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The Shrouded Port: Rike Sjöstad vol. 1
WHERE CORRUPTION REIGNS, JUSTICE REQUIRES BLOOD
In the port city of Rike Sjöstad, corruption seeps through every cobblestoned alley, and blood magic is outlawed. But the forbidden is always enticing.
When her mother is brutally murdered for smuggling a magical weapon into the city, Annika plunges into the city’s underworld in search of revenge. But as she unravels secrets about the city’s infamous blood mages, she is caught between a merciless gang and a corrupt police force. To survive, she may have to depend on her mother’s murderer.
The Shrouded Port, the first book in the Rike Sjöstad trilogy, is a dark fantasy of treachery, forbidden magic, and vengeance.
Perfect for fans of BLOOD OVER BRIGHT HAVEN by M.L. Wang, WITCHMARK by C.L. Polk, AS THICK AS THIEVES by Megan Whalen Turner, THESE VIOLENT DELIGHTS by Chloe Gong, V.E. Schwab’s SHADES OF MAGIC series, THE LAST MAGICIAN by Lisa Maxwell, and Leigh Bardugo’s SIX OF CROWS duology
CONTENT WARNING: Contains graphic violence, gore, abuse, death, suicide, and alcoholism. Does not contain sexual content. Reader discretion is advised.
The Rike Sjöstad Series:
- Volume 1: The Shrouded Port
- Volume 2: The Smoking Mirror
- Volume 3: The Sky King
In the port city of Rike Sjöstad, corruption seeps through every cobblestoned alley, and blood magic is outlawed. But the forbidden is always enticing.
When her mother is brutally murdered for smuggling a magical weapon into the city, Annika plunges into the city’s underworld in search of revenge. But as she unravels secrets about the city’s infamous blood mages, she is caught between a merciless gang and a corrupt police force. To survive, she may have to depend on her mother’s murderer.
The Shrouded Port, the first book in the Rike Sjöstad trilogy, is a dark fantasy of treachery, forbidden magic, and vengeance.
Perfect for fans of BLOOD OVER BRIGHT HAVEN by M.L. Wang, WITCHMARK by C.L. Polk, AS THICK AS THIEVES by Megan Whalen Turner, THESE VIOLENT DELIGHTS by Chloe Gong, V.E. Schwab’s SHADES OF MAGIC series, THE LAST MAGICIAN by Lisa Maxwell, and Leigh Bardugo’s SIX OF CROWS duology
CONTENT WARNING: Contains graphic violence, gore, abuse, death, suicide, and alcoholism. Does not contain sexual content. Reader discretion is advised.
The Rike Sjöstad Series:
- Volume 1: The Shrouded Port
- Volume 2: The Smoking Mirror
- Volume 3: The Sky King
- GenresFantasy
279 pages, Paperback
Published July 27, 2023
About the author
Inez Rodk
21 books15 followersJust a bookworm wading through my endless TBR in pursuit of my next obsession.
My kept-me-up-all-night and can't-get-them-out-of-my-head faves are:
- A Darker Shade of Magic
- Six of Crows
- Blood Over Bright Haven
Honourable mentions go to:
- A Curse So Dark & Lonely
- Fourth Wing
- Juniper & Thorn
- These Violent Delights
My kept-me-up-all-night and can't-get-them-out-of-my-head faves are:
- A Darker Shade of Magic
- Six of Crows
- Blood Over Bright Haven
Honourable mentions go to:
- A Curse So Dark & Lonely
- Fourth Wing
- Juniper & Thorn
- These Violent Delights
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 12, 2023
What a magically fun read! Let me gather my thoughts and review to come!
October 12, 2023
“She was a tapestry of energy tightly woven with the world around her, and there was no start or end to the thread.”
The Shrouded Port was provided to me as an Advanced Reader copy, and I’m excited to say that it did not disappoint! This book had an extremely unique plot line. The genre of this book is fantasy, but I would consider it a mystery fantasy, as there are aspects to solving a murder.
The fantasy elements are unlike many other fantasy novels I’ve read before and are extremely well done. Inez Rodk makes the story come to life with the ability to provide active imagery and pull you into the story, making it feel fast paced and as if you are following a movie.
We follow 3 different characters, and jump back and forth from each of their perspectives — a merchant, an law enforcement officer, and a fugitive, each on a completely different adventure, until all their unique situations entangle. There were a lot of great twists and surprises in this book that I won’t give away for other readers!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes a fantasy, especially if you also like a little bit of mystery as well! I’m looking forward to hopefully receiving the next ARC when the sequel is released!
