This book was so messed up and creepy, and I loved it! The beginning starts almost like a fairy tale, starting when Zerryn is very young, which I always really enjoy in fantasy. My one complaint is that I would've liked just one chapter dealing with when Celik first started exhibiting signs of possession, just to give some background knowledge. It felt like the story jumped abruptly from Zerryn and Celik getting together, to him having been possessed for awhile. Other than that, though, this book was spectacular. I loved Zerryn and Erlik (especially their banter), as well as all of the side characters. The three trials were so interesting, and Aden clearly writes quest-type plotlines really well. I'll definitely read anything Aden writes from now on; The Bride of Death really holds its own next to all of the recent popular romantasies.

This was a really good read and I liked the way Zerryn takes on the trials to become the bride of death. It's not a straightforward victory but I still found myself cheering her on as she is getting through each one. She develops a really good friendship with one of the other bride contenders, one that feels like something she has needed all her life. Her relationship with Erlik is somewhat contrary because there's the constant contrast of her goodness and his evil. Somewhere they find some common ground and she is drawn to him.

I did have a couple of issues with the story. One is about Zerryn's decision at the end, which honestly seemed really contrary to her personality. There are also several references to encounters between these two in the past with regard to Zerryn's magic. I just didn't feel like this was addressed and resolved in any way.

Otherwise, this was a great book and I highly recommend it, giving it 3.5 stars. I would like to thank Netgalley and Northern Light Press for the advanced reader copy. It should be noted my feedback in completely voluntary.

The synopsis was not lying when it said it was like "The Bear and the Nightingale" by Katherine Arden. This was basically a twin sister novel to that book (which is in my top reads of ALL TIME) so that's a fantastic comment from me and ended up being a fabulous reading experience for me.

If you enjoyed Arden's "The Winternight Trilogy", I can almost guarantee you will LOVE this book. Just how "The Bear and the NIghtingale" was essentially a love letter to Russian folklore, "The Bride of Death" was a love letter to Turkish folklore.

For those familiar with "The Winternight Trilogy":

Zerryn in "The Bride of Death" = Vasilisa/Vasya

Erik Khan ("Death"") in "The Bride of Death" = Morozko/The Frost Demon

Despite the GIANT similarities between the two books, "The Bride of Death" does eventually "become its own book" ESPECIALLY because this book has A LOT more "spice" than "The Bear and the Nightingale" and this book is also much more gothic/dark which I enjoyed A LOT.

My only criticism of this book was that some of the writing (especially the metaphors) was a bit confusing and I wasn't sure what the author was trying to convey, even after reading the sentence over and over. This might just be a ME problem, but I wanted to note it anyways.

This was overall a very VERY good book and an easy 4 stars!

This was an absolutely great read! It was captivating from start to end and if you're a fan of fantasy and mythology, I highly recommend this book. The story follows Zerryn, a young girl who grew up hearing tales of the Lord of Death, Erlik Khan. When her best friend Çelik is possessed by Erlik, Zerryn must find a way to save him before it's too late.

The author does an excellent job of building the world of the story, with vivid descriptions of the village, the temple gardens, and the crumbling estate atop Mount Ida. The atmosphere is dark and eerie, perfectly setting the mood for this tale of demons and the Underworld.

Zerryn is a strong and determined protagonist, and readers will root for her as she faces impossible tasks and dangerous creatures in order to save her friend. Her growth throughout the novel is well-developed and believable, making her a relatable and likable character.

The plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping readers engaged and guessing until the very end. Aden's writing is eloquent and descriptive, bringing the story to life and making it easy to visualize each scene. The inclusion of Turkish mythology adds a unique and interesting aspect to the story, making it stand out from other fantasy novels.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the novel is the character of Erlik Khan. He is a complex and fascinating villain, with a dark and mysterious past that is slowly revealed throughout the story. Zerryn's interactions with him are filled with tension and intrigue, making for some of the most gripping scenes in the book.

