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The Melderblood Chronicles #2
Shadow Caste
The queen wants her dead. The prince wants to usurp her magic. And her only hope lies in a violent shadow society that would rather kill her than help her.
Trapped inside a foreign palace and bound to a prince bent on the destruction of her kind, Princess Aviama must toe the line between cooperation and treachery. No allies remain in the palace. And if she doesn’t escape before her forced wedding comes around, everything and everyone she loves will die.
This book has no smut, no swearing and features a clean romance, royal espionage, blackmail galore, and a slim chance of survival for our female MC.
Praise for The Melderblood Chronicles
“If you thought book 1 put our sweet, tender, kind-hearted princess in the blender of fantastical chaos, book 2 puts her in the proverbial oven. I don't know about you, but after reading this series I'm going to have to start wearing more rings to twist when I'm stressed, and swish my fancy skirts back and forth shouting "biscuits!" under my breath. (You'll get it when you read it.)”
“Continuing in the "can't put it down" action-driven style of the Blood & Flame Saga and the second book in the Melderblood series, Shadow Caste leaves no characters safely out of harm's way.”
“Each book is full of high stakes and intrigue and writing that brings you right along with the characters! Aviama was one of my favorite characters in the Blood & Flame Saga and I absolutely loved continuing her story in this series”
Trapped inside a foreign palace and bound to a prince bent on the destruction of her kind, Princess Aviama must toe the line between cooperation and treachery. No allies remain in the palace. And if she doesn’t escape before her forced wedding comes around, everything and everyone she loves will die.
This book has no smut, no swearing and features a clean romance, royal espionage, blackmail galore, and a slim chance of survival for our female MC.
Praise for The Melderblood Chronicles
“If you thought book 1 put our sweet, tender, kind-hearted princess in the blender of fantastical chaos, book 2 puts her in the proverbial oven. I don't know about you, but after reading this series I'm going to have to start wearing more rings to twist when I'm stressed, and swish my fancy skirts back and forth shouting "biscuits!" under my breath. (You'll get it when you read it.)”
“Continuing in the "can't put it down" action-driven style of the Blood & Flame Saga and the second book in the Melderblood series, Shadow Caste leaves no characters safely out of harm's way.”
“Each book is full of high stakes and intrigue and writing that brings you right along with the characters! Aviama was one of my favorite characters in the Blood & Flame Saga and I absolutely loved continuing her story in this series”
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2024
69 people are currently reading
444 people want to read
About the author
E.A. Winters
16 books730 followersAuthor of The Blood and Flame Saga and The Melderblood Chronicles, E.A. Winters writes fast-paced, high stakes fantasy stories that keep you turning pages long into the night. She writes with a chai tea close at hand, and when she's not writing, she enjoys family time with her boys and husband in Virginia. Come along to narrowly escape death, ride dragons, and befriend assassins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 1, 2026
3.5 stars
really it had to end like that? at least let me know if Chenzira is OK 😭 he BETTER save her heroically and they make me love them more! they did end up growing on me lol ANYWAYS NEW YEAR TONS OF NEW BOOKS TO READ AND IM EXCITED!!!! But I do need the 3rd one 😊
really it had to end like that? at least let me know if Chenzira is OK 😭 he BETTER save her heroically and they make me love them more! they did end up growing on me lol ANYWAYS NEW YEAR TONS OF NEW BOOKS TO READ AND IM EXCITED!!!! But I do need the 3rd one 😊
January 18, 2025
5 Stars
Kindle Unlimited
This book was so good! This whole series has been amazing! It has many of the Romantasy tropes that are beloved but there are so many twists along the way that it feels new and exciting! I can't wait to see how this ends!
Kindle Unlimited
This book was so good! This whole series has been amazing! It has many of the Romantasy tropes that are beloved but there are so many twists along the way that it feels new and exciting! I can't wait to see how this ends!
December 28, 2024
On the edge of my seat as more intrigue and unknowns fill the story. Who can she trust? Who wants her dead enough to attempt it? Can she trust the food?
This book built upon book one beautifully. It ends with a cliffhanger that I’m sure leads right into book three.
More characters join the story as we meet the Shadow group of rebels lead by a very dangerous man. It’s hard to tell if he is a friend or foe or just a radical.
Princess Aviama continues to surprise me as she finds herself in one dangerous situation after another. She doesn’t realize just how brave she is it at the same time, she gets herself into some really messy situations because of how much she cares for other people.
Chenzira has become a very important character. He was in book one but I wasn’t sure if Prince Shiva was who he seemed to be or if there was an underlying story there. Chenzira is also a prince but has been living as a spy for three years. He seems to care for Aviama although they tend to do more arguing at fist that later in booking forward to seeing how this relationship turns out.
Great action storyline. Keeps you engaged. A feeling of missing something if you have to put the book down.
This book built upon book one beautifully. It ends with a cliffhanger that I’m sure leads right into book three.
More characters join the story as we meet the Shadow group of rebels lead by a very dangerous man. It’s hard to tell if he is a friend or foe or just a radical.
Princess Aviama continues to surprise me as she finds herself in one dangerous situation after another. She doesn’t realize just how brave she is it at the same time, she gets herself into some really messy situations because of how much she cares for other people.
Chenzira has become a very important character. He was in book one but I wasn’t sure if Prince Shiva was who he seemed to be or if there was an underlying story there. Chenzira is also a prince but has been living as a spy for three years. He seems to care for Aviama although they tend to do more arguing at fist that later in booking forward to seeing how this relationship turns out.
Great action storyline. Keeps you engaged. A feeling of missing something if you have to put the book down.
December 29, 2024
This is between 3 & 4 stars. It was definitely better than the first, I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going on.
Okay, am I the only one that wants Aviama to give Prince Shiva a chance?? just start over, start fresh!! I don’t think he could possibly be that bad, I know I’m wrong, but still…
I wanted the ending to be of Aviama going back to Jannemar to fight along side her brother and sister in law. The ending was kind of disappointing, I was left feeling “this is what book 3 is going to be about, ugh”. But I am going to read it.
Okay, am I the only one that wants Aviama to give Prince Shiva a chance?? just start over, start fresh!! I don’t think he could possibly be that bad, I know I’m wrong, but still…
I wanted the ending to be of Aviama going back to Jannemar to fight along side her brother and sister in law. The ending was kind of disappointing, I was left feeling “this is what book 3 is going to be about, ugh”. But I am going to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2024
This is a great follow up to Melderblood. Aviama’s story continues as she tries to navigate her way through court and help her people that are being targeted. What follows is a fast paced and action packed thriller, with Aviama really starting to use her Melderblood powers. Political intrigue, betrayal, a clean slow burn romance developing…this book is a fun read!
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2024
I was skeptical when I realized it was the soft spoken princess instead of the sassy assassin as the lead but she did not disappoint! Such wonderfully fun characters and fast paced adventures
March 5, 2024
Fantasy, intrigue, danger, and magic lurk within these pages~
Continuing in the "can't put it down" action driven style of the Dragon's Kiss quartet and the first book in the Melderblood series, Shadow Caste leaves no characters safely out of harm's way.
If you want high stakes action and fantasy? This book is for you.
If you want a magic system that requires work and time rather than just being a little too easy? This book is for you.
If you want to second guess and question twists and turns? This book is for you.
If you want a no-nonsense heroine who is in over her head trying to do her best? Yup. This book is for you.
Just don't expect to be able to go to bed anytime soon because EA Winters expands on her previous mastery of edge of your seat, one more chapter, there's no way I'm not finishing this tonight adventures.
Oh...and sirens for good measure.
Continuing in the "can't put it down" action driven style of the Dragon's Kiss quartet and the first book in the Melderblood series, Shadow Caste leaves no characters safely out of harm's way.
If you want high stakes action and fantasy? This book is for you.
If you want a magic system that requires work and time rather than just being a little too easy? This book is for you.
If you want to second guess and question twists and turns? This book is for you.
If you want a no-nonsense heroine who is in over her head trying to do her best? Yup. This book is for you.
Just don't expect to be able to go to bed anytime soon because EA Winters expands on her previous mastery of edge of your seat, one more chapter, there's no way I'm not finishing this tonight adventures.
Oh...and sirens for good measure.
March 6, 2024
I was given an ARC copy, but my review is of my own volition and not mandated. My opinion is my own.
AHHHHH, I’ve been so excited to read the second book in this series and I’ve got to say, I wasn’t disappointed. This series deals with a lot of political intrigue and may seem slow to some others. I thought there was plenty of action to balance the intrigue, but this is a longer series, so the movements are smaller and there are consequences and repercussions to everything that is decided.
Aviama is one of my favorite characters so far. I’m excited to see how she continues to grow and change, and how her arc is shaped. I LOVE Chenzira - he grew on me a lot in this book. I enjoyed getting to see him a little more in a different environment compared to the first book. Shiva is also such an interesting character to me - definitely still an antagonist, but I’m intrigued to see what happens to him and if he changes at all.
So, so pumped for the next installment as we take to the sea! I want to see what happens with Makana and the Iolani people!
AHHHHH, I’ve been so excited to read the second book in this series and I’ve got to say, I wasn’t disappointed. This series deals with a lot of political intrigue and may seem slow to some others. I thought there was plenty of action to balance the intrigue, but this is a longer series, so the movements are smaller and there are consequences and repercussions to everything that is decided.
Aviama is one of my favorite characters so far. I’m excited to see how she continues to grow and change, and how her arc is shaped. I LOVE Chenzira - he grew on me a lot in this book. I enjoyed getting to see him a little more in a different environment compared to the first book. Shiva is also such an interesting character to me - definitely still an antagonist, but I’m intrigued to see what happens to him and if he changes at all.
So, so pumped for the next installment as we take to the sea! I want to see what happens with Makana and the Iolani people!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2024
Winters has done it again! Shadow Caste sends you on an emotional rollercoaster in a span of 4 hours. It continues the heart pounding adventures of Aviama as she tries to navigate between several fractions that want to use her for their own gain. I love how the author has Aviama stay true to her principles, even though she has great opposition. This is an excellent sequel to Melderblood. I can't wait for wraithweaver.
December 30, 2025
Excellent Sequel! Chaotic, Clever, and So Satisfying
This sequel is excellent!!! We’re talking inception-level blackmail, twist upon twist, where every conversation feels like it could flip the board. Everywhere you turn, there’s a betrayal waiting to happen—or an unexpected alliance—or both. The odds are stacked, and then layered with even more impossible odds. And just when you think the characters catch a break, the stakes rise again.
But what truly elevates this book is the incredible character development. Every major character goes through arcs that feel earned, fulfilling, and emotionally resonant. It’s not just about shock value—it’s about growth. You see people change, wrestle with loyalty and guilt, power and love, and that transformation feels satisfying in the deepest way. The author doesn’t rush it. They let the characters evolve with the chaos, and it works.
We’ve got enemies to lovers, lovers to enemies, trust broken and rebuilt, friendships tested, and all of it feels grounded even while the magic and danger spiral. It’s all still clean, which is a huge plus for me—and yet the tension and action are relentless. The chaotic magic adds a whole other dimension, too—unpredictable, dangerous, and beautifully woven into the story.
I also have to say—I was so, so happy with the timing of the reveals. The way the author drops key information is masterfully paced. You don’t get info dumps. You get moments. Moments that land hard. I won’t say too much because this is a spoiler-free review, but just know that the payoff is so worth it.
This is how you do a sequel. Bigger. Bolder. Better. And completely satisfying in every way.
This sequel is excellent!!! We’re talking inception-level blackmail, twist upon twist, where every conversation feels like it could flip the board. Everywhere you turn, there’s a betrayal waiting to happen—or an unexpected alliance—or both. The odds are stacked, and then layered with even more impossible odds. And just when you think the characters catch a break, the stakes rise again.
But what truly elevates this book is the incredible character development. Every major character goes through arcs that feel earned, fulfilling, and emotionally resonant. It’s not just about shock value—it’s about growth. You see people change, wrestle with loyalty and guilt, power and love, and that transformation feels satisfying in the deepest way. The author doesn’t rush it. They let the characters evolve with the chaos, and it works.
We’ve got enemies to lovers, lovers to enemies, trust broken and rebuilt, friendships tested, and all of it feels grounded even while the magic and danger spiral. It’s all still clean, which is a huge plus for me—and yet the tension and action are relentless. The chaotic magic adds a whole other dimension, too—unpredictable, dangerous, and beautifully woven into the story.
I also have to say—I was so, so happy with the timing of the reveals. The way the author drops key information is masterfully paced. You don’t get info dumps. You get moments. Moments that land hard. I won’t say too much because this is a spoiler-free review, but just know that the payoff is so worth it.
