2.5 stars (Rounded Up)

I really enjoyed the concept of this novel. I can’t think of a story I’ve read that’s about an executioner, let alone a female one. The slice-of-life aspect was enjoyable and the pacing seemed decent, overall.
However, some of the writing choices irked me a bit. Many sections were clunky with over-written statements and ill-fitting words. It seemed as though this could’ve used some more editing.
At times, the author doesn’t trust the reader and pointedly states that ‘this is a common practice among strangers’ or ‘this is a metaphor for something’ etc.
The romance also became somewhat tedious at times. There was too much internalizing and over-explaining, a strong theme throughout the novel.
In all, the story wrapped up well enough for me and despite the cliffhangers, I don’t find myself making book 2 a priority.

In regards to the concept and plot, I hope this series continues to be as unique as this first entry!

All the Dark Souls in the first book in a duopoly by A.M Dunnewin. It is a really short, quick read that definitely leaves you wanting to read the second one immediately.
Joss, or Jocelyn Brevyn comes from a long line of executioners. After the tragic death of most of her family and the disappearance of her surviving brother she has no choice but to take on the responsibility, You can definitely tell she is selfless, doing what she can for others regardless of her traumatic employment as the town executioner. Her assistant and foster brother Henrik does what he can to support her and is just a great side character really.
The book opens with Joss and Henrik discovering a severely injured man on their journey back to their cottage. The two regularly try and help people so it is no surprise that they pick up this John Doe and nurse him back to health.
Said mysterious man is Aric, a hired hitman tasked with killing the missing crown prince. After failing to do his job the first time he was severely beaten and left on the side of the road and this is where Joss and Henrik find him.
The majority of the first book is spent nursing Aric back to health while also handling her executioning responsibilities. I would say the last 20% hold a lot of the drama.
I enjoyed this book, but I did think that 1 and 2 could have been combined into one full length novel as the plot was slow in this one. I think Joss was a strong woman who did what she needed to take care of her remaining family. It seems she begrudgingly does her job as she’s the only one left and other executioner families are incompetent. It was really sweet seeing her explain to Aric why her and Henrik cared and nursed people when they could as a way of doing something more positive and balancing the scales of what they do day to day.
I would definitely recommend reading this book, as well as the second one immediately. It was unique and had great main and side characters.
Thank you for the eARC

This book had me gripped from the very first chapter. Such an interesting premise with great characters and world building. The only thing that let it down for me was the switch between POVs mid chapter with no warning.
I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for the next in series!

Thank you to A. M. Dunnewin and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"All the Dark Souls" by A. M. Dunnewin takes readers on an enthralling journey into a world filled with danger, magic, and complex characters. Set in a society where executioners hold a grim and feared position, the story follows Joss Brevyn, the last heir in a long line of executioners. Despite her gender, she upholds the family tradition with unwavering determination, ensuring that the condemned meet their fate within three attempts. Joss, however, is more than just a ruthless killer. She also possesses a deep compassion for others and spends her free time as a healer, providing solace to those in need.

When Joss and her loyal assistant, Henrik, discover a battered man on their way home, both are hesitant to reveal their true identities. Little do they know, the man they rescue, Aric Kayden, carries a dark secret of his own. Haunted by a failed assassination and pursued by a mysterious group, Aric must protect Joss and ensure the execution of a prisoner who holds the key to his own survival. As their bond grows stronger, one of them experiences a change of heart, setting off a chain of events that could result in their demise.

The strength of "All the Dark Souls" lies in its captivating storytelling and intricate world-building. A. M. Dunnewin paints a vivid fantasy realm, complete with distinct civilizations, mythical creatures, and a richly developed mythology. The author's attention to detail and descriptive prose immerse readers in a world that feels both familiar and extraordinary. From the bustling town of Galmoor to the shadows of Aeslian, the settings come alive, evoking a sense of wonder and excitement.

