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The Shadows of the Kingdom
Embrace the shadows or choose a path of light.
After defeating the evil behind the attacks on the southern lands of Caldumn, Wren and Tyran settle into their new life that begs to be calm… or so they thought.
Amid questions surrounding the Red Kingdom’s threat and the aftermath of Rhonin’s advance, Wren and Tyran receive an ominous letter from a mysterious magic kind that has remained hidden, warning of the Red Kingdom’s motives.
Left with the threat that won’t just be to the towns, but their world as they know it, Wren and Tyran begin the journey to stop the Red Kingdom at all costs. Faced with conflicting beliefs about what they should do, their relationship is tested in more ways than they can imagine.
The Shadows of the Kingdom is book two in a young adult fantasy trilogy, drawing you deeper into this world of high stakes quests, dark shadow magic, and struggles to keep a relationship whole when two minds are at odds at what’s right. This series is perfect for fans who love the cozy dark fantasy vibes Sorcery of Thorns but also love the epic fantasy vibes of The Witcher.
After defeating the evil behind the attacks on the southern lands of Caldumn, Wren and Tyran settle into their new life that begs to be calm… or so they thought.
Amid questions surrounding the Red Kingdom’s threat and the aftermath of Rhonin’s advance, Wren and Tyran receive an ominous letter from a mysterious magic kind that has remained hidden, warning of the Red Kingdom’s motives.
Left with the threat that won’t just be to the towns, but their world as they know it, Wren and Tyran begin the journey to stop the Red Kingdom at all costs. Faced with conflicting beliefs about what they should do, their relationship is tested in more ways than they can imagine.
The Shadows of the Kingdom is book two in a young adult fantasy trilogy, drawing you deeper into this world of high stakes quests, dark shadow magic, and struggles to keep a relationship whole when two minds are at odds at what’s right. This series is perfect for fans who love the cozy dark fantasy vibes Sorcery of Thorns but also love the epic fantasy vibes of The Witcher.
Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2024
3 people are currently reading
37 people want to read
About the author
Jen Bliton
6 books40 followersJennifer lives in Southern California with her husband, tiny human, and crew of cats.
Coming from a background in Content Creation, she and her husband livestream gaming content on Twitch and gaming content on YouTube, where you can find her playing World of Warcraft, and Diablo IV. She loves being out in her garden and tries her best to grow various fruits and veggies throughout the year among any flowers, bulbs, or roots she can get her hands on.
Coming from a background in Content Creation, she and her husband livestream gaming content on Twitch and gaming content on YouTube, where you can find her playing World of Warcraft, and Diablo IV. She loves being out in her garden and tries her best to grow various fruits and veggies throughout the year among any flowers, bulbs, or roots she can get her hands on.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 23, 2024
What an action-packed sequel! The story picked up where the last one left and held my attention the whole way brought with various twists and emotions and then the ending… ah… left off in a bit of a cliffhanger leaving me wanting the next book asap!
I enjoyed the growths of the characters in this one and also their relationship as well. I loved how they faced trials and grew stronger because of them.
I can’t wait to see how things unfold in the last book!!
I enjoyed the growths of the characters in this one and also their relationship as well. I loved how they faced trials and grew stronger because of them.
I can’t wait to see how things unfold in the last book!!
July 17, 2024
Dive Into the Enchanting World of 'Shadows of the Kingdom' by Jen Bliton
Fantasy lovers, get ready to be swept away into a world of magical artifacts, hidden towns, and awe-inspiring libraries! Jen Bliton’s "Shadows of the Kingdom," the riveting second installment in her young adult fantasy trilogy, offers everything you crave in a fantastical adventure. This book is a masterpiece of storytelling, with intricate plotlines, captivating characters, and spellbinding world-building.
Fantastical World Building
Bliton excels at creating an immersive world where portal travel, hidden towns, and magical artifacts coexist, providing readers with a rich and textured landscape to explore. And let's not forget the libraries—every bookworm's dream!