This is how you do a sequel. Bigger. Bolder. Better. And completely satisfying in every way.
March 13, 2024
ARC Reader Review
You know that TikTok sound where they are reading through something and it's all calm and what-not, then they accidentally skip a page and suddenly BOOM! Explosions! Mayhem! Smash! Crash! Aaaaaah!
Well, this book does that.
We first meet sweet, dear Princess Aviama (love her) in the Blood and Flame Saga. While the main characters, Semra and Zefan, are out fighting for their lives, kingdom, and other things, Aviama gets stuck in the background; safe, gentle, and secure...
But not in this follow-up series.
Melderblood book 1 throws our dear princess into what you'd first assume is a sneaky way to see what the neighboring crazy kingdom is really up to, and pretending to try and win the prince's heart. BUT, instead Aviama gets stuck trying to help manage the new awakening of elemental powers in the world, while also avoiding a death-hungry queen and her pet hyena, AND learning how crazy the prince really is, AAAAAND learning about radical rebels fighting against these manipulative crazy royals, AND MORE.
Holy crap.
If you thought book 1 put our sweet, tender, kind-hearted princess in the blender of fantastical chaos, book 2 puts her in the proverbial oven.
What would you do if you were forced to marry into a maniacal royal family, whilst the rebels tried to make you the symbol of their rebellion, and your home kingdom, and all of your fellow melderbloods are being threatened with death and entrapment??
This. This is what Aviama has to figure out. By herself. Surrounded by spies and threats. While still trying to maintain her purity, kindness, and sweetness.
I don't know about you, but after reading this series I'm going to have to start wearing more rings to twist when I'm stressed, and swish my fancy skirts back and forth shouting "biscuits!" under my breath. (You'll get it when you read it.)
As always, please read this and all of Winters other books. You won't be disappointed.
*** No smut, no swearing, amazing plot, great character development, appropriate for 13+ audiences.
You know that TikTok sound where they are reading through something and it's all calm and what-not, then they accidentally skip a page and suddenly BOOM! Explosions! Mayhem! Smash! Crash! Aaaaaah!
Well, this book does that.
We first meet sweet, dear Princess Aviama (love her) in the Blood and Flame Saga. While the main characters, Semra and Zefan, are out fighting for their lives, kingdom, and other things, Aviama gets stuck in the background; safe, gentle, and secure...
But not in this follow-up series.
Melderblood book 1 throws our dear princess into what you'd first assume is a sneaky way to see what the neighboring crazy kingdom is really up to, and pretending to try and win the prince's heart. BUT, instead Aviama gets stuck trying to help manage the new awakening of elemental powers in the world, while also avoiding a death-hungry queen and her pet hyena, AND learning how crazy the prince really is, AAAAAND learning about radical rebels fighting against these manipulative crazy royals, AND MORE.
Holy crap.
If you thought book 1 put our sweet, tender, kind-hearted princess in the blender of fantastical chaos, book 2 puts her in the proverbial oven.
What would you do if you were forced to marry into a maniacal royal family, whilst the rebels tried to make you the symbol of their rebellion, and your home kingdom, and all of your fellow melderbloods are being threatened with death and entrapment??
This. This is what Aviama has to figure out. By herself. Surrounded by spies and threats. While still trying to maintain her purity, kindness, and sweetness.
I don't know about you, but after reading this series I'm going to have to start wearing more rings to twist when I'm stressed, and swish my fancy skirts back and forth shouting "biscuits!" under my breath. (You'll get it when you read it.)
As always, please read this and all of Winters other books. You won't be disappointed.
*** No smut, no swearing, amazing plot, great character development, appropriate for 13+ audiences.
February 16, 2024
I stayed up entirely too late to finish Shadow Caste but I have no regrets. This book has you on the edge of your seat pretty much the whole time, but there’s some great Chenzira and Aviama moments to lighten it up a bit. I cannot wait to see what happens in the third book!!
I really like Aviama as the FMC. I think she acts very realistic for a princess that was a bit sheltered by being the youngest. She is naive at times, and suffers from a lack of confidence but she does grow some in this installment, while still staying true to herself. Part of me keeps hoping Semra will show up and just clean house, but I’m glad she doesn’t because it gives us a different story and gives Aviama a chance to rely on herself.
Chenzira is my favorite. He also stays true to himself by still being brutally honest, lol, but you get to see a softer side of him and that was nice too.
