem to have a powerful spiritual aspect as well, to the point of feeling almost angelic. (Tbh, there are a few times they almost feel similar in my mind to Tolkien's elves, specifically Galadriel, with the ability to marry humans but still be these super powerful beings.) They speak and fulfil prophecies, can communicate with people through visions and the like, etc. Some people (not everyone) worship them as if they are gods, while others seem to think they're almost like sirens, ensnaring men for their own purposes. (This rumor doesn't seem to be true. They're not very siren-like at all and if they marry it seems to be for love, not manipulation.) But the Ladies themselves occasionally make reference to The Ancient as being above them in power. Plus, the Ladies seem to be able to be killed, whereas "The Ancient" is not.

Whereas Marco's blue "brand" on his arm is a symbol of prophecy and gift from the "Ladies" there are evil characters called "raiders" that are punished for their evil by being given blue markings that burn and move under their skin. Every time they kill someone they get another burning mark.

A couple of good characters have prophetic visions, as well as visions sent from the Ladies trying to tell them to do something important before it's too late.

There is a religious sect known as the "Iereas". In the previous book we saw that they have temples, shave their heads, and dress a certain way. Some of them seem to worship both the Ancient and the Ladies, but some seem to only worship the Ancient. As with any religious organization, some of the Iereas are genuine about their faith and some are not. Some are outright corrupt. In this book, however, we only see one of these men, whom we met before. He is one of the uncorrupt Iereas and a friend of Marco's, and performs a coronation ceremony, marriage ceremony, and acts as advisor to a king and queen.

We again see Marco use his ability that he was given in the previous book, where he can touch someone and see, via the color of a light that appears in their eyes, whether or not their soul is good or corrupt.

A man wakes up and thinks he's died and gone to the afterlife to be punished because he's floating in a healing goo-like substance. (He's still very alive.)

Language:

Any and all "language" is made-up space swears, like "scuz" "slag" and "djell".

Other:

I hope this isn't a spoiler because it happened in the previous book and one assumes that if you're interested in book 2, you probably read book 1, but just in case, the following may qualify as a SPOILER
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In the previous book, there was some sci-fi freaky-ness when one character essentially got wired up to use his abilities to essentially power a machine. That happens again in this book, only more so. While not gross, per se, some may find the description of a human man with tubes and wires poking out of him disturbing (and it is meant to be so, because it is done by the villains and is obviously inhumane and evil.) There is some mention and description of his pain and the whole thing just sounds like a horrible experience.

Several mentions throughout the story of different individuals vomiting for various reasons.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Sometimes, we do not get what we want, and when something good and true does come along, we are blind to that ... treasure."

Ronie Kendig somehow brings it up a notch with every book that she writes. After finishing her Book of the Wars series, I didn't think she could stun me speechless again. After reading Brand of Light, the first book in this Droseran Saga, I didn't know what will happen next. I am indeed stunned speechless and absolutely floored by how the author has brought about another intricately layered and all-encompassing second book with more depth, more characters, and more emotion to this already incredible series (but I will try to form my words so that my review is coherent).

In this space opera sci fi, the planet of Drosero feels so real and the kingdom of Kalonica so tangible. Marco is adrift, extremely vulnerable, and emotional in this book - so different from how he was in the first book and more endearing as he shows this other side of himself. His pride gets whittled down but he also matures significantly. Kersei has a lesser role in this book while Ixion, an elder of Kalonica, has a bigger role. Introduction of new characters like Isaura and Eija is delightful and seeing old characters like Jez and Tigo is equally wonderful. The series needs to be read in order since subplots and details within the overarching theme of finding justice against evil are laid down one at a time and build upon each other. The book is a delectable combination of conspiracy, betrayal, intense action, military strategy, honor, loyalty, heady romance, and great wisdom that will bring thrilling anticipation to every reader.

This book has been on my most anticipated books of 2020 list and is now one of my top 20 reads for the year. If you're looking for a can't-put-down book of honor, duty, loss, grace, and redemption, look no further. It's a must-read book.

I received a copy of the book from Enclave Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

May 2022. Just finished rereading Dawn of Vengeance. It’s just as excellent a story the second time around.

Original review December 2020:
I don’t know why some books take me so long to read. I guess I just don’t want it to end so I take my time and savor it instead of inhaling it. Dawn of Vengeance was definitely a story I savored. And now I’ve finished and I don’t know what to do.

My brain is a computer processing... processing... processing.

Despite the fact that my heart and brain are still processing all that happened in this book, a few words to describe it would be: YOU NEED TO READ IT! (Just be sure to start with Brand of Light...it’s extremely important to know what happens in book 1 before reading book 2.)

