"The Bride of Death" is an exquisite tale that combines elements of fantasy, romance, and historical fiction. The beginning of the story strongly resembles "The Bear and the Nightingale" by Katherine Arden, setting a captivating and atmospheric tone. The characters in the book experience profound grief, adding depth and emotional intensity to the narrative.

The story feels like a blend of "The Bear and the Nightingale" and "Kingdom of the Wicked," creating a unique and compelling world for readers to explore. The protagonist, Zerryn, finds herself torn between two captivating characters, Çelik and Erlik, and their complex dynamics keep the reader engaged and invested.

The romantic relationship between Zerryn and Erlik is particularly captivating, and the reader eagerly hopes for a happy ending for them. The heavy focus on Zerryn's journey to save herself adds a powerful feminist element to the story. It highlights the strength and resilience of women, who often have to rely on themselves in a world that undermines their abilities.

Overall, "The Bride of Death" is a fantastical and romantic read, with dark and heartbreaking moments that are balanced by charm and beauty. It is a book that will leave a lasting impression on readers, immersing them in a world of magic and love.

This book kept twisting and turning in ways I never expected. It’s written in such a way that I felt the inner struggle of the main character as she did and was equally on the fence about what path she should take. I do wish it there had been a little bit more background on the lore of the underworld.

2.5 stars, rounded up. I always love a death & the maiden scenario, but this one fell a little short for me. It definitely hit on the enemies to lovers, and for the most part I was pulled into the story and enjoying the drama of the three tasks to win the throne, however... (light spoilers beyond this point)
The pacing was a bit inconsistent, and I found the world building to be lacking. At the time Zerryn decided to try for Erlik's hand, I really had no sense of the dire situation in her village, or her relationship with the friend she had to save, so it really didn't feel like she needed to fight so hard for this. The concept of the old gods had been brushed over, but we had no real details about the rest of them, nor did we even really understand what Erlik's deal was. Then throughout the tasks, we never really heard about the stories from Zerryn's childhood that guided her, nor about the research she did, but she would suddenly show up with a brilliant plan and know all the tricks she needed to succeed. Even her magic, which was talked about a lot, was never really explained or shown in great detail - I heard a lot that when she was a child, the trees would bend over for her, the animals would flock to her, but that wasn't even shown in the chapters detailing her childhood days in the forest. Even when the priest spoke of her ability to save the garden, we never got her perspective on how she did it or what she felt. Maybe this was just meant to be a dark romance where I expected more of the fantasy side, but there was so much context I wish I had that kept holding me back from enjoying the story.
Erlik & Zerryn's relationship was also so hot & cold it was hard to follow - I know that's typical in the genre, especially with these types of stories, but in the very end, Zerryn says "his sharp smile and flirty banter hid a soul that ached for love" and I feel like we never once saw an inkling of that. He definitely had his moments of being sweet, but only to Zerryn - it never felt like he had any desire to befriend or care about anyone in his world, and we never really heard anything about his backstory.
Also, I am STILL wondering what role Derya played in all of this - was really hoping we would get an answer as to how she was sent there and why she wasn't allowed to speak of Death.
There were a lot of good pieces to this book, it was exciting and mysterious, had all the angsty sexual tension, and I love when a main character finds a murderous bestie (Beyza!!), but I just found myself wanting so much more out of this.

*Thank you so much to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the chance to review an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*

Zerryn was always an odd child, happy on her own and hearing frightening stories from her nanny. As she grew older she discovered that perhaps what she thought were just stories were not stories at all.

I found the beginning of this book to be a little slow, but as soon as Zerryn gets older, the story really takes off. I completely understand why if you are fans of Naomi Novik’s Uprooted or Katherine Arden’s The Bear and the Nightingale, you will love this book. It is beautiful and moving, and I absolutely loved the ending. I seriously recommend this book to anyone who thinks it might be for them!

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Alright, I ABSOLUTELY DEVOURED this book and stayed up till 4 a.m. on Christmas Eve, ruining my eyes just to finish it (worth every second, btw). Literally the perfect mesh of Alice in Wonderland, a gothic Selection, and a calibre of mythology up to par with The Bear and the Nightingale. I also loved that it was actually a dark and gothic romance—it was twisted and horrifying, but stayed so true to the characters that I’m still applauding from behind this screen. I don’t know how, but the story just works, even though it’s deeply disturbing yet somehow also beautiful. I’m honestly still baffled because it just worked so well, and I don’t really know how to describe the level of enchantment I had when reading this.

I also have no clue how I’ve never heard of F.M. Aden before because, MAN OH MAN, they write absolutely BEAUTIFULLY. The dark romance, the setting, and the mythology were so intricately woven and delivered, capturing me till the very end. F.M. Aden did a spectacular job at world-building and creating a gothic atmosphere, as well as ensuring that the reader is continuously engaged through a well-paced plot. They wrote unique and distinct characters—the most captivating of all being Erlik Khan, leaving me continuously questioning what it means to be a hero or villain. And as for the side characters, they were also so intriguing and really complemented the last 50% of the book.

My only real critique of the novel is that it took a while for the story to get going at the start. While I get that it was necessary to build the lore, it just felt a bit dragged out; however, it did pick up very quickly once you were 15% into the story. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and its fantastical writing, and if you love gothic mythology, then this story is absolutely perfect for you! :)

Born into a world rich with Turkic mythology, a young girl is caught in a twisted love story with the devil.

Zerryn grew up hearing stories of monsters and jinn, cautionary tales for little girls who play in the woods. Soon after moving from her childhood home, Zerryn meets Çelik, a sweet boy she adores and dreams of marrying someday. Tragedy hits when he is possessed by Erlik Khan, the Lord of Death, who is seeking a bride. In order to save her dear friend, Zerryn must travel to the underworld and complete three impossible tasks, or risk losing everything she loves.

This book is wild, I can’t sum it up any other way. The blurb barely scratches the surface. It’s such a fun read, the writing is smooth and flowery, and the characters are very entertaining, you love to hate them. I must confess, I am not a fan of love triangles. The back and forth between each male love interest was more frustrating than heart wrenching. Very dramatic. I didn’t enjoy the love story as much as the fantasy, which drew me in and kept me reading. I also grew up hearing stories of jinn from my aunts and uncles, and the mythology holds a special place in my heart. I love Asian story settings, it feels like home.

If you enjoy dramatic love triangles, and a main character’s slow descent into madness, this book is a perfect fit! Don’t let my distaste for the love story deter you, it’s worth the read.

Thank you to Netgalley and Northern Light Press for this ARC.

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC.

The Bride of Death is a beautiful tale of courage and sacrifice. We follow the story of Zerryn, a young girl from a remote village who decides to compete to became the bride of Death personified in order to save her childhood friend and her village.

What I loved in this story is the mythology and the writing style that will make you ache for this world no matter how vicious it gets. The women friendships were also refreshing and beautifully done.

The one reason I did not give this book more stars is because it did feel like it could have been shorter. The pacing was off and there were huge chunks of the book that made it drag on forever. And even though I liked the main romance, it did feel like there was some wasted potential to dive deeper into their feelings (which, tbh, is a thing that’s more and more recurrent in books these days because of all the focus on “spice” in my opinion.)

This book is for fans of “Uprooted” with a touch of the “Kingdom of the Wicked” vibes.

I found the writing to be a little confusing at times, and it was quite formal. But the story was so unique. I couldn’t put it down! I hope this one gets the fame it deserves when it’s released.

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.