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Darkwielder: A Whispers of Dust & Darkness Prequel Novella
“Someday they will call you king.”
Discover how a dark destiny unfolds in this mid-series villain prequel novella that starts where Every Dark Shadow left off and traverses back in time.
Kier has lived all his life like a ghost, hidden away and unacknowledged by his only family, even as his sinister power is being sharpened as a weapon to wield in the king’s new Special Army.
When Kier learns secrets about his ancestry he was never meant to unbury, he realizes just how treacherous the kingdom is growing for magic-born like him, and what he will have to sacrifice to claim his destiny.
But the darkness that lies within may be the most difficult beast to slay.
Discover how a dark destiny unfolds in this mid-series villain prequel novella that starts where Every Dark Shadow left off and traverses back in time.
Kier has lived all his life like a ghost, hidden away and unacknowledged by his only family, even as his sinister power is being sharpened as a weapon to wield in the king’s new Special Army.
When Kier learns secrets about his ancestry he was never meant to unbury, he realizes just how treacherous the kingdom is growing for magic-born like him, and what he will have to sacrifice to claim his destiny.
But the darkness that lies within may be the most difficult beast to slay.
106 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 8, 2024
6 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Zimm
3 books180 followersSarah Zimm learned at six years old she could climb the highest of the high Wisconsin maples and imagine other worlds beyond her little city. She's been lost in daydreams and telling stories ever since. Sarah Zimm lives in Wisconsin with her husband and son and quirky mutt. She has a BA in journalism and mentors young authors. By the glow of the moon, she pens YA and adult fantasy adventures dusted with parallel worlds and slow-burn romance. When she's not writing, she's ever consumed with a good book, reheating tea, watching her husband jump around on stage with his guitar, and scrutinizing the shadows that lurk in the woods.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
July 21, 2025
I’m even more invested in this story after reading this novella, can’t wait to start book 2!
October 9, 2023
Do I have to say anything? I'm in love with the story, the plot, the whole concept of this series. The feelings it brings while you are reading.
In Every Dark Shadow we met him as The Darkwielder here we get to see him as Kier and learn why he got the name he did, we get to see pieces of his life and what made him who he is today.
I love the writing of this author, it's so easy to read and while you are reading you have whole movie in front of your eyes, the way she describes things and "happenings" in the books, the details. Not many authors succeed in making me feel like I'm not reading but actually am IN THE BOOK.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In Every Dark Shadow we met him as The Darkwielder here we get to see him as Kier and learn why he got the name he did, we get to see pieces of his life and what made him who he is today.
I love the writing of this author, it's so easy to read and while you are reading you have whole movie in front of your eyes, the way she describes things and "happenings" in the books, the details. Not many authors succeed in making me feel like I'm not reading but actually am IN THE BOOK.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2023
5 ⭐️
Darkwielder is a prequel novella in the Whispers of Dust & Darkness series. It follows the Darkwielder, known through most of the novella as Kier, as we learn the origins of the Darkwielder as we know him. We didn’t really get a ton of him in the first book, Every Dark Shadow, so I enjoyed getting to know him as a more fleshed out character rather than some villainous entity we don’t know much about.
Darkwielder was a really quick and enjoyable read. I thought I was a Falcon girly through and through after the first book but I think I maaaaay have been converted to a Kier girly after this novella. Shadow Daddy characters are always a weakness of mine…we’ll see though once the next book comes out. I do really love his character though. It was interesting to see his motivations for his “present day” actions, and we do get the main “present day” story advanced just a tiny bit. It’s not a ton, but I would say this advancement is incredibly important for wherever the next book will take us.
Overall, I highly recommend reading Darkwielder after Every Dark Shadow. I know sometimes people like to skip novellas, thinking they aren’t important, but this one definitely is! The Whispers of Dust & Darkness series is a fun new fantasy series that I think would be good for any reader, whether they’re a veteran of the fantasy genre or not. The world building and magic system are well done, and the characters are written in an engaging way. I found myself engrossed in the story of each character, both from the first book and this novella.
Thank you so much to the author Sarah Zimm and BookSirens for the ARC! All opinions are my own, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Darkwielder is a prequel novella in the Whispers of Dust & Darkness series. It follows the Darkwielder, known through most of the novella as Kier, as we learn the origins of the Darkwielder as we know him. We didn’t really get a ton of him in the first book, Every Dark Shadow, so I enjoyed getting to know him as a more fleshed out character rather than some villainous entity we don’t know much about.