A few more random thoughts about Dawn of Vengeance:

I love this story.
I hate this story.
I love-hate this story.
I can’t wait for the third book of the series.
Ronie is so mean.
Ronie is kind and generous too.
Ronie is an amazing storyteller.
Go read it.
The end.

[Mikal Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a hard review to write. Why? BECAUSE HOW MANY WAYS CAN A PERSON SAY THEY LOVED SOMETHING?!?

Ronie Kendig is FREAKISHLY BRILLIANT!!!!!! Ohmygoodness, I'm DYING. Seriously!!!! AMAZING!!!!! There was one character who had to work more than overtime to make me love them, but they completely won me over, and now all I want to do is pray for all these characters. 😂

Kendig is a must-read author for me. She hasn't ever bored me or ever let me down with her storylines, characterizations, tension, and excitement. This series is my absolute favourite of this year!!!

I received an early copy from the author with no expectation or requirement to review.

[Brynn The Book Nymph · Rating 4 out of 5]

The storyline is quite interesting and I’m curious about the aliens. I’m not a huge fan of the romance or descriptions of every female being relatively the same, but it is an adult space opera🤷‍♀️ Now to read Shadow of Honor....

[Joan · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is the second in a series and the first one, Brand of Light, must be read first to appreciate the characters and their interactions in this one.

The first novel in the series had many more space flight adventures and battles. This novel deals much more with brothers bickering and discussions and posing between characters and people groups. There is some action but it is interspersed with long scenes of relationship interaction. There is much more internal thinking and struggles in this novel than in the first one. Some of it seemed repetitive, such as the interactions between Kersei and Darius and definitely the conflict between Marco and Darius.

Kendig breaks one of Jerry Jenkins' rules for a good novel by naming several characters with the same first letter. There are Kersei, Kita, Kaveh, Kareh, Keril, Kyria, Kederac, Kakuzo, Krissos, Kynigos (people), kyria (wife/queen), Kedalion (place), Kardia (place), Kalonica (place), Kuru (place), and Khatriza (people). There are Iereas, Ixion, Isaura, Ikku, Irukandji (people), Iereania (place), Ironesse (place), and iereas (position). There are Darius, Dusan, Diggins, Deken, Domitas, Damocles (space ship), Dragoumis (people), Draegis (race), and Drosero (place), and Milek, Malika, Mnason, Myles, Maritza, Marco, Mavridis, Maur, Macedon (place/space ship), Moidia (place), Medora (position), Machitis (training), and Edrian, Eija, Elek, Echion, Edvian, Errant (position/title) and Eidolon (people). Some characters are referred to by two or more names, such as Achilus/Dusan/Marco, Kersie/Athina, and Mavridis/Ixion. It just made the narrative much harder to follow and appreciate. I have to admit, I was lost way too often. I felt bad for other letters in the alphabet too.

Kendig also uses a mix of English words and made up words. Warriors are aerios and regia, I think. Marriage is binding. An aetos is a bird, I think. A sergius is a servant, plural, sergii, I think. Adunatos in this novel is something revealed through a person's eyes and touch. The word is actually a Greek adjective used in the Bible. And uncommon words are used, like fetor for a strong foul smell. Yes, it is a regular English word but not a well known one. I found the use of a few made up words distracting.

Kendig's writing style is such that “light exploded” when a door opened and the light was “eclipsed” when a person walked through the door. (Loc 4739/8019) And then, “confused” irises. (Loc 6243/8019) Irises could reflect the person's confusion but are not themselves capable of being confused. Writing like that made me stop and read it over a couple of times.

The novel is experienced from the universal or narrative point of view. The character focus changes frequently as we experience the action and thoughts of Marcos and then, with a division mark, the thoughts and experiences of Isaura, then Kersei. The spiritual aspect of the novel is limited. An Ancient is mentioned as a divine being but that is not so much different from the Ladies, the deity honored on several planets. (Loc 6666/8019)

I grew up on science fiction and was looking forward to this series. While some really appreciate the plot and writing style of this novel, they are not my favorite.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Lauren Brandenburg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely extraordinary! Kendig has once again proven herself a victor in the realm of the space opera—brilliantly returning readers to a galaxy as captivating as her characters. The next book can't come soon enough!

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have absolutely no idea how I am going to do Dawn of Vengeance justice with my review, but I’m going to try my best. First, let’s start with this gorgeous cover! I absolutely love everything about it and it’s just perfect for the story inside!