In The Bride of Death, our young heroine, Zerryn, grew up on tales of magic knowing that she carried within her. Of the Lord of Death, Erlik Khan, with a penchant for stealing young women and feasting upon their torn-apart bodies. So, she keeps her head down and tends to the temple gardens in the company of her closest friend, Çelik. Until one day, Çelik begins acting differently and departs to the castle upon the mountain. Zerryn offers to go, defeat the Lord of Death, and return with her friend, but the Lord of Death has three tasks she must undertake before she can leave.

I am going out here to say I loved this book. This book had been haunting me ever since I had come across it on Netgalley. I mulled on the requesting it but the premise of the novel sounded promising and I could not shake the hold it had on me. So, I inquired, not quite sure I would get it, but happy I did. The characters. The world-building. The storyline. All are uniquely crafted. The characters in this book are so well-developed and complex. Each one has a distinct personality and motivation, and I found myself becoming emotionally invested in their journeys. The author did a fantastic job of making them feel real and relatable. I know we should never like the villain but I could not help it. To be honest, I was rooting for him the moment he arrived on the scene.

Honestly, I did not care at all for Çelik. There was something about him that rubbed me the wrong way and his character at the end just cemented my dislike for him. And let's not forget that aunt. I wanted to tear her hair out. Sorry, not sorry.

I love it when the world-building is a fascinating aspect of the story. When uniquely done, it creates a world that can draw the reader in with the beauty and wonder built around the characters. Magic. Lore. Mythology. All of these were weaved into a single part of the world and I was there for it. This was a world where Christianity was starting to spread its spinny fingers across the continent removing old gods from those who still clung to the old way.

With that being said, I enjoyed this story. I loved the characters. The world-building. The storyline. I loved that I devoured this book quickly and it made me still think about the storyline and characters. Still made me dislike characters that I don't think the author intended for me to do so. LOL. Otherwise, I recommend this book when it has its release in March.


*Disclaimer: Thank you to the author, her publishers, and Netgalley for allowing me to read and review this book. The opinions of this review are mine and mine alone

I adored this retelling! Very well written and planned out nicely. The plot is easy to follow along too and really takes off about 20% into the book. It's fast paced with the plot moving along.

thank you to net galley for the arc, the bride of death reminded me of deathless a little and I particularly enjoyed the writing style and zerryn as a protagonist. the ending wasn’t quite what I expected but it felt well earned and enjoyable.

OK. I've been attempting to review this since I read it and I couldn't decide whether I loved this book or not so I re read it and decided, yes I do.

this is a whirlwind of a book that follows the life of Zerryn as she grows up and attempts to save her village through a deal with the Lord of death. its steeped in Turkish mythology and perfect for those who loved the Bear and the Nightingale.

thank you for the ARC, enjoyed this a lot

Absolutely brilliant, I loved everything about this book! It is steeped in history and folklore from Asia Minor, and the mythology is so well utilized in it. The characters are very well developed and the plot itself is fascinating! The characters face so many obstacles and decisions, and this truly kept me on my toes. If you enjoyed The Winternight Trilogy by Katherine Arden, you will love this! It was so unique and just fantastic to read I wanted more.

Thank you NetGalley for a free e-galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"The Bride of Death" by F.M. Aden is an entrancing adult debut that masterfully blends elements of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Naomi Novik’s "Uprooted" and Katherine Arden’s "The Bear and the Nightingale," this novel transports readers into a richly imagined world where myth and reality intertwine. The story follows Zerryn, a young woman from a small village, as she embarks on a perilous journey to save her best friend Çelik and her village from the torment of the formidable Lord of Death, Erlik Khan.

Aden’s writing is evocative and lush, immersing the reader in a world steeped in folklore and magic. The character of Zerryn is beautifully crafted, embodying strength, determination, and vulnerability. Her evolution from a quiet girl tending to temple gardens to a brave woman facing the Lord of Death is compelling and inspires admiration.

The novel’s portrayal of Erlik Khan as a powerful and enigmatic figure adds a layer of intrigue and depth to the story. The dynamic between Zerryn and Erlik is complex and fascinating, evolving as Zerryn undertakes the three impossible tasks required to become the queen of the Underworld. This element of the narrative is particularly captivating, blending elements of traditional fairy tales with a fresh, unique perspective.

