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Blade of Shadows #2
Darkness of Time
The highly anticipated second book in the Blade of Shadows Series....
Evil stalked them across time. The love of Olivia James’ life is locked in mortal combat with his sworn enemy when Olivia recites the mysterious scriptures on her ancient dagger and catapults them all to 1812 Americas. She awakens alone on a battle-scarred field. But an unstoppable evil has followed her. Balthazar, the man who murdered Olivia’s mother, has come back to haunt and torment Olivia. Cunning and malevolent, the embodiment of the ultimate darkness, Balthazar is on the hunt for all Timebornes—people like Olivia. Balthazar is a ruthless demon who’s vowed to destroy anyone who stands in the way of his relentless pursuit of deadly power. He won’t hesitate to kill her or anyone who tries to protect her. As the threats to their lives escalate and dangerous, long-hidden truths are revealed, Olivia and Roman may be torn apart forever. The only way to save their future will be to untangle the secrets from the past. But can they survive the darkness hunting them?
Continue your adventure with Darkness of Time, the second book in the Blade of Shadows series!
***Please note this is a continuous series and would need to be read in order!
Trigger Violence, and Child Loss
Evil stalked them across time. The love of Olivia James’ life is locked in mortal combat with his sworn enemy when Olivia recites the mysterious scriptures on her ancient dagger and catapults them all to 1812 Americas. She awakens alone on a battle-scarred field. But an unstoppable evil has followed her. Balthazar, the man who murdered Olivia’s mother, has come back to haunt and torment Olivia. Cunning and malevolent, the embodiment of the ultimate darkness, Balthazar is on the hunt for all Timebornes—people like Olivia. Balthazar is a ruthless demon who’s vowed to destroy anyone who stands in the way of his relentless pursuit of deadly power. He won’t hesitate to kill her or anyone who tries to protect her. As the threats to their lives escalate and dangerous, long-hidden truths are revealed, Olivia and Roman may be torn apart forever. The only way to save their future will be to untangle the secrets from the past. But can they survive the darkness hunting them?
Continue your adventure with Darkness of Time, the second book in the Blade of Shadows series!
***Please note this is a continuous series and would need to be read in order!
Trigger Violence, and Child Loss
586 pages, Paperback
Published August 1, 2023
922 people are currently reading
10473 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
September 3, 2023
I’m pretty hesitant of where to start this review… I really wanted to love this one after being left wanting for more out of Timeborne. I had the same issue with this book as I did with its predecessor, I feel like it moved too fast. It felt like the plot progressed solely for the sake of progression, I felt like I was accepting things happened simply because I was told they happened and not because I experienced them.
Even the smut, which I was promised in abundance felt lacking. It felt awkwardly written and rushed. I read this ARC on my phones Kindle app and the smut lasted barely a page on my phone. It read like two inexperienced teens and not the two experienced adults these characters were vaguely described to be. These characters were described to be madly in love, but I felt no on page chemistry sadly.
Similarly, it felt like some twists felt unnecessary; without spoiling anything it basically felt like an event happened for no reason as it was backtracked with another twist for what felt like dramatic effect. Most importantly however, I think that this book grievously left out a huge trigger warning so let me add one here in all caps— TRIGGER WARNING THIS BOOK CONTAINS TALK OF MISCARRIAGE/CHILD LOSS GRIEF!
Lastly, and I’m honestly disappointed I even have to get into this… but I was really put off when I first got the acceptance email for the ARC and saw that anyone rating under 4 stars will be removed from the team. I cringed even more when I got an email after posting my initial 3 star rating telling me to take the rating down for at least two weeks after release day. This seems to be the new toxic trend amongst the ARC community, and to me it just screams distasteful. The whole point of an ARC is to HONESTLY review a book, and I would be being dishonest to all prospective readers if I lied and said this book was the next big thing, when I just didn’t feel that way. I would also being a disservice to the author if I implied their writing was flawless, when theres still loads of room for improvement.
Even the smut, which I was promised in abundance felt lacking. It felt awkwardly written and rushed. I read this ARC on my phones Kindle app and the smut lasted barely a page on my phone. It read like two inexperienced teens and not the two experienced adults these characters were vaguely described to be. These characters were described to be madly in love, but I felt no on page chemistry sadly.
Similarly, it felt like some twists felt unnecessary; without spoiling anything it basically felt like an event happened for no reason as it was backtracked with another twist for what felt like dramatic effect. Most importantly however, I think that this book grievously left out a huge trigger warning so let me add one here in all caps— TRIGGER WARNING THIS BOOK CONTAINS TALK OF MISCARRIAGE/CHILD LOSS GRIEF!
Lastly, and I’m honestly disappointed I even have to get into this… but I was really put off when I first got the acceptance email for the ARC and saw that anyone rating under 4 stars will be removed from the team. I cringed even more when I got an email after posting my initial 3 star rating telling me to take the rating down for at least two weeks after release day. This seems to be the new toxic trend amongst the ARC community, and to me it just screams distasteful. The whole point of an ARC is to HONESTLY review a book, and I would be being dishonest to all prospective readers if I lied and said this book was the next big thing, when I just didn’t feel that way. I would also being a disservice to the author if I implied their writing was flawless, when theres still loads of room for improvement.
September 7, 2024
Idk. I want to like these books but I’m going to call it after this second one. I’m confused by the great reviews? Like what am I missing. The first book was definitely better than this one but not by a lot. This one I ended up skipping around a bunch just to get to the point and see what happens HOPING it would get better. It doesn’t.
1.5-2 stars
1.5-2 stars
December 8, 2024
These books have potential, but the writing is cheesy, and as if written by a child high-school.
September 5, 2024
I did not like the first book but the story has so much potential and I wanted to see how the story would progress and end.
This book is so much worse than the first. The story barely makes sense to me. Just not well thought out. The writing is not good either. The dialogue just feels so forced and the conversations with native Americans is so cringy.
This author seems determined to insert a fierce feminine protagonist into times and rewrite history. This character would have been killed so many times. A woman from 2019 Seattle does not stand a chance against Roman gladiators in hand to hand combat relying on brute force. Nor would she get away with being so rude to people in those times.
The second book gets more ridiculous with this type of stuff. Fighting against American soldiers and natives and being a smart ass all the time would just get her killed quicker. I would believe this more if she had supernatural strength or ability. Or if she was exceptionally smart and cunning then MAYBE I could believe some of the plot. But she is just a normal girl who can time travel and apparently fight off multiple men with her hands and understand basically every language.
I rarely dislike books so much but this was unreadable.
I only made it through like the first quarter of the book before I had to put it down.
This book is so much worse than the first. The story barely makes sense to me. Just not well thought out. The writing is not good either. The dialogue just feels so forced and the conversations with native Americans is so cringy.
This author seems determined to insert a fierce feminine protagonist into times and rewrite history. This character would have been killed so many times. A woman from 2019 Seattle does not stand a chance against Roman gladiators in hand to hand combat relying on brute force. Nor would she get away with being so rude to people in those times.
The second book gets more ridiculous with this type of stuff. Fighting against American soldiers and natives and being a smart ass all the time would just get her killed quicker. I would believe this more if she had supernatural strength or ability. Or if she was exceptionally smart and cunning then MAYBE I could believe some of the plot. But she is just a normal girl who can time travel and apparently fight off multiple men with her hands and understand basically every language.
