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Dark Maji #2
Blessed be the Wicked
Some will try to trap her in hopes of harnessing her dark power. Others will seek to end her, deeming it too terrible to risk.
In the end, he will destroy them all—because Quinn is his weapon, and he plans to keep it that way.
Lazarus was warned that Quinn’s power might be too great, even for him, but nothing prepared him for the truth of it until she held a dagger over him, and he was powerless to stop it. Now at odds with himself, the future king of Norcasta must find a way to regain control of his house and secure an alliance with the Pirate Queen...before fate tips its hand once more, and his carefully laid plans are led astray.
Quinn’s loyalty is not easily won, but Lazarus has managed to do it. Now the vassal and right-hand of Lord Fierté, Quinn seeks to gain him an alliance with Ilvas all the while challenging him at every turn. With the Cisean tribes won over, and the blood heirs behind them, Quinn expects this to be an easy task, but soon finds herself entangled in a web of lies.
Forced to gamble with her life—and the lives of her comrades—Quinn must make a choice that will either save or doom them all.
*Book three coming September of 2019. This series must be read in order.*
In the end, he will destroy them all—because Quinn is his weapon, and he plans to keep it that way.
Lazarus was warned that Quinn’s power might be too great, even for him, but nothing prepared him for the truth of it until she held a dagger over him, and he was powerless to stop it. Now at odds with himself, the future king of Norcasta must find a way to regain control of his house and secure an alliance with the Pirate Queen...before fate tips its hand once more, and his carefully laid plans are led astray.
Quinn’s loyalty is not easily won, but Lazarus has managed to do it. Now the vassal and right-hand of Lord Fierté, Quinn seeks to gain him an alliance with Ilvas all the while challenging him at every turn. With the Cisean tribes won over, and the blood heirs behind them, Quinn expects this to be an easy task, but soon finds herself entangled in a web of lies.
Forced to gamble with her life—and the lives of her comrades—Quinn must make a choice that will either save or doom them all.
*Book three coming September of 2019. This series must be read in order.*
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2019
606 people are currently reading
2895 people want to read
About the author
Kel Carpenter
71 books2,193 followersKel Carpenter is a master of werdz. When she’s not reading or writing, she’s traveling the world, lovingly pestering her co-author, and spending time with her family. She is always on the search for good tacos and the best pizza. She resides in Maryland and desperately tries to avoid the traffic.
For subrights or media and film inquiries, please reach out to kel@kelcarpenter.com.
For subrights or media and film inquiries, please reach out to kel@kelcarpenter.com.
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December 19, 2025
Blessed be the Wicked is the 2nd volume in Dark Maji Romantasy series. I enjoyed it, probably less than the 1st one. It wants to be dark, but it is not, not really. Hmm, I like the fact that the romance is slow and angsty. We have lust here, but nobody turns into a pool of mush over the sight of their beloved. So refreshing. The action was ok, I wanted a bit more thought into it. Also, the world building could be better. I am going to continue with the series, as I am curious about Quinn's secrets.
The names of the MCs are really stupid (i.e Quinn Darkova and Lazarus Fierte) and so are the quotes at the beginning of each chapter.
The names of the MCs are really stupid (i.e Quinn Darkova and Lazarus Fierte) and so are the quotes at the beginning of each chapter.
October 29, 2019
“Get angry, but in the end—get even.”
Perfectly addicting!
Quinn is probably one of my favorite heroines to date. Not sure I've adored anyone nearly as much as since Adelina from The Young Elites, but Quinn is at probably close to somewhere in that realm. And if you don't already know how much I loved Adelina maybe just read my review of The Midnight Star because, honestly, I poured my heart out in that review. But essentially that means she has my support for pretty much anything, always.
Anyways, this book picks up right where the previous one left off and furthers builds on the solid foundation already established in book one. We get more of everything. Sexual tension, darkness, friendship, politics, and intrigue.
Main Players:
Quinn {ғᴇᴀʀ ᴛᴡɪsᴛᴇʀ}
She'd never forget the sounds of their bones snapping and their screams echoing into the void. Something had changed in her that moment.
Because she’d never be able to go back now that she knew how much she craved it.
Quinn is a magnificently dark queen. An anti-heroine you cannot help but root for. She doesn't go looking for trouble, but when trouble finds her she has no issues beating it into the ground and making it regret crossing her. She does not mince words. She is powerful and wicked, and she is not ashamed for it in the slightest.
"To show you that should I have wanted you dead - they would have never known. I could make them see and feel whatever I want. I could make myself invisible to all. I could kill you now, and not one of them could stop me," she said.
Imogen's lips pinched together.
"Is that a threat?"
"No," Quinn answered. "It's simply the truth. If I, or Lord Fierte, wanted you dead, you would be. And they certainly would not have caught me."
Lazarus {sᴏᴜʟ ᴇᴀᴛᴇʀ}
“Risks abound, Draeven. So long as the blood pumps through my veins, there will never be a moment of peace. Risk is what the world runs on; it is what people like me thrive on. It there is a risk too great for me - in N'skara of all places - then perhaps I don't deserve to be crown king.”
He turned abruptly and fixed Draeven with a stare.
“But there isn’t, there won’t be, and I will be King. Through blood and fire, I will remake this world, Draeven. Make no mistake. There is no man nor creature that can do what I will.”
Lazarus is the perfect anti-hero to Quinn's anti-heroine. Think like, Batman and Catwoman. They're both deliciously dark and calculating, with plenty of secrets and dangerous ambitions. Lazarus is not a good man. He knows that. He thrives on both control and chaos. And he puts his own desires and ambitions above everything and everyone else. But at the very least, he was the decency to make things plainly clear to all those involved.
Draeven {ʀᴀɢᴇ ᴛʜᴇɪғ}
A man of good character, but questionable judgment.
Axe
A pirate princess in way over her head.
Imogen
A self-made queen who always protects what is hers and has no issue taking a knife to those who seek to betray her.