The characters in this tale are multi-dimensional and face their own unique challenges and internal struggles. Joss Brevyn emerges as a formidable protagonist, defying societal expectations and grappling with the weight of her inherited role. Her determination, bravery, and the conflict between her duty as an executioner and her desire to heal others create a compelling narrative arc. Henrik, her loyal and endearing companion, brings levity and warmth to the story with his unwavering optimism and wit.

Aric Kayden, the enigmatic assassin, is a captivating character whose presence adds depth and intrigue to the narrative. As his relationship with Joss deepens, the complexities of their individual paths become entangled, leading to choices that could have dire consequences. The slow-burn romance between Joss and Aric adds an extra layer of tension and emotion to the story, making their connection all the more captivating.

The pacing of the book allows for a gradual exploration of the characters and their motivations. While the story takes its time to unfold, the patient approach pays off, allowing readers to fully invest in the characters' journeys and the world they inhabit. Action-packed sequences are interspersed with moments of reflection, enabling thoughtful character development and adding depth to the overall narrative.

"All the Dark Souls" is a dark fantasy that seamlessly blends elements of romance, adventure, and political intrigue. It delves into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the sacrifices one must make to protect what they hold dear. A. M. Dunnewin skillfully weaves a tale that leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next installment, as the story ends on a tantalizing note, hinting at even greater challenges and revelations to come.

In conclusion, "All the Dark Souls" is a captivating and engaging fantasy novel that transports readers to a vividly imagined world. With its sophisticated world-building, compelling characters, and a balanced blend of action and contemplation, this book is sure to appeal to the masses.

The captivating and engaging fantasy tale "All the Dark Souls" by A. M. Dunnewin carries readers into a vividly imagined world full of magic, peril, and fascinating characters. Dunnewin is a compelling and thrilling read thanks to its sophisticated world-building, epic quests, and themes of valour and sacrifice.
The plot centres around Josh Brevyn, the last heir in a long line of executioners, a young and unlikely hero who sets out on a risky quest in order to defend their homeland from an ancient and evil entity. The protagonist learns about their own hidden abilities and the true nature of their fate as they contend with cunning animals, come across enigmatic companions, and unearth long-buried mysteries. With unexpected turns, heartbreaking moments, and moments of triumph, Dunnewin crafts a gripping story.
The imaginative world of "All the Dark Souls" is vivid fantasy world with distinct civilizations, mystical creatures, and complex mythology is created by the author. While reading, you are transported to a location that is both real and otherworldly thanks to the detailed descriptions and vivid imagery that bring the scene to life.
Each of the well-rounded, different characters in "All the Dark Souls" has their own difficulties, driving forces, and trajectory for personal development. Josh is an engaging and relatable hero who faces the obstacles in their path head-on and with courage. A dynamic supporting cast, provide complexity and depth to the narrative.
Action, suspense, and contemplation are expertly balanced in Dunnewin's writing, which is also captivating and evocative. Amidst the exciting escapades, there are thoughtful reflection and character growth opportunities thanks to the well-paced pacing. Readers who are anxious to find out what happens next are kept turning the pages by the author's ability to build tension and suspense.
In addition, "All the Dark Souls" emphasises the importance of resilience, self-discovery, and fate. Dunnewin goes into the growth process of the protagonist as they deal with their own uncertainties and fears when up against impossible challenges. The book also explores the links between friends, the complexities of good vs evil, and the price paid to protect what is important.
Fantasy readers will adore "All the Dark Souls," as it will transport them to a world of wonder and excitement if you enjoy epic journeys, magical settings, and hero stories.

The biggest thing that I enjoyed, was how well researched and built the world was, I felt that the weapons and things along those lines of medieval - which is why I felt as if it was well researched.

The book is slowed paced for 80-90% of the book until the end when it randomly picks up. It was a switch that went off and suddenly everything is just escalating!