The Shrouded Port was provided to me as an Advanced Reader copy, and I’m excited to say that it did not disappoint! This book had an extremely unique plot line. The genre of this book is fantasy, but I would consider it a mystery fantasy, as there are aspects to solving a murder.
The fantasy elements are unlike many other fantasy novels I’ve read before and are extremely well done. Inez Rodk makes the story come to life with the ability to provide active imagery and pull you into the story, making it feel fast paced and as if you are following a movie.
We follow 3 different characters, and jump back and forth from each of their perspectives — a merchant, an law enforcement officer, and a fugitive, each on a completely different adventure, until all their unique situations entangle. There were a lot of great twists and surprises in this book that I won’t give away for other readers!
I would recommend this to anyone who likes a fantasy, especially if you also like a little bit of mystery as well! I’m looking forward to hopefully receiving the next ARC when the sequel is released!
November 3, 2025
A mysterious dark fantasy with Nordic and industrial era vibes.
Annika’s mother has been murdered and she is desperate for answers, so she sets sail on a mission that leads her down a path to smugglers, blood mages (Lehkak) and corrupt policemen. She’s stubborn, arrogant and annoying at times but I love her character development and who she turns into. Shes strong and fierce and I wouldn’t like to go up against her.
Kai is a Lehkak who is stuck in a contract with the most powerful company in the city. Sent out on a job that goes wrong, he finds himself arrested and charged with the murders of Annika’s mother. I loved Kai, I really felt for him. He’s quiet, moody and drinks a lot but who can blame him after what he’s been through. He loves his little sister too. He’s a sweetheart.
Neha is a young, naive female police officer who just wants to be taken seriously by her colleagues. She trusts in the system and what she’s been taught her entire life until she meets Kai and realises Lehkaki may not be as evil as she’s been told. Her world does kind of implode once she gets to Rike Sjöstad but I did just want to slap her at times, especially later on.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fairy slow paced but suited the style of the story. It was dark, full of tense scenes and lots of mystery. I loved the twists that were hiding in there too. The characters were well developed and had good supporting characters too, I enjoyed Hakan and hope to see more of him.
The world building was well done with Nordic and industrial era vibes. The artwork in the book was stunning too, that really helped create the world for me.
The book ended with some cliff hangers so I’m looking forward to reading book 2 to see what happens next.
A 4 star read for me. I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a dark thrilling fantasy with blood magic, secrets and betrayal.
Annika’s mother has been murdered and she is desperate for answers, so she sets sail on a mission that leads her down a path to smugglers, blood mages (Lehkak) and corrupt policemen. She’s stubborn, arrogant and annoying at times but I love her character development and who she turns into. Shes strong and fierce and I wouldn’t like to go up against her.
Kai is a Lehkak who is stuck in a contract with the most powerful company in the city. Sent out on a job that goes wrong, he finds himself arrested and charged with the murders of Annika’s mother. I loved Kai, I really felt for him. He’s quiet, moody and drinks a lot but who can blame him after what he’s been through. He loves his little sister too. He’s a sweetheart.
Neha is a young, naive female police officer who just wants to be taken seriously by her colleagues. She trusts in the system and what she’s been taught her entire life until she meets Kai and realises Lehkaki may not be as evil as she’s been told. Her world does kind of implode once she gets to Rike Sjöstad but I did just want to slap her at times, especially later on.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fairy slow paced but suited the style of the story. It was dark, full of tense scenes and lots of mystery. I loved the twists that were hiding in there too. The characters were well developed and had good supporting characters too, I enjoyed Hakan and hope to see more of him.
The world building was well done with Nordic and industrial era vibes. The artwork in the book was stunning too, that really helped create the world for me.
The book ended with some cliff hangers so I’m looking forward to reading book 2 to see what happens next.
A 4 star read for me. I definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a dark thrilling fantasy with blood magic, secrets and betrayal.
October 12, 2023
Long story short: I haven't finished a fantasy book this fast since Six of Crows.
Long story long: Annika is a headstrong and temperamental merchant whose mother is murdered under mysterious circumstances. Her death kicks off the journeys of the three POV characters: Kai, the jaded convict accused of the murder, and Neha, the naively idealistic young officer. The characters are vivid and well-developed with interesting backstories and relationships, especially Kai's sister and mouthy friend, Hakan.