Relationships:
Quinn & Lazarus
The one woman in this world that could best him—and the one woman that he couldn’t deny himself. He took her from a prison cell and made her his—even if only in contract.
-
“You crave control as much as you crave me.” Her voice was husky with desire as she arched into him. “Oh, but you wish you didn’t.” She laughed, and it was the sound of that hoarse chuckle that was his undoing.
I mean that's not really what happens but the push and pull between these two make me feel some kind of way. They understand each other on such a fundamental level, with very little words needed and it's magnificent.
Quinn & Draevan
"She was the one with me when I was poisoned," Imogen pointed out.
...
"If you think Quinn is the type of woman to kill someone by poison, then you obviously don't understand her."
I am so happy at how far these two have come. Where the first book we saw their mutual distaste for one another, what with Draevan not trusting her and Quinn thinking him an overly friendly idiot, in this installment we find them developing a sort of understanding. Neither of them would likely admit it, but I see a lovely friendship forming.
Quinn & Vaughn
"You should do as she-wolf Quinn asks," Vaughn says.
Lazarus sent the man a scathing glance, but Vaughn did not heed the warning Lazarus intended.
"She will take care of this," he said with a nod. "We let her."
"I'm surprised you'd say that," Draeven commented. "Aren't your people more protective of their women?"
"She-wolf Quinn cannot be caged," Vaughn replied. "She is like animal. Wild. Untamed."
We don't get a lot of them in this book. But Vaugh's complete and utter faith in Quinn is so sweet. Plus he makes Lazarus jealous all the time so that's very amusing.
Lorraine & Dominicus
So turns out I was not just imagining it in the first book, these two do have something going on. And it seems Raine really brings out the softer side of this prickly man.
*More detailed review to come*
---
I love that the authors provided a series list at the end of book one.
The Dark Maji Series:
Fortune Favors the Cruel (Book One)
Blessed be the Wicked (Book Two)
Twisted is the Crown (Book Three)
For King and Corruption (Book Four)
Untitled (Book Five)
Perfectly addicting!
Quinn is probably one of my favorite heroines to date. Not sure I've adored anyone nearly as much as since Adelina from The Young Elites, but Quinn is at probably close to somewhere in that realm. And if you don't already know how much I loved Adelina maybe just read my review of The Midnight Star because, honestly, I poured my heart out in that review. But essentially that means she has my support for pretty much anything, always.
Anyways, this book picks up right where the previous one left off and furthers builds on the solid foundation already established in book one. We get more of everything. Sexual tension, darkness, friendship, politics, and intrigue.
Main Players:
Quinn {ғᴇᴀʀ ᴛᴡɪsᴛᴇʀ}
She'd never forget the sounds of their bones snapping and their screams echoing into the void. Something had changed in her that moment.
Because she’d never be able to go back now that she knew how much she craved it.
Quinn is a magnificently dark queen. An anti-heroine you cannot help but root for. She doesn't go looking for trouble, but when trouble finds her she has no issues beating it into the ground and making it regret crossing her. She does not mince words. She is powerful and wicked, and she is not ashamed for it in the slightest.
"To show you that should I have wanted you dead - they would have never known. I could make them see and feel whatever I want. I could make myself invisible to all. I could kill you now, and not one of them could stop me," she said.
Imogen's lips pinched together.
"Is that a threat?"
"No," Quinn answered. "It's simply the truth. If I, or Lord Fierte, wanted you dead, you would be. And they certainly would not have caught me."
Lazarus {sᴏᴜʟ ᴇᴀᴛᴇʀ}
“Risks abound, Draeven. So long as the blood pumps through my veins, there will never be a moment of peace. Risk is what the world runs on; it is what people like me thrive on. It there is a risk too great for me - in N'skara of all places - then perhaps I don't deserve to be crown king.”
He turned abruptly and fixed Draeven with a stare.
“But there isn’t, there won’t be, and I will be King. Through blood and fire, I will remake this world, Draeven. Make no mistake. There is no man nor creature that can do what I will.”
Lazarus is the perfect anti-hero to Quinn's anti-heroine. Think like, Batman and Catwoman. They're both deliciously dark and calculating, with plenty of secrets and dangerous ambitions. Lazarus is not a good man. He knows that. He thrives on both control and chaos. And he puts his own desires and ambitions above everything and everyone else. But at the very least, he was the decency to make things plainly clear to all those involved.
Draeven {ʀᴀɢᴇ ᴛʜᴇɪғ}
A man of good character, but questionable judgment.
Axe
A pirate princess in way over her head.
Imogen
A self-made queen who always protects what is hers and has no issue taking a knife to those who seek to betray her.
Relationships:
Quinn & Lazarus
The one woman in this world that could best him—and the one woman that he couldn’t deny himself. He took her from a prison cell and made her his—even if only in contract.
-
“You crave control as much as you crave me.” Her voice was husky with desire as she arched into him. “Oh, but you wish you didn’t.” She laughed, and it was the sound of that hoarse chuckle that was his undoing.
I mean that's not really what happens but the push and pull between these two make me feel some kind of way. They understand each other on such a fundamental level, with very little words needed and it's magnificent.
Quinn & Draevan
"She was the one with me when I was poisoned," Imogen pointed out.
...
"If you think Quinn is the type of woman to kill someone by poison, then you obviously don't understand her."
I am so happy at how far these two have come. Where the first book we saw their mutual distaste for one another, what with Draevan not trusting her and Quinn thinking him an overly friendly idiot, in this installment we find them developing a sort of understanding. Neither of them would likely admit it, but I see a lovely friendship forming.
Quinn & Vaughn
"You should do as she-wolf Quinn asks," Vaughn says.
Lazarus sent the man a scathing glance, but Vaughn did not heed the warning Lazarus intended.
"She will take care of this," he said with a nod. "We let her."