The setting, rich in mythological references and atmospheric details, is a standout aspect of the novel. Aden's skillful world-building transports the reader to a place where folklore and reality merge seamlessly, creating an immersive reading experience.

However, readers should note that the blend of genres and the novel’s intricate plot may not appeal to everyone. Those seeking a straightforward historical or fantasy narrative might find the complexity and depth of the mythological elements challenging.

Content warnings for themes of death, mythology, and the supernatural are appropriate. This novel will appeal most to readers who enjoy a mix of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance, particularly those who appreciate stories rooted in mythology and folklore.

In conclusion, "The Bride of Death" by F.M. Aden is a captivating and beautifully written novel that offers a unique blend of genres. Its rich storytelling, memorable characters, and enchanting world make it a standout debut, sure to enthrall fans of historical fantasy and mythological tales.

4.75 ★ stars.

I have no idea what it was but whatever it was, I want more of it. I don't know if I loathe it or love it but it deserves appreciation for dragging me on the crossroads anyway. This book was a collection of myths and folklore weaved into the story of a brave girl who sought to slay darkness himself. The story was never satisfied settling on one feeling; it whirled and twirled around every fleeting thought, passing emotion, captured it and gave it to us in pieces. I can't describe the amount of pain it made me go through, I'm still aching all over. There were moments that made me 'throw the book across the room' kind of frustrated and some more moments that made me giddy with happiness and surprisingly I loved both. A delightful read with the cold bite of diving through the underworld and the sweet oblivion of loving the unlovable.

Turkish folklore meets slow burn, dark, fantasy romance…

Just wow. What a unique world, built do vividly around Turkish mythology, a world filled with demons, legends and mystical powers. The start was so fierce, I was glued to the pages of my kindle as I quickly fell in love with zerryn. Such a strong character, with morals she believes in and braver than grown men. She may have started off timid, but boy did she grow into such a strong willed, and determined young woman who just wants to save her best friend. The sacrifices she had to make, the journey she went on all added depth and complexity to her character. Her struggles with the huge task of becoming Erlik wife made her so relatable and I just wanted to protect her so hard. The bride challenges/ tasks, was such a unique spin and twist that I enjoyed reading, it felt like the hunger games.

The writing style was masterfully crafted to keep us engaged throughout the entire story and I was hooked.

"The Bride of Death" by F.M. Aden takes readers on a mystical and gripping journey into a world filled with legends, demons, and untold power. Set in a small village, the story revolves around a young girl named Zerryn, whose life takes a dramatic turn when her best friend, Çelik, becomes possessed by the Lord of Death himself, Erlik Khan. As the rumors of Çelik's possession and the growing influence of the demon spread, Zerryn realizes that she must confront Erlik Khan and save her friend from a fate worse than death. One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to immerse readers in a vividly depicted world. Aden masterfully weaves a tale of mythology and folklore, bringing to life the mystical realm of Erlik Khan and the challenges faced by Zerryn. The descriptions of the village, the crumbling estate atop Mount Ida, and the eerie presence of the demon within Çelik create a palpable sense of tension and suspense that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. Moreover, the character development in "The Bride of Death" is commendable. Zerryn's transformation from a timid and reserved girl to a strong-willed protagonist is captivating to witness. Her determination to save her friend, coupled with her realization of the sacrifices she must make, adds depth and complexity to her character. The internal struggle she faces when presented with the daunting task of becoming Erlik Khan's bride showcases her resilience, making her a relatable and compelling heroine. Throughout the narrative, Aden skillfully maintains a steady pace, ensuring that readers remain engaged from start to finish. The plot takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping readers on edge and eager to discover the outcome of Zerryn's journey. The three impossible tasks she must complete to become Erlik's bride introduce a fascinating element of challenge, adding layers of suspense and intrigue to the story. "The Bride of Death" delves into themes of sacrifice, friendship, and the fight against darkness. Aden's prose is eloquent, painting vivid images and evoking a range of emotions within the reader. The fusion of fantasy, mythology, and elements of romance creates a unique reading experience that appeals to fans of multiple genres. In conclusion, "The Bride of Death" is a captivating novel that transports readers to a fantastical world where the line between good and evil blurs. F.M. Aden's imaginative storytelling, compelling characters, and skillful pacing make it a must-read for fans of fantasy and mythology. Prepare to be enthralled by Zerryn's journey as she confronts her fears, battles ancient forces, and discovers her inner strength.