Speaking of the story inside, Ronie Kendig has totally outdone herself!!! In fact, this series is shaping up to be my favorite series ever! What she has pulled off with this storyline and these characters is downright amazing! I can’t go into details because of spoilers. Seriously, this whole story is kind of one big spoiler! What I can say is through many parts of this story, I just kept asking myself, “What is happening here? How is she pulling this off?” I am literally amazed!!

I really wish I could go into spoiler territory, but since I can’t, I’ll talk about what I can. There are so many characters that I love in this story. Some we already know and others that are completely new to us. And some of these new characters have jumped up to become some of my favorites. I’m looking at you Isa! I really want to tell you all about her and her role in this story, but I’ll leave it at this - she is just a beautiful character and perfect for the part she gets to play. Then there’s Eija. I am so happy she’s in this story. I loved her determination and persistence. But, of course, Marco is still my favorite! He is pretty perfect and may just be my all time favorite male character!

The pacing and action in this story are both spot on! And the set up for the next story will leave you wanting book three now! Trust me, you need to read this series. It is brilliant! This is my favorite book of 2020, by far!

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm still in the recovery stage after finishing the book. I'll come back and leave a review when I can think clearly.

[M Shen · Rating 4 out of 5]

*runs around aimlessly*

I don't understand WHAT just happened, or HOW it could possibly happen, or WHY IT NEEDED TO HAPPEN. There cannot be an explanation for this

~ rtc when merie is back in commission ~

[Kim - Inside the Wong Mind · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawn of Vengeance
by Ronie Kendig
Book 2 in the Droseran Saga series
Rating: 5/5

I did not think it was possible but the Droseran Saga just keeps getting better and better. Dawn of Vengeance sweeps you away to a world that you don't want to leave making you wish the next book was already out. You will definitely want to read this book after reading first book, Brand of Light.

Your favorite hero is back! Marco is not just your hunter (Kynigos), but he is now the king (medora) of Kalonica. After embarking on a tour of his new country, he encounters more than he bargains for including meeting Isaura, a beautiful young lady who can makes him feel again after his heartbreak. Together they find that raiders are somehow equipped with banned technology and weapons which could mean war for their planet. Can Marco find out what's happening before it's too late?

Meanwhile there are other characters involved in this story but Marco is my favorite. lol. I really can't explain how hesitant I was to pick up this sequel and pray that it was as good as the first. However, I shouldn't have worried. I did not want to stop reading this saga - this space opera. It was thrilling to read and catch up with old and new characters. The author switches perspectives throughout to focus on different characters which works really well for this story.

Highly recommend for those who enjoy an exciting adventure in space and other worlds with clean romance and mystery.

My thanks to the publisher and CelebrateLit for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

My pitiful review probably doesn't matter, but wow.
Ronie Kendig shows once again that she is in a story telling class all the own.
Like master level.
Not kidding.
I have waited years for all the books in this series to be out because the ending of Brand wreaked me. And I am glad I did.
I think in this time I have mature as a reader, more willing to follow were this saga goes then fight how I want it to go.
Anyway!
Ronie has moved the events, introduced new characters that I was determined not to love and fell for them hook line and sinker. This book is a chunk but never feels drawn out too long. Never feels tedious. You are a different person by the time you finish this book.
It's so good. Good is too mild.
This is the level of writing and character crafting that sets the bar at ridiculous levels.
Diving into book 3 now!

[Necee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story is as awesome as this cover!

“Oh, but he is coming. With fire in his arms and war in his eyes. He is coming.”

A storyline that will capture you from beginning until the end, the second book in the Droseran Saga was a riveting rollercoaster ride. I absolutely love the cover of this book and Marco stole my heart! Marco’s path is forever changed after the ending of”Brand of Light” and his journeys from one end of his home planet to intergalactic galaxies will fully capture the imagination. I know it did mine! Adventure, romance, and the battle of good and evil continue to be out of this world with this suspenseful saga. I had no idea where this story was going. It was so good.

“I have been too focused on what I didn’t have to see what I did have, what was right in front of me—you.”

Marco kept my heart flipped inside out! New characters are brought into this series that will have your emotions all over the place. Secrets are laid bare that impact relationships in a way that may never recover. A stunningly solid second novel that has me begging for the next release, Kendig shines with her jump into the SciFi realm. This is a series not to be missed for all Kendig fans or those who love series that are out of this world. I’m not sure my heart will recover for awhile after reading this one, but I can’t wait to see where this saga will go.

This is my personal copy. I loved it so much, I can’t wait to receive the hard cover edition. I have given my honest opinion in this review.