"I'm surprised you'd say that," Draeven commented. "Aren't your people more protective of their women?"
"She-wolf Quinn cannot be caged," Vaughn replied. "She is like animal. Wild. Untamed."
We don't get a lot of them in this book. But Vaugh's complete and utter faith in Quinn is so sweet. Plus he makes Lazarus jealous all the time so that's very amusing.
Lorraine & Dominicus
So turns out I was not just imagining it in the first book, these two do have something going on. And it seems Raine really brings out the softer side of this prickly man.
*More detailed review to come*
---
I love that the authors provided a series list at the end of book one.
The Dark Maji Series:
Fortune Favors the Cruel (Book One)
Blessed be the Wicked (Book Two)
Twisted is the Crown (Book Three)
For King and Corruption (Book Four)
Untitled (Book Five)
October 28, 2020
4 Stars
More of a filler book so it was a bit repetitive at times, and I skimmed over some of it, but despite that I still really enjoyed it, and I'm hoping we actually get somewhere in the next book. I'm also loving the H and h's "relationship" so far!
More of a filler book so it was a bit repetitive at times, and I skimmed over some of it, but despite that I still really enjoyed it, and I'm hoping we actually get somewhere in the next book. I'm also loving the H and h's "relationship" so far!
July 11, 2019
4.5.
I absolutely adored the first book and this was a good continuation.
Quinn continues to an absolute awesome bad ass. She's one of the my favourite main characters in a book this year, maybe only topped by Iris from Myra Danver's Delerium. Quinn gives zero fucks and I admire that it a protagonist. She's also insanely powerful and slightly unhinged, causing possibly the most dangerous man in the world to be wary of her.
The plot focuses on Lazarus trying to win over the Pirate Queen as he attempts to secure an alliance with the ogbef realms before fighting for his throne. There are some cool new characters (I enjoyed Axe) and some attempted murder intrigue.
I continue to absolutely adore the sexual tension between Quinn and Lazarus. It is downright delicious. However, I rounded down and not up as I would have ideally liked to see a bit more development 9n that front. Lazarus is dragging his heels, despite not being able to leave her alone, which was a tad frustrating. But I just know when they do finally get together it's going to be amazing!
Highly recommend this series. Its one of my favourites this year!
I absolutely adored the first book and this was a good continuation.
Quinn continues to an absolute awesome bad ass. She's one of the my favourite main characters in a book this year, maybe only topped by Iris from Myra Danver's Delerium. Quinn gives zero fucks and I admire that it a protagonist. She's also insanely powerful and slightly unhinged, causing possibly the most dangerous man in the world to be wary of her.
The plot focuses on Lazarus trying to win over the Pirate Queen as he attempts to secure an alliance with the ogbef realms before fighting for his throne. There are some cool new characters (I enjoyed Axe) and some attempted murder intrigue.
I continue to absolutely adore the sexual tension between Quinn and Lazarus. It is downright delicious. However, I rounded down and not up as I would have ideally liked to see a bit more development 9n that front. Lazarus is dragging his heels, despite not being able to leave her alone, which was a tad frustrating. But I just know when they do finally get together it's going to be amazing!
Highly recommend this series. Its one of my favourites this year!
February 27, 2021
2.5/5
BR with the lovely Maraya:)
-------------
This is the sequel to Fortune Favors the Cruel. I liked this one less than the first book mainly because this one felt like filler. That isn’t to say I hated the book (I actually read it pretty quickly), but it wasn’t nearly as engrossing.
To explain, we start right where we left off in the previous book from what I remember. There is a battle, someone in the party is injured, and then the Queen shows up demanding why they shed blood on her land. The rest of the book is them waiting for a meeting with the Queen to discuss an alliance, Lazarus and Quinn being all tense and broody, and then a short distraction that was predictable and a bit boring in my opinion.
My main issue with this book is that everything felt lackluster. The characters don’t show growth or change of heart, the setting/world is pretty much left to our imagination, and the supposed romance between Quinn and Lazarus isn’t even romance (it’s just tense). The story itself is interesting, which is why I kept reading. I want to know if Lazarus will truly be King, if Quinn will get her revenge (and what does her revenge entail?), and if there will be any epic battles for the throne.
Also, a few things became increasingly obvious to me as I read this book. Those being that literally every character other than Lazarus and Quinn have little to no meaning in the book until they are needed to cause tension or some sort of issue for our two main characters. I also couldn’t tell two of them apart for a good portion of the book. Also, Vaughn is barely present? He was my favourite:(
Overall, this book felt like it was building up something for the next one, and thus had very little development in itself. It was still a quick read for me, but I’m not sure I want to continue the series.
Twitter || Blog
BR with the lovely Maraya:)
-------------
This is the sequel to Fortune Favors the Cruel. I liked this one less than the first book mainly because this one felt like filler. That isn’t to say I hated the book (I actually read it pretty quickly), but it wasn’t nearly as engrossing.
To explain, we start right where we left off in the previous book from what I remember. There is a battle, someone in the party is injured, and then the Queen shows up demanding why they shed blood on her land. The rest of the book is them waiting for a meeting with the Queen to discuss an alliance, Lazarus and Quinn being all tense and broody, and then a short distraction that was predictable and a bit boring in my opinion.
My main issue with this book is that everything felt lackluster. The characters don’t show growth or change of heart, the setting/world is pretty much left to our imagination, and the supposed romance between Quinn and Lazarus isn’t even romance (it’s just tense). The story itself is interesting, which is why I kept reading. I want to know if Lazarus will truly be King, if Quinn will get her revenge (and what does her revenge entail?), and if there will be any epic battles for the throne.
Also, a few things became increasingly obvious to me as I read this book. Those being that literally every character other than Lazarus and Quinn have little to no meaning in the book until they are needed to cause tension or some sort of issue for our two main characters. I also couldn’t tell two of them apart for a good portion of the book. Also, Vaughn is barely present? He was my favourite:(
Overall, this book felt like it was building up something for the next one, and thus had very little development in itself. It was still a quick read for me, but I’m not sure I want to continue the series.