The characters need to navigate Rike Sjostad, a foggy Industrial-era city filled with corrupt police, violent gangs, and greedy merchants. As Annika, Kai, and Neha unravel the mystery of the murder, they delve deeper into long-forgotten secrets of outlawed blood magic.
The plot zips along, providing a balance of action, new discoveries, and emotional moments. It kept me guessing right until the end, and I can't wait for the sequel. I'm dying to know what secrets Henrik is hiding...
Long story long: Annika is a headstrong and temperamental merchant whose mother is murdered under mysterious circumstances. Her death kicks off the journeys of the three POV characters: Kai, the jaded convict accused of the murder, and Neha, the naively idealistic young officer. The characters are vivid and well-developed with interesting backstories and relationships, especially Kai's sister and mouthy friend, Hakan.
The characters need to navigate Rike Sjostad, a foggy Industrial-era city filled with corrupt police, violent gangs, and greedy merchants. As Annika, Kai, and Neha unravel the mystery of the murder, they delve deeper into long-forgotten secrets of outlawed blood magic.
The plot zips along, providing a balance of action, new discoveries, and emotional moments. It kept me guessing right until the end, and I can't wait for the sequel. I'm dying to know what secrets Henrik is hiding...
March 18, 2026
Crafting this novel unfolded as a deeply personal and thrilling adventure, and I am delighted to share the tale that has become so close to my heart. The foggy streets of Rike Sjöstad served as both the canvas and the crucible for the three unlikely characters—each with their unique destinies intertwined with revenge, friendship, and betrayal. As a writer, there's an indescribable joy in witnessing these characters evolve, guiding them through the labyrinth of their fates in a city that breathes with a life of its own.
I hope that readers will sense the same excitement, the same heartbeat of adventure that fuelled every chapter and every revelation. May the words on these pages resonate with the same magic and wonder that brought them to life.
I hope that readers will sense the same excitement, the same heartbeat of adventure that fuelled every chapter and every revelation. May the words on these pages resonate with the same magic and wonder that brought them to life.
February 5, 2024
Rating: 3.75 stars!!
This book was a very different read for me. Fantasy with very little romance, or none! The magic element is quite different to anything I’ve read and I liked it.
There is lots of world building and the use of sentence structures to connote feelings which I liked.
The characters are built really well and you feel like you know all of them. It was left on a good cliff hanger at the end that makes you want to pick up the second book. The story itself has lots of twists and turns and keeps you turning the pages. It’s easy to follow and I enjoyed it!
This book was a very different read for me. Fantasy with very little romance, or none! The magic element is quite different to anything I’ve read and I liked it.
There is lots of world building and the use of sentence structures to connote feelings which I liked.
The characters are built really well and you feel like you know all of them. It was left on a good cliff hanger at the end that makes you want to pick up the second book. The story itself has lots of twists and turns and keeps you turning the pages. It’s easy to follow and I enjoyed it!
April 16, 2026
"The Shrouded Port" by Inez Rodk is an intriguing story in the dark / arcane / gas lamp fantasy genre with a healthy dash of mystery crime thriller thrown in for good measure. But the story is well-written and the author pulls off this melding of genres flawlessly. At first, the world building seems to be in Victorian-Era Europe, then at the mention of the "Great War" I thought perhaps post-W.W. 1, only to find out that no definitive era is given and the "Great War" was a fantasy war between the Lekhaki and Satarkata peoples, fought with both weapons and weaponized sorcery. Hence - the realm is most likely a magical alternate universe / parallel reality. Either way, it works and is entertaining.
Fantasy elements aside, this book stands on its own two feet as a good mystery - smuggling caper as well. The characters are well-developed, and I really liked the author's writing style. I found it to be a rare balance of being both descriptive and fast-paced at the same time. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down.
That being said, I did find some f the names very hard to follow, seeming to be spawned from Norwegian / Danish / Swedish maybe? And Hindi as well. Funny enough I didn't have any issues with the Asian themed names, but maybe that's because I'm also an "Otaku" who is used to reading Japanese and Chinese names in books. However, like a lot of fantasy or sci-fi books for that matter, it's a common theme to find names that are odd or unpronounceable. So, when reading such names, I oft just replace them mentally with just the few first letters. In any case, it wasn't a deal-breaker, and it didn't disrupt the flow of the novel.