Darkwielder was a really quick and enjoyable read. I thought I was a Falcon girly through and through after the first book but I think I maaaaay have been converted to a Kier girly after this novella. Shadow Daddy characters are always a weakness of mine…we’ll see though once the next book comes out. I do really love his character though. It was interesting to see his motivations for his “present day” actions, and we do get the main “present day” story advanced just a tiny bit. It’s not a ton, but I would say this advancement is incredibly important for wherever the next book will take us.
Overall, I highly recommend reading Darkwielder after Every Dark Shadow. I know sometimes people like to skip novellas, thinking they aren’t important, but this one definitely is! The Whispers of Dust & Darkness series is a fun new fantasy series that I think would be good for any reader, whether they’re a veteran of the fantasy genre or not. The world building and magic system are well done, and the characters are written in an engaging way. I found myself engrossed in the story of each character, both from the first book and this novella.
Thank you so much to the author Sarah Zimm and BookSirens for the ARC! All opinions are my own, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2023
This was a nice bit of background on a character we didn’t get to know very well in the first book. I appreciated the insight provided on who he is and what his motives are. I feel like it also builds up the narrative for the next main book in the series to pick up where book one left off.
I will say I found it to be too disconnected from book one. It was also very short. I’m aware that it’s a novella and a prequel to the events of book one, although I wasn’t aware of that when I selected the book - I’d just finished book one and was so excited to dive into the next chapter that I didn’t bother reading the synopsis. So that was shortsighted on my part and leaves me responsible for my own disappointment. But I can’t deny that I was a little disappointed.
I think this could have been turned into a full length novel or at least a slightly longer novella to really connect us with the MC of this book, Kier. It felt like I was fast forwarding through his story and it was a really interesting story so I’d liked to have spent more time in it. Hopefully we get more depth with this character in the story moving forward, I have a feeling we will.
Overall I’m glad to have this extra backstory before moving into the second full length novel, I can’t wait for it to come out!
Thanks to the Author and BookSirens for the ARC! It was my pleasure to read and review this book.
I will say I found it to be too disconnected from book one. It was also very short. I’m aware that it’s a novella and a prequel to the events of book one, although I wasn’t aware of that when I selected the book - I’d just finished book one and was so excited to dive into the next chapter that I didn’t bother reading the synopsis. So that was shortsighted on my part and leaves me responsible for my own disappointment. But I can’t deny that I was a little disappointed.
I think this could have been turned into a full length novel or at least a slightly longer novella to really connect us with the MC of this book, Kier. It felt like I was fast forwarding through his story and it was a really interesting story so I’d liked to have spent more time in it. Hopefully we get more depth with this character in the story moving forward, I have a feeling we will.
Overall I’m glad to have this extra backstory before moving into the second full length novel, I can’t wait for it to come out!
Thanks to the Author and BookSirens for the ARC! It was my pleasure to read and review this book.
November 25, 2024
I am really enjoying this series but I think it’s too similar to Shadow and Bone, particularly the Netflix series for me at times.
This prequel has very similar aspects to Demon in the wood as well of other aspects of S&B and I found myself a bit uncomfortable with just how similar they are. I couldn’t stop imagining these characters as the characters in the series which took away from it a bit for me.
No one else has mentioned it in their reviews, so maybe it’s just my perception, that’s not to say it’s a bad book, I really like the writing and I do want to read the next book, I’m just hoping it takes a more original approach to the storyline so that I don’t keep guessing what is going to happen next.
The aspects that were original in this and veered away from similarities to S&B are where this shines and I’m really hoping we get to lean more into those plot lines as I want to see where they go!!
This prequel has very similar aspects to Demon in the wood as well of other aspects of S&B and I found myself a bit uncomfortable with just how similar they are. I couldn’t stop imagining these characters as the characters in the series which took away from it a bit for me.
No one else has mentioned it in their reviews, so maybe it’s just my perception, that’s not to say it’s a bad book, I really like the writing and I do want to read the next book, I’m just hoping it takes a more original approach to the storyline so that I don’t keep guessing what is going to happen next.
The aspects that were original in this and veered away from similarities to S&B are where this shines and I’m really hoping we get to lean more into those plot lines as I want to see where they go!!
December 10, 2023
Rcvd an advanced reader copy from booksirens for giving my two cents. We meet spellcaster Kier who his uncle keeps on a tight leash learning the ways of thr throne. Kier is going to be ascended thrn will lead his uncles army. Kier is kept away from others because of his shadows. He doesn't have friends other than delphine, his attendant and longs to do things like other teens. One day he sneaks out and meet another kid who invites him on a hunt with others. It's forbidden for Kier to leave the castle but part of him wants to be rebellious. What kier didn't know was this trip was a trap...the other kids mean to do him harm and his shadows burst forth protecting him. He didn't realize the consequences of his actions and he learns the truth from a source he thought was dead.
October 21, 2023
I read Every Dark Shadow not long ago and I absolutely loved it. When I heard about this novella, of course I wanted to read it! This book is heartbreaking and intriguing at the same time. Watching the making of a villain was intense. Sometimes cruelty itself creates the villains we fear.
I loved getting insight into one of the more mysterious characters from Every Dark Shadow. I wasn't sure what to expect from this novella and the storyline was so interesting.
I loved the chapter headers in Every Dark Shadow and I'm so glad the author included the same thing in Darkwielder. They are beautiful.
I recieved an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
I loved getting insight into one of the more mysterious characters from Every Dark Shadow. I wasn't sure what to expect from this novella and the storyline was so interesting.
I loved the chapter headers in Every Dark Shadow and I'm so glad the author included the same thing in Darkwielder. They are beautiful.
I recieved an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 28, 2024
This novella instantly immerses you back into the captivating world of Magus in the most intriguing and delicious way: exploring the Darkwielder’s backstory.
“The Darkwielder” serves as both a prequel and a sequel to “Every Dark Shadow.” I do recommend reading it while Every Dark Shadow is still fresh in your mind, as it did take me a bit to remember some of the necessary lore and storylines (as I read Every Dark Shadow quite a few books ago!). I devoured this quick read in one sitting and am now ready to go binge Every Dark Shadow again in eager anticipation for the second novel in the Whispers of Dust & Darkness duology.
An excellent novella filled with everything I enjoy in a good fantasy! I could’ve easily read a full length novel on Kier; the biggest downside to this book is that it’s only ~106 pages and I wanted more!
Huge thank you to BookSirens & Sarah Zimm for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
“The Darkwielder” serves as both a prequel and a sequel to “Every Dark Shadow.” I do recommend reading it while Every Dark Shadow is still fresh in your mind, as it did take me a bit to remember some of the necessary lore and storylines (as I read Every Dark Shadow quite a few books ago!). I devoured this quick read in one sitting and am now ready to go binge Every Dark Shadow again in eager anticipation for the second novel in the Whispers of Dust & Darkness duology.
An excellent novella filled with everything I enjoy in a good fantasy! I could’ve easily read a full length novel on Kier; the biggest downside to this book is that it’s only ~106 pages and I wanted more!
Huge thank you to BookSirens & Sarah Zimm for a free e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 5, 2024
**I received an advance reader copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily** This prequel was absolutely amazing! I loved everything! Sarah blew it out of the park again. If you haven’t read Every Dark Shadow read it before you read this book! Both of them are amazing and I can’t wait to read more from Sarah!
July 6, 2025
YOU MADE ME LOVE HIM WHYYYYY?!?
December 31, 2023
Assuming that you have already read Every Dark Shadow…
First, I would like to acknowledge how AMAZING Sarah Zimm’s writing style is. It’s moody and dark, and grips you in a way that time seems to slip past comprehension. Her precise use of figurative language and imagery draws you in, and you find yourself walking into those eerie woods with Keir feeling the excitement, weariness, panic, and dread as he does. Sarah, I believe truly mastered the mood she intended to come across to the readers.
Sarah created a beautiful, fantastical world parallel to 1800s London. She is talented at crafting a world that literally sucks you through a portal to meet 3 delicious Keepers and Guardians with various kinds of unique magic. I wasn't ready for the gripping plot.
She has now created a moody, dark, made-to-be-a-villian, alluring Darkwielder named Keir! I need more of him! Keir needs more than a novella! I'm praying he gets his own POV throughout the series. Also... I might be shipping Keir and Ophelia together now because enemies-to-lovers is a must!
“There was no leaving the darkness when the darkness was in you” (pg 45).
“If you stay, if you are patient, if you refuse to let your Uncle and this world blacken your heart, you may just change things - from inside” (pg 66).
“Anyone is capable of anything under the right circumstances” (pg 51).
The Novella of the Darkwielder begins moments after the “big bang” we anxiously anticipated for in Every Dark Shadow. Most of the story goes in depth 35 years prior, but Keir as the lead main character. Grimm is tutoring Keir completely hidden away from prying eyes and ears until he is ascended to lead the Gray King’s Special Army. We see how confinement and loneliness can affect someone’s mental state. Keir longs to have a friend and experience things that young men do his age. He disobeys the commands to remain hidden by Grimm, his tutor, and his Uncle, the Gray King, which leads to multiple altercations and serious consequences. Keir loses his innocence in more ways than one. Keir is forced into a situation in which he must protect himself, but he had no idea the full extent of his power and what it was capable of. Was he a monster? The loss and death seem to surround his every essence. He finds that many people in the castle are not who they seem to be, playing sides and theatrics. Keir unravels secrets that he wasn’t supposed to uncover and it holds the key to possibilities for a new future. He must submit to the King’s rule and lead his Special Army. Will he be able to make a difference from the inside?
I am thankful for this novella because it brings a lot of light on the Darkwielder as a character, and I’m curious to see how he develops throughout the series. Keir is truly an alluring character who has great potential and power. I honestly could read a whole spinoff from Keir’s POV.
I would definitely recommend the Whispers of Dust & Darkness series to anyone who loves an eerie, dark fantasy. The first book, Every Dark Shadow, has no spice but plenty of banter and angst that will leave you hanging at the edge of your seat, anticipating that first hungry kiss. This novella, Darkwielder, has one mild spicy scene, but it is bittersweet.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First, I would like to acknowledge how AMAZING Sarah Zimm’s writing style is. It’s moody and dark, and grips you in a way that time seems to slip past comprehension. Her precise use of figurative language and imagery draws you in, and you find yourself walking into those eerie woods with Keir feeling the excitement, weariness, panic, and dread as he does. Sarah, I believe truly mastered the mood she intended to come across to the readers.
Sarah created a beautiful, fantastical world parallel to 1800s London. She is talented at crafting a world that literally sucks you through a portal to meet 3 delicious Keepers and Guardians with various kinds of unique magic. I wasn't ready for the gripping plot.
She has now created a moody, dark, made-to-be-a-villian, alluring Darkwielder named Keir! I need more of him! Keir needs more than a novella! I'm praying he gets his own POV throughout the series. Also... I might be shipping Keir and Ophelia together now because enemies-to-lovers is a must!
“There was no leaving the darkness when the darkness was in you” (pg 45).
“If you stay, if you are patient, if you refuse to let your Uncle and this world blacken your heart, you may just change things - from inside” (pg 66).
“Anyone is capable of anything under the right circumstances” (pg 51).
The Novella of the Darkwielder begins moments after the “big bang” we anxiously anticipated for in Every Dark Shadow. Most of the story goes in depth 35 years prior, but Keir as the lead main character. Grimm is tutoring Keir completely hidden away from prying eyes and ears until he is ascended to lead the Gray King’s Special Army. We see how confinement and loneliness can affect someone’s mental state. Keir longs to have a friend and experience things that young men do his age. He disobeys the commands to remain hidden by Grimm, his tutor, and his Uncle, the Gray King, which leads to multiple altercations and serious consequences. Keir loses his innocence in more ways than one. Keir is forced into a situation in which he must protect himself, but he had no idea the full extent of his power and what it was capable of. Was he a monster? The loss and death seem to surround his every essence. He finds that many people in the castle are not who they seem to be, playing sides and theatrics. Keir unravels secrets that he wasn’t supposed to uncover and it holds the key to possibilities for a new future. He must submit to the King’s rule and lead his Special Army. Will he be able to make a difference from the inside?
I am thankful for this novella because it brings a lot of light on the Darkwielder as a character, and I’m curious to see how he develops throughout the series. Keir is truly an alluring character who has great potential and power. I honestly could read a whole spinoff from Keir’s POV.
I would definitely recommend the Whispers of Dust & Darkness series to anyone who loves an eerie, dark fantasy. The first book, Every Dark Shadow, has no spice but plenty of banter and angst that will leave you hanging at the edge of your seat, anticipating that first hungry kiss. This novella, Darkwielder, has one mild spicy scene, but it is bittersweet.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 4, 2024
Darkwielder is a novella that takes place both following Every Dark Shadow and thirty five years ago, as we explore the Darkwielder’s backstory. We meet him at the final confrontation of Every Dark Shadow, and there’s a clear connection between him and Ophelia, but she still escapes away with Falcon. The Darkwielder wakes up, injured, and as he begins to gather strength to heal himself, he thinks back to what brought him to this point, and his history with King Osiris.
The Darkwielder, then known as Kier, was the secret nephew of the King, kept hidden and taught under Grimm to wield his shadows. The King manipulates him with little bits of hope. Telling him he’ll acknowledge him as his kin, when he clearly has no intention to do so. Kier is lonely, only able to see servants, Grimm, and the few soldiers who are aware of him, outside the King who he only sees occasionally. He’s fallen in love with a servant, Delphine, and the two have a very innocent relationship, hampered by the circumstances. Kier is desperate for the chance to be normal. To do something normal boys do. When the Crat children prepare to go for a hunt, a boy he meant in the halls invites him along. Except it’s all a set up, and he ends up making his first kill. The repercussions of this damage his relationship with Delphine, but it’s clear there’s still love there despite her anger.
When Kier makes a decision to escape, Grimm stop him, instead of leading him to the truth. About everything. Kier’s world is changed forever. He goes along with being named General of the newly formed Special Army, which the King thinks will allow him to puppeteer Kier until harming his own people. But Kier is changed by his experiences, harder, darker, and he plays the game so he can find allies. We find out he went back to the castle later, but failed to get two important things. Though, it seems his promise to Delphine is either broken or impossible now, as his plans certainly lead him in a different direction. Though, how Ophelia will feel about that is another question. It would be one way to resolve the love square, making her go with someone else entirely! I do have to admit I love that idea, and the connection between them reminds me so much of the Darkling and Alina in Shadow and Bone. I hated that they didn’t end up together, so that would be amazing. Though, who knows what the future of this series will bring!
I did love getting this look at the Darkwielder’s backstory. We see what made him the man he is today, understand his goals better, and what exactly had been happening in the background all these years. So many things we know about Magus were shaped by either the king or Kier. Knowing he created the Belly, for instance. But you also have to wonder if he’s too far gone from the innocent boy he once was. Now willing to kill whole swathes of men at once. I’m anxious to get the next book in this series to see where this is going!
I received an ARC of this book. These are my honest thoughts and review.
The Darkwielder, then known as Kier, was the secret nephew of the King, kept hidden and taught under Grimm to wield his shadows. The King manipulates him with little bits of hope. Telling him he’ll acknowledge him as his kin, when he clearly has no intention to do so. Kier is lonely, only able to see servants, Grimm, and the few soldiers who are aware of him, outside the King who he only sees occasionally. He’s fallen in love with a servant, Delphine, and the two have a very innocent relationship, hampered by the circumstances. Kier is desperate for the chance to be normal. To do something normal boys do. When the Crat children prepare to go for a hunt, a boy he meant in the halls invites him along. Except it’s all a set up, and he ends up making his first kill. The repercussions of this damage his relationship with Delphine, but it’s clear there’s still love there despite her anger.
When Kier makes a decision to escape, Grimm stop him, instead of leading him to the truth. About everything. Kier’s world is changed forever. He goes along with being named General of the newly formed Special Army, which the King thinks will allow him to puppeteer Kier until harming his own people. But Kier is changed by his experiences, harder, darker, and he plays the game so he can find allies. We find out he went back to the castle later, but failed to get two important things. Though, it seems his promise to Delphine is either broken or impossible now, as his plans certainly lead him in a different direction. Though, how Ophelia will feel about that is another question. It would be one way to resolve the love square, making her go with someone else entirely! I do have to admit I love that idea, and the connection between them reminds me so much of the Darkling and Alina in Shadow and Bone. I hated that they didn’t end up together, so that would be amazing. Though, who knows what the future of this series will bring!
I did love getting this look at the Darkwielder’s backstory. We see what made him the man he is today, understand his goals better, and what exactly had been happening in the background all these years. So many things we know about Magus were shaped by either the king or Kier. Knowing he created the Belly, for instance. But you also have to wonder if he’s too far gone from the innocent boy he once was. Now willing to kill whole swathes of men at once. I’m anxious to get the next book in this series to see where this is going!
I received an ARC of this book. These are my honest thoughts and review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2024
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️.5
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reading Order: Read the full length novel first.
General Thoughts: I love Sarah Zimm. Her writing style is dark and moody and perfect! This book is perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo. My only complaint was that this was only 106 pages, and I wanted so much more. Every Dark Shadow (the first book) was one my of my favorites last year, and I'm dying for more from this author and this world. She has definitely caught my interest.
This is a prequel villain origin story, a very intriguing one. I was invested from the first page to the last. I don't want to say too much for fear of giving things away, but if you haven't checked out this series yet, you absolutely need to because it is fantastic!
Sarah Zimm is a fantastic writer.
Spice Meter:❤️🔥 A scene but very very tame.
Romantic Tropes
-fantasy
-prequel novella
-villain origin story
-series
You can read more of my reviews on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reading Order: Read the full length novel first.
General Thoughts: I love Sarah Zimm. Her writing style is dark and moody and perfect! This book is perfect for fans of Leigh Bardugo. My only complaint was that this was only 106 pages, and I wanted so much more. Every Dark Shadow (the first book) was one my of my favorites last year, and I'm dying for more from this author and this world. She has definitely caught my interest.
This is a prequel villain origin story, a very intriguing one. I was invested from the first page to the last. I don't want to say too much for fear of giving things away, but if you haven't checked out this series yet, you absolutely need to because it is fantastic!
Sarah Zimm is a fantastic writer.
Spice Meter:❤️🔥 A scene but very very tame.
Romantic Tropes
-fantasy
-prequel novella
-villain origin story
-series
You can read more of my reviews on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
October 20, 2023
Darkwielder ~ A Whispers of Dust & Darkness Prequel Novella by Sarah Zimm is a gorgeously magical woven tale with a hint of darkness about our mysterious Darkwielder that we are introduced to in Every Dark Shadow.
From page one I was immediately drawn into the story which started from what happened in book one and then faded into the Darkwielders past explaining how he became who he is and exactly how powerful he really is.
The author does an amazing job bringing the story and realm to life in so few pages as well as developing the characters. I love that we got a further glimpse into the world and how the magic system works.
I read this gorgeous book in no time and absolutely loved every page making me even more excited for the next book. If you haven’t already read Every Dark Shadow I cannot recommend it enough ~ along with this magical prequel it is a must read.
From page one I was immediately drawn into the story which started from what happened in book one and then faded into the Darkwielders past explaining how he became who he is and exactly how powerful he really is.
The author does an amazing job bringing the story and realm to life in so few pages as well as developing the characters. I love that we got a further glimpse into the world and how the magic system works.
I read this gorgeous book in no time and absolutely loved every page making me even more excited for the next book. If you haven’t already read Every Dark Shadow I cannot recommend it enough ~ along with this magical prequel it is a must read.
January 20, 2025
Oh my goodness this book! I was not expecting to have such an emotional reaction to a 9 chapter novella but my heart was hurting for this MC. The author took a naive young man who just wanted friendship and to be loved and sent him through such heartache to become the villainous character we've been introduced to. The growth in such a short time frame was believable and heartbreaking, creating the foundation for a morally gray MMC that readers are going to fall in love with. Also, we get a spicy scene! This book should be read immediately following Every Dark Shadow and before Every Thread of Light. Favorite quote "He wasn't a freak or unnatural. Not with her. As long as he had her, he'd never be unloved. He'd never be the villain."
November 9, 2023
Darkwielder. A Whispers of Dust & Darkness Novella.
This is a wonderful insight into a different perspective/POV which adds to the first book ‘Every Dark Shadow’ The plotline is slightly clarified or perhaps broadened, making the overall story that much more rounded.
This book gives us a perspective into one of the main characters in the Whispers of Dust & Darkness series. And it is brilliantly done. Giving a sense of compassion to an otherwise untold character that is maybe not be such a ‘bad guy’ after all.
A must if you are a fan of this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a wonderful insight into a different perspective/POV which adds to the first book ‘Every Dark Shadow’ The plotline is slightly clarified or perhaps broadened, making the overall story that much more rounded.
This book gives us a perspective into one of the main characters in the Whispers of Dust & Darkness series. And it is brilliantly done. Giving a sense of compassion to an otherwise untold character that is maybe not be such a ‘bad guy’ after all.
A must if you are a fan of this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 13, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
After reading Every Dark Shadow I immediately wanted more. When I saw that Sarah was releasing this novella, I got so excited. Then she announced it was about the Darkwielder and I was even more excited. This was The Darkwielder’s back story and it was soo good. It starts where EDS ends and ends leading into book 2. She recommends reading this after EDS and I completely agree. It gave so much insight to not only his back story but also more depth to a lot of other characters we saw in book 1. It was beautifully written and a quick read. At this point, I’d read anything Sarah Zimm writes!
After reading Every Dark Shadow I immediately wanted more. When I saw that Sarah was releasing this novella, I got so excited. Then she announced it was about the Darkwielder and I was even more excited. This was The Darkwielder’s back story and it was soo good. It starts where EDS ends and ends leading into book 2. She recommends reading this after EDS and I completely agree. It gave so much insight to not only his back story but also more depth to a lot of other characters we saw in book 1. It was beautifully written and a quick read. At this point, I’d read anything Sarah Zimm writes!
January 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this prequel as it gave more background to our darkwielder!
In this book, we follow Kier, who is always hidden away and is also a magic user. We get to see how he was when he was younger and his family.
Kier will slowly start to learn new things about his family history. And that alone starts to push him to be the way he is in current days. This was an engaging novella that kept me reading more!
This is turning into such a great series. I love the character building, world building, magic system, and the overall plot!
I received this book and an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thank you, Sarah, for this opportunity!!
In this book, we follow Kier, who is always hidden away and is also a magic user. We get to see how he was when he was younger and his family.
Kier will slowly start to learn new things about his family history. And that alone starts to push him to be the way he is in current days. This was an engaging novella that kept me reading more!
This is turning into such a great series. I love the character building, world building, magic system, and the overall plot!
I received this book and an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Thank you, Sarah, for this opportunity!!
January 10, 2024
What makes a monster?
If you have read “Every Dark Shadow” this villain novella will answer your questions and leave you with many more. Who is the true monster of this world? Are monsters born or are they made?
Sarah Zimm’s writing is incredible. You easily fall into this world and become a part of it, as much as it becomes a part of you.
The characters worm their way into your heart, with the authors incredible story telling. It’s a journey uncovering secrets, depicting the loss of innocents and experiencing what it takes to become the morally grey character we all love.
If you love fantasy, romance and suspense, I highly recommend diving into this world head first!
If you have read “Every Dark Shadow” this villain novella will answer your questions and leave you with many more. Who is the true monster of this world? Are monsters born or are they made?
Sarah Zimm’s writing is incredible. You easily fall into this world and become a part of it, as much as it becomes a part of you.
The characters worm their way into your heart, with the authors incredible story telling. It’s a journey uncovering secrets, depicting the loss of innocents and experiencing what it takes to become the morally grey character we all love.
If you love fantasy, romance and suspense, I highly recommend diving into this world head first!
October 16, 2023
***Arc Review ***
Flashback continuation of Every Dark Shadow featuring my favorite mysterious shadow daddy Kier aka the Darkwielder🥰
💯% for lovers of the Darkling from
Shadow & Bone!!
We get some of his backstory and a better understanding of what led him to become who he is now. I am Completely in love and fearing the possibility of him being revealed as a true villian...
Don't do this to me SARAH!!!🤞🙏🤨
Until then I'm rooting for a different outcome. Can't wait to learn how this plays out! Either way...
He can be My Villian!!🖤👑
Flashback continuation of Every Dark Shadow featuring my favorite mysterious shadow daddy Kier aka the Darkwielder🥰
💯% for lovers of the Darkling from
Shadow & Bone!!
We get some of his backstory and a better understanding of what led him to become who he is now. I am Completely in love and fearing the possibility of him being revealed as a true villian...
Don't do this to me SARAH!!!🤞🙏🤨
Until then I'm rooting for a different outcome. Can't wait to learn how this plays out! Either way...
He can be My Villian!!🖤👑
October 21, 2023
Nothing makes me want to re-read a book faster than getting a prequel. Excuse me, a good prequel. Kier wants so badly to be good, loved, and normal. He does what he's told while systematically being mentally, emotionally, and psychologically abused by the only family he has. His pain and heartbreak feel so real, you can feel the culmination of the years of abuse and neglect as you read the pages in your heart and soul. Watching him have to break to his core and then rebuild himself from the jagged edges and broken pieces that remain leave you inspired. I cannot wait to see more of him.
December 12, 2023
Okay, well...I mean, he's a villain but also...I love him?
The Darkwielder, aka Kier, is SO fleshed out in this novella. It seems short but there's so much we learn in that short time. And I love nothing more than exploring the backstories of villains.
Absolutely loved this, and i feel my experience going into book 2 will be different now that I've met Kier in a way we didn't get to meet in Every Dark Shadow.
Everything Sarah keeps releasing is magic, pun intended. Definitely recommend this book, even if it's only to kinda sorta find another villain attractive. It's worth it. 😏
The Darkwielder, aka Kier, is SO fleshed out in this novella. It seems short but there's so much we learn in that short time. And I love nothing more than exploring the backstories of villains.
Absolutely loved this, and i feel my experience going into book 2 will be different now that I've met Kier in a way we didn't get to meet in Every Dark Shadow.
Everything Sarah keeps releasing is magic, pun intended. Definitely recommend this book, even if it's only to kinda sorta find another villain attractive. It's worth it. 😏
December 28, 2023
This is an excellent prequel novella to Every Dark Shadow.
I love that we got background and character building for the Darkwielder here. He didn't get enough of a spotlight in the first book, so this shows promise to me that he will have more of a role in the next book.
This author does and excellent job of fully immersing you in their world and stories, I feel like I'm right there for all of it. I cant wait for the next book in this series to come out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love that we got background and character building for the Darkwielder here. He didn't get enough of a spotlight in the first book, so this shows promise to me that he will have more of a role in the next book.
This author does and excellent job of fully immersing you in their world and stories, I feel like I'm right there for all of it. I cant wait for the next book in this series to come out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2024
I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really liked this novella. It gave me background information about one character we didn’t get to know much of in the first book. I would have liked if the book was a little longer to connect more to the characters but I still liked it and enjoyed reading about him. Yes it was a bit too fast but it was a novella so it was expected. I liked reading about what motivated him to take actions in the first book and understanding him more. Overall this was a very good book and I will be continuing this series.
I really liked this novella. It gave me background information about one character we didn’t get to know much of in the first book. I would have liked if the book was a little longer to connect more to the characters but I still liked it and enjoyed reading about him. Yes it was a bit too fast but it was a novella so it was expected. I liked reading about what motivated him to take actions in the first book and understanding him more. Overall this was a very good book and I will be continuing this series.
February 7, 2025
Read it!
The darkwielder is a novella of kiers story.
He is seen as the villian of the story in every dark shadow. It seems in this novella hes also regarded as a villian. The people call him the darkwielder because he controls shadows.
Wanting to be a normal 17 year old and make friends he goes against the king, his 'uncle'.
Kier finds out his bloodline and why hes so special.
I now have a better idea of why jory dagon is so loyal to the king.
He starts his journey
And gets allies against his battle to the crown.
You definitely have to read book one first!
The darkwielder is a novella of kiers story.
He is seen as the villian of the story in every dark shadow. It seems in this novella hes also regarded as a villian. The people call him the darkwielder because he controls shadows.
Wanting to be a normal 17 year old and make friends he goes against the king, his 'uncle'.
Kier finds out his bloodline and why hes so special.
I now have a better idea of why jory dagon is so loyal to the king.
He starts his journey
And gets allies against his battle to the crown.
You definitely have to read book one first!
July 18, 2025
4.0 — Seeing as how we have an unreliable narrator in this series, I am not sure if this is a villain or hero origin story. But we learn more about the young adult years, and to a lesser extent, the childhood, of the Darkwielder/Kier Lestat.
At this point, I am still unclear who he will become to our FMC — her arch enemy or her love interest… Or both?!?! At this point, we believe him to be, in the very least, her nemesis, so it will be interesting to. continue the second book in the series with this knowledge.
Happy reading!
At this point, I am still unclear who he will become to our FMC — her arch enemy or her love interest… Or both?!?! At this point, we believe him to be, in the very least, her nemesis, so it will be interesting to. continue the second book in the series with this knowledge.
Happy reading!
October 26, 2023
While Every Dark Shadow was a beautiful introduction into A Whispers of Dust & Darkness universe, it only scratched the surface of Zimm’s capabilities. With her haunting prose and complex characters, this was a novella that left me starved for more.
Darkwielder cuts open the world of Magus and lays it bare. The novella magnifies the horror of prejudice and political corruption by telling it from the perspective of a villain who was not born evil — but twisted by tragedy.
Kier is a soul who must choose power as the road to peace. He is the hero in his own story, and the villain in Ophelia’s.
I cannot wait to see how it all ends!
I received an ARC of this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily
Darkwielder cuts open the world of Magus and lays it bare. The novella magnifies the horror of prejudice and political corruption by telling it from the perspective of a villain who was not born evil — but twisted by tragedy.
Kier is a soul who must choose power as the road to peace. He is the hero in his own story, and the villain in Ophelia’s.
I cannot wait to see how it all ends!
I received an ARC of this book for free and am leaving this review voluntarily
November 12, 2023
The mid-series novella to A Whispers of Dust & Darkness is the perfect book to read before diving into the first book. I love the background we are given, knowledge of the characters, and a peak at the author's writing style.
The story follows Darkwielder, also known as Kier. I loved that we were given this chance to read about Kier and put together some theories of our own.
peek
The cover of the book is what caught my attention, it is stunning.
The story follows Darkwielder, also known as Kier. I loved that we were given this chance to read about Kier and put together some theories of our own.
peek
The cover of the book is what caught my attention, it is stunning.
September 22, 2024
Wow 🤩 soooo much information was poured into such a short amount of book! This answers about half of my questions, but definitely need more!
The dark wielder is a short book that helps us understand some of the back story before moving on to Every thread of light.
To get to know the dark wielder after only getting glimpses of him in every dark shadow, was intense! He definitely has some shadows that follow him everywhere he goes 😉
The dark wielder is a short book that helps us understand some of the back story before moving on to Every thread of light.
To get to know the dark wielder after only getting glimpses of him in every dark shadow, was intense! He definitely has some shadows that follow him everywhere he goes 😉
January 4, 2025
I really enjoyed having this prequel novella to enrich the series!
I admit, I saw it advertised as a villain prequel, but I think he's just the morally grey MMC of the story. Anything that he did wasn't very villainous, especially when you find out the reasons.
I'm VERY intrigued to see where his story goes in Every Thread of Light as he meets back up with Ophelia (hopefully!)
Read if you love:
-Morally grey MMC
-Forbidden love
-Kingdom politics
I admit, I saw it advertised as a villain prequel, but I think he's just the morally grey MMC of the story. Anything that he did wasn't very villainous, especially when you find out the reasons.
I'm VERY intrigued to see where his story goes in Every Thread of Light as he meets back up with Ophelia (hopefully!)
Read if you love:
-Morally grey MMC
-Forbidden love
-Kingdom politics
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