I rarely dislike books so much but this was unreadable.
I only made it through like the first quarter of the book before I had to put it down.
September 5, 2023
Book 2 Tropes:
💀 Found Family
💀 Fated Mates
💀 Vicious Villain
💀 Time Travel Romance
💀 Hidden Truth
💀 Emotional
Make sure to read this series! Sara knocked it out of the park with this one, taking us from Ancient Rome to 1812 Americas.
This book was action packed and filled with so many revelations, my mind was blown every chapter or so. There was a time when I nearly cried, y’all.
I am so excited for the next book already. I need answers. I must know more about the villain figure and I need Sara to give our characters some reprieve man cause these guys have been through it all and I have a feeling that she will put them through the ringer again.
Beware of the ending. it’s a cliffhanger in typical Sara fashion but I loved it!
💀 Found Family
💀 Fated Mates
💀 Vicious Villain
💀 Time Travel Romance
💀 Hidden Truth
💀 Emotional
Make sure to read this series! Sara knocked it out of the park with this one, taking us from Ancient Rome to 1812 Americas.
This book was action packed and filled with so many revelations, my mind was blown every chapter or so. There was a time when I nearly cried, y’all.
I am so excited for the next book already. I need answers. I must know more about the villain figure and I need Sara to give our characters some reprieve man cause these guys have been through it all and I have a feeling that she will put them through the ringer again.
Beware of the ending. it’s a cliffhanger in typical Sara fashion but I loved it!
September 3, 2023
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.
Another CRAZY cliffhanger ending that left me in shock and desperate for the next book like after book 1! Darkness of Time picks up immediately after the events of Timeborne. There are a lot of twists and turns and some characters had some great growth, but some characters i felt went backwards and were more immature in this story. I still had a great time and cannot wait for book 3!
Another CRAZY cliffhanger ending that left me in shock and desperate for the next book like after book 1! Darkness of Time picks up immediately after the events of Timeborne. There are a lot of twists and turns and some characters had some great growth, but some characters i felt went backwards and were more immature in this story. I still had a great time and cannot wait for book 3!
July 7, 2025
The first book left me hooked. This second book was just as good. the characters continue to feel relatable. The plot was not confusing and was easy to follow along with. The introduction of new characters fits into the story well. I look forward to the rest of the series !
* I'm apart of the ARC team, a free copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review *
* I'm apart of the ARC team, a free copy was given to me in exchange for an honest review *
August 23, 2023
Great second book!
Picked up right where the first book ended and got right into the action and the story line!
Olivia and Roman
They time traveled from Rome and ended up in the 1800s, Olivia, Roman, and marciellus . They had to find eachother because they had not landed on the same ground. Not knowing if they were in the same place together, they both had to survive in the war that was happening around them. Roman and Marcillus each were captured by American soldiers because they thought they were Indians, and Olivia was captured by soldiers bc she was helping two girls that were tied up trailing a wagon.
A lot happens in this book, we are introduced to characters from their pasts and we see that they are all interconnected (which is awesome).
Without spoiling anything, all these guys are tasked with finding someone and something that will help in the killing of Balthazar! People must work together in order for this to happen.
Ahhh i just can’t wait for the next book bc of course we are left on a cliff hanger and it’s a good one at that!!!! Can’t wait 🙌🏻
Picked up right where the first book ended and got right into the action and the story line!
Olivia and Roman
They time traveled from Rome and ended up in the 1800s, Olivia, Roman, and marciellus . They had to find eachother because they had not landed on the same ground. Not knowing if they were in the same place together, they both had to survive in the war that was happening around them. Roman and Marcillus each were captured by American soldiers because they thought they were Indians, and Olivia was captured by soldiers bc she was helping two girls that were tied up trailing a wagon.
A lot happens in this book, we are introduced to characters from their pasts and we see that they are all interconnected (which is awesome).
Without spoiling anything, all these guys are tasked with finding someone and something that will help in the killing of Balthazar! People must work together in order for this to happen.
Ahhh i just can’t wait for the next book bc of course we are left on a cliff hanger and it’s a good one at that!!!! Can’t wait 🙌🏻
July 2, 2025
You know...
I am not the biggest fan of leaving negativity. Especially when it comes to literature. But this book really left a sour taste in my mouth. It's not often that I don't finish a book. I consider something that I've invested time and money in as something that needs to be completed. With that being said, I'd really REALLY hoped that as a second book, it would've gotten better with transitions and conversations.
I'm only going to say that if you came to book 2 with hopes of improvement... back away slowly and go to another series. That is all.
I am not the biggest fan of leaving negativity. Especially when it comes to literature. But this book really left a sour taste in my mouth. It's not often that I don't finish a book. I consider something that I've invested time and money in as something that needs to be completed. With that being said, I'd really REALLY hoped that as a second book, it would've gotten better with transitions and conversations.
I'm only going to say that if you came to book 2 with hopes of improvement... back away slowly and go to another series. That is all.
January 15, 2025
Such great characters, and I was happy to see the
storyline dove right back in where book 1 ended. I
do love a good time travel book, and it's made even
better by the fact that in Sara's books, we're
transported to different locations each time! Will
definitely continue on to the rest of the series.
storyline dove right back in where book 1 ended. I
do love a good time travel book, and it's made even
better by the fact that in Sara's books, we're
transported to different locations each time! Will
definitely continue on to the rest of the series.
September 4, 2023
THANK YOU Sara Samuels for the opportunity to read Darkness of Time as an ARC🖤 I am leaving this review voluntarily and these are my honest thoughts, and opinions.
⏳𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: 𝚃𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚃𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
⏳𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
⏳𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒: 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙱𝚕𝚊𝚍𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚂𝚑𝚊𝚍𝚘𝚠𝚜 𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚜 - 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚞𝚘𝚞𝚜 𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝟷, 𝚃𝚒𝚖𝚎𝚋𝚘𝚛𝚗𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚜 𝚐𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝟸𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔🖤
✨𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐌𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐍 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐒✨
WOW! I LOVED this book! I just want to wrap my girl Olivia up in a big hug and fight anyone who tries to hurt her!
Darkness of Time picks up literally right where Timeborne leaves off. Olivia, Roman, and Marcellious have time travelled from Ancient Rome to America during the 1800s. Roman and Marcellious land in one place and Olivia lands in another. They work on finding each other and when they do, the book starts to get crazy!
I really loved this continuation so much. It was extremely action-packed and fast paced but I loved it. I couldn’t put it down after about 50% of the way through. Olivia and Roman are probably one of my favorite book couples of all time. Their love is just pure light🩷 They went through a lot in this book, and they deserve the world.
I was also SO happy to get more Marcellious in this book! We learn a lot more about him and his story, and I really hope we get to see even more of him in book 3! The introduction of more side characters was amazing! I adore Emily, Leaping Deer, and Grey Feather so much. The villain of this book, Balthazar, is a TRUE villain. He really is just terrible and I can’t wait until he gets what is coming to him!