Without giving away too many details, the story is about the protagonist "Annika Lindback" - a young woman with latent "Lekhaki" sorcery powers, who is out to find the culprit behind her mother's murder. Her mom was killed for taking a mysterious parcel containing a magical artifact that fills the classic Hitchcockian definition of a "MacGuffin" - or a mystery item that everyone wants, even though no one seems to know what it truly is.
Most of the action takes place in a dangerous port city called "Rike Sjostad" - a hellish town filled with smugglers that makes the pirates of Tortuga seem trustworthy.
Entering the mix is a secret agent "Neha", who is looking for the relic too, as is the rogue "Kai", whom everyone believes is the guilty murderer of Annika's mom, even though he's been framed. The conspiracy deepens, linking the 3 characters to collide together, first at sea, then on land, as they attempt to unlock secrets and solve a mystery that only deepens the further they explore it. Crooked cops, thugs, and dark sorcerers abound, all of whom are in a Maltese-Falcon-like mad dash for this prized relic known as a "Tianwang" - a sphere of weaponized sorcery technology.
I found this novel to be very unique and original in its premise and execution, with great characters. I especially liked the depiction of how the "Lekhaki" mages utilize their shakti sorcery powers. I really liked the character of Zhang Kai - a dark antihero who is conflicted emotionally and perhaps spiritually as well.
This book, "The Shrouded Port", is the first of a series of books based on these characters, and I look forward to reading more from this author, Inez Rodk. She doesn't just tell a story; she takes the reader there to experience it along with the characters. It's a great read for fans of magical fantasy with a crime thriller twist.
Fantasy elements aside, this book stands on its own two feet as a good mystery - smuggling caper as well. The characters are well-developed, and I really liked the author's writing style. I found it to be a rare balance of being both descriptive and fast-paced at the same time. Once I started reading it, I couldn't put it down.
That being said, I did find some f the names very hard to follow, seeming to be spawned from Norwegian / Danish / Swedish maybe? And Hindi as well. Funny enough I didn't have any issues with the Asian themed names, but maybe that's because I'm also an "Otaku" who is used to reading Japanese and Chinese names in books. However, like a lot of fantasy or sci-fi books for that matter, it's a common theme to find names that are odd or unpronounceable. So, when reading such names, I oft just replace them mentally with just the few first letters. In any case, it wasn't a deal-breaker, and it didn't disrupt the flow of the novel.
Without giving away too many details, the story is about the protagonist "Annika Lindback" - a young woman with latent "Lekhaki" sorcery powers, who is out to find the culprit behind her mother's murder. Her mom was killed for taking a mysterious parcel containing a magical artifact that fills the classic Hitchcockian definition of a "MacGuffin" - or a mystery item that everyone wants, even though no one seems to know what it truly is.
Most of the action takes place in a dangerous port city called "Rike Sjostad" - a hellish town filled with smugglers that makes the pirates of Tortuga seem trustworthy.
Entering the mix is a secret agent "Neha", who is looking for the relic too, as is the rogue "Kai", whom everyone believes is the guilty murderer of Annika's mom, even though he's been framed. The conspiracy deepens, linking the 3 characters to collide together, first at sea, then on land, as they attempt to unlock secrets and solve a mystery that only deepens the further they explore it. Crooked cops, thugs, and dark sorcerers abound, all of whom are in a Maltese-Falcon-like mad dash for this prized relic known as a "Tianwang" - a sphere of weaponized sorcery technology.
I found this novel to be very unique and original in its premise and execution, with great characters. I especially liked the depiction of how the "Lekhaki" mages utilize their shakti sorcery powers. I really liked the character of Zhang Kai - a dark antihero who is conflicted emotionally and perhaps spiritually as well.
This book, "The Shrouded Port", is the first of a series of books based on these characters, and I look forward to reading more from this author, Inez Rodk. She doesn't just tell a story; she takes the reader there to experience it along with the characters. It's a great read for fans of magical fantasy with a crime thriller twist.
June 28, 2024
"...by the White Trees, you are dense, aren't you? This is Rike Sjöstad. There are different rules here."
In the compelling world Rodk has created, our 3 main characters all find this quote to be true in varying degrees. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next two in this series.
World Building: Starting with the world building, I think Rodk did a good job providing enough information and embedded clues to make this world feel rich and real. I appreciate when a book isn't a lore dump, and when a reader can infer things about the cultures of a world through actions and interactions of our characters. I can't wait to learn more about this world. An aspect I really enjoyed was the complicated politics, regional cultures, and corruption found in the world.