I am loving the family dynamics in Shiva’s family and I loved the layers the author gave Shiva. That being said i can’t wait to read him and his family getting their comeuppance!
The court intrigue is one of my favorite parts of the story. There’s a lot of moving pieces and I’m curious how the authors going to resolve it in the third book.
Content: quite a bit of stabby stabby (much like the first book), some kissing, no swearing
Thank you dear author for letting me read an early copy! (All opinions are my own)
I really like Aviama as the FMC. I think she acts very realistic for a princess that was a bit sheltered by being the youngest. She is naive at times, and suffers from a lack of confidence but she does grow some in this installment, while still staying true to herself. Part of me keeps hoping Semra will show up and just clean house, but I’m glad she doesn’t because it gives us a different story and gives Aviama a chance to rely on herself.
Chenzira is my favorite. He also stays true to himself by still being brutally honest, lol, but you get to see a softer side of him and that was nice too.
I am loving the family dynamics in Shiva’s family and I loved the layers the author gave Shiva. That being said i can’t wait to read him and his family getting their comeuppance!
The court intrigue is one of my favorite parts of the story. There’s a lot of moving pieces and I’m curious how the authors going to resolve it in the third book.
Content: quite a bit of stabby stabby (much like the first book), some kissing, no swearing
Thank you dear author for letting me read an early copy! (All opinions are my own)
October 14, 2025
can’t wait to see what happens next!
The Queen wants her dead. The Prince wants her magic and the secrets she holds. Her only hopes lie with a violent rebel society who would also use her for her magic.
Trapped in a foreign palace and bound to a prince bent on the destruction and conquest of her kind and her kingdom, Princess Aviana must toe the line between cooperation and treachery with no allies on her side.
Can she escape her fate or will she be forced to marry and watch as those she loves die?
After the cliffhanger at the end of the first book it was good to see what happens next. Still so much drama, tension and intrigue. A royal family who actively work against each other in their pursuit of power. A FMC who is still resourceful and hopeful despite the darkness that surrounds her. Can’t wait to see what happens next!
Favourite quotes include:
He caught her with an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her in close enough to whisper in her ear, his breath sending goosebumps down her neck. “I won’t let you marry him.”
“Show spirit, not deference. Show strength, even if your knees knock while you do it. Steal confidence from the show you put on, and wear it like a crown.”
“They see a shell. He’s got a nice face, but the homicidal manipulative bit does put a damper on things.”
The Queen wants her dead. The Prince wants her magic and the secrets she holds. Her only hopes lie with a violent rebel society who would also use her for her magic.
Trapped in a foreign palace and bound to a prince bent on the destruction and conquest of her kind and her kingdom, Princess Aviana must toe the line between cooperation and treachery with no allies on her side.
Can she escape her fate or will she be forced to marry and watch as those she loves die?
After the cliffhanger at the end of the first book it was good to see what happens next. Still so much drama, tension and intrigue. A royal family who actively work against each other in their pursuit of power. A FMC who is still resourceful and hopeful despite the darkness that surrounds her. Can’t wait to see what happens next!
Favourite quotes include:
He caught her with an arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her in close enough to whisper in her ear, his breath sending goosebumps down her neck. “I won’t let you marry him.”
“Show spirit, not deference. Show strength, even if your knees knock while you do it. Steal confidence from the show you put on, and wear it like a crown.”
“They see a shell. He’s got a nice face, but the homicidal manipulative bit does put a damper on things.”
March 5, 2024
I went into reading this a little unsure after the “Bachelor” style plot of Melderblood, but I love EA Winters’ writing and hoped there would be tons more action and intrigue- I wasn’t disappointed! The second book includes character growth, plot twists, action, and adventure galore, with an epic cliffhanger at the end!
Winters excels at dropping possible plot set-up points, gaslighting you into thinking you didn’t actually see them, then dropping a major plot point! Shadow Caste dives into the world-building that felt light in Melderblood; I loved seeing more information about the characters’ powers and the magic system as a whole.
The only negative, for me, was that the book begins with, and is periodically sprinkled with, non-consensual physical closeness and even some forced kissing between two characters. It’s necessary for the plot, but hard to read.
This is a clean fantasy book. There is kissing, battles, close calls, and magic battles, but no explicit language or sexual content. It’s a series both my 10 year old and I can enjoy! I’d definitely recommend it to adults, teens, and kids who have a high enough reading level.
I was provided and ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to leave a positive review, all options are my own.
Winters excels at dropping possible plot set-up points, gaslighting you into thinking you didn’t actually see them, then dropping a major plot point! Shadow Caste dives into the world-building that felt light in Melderblood; I loved seeing more information about the characters’ powers and the magic system as a whole.
The only negative, for me, was that the book begins with, and is periodically sprinkled with, non-consensual physical closeness and even some forced kissing between two characters. It’s necessary for the plot, but hard to read.
This is a clean fantasy book. There is kissing, battles, close calls, and magic battles, but no explicit language or sexual content. It’s a series both my 10 year old and I can enjoy! I’d definitely recommend it to adults, teens, and kids who have a high enough reading level.
I was provided and ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to leave a positive review, all options are my own.
February 21, 2024
Action packed! Book 2 of The Melderblood Chronicles does not disappoint! Fast paced, keep you on your toes, continued journey of Princess Aviama. This book describes Aviama’s hardships being trapped in a foreign palace betrothed to Prince Shiva. The rebel leader, Darsh, tries to recruit her but she feels something isn’t right. And Chenzira plays a main role in protecting Aviama through the MANY ordeals she finds herself in. I am Team Chenzira all the way! I cannot wait to see what he does in book 3.
I truly hope in book 3 that Aviama grows as a character. I want to see her fierce and confident but also trusting. She has major trust issues in this book, rightly so, but would love to see her connect with more characters (a real connection). I cannot wait to see what happens with Makana as well. I really like her character. I also hope for more dialogue in the next book to get more banter between the characters so we can connect with them a little more. But I have no doubt book 3 will be amazing as well.
I truly hope in book 3 that Aviama grows as a character. I want to see her fierce and confident but also trusting. She has major trust issues in this book, rightly so, but would love to see her connect with more characters (a real connection). I cannot wait to see what happens with Makana as well. I really like her character. I also hope for more dialogue in the next book to get more banter between the characters so we can connect with them a little more. But I have no doubt book 3 will be amazing as well.
March 16, 2024
I’ve read both books that are currently out of this series and can’t wait for book 3 to be released! I also absolutely loved the series this one stemmed from, the blood and flame sage!! (If you love fast paced action and assassins go and read it!). I am also currently reading her stand alone novel the forgotten stone. E. A Winters has quickly become one of my favorite authors! Both her series becoming some of my favorites of all time!!
Each book is full of high stakes and intrigue and writing that brings you right along with the characters! Aviama was one of my favorite characters in the blood and flame saga and I absolutely loved continuing her story in this series! She is such a relatable character and I felt with her as she continually faced danger. This is a series that will captivate you completely and each book is better than the last!
If you love high stakes and espionage this series is for you!
May 27, 2024
This one dives right in after Melderblood. The anticipation of what was going to happen in this installment had me on my toes. I love that these books are so easy to get lost into. The chaos that Aviama goes through is never ending. As you get further in the book you never know what to expect and any character could die from the war that's always brewing or the betrayal that's always right around the corner.
Chenzira is my favorite right alongside Aviama. I knew in Melderblood that he was going to be a special character and this book just solidified it. The poor princess never catches a break, the roller coaster of drama is never ending in the book. Just when she thinks she's got it figured out her feet are ripped out from under her again. Next book we're going from land to sea and that seems very intriguing. I can't wait to see what happens with Makana and the Iolani people and also to see where they are heading.
Chenzira is my favorite right alongside Aviama. I knew in Melderblood that he was going to be a special character and this book just solidified it. The poor princess never catches a break, the roller coaster of drama is never ending in the book. Just when she thinks she's got it figured out her feet are ripped out from under her again. Next book we're going from land to sea and that seems very intriguing. I can't wait to see what happens with Makana and the Iolani people and also to see where they are heading.
April 13, 2024
+:
+The slow-burn romance
+Chenzira
+Makana
-:
-everything Aviama does is insignificant
-the whole plot is basically going from the palace to the beach - with many stop-overs...
-Durga and Darsh
-infinitely long descriptions of aviamas thoughts, doubts, feelings, the various ways to her room (or just any location) and so on..
I want to know how aviamas story ends, so I will read the next book(s) ... probably... But if it's just the same story about the "good side" failing over and over and over and over and over and over again and again.... It's simply no fun at all.
I really hope the next books will be better, because the story-concept per se is good and the characters are likeable.
(If it was a christian story it would be even better, but thats just personal preference and has nothing to do with my rating.)
+The slow-burn romance
+Chenzira
+Makana
-:
-everything Aviama does is insignificant
-the whole plot is basically going from the palace to the beach - with many stop-overs...
-Durga and Darsh
-infinitely long descriptions of aviamas thoughts, doubts, feelings, the various ways to her room (or just any location) and so on..
I want to know how aviamas story ends, so I will read the next book(s) ... probably... But if it's just the same story about the "good side" failing over and over and over and over and over and over again and again.... It's simply no fun at all.
I really hope the next books will be better, because the story-concept per se is good and the characters are likeable.
(If it was a christian story it would be even better, but thats just personal preference and has nothing to do with my rating.)
March 1, 2024
In true E.A. Winters fashion, the stakes in Shadow Caste seamlessly jump up even higher than they were in Melderblood.
Just like the last book, there are fresh twists, turns, and flip flops around every corner. Even though Aviama narrowly escaped certain death in the last book, she’s nowhere near out of danger - in fact, she’s now torn between two worlds full of it - one under the sun, one in the shadows.
I don’t know how Winters manages to keep upping the game with every book, but she is a master at not just doing so, but doing so in a way that makes sense. I am PUMPED for the next book after this adventure!
Just like the last book, there are fresh twists, turns, and flip flops around every corner. Even though Aviama narrowly escaped certain death in the last book, she’s nowhere near out of danger - in fact, she’s now torn between two worlds full of it - one under the sun, one in the shadows.
I don’t know how Winters manages to keep upping the game with every book, but she is a master at not just doing so, but doing so in a way that makes sense. I am PUMPED for the next book after this adventure!
March 16, 2024
Another great one by EA Winters! I’m hooked and she’s a must buy author for me now! This book picked up where we left off but never slowed and kept intrigue and panic and fear and hope all going ALL THE TIME! Who to trust? Oh not that person, maybe that person? Nope…you must be kidding…is there anyone? Oh yes maybe….maybe not. Literally me thoughts through this. I am now impatiently waiting for the next one…I know it’s coming but ugh!
What’s even more fascinating is I believe that EA Winters aims for mostly happy endings…however, even believing that is how this series will end…I don’t have the faintest clue which type of happy ending to hope for! Well done!
What’s even more fascinating is I believe that EA Winters aims for mostly happy endings…however, even believing that is how this series will end…I don’t have the faintest clue which type of happy ending to hope for! Well done!
November 19, 2024
I’d say a solid 3.5 stars, maybe slightly more. This kept the pace of the first book, with one thing after another happening, and Aviama finding herself in deeper and deeper trouble. I liked the layers to each character and how, just because they acted a certain way or made a certain choice, it didn’t mean that was all there was to them, but that they maybe had multiple reasons for acting the way they were. The ending perplexed me, because there was no lead up or hinting to it at all from the opposing side—not that I’d noticed, anyway—and yet it was obviously something that had been planned in advance.
December 1, 2024
WHERE IS THE MAP?! I want a map!!
Anyway, we basically pick up where we left off in book 1. It's like 2 weeks later.
Wedding preparations are underway.
But not to fret! This one is laced with even more heart-pounding adventure than book 1!
Avaima finds herself in more peril and in closer calls in this one.
Shiva is basically still himself.
Chenzira is still swoon-worthy!
Plus, we get to introduced to more Melderbloods in unexpected places!
The adventure continues!
Disclaimer: clean, forced kisses, blackmail, gore, mermaids, swindlers, treachery, and so much more. Note: the gore in this one is more than book 1. Be warned.
I'm onto book 3!!
The ride is thrilling!
Anyway, we basically pick up where we left off in book 1. It's like 2 weeks later.
Wedding preparations are underway.
But not to fret! This one is laced with even more heart-pounding adventure than book 1!
Avaima finds herself in more peril and in closer calls in this one.
Shiva is basically still himself.
Chenzira is still swoon-worthy!
Plus, we get to introduced to more Melderbloods in unexpected places!
The adventure continues!
Disclaimer: clean, forced kisses, blackmail, gore, mermaids, swindlers, treachery, and so much more. Note: the gore in this one is more than book 1. Be warned.
I'm onto book 3!!
The ride is thrilling!
March 29, 2025
Not as enjoyable as the first in the series. A lot of drama. Still a fun read, but I didn't enjoy this as much. I enjoy the characters still, and I'm curious how they will resolve everything, so I'll keep reading.
In contrast to the author's first series, I like the change in character and relationship dynamics. She's not a trained assassin, and she keeps making big mistakes (it's hard to read and watch them happen sometimes). But she's doing her best to learn and keep trying.
I like this idea that she is trapped with no way out, but she's trying her best to do what she can while being trapped in circumstance. I think that's a great lesson and idea to share especially for Young Adults.
In contrast to the author's first series, I like the change in character and relationship dynamics. She's not a trained assassin, and she keeps making big mistakes (it's hard to read and watch them happen sometimes). But she's doing her best to learn and keep trying.
I like this idea that she is trapped with no way out, but she's trying her best to do what she can while being trapped in circumstance. I think that's a great lesson and idea to share especially for Young Adults.
March 5, 2024
This book was even more fast paced and exciting than book 1!
I really love Princess Aviama. I can relate to her with my own clumsiness and lack of self assurance. I feel a kinship with her which in turn makes me all the more inspired by her courage and willingness to try.
I loved, loved, LOVED the small spark of love that we got to see grow between Aviama and Chenzira in this book. Each of their interactions gave me the tingles and I can’t wait to see their relationship blossom! Did I mention that I love them? Haha!
E.A Winters never disappoints! I ate up every word of this book and couldn’t be more excited to set sail with book 3!
I really love Princess Aviama. I can relate to her with my own clumsiness and lack of self assurance. I feel a kinship with her which in turn makes me all the more inspired by her courage and willingness to try.
I loved, loved, LOVED the small spark of love that we got to see grow between Aviama and Chenzira in this book. Each of their interactions gave me the tingles and I can’t wait to see their relationship blossom! Did I mention that I love them? Haha!
E.A Winters never disappoints! I ate up every word of this book and couldn’t be more excited to set sail with book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2024
Aladdin meets Avatar the last air bender. Like if Jasmin had air bending abilities.
So much torture this girl goes through, I’m tired for her! It’s just one thing after another the next without taking a breath!
Which is why it took me a while to read it.
It had a couple cringy moments but they were important. It was the rough, unappealing, realistic training montage before every great hero becomes stronger.
I wish time can move faster because I can’t wait for the next one.
So much torture this girl goes through, I’m tired for her! It’s just one thing after another the next without taking a breath!
Which is why it took me a while to read it.
It had a couple cringy moments but they were important. It was the rough, unappealing, realistic training montage before every great hero becomes stronger.
I wish time can move faster because I can’t wait for the next one.
May 21, 2024
So so good!! Winters writes characters that are so lifelike and loveable (or hateable!) and the internal and external conflict is rich and pulls you along. I couldn't put it down. The plot in this series is really fantastic as well. I couldn't predict what would happen next and I was never disappointed. Also, the slow burn romance, will it happen, what is he thinking/feeling?? Gah! Can't handle it! 💕
February 20, 2024
An exciting sequel to Melderblood, Shadow Caste is fast-paced and enthralling. Blackmailed by multiple parties to play the part they want, Aviama is pulled every which way and not sure who to trust. This story is a rollercoaster of twists and turns, keeping the reader rooting for Aviama, but also never sure what’s going to happen next. Cant wait to see where the story goes in Book 3!
March 1, 2024
A great follow up to the first story. Action packed and full of intrigue . Avians is really starting to come into her own as she starts to explore her powers. You see cross overs from her other stories and hope to see more people. The story is well thought out and full immersion into the world she has built . Can’t wait to see what is next
June 5, 2024
I didn't think it could get more intense than the first book, and boy, was I wrong! Love the twists and turns to the story! At the end, I was just waiting at the edge of my seat to see how things played out, and then I couldn't believe how it turned out, and this is only the second book! If you're looking for intense, clean fantasy, this series should be on your list!
March 9, 2024
This was a good continuation of the story. There's more political intrigue, the fmc grows, there’s more elemental magic (that gives bending vibes!) And lots of action! There were surprises that had me gasping, and the end has me intrigued as to the direction it's taking.
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