“Hate is so much easier. But kindness? That takes courage” I think I really connected with this quote. Hate can become ugly, it can fuel something that’s destructive.

Not going to lie, I keep bouncing between liking the book and not liking it. Honestly there’s a lot more to the story than what we got more of the story. There was a lot that I feel.. was just missing from the story. Which really took away from the enjoyment.

I also must say that despite “romance” being mentioned, please take that with a grain of salt. It’s very much pushed to the back back.

Genre: YA

A woman executioner? Yes please! I loved having such a strong female lead!
The writing and descriptions made it easy to envision all of it.
I want more of this book, it just wasn’t long enough. I want to learn more about Joss and more about Aric. I really loved their not so aggressive/over the top instant love relationship, it was mild and curious.

The betrayal and cliffhanger it left on definitely has me wanting more!

Meinung:

Vielen Dank an den Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar!

Erster Satz: She found him lying on the side of the road, bruised and bleeding but not entirely unconscious.

Das Cover war der Grund, wieso ich mir das Buch überhaupt erst genauer angesehen habe. Es ist sehr düster und durch das Blut kann man sich auch schon denken in welche Richtung das Buch gehen wird.

Der Schreibstil der Autorin war sehr gut zu lesen. Man liest aus der dritten Person, aber es gibt leider keine Info am Kapitelanfang, aus wessen Sicht man liest. Hin und wieder war ich verwirrt, aber das war insgesamt kein Problem.

Zu Beginn lernt man Joss, eine Henkerin kennen. Ihr Job wurde ihr vererbt und sie kann nicht aus ihrer Haut. Als sie am Straßenrand Aric findet, nimmt sie ihm mit nach Hause und pflegt ihn gesund, jedoch ahnt sie nicht wer er wirklich ist.

Der Einstieg in das Buch ist mir sehr leicht gefallen. Man wird in die Welt geworfen und lernt mit der Zeit die Gepflogenheiten, was ich persönlich gut fand. Man lernt auch gleich einmal Joss und Aric kennen und hat zuerst noch keine Ahnung, wo die Reise hingehen wird. Ich empfehle auch den Klappentext nicht zu Ende zu lesen, denn der beinhaltet so ziemlich alles, was im Buch passiert und dann gibt es keine Überraschungen mehr.

Joss mochte ich sehr gerne. Durch ihre Gedanken weiß man, dass sie ihren Job nur macht, weil sie muss. Sie ist gut darin, aber sie wollte schon immer etwas anderes machen. Man merkt sofort, dass sie kein schlechter Mensch ist, sie nimmt auch Aric sofort mit nach Hause um ihn zu pflegen. Mir haben besonders ihre Gedanken bei Hinrichtungen gefallen, denn da schaltet sie komplett ab um sich zu distanzieren, sie wird zu einem anderen Menschen.

Aric mochte ich gerne. Da ich den Klappentext nicht gelesen habe, gab es da für mich immer wieder Überraschungen. Ich hatte also die wildesten Vermutungen, wer er ist und habe immer gehofft, dass ich mich täusche. Gegen Ende entdeckt man dann sein volles Potential und er ist mir richtig ans Herz gewachsen.

Ich wusste nicht wohin die Geschichte gehen würde, aber ich bin sehr froh das Buch gelesen zu haben. Beginnen möchte ich mit dem World building, das einfach genial ist. Die Autorin weiß, wie Hinrichtungen funktionieren, wir alles drum herum läuft und in dieser Medieval Welt hat auch ansonsten alles gepasst. Ich hatte immer das Gefühl, dass sie weiß, was sie da schreibt und die Fakten dazu kennt.