Overall, this was a beautifully written book. There was a lot of romance and suspense, and it kept me hooked throughout its entirety! There were so many twists and turns, while at the same time being easy to follow and keep up with. I loved everything about it and I think Sara did an amazing job with creating imagery for the readers. There is so much Native American lore in this book and that’s not something I see very often. I loved learning more about the Native American culture!
⭐️I highly recommend this series! The first book in the series is Timeborne and both books are available to read now!⭐️
‼️Please do ensure you check Trigger Warnings before reading this book. Olivia goes through many personal traumatic experiences in this book.‼️
⏳𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: 𝚃𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝚃𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚕 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
⏳𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️//𝟻
⏳𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒: 𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟸 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝙱𝚕𝚊𝚍𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚂𝚑𝚊𝚍𝚘𝚠𝚜 𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚜 - 𝚃𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚜 𝚊 𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚞𝚘𝚞𝚜 𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚖𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍 𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝟷, 𝚃𝚒𝚖𝚎𝚋𝚘𝚛𝚗𝚎, 𝚝𝚘 𝚔𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚒𝚜 𝚐𝚘𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝟸𝚗𝚍 𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔🖤
✨𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 𝐌𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐍 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐑𝐒✨
WOW! I LOVED this book! I just want to wrap my girl Olivia up in a big hug and fight anyone who tries to hurt her!
Darkness of Time picks up literally right where Timeborne leaves off. Olivia, Roman, and Marcellious have time travelled from Ancient Rome to America during the 1800s. Roman and Marcellious land in one place and Olivia lands in another. They work on finding each other and when they do, the book starts to get crazy!
I really loved this continuation so much. It was extremely action-packed and fast paced but I loved it. I couldn’t put it down after about 50% of the way through. Olivia and Roman are probably one of my favorite book couples of all time. Their love is just pure light🩷 They went through a lot in this book, and they deserve the world.
I was also SO happy to get more Marcellious in this book! We learn a lot more about him and his story, and I really hope we get to see even more of him in book 3! The introduction of more side characters was amazing! I adore Emily, Leaping Deer, and Grey Feather so much. The villain of this book, Balthazar, is a TRUE villain. He really is just terrible and I can’t wait until he gets what is coming to him!
Overall, this was a beautifully written book. There was a lot of romance and suspense, and it kept me hooked throughout its entirety! There were so many twists and turns, while at the same time being easy to follow and keep up with. I loved everything about it and I think Sara did an amazing job with creating imagery for the readers. There is so much Native American lore in this book and that’s not something I see very often. I loved learning more about the Native American culture!
⭐️I highly recommend this series! The first book in the series is Timeborne and both books are available to read now!⭐️
‼️Please do ensure you check Trigger Warnings before reading this book. Olivia goes through many personal traumatic experiences in this book.‼️
August 30, 2023
🖤 Darkness in Time 🖤
Blade of Shadows ( Book 2 )
By Sara Samuel's ⚜️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
We continued the journey with Olivia and Roman, picking up right where we left off in book 1 . The seamless continuation of their story sets this book apart, making it refreshingly easy to follow.
Sara's writing style maintains its trademark, guiding readers through the narrative with effortless grace. Her talent for crafting robust, determined characters shines through once again. ✨️
Sara skillfully employs unexpected twists that ingeniously reshape the entire narrative landscape. What initially seemed like chance occurrences at the beginning of the book are deftly woven into intricate plot twists, culminating towards the story's climactic finale. With these unexpected turns make us readers guessing at every turn of what's going to happen.🤯
Amidst the array of new characters introduced, a standout is the captivating new villain. Distinctly different from the villain of the first book, his presence injects excitement and intrigue into the narrative. However, while these new additions play roles, there's a longing for more moments with Olivia and Roman. The profound chemistry they share, despite being from different Eras.
Sara's adept storytelling and plot development between Olivia and Roman makes this sequel a compelling read. The incorporation of fresh characters and expertly executed twists breathe new life into the series, promising an engaging experience from start to finish.
The way this book concludes with yet another cliffhanger leaves you yearning for the next installment. The anticipation for the upcoming book might be quite a wait, but there's a certainty that when it finally arrives, the satisfaction will make every moment of patience worthwhile.🗡🖤
Darkness of time will be out 5th September⚜️
Book 2 Tropes :
🗡 Time Travel
🗡Romance
🗡 Hidden Truth
🗡Strong FMC
🗡Emotional
🗡Fated Mates
Check out Trigger Warning before reading ⚠️
Thank you so much @storytellersarasamuels
For letting me be part of your reviewing team!! 🫶
Blade of Shadows ( Book 2 )
By Sara Samuel's ⚜️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
We continued the journey with Olivia and Roman, picking up right where we left off in book 1 . The seamless continuation of their story sets this book apart, making it refreshingly easy to follow.
Sara's writing style maintains its trademark, guiding readers through the narrative with effortless grace. Her talent for crafting robust, determined characters shines through once again. ✨️
Sara skillfully employs unexpected twists that ingeniously reshape the entire narrative landscape. What initially seemed like chance occurrences at the beginning of the book are deftly woven into intricate plot twists, culminating towards the story's climactic finale. With these unexpected turns make us readers guessing at every turn of what's going to happen.🤯
Amidst the array of new characters introduced, a standout is the captivating new villain. Distinctly different from the villain of the first book, his presence injects excitement and intrigue into the narrative. However, while these new additions play roles, there's a longing for more moments with Olivia and Roman. The profound chemistry they share, despite being from different Eras.
Sara's adept storytelling and plot development between Olivia and Roman makes this sequel a compelling read. The incorporation of fresh characters and expertly executed twists breathe new life into the series, promising an engaging experience from start to finish.
The way this book concludes with yet another cliffhanger leaves you yearning for the next installment. The anticipation for the upcoming book might be quite a wait, but there's a certainty that when it finally arrives, the satisfaction will make every moment of patience worthwhile.🗡🖤
Darkness of time will be out 5th September⚜️
Book 2 Tropes :
🗡 Time Travel
🗡Romance
🗡 Hidden Truth
🗡Strong FMC
🗡Emotional
🗡Fated Mates
Check out Trigger Warning before reading ⚠️
Thank you so much @storytellersarasamuels
For letting me be part of your reviewing team!! 🫶
January 31, 2024
First and foremost, this book continues the pace and quality set in the first book, Timeborne. However, with this continuation, there are trigger warnings to heed. The subject matter is described with raw truth, but also a quiet dignity
I almost felt as if I was jumping through time with Olivia and Roman as we land in America, 1812. What an era to jump into! The war is raging, our heroes are each taken prisoner, new characters are introduced and Marcellus is back! (love love love Marcellus) and, we meet the evil Balthazar (and he is a truly evil villain, like, armchair gripping, screaming at your book, wanting to fight the fight alongside Olivia, evil) Roman and Olivia must find each other again and, find the person that will help them to avenge the death of Olivias mother
The Darkness of Time weaves back artfully to Timeborne in its references and this web is glistening, each anchor strand will take us to a different book in the series and I am absolutely here for it!