Magic System: This isn't an entirely novel idea for magic being something outlawed from a war old ago and information being lost over time. Nor is the idea of magic being powered by blood new either. Did I still like it, for sure. It was fairly easy to understand, and because so much about it has been lost to time, the reader isn't left confused any more than the characters are 🤣
Characters: Speaking of characters, in this book, we have 3 POV characters and a handful of side characters. I think all three main characters were well written, had their own voice, and generally played equal roles in moving our plot forward. I will be honest I found Zhong Kai and Neha Kadir far more likable than Annika, though based on the author's writing, I do feel this is deliberate. All characters have so much room to grow, and it was great to see how their interactions with each of the others changed over the course of the book.
Plot/Pacing: So the story and plot kept me intrigued from the first 5 pages with a murder and false arrest. From there, it was a whirlwind of twist and turns- many of which I didn't see coming.
Overall: This book is a great example of a gaslamp fantasy. Thus far it doesn't have any romantic elements in it, which was a nice pallete cleanser from a lot of the recent romantasy reads I've done lately.
In the compelling world Rodk has created, our 3 main characters all find this quote to be true in varying degrees. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the next two in this series.
World Building: Starting with the world building, I think Rodk did a good job providing enough information and embedded clues to make this world feel rich and real. I appreciate when a book isn't a lore dump, and when a reader can infer things about the cultures of a world through actions and interactions of our characters. I can't wait to learn more about this world. An aspect I really enjoyed was the complicated politics, regional cultures, and corruption found in the world.
Magic System: This isn't an entirely novel idea for magic being something outlawed from a war old ago and information being lost over time. Nor is the idea of magic being powered by blood new either. Did I still like it, for sure. It was fairly easy to understand, and because so much about it has been lost to time, the reader isn't left confused any more than the characters are 🤣
Characters: Speaking of characters, in this book, we have 3 POV characters and a handful of side characters. I think all three main characters were well written, had their own voice, and generally played equal roles in moving our plot forward. I will be honest I found Zhong Kai and Neha Kadir far more likable than Annika, though based on the author's writing, I do feel this is deliberate. All characters have so much room to grow, and it was great to see how their interactions with each of the others changed over the course of the book.
Plot/Pacing: So the story and plot kept me intrigued from the first 5 pages with a murder and false arrest. From there, it was a whirlwind of twist and turns- many of which I didn't see coming.
Overall: This book is a great example of a gaslamp fantasy. Thus far it doesn't have any romantic elements in it, which was a nice pallete cleanser from a lot of the recent romantasy reads I've done lately.
November 27, 2025
The Shrouded Port is the first in a trilogy of three unlikely people whose paths intertwine over and over again.
This first book focuses on Annika, who after her mother dies, is desperately searching for answers and that journey leads her to Neha, an officer who is determined to do what’s right no matter the cost, and to Zhong, a criminal who is stuck in a contract that forces him to work for THE major crime family in Rike Sjöstad.
This story was interesting because it felt like I was on an adventure with the characters. Inez Rodk is a great writer and her descriptions helped to set the scene in my mind as I read.
If you’ve ever watched the HBO show Warriors and liked it, or read Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo, then you’ll probably love this book and Zhong Kai especially!
Things I liked about this book:
The mystery or should I say, mysteries!
The different POV’s— I always love when we get different character’s perspectives.
The revolution, hidden powers, and Gotham City vibe 😉
Things I wasn’t the biggest fan of:
The cliffhanger! Honestly, after finishing this book I immediately went to find the next one so that I can find out what happens next!
But, other than that one thing I wasn’t a fan of is the way that two of the main characters seem to constantly change their minds and what side they are on. 🤷🏻♀️
However, overall, I genuinely enjoyed this story and will certainly be visiting Rike Sjöstad again to finish the journey and see what happens next.
This first book focuses on Annika, who after her mother dies, is desperately searching for answers and that journey leads her to Neha, an officer who is determined to do what’s right no matter the cost, and to Zhong, a criminal who is stuck in a contract that forces him to work for THE major crime family in Rike Sjöstad.
This story was interesting because it felt like I was on an adventure with the characters. Inez Rodk is a great writer and her descriptions helped to set the scene in my mind as I read.
If you’ve ever watched the HBO show Warriors and liked it, or read Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo, then you’ll probably love this book and Zhong Kai especially!
Things I liked about this book:
The mystery or should I say, mysteries!
The different POV’s— I always love when we get different character’s perspectives.
The revolution, hidden powers, and Gotham City vibe 😉
Things I wasn’t the biggest fan of:
The cliffhanger! Honestly, after finishing this book I immediately went to find the next one so that I can find out what happens next!
But, other than that one thing I wasn’t a fan of is the way that two of the main characters seem to constantly change their minds and what side they are on. 🤷🏻♀️
However, overall, I genuinely enjoyed this story and will certainly be visiting Rike Sjöstad again to finish the journey and see what happens next.
November 6, 2023
The Shrouded Port is described as a gas lamp dark fantasy novel and is volume one of a series of three books. It follows the adventures of three main characters, Annika, Neha and Zhong Kai who come from different backgrounds and cultures that appear to have a northern European and Asian feel about them. The story has a maritime theme, although much of the action takes place in a port city known as Rike Sjostad that is ruled by powerful merchants. All three characters are caught up in a race to acquire a strange artefact known to have originated from formidable wielders of blood magic known as the Lekhaki who were defeated in a Great War ages past. The artefact is thought to have tremendous destructive power which could threaten the current status quo and bring the Lehkaki back into power once more.
While the first few chapters took me time to get into the book and work my way through the names of places and people the story soon took off and kept me engaged throughout. It was nice to see illustrations at various points in the book and a map at the beginning to establish the geography and the places mentioned. The author has successfully conveyed the dark and foreboding atmosphere that lies beneath much of the story and has also effectively woven numerous twists to keep the reader turning the pages. The end of the story happened too quickly, but there is a volume two, which no doubt will continue this well written story.
While the first few chapters took me time to get into the book and work my way through the names of places and people the story soon took off and kept me engaged throughout. It was nice to see illustrations at various points in the book and a map at the beginning to establish the geography and the places mentioned. The author has successfully conveyed the dark and foreboding atmosphere that lies beneath much of the story and has also effectively woven numerous twists to keep the reader turning the pages. The end of the story happened too quickly, but there is a volume two, which no doubt will continue this well written story.
December 14, 2025
The Shrouded Port is a fun, action packed dark epic fantasy. Inez has kicked off such a fantastic world in this first book in the series.
We follow Annika, a young woman who's mother has just died under suspicious circumstances and is on a mission to seek the truth.
Neha, an officer working for an elite enforcement agency who is tasked to rid blood mages.
Kai, a blood mage in hiding and a refugee from a war-ravaged land, accused of Annikas mothers murder!
Their journeys start off separately, but soon become entwined in this corrupted world!
I have read one of the later interconnected books and it was really interesting to go back to the foundations of the story and world, right to the beginning and see one of my favourite characters in that later books story begin, prior to her magic, and how she saw the world before everything she knew changed! (Trying not to spoil anything here).
If you enjoy a fast-paced, cultural, brutal world, with epic adventure, a murder mystery throughout the story, and Unravelling secrets/truths, this book is for you.
A fantastic start to a series. I can't wait to see where we go in book 2!
Thank you Inez for gifting me this beautiful book. Though I have been a fairly quiet member, I am forever grateful for being on your team!
☆First In Dark Epic Fantasy Series
☆Epic Adventure
☆High Stakes
☆Forbidden Magic
☆Murder Mystery
☆Morally Grey Characters
☆Corruption
☆Multi Cultural
☆Multi POV
☆Unravelling Secrets
We follow Annika, a young woman who's mother has just died under suspicious circumstances and is on a mission to seek the truth.
Neha, an officer working for an elite enforcement agency who is tasked to rid blood mages.
Kai, a blood mage in hiding and a refugee from a war-ravaged land, accused of Annikas mothers murder!
Their journeys start off separately, but soon become entwined in this corrupted world!
I have read one of the later interconnected books and it was really interesting to go back to the foundations of the story and world, right to the beginning and see one of my favourite characters in that later books story begin, prior to her magic, and how she saw the world before everything she knew changed! (Trying not to spoil anything here).
If you enjoy a fast-paced, cultural, brutal world, with epic adventure, a murder mystery throughout the story, and Unravelling secrets/truths, this book is for you.
A fantastic start to a series. I can't wait to see where we go in book 2!
Thank you Inez for gifting me this beautiful book. Though I have been a fairly quiet member, I am forever grateful for being on your team!