Außerdem gibt es keine nervige Liebesgeschichte. Alles was in Richtung Liebe geht wird nur angedeutet und steht nicht im Vordergrund. Es wird sich auf die eigentliche Geschichte von Aric und Joss konzentriert, die durch einen Gefangenen verbunden ist. Besonders die Gefangenen und wie sie mit ihrerm Lebensende umgehen fand ich sehr spannend. Man liest von zwei Hinrichtungen und die Personen könnten unterschiedlicher nicht sein. Die Darstellung war gelungen. Der letzte Gefangene hat dann entgültig mein Interesse geweckt, da er anders war als alle davor. Da war klar, dass hier was im Busch ist.

Obwohl das Buch recht kurz ist, hat es doch die perfekte Länge. Zuerst bekommen wir viel Gerede und einen normalen Tagesablauf, das ändert sich in den letzten Kapiteln, denn da beginnt die Action und ab da konnte ich das Buch nicht mehr zu Seite legen. Klar gab es Anzeichen und man konnte sich den Twist denken, aber es zu lesen ist nochmal was ganz anderes. Ich war gefesselt und jetzt kann ich Band zwei gar nicht erwarten.

Fazit:

Ich bin begeistert von dem Buch. Zwar gab es zu Beginn ein paar Längen und es passierte nicht viel, aber ansonsten hat es mich sehr gefesselt. Ich mochte alle Charaktere und besonders das Ende hält viel Potential für Band zwei. Von mir bekommt das Buch 4 Sterne.

Joss is riding down a road when she comes across a man who has been badly beaten. Her assistant, Henrik, helps her transport him back to their house so they can stitch him back up. What they don’t tell him is that they are the local executioners, taking on the role that was forced on their family for generations. As it turns out, their lives and the life of their new guest are already woven together.

I really enjoyed the whole story around not only being an executioner and how they were treated by the wider community, but also the fact that Joss was a female. Even though her family had been given the job as a kind of punishment, they were still treated differently by the people in the town. I also liked the fact that they had to learn about the human body, in order to kill someone effectively, so that had also taught them how to heal.

It was a short book and I wish it was a bit longer, the story kind of ended abruptly and there is obviously more books to come in the series. There was also a bit of political intrigue towards the end that gives you some hints as to how the story is going to go moving forward.

Thanks to #NetGallery and the publisher. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Genre: Romance
Format: Digital
POV: Multiple
Spice: None
Age suggestion: 16+

The concept for this book was really good, and I definitely saw some sparks of really good writing in it. It was pretty clunky in parts, which made getting into the book hard as I kept having to go back and reread sentences. I liked the world building a lot, and I would definitely like to see more from the author in the future.

this book was different to what i thought it was going to be, the read up was gripping and made me think it would be a fun and exciting read, but ill admit although i finished this book i felt like it was lacking and missing something although i cant put my finger on what, i just felt slightly disappointed once it was finished.

4.3 ⭐ All the Dark Souls is a dark fantasy with a bit of romance. I enjoyed reading this book. The writing style is nice and simple and the cover is beautiful. The characters are interesting and I really like that the author chose professions that I have not encountered in fantasy books before, at least not for the main characters. The author did a lot of research and thus created a new, original world. Unfortunately, the book was quite short. I didn't really have a chance to get to know the world properly and explore it together with the characters. The book has a lot of potential and I hope that the author will expand the story in the next parts and thus give the readers the opportunity to love the characters and the world even more and to witness the development of the characters. Because this way the story looks rushed. The beginning didn't have much action so I lacked the spark that pulls me into reading, but I really like the ending. And I love the slow burn romance. I think the author ended the first part extremely well and I will definitely continue reading this series.

Thank you, NetGalley for providing me a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

It took most of this book for me to really get into it. I felt like there wasn’t much as far as world building or plot. But once the action really started, the book was over so fast! I honestly LOVED the last 25% of the book and cannot wait to read the next one to find out what happens next.

This one wasn’t for me. I loved the premise but the story seemed to drag. I was hoping for more action and adventure. I just couldn’t make myself care about the characters enough to continue reading into the series.