Twitter || Blog
April 29, 2024
This was a solid sequel to an OK slow burn romantasy series. The series offers mystery, some intrigue, plenty of action, hints of slow burn romance, and cool dark magic.
This instalment felt like a bottle episode of a TV show. Quinn, Lazarus, and the rest of Lazarus’s followers pitched up in a new kingdom as Lazarus continued his quest to make allies to strengthen his claim on his own throne. This time he had to win over a Pirate Queen…which proved more difficult than he anticipated!
It was an OK story. We got some progress in the Lazarus/Quinn romance but it is still pretty slow burn. Not that I’m too bothered by that development. I like both of them well enough as individual characters but I’m still not feeling any real chemistry between them as a couple!
The new kingdom we visited was interesting enough. We got a bit of intrigue and a hard to win over potential ally.
I’m warming to the secondary characters the more I read of this series which is good as I was unsure of them for a lot of the first book.
All in all this was OK. I’m not sure if I’ll read more or not. I got the first two books via the Audible Plus Catalog but I actually have to spend precious credits on the rest of the series and a full credit on a 6.5 hour third book that will likely be a plain old 3 star read does not seem great value to me. I might pause this series for now and return if it pops up on sale or in the Plus Catalog at some point.
Rating: 3 stars.
Audio Note: The narration by Amy McFadden was solid.
This instalment felt like a bottle episode of a TV show. Quinn, Lazarus, and the rest of Lazarus’s followers pitched up in a new kingdom as Lazarus continued his quest to make allies to strengthen his claim on his own throne. This time he had to win over a Pirate Queen…which proved more difficult than he anticipated!
It was an OK story. We got some progress in the Lazarus/Quinn romance but it is still pretty slow burn. Not that I’m too bothered by that development. I like both of them well enough as individual characters but I’m still not feeling any real chemistry between them as a couple!
The new kingdom we visited was interesting enough. We got a bit of intrigue and a hard to win over potential ally.
I’m warming to the secondary characters the more I read of this series which is good as I was unsure of them for a lot of the first book.
All in all this was OK. I’m not sure if I’ll read more or not. I got the first two books via the Audible Plus Catalog but I actually have to spend precious credits on the rest of the series and a full credit on a 6.5 hour third book that will likely be a plain old 3 star read does not seem great value to me. I might pause this series for now and return if it pops up on sale or in the Plus Catalog at some point.
Rating: 3 stars.
Audio Note: The narration by Amy McFadden was solid.
November 21, 2021
Deadly.
Potent.
Delicious.
Evil.
Twisted.
Dark.
This story and Quinn was all that mentioned above and more!! I AM LOVING THIS BOOK SERIES! 😍🖤🖤✨
“Get angry, but in the end—get even.”
For a person like me, who loves depravity, madness and ferocity in the heroines she reads about.....Quinn Darkova was a stunning treat. 😈 She operated in shadows just like her Maji powers. She took over my heart with her cruelty and calculated calm so she's definitely there in my book girlfriends harem☠️🖤🖤😏
She’d never be like the rest of them.
It wasn’t her power alone that made it so, but something inside her that, like him, couldn’t help but crave the chaos.
Some people thought it a pit of despair.
For some, it was.
But for an even smaller number of persons, chaos was life. There was order in the disorder. A method to the madness. In the confusion, some found themselves and even fewer found something far more precious.
Purpose.
And Lazarus!! Holy Gods, he was fire to Quinn's ice. Just the intensity and intelligence of that man had me swooning over him, I don't know what'll happen when he reveals his sexual prowess lol. I was in total awe of his mind though. He was the picture of tall, dark and handsome....plus calm, controlled and calculated. Do I even need to say more?!!🔥🔥💀💀🖤
“Cautious men are living men. It is the heroes that don’t survive war.”
But!!😏 There was a new character in this book that somehow managed to outshine Lazarus in savagery. Axe was....she was ....okay I don't have any words to describe her. 😈 Imagine Harley Quinn as a teen pirate and I think we've got Axe's personality to a T. She made me laugh so much while reading, I absolutely adored her.
“Can we roast him?” Axe asked.
Imogen shot her daughter an amused but reproachful glance. “We’re pirates, Tesora, not cannibals.”
Quinn frowned as Axe crossed her arms, turning to face Zorel alongside her mother. She pouted even now, sullen at the idea of not getting to eat him.
What a strange child . . .
That was just a small glimpse of Axe😆 Quinn's and Axe's scenes together were the best though. I don't think I have been amused so much my entire life. 😛
“There are no absolutes in life. Even truths can change based on a differing perspective.”
Onto the next book now! Let's see how N'skara fares for this amazing crew 🖤
For someone that doesn’t value their soul, you don’t want to lose it.”
Potent.
Delicious.
Evil.
Twisted.
Dark.
This story and Quinn was all that mentioned above and more!! I AM LOVING THIS BOOK SERIES! 😍🖤🖤✨
“Get angry, but in the end—get even.”
For a person like me, who loves depravity, madness and ferocity in the heroines she reads about.....Quinn Darkova was a stunning treat. 😈 She operated in shadows just like her Maji powers. She took over my heart with her cruelty and calculated calm so she's definitely there in my book girlfriends harem☠️🖤🖤😏
She’d never be like the rest of them.
It wasn’t her power alone that made it so, but something inside her that, like him, couldn’t help but crave the chaos.
Some people thought it a pit of despair.
For some, it was.
But for an even smaller number of persons, chaos was life. There was order in the disorder. A method to the madness. In the confusion, some found themselves and even fewer found something far more precious.
Purpose.
And Lazarus!! Holy Gods, he was fire to Quinn's ice. Just the intensity and intelligence of that man had me swooning over him, I don't know what'll happen when he reveals his sexual prowess lol. I was in total awe of his mind though. He was the picture of tall, dark and handsome....plus calm, controlled and calculated. Do I even need to say more?!!🔥🔥💀💀🖤
“Cautious men are living men. It is the heroes that don’t survive war.”
But!!😏 There was a new character in this book that somehow managed to outshine Lazarus in savagery. Axe was....she was ....okay I don't have any words to describe her. 😈 Imagine Harley Quinn as a teen pirate and I think we've got Axe's personality to a T. She made me laugh so much while reading, I absolutely adored her.
“Can we roast him?” Axe asked.
Imogen shot her daughter an amused but reproachful glance. “We’re pirates, Tesora, not cannibals.”
Quinn frowned as Axe crossed her arms, turning to face Zorel alongside her mother. She pouted even now, sullen at the idea of not getting to eat him.
What a strange child . . .
That was just a small glimpse of Axe😆 Quinn's and Axe's scenes together were the best though. I don't think I have been amused so much my entire life. 😛
“There are no absolutes in life. Even truths can change based on a differing perspective.”
Onto the next book now! Let's see how N'skara fares for this amazing crew 🖤
For someone that doesn’t value their soul, you don’t want to lose it.”
July 8, 2024
"Blessed Be the Wicked" continues the thrilling saga of Quinn Darkova and her tumultuous journey through a world filled with magic and danger. Quinn's growth, coupled with intricate plot twists and rich world-building, keeps the story fresh and engaging. This installment delves deeper into the complex relationships and dark secrets that define the series. It’s quite entertaining and a great read 👌
4.25-4.5 ⭐️’s
4.25-4.5 ⭐️’s
October 14, 2021
I tell you what, I couldn’t stop reading this series because of the heroine! 😍
February 15, 2020
Blog | Twitter | Instagram
Another great book in this series.
I can't say that the sequel is better than the first one because it took so long for me to be interested in what's going on. Most of it has something to do with how nothing important is actually happening in the first half of the book. But it's soon disappeared when troubles kicked in.
As soon as it happened, I was totally engrossed with the well-written story. Quinn being a badass as always showed everyone what she's truly capable of. In her cruel and wicked but amazing way, of course. I was digging it! Though I knew the real enemy is yet to be revealed, I felt a little disappointment when the issue was easily handled by Quinn.Guess I was just craving for more violence.
In this book, I had the pleasure of exploring the new part of the world and another kingdom. To be introduced to the Pirate Queen was fascinating. She's as brave and powerful as everyone said. I love how there were so many strong and lovely women in this series!
As for the other characters, I'm delighted to have the chance to know more of them.
Draeven is still my favorite, aside from Quinn. There was a little part where I got to know him before his life as House Fierté vassal. Oh, and there were a couple of chapters that were told from his POV. I hope I'd get more in the next book!
Lazarus was the same complicated and mysterious man as before. Though after what happened in this book, I begin to see that he wasn't some mere nobleman and dark maji.
Lorraine was still sweet and caring. I really hope she'll be okay until the end.
Vaughn caught my attention this time. I was blind to see how kind and sincere he is.
And here's a new addition to the crew, meet Axe everyone! She was a unique, curious, and strong girl. I'm excited to follow her development throughout the series!
Overall, I enjoyed Blessed be the Wicked. It was filled with action, magic, hot sizzling sexual tension, and secrets. I'm actually thorn between rating this book 3 or 4 stars. But I think, even though it was slow-paced in the beginning, the other half of the story was worth it. I can't wait to read the third book!
Another great book in this series.
I can't say that the sequel is better than the first one because it took so long for me to be interested in what's going on. Most of it has something to do with how nothing important is actually happening in the first half of the book. But it's soon disappeared when troubles kicked in.
As soon as it happened, I was totally engrossed with the well-written story. Quinn being a badass as always showed everyone what she's truly capable of. In her cruel and wicked but amazing way, of course. I was digging it! Though I knew the real enemy is yet to be revealed, I felt a little disappointment when the issue was easily handled by Quinn.
In this book, I had the pleasure of exploring the new part of the world and another kingdom. To be introduced to the Pirate Queen was fascinating. She's as brave and powerful as everyone said. I love how there were so many strong and lovely women in this series!
As for the other characters, I'm delighted to have the chance to know more of them.
Draeven is still my favorite, aside from Quinn. There was a little part where I got to know him before his life as House Fierté vassal. Oh, and there were a couple of chapters that were told from his POV. I hope I'd get more in the next book!
Lazarus was the same complicated and mysterious man as before. Though after what happened in this book, I begin to see that he wasn't some mere nobleman and dark maji.
Lorraine was still sweet and caring. I really hope she'll be okay until the end.
Vaughn caught my attention this time. I was blind to see how kind and sincere he is.
And here's a new addition to the crew, meet Axe everyone! She was a unique, curious, and strong girl. I'm excited to follow her development throughout the series!
Overall, I enjoyed Blessed be the Wicked. It was filled with action, magic, hot sizzling sexual tension, and secrets. I'm actually thorn between rating this book 3 or 4 stars. But I think, even though it was slow-paced in the beginning, the other half of the story was worth it. I can't wait to read the third book!
June 10, 2022
I am really enjoying this series. Review to come.
Audio version
Audio version
February 27, 2026
i was so ready to DNF at 92% when the MC started quoting captain jack sparrow
August 18, 2019
Whew this series continues to keep me enthralled. Not only does it have an interesting and unique world/backstory/magic concept, I love this FMC. There is something going on here, something that has just barely been hinted at, I can't quite grasp it yet though I'm working on some ideas but I'm totally hooked as well as bound and determined to find some answers. There is nothing quite like a clever author that not only sucks a reader into their world but makes them a part of it by leaving little clues here and there. It makes all the difference between a reader, just reading a story, and a reader being really involved. Add this to a dark plot that is slowly revealing itself, characters that dabble more in gray areas than not, and mysteries piled on mysteries as to what this world hasn't yet revealed and you just have an instant hit with me.
We find ourselves all up in some drama in the pirate nation as the plot thickens. Waiting on an audience with the queen we become involved in a plot to drive a wedge between us and our new allies. The chemistry between Lazarus and Quinn continues to build. Quinn has some odd qualities for a person, she is kind of dry at times, almost naive but its not naivety, incredibly honesty.. she is almost alien in her observances and thoughts. I just really love her. We finally get some sneak peaks in Quinns past, not enough at all, but some hints at mystery. Quinn grows even stronger with her fear magic.
I was left with a ton of excitement and anticipation as well as this almost foreboding "oh what have we wrought" type feeling. As we slowly add characters to our group I am loving all the personality differences. Our newest addition Axe.. cheeky chit that she is. I can't wait to find out if any of my theories are correct or if I'm way off base.. September.. still so far away!
We find ourselves all up in some drama in the pirate nation as the plot thickens. Waiting on an audience with the queen we become involved in a plot to drive a wedge between us and our new allies. The chemistry between Lazarus and Quinn continues to build. Quinn has some odd qualities for a person, she is kind of dry at times, almost naive but its not naivety, incredibly honesty.. she is almost alien in her observances and thoughts. I just really love her. We finally get some sneak peaks in Quinns past, not enough at all, but some hints at mystery. Quinn grows even stronger with her fear magic.
I was left with a ton of excitement and anticipation as well as this almost foreboding "oh what have we wrought" type feeling. As we slowly add characters to our group I am loving all the personality differences. Our newest addition Axe.. cheeky chit that she is. I can't wait to find out if any of my theories are correct or if I'm way off base.. September.. still so far away!
August 30, 2019
Lazarus and Quinn are guests of the Pirate Queen. Lazarus wants to form an alliance with the Queen, but can't get an audience with her. Quinn is her typical self - she bluntly says what she thinks and puts people on edge, which is probably what leads her to be framed for a crime. This puts Lazarus and his household in a precarious position. Quinn must clear her name and put things to right with regards to their real purpose for being there.
I'm loving this series. The dark maji are interesting characters. Add in the delicious tension created by Lazarus's need for control and Quinn's wild spirit, and what's not to like? I think things are about to get really interesting between them and with regards to where they are traveling next - Quinn's homeland. I'm excited to see what happens.
I'm loving this series. The dark maji are interesting characters. Add in the delicious tension created by Lazarus's need for control and Quinn's wild spirit, and what's not to like? I think things are about to get really interesting between them and with regards to where they are traveling next - Quinn's homeland. I'm excited to see what happens.
January 18, 2022
Book 2 brings us new characters including a female, teenage pirate that is an heir to a throne (I'm here for that).
Some questions were answered for both Lazarus and Quinn (although more keep popping up).
Quinn's black heart is showing (minimal) softening at the edges for some of Lazarus' crew.
Minimal spice
A tad more violence than book 1.
Some questions were answered for both Lazarus and Quinn (although more keep popping up).
Quinn's black heart is showing (minimal) softening at the edges for some of Lazarus' crew.
Minimal spice
A tad more violence than book 1.
January 15, 2021
A strong book, albeit slow. This book falls into the dreaded sand pit that is the second-book-slump. The characters all get moving, we are all thirsty for Quinn and Lazarus, and then....we wait around and deal with subterfuge for 300 pages.
Now, the quality of writing: still stellar.
Quinn: deliciously bad-ass.
Lazarus...I’m a little ‘meh” about, if only because we only read about how drawn he is to Quinn without ever knowing(outright) why that is. Evil likes evil...I get *that* and yes..he wants to insert Tab A into Quinn’s Slot B.
But why can she feel his emotions and why do his souls want her so badly? In this instance, I don’t feel like the excuse of “evil magic-n-stuff” is a good enough explanation. Perhaps we get this later on in the books, but the reader has NO IDEA what Lazarus’s backstory is—not a damn hint. He’s this entirely opaque character at the moment, which doesn’t bode well for feeling all the feelings about he and Quinn as a reader.
If I had to put a number rating, it’d be 3.75 for this book. Still solid, BUT, Quinn continues to be the same: steadfast, powerful, strong, whip-smart, cruel and cunning, and she hasn’t really changed at all from the first page of the first book. And, I hate to say it, but it’s pretty boring. I want her to stumble. I want her to fall. I want her to break. (Maybe I’m the one that’s evil?).
Where is the character growth? What does Quinn have to overcome, personally? I don’t feel there is a real self-conflict in this book or in the series so far. With Lazarus? Yes, he’s conflicted, as he is trying to keep away from Quinn because, I guess, he’s afraid he’ll eat her soul. But Quinn just seems happy to toy with Lazarus, and with the rest of the world, as if she’s holding out a string and they are all batting at it like insane cats. Overall, I feel as if we’re plodding forward toward something with this plot, but along the way the characters themselves aren’t having to face inner demons or overcome personal obstacles much at all.
Now, the quality of writing: still stellar.
Quinn: deliciously bad-ass.
Lazarus...I’m a little ‘meh” about, if only because we only read about how drawn he is to Quinn without ever knowing(outright) why that is. Evil likes evil...I get *that* and yes..he wants to insert Tab A into Quinn’s Slot B.
But why can she feel his emotions and why do his souls want her so badly? In this instance, I don’t feel like the excuse of “evil magic-n-stuff” is a good enough explanation. Perhaps we get this later on in the books, but the reader has NO IDEA what Lazarus’s backstory is—not a damn hint. He’s this entirely opaque character at the moment, which doesn’t bode well for feeling all the feelings about he and Quinn as a reader.
If I had to put a number rating, it’d be 3.75 for this book. Still solid, BUT, Quinn continues to be the same: steadfast, powerful, strong, whip-smart, cruel and cunning, and she hasn’t really changed at all from the first page of the first book. And, I hate to say it, but it’s pretty boring. I want her to stumble. I want her to fall. I want her to break. (Maybe I’m the one that’s evil?).
Where is the character growth? What does Quinn have to overcome, personally? I don’t feel there is a real self-conflict in this book or in the series so far. With Lazarus? Yes, he’s conflicted, as he is trying to keep away from Quinn because, I guess, he’s afraid he’ll eat her soul. But Quinn just seems happy to toy with Lazarus, and with the rest of the world, as if she’s holding out a string and they are all batting at it like insane cats. Overall, I feel as if we’re plodding forward toward something with this plot, but along the way the characters themselves aren’t having to face inner demons or overcome personal obstacles much at all.
November 2, 2024
4,25/5 for me.
Compared to the first book, this one was much shorter, yet a lot of things happened nonetheless. This installment focuses on Quinns’s evolution and her getting in phase with her powers, which was very pleasing to read.
I enjoyed going back to this rather somber world and characters, and in particular, the growing tension between Quinn and Lazarus (in all senses of the word). Their relationship seem to degrade instead of improving, and it gives all sense to the 'slow burn' and 'enemies to lovers' trope - if it ever happens 😅.
The new characters introduced bring a new dimension to the world and it’s mythology. Axe is a very intriguing persona and her and Quinn's dynamic was very funny.
I got a little glimpse into my favorite character Draeven’s state of mind so my heart is content 🥰.
It ends (again) in a cliffhanger and I truly hope the next installment will be released here soon because I am hooked.
Despite it being shorter, I liked book 2 slightly better than book 1 because of the imo more balanced rhythm and the overall more intetesting construction of the events (the true objectives/danger, the thickening mysteries and hints about the 'final boss',...) hence why I gave 4,25 where the first got 4/5.
Compared to the first book, this one was much shorter, yet a lot of things happened nonetheless. This installment focuses on Quinns’s evolution and her getting in phase with her powers, which was very pleasing to read.
I enjoyed going back to this rather somber world and characters, and in particular, the growing tension between Quinn and Lazarus (in all senses of the word). Their relationship seem to degrade instead of improving, and it gives all sense to the 'slow burn' and 'enemies to lovers' trope - if it ever happens 😅.
The new characters introduced bring a new dimension to the world and it’s mythology. Axe is a very intriguing persona and her and Quinn's dynamic was very funny.
I got a little glimpse into my favorite character Draeven’s state of mind so my heart is content 🥰.
It ends (again) in a cliffhanger and I truly hope the next installment will be released here soon because I am hooked.
Despite it being shorter, I liked book 2 slightly better than book 1 because of the imo more balanced rhythm and the overall more intetesting construction of the events (the true objectives/danger, the thickening mysteries and hints about the 'final boss',...) hence why I gave 4,25 where the first got 4/5.
April 22, 2022
So good.
I. Want. More.
I. Want. More.
March 6, 2024
2024 Reads #135/250
February 23, 2025
Je ne rentrerais pas dans les détails, s'agissant d'un second tome mais vous vous souvenez peut être que j'avais adoré le premier. Ce deuxième opus reste dans la lignée de son prédécesseur et m'a totalement conquise par ses péripéties, son enquête et les pions que l'autrice met en place au fur et à mesure dans son récit. Nos protagonistes vont être confrontés aux intrigues de la Cour de la Reine Pirate, et le moins que l'on puisse dire c'est qu'ils vont avoir du fil à retordre. Mais rien est trop grand pour Quinn et Lazarus qui sont prêts à tout pour arriver à leurs fins. Au fil des pages, leur relation s'étoffe... pour notre plus grand plaisir ! J'ai hâte de continuer cette saga, dont je viens justement de me procurer le troisième tome !
September 18, 2024
4.5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5 (rounded up)
I absolutely loved the first book in this serious and was super excited to finally pick up book two and it definitely didn't disappoint.
The FMC completely comes out of her element in this one and becomes a total badass. I found myself rooting for her the whole way through.
I also really like that the MMC understands the FMC and believes that she is her true self when she has control over her situation. When she is free.
The magic system is very unique in this series and had me shocked so many times!
You get:
• Dark Romantasy
• Magi
• Don't Trust Anyone
• Twists & Turns
• Murder & Gore
• Feeds Off Fears
• Unlikely Allies
I highly recommend this series! Available on ebook, hardcover, paperback, and audiobook.
I absolutely loved the first book in this serious and was super excited to finally pick up book two and it definitely didn't disappoint.
The FMC completely comes out of her element in this one and becomes a total badass. I found myself rooting for her the whole way through.
I also really like that the MMC understands the FMC and believes that she is her true self when she has control over her situation. When she is free.
The magic system is very unique in this series and had me shocked so many times!
You get:
• Dark Romantasy
• Magi
• Don't Trust Anyone
• Twists & Turns
• Murder & Gore
• Feeds Off Fears
• Unlikely Allies
I highly recommend this series! Available on ebook, hardcover, paperback, and audiobook.
September 29, 2019
Accused of treason, Quinn needs to find the real culprit and fast, or not only will Lazarus not have his alliance with the Pirate Queen Imogen, but they will forfeit their lives as well.
This book continues on the very solid foundation that was established in the first installment. World building was very good with all scenes and environments clear and well described.
Character development was very good. Quinn is learning how far her powers have grown since Lazarus carried her out of the pool, but now she realizes that she will need to learn control if she does not want a repeat of what happened after the battle (end of book 1). She is coming to terms that her actions not only have consequences for herself but also for her House (her friends even?).
Lazarus is taking a bit of a backseat on this one, forced to trust Quinn and hope/pray she doesn't get them all killed. His feelings (if such a man could have those) keep on growing, bringing him closer and closer to the bright darkness that is Quinn.
I especially liked how Quinn's attitude towards Lorraine has changed, I think she might be the first within the party she actually cares for, on a certain level.