☆First In Dark Epic Fantasy Series
☆Epic Adventure
☆High Stakes
☆Forbidden Magic
☆Murder Mystery
☆Morally Grey Characters
☆Corruption
☆Multi Cultural
☆Multi POV
☆Unravelling Secrets
December 8, 2025
The Shrouded Port was such a darkly enchanting read! ☁️💨 From the first chapter, you get swept in the world - a city of secrets, shadows, and danger in every alley. It’s the kind of book that had me wanting to curl up in a blanket with a hot chocolate, because you just know you’re about to be transported somewhere unforgettable 👀
Annika is such a fierce yet vulnerable heroine. Her battle with grief and determination made me root for her every step of the way ❤️🔥 and the city of Rome Sjöstad? It’s practically its own character - gritty, atmospheric, and dripping with mystery….
Rodk really balances the thrill off the plot with the emotional heart of the story and its characters. It’s not just about the shiny ostentatious magic and crime fighting/solving, it’s more about resilience and justice to find strength in a heavy world.
IF you’re into steampunk-esque gaslamp fantasy with strong heroines alongside morally complex side characters all in a setting that is alive under your fingers, this book is for you?
✨perfect for fans of moody fantasy, rainy-day escapism, and a story that lingers after the last page✨
Annika is such a fierce yet vulnerable heroine. Her battle with grief and determination made me root for her every step of the way ❤️🔥 and the city of Rome Sjöstad? It’s practically its own character - gritty, atmospheric, and dripping with mystery….
Rodk really balances the thrill off the plot with the emotional heart of the story and its characters. It’s not just about the shiny ostentatious magic and crime fighting/solving, it’s more about resilience and justice to find strength in a heavy world.
IF you’re into steampunk-esque gaslamp fantasy with strong heroines alongside morally complex side characters all in a setting that is alive under your fingers, this book is for you?
✨perfect for fans of moody fantasy, rainy-day escapism, and a story that lingers after the last page✨
March 10, 2025
This is absolutely one of the best fantasy novels I've ever read, from the deep, immersive worldbuilding and the captivating magic system to the high-stakes plot and unforgettable characters. Annika, Kai, and Neha live rent free in my brain, and I'm not mad about it at all. Each of them struggle to come to terms with their pasts and who they want to be. When their lives all crash together, it's clear they'll never be the same again. The blood magic is also spectacularly envisioned, and its impact on the plot and the characters make it feel like a living breathing character in the story in its own right. The city of Rike Sjöstad also feels like a character, with its dark underbelly, bustling port, and gaslamp vibe. The pieces all come together in this thrilling debut novel to create something truly dark and beautiful. If you like fantasy, this is a must-read!
October 19, 2025
Oh I'm kinda sad that I finished it, but so glad there's more books to the series. so happy about not having to wait for the next one 😅
Anyway I really enjoyed this magical adventure, the storyline is very intriguing indeed. I enjoyed the learning about the type of magic and hope to learn more of the ancient magic in the next one.
I loved the characters, all with their own personalities, good and bad. there are two characters were although ones in with the villains I feel they have a good heart 🤞 I guess we shall see in the next book - I hope and the other one I think is confused with doing what's right but is confused on what is right and what's wrong. to be fair I quite liked all the characters and their development throughout this book.
Okay enough chat I need to get my hands on the next one to see where this goes lol 😆
Anyway I really enjoyed this magical adventure, the storyline is very intriguing indeed. I enjoyed the learning about the type of magic and hope to learn more of the ancient magic in the next one.
I loved the characters, all with their own personalities, good and bad. there are two characters were although ones in with the villains I feel they have a good heart 🤞 I guess we shall see in the next book - I hope and the other one I think is confused with doing what's right but is confused on what is right and what's wrong. to be fair I quite liked all the characters and their development throughout this book.
Okay enough chat I need to get my hands on the next one to see where this goes lol 😆
June 5, 2024
Absolutely wonderful.
This book deserves 5 stars and more. I couldn’t put it down from the moment I started it.
Everything about it was fantastic, the world building the character development.
I loved the switching between the characters pov for each chapter, not a lot of authors can get that balance right but this one did.
I felt all the emotions of each character and felt connected to them in their own right.
I highly recommend this book if you love, mystery, magic, and action.
I cannot wait to read the next one.
This book deserves 5 stars and more. I couldn’t put it down from the moment I started it.
Everything about it was fantastic, the world building the character development.
I loved the switching between the characters pov for each chapter, not a lot of authors can get that balance right but this one did.
I felt all the emotions of each character and felt connected to them in their own right.