TW// gore, mention of suicide attempts, torture

Joss Brevyn comes from a long line of executioners, nicknamed the 'Angel of Death' feared and despised by everyone, Joss is ruthless in her job, but spends the rest of her time trying to clean her hands and atone for her cutthroat job and it's bloodthirsty demands. She saves and heals as many individuals as she can with her right hand man Henrik.

Aric lives in the shadows, and that's just how he likes it, hiding in plain sight, but after failing an assassination, his client also known as 'The Mask' ensure his completion of the job in their preferred way of communication: violence. Battered and bruised, Aric is abandoned on the side of the road in Galmoor, a less affluent area, far from his prestigious home of Aeslian the Kingdom of the ruling family. During one of her many rides, Joss finds Aric, and takes him back to her house to be healed, little do they both know how quickly their lives become intertwined, and as their bond grows, the two fall into an easy companionship, but with a dark and threatening group looming over Aric, he suddenly finds himself in a conflicting and dire situation.

Joss is one hell of a fierce woman, she doesn't shy away from her job, despite her hatred for it, constantly striving to make amends to the people in need within her town whenever she can. Often dismissed or looked down on for being a woman executioner, she constantly proves herself as strong and resilient, and an absolute force to be reckoned with. She's not only had to take up the mantle of Galmoor's executioner, an occupation that has been unwillingly passed down from generation to generation, but also manage and process the grief of losing her family, and deal with the constant animosity targeted at her by her townsfolk for a job she hates. She's brave and tenacious, fighting against her inner dreams to heal and bringing hope to others, instead of fear and death. She stomachs a lot with her job, but often makes a point of touching the souls of those she's determined to kill, in a tender and warm way to reassure and ease their suffering.


Henrik, Joss's assistant and adopted brother, is a sweet little angel, with an innocence to him that's so utterly charming and endearing, even with all the pain, suffering and torture he witnesses everyday, it hasn't marred his optimism and warmth. He always brings some levity and warmth to any situation. Absolutely infatuated with the butcher's daughter and an incredible witty companion, it's hard not to fall in love with this sweet and wholesome angel.

Aric, is used to hiding in plain sight, a banterous assassin, with added cockiness, whose used to being ignored, but when he finds himself in Joss's care, he suddenly finds someone who makes him feel seen and understood for who he is. The bond between them was sweet and tender to watch unfold. Both of them spend their lives bending their morals and wills at the behest of others, Joss and Aric find kindred, lonely spirits within each other, in a world intent on bringing them down and dismissing their worth. However, with his client popping up randomly, and threatening his new found affection and kinship with Joss, he may have to betray her to save her life.

This story captivated me in ways I was not expecting, it's a slow burn, with the world being built around you slowly, so not much happens for a while, but I felt like this added a lot more depth and complexities to the characters. Even though it was slow, and things felt like they were moving at an almost glacial pace, the story and the characters really burrowed into me, and moved me in ways I was not at all ready for. It's atmospheric and strikingly written, with some intense and gritty battle scenes, the betrayal and anguish the characters feel is so palpable through the pages.

It's a gritty, dark and somewhat gruesome story about breaking the shackles you're born into, igniting the spark within you to find yourself and who you desire to be, even when your path is destined and bound by those who wield their power to control and exploit those under their rule. It was empowering, and intense, and just a beautifully moving story that was evocative and poignant. I cannot wait to read Book two.

This book was a surprise on my bingo card! I was really excited to dive into it and I was not disappointed. Going into this as a fan of SJM and JLA, it was no surprise that I gravitated towards this book based on its plot and characters. It is a YA book, so remembering that it reads like a YA book was super helpful when I started reading it.

The female main character was strong, powerful, and so cool that you can't help but root for her, even as the executioner. And out male main character was a great addition that really made the whole close proximity trope work perfectly for this book and its plot!

This is a book series that I'll be watching out for because I truly couldn't get enough of it just from book one alone! Cannot wait to see where A.M takes this series! I look forward to reading more!!

Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

All The Dark Souls (Book 1, All The Dark Souls Trilogy) – A. M. Dunnewin

I was given a copy of this book through Net Galley in order for provide an honest review.



A. M. Dunnewin is an American author who has a love of graphic novels and classical literature. She is also an affiliate of the Horror Writers Association and is addicted to Chai tea.



Joss Brevyn is the last in a long line of executioners – and she is also a woman which makes her rare and unique. She is one of the best at what she does and has never missed her mark, which is a good thing considering you have 3 strikes to kill the victim or its your head on the chopping block next.

Arik is or was, an assassin who had filed to kill his latest mark. And as a consequence, he was beaten and left for dead on the side of the road.

Which is exactly how Joss happened upon him. Against her better judgment Joss took Arik in, tended to his wounds and helped him heal. Something she would sorely regret doing.

Unbeknownst to them their next jobs would have them learning who they really are and through them into each other’s cross hairs. But will they work together or will one of them have to make a choice they won't be able to live with...



“All The Dark Souls” is a short dark fantasy story that bewitches the reader from the first words they read until they turn that last page. Though it is short, the author still managers to hold the readers in their grip and take them along a fast paced and bloody story, completely ensnaring them. Joss is everything you imagine a character like her would be, while Aric can hopefully redeem himself, he does seem to truly care about Joss. Though I suspect Aric will soon have a competitor vying for her affections.

Right away we are introduced to the three main characters: Joss, Henrik, and Aric. Joss is a female executioner and we get a good glimpse into her official position and her/her family history. Aric is a bit like Joss, an assassin of sorts, and has been severely wounded after refusing to complete a job. Henrik is Joss' assistant and friend, taken in by her father long ago. After Joss and Henrik find a barely-conscious Aric on the side of the road, they bring him home to care for him, as Joss' side gig is a healer. What follows is the crossover of Joss and Aric's "professional" roles and their budding relationship, with a few twists (and deaths) thrown in for good measure!

I enjoyed the writing and the characters, but the overall book was a bit lacking for me, personally. The plot felt very typical, average, and predictable. I think the talent of the author is what made this one a decent read. I did really enjoy the main character being a female executioner and seeing her own struggles in proving her worth against her male counterparts. She was a strong and likable character! Overall a fine read!

Joss is an executioner. Not only that, in a medieval time, Joss is a female executioner. Joss and her adoptive brother, Henrik, spend their days carrying out executions in their town either by hanging or beheading. Joss wields an axe to behead. While traveling one day they rescue a man lying on the side of the road who is horribly injured.

As they nurse the man to health they learn his name is Aric. Turns out Aric is a hired assassin and who has he been hired to assassinate? The Prince…who happens to be missing…until found by Joss while he’s hanging in her noose!

Meanwhile, at the palace, the Prince’s wife Muriel begins a political game to save the Prince and herself. This book primary set the tone for the upcoming plot with a cliff hanger leaving you wanting to know what happens next.

I loved that this book was such a different fantasy story then what I am used to. Joss Brevyn is the local town executioner, a title that is passed down through generations in a family. Even though she has a menacing job, that doesn’t stop her from assisting those in need. Little does she know the next person in need would already have their futures intertwined. The book was a bit slow to build, which would be my only gripe. Right when Joss and Aric’s stories merge is when you hold on for dear life and enjoy the ride. I enjoyed the POV’s between the different characters and getting to know what was going on in their heads. I am anxiously awaiting the next book to continue the series and give me relief from the cliff I’m hanging off of! This book and the following one in the series would be best suited for dark fantasy and romance lovers. It is a YA book, so there wasn’t much spice. More of a true action dark fantasy with a strong, independent main female character who I can tell is going to be badass. Excited to have a new author and book series to follow! Thank you to @netgalley and @A.M. Dunnewin for the copy of this book for an honest review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️