[Kyliegh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was anxious going into this book after how the last one ended…and I shouldn’t have been. I absolutely loved it. This book had me hooked from the beginning. I’m not going to talk about it too much because I don’t want to give anything away. The plot is still moving forward at a quick pace. The romance was spectacular. We met some new people. Overall, I am loving this series and cannot wait to see what happens next! I’m obsessed. I keep switching back and forth from the audio and physical so I can continue the story while adulting.

[Andrew Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marco Dusan is now Medora of Kalonica, a position he never wanted. To make matters worse, the woman he is in love with, Kersei, was forced to marry his brother, and the two now live in the castle with him, a situation exacerbated by Marco’s unique gift that enhances his smell beyond normal senses. To avoid going mad, he decides to leave on a tour of his kingdom in an attempt to get away from Kersei’s scent, and also to better know the people he is to rule. And so begins a series of events that will lead to war.

Dawn of Vengeance opens with one of the more interesting characters from the first book, but unfortunately, his story seems to end with the first chapter. The reader is then brought back into the lives of Marco and Kersei, as well as a few new characters. Introducing new point-of-view characters as a series progresses from book to book can be risky, especially when the reader has come to love the characters whose perspectives they’ve already grown used to. That being said, Kendig does a good job here of making sure the reader does care about the new characters, to the point where some of the best-loved characters from the first book are nearly forgotten (at least in the sense of missing their perspectives). This may in part be why Kersei receives so little page time in this book, but that is not a bad thing. In fact, she becomes a much-less likeable character in this story, probably through no fault of her own or that of the author, but the book is certainly better for her lack of inclusion.

Certain events transpire throughout Dawn of Vengeance that may cause the reader to question the purpose of Kersei, even in the first book. In point of fact, there is much ado about the strange prophecy that she and Marco are a part of in Brand of Light that seems completely unrelated to anything that transpires in the second book. That is not to say that Marco’s side of the prophecy seems unrelated, but rather raises questions as to the need for Kersei to be a part of it. Perhaps this will be made clearer as the story progresses.

[SPOILER WARNING] As long as the topic is on Kersei, it should be noted that Marco receives a vision at the end of the first book, where it is presumed that he and Kersei are together, and that she carries his child. The vision gives him hope to press on, as well as allowing the reader to give a little forgiveness to the author for putting Kersei with Darius. That being said, in Dawn of Vengeance, Marco meets another woman, named Isaura. At first the reader might resent her a little bit, if they are set on Marco’s vision and shipping he and Kersei together. But, as the story progresses and Marco and Isaura grow in their attraction to one another, so too does the reader’s desire to see these two characters together. When Marco and Isaura get married, there is some shadow hanging over their union, the shadow of Marcus’ vision. He believes it was from the Ladies, a revered group of mythical warrior women, and as such, it must come to pass. At this point, however, neither Marco nor the reader wants such a thing to happen, so it will be hoped that the author uses the vision as a motivation for Marco when he was feeling his lowest rather than as a true vision of the future.

Something interesting about this series is how strongly pro-life it is, or rather, how strongly it portrays life beginning at conception. In the first book, after Kersei has been taken as Darius’ bound, Marco interacts with her the following morning. He was gifted by the Ladies with the ability to see the condition of a person’s soul when he looks them in the eyes, and in Kersei’s he sees both her soul and her child’s. [SPOILER ALERT] The same thing happens in Dawn of Vengeance after Marco and Isaura have made love (this is not graphically depicted), where Marco sees the soul of his daughter in Isaura’s eyes. That being said, it appears the author is making a statement about when life truly begins. It is a subtle nod to the value of unborn children, but there nonetheless.

The overarching plot here seems to be missing; that is to say, there are quite a few plotlines running through this book, and while Marco’s storyline seems to be the primary one, how they all fit together is still somewhat opaque. It is clear that Marco’s planet of Drosero is somehow wanted by the Symmachians, but why this is the case hasn’t really been expounded on yet, other than it is a strategic place for a Sentinel (a kind of hyper-gate). It could have something to do with the Ladies, as the reader will discover that there is far more to them in this story than one might have first thought. There is also the matter of Tigo, one of the Eidolon from the first book. Another character, Jez, tells him in Brand of Light that he doesn’t understand his importance, and yet in Dawn of Vengeance, he and the reader are still unclear as to what she meant. There is some chance that there will be more of his story told in the next book; the reader can hope, and perhaps then his role will be more thoroughly explored.

Kendig’s writing style can be a bit confusing and jarring at times, but once the reader is used to it, it flows well enough. She writes in a way that is fast-paced and action-oriented, but also abrupt. If the reader has gotten this far, they will probably stick around. All in all, Dawn of Vengeance is well-worth the read.