The Shrine Gentleman

A Romantasy Novel by Andrew Wooldridge

The Shrine Gentleman Book Cover

The Story

In the mystical valley of Lunaria, where the silver light of the Moon Goddess Selene has blessed the land for centuries, a fateful mistake changes the course of destiny. Riven Blackthorn, a legendary hunter known for his unmatched skill and cold demeanor, accidentally kills Lyra, the revered Shrine Maiden, while pursuing a sacred stag through the forbidden forest.

As punishment, the Moon Goddess Selene forces him to become the first Shrine Gentleman in the temple's thousand-year history. Stripped of his weapons and forced to don ceremonial silver robes, Riven must learn the gentle arts of the shrine. As months pass, he begins to discover aspects of himself long buried beneath his hunter's persona, and finds himself drawn to the divine Selene.

When the fearsome Ashborne Horde threatens to destroy the shrine and consume Selene's divine essence, Riven must find a way to protect both his goddess and the shrine by integrating the warrior and caretaker within himself. Their journey transforms not only Riven but Selene herself, creating a bridge between the divine and mortal realms.

Characters

Riven Blackthorn

Legendary hunter transformed into the first Shrine Gentleman

Selene

Moon Goddess who punishes Riven and later forms a bond with him

Briar

Riven's sister, bridge between hunter and shrine worlds

Lyra

Revered Shrine Maiden accidentally killed by Riven

Kolgrim

Leader of the Ashborne Horde, main antagonist

Themes