Sar Samuels, artfully provides action, drama, suspense, romance, and just the right amount of spice to keep in contet with the narrative without overshadowing the storyline. Sara is immensely talented at transporting the reader to a different world, her prose is highly illustrative and the worldbuilding is absolutely on point (and bearing in mind it is a completely different world to the last book, with whole new experiences for the characters to navigate and understand, the amount of work that Samuels must have put into research and drafting is highly commendable)
Elegant, graceful, unpredictable. The narrative weaves and ducks, holding on to the reader tight through every nuance, the highs, lows, terrors and triumphs. Sara Samuels has absolutely carved out her own section of the Fantasy genre and is dominating with this series
I am truly hooked and already have Timebound on pre-order. I cannot get enough of this series (and as a devout Whovian to acknowledge that Olivia is n an equal footing with my favourite Doctors, this is no small praise, no small praise at all
I almost felt as if I was jumping through time with Olivia and Roman as we land in America, 1812. What an era to jump into! The war is raging, our heroes are each taken prisoner, new characters are introduced and Marcellus is back! (love love love Marcellus) and, we meet the evil Balthazar (and he is a truly evil villain, like, armchair gripping, screaming at your book, wanting to fight the fight alongside Olivia, evil) Roman and Olivia must find each other again and, find the person that will help them to avenge the death of Olivias mother
The Darkness of Time weaves back artfully to Timeborne in its references and this web is glistening, each anchor strand will take us to a different book in the series and I am absolutely here for it!
Sar Samuels, artfully provides action, drama, suspense, romance, and just the right amount of spice to keep in contet with the narrative without overshadowing the storyline. Sara is immensely talented at transporting the reader to a different world, her prose is highly illustrative and the worldbuilding is absolutely on point (and bearing in mind it is a completely different world to the last book, with whole new experiences for the characters to navigate and understand, the amount of work that Samuels must have put into research and drafting is highly commendable)
Elegant, graceful, unpredictable. The narrative weaves and ducks, holding on to the reader tight through every nuance, the highs, lows, terrors and triumphs. Sara Samuels has absolutely carved out her own section of the Fantasy genre and is dominating with this series
I am truly hooked and already have Timebound on pre-order. I cannot get enough of this series (and as a devout Whovian to acknowledge that Olivia is n an equal footing with my favourite Doctors, this is no small praise, no small praise at all
September 9, 2023
This is book 2 in a continuous series called Blade of Shadows!
Can I say I was absolutely excited not only to connect with Sara, but I was not sure what to expect when I started the first book. Now I’m so ready to see what’s next. She’s done such an amazing job with the time traveling concept & to never be sure what to expect when it comes to a story. AMAZING.
Read the blurb and tropes below!
🖤Emotional
✨Found Family
🖤Fated Mates
✨Time Travel Fantasy
🖤Hidden Truth
✨Vicious Villain
Evil stalked them across time. The love of Olivia James’ life is locked in mortal combat with his sworn enemy when Olivia recites the mysterious scriptures on her ancient dagger and catapults them all to 1812 Americas. She awakens alone on a battle-scarred field. But an unstoppable evil has followed her.
Balthazar, the man who murd/ered Olivia’s mother, has come back to haunt and torment Olivia. Cunning and malevolent, the embodiment of the ultimate darkness, Balthazar is on the hunt for all Timebornes—people like Olivia. Balthazar is a ruthless demon who’s vowed to destroy anyone who stands in the way of his relentless pursuit of deadly power. He won’t hesitate to ki!! her or anyone who tries to protect her.
As the threats to their lives escalate and dangerous, long-hidden truths are revealed, Olivia and Roman may be torn apart forever. The only way to save their future will be to untangle the secrets from the past. But can they survive the darkness hunting them?
Continue your adventure with Darkness of Time, the second book in the Blade of Shadows series!!! This is a series, no matter what genre you like or prefer, you’ll somehow find your way unable to stop reading until you realize the book is done. Need not worry, there’s still time for Olivia, and you.
Can I say I was absolutely excited not only to connect with Sara, but I was not sure what to expect when I started the first book. Now I’m so ready to see what’s next. She’s done such an amazing job with the time traveling concept & to never be sure what to expect when it comes to a story. AMAZING.
Read the blurb and tropes below!
🖤Emotional
✨Found Family
🖤Fated Mates
✨Time Travel Fantasy
🖤Hidden Truth
✨Vicious Villain
Evil stalked them across time. The love of Olivia James’ life is locked in mortal combat with his sworn enemy when Olivia recites the mysterious scriptures on her ancient dagger and catapults them all to 1812 Americas. She awakens alone on a battle-scarred field. But an unstoppable evil has followed her.
Balthazar, the man who murd/ered Olivia’s mother, has come back to haunt and torment Olivia. Cunning and malevolent, the embodiment of the ultimate darkness, Balthazar is on the hunt for all Timebornes—people like Olivia. Balthazar is a ruthless demon who’s vowed to destroy anyone who stands in the way of his relentless pursuit of deadly power. He won’t hesitate to ki!! her or anyone who tries to protect her.
As the threats to their lives escalate and dangerous, long-hidden truths are revealed, Olivia and Roman may be torn apart forever. The only way to save their future will be to untangle the secrets from the past. But can they survive the darkness hunting them?
Continue your adventure with Darkness of Time, the second book in the Blade of Shadows series!!! This is a series, no matter what genre you like or prefer, you’ll somehow find your way unable to stop reading until you realize the book is done. Need not worry, there’s still time for Olivia, and you.
August 3, 2023
"Darkness of Time" dragged me into the storyline right away because the plot is very interesting, and I wanted to find out what would happen to the main characters, Olivia and Roman. There are many unexpected plot twists that I did not see coming, and once you read them, you will want to read the book again because you will not believe what you have read. I had to reread several moments twice because my brain did not see it coming.
I want to emphasize that the author skillfully employs language to enhance the readability and immersion of the story. The book is rich with intricate details, and it's evident that the author put in extensive research to craft this compelling narrative. Moreover, I must mention the significant character development exhibited by Olivia and other characters in the book. While in the previous installment, Olivia may have come across as bratty, in this one, she emerges as a mature and resourceful woman, fully aware of what it takes to survive. Additionally, the introduction of the character Balthazar adds a new dimension to the story. His vicious and cruel nature at times made me genuinely empathize with the other characters and the challenges they face.
The chemistry between the characters is astonishing and heartwarming. I could feel how Roman was in love with Olivia and how he expressed his love for her. Additionally, this book has some very spicy scenes, which I did not see coming.
Make sure to check for trigger warnings that may appear in the book.
For everyone who loves fantasy and time travel romance books, do not hesitate to preorder the book, which is coming on September 5, and trust me, you will enjoy it.
I want to emphasize that the author skillfully employs language to enhance the readability and immersion of the story. The book is rich with intricate details, and it's evident that the author put in extensive research to craft this compelling narrative. Moreover, I must mention the significant character development exhibited by Olivia and other characters in the book. While in the previous installment, Olivia may have come across as bratty, in this one, she emerges as a mature and resourceful woman, fully aware of what it takes to survive. Additionally, the introduction of the character Balthazar adds a new dimension to the story. His vicious and cruel nature at times made me genuinely empathize with the other characters and the challenges they face.
The chemistry between the characters is astonishing and heartwarming. I could feel how Roman was in love with Olivia and how he expressed his love for her. Additionally, this book has some very spicy scenes, which I did not see coming.