If you liked The Bear and the Nightingale, you'll love this one, although it's a little more NSFW, but not terribly so.

Amazing book based on Turkish folklore. I absolutely love these books that blend folkloric tales with increasing Christianity and also try to humanise the traditional 'villians'. In this case it was the Lord of Death. It is a bit tropey, but it doesn't detract from a fantastic read.

There's good pacing, great characters, and a good plot. I would love to read more like this.

Brilliantly written book with the feel of being inside traditional folklore. This story takes place in Asia Minor and uses the mythology of that area to good effect. The characters are vibrant and deep and the plot itself is fraught with challenges as well as decisions that twist the heart as well as emotions. We are presented with a supposedly simple story of a girl who journeys into the underworld to free her betrothed and save her village by marrying it's king. But there is so much more to this story. The woman herself learning to rely on her own power instead of the men around her. The charm of the King of the dead himself. Her personal magic vs the magic of death. What will she choose and are those she's fighting for actually worth the price she is paying. This is a fantastically written book with a complex world based off mythology of the region. The author does some amazing things here and at the end you are torn and tattered but pleased in general. Great book give it a read. Thanks Netgalley and the Publishers for a first look at this book.

So it’s not that the book is bad….its just it didn’t go in the direction I thought it was going to go…and it made it disappointing.

Without spoiling much, the surprises felt forced…almost as if they happened just so the reader would expect the opposite. Characters felt basic enough to where you forget them. Nothing outstanding.

Thank you for the copy.

Unfortunately, I just did not connect with this book. For starters, I found the characters rather bland and one-dimensional. The protagonist Zerryn read much younger than she was supposed to be, often acting bratty and immature and not showing any real motivations for her actions. For instance, she would claim to despise Erlik and want nothing more than to kill him while simultaneously getting offended if he spoke to any other contestants or if he ignored her summons for any length of time.

Many things throughout the book were told to the readers rather than being shown, such as how good Zerryn is, such as making splints for injured animals, or how Erlik spared her grandmother’s life long ago for Zerryn’s sake. It made it difficult to care about and connect with the characters a lot of the time.

The pacing of the story seemed frequently to be inconsistent. Seeing any of Zerryn’s preparations for the tasks would have been a fascinating way to learn more about the mythology. Instead, the story would usually just skip over those parts and Zerryn would somehow know exactly what she had to do as the task started. It cheapened the experience and the feeling of her earning her way through the trials.

The mythology of the story and the various creatures such as the Korbolko were interesting, and I do wish we got to see more. While I did enjoy some of the side characters as well, such as Berk and the dark children of Erlik, I wish we would have seen more of them, to get to know more of their lives and their motivations throughout the story. It often seemed as though they were an afterthought, or forgotten altogether.

Overall, this story had potential, and it had its good qualities. If you’re looking for just a simple dark romance story, you may enjoy it. However, there unfortunately is not much substance and I likely will not recommend it to others. 2/5 stars.

This is exactly what I wanted it to be. It was a well written and I loved how unique it was. And thank you for not glamorizing the Underworld even though I’m a sucker for those types lol this was really good!

[Full review to be posted on release day]

I was initially drawn to this book because of the comparison to Uprooted by Naomi Novik, one of my favorite books. While parts of it lived to that potential, other parts failed. I had some issues with the pacing, especially at the beginning. This lead to issues with the characters being one dimensional.

Despite this, I adored the gothic ambiance of this book. After the first 30%, the pace really improves. I found myself having so much fun reading about the rich world the author crafted. The Underworld descriptions were so cool, and I loved how Erlik was written. Not to mention, the main character Zerryn was actually quite likeable!

Overall, this was a gothic page-turner with an intriguing premise and a solid plot. Some improvements could be made with regards to the pacing at the beginning, but I’d totally recommend this anyway!

Unfortunate DNF for me! I may come back to this at some point, but for now the writing just felt muddled and confused, especially in terms of the pacing.