I highly recommend this book if you love, mystery, magic, and action.
I cannot wait to read the next one.
June 14, 2024
Magic, Mystery, Crime - what more could you want for a story?
The only thing that was hard for me was the multiple POV’s and the lengthy chapters, yes I was aware that there were going to be other POV’s.
I did really enjoy the story and I think it was really well written, although with the names of places it made it seem like it was based in Iceland or Norway.
Really interesting and in depth story I really enjoyed Henrik's character and how nonchalant he is ⭐️
The only thing that was hard for me was the multiple POV’s and the lengthy chapters, yes I was aware that there were going to be other POV’s.
I did really enjoy the story and I think it was really well written, although with the names of places it made it seem like it was based in Iceland or Norway.
Really interesting and in depth story I really enjoyed Henrik's character and how nonchalant he is ⭐️
October 6, 2023
What a wonderful reading experience! First of all, the book's interior included some of the world-building graphics of landscapes, maps, and also characters, that were a wonderful way to deepen the story elements. The writing is wonderful and the story was a fantastic adventure. To lovers of fantasy fiction, I give this book my highest recommendation.
November 21, 2023
I was thoroughly impressed by this book. The intrigue and characters were well-written and came together nicely with a lot of fun twists.
I was most impressed by the depictions of blood magic - few authors can make you feel the magic for yourself as you read, but I felt swept up in the almost hypnotic descriptions. Incredibly well done.
I was most impressed by the depictions of blood magic - few authors can make you feel the magic for yourself as you read, but I felt swept up in the almost hypnotic descriptions. Incredibly well done.
May 20, 2024
You guys!!When I got this book in the mail. It was so cute!!! It was cutely designed on the inside and outside too, it showed all the characters of the sequel, and it was so vintage! And the STORY guys…like go read it yourself, that’s how good it is! The strong Female lead is everything 👌🏻😊
Go run, not walk and buy it!!!
Go run, not walk and buy it!!!
September 5, 2024
This is such an amazing story!
I really loved the characters, each one has their own voice, identity, story and they weave through each other’s lives in ways I couldn’t predict.
The world building is insane! Each location is so individual and special - the cities are their own characters really and so much fun to explore.
I really recommend jumping into this series :)
I really loved the characters, each one has their own voice, identity, story and they weave through each other’s lives in ways I couldn’t predict.
The world building is insane! Each location is so individual and special - the cities are their own characters really and so much fun to explore.
I really recommend jumping into this series :)
July 20, 2024
Incredibly written story with such lovable characters and an incredible plot, would 100% recomend!❤
January 28, 2025
Beautiful writing style with gritty world building. Well-developed characters and interesting magical powers. I can't wait to keep reading the series!
December 9, 2025
No because I will need 3-5 business days to really put my thoughts together for this one….but until then READ IT READ IT READ IT
December 10, 2025
If your fans of Six of Crows you will LOVE this! I was totally drawn in by every character and was hooked from the first few chapters! I loved this book so much and would recommend it! ✨
May 29, 2024
Great book! Love the main character, idk why but it gives me old fashioned mafia vibes haha.
December 6, 2025
This book is a great mix of things from different cultures; from Nordic influences and Indian cultural origins, then set in a city that feels inspired by Dutch culture in a way. The setting of the main storyline, Rike Sjöstad, feels a bit like Ketterdam from Six of Crows with the corruption, trade aspects and often being described as quite dark and misty.
There are 3 main characters (Neha, Annika and Kai) who end up working together after setting aside their differences and learning to tentatively trust each other. I liked the characters but did find Annika to be very arrogant at times. I hope she learns to be less so throughout the series.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. The world building was good, the characters well developed and well paced. It has some intense scenes and the overall vibe is a darker fantasy. The magic system is interesting too.
Thank you so much to Inez Rodk and Coghurst Press for a copy of this book to review.
There are 3 main characters (Neha, Annika and Kai) who end up working together after setting aside their differences and learning to tentatively trust each other. I liked the characters but did find Annika to be very arrogant at times. I hope she learns to be less so throughout the series.
Overall I really enjoyed the book. The world building was good, the characters well developed and well paced. It has some intense scenes and the overall vibe is a darker fantasy. The magic system is interesting too.
Thank you so much to Inez Rodk and Coghurst Press for a copy of this book to review.
December 10, 2025
What a unique and exciting book! I loved the magical system - so unlike anything else I have ever read about. Action packed and had me desperate to know what happens!
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