Make sure to check for trigger warnings that may appear in the book.
For everyone who loves fantasy and time travel romance books, do not hesitate to preorder the book, which is coming on September 5, and trust me, you will enjoy it.
September 10, 2023
Blade of shadows book 2
By Sara samuels
Plot:
Balthazar, the man who murdered Olivia’s mother, has come back to haunt and torment Olivia. Cunning and malevolent, the embodiment of the ultimate darkness, Balthazar is on the hunt for all Timebornes—people like Olivia. Balthazar is a ruthless demon who’s vowed to destroy anyone who stands in the way of his relentless pursuit of deadly power. He won’t hesitate to kill her or anyone who tries to protect her.
As the threats to their lives escalate and dangerous, long-hidden truths are revealed, Olivia and Roman may be torn apart forever. The only way to save their future will be to untangle the secrets from the past. But can they survive the darkness hunting them?
My thoughts:
This book was a really good read, I couldn’t put it down I felt a roller coaster of emotions and Sara knows how to do that when she writes her books, there was mystery , twists, violence and also kept wandering what would happen next, I’ve never went through a book so fast. I loved the relationship the two characters shared. I couldn’t wait for book two so I’m so happy I got to preorder the book and get to read it. Now I can keep the copy. I was happy to see more of Marcellious in this sequel. Also loved seeing Olivia with Roman together as a couple. You would have to read book 2 before reading book one so you can be in with the story since this is a continuation from the first book.
This book has a lot of action and it kept me interested and adventure. ❤️
#booktok #timetravelromance #bookofshadows #coverlustfriday #romancebooks #historicalromance
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2024
Book provided by Sara Samuels in exchange for an honest review:
Reading about time travel is thrilling because it allows the author the liberty to jump around into different time periods purely out of curiosity or creativity. I've thoroughly enjoyed the fantasy twist that Sara Samuels puts on time travel through the Timeborne. She does a nice job escalating the tension throughout this multi-POV plot while increasing the stakes for Olivia, Roman, Marcellious, and new addition to the party, Emily (who I love. I envision her having this old-timey accent.).
A few quirks to the story that I think are worth mentioning: Sometimes the dialogue feels forced or clunky-a little unnatural. And it does affect the flow throughout the first half of the book, but that goes away near the latter half. This does adversely affect the romance and spice, but I just ignored it and enjoyed the vibes along the way. (The spice was good either way. Nothing felt too out of place, and it was enjoyable regardless.)
Despite the quirks, I blew through Darkness of Time like no one's business. I loved how they jumped from Rome to 1812. Samuels does an excellent job replicating history so that the background context is sternly set, which allowed me to enjoy the fantasy/sci-fi side of the story while learning a little bit about native conflict, life, and community. There is a continual added depth to side characters like Olivia's mother, Moon Lee, and Marcellious. Definitely helped tie me into the story. And the most important part: I've very much enjoyed the plot twists and tangling of lives throughout the book. I look forward to read the next installment of the series.
Reading about time travel is thrilling because it allows the author the liberty to jump around into different time periods purely out of curiosity or creativity. I've thoroughly enjoyed the fantasy twist that Sara Samuels puts on time travel through the Timeborne. She does a nice job escalating the tension throughout this multi-POV plot while increasing the stakes for Olivia, Roman, Marcellious, and new addition to the party, Emily (who I love. I envision her having this old-timey accent.).
A few quirks to the story that I think are worth mentioning: Sometimes the dialogue feels forced or clunky-a little unnatural. And it does affect the flow throughout the first half of the book, but that goes away near the latter half. This does adversely affect the romance and spice, but I just ignored it and enjoyed the vibes along the way. (The spice was good either way. Nothing felt too out of place, and it was enjoyable regardless.)
Despite the quirks, I blew through Darkness of Time like no one's business. I loved how they jumped from Rome to 1812. Samuels does an excellent job replicating history so that the background context is sternly set, which allowed me to enjoy the fantasy/sci-fi side of the story while learning a little bit about native conflict, life, and community. There is a continual added depth to side characters like Olivia's mother, Moon Lee, and Marcellious. Definitely helped tie me into the story. And the most important part: I've very much enjoyed the plot twists and tangling of lives throughout the book. I look forward to read the next installment of the series.
August 29, 2023
Thank you so much to the author for the copy of this book for an honest review.
Please check trigger warnings before reading this book.
Following Olivia and Roman, this sequel to Timeborne takes off right where we left off, which made things so much easier to follow than it usually does in some fantasy novels.
Sara’s writing is so easy to follow, I love the way her story flows. I adore the way she writes characters that are so strong-willed and dynamic.
With some twists, Sara managed to turn the whole story around and turn some coincidences from the beginning of the book into a perfectly compelling and rounded plot twists that came to light towards the end of the story.
There were so many twists and turns throughout this story I couldn’t possibly predict what was going to happen next!
Although I loved the additions of the new characters (especially the new villain, he was so exciting to read about and so different compared to the antagonists in the first book) and the parts they got to play in the story, I wish we got more time with just Olivia and Roman. I simply adore the two of them, their chemistry is so good, especially for two people who come from two different times, they certainly were meant for each other.
I just wish the next book came sooner than 2024 because I neeeeed to know what happens next!
Please check trigger warnings before reading this book.
Following Olivia and Roman, this sequel to Timeborne takes off right where we left off, which made things so much easier to follow than it usually does in some fantasy novels.
Sara’s writing is so easy to follow, I love the way her story flows. I adore the way she writes characters that are so strong-willed and dynamic.
With some twists, Sara managed to turn the whole story around and turn some coincidences from the beginning of the book into a perfectly compelling and rounded plot twists that came to light towards the end of the story.
There were so many twists and turns throughout this story I couldn’t possibly predict what was going to happen next!
Although I loved the additions of the new characters (especially the new villain, he was so exciting to read about and so different compared to the antagonists in the first book) and the parts they got to play in the story, I wish we got more time with just Olivia and Roman. I simply adore the two of them, their chemistry is so good, especially for two people who come from two different times, they certainly were meant for each other.
I just wish the next book came sooner than 2024 because I neeeeed to know what happens next!
September 3, 2023
“Together, we can conquer anything, mi amore.”
When Roman and Marcellious are battling to the death in 207 AD Rome, Olivia recites the ancient scriptures on the daggers with a hope that it will work and they will time travel somewhere else. It works and they arrive in the early 1800s and Olivia is once again separated from Roman, with the darkness on their heels.
During the second book, we meet Balthazar who is determined to kill all Timebornes to achieve the most deadly power to rule the world. Along the journey, truths are revealed, secrets uncovered, questions answered and more questions arise as their adventure continues to try to stop the darkness and destroy Bathazar.
“You and I were destined to meet in whatever century we could. Even if we were to be separated, we’re soulmates. We’ll always find a way to be together.”
Rating: 5/5
Steam/Spice: 2/5
Tropes:
- time travel romance
- found family
- fated mates
- hidden truths
- vicious villain
Final thoughts: I went into book 2 with a whole list of questions and theories from book 1. This 2nd book was full of unexpected twists and turns along the way. Just when I thought I knew what would happen, something surprised me. Book 2 answered many of my questions from the 1st book and ended on a cliffhanger that left me with even more questions & theories. Cannot wait for book 3 to release in February! Thank you Sara for the opportunity to read book 2 as an ARC!
When Roman and Marcellious are battling to the death in 207 AD Rome, Olivia recites the ancient scriptures on the daggers with a hope that it will work and they will time travel somewhere else. It works and they arrive in the early 1800s and Olivia is once again separated from Roman, with the darkness on their heels.
During the second book, we meet Balthazar who is determined to kill all Timebornes to achieve the most deadly power to rule the world. Along the journey, truths are revealed, secrets uncovered, questions answered and more questions arise as their adventure continues to try to stop the darkness and destroy Bathazar.
“You and I were destined to meet in whatever century we could. Even if we were to be separated, we’re soulmates. We’ll always find a way to be together.”
Rating: 5/5
Steam/Spice: 2/5
Tropes:
- time travel romance
- found family
- fated mates
- hidden truths
- vicious villain
Final thoughts: I went into book 2 with a whole list of questions and theories from book 1. This 2nd book was full of unexpected twists and turns along the way. Just when I thought I knew what would happen, something surprised me. Book 2 answered many of my questions from the 1st book and ended on a cliffhanger that left me with even more questions & theories. Cannot wait for book 3 to release in February! Thank you Sara for the opportunity to read book 2 as an ARC!
April 17, 2024
Oliva James picks up immediately from the first book where she initiated a time travel of her, Roman and Marcellious from the deadly battle the men were locked in at the Colosseum in Ancient Rome. They’ve landed in the Americas during the war of 1812, but have gotten separated. Olivia is by herself and stumbles upon some captured women held hostage by American soldiers.
Later on the trio meets up and are ambushed by a Native American tribe later to discover confirmation of Marcellious & Roman are indeed brothers. The mysterious woman Olivia ran into that was held hostage is her SISTER. All these paths become intertwined, marriages take place… until Balthazar captures Olivia & Roman and reveals some more dark truths.
Overall I liked this book but when I was about a third through it I found a really long dry spell where I had a tough time picking it up again to finish - when the 4 travelers made it to the Native camp. It was information and history overload. But when I got over the halfway slump it got more interesting. I’m still not a fan of how cheesy some of the narrative is and a little predicting. But I’ve also read worse novels.
I was about to give this a 3 when I hit that dry spell but then it picked up. I won’t immediately rush into book 3 but I’ll eventually get to it.
Later on the trio meets up and are ambushed by a Native American tribe later to discover confirmation of Marcellious & Roman are indeed brothers. The mysterious woman Olivia ran into that was held hostage is her SISTER. All these paths become intertwined, marriages take place… until Balthazar captures Olivia & Roman and reveals some more dark truths.
Overall I liked this book but when I was about a third through it I found a really long dry spell where I had a tough time picking it up again to finish - when the 4 travelers made it to the Native camp. It was information and history overload. But when I got over the halfway slump it got more interesting. I’m still not a fan of how cheesy some of the narrative is and a little predicting. But I’ve also read worse novels.
I was about to give this a 3 when I hit that dry spell but then it picked up. I won’t immediately rush into book 3 but I’ll eventually get to it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟 - read
Darkness of Time by Sara Samuels
Let me just start by saying that after the first book I was dying to get my hands on the second one. I genuinely couldn't get enough.
While the plot of these books is actually really good, there are some things that aren't really my cup of tea. Some of the spice is a bit overdone for my taste and it feels that those qualities are what drive the MCs relationship. I'm not opposed to a bit of spice but I want the epic love to be there without it too and it feels a little underdeveloped currently.
Back to the plot; if you can get over what I've said above the actual plot of these books are really interesting. I do think this series has the capability to be really good with the current plotline and I'm hoping that the author will really take that and run rather than focusing so much on the nature of the MC relationship details.
Trigger warnings: there is open door spice, violence and miscarriage in this book.
For you if you like:
⏱️Time Travel
⏱️Found family
⏱️ Fated mates
⏱️Demons
Books you may also like:
📖Lost in Time by A.G. Riddle
📖Shadowhunter Chronicles by Cassandra Clare (many different series in different time periods)
📖Wheel of time
Darkness of Time by Sara Samuels
Let me just start by saying that after the first book I was dying to get my hands on the second one. I genuinely couldn't get enough.
While the plot of these books is actually really good, there are some things that aren't really my cup of tea. Some of the spice is a bit overdone for my taste and it feels that those qualities are what drive the MCs relationship. I'm not opposed to a bit of spice but I want the epic love to be there without it too and it feels a little underdeveloped currently.
Back to the plot; if you can get over what I've said above the actual plot of these books are really interesting. I do think this series has the capability to be really good with the current plotline and I'm hoping that the author will really take that and run rather than focusing so much on the nature of the MC relationship details.
Trigger warnings: there is open door spice, violence and miscarriage in this book.
For you if you like:
⏱️Time Travel
⏱️Found family
⏱️ Fated mates
⏱️Demons
Books you may also like:
📖Lost in Time by A.G. Riddle
📖Shadowhunter Chronicles by Cassandra Clare (many different series in different time periods)
📖Wheel of time
December 24, 2025
Thank you to the author for this ARC
This is book 2in a time travel sequel and I loved it. It was a great continuation to a fabulous book 1, Timeborne, that was a 5 star read for me.
At the end of the last book Olivia blasts Roman, his brother and her self to 1812, American Revolutionary times and this is where book 2 begins. At the beginning Olivia is separated from the brothers and has no clue as to where she or they are until she stumbles over a dead soldiers body and kind of recognizes his uniform that she confiscates, along with knapsack. She gets her self captured by some soldiers that have a family of 2 girls and a Dad under arrest and she eventually escapes with the oldest girl.
They run into the brothers and they end up in a very uneven fight with a band of Sioux. Their little party of three, end up staying with the Sioux for some time while preparing for the next journey. Only their nemesis is right behind them and ready to attack.
This book was jam packed with adventure, a lot of Native American life noted in this story and it was interesting to see how the characters adapted to that lifestyle. Olivia went through a horrible period of grieving and depression after some personal trauma. So check your trigger warnings if that might be hard for you to read.
This is book 2in a time travel sequel and I loved it. It was a great continuation to a fabulous book 1, Timeborne, that was a 5 star read for me.
At the end of the last book Olivia blasts Roman, his brother and her self to 1812, American Revolutionary times and this is where book 2 begins. At the beginning Olivia is separated from the brothers and has no clue as to where she or they are until she stumbles over a dead soldiers body and kind of recognizes his uniform that she confiscates, along with knapsack. She gets her self captured by some soldiers that have a family of 2 girls and a Dad under arrest and she eventually escapes with the oldest girl.
They run into the brothers and they end up in a very uneven fight with a band of Sioux. Their little party of three, end up staying with the Sioux for some time while preparing for the next journey. Only their nemesis is right behind them and ready to attack.
This book was jam packed with adventure, a lot of Native American life noted in this story and it was interesting to see how the characters adapted to that lifestyle. Olivia went through a horrible period of grieving and depression after some personal trauma. So check your trigger warnings if that might be hard for you to read.
August 26, 2023
ARC REVIEW
Darkness of Time is the second book in the Blade of Shadows series. In order to read this book, you MUST READ Timeborne as Darkness of Time is a continuation of the story that started in Timeborne. The second book continues following Olivia and Roman in their journey alongside Marcellious.
Let me me tell you, Sara outdid herself once again. This book grabbed me from the first page and it wouldnt let me go until I knew how it ended. There is so much in this book to unpack. The plots and twists keep coming from every direction and you just dont know what to do. There is so much heartache in it, uncertainty, anger, love… you just wont get enough. As the previous book, it leaves you in a cliffhanger. I cannot wait until the 3rd book comes out because I NEED TO KNOW what happens next in Little Moon and Swift Hawk’s story and every other character I have invested myself here. This book comes out on September 5, and I promise you wont regret picking it up.
I want to thank Sara for sharing and ARC of this book and patiently reading my rants and dms about every turn and twist and my reactions to it. She is seriously the best!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Darkness of Time is the second book in the Blade of Shadows series. In order to read this book, you MUST READ Timeborne as Darkness of Time is a continuation of the story that started in Timeborne. The second book continues following Olivia and Roman in their journey alongside Marcellious.
Let me me tell you, Sara outdid herself once again. This book grabbed me from the first page and it wouldnt let me go until I knew how it ended. There is so much in this book to unpack. The plots and twists keep coming from every direction and you just dont know what to do. There is so much heartache in it, uncertainty, anger, love… you just wont get enough. As the previous book, it leaves you in a cliffhanger. I cannot wait until the 3rd book comes out because I NEED TO KNOW what happens next in Little Moon and Swift Hawk’s story and every other character I have invested myself here. This book comes out on September 5, and I promise you wont regret picking it up.
I want to thank Sara for sharing and ARC of this book and patiently reading my rants and dms about every turn and twist and my reactions to it. She is seriously the best!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
September 3, 2023
🌟 Book Review 🌟
▪︎ Name: Darkness of Time
▪︎ Author: Sara Samuels
▪︎ Genre: Romantasy
▪︎ Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
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🌟 Thoughts 🌟
The cover of this book is so good and I like it sm! Also the plot line is what got me addicted to this book and yall the cliffhanger left me wanting moreeeeeeee! This book was more heavier on the emotional and feeling aspect because the chemistry between Roman and Olivia 👀👀👀 and the over story line. OKAY BUT THE PLOT TWIST, THE PLOT TWIST I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING 🤯 and the ROLLERCOASTER RIDE THIS BOOK HAD WOW I DEFINITELY ENJOYED IT SM! This book pinched my heart a bit and the pacing was fast and yall know I love fast paced boookkkksss! Sara, I NEED BOOK 3 NOW PLS! Also, it's releasing in Sept. 5!!!
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🌟 Appreciation 🌟
Thank you Sara for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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🌟 Tags 🌟
#darknessoftime #sarasamuels #romantasy #fantasy #booktok #books #bookish #bookrecommendations #fantasybooks #fantasybookrecommendations #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #booklover #romantasybooks #romantasyrecs #romantasybookrecommendations #booksta #booktocker #booksta #timetravel
▪︎ Name: Darkness of Time
▪︎ Author: Sara Samuels
▪︎ Genre: Romantasy
▪︎ Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
.
.
.
🌟 Thoughts 🌟
The cover of this book is so good and I like it sm! Also the plot line is what got me addicted to this book and yall the cliffhanger left me wanting moreeeeeeee! This book was more heavier on the emotional and feeling aspect because the chemistry between Roman and Olivia 👀👀👀 and the over story line. OKAY BUT THE PLOT TWIST, THE PLOT TWIST I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING 🤯 and the ROLLERCOASTER RIDE THIS BOOK HAD WOW I DEFINITELY ENJOYED IT SM! This book pinched my heart a bit and the pacing was fast and yall know I love fast paced boookkkksss! Sara, I NEED BOOK 3 NOW PLS! Also, it's releasing in Sept. 5!!!
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.
.
🌟 Appreciation 🌟
Thank you Sara for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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🌟 Tags 🌟
#darknessoftime #sarasamuels #romantasy #fantasy #booktok #books #bookish #bookrecommendations #fantasybooks #fantasybookrecommendations #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #booklover #romantasybooks #romantasyrecs #romantasybookrecommendations #booksta #booktocker #booksta #timetravel
September 5, 2023
Darkness Of Time
Sara Samuels
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
The second installment of Blade of Sorrows series is beyond perfection. Dare I say I love it over Timeborne?! We follow Olivia and Roman for the next installment of their fascinating love story. The more I read, I find true beauty in the simplistic way that Sara puts pen to paper.
Her storytelling is so refreshing in the way Olivia and Roman integrate into their new environments and have even more answers as to why they are in 1812 Anerica . Picking up right where Timeborne ends, the dual POV is so important as we traverse the landscape and the lore in this book is just interwoven that similarly as Timeborne, it becomes a such a central element. Olivia, Roman and Marcellious are the most unlikely team and I love them all so much.
Sara Samuels has this incredible talent of combining an action packed fantasy and excellent character development. I'm here for it. The twists and turns are even better in Darkness of Time. Book Three lets goooo!
✨Emotional
✨Found Family
✨Fated Mates
✨Time Travel Fantasy
✨Hidden Truth
✨Vicious Villain
Sara Samuels
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️
The second installment of Blade of Sorrows series is beyond perfection. Dare I say I love it over Timeborne?! We follow Olivia and Roman for the next installment of their fascinating love story. The more I read, I find true beauty in the simplistic way that Sara puts pen to paper.
Her storytelling is so refreshing in the way Olivia and Roman integrate into their new environments and have even more answers as to why they are in 1812 Anerica . Picking up right where Timeborne ends, the dual POV is so important as we traverse the landscape and the lore in this book is just interwoven that similarly as Timeborne, it becomes a such a central element. Olivia, Roman and Marcellious are the most unlikely team and I love them all so much.
Sara Samuels has this incredible talent of combining an action packed fantasy and excellent character development. I'm here for it. The twists and turns are even better in Darkness of Time. Book Three lets goooo!
✨Emotional
✨Found Family
✨Fated Mates
✨Time Travel Fantasy
✨Hidden Truth
✨Vicious Villain
October 8, 2023
story 15/10 narration 15/10
this is the 2nd book in the Blade of Shadows series and it picked up right fast and flew! the pacing of this book was perfect and was never any lulls during the story. Sara’s writing is astonishing, unique, and special. I fell in love with her characters and worlds all over again with this 2nd book as I did the first.
i’m an avid reader and have been for 20yrs, this story will stick with you and is so different that you’ll be rereading it often.
this series will definitely give you all the emotions and more. this story with the narration (which I highly recommend) is brilliantly written and boldly plays out like a movie in your mind!!! I loved outlander but I love this series more. hopefully MAX or passionflix will adapt this to film because it’s truly amazing and deserves to be! no spoilers, this book moved along really well and I can’t wait for book 3!
the narrators: Sarah Sampino and Liam Price were perfect to breathing life into these characters. Liam’s different tones, cadence, and accents for his characters was amazing. I cannot wait till everyone finds this series… it’s phenomenal!!!
this is the 2nd book in the Blade of Shadows series and it picked up right fast and flew! the pacing of this book was perfect and was never any lulls during the story. Sara’s writing is astonishing, unique, and special. I fell in love with her characters and worlds all over again with this 2nd book as I did the first.
i’m an avid reader and have been for 20yrs, this story will stick with you and is so different that you’ll be rereading it often.
this series will definitely give you all the emotions and more. this story with the narration (which I highly recommend) is brilliantly written and boldly plays out like a movie in your mind!!! I loved outlander but I love this series more. hopefully MAX or passionflix will adapt this to film because it’s truly amazing and deserves to be! no spoilers, this book moved along really well and I can’t wait for book 3!
the narrators: Sarah Sampino and Liam Price were perfect to breathing life into these characters. Liam’s different tones, cadence, and accents for his characters was amazing. I cannot wait till everyone finds this series… it’s phenomenal!!!
November 13, 2023
Like book one, I purchased the audiobook and listened through Audible. The narrators were the same and they did a fantastic job once again.
This book picks up right where book one left off. The blurb does a great job showing what the book is about, and I don't want to add to it for fear of spoilers, but here are some highlights:
-Olivia and Roman do not appear together when she ports them all back, which means Oliva is a woman without a man in 1812.
-The war of 1812 is going on, and they are in the middle of it.
-We get introduced to a new character, who we fall in love with instantly. We are going to become very invested in this new character's life and happiness, and so is Oliva.
-We know that Balthazar is on the hunt for all Timebornes, including them. The stuff that he does to them might require a couple trigger warnings, especially near the end.
-The spice is just as spicy, and there is PLENTY of it.
-We learn more about Roman and Marcellus's past, and secrets they've been keeping.
If you loved the first book, you will love the second book. This author has a forever reader/listener with me! I cannot wait for book three!!!!
This book picks up right where book one left off. The blurb does a great job showing what the book is about, and I don't want to add to it for fear of spoilers, but here are some highlights:
-Olivia and Roman do not appear together when she ports them all back, which means Oliva is a woman without a man in 1812.
-The war of 1812 is going on, and they are in the middle of it.
-We get introduced to a new character, who we fall in love with instantly. We are going to become very invested in this new character's life and happiness, and so is Oliva.
-We know that Balthazar is on the hunt for all Timebornes, including them. The stuff that he does to them might require a couple trigger warnings, especially near the end.
-The spice is just as spicy, and there is PLENTY of it.
-We learn more about Roman and Marcellus's past, and secrets they've been keeping.
If you loved the first book, you will love the second book. This author has a forever reader/listener with me! I cannot wait for book three!!!!
July 9, 2025
This book got really dark! I am enjoying the twists and learning more about our characters. Especially Marcellus. I’m sure we’ll learn even more soon. Of course, in this one. Roman and Olivia gets separated, but it’ll make the story more interesting. I strangely enjoy how Marcellious Has turned over a new leaf, and I believe he’s changed. Olivia does not buy it and she’s constantly reminding him and us about his treachery. A little annoying. The main bad guy seems to be unstoppable, and the author makes it seem like Balthazar is actually more human than shadow. This bad guy can easily kill all of our characters, but for some reason, chooses not to.
In this world, Timebornes are supposed to be very rare, but it seems like everyone has some kind of connection to one. I feel like there should be more “shadows” too. I do like to see the relationship between Emily and Marcellious grow, but really shocked to see that he had to die at the end of this book! Maybe he’s not really dead? And Roman made it all the way to the 21st century! How are they gonna defeat this impossibly powerful bad guy?
In this world, Timebornes are supposed to be very rare, but it seems like everyone has some kind of connection to one. I feel like there should be more “shadows” too. I do like to see the relationship between Emily and Marcellious grow, but really shocked to see that he had to die at the end of this book! Maybe he’s not really dead? And Roman made it all the way to the 21st century! How are they gonna defeat this impossibly powerful bad guy?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
This book had me on the edge of my seat for almost the entire book!
I was so ready to dive back into this world after the cliffhanger from book one.
Sara brought it ALL in Darkness of Time. I swear I felt every single emotion.
THE TWISTS🤯 when you think you are kind of piecing it all together BAM 💥 more things come to light and more secrets revealed.
Questions are being answered but it brings in 25 more questions 😂
Poor Olivia went through hell in this book, Her and Roman are the definition of what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. They are tested SO much throughout this book not only physically but mentally.
A new time period, new characters with some becoming new friends/family, villain reveals himself, heart warming moments, gut wrenching sadness.
This book had so much packed in it and it was 🤌🏻💋 everything.
With the way it ended, I can’t wait to find out what book 3 secrets are revealed!
I love Sara’s writing and am so excited to see where this series takes us.
This book had me on the edge of my seat for almost the entire book!
I was so ready to dive back into this world after the cliffhanger from book one.
Sara brought it ALL in Darkness of Time. I swear I felt every single emotion.
THE TWISTS🤯 when you think you are kind of piecing it all together BAM 💥 more things come to light and more secrets revealed.
Questions are being answered but it brings in 25 more questions 😂
Poor Olivia went through hell in this book, Her and Roman are the definition of what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. They are tested SO much throughout this book not only physically but mentally.
A new time period, new characters with some becoming new friends/family, villain reveals himself, heart warming moments, gut wrenching sadness.
This book had so much packed in it and it was 🤌🏻💋 everything.
With the way it ended, I can’t wait to find out what book 3 secrets are revealed!
I love Sara’s writing and am so excited to see where this series takes us.
September 7, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶
Review: So this is my first ever time traveling book and I love that each book has different times its placed in. You literally cannot be bored of it!
Olivia is such a BA in all honesty. For as much trauma she goes through and continues to push and fight and do the best for people it's really remarkable. Then you bring Roman into the mix and it's just 🥵
I loved seeing Marcellious more in this book and really getting to see his background and how he came to be who he is.
I didnt really care for how quickly Emily came into the picture and how close her and Olivia came in such a short time. It just felt too fast for me.
I enjoyed hearing more about the darkness in this book tho and seeing even the personality on him come to life. He's truly a demon from hell!
I hated that there wasn't a bigger cliffhanger on this book tho like there was on the first one.
Overall it was an okay read. I liked the first one alot better but this atleast answered some questions for me! Sara is an absolute sweetheart and I enjoy her as an author.
Spice: 🌶🌶
Review: So this is my first ever time traveling book and I love that each book has different times its placed in. You literally cannot be bored of it!
Olivia is such a BA in all honesty. For as much trauma she goes through and continues to push and fight and do the best for people it's really remarkable. Then you bring Roman into the mix and it's just 🥵
I loved seeing Marcellious more in this book and really getting to see his background and how he came to be who he is.
I didnt really care for how quickly Emily came into the picture and how close her and Olivia came in such a short time. It just felt too fast for me.
I enjoyed hearing more about the darkness in this book tho and seeing even the personality on him come to life. He's truly a demon from hell!
I hated that there wasn't a bigger cliffhanger on this book tho like there was on the first one.
Overall it was an okay read. I liked the first one alot better but this atleast answered some questions for me! Sara is an absolute sweetheart and I enjoy her as an author.
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