Pacing and flow were good. There wasn't a moment I felt bored or too hyped up on adrenaline :D
The book itself was well written, with no (noticeable) errors. There is no sex described in this book (if that is important to you).
All in all, I would say I liked the first installment better, this seemed a little more... normal? :D But still a great and entertaining read!
This book continues on the very solid foundation that was established in the first installment. World building was very good with all scenes and environments clear and well described.
Character development was very good. Quinn is learning how far her powers have grown since Lazarus carried her out of the pool, but now she realizes that she will need to learn control if she does not want a repeat of what happened after the battle (end of book 1). She is coming to terms that her actions not only have consequences for herself but also for her House (her friends even?).
Lazarus is taking a bit of a backseat on this one, forced to trust Quinn and hope/pray she doesn't get them all killed. His feelings (if such a man could have those) keep on growing, bringing him closer and closer to the bright darkness that is Quinn.
I especially liked how Quinn's attitude towards Lorraine has changed, I think she might be the first within the party she actually cares for, on a certain level.
Pacing and flow were good. There wasn't a moment I felt bored or too hyped up on adrenaline :D
The book itself was well written, with no (noticeable) errors. There is no sex described in this book (if that is important to you).
All in all, I would say I liked the first installment better, this seemed a little more... normal? :D But still a great and entertaining read!
October 15, 2021
Yikes...this sequel was not great in my opinion.
I'll start off by saying the pacing was not it in Blessed Be the Wicked. The first 50% was full of the characters doing a whole lot of nothing. They talk about how "badass" Quinn is and romantic tension between Quinn and Lazarus but that's pretty much it. Then when something exciting finally does happen it only takes up about 20% of the book. The action ends at the 80% mark and the rest of the book is just the characters talking on and on about Quinn AGAIN! The ending was just so anticlimactic and by the end all I could think about was "who cares?"
Speaking of Quinn, the authors try so very hard to convince the readers that she's a scary, super powerful badass but I'm just not buying it. We get told how powerful Quinn is without really being shown what she can do. Maybe it's because the authors don't really explain how the magic system works or because she hasn't really demonstrated it yet but Quinn's power doesn't seem all that impressive.
This sequel just wasn't for me unfortunately.
I'll start off by saying the pacing was not it in Blessed Be the Wicked. The first 50% was full of the characters doing a whole lot of nothing. They talk about how "badass" Quinn is and romantic tension between Quinn and Lazarus but that's pretty much it. Then when something exciting finally does happen it only takes up about 20% of the book. The action ends at the 80% mark and the rest of the book is just the characters talking on and on about Quinn AGAIN! The ending was just so anticlimactic and by the end all I could think about was "who cares?"
Speaking of Quinn, the authors try so very hard to convince the readers that she's a scary, super powerful badass but I'm just not buying it. We get told how powerful Quinn is without really being shown what she can do. Maybe it's because the authors don't really explain how the magic system works or because she hasn't really demonstrated it yet but Quinn's power doesn't seem all that impressive.
This sequel just wasn't for me unfortunately.
October 19, 2020
I do like the titles in this series, the authors have put some thought into them which also references from the books. Unlike other mainstream authors, who put Queen of this or King of that and are done with the whole process which annoys me to no end.
Introduced with more interesting characters, but I didn't enjoyed this one more than its predecessor. The world is interesting. Though I constant reminder that our main character is "white/pale as the snow". Ugghh. I could do without that reminder every third page.
You can see the villains miles away. Not really happy with the story and how it ended. But one thing is I would like see what happens next though.
Introduced with more interesting characters, but I didn't enjoyed this one more than its predecessor. The world is interesting. Though I constant reminder that our main character is "white/pale as the snow". Ugghh. I could do without that reminder every third page.
You can see the villains miles away. Not really happy with the story and how it ended. But one thing is I would like see what happens next though.
July 17, 2019
"Curiosity is the bane of secrets." - Quinn Darkova
The second book in the Dark Maji series and it was just as gripping and action-packed as the first one. I read it in one sitting and then begged for more. If you like your books with dangerous women who don't take shit and revel in their dark side, this series is for you! It's made it's way into my top five favorite series of all time! Kel Carpenter & Lucy Smoke knocked this one out of the park!
The second book in the Dark Maji series and it was just as gripping and action-packed as the first one. I read it in one sitting and then begged for more. If you like your books with dangerous women who don't take shit and revel in their dark side, this series is for you! It's made it's way into my top five favorite series of all time! Kel Carpenter & Lucy Smoke knocked this one out of the park!
October 3, 2020
Disappointing
The first book had potential but by the time this book was over I no longer cared what happened to Quinn. She became smarter than everyone, better at everything than anyone else, and she was always right. The tension between her and Lazarus evaporated and the explanations everyone gave for their actions was bull. I think I was most disappointed by the pirate queen Imogen, she just acted like a jerk at times for no reason.
The first book had potential but by the time this book was over I no longer cared what happened to Quinn. She became smarter than everyone, better at everything than anyone else, and she was always right. The tension between her and Lazarus evaporated and the explanations everyone gave for their actions was bull. I think I was most disappointed by the pirate queen Imogen, she just acted like a jerk at times for no reason.
July 11, 2020
Quinn meets the Pirate Queen. She's accused of poisoning the queen. And what does she do? Breaks out of prison of course and find the real culprit.
I didn't love this like I did book 1 but still I am loving Quinn.
Axe is also another interesting character.
I didn't love this like I did book 1 but still I am loving Quinn.
Axe is also another interesting character.
June 14, 2023
4,5 ★
January 3, 2020
The story was a bit dragging this time around and the plot was..ehh.. I'm contemplating if I wanna read the next series.
May 16, 2024
Decent
I enjoyed the story, but I feel like it could have been written better. I have many, many questions and must continue to get answers.
I enjoyed the story, but I feel like it could have been written better. I have many, many questions and must continue to get answers.
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