Well-Written Narrative
The narrative is fluid and engaging, drawing readers in with its conversational language and easy-to-follow writing style. You’ll find yourself effortlessly sucked into Wren and Tyran’s journey as they navigate the complexities of their new life and the looming threat from the Red Kingdom.
Complex Storyline and Magical System
The storyline is intricately layered, with a magical system that is both fascinating and meticulously crafted. Each page grips you tighter, thanks to the phenomenally developed characters and the expert weaving of multiple plot threads.
Action-Packed with Mind-Blowing Plot Twists
Bliton knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The action is relentless, and the plot twists are guaranteed to blow your mind. If you know, you know!
The Ultimate Page-Turner
This second installment will leave you eager to revisit the first book and impatiently awaiting the release of the third. The stakes are higher, the threats more menacing, and the emotional pull stronger than ever.
Why You Should Pick Up "Shadows of the Kingdom"
🌌 Fantastical World Building: Dive into a world of portal travel, hidden towns, magical artifacts, and, of course, all the libraries!
📝 Engaging Narrative: Get sucked in with Bliton’s easy-to-follow writing style and conversational language.
🧙♂️ Complex Storyline: Experience a phenomenal story with intricate layers and well-developed characters.
⚔️ Action-Packed: Prepare for relentless action and mind-blowing plot twists.
📚 Unputdownable Series: This second installment will make you want to reread book one and beg the author for book three.
Synopsis
After defeating the evil behind the attacks on the southern lands of Caldumn, Wren and Tyran are ready for a calm life—until they receive an ominous letter from a hidden magic kind warning of the Red Kingdom’s motives. Faced with new threats that endanger their world, Wren and Tyran must embark on a high-stakes quest, testing their relationship and their beliefs about what is right. This book is perfect for fans of "Sorcery of Thorns" and "The Witcher," blending cozy dark fantasy vibes with epic fantasy adventures.
Don't miss out on the enchanting and thrilling tale of "Shadows of the Kingdom" by Jen Bliton. Available now on Amazon, this is a book that fantasy lovers won't want to miss.
Fantasy lovers, get ready to be swept away into a world of magical artifacts, hidden towns, and awe-inspiring libraries! Jen Bliton’s "Shadows of the Kingdom," the riveting second installment in her young adult fantasy trilogy, offers everything you crave in a fantastical adventure. This book is a masterpiece of storytelling, with intricate plotlines, captivating characters, and spellbinding world-building.
Fantastical World Building
Bliton excels at creating an immersive world where portal travel, hidden towns, and magical artifacts coexist, providing readers with a rich and textured landscape to explore. And let's not forget the libraries—every bookworm's dream!
Well-Written Narrative
The narrative is fluid and engaging, drawing readers in with its conversational language and easy-to-follow writing style. You’ll find yourself effortlessly sucked into Wren and Tyran’s journey as they navigate the complexities of their new life and the looming threat from the Red Kingdom.
Complex Storyline and Magical System
The storyline is intricately layered, with a magical system that is both fascinating and meticulously crafted. Each page grips you tighter, thanks to the phenomenally developed characters and the expert weaving of multiple plot threads.
Action-Packed with Mind-Blowing Plot Twists
Bliton knows how to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The action is relentless, and the plot twists are guaranteed to blow your mind. If you know, you know!
The Ultimate Page-Turner
This second installment will leave you eager to revisit the first book and impatiently awaiting the release of the third. The stakes are higher, the threats more menacing, and the emotional pull stronger than ever.
Why You Should Pick Up "Shadows of the Kingdom"
🌌 Fantastical World Building: Dive into a world of portal travel, hidden towns, magical artifacts, and, of course, all the libraries!
📝 Engaging Narrative: Get sucked in with Bliton’s easy-to-follow writing style and conversational language.
🧙♂️ Complex Storyline: Experience a phenomenal story with intricate layers and well-developed characters.
⚔️ Action-Packed: Prepare for relentless action and mind-blowing plot twists.
📚 Unputdownable Series: This second installment will make you want to reread book one and beg the author for book three.
Synopsis
After defeating the evil behind the attacks on the southern lands of Caldumn, Wren and Tyran are ready for a calm life—until they receive an ominous letter from a hidden magic kind warning of the Red Kingdom’s motives. Faced with new threats that endanger their world, Wren and Tyran must embark on a high-stakes quest, testing their relationship and their beliefs about what is right. This book is perfect for fans of "Sorcery of Thorns" and "The Witcher," blending cozy dark fantasy vibes with epic fantasy adventures.
Don't miss out on the enchanting and thrilling tale of "Shadows of the Kingdom" by Jen Bliton. Available now on Amazon, this is a book that fantasy lovers won't want to miss.
July 15, 2024
The second book in “The Light in the Shadows” trilogy does not disappoint! Cozy dark fantasy with fade to black spice, ever deepening mystery, court politics, and unique magic systems that just keep getting more complex!
Wren is our FMC, and she and her partner Tyran have settled into Reapford. She has grown stronger and more sure of her magic and she and Tyran lobby the council in Reapford to allow everyone access to the library that Tyran’s father had kept only for the elite. The forces of darkness that reared their ugly heads in book one reappear with a vengeance! Wren insists that she and Tyran must use any and all methods necessary to ensure the safety of everyone who is against the Red Kingdom. Wren makes a difficult decision to go train with new allies when Tyran resists her pleas, with catastrophic results.
Our MMC Tyran is now the Baron of Reapford, having inherited the title upon his villainous father’s demise. He is working hard to do better for the good of everyone but the council in place when his father ruled are resistant at every turn. When darkness sings in his veins and begs for release, he continues to fight against it for fear of it consuming him like it did with his father. When he and Wren are at odds with the best path forward against the Red Kingdom, he responds out of fear and anger. , When his shadows can’t find Wren through their bond after she leaves to train with their allies in the fight, he pursues her, and comes to terms with his fear.
The world building in this series is really multilayered, and the author does a great job immersing you in the surroundings. I LOVE the messenger cats that get sent for communication, we get to interact with the Vulpini Bats again as transportation, and cool new plants and hidden communities are revealed. All different and unique.
Looking forward to book three!!
Wren is our FMC, and she and her partner Tyran have settled into Reapford. She has grown stronger and more sure of her magic and she and Tyran lobby the council in Reapford to allow everyone access to the library that Tyran’s father had kept only for the elite. The forces of darkness that reared their ugly heads in book one reappear with a vengeance! Wren insists that she and Tyran must use any and all methods necessary to ensure the safety of everyone who is against the Red Kingdom. Wren makes a difficult decision to go train with new allies when Tyran resists her pleas, with catastrophic results.
Our MMC Tyran is now the Baron of Reapford, having inherited the title upon his villainous father’s demise. He is working hard to do better for the good of everyone but the council in place when his father ruled are resistant at every turn. When darkness sings in his veins and begs for release, he continues to fight against it for fear of it consuming him like it did with his father. When he and Wren are at odds with the best path forward against the Red Kingdom, he responds out of fear and anger. , When his shadows can’t find Wren through their bond after she leaves to train with their allies in the fight, he pursues her, and comes to terms with his fear.
The world building in this series is really multilayered, and the author does a great job immersing you in the surroundings. I LOVE the messenger cats that get sent for communication, we get to interact with the Vulpini Bats again as transportation, and cool new plants and hidden communities are revealed. All different and unique.
Looking forward to book three!!
July 17, 2024
It’s so rare for me to love the sequel more than the first book which was the case for The Shadows of the Kingdom. I think a big reason for that is that we get Tyran’s POV. I love books with Dual POVs and it was great to have Tyran’s perspective. To understand what he’s going through. It definitely made me enjoy this story more and kept me interested.
I’ve grown to love Jen’s writing style! The world-building is incredible. Her descriptive writing allowed me to easily escape into this fantasy world, which I loved going back into. I also loved that this one is action-packed! I enjoyed seeing the messenger cats again too! So cute!
I love Wren and Tyran as a couple, and they are such a power couple! This is a YA fantasy romance, so there’s no spice but I barely minded that. The plot of the storyline grabbed my attention completely.
Overall, this was a great sequel. I’m excited to find out what happens next in book 3!
What you can expect:
💀Ancient evil
💀 Relationship struggles
💀 new monsters
💀 Undertaking quests
💀 Kingdom politics
💀 History revelations
A big thank you to the author for the gifted physical copy and R&R Book Tours for the review opportunity!! ❤️❤️
I’ve grown to love Jen’s writing style! The world-building is incredible. Her descriptive writing allowed me to easily escape into this fantasy world, which I loved going back into. I also loved that this one is action-packed! I enjoyed seeing the messenger cats again too! So cute!
I love Wren and Tyran as a couple, and they are such a power couple! This is a YA fantasy romance, so there’s no spice but I barely minded that. The plot of the storyline grabbed my attention completely.
Overall, this was a great sequel. I’m excited to find out what happens next in book 3!
What you can expect:
💀Ancient evil
💀 Relationship struggles
💀 new monsters
💀 Undertaking quests
💀 Kingdom politics
💀 History revelations
A big thank you to the author for the gifted physical copy and R&R Book Tours for the review opportunity!! ❤️❤️
July 24, 2024
The Shadows of the Kingdom is part of a series and definitely you should read the first book which is entitled The Shadows of Wren. I loved the first book and had to read this second book as well as Tyran and Wren are my new favorite bookship.
In this book, Tyran and Wren are in Reapford as Tyran is the new Baron with his father’s passing. Tyran is a necromancer as we learned in the first book and Wren is his partner and also a mage. There is a message in this book about how women are powerful and should be able to be necromancers and included on things, as a trigger to some readers. So be warned about that if you are not a fan of the whole powerful woman thing in books.
I loved the Wren getting the library ready for the city and the dwellers there in. I am a huge library person and always wanted to work in a library or own a bookstore as a kid. This resonates well with me! The author does a tremendous job in writing an engaging book and the relationship between Wren and Tyran. They fit so well together as a couple. This book has it all, action, drama, intrigue, and much more!
In this book, Tyran and Wren are in Reapford as Tyran is the new Baron with his father’s passing. Tyran is a necromancer as we learned in the first book and Wren is his partner and also a mage. There is a message in this book about how women are powerful and should be able to be necromancers and included on things, as a trigger to some readers. So be warned about that if you are not a fan of the whole powerful woman thing in books.
I loved the Wren getting the library ready for the city and the dwellers there in. I am a huge library person and always wanted to work in a library or own a bookstore as a kid. This resonates well with me! The author does a tremendous job in writing an engaging book and the relationship between Wren and Tyran. They fit so well together as a couple. This book has it all, action, drama, intrigue, and much more!
July 16, 2024
*SLIGHT SPOILERS FOR BOTH BOOKS AHEAD*
This second book puts us right back into the aftermath of the battle from book 1- and also introduces lots of new threats from every angle. The story progresses in a way that reminds me a little of a D&D campaign, and it is reminiscent of LotR & GoT at times! It is definitely what I would consider high fantasy but I did like the romance aspect- for some reason I was really invested in Gunnar and Oona’s relationship! I also felt for Wren when she was frustrated with Tyran for not wanting to explore their powers, or at the very least learn more about them. Their journey to finding and controlling their dark powers was bumpy! Overall this was an epic and amazing second part of the story that really and truly rings *fantasy*
This second book puts us right back into the aftermath of the battle from book 1- and also introduces lots of new threats from every angle. The story progresses in a way that reminds me a little of a D&D campaign, and it is reminiscent of LotR & GoT at times! It is definitely what I would consider high fantasy but I did like the romance aspect- for some reason I was really invested in Gunnar and Oona’s relationship! I also felt for Wren when she was frustrated with Tyran for not wanting to explore their powers, or at the very least learn more about them. Their journey to finding and controlling their dark powers was bumpy! Overall this was an epic and amazing second part of the story that really and truly rings *fantasy*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2024
“The Shadows of The Kingdom” is the second book in the captivating YA fantasy series. The story picks up where the first book left off delving right back into the action! There were so many twists and turns in this book I couldn’t put it down.
I can’t help but draw similarities to RPG games like dungeons and dragons which is absolutely not a bad thing! The magic systems and lore are so interesting, which really helps to elevate the story.
I adore Jen’s writing style so much! She manages to balance action within the story brilliantly. She also writes wonderful multi-dimensional characters which bring the story to life!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and cannot wait for book three after that cliffhanger hanger! If you enjoy YA fantasy with intricate magic systems, and a touch of romance then “The Shadows of the Kingdom” is definitely for you!
I can’t help but draw similarities to RPG games like dungeons and dragons which is absolutely not a bad thing! The magic systems and lore are so interesting, which really helps to elevate the story.
I adore Jen’s writing style so much! She manages to balance action within the story brilliantly. She also writes wonderful multi-dimensional characters which bring the story to life!
Overall, I enjoyed this book and cannot wait for book three after that cliffhanger hanger! If you enjoy YA fantasy with intricate magic systems, and a touch of romance then “The Shadows of the Kingdom” is definitely for you!
June 21, 2024
‘but when she let me in to see all of her; the parts of her she felt were weak, the parts she was unsure of, and the parts that she couldn’t embrace, and yet, they were all beautiful to me. they were drops of starlight that built her into the dark star i saw her as.’
a must read for any romantasy fan!
wren and tyran are one of my favourite book couples and the fact we got tyran’s pov in this book is actually my favourite thing ever🥹
the pacing felt a little off in places but there was so much action in this book that i literally could not put it down and i’ll now be (not so) patiently waiting for the third installment🤭
a must read for any romantasy fan!
wren and tyran are one of my favourite book couples and the fact we got tyran’s pov in this book is actually my favourite thing ever🥹
the pacing felt a little off in places but there was so much action in this book that i literally could not put it down and i’ll now be (not so) patiently waiting for the third installment🤭
July 16, 2024
This second book in a YA fantasy series does a nice job of picking up from the first book and it makes the reader really want to know what’s in store for Tyran and Wren! Speaking of the duo- such great chemistry and a fun pairing that made me keep wanting to turn the pages to see what they would get up to next. A great fantasy with delightful world building and I would recommend you put this one on your TBR!
July 17, 2024
Shadows of the Kingdom by Jen Bilton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the second book in The Light in the Shadows series and picks up were booked one left off. It is a great YA fantasy read with excellent world building, unique magic and political intrigue that pull you in and don’t let go. I enjoyed getting Tyran’s point of view in this one. I love Wren and Tyran’s relationship. It ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next one! Highly recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the second book in The Light in the Shadows series and picks up were booked one left off. It is a great YA fantasy read with excellent world building, unique magic and political intrigue that pull you in and don’t let go. I enjoyed getting Tyran’s point of view in this one. I love Wren and Tyran’s relationship. It ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait for the next one! Highly recommend!
July 27, 2024
The second installment deepens Wren and Tyran's journey as they face new threats. The new couple is drawn into another high-stakes quest that tests their relationship.
One of the standout aspects of this book is the realistic depiction of Wren and Tyran's relationship. Unlike many fantasy romances that either rush the relationship or focus on a slow build, Bliton portrays their bond with a refreshing realism. They argue and have differing opinions, but ultimately work together to overcome these challenges. This realistic portrayal of a maturing relationship adds a layer of authenticity that I appreciate.
The world-building continues to expand in this installment. While the detailed world-building is intriguing, it sometimes takes a backseat to the relationship dynamics, resulting in pacing that can feel uneven at times. Despite these minor pacing issues, the story remains compelling. Overall, it manages to balance the growth of its characters with an ever-expanding magical world.
Thanks to the author and R&R Booktours for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
One of the standout aspects of this book is the realistic depiction of Wren and Tyran's relationship. Unlike many fantasy romances that either rush the relationship or focus on a slow build, Bliton portrays their bond with a refreshing realism. They argue and have differing opinions, but ultimately work together to overcome these challenges. This realistic portrayal of a maturing relationship adds a layer of authenticity that I appreciate.
The world-building continues to expand in this installment. While the detailed world-building is intriguing, it sometimes takes a backseat to the relationship dynamics, resulting in pacing that can feel uneven at times. Despite these minor pacing issues, the story remains compelling. Overall, it manages to balance the growth of its characters with an ever-expanding magical world.
Thanks to the author and R&R Booktours for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary.
July 11, 2024
Omg... why did it have to end on a cliffhanger?! Another amazing book. I love learning more about Wren and Tyran and their magic. I am looking forward to reading more of their story in the next book!
July 17, 2024
Magic and unique systems with hidden communities what more could you ask for in a fantasy
Looking forward to book 3 and learning what’s to come
Looking forward to book 3 and learning what’s to come
June 16, 2025
It was hard for me to get into the Shadows of the kingdom. Once I was able to get into it more I found myself really enjoying the characters, and their growth throughout this book. As always I appreciated the detail to environments that Jen Bliton puts into these books. She has an amazing way with words with descriptions! I look forward to the next book in the series!
August 21, 2024
The Shadows of the Kingdom picks up pretty soon after the last book ended. After the battle that left many dead in the lands of Caldumn Wren and Tyran are hoping for a peace as they settle in Reapford. Tyran is trying to correct the negative course his father had set this kingdom down but is getting resistance from the counsel and people who agreed with Rhonin's plans. Wren and Tyran are not in agreement in how to proceed after receiving a letter warning about the Red Kingdom's true motives. Wren wants to jump head first into training her shadow magic and Tyran is hesitant and reserved about exploring a magic he might not be able to control. I, personally, completely agree with Tyran, he was raised to be cautious and saw first hand the damaging effects of being lost and consumed to magic. I felt that Wren was much more whiny and selfish in this book. While I'm very excited she overcame her anxiety and feelings of not being enough, I think she overcompensated with being stubborn and reckless. She did not take Tyran's concerns seriously; even after she shows several signs of losing control. But, threats do not wait for them to be ready and they are thrown into another high-stakes quest to save their world.
I still very much enjoy these characters but I have to remind myself that this is YA and that Wren is 19 years old and is responding and reacting like the teenager she is. She fell victim to the trend of becoming a less likeable character in the second book (I'm looking at you Violet). Tyran is tyring to be the best leader for his people by being cautious and think through decisions. He still has a moment or two where his reactions are only emotionally based and increased communication is required between them. The story ends on one heck of a cliffhanger and I can't wait for the next installment.
Includes:
-epic adventure
-court politics
-ancient evil
-history revelations
-cliffhanger ending
-YA romance, no spice
I still very much enjoy these characters but I have to remind myself that this is YA and that Wren is 19 years old and is responding and reacting like the teenager she is. She fell victim to the trend of becoming a less likeable character in the second book (I'm looking at you Violet). Tyran is tyring to be the best leader for his people by being cautious and think through decisions. He still has a moment or two where his reactions are only emotionally based and increased communication is required between them. The story ends on one heck of a cliffhanger and I can't wait for the next installment.
Includes:
-epic adventure
-court politics
-ancient evil
-history revelations
-cliffhanger ending
-YA romance, no spice
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews