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The Queen's Shadow
She would do anything to keep her queen safe. He was the one man who stood in her way.
As the queen’s shadow, Cassandra Macia will do anything to keep her sovereign safe. Arphaxad Ilin Serra will do whatever he can to bring her down. With tensions between their two nations rising, Cassandra cannot afford to let that happen.
But something dark is brewing in the mountains, something that might threaten the existence of both their kingdoms. When Arphaxad turns up unexpectedly with an offer of help, he and Cassandra are flung into a labyrinth of lies, intrigue, and an ancient magic that could upend the fate of their world. Now they will have to set aside their differences in order to safeguard their kingdoms. And they will also be forced to face the most terrifying truth of that they just might be falling for each other.
The Queen’s Shadow is a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance novella. If you love the complex intrigue of Megan Whalen Turner’s Queen’s Thief series and the slow-burn romance of Sherwood Smith, then this book is for you.Buy now or read for free on Kindle Unlimited!
As the queen’s shadow, Cassandra Macia will do anything to keep her sovereign safe. Arphaxad Ilin Serra will do whatever he can to bring her down. With tensions between their two nations rising, Cassandra cannot afford to let that happen.
But something dark is brewing in the mountains, something that might threaten the existence of both their kingdoms. When Arphaxad turns up unexpectedly with an offer of help, he and Cassandra are flung into a labyrinth of lies, intrigue, and an ancient magic that could upend the fate of their world. Now they will have to set aside their differences in order to safeguard their kingdoms. And they will also be forced to face the most terrifying truth of that they just might be falling for each other.
The Queen’s Shadow is a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance novella. If you love the complex intrigue of Megan Whalen Turner’s Queen’s Thief series and the slow-burn romance of Sherwood Smith, then this book is for you.Buy now or read for free on Kindle Unlimited!
157 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2024
104 people are currently reading
812 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 5, 2024
Cassandra, the secret sister of the Queen of Rendra, and Arphaxad the nephew of the enemy king from Medira, have had a long history of spying for their respective kingdoms. After an accidental partnership to find the secrets of the chanters from a common enemy territory, they find themselves in an exciting adventure of banter and slow-burn romance with plot twists along the way to peaceful kingdom alliances.
Being spies, it's their job to know the enemy. I loved that Arphaxad was patient and all-knowing about the secret Cassandra had to keep for her safety. He was always one step ahead of her. Through the many precarious situations she was thrown into, Arphaxad was always there to help her through it, even though he could have killed her instead. I would have loved to see more of his point of view in the book; maybe we'll see more of it in the future novellas!
This book was a fast-paced adventure and I can't wait to see where the next books take Cassandra and Arphaxad.
Thank you to the author, Rachel Song, for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review <3
Being spies, it's their job to know the enemy. I loved that Arphaxad was patient and all-knowing about the secret Cassandra had to keep for her safety. He was always one step ahead of her. Through the many precarious situations she was thrown into, Arphaxad was always there to help her through it, even though he could have killed her instead. I would have loved to see more of his point of view in the book; maybe we'll see more of it in the future novellas!
This book was a fast-paced adventure and I can't wait to see where the next books take Cassandra and Arphaxad.
Thank you to the author, Rachel Song, for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review <3
June 1, 2024
Any enemy to lovers fans who adore political intrigue need to drop everything to read this book. Cassandra and Arphaxad have such amazing chemistry that practically crackles across the pages and is highlighted by some absolutely top notch banter. The world building is so well done and detailed and makes me reminisce of fantasy stories I use to read when I was younger, like "Graceling" and "The Thief". I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this story and can't recommend it enough!
November 1, 2024
This was a cute tiny little slice of enemies to lovers perfection! I was so surprised by how much tension Song managed to cram into the shortest of novellas. It was like a tasty little snack that left me hungry for more!
I was a little disappointed that our fmc didn’t get to be a part of the main action at the end of the book when it came to defeating the bad guys; she went home to the castle and moped around for a long time till the love interest showed up to sweep her off her feet, the bad guys already as vanquished as they would be in this book. I will say, the sweeping of said feet was adorable and there were many awwww moments that made me smile!
I am impressed by what Song can accomplish in a very short number of pages, and I’m sure anything coming from this author will be equally impressive in the future!
I was a little disappointed that our fmc didn’t get to be a part of the main action at the end of the book when it came to defeating the bad guys; she went home to the castle and moped around for a long time till the love interest showed up to sweep her off her feet, the bad guys already as vanquished as they would be in this book. I will say, the sweeping of said feet was adorable and there were many awwww moments that made me smile!
I am impressed by what Song can accomplish in a very short number of pages, and I’m sure anything coming from this author will be equally impressive in the future!
June 1, 2024
The Queen’s Shadow is a very compelling story. Cassandra must protect her Queen and their kingdom. However, she keeps having encounters with her worst enemy, the neighboring kingdoms head of security, Arphaxad. Worse yet, she is enjoying them. Something that is impossible and not allowed. They will have to work together to save themselves, their kingdoms, and maybe the world.
I really enjoyed the book. It hooked me in from the very start. I loved how Cassandra and Arphaxad interacted with each other. It is a very good forbidden romance with elements of danger and political intrigue. I really enjoyed it! I hope you do as well!
I really enjoyed the book. It hooked me in from the very start. I loved how Cassandra and Arphaxad interacted with each other. It is a very good forbidden romance with elements of danger and political intrigue. I really enjoyed it! I hope you do as well!
May 31, 2024
From the very first page, Rachel paints a clear picture of who her two characters are and we can understand the journey their relationship is about to take.
This is an action-packed novella with fun little twists and a great romance. Don't leave it behind for your next afternoon read!
This is an action-packed novella with fun little twists and a great romance. Don't leave it behind for your next afternoon read!
July 10, 2024
4.5
this was a really fun and fast read loved the happy ending - if it was longer omg
this was a really fun and fast read loved the happy ending - if it was longer omg
May 28, 2024
A really fun read with an engaging romance. It will pull you in from the first page with court intrigue, romantic tension, and a strong female lead. Get a mug of coffee or glass of wine, find a cozy reading space, and you'll have a great time with this novella!
December 25, 2025
Usually I am not a into the fantasy romance genre, however I did really enjoy this whole series!
Short easy to read novellas with gripping story lines.
And of course a great enemy to lovers romance.
Looking forward to see what else Rachel Song writes.
Short easy to read novellas with gripping story lines.
And of course a great enemy to lovers romance.
Looking forward to see what else Rachel Song writes.
June 17, 2024
I started this as a quick read right before bed, and I feel like the storyline had more potential if the book was longer because I felt like the ending was kind of rushed. I wanted to see the MMC and FMC’s relationship flourish more.They encountered each other often on missions and always bantered back-and-forth, but they never kissed hugged or done anything romantic and they just both came to the conclusion that they loved each other and got married? it just really didn’t add up. I also would’ve loved to see more into why the other countries illegitimate son was trying to go against his dad. It definitely had a lot of potential if the book was longer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2024
Rendra and Medira are two neighboring countries barely at peace. Each nation is represented by a talented and daring spy, tasked with keeping tabs on each other so that no one kingdom can get the upper hand.
Cassandra’s life in protecting her kingdom began when she was young. When she first met her nemesis Arphaxad in her complicated and deadly line of work, she hated him. But, over the years and several close encounters with him, that hatred has transformed into respect, then admiration, and then, something more.
But she’s a long way from admitting this to herself when the two are thrown together to save the futures of both their kingdoms—and the world beyond. A quiet, careful, and powerful magic has been abused, awakening something terrifying and deadly.
I loved the themes of family loyalty, the hope and potential for peace between two nations, and the forbidden love that takes root. This story had everything I look for in fantasy. It is an action-packed quick read—perfect for a quiet weekend. I can’t wait to see what more the series brings!
[This is an honest review left in exchange for an ARC copy of the book]
Cassandra’s life in protecting her kingdom began when she was young. When she first met her nemesis Arphaxad in her complicated and deadly line of work, she hated him. But, over the years and several close encounters with him, that hatred has transformed into respect, then admiration, and then, something more.
But she’s a long way from admitting this to herself when the two are thrown together to save the futures of both their kingdoms—and the world beyond. A quiet, careful, and powerful magic has been abused, awakening something terrifying and deadly.
I loved the themes of family loyalty, the hope and potential for peace between two nations, and the forbidden love that takes root. This story had everything I look for in fantasy. It is an action-packed quick read—perfect for a quiet weekend. I can’t wait to see what more the series brings!
[This is an honest review left in exchange for an ARC copy of the book]
June 1, 2024
This story follows the adventure (maybe misadventure) of Cassandra, the Queen's shadow (head of intelligence, a spy basically) as she is forced to team up with her greatest enemy/rival, Arphaxad, in order to prevent a world-ending catastrophe. Along this journey, through capture, magical shenanigans, and a series of political maneuvers, they just so happen to fall in love. You may yell "hurry up and kiss!" at the book a few times over the course of reading it, but the pay off is worth the wait.
Song paints scenes with such clarity, you find yourself standing in the middle of every scene and her humorous, snappy dialouge and realistic characterizations draw you into the story effortlessly. Cassandra's adventure is as exciting as it is mysterious, which is to say, very. The fantasy and magical elements of the story are well-written, thrilling, and entirely unique. I couldn't put the book down and wasn't bored for a second. If you favor gripping tales filled with wit, flirtation, and policial intrigue, this book is for you. I can't wait for the sequel!
Disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Song paints scenes with such clarity, you find yourself standing in the middle of every scene and her humorous, snappy dialouge and realistic characterizations draw you into the story effortlessly. Cassandra's adventure is as exciting as it is mysterious, which is to say, very. The fantasy and magical elements of the story are well-written, thrilling, and entirely unique. I couldn't put the book down and wasn't bored for a second. If you favor gripping tales filled with wit, flirtation, and policial intrigue, this book is for you. I can't wait for the sequel!
Disclosure: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2024
The Queen’s Shadow by Rachel Song is a short but very good enemies to lovers story. Two warriors of different camps are finding it sort of fun to keep the other one on high alert and at the same time they have feelings which they are ignoring.
I loved this book, the banter and play between Cass and Arphax is a joy to read. Both are great characters. At some point they have to work together to uncover secrets and that made for great reading with twist and turns. They are so right for each other and have a great chemistry. Cass is more of a firebrand, while Arphax is patient while he is also a know-it-all. The writing style is flowing and fast paced.
This novella is just wonderful, it has two likable characters, an engaging writing style with a great plot. I can’t wait to read more books by this author.
I loved this book, the banter and play between Cass and Arphax is a joy to read. Both are great characters. At some point they have to work together to uncover secrets and that made for great reading with twist and turns. They are so right for each other and have a great chemistry. Cass is more of a firebrand, while Arphax is patient while he is also a know-it-all. The writing style is flowing and fast paced.
This novella is just wonderful, it has two likable characters, an engaging writing style with a great plot. I can’t wait to read more books by this author.
August 12, 2024
I have no idea how I stumbled across this book (novella? They’ve dubbed it a novella and it’s certainly short enough), but I have no regrets.
Pros
• Story is well written
• Characters are clear
• I like the plot
• Cute and entertaining
Cons
• It needed to be longer.
Now, I have no other cons due to the length. But I will give my reasons as to why I want this to be longer:
• I really want more world building.
• I think there’s even more potential depth to unlock in these characters.
• The plot is already good, I think with extra length we could delve even further into the events.
• Additional backstory (lends to character depth. I mean, c’mon, these two have been in a battle of skill for a while, give me those scene nuggets please!).
• The progression of some feelings were really snappy and quick.
Overall, I personally feel this story (and potentially the author) has more to give. I can only hope that they flesh out this already great story and perhaps relaunch it.
Pros
• Story is well written
• Characters are clear
• I like the plot
• Cute and entertaining
Cons
• It needed to be longer.
Now, I have no other cons due to the length. But I will give my reasons as to why I want this to be longer:
• I really want more world building.
• I think there’s even more potential depth to unlock in these characters.
• The plot is already good, I think with extra length we could delve even further into the events.
• Additional backstory (lends to character depth. I mean, c’mon, these two have been in a battle of skill for a while, give me those scene nuggets please!).
• The progression of some feelings were really snappy and quick.
Overall, I personally feel this story (and potentially the author) has more to give. I can only hope that they flesh out this already great story and perhaps relaunch it.
September 23, 2024
I devour any enemies-to-lovers books, and this one had incredible potential! The foundation was definitely there, great bones. However, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me. With a bit more development, it could have easily been a 4 star read.
My main issue was that while the enemies dynamic and banter were fantastic, the story suddenly jumped from that straight into them becoming lovers and getting married, skipping over the "lovers" phase entirely. All that tension and build-up led to a rather anticlimactic conclusion.
My main issue was that while the enemies dynamic and banter were fantastic, the story suddenly jumped from that straight into them becoming lovers and getting married, skipping over the "lovers" phase entirely. All that tension and build-up led to a rather anticlimactic conclusion.
June 1, 2024
Witty, intriguing, well-matched adversaries with spark and a great deal of respect for each other: I fell in love with Cassandra and Arphaxad immediately! The Queen's Shadow offers a tantalizing first glimpse into a world with a unique magic system and complex political machinations. While the story is complete in itself, it definitely left me looking forward to returning to this world in the next novella!
A clean romance with lots of chemistry.
A clean romance with lots of chemistry.
June 2, 2024
Cassandra is definitely the type of female lead you can relate too as she navigates the adventure (. Misadventures) she is thrown into , as she teams up with her arch enemy to prevent an absolute catastrophe of epic proportions.
This story was an absolute gem to read and I would definitely reread in the future 🖤 if you're looking for an enemies to lovers story that touches base with what you love in the trope this is definitely it and it's a quick read as well
This story was an absolute gem to read and I would definitely reread in the future 🖤 if you're looking for an enemies to lovers story that touches base with what you love in the trope this is definitely it and it's a quick read as well
June 10, 2024
The Queen's Shadow was a very easy and fun read! I fell in love with Cassandra and Arphaxad immediately and rooted for them from the beginning of the story. Rachel painted the characters in a way that helped me relate to the FMC and immerse myself into their world. I enjoyed every interaction and banter between the two and loved coming along with them on their adventure together. If you're looking for a quick, action-packed fantasy romance, this novella is perfect!
June 13, 2024
Rating 5 Stars
Read Time 1 hour 3 minutes.
What a great little novella! I enjoyed reading the story of Cass and Phax.. enemies in the making... both on different sides, and yet the attraction between them is clear for all to see... well, except them, of course...
I'd love to see more stories of how they work together after the book ends...
Couldn't put the book down!
Sorry I read book last month but I forget to post review -.-
Read Time 1 hour 3 minutes.
What a great little novella! I enjoyed reading the story of Cass and Phax.. enemies in the making... both on different sides, and yet the attraction between them is clear for all to see... well, except them, of course...
I'd love to see more stories of how they work together after the book ends...
Couldn't put the book down!
Sorry I read book last month but I forget to post review -.-
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
What a fun novella! I really enjoyed the world and am so happy there are more books in the series. The pacing was great and I never felt like things were rushed. It can be hard to have good character development in a novella but I thought Rachel did an amazing job with Cassandra and Arphaxad. Their HEA was so cute and I hope we get to see snippets of them in future books!
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy to review.
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy to review.
June 2, 2024
Captivating and electric!
This was so easy to read and so fun! It was a clean and sweet read with incredible chemistry, fun worldbuilding and magic systems, and it flowed well. I enjoyed every minute of it and plan to re-read it again sometime soon! I look forward to the next one being released!! I highly recommend this book and plan on telling my friends about it.
This was so easy to read and so fun! It was a clean and sweet read with incredible chemistry, fun worldbuilding and magic systems, and it flowed well. I enjoyed every minute of it and plan to re-read it again sometime soon! I look forward to the next one being released!! I highly recommend this book and plan on telling my friends about it.
June 7, 2024
very very very short
i know its a novella but wow it was very short
i liked the main characters but i felt like the enemies to lovers path was not well developed
it just want enemies and then boom lovers
i know its a novella but wow it was very short
i liked the main characters but i felt like the enemies to lovers path was not well developed
it just want enemies and then boom lovers
Read
June 7, 2024It falls repeatedly into pretty much every pitfall of the genre. Would have been better off in YA (more forgiving in depth/generic plot/characters/angst)
As is, it wreaks new writer- and even though it's short it was hard to get to the end.
KindleUnlimited. Relieved to return it
As is, it wreaks new writer- and even though it's short it was hard to get to the end.
KindleUnlimited. Relieved to return it
July 8, 2024
Cute
I am not normally one to enjoy a novella, but this one had so much depth in so few pages. I am shocked and in awe of the author’s ability to convey a deep history between Cass and Phax without much detail. It was brilliant.
I am not normally one to enjoy a novella, but this one had so much depth in so few pages. I am shocked and in awe of the author’s ability to convey a deep history between Cass and Phax without much detail. It was brilliant.
September 14, 2024
Based on this being a novella, it was a good read to help get out of a slump. But these character names are so annoying. Aphaxad?! That is a seriously unsexy name that sounds like the name for a bug.
December 11, 2024
3.75
Pleasantly surprised by how much was packed in here, it was over before I felt like I started. Enemies to lovers, building tension, HEA, adventure packed for sure. Not spicy at all, could def have been more but overall I enjoyed it
Pleasantly surprised by how much was packed in here, it was over before I felt like I started. Enemies to lovers, building tension, HEA, adventure packed for sure. Not spicy at all, could def have been more but overall I enjoyed it
February 17, 2025
For what this is, it’s really good! There are lots of little plot twists and political intrigue. I liked this novella way more than I thought I would. The editing needs work and I kind of wish it were longer, but I’m ready to read the rest of these!
July 17, 2024
Definitely YA, not for me
July 30, 2024
Cute lil quick read. I was honestly quite impressed at how a world & romance was built so well in such a short book! Very impressive & fun!
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September 30, 2024no rating
November 20, 2024
A fun little book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews