Two Thousand Shadows

Kings of Chaos #4

by Jocelynn Drake

That cat is a liar!

The “stray cat” Junjie has been feeding and cuddling for months is actually an extremely rare cat shifter.

Of course, Leo would have preferred to continue their arrangement of Junjie feeding him choice bits of fish and rubbing his belly, but he needs Junjie’s help and that means revealing his secret.

An orphaned kitten needs a home after the fae killed his parents, and Leo is the most irresponsible, feckless, lazy creature in existence.

In short, he’s a terrible choice for raising a two-year-old cat shifter.

No. The WORST choice.

Yet, even after the little boy is settled with Junjie and the rest of the Zhang clan, Leo can’t walk away.

There’s just something about that sweet, bashful vampire with the too-soft heart and sexy eyes. And that kid is stealing chunks of his heart, too.

The war with the fae is about to tear the world apart and an old dark shadow has fallen over the Zhang clan, threatening to destroy them all.

Leo must stay to protect his new family. Even if it means giving up all his secrets to the vampire who is steadily stealing away his heart.


Two Thousand Shadows is the fourth novel in the Kings of Chaos series. This book contains a gentle, shy vampire who will stop at nothing to protect those he loves, a shifter with a secret, a nosy family who wants all the spilled tea, other non-human surprises, snark, angst, magic, found family, brotherly bickering, chaos, cuddles, secrets, and an endless love.

Genres: M M Romance, Vampires, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Shapeshifters, Romance

368 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 13, 2024

About the author

New York Times Bestselling author Jocelynn Drake loves a good story, whether she is reading it or writing one of her own. Over the years, her stories have allowed her to explore space, talk to dragons, dodge bullets with assassins, hang with vampires, and fall in love again and again.

This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.

When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.

She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.

Reviews

[trice (exams ia) · Rating 4 out of 5]

my chi vamp babies!!! so sorry i'm late i swear i put the release date in my calendar 😩🙏

this book was surprisingly good?? admittedly i was bored in the first part bc nothing really happened. the true turning point was the breakfast run scene - nothing gets me more than a good old friendship bonding!! 😌

i love leo sm. there are a lot of snarky characters in this universe (like moon) but i think the author delivered leo's character the best - he's snarky and sarcastic, the flirting adds a nice touch, and the conflict about mating gives his character more depth & development than most others, even if that conflict was resolved really fast...

oh, and erik!! bonus points for super adorable baby cat shifters 👶🐈

what i didn't love: junjie - specifically, he's over 2 millenia old and can't even hold his temper in check when his mom is insulted? 🙄 also, the instalove. it happens in every book, so i expected it, but that doesn't mean i like it 🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️

i was a bit surprised about how the action plot developed since its not the end of the series yet, and moon's necromancy just...happened, ig

side note: the author used the phrase 'kau cim', which is the cantonese pronunciation - 'qiu qian' is the mandarin pinyin, but idk if it's on purpose, bc i've never seen the vamps speak canto b4?

[Cadiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

More vampy goodness from Jocelynn

Back with the Zhang clan and this time it's JunJun and his cat shifter Leo.

Lots of action, a bit more slow-burny than some of the others and a whole load of secrets, plus a cute toddler kitten shifter make this another great read.

There's lots of resolution in this book took, which surprised me as I thought we'd get that in the last book. Apparently that ones going to be more of the millennia long relationship between Xiao Dan and Huli though.

I'm looking forward to reading that one and it was fitting that JunJun was the vampire responsible for ending the threat from their old master in this book.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not my fav, but I liked Junjie and Leos story. I flew through the pages and aw... with reluctant mates you always can get me 🥰
But Jocelynn the end? The epilogue?!?!?! It's sooo nasty. How am I supposed to wait until February?!?! 😭

Nicht mein Fav, aber ich habe Junjie und Leos Geschichte gemocht. Ich bin durch die Seiten geflogen und awww...mit reluctant mates bekommt man mich eigentlich immer 🥰
Aber Jocelynn das Ende? Der Epilog?!?!?! Der ist soo fies. Wie soll ich denn bis Februar warten?!?! 😭

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think Leo just became my favourite shifter! The options he can choose from 🤯 Very fun surprise!

The battle with the Fae finally came to an end and it was a really engaging and entertaining fight scene.

I really enjoyed Junjie and Leo together but I'm so curious for Huli and Xiao Dan's story now!

[Dan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a delight, completely and absolutely. Junjie is really sweet, which complements Leo's wilder, more untamed nature. I love how they complement each other and how they grow together. And how Erik slots into the clan perfectly.
And the development with the fae and Jian Chong was a delight. But we have a cliffhanger and the next book cannot come soon enough

Edit, reread on audio. I loved it so much, once again. I really like this book and am excited to reread the last one

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this series!!!!!

[Sarita Chapdelaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Thousand Shadows is an amazing addition to the Kings of Chaos series and I was fully engaged from the first page to the last. It is beautifully written, fast paced, full of suspense and action, has incredible characters and an intriguing ending. I love Leo and Junjie as a couple and their journey together is sweet, funny and intense. They have a few issues to deal with but they are exactly what the other needs and over time they will discover how perfect they are for each other. The way the Zhang clan immediately took in the orphaned shifter, Erik, is one of my favorite parts of this book as well as how they integrated a very reluctant Leo into their group. The coming war with the fae and dealing with the clans old enemy is everyone's main focus and they have to be ready. With unexpected allies and help from the local vampire clan they will have to fight for their lives. I love the secondary characters, it is great to see how well all of the couples from the previous books are doing and I cannot wait for the next installment in this wonderful and exciting series.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[Demian Grimm · Rating 4 out of 5]

As the fourth book in Jocelynn Drake’s Kings of Chaos series, Two Thousand Shadows is a fun and engaging addition to the series. Since it picks up on ongoing storylines, I would strongly recommend reading the books in order to get the full experience.

Junjie is sweet and steady, yet a haunted seer and warrior of the Zhang clan. Leo, on the other hand, is a sarcastic, snarky cat shifter who starts off as a playful trickster with no intention of sticking around. His transition from a reluctant outsider to someone deeply connected to Junjie and the Zhang clan is beautifully handled. Leo’s flirty charm and moments of vulnerability make him a fun and relatable character, while Junjie’s kind and steady nature is the perfect match for Leo’s wilder spirit. Their relationship feels natural. It is playful, sweet, and tender at just the right moments.
I also loved the way the clan takes in Erik, the orphaned cat shifter. This adds even more warmth to the story and really emphasises the theme of found family of the whole series.

The looming threat of Jiang Chong and the fae army keeps the stakes high, and the action scenes are packed with clever twists and tense moments. And although some conflicts resolve a bit quickly, the final showdown is intense.

While I would say that Two Thousand Shadows is a good addition to the series, it didn’t quite capture me as first and second books did. That said, that doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Two Thousand Shadows is fast-paced, emotional, full of great characters and lovely world-building, which makes it a good continuation of the series. The story has a little bit of everything from suspense and humour to action, and a romance...and there is a cliffhanger at the end, that will definitely leave you eager for the next book.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.

[Tracy Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh My… Have to go with 4.5 Stars because of dang epilogue cliffhanger… Book was awesome all the same! I was hooked! It kept me on my toes with suspense, action, a slow burn romance, steam, sweetness, an adorable toddler, and the love of family and friends. So good! I’m excited for the next book 📕 n February, sad too because it’s the last book in the series, I’ll miss those men! But there’s always rereading though right ;)

[P Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Junjie and Leo’s story was absolutely amazing. This was an action packed instalment, with plenty of heat and tension to keep things interesting.

Hopefully, it won’t be a long wait before the next book. I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next one, judging by how this one ended, it’s gonna be awesome.

*I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this one a few days ago and struggled a bit with the review.

Don't get me wrong, I really liked it. Leo and Junjie are sweet together, Erik is a great addition, and of course, the family and the Variks are a highlight.

I was really invested and couldn't put it down . Nevertheless, I am not sure what to say 🤔
But I loved it and it is a necessary book ... now I want the last one

[Readingbks · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful addition to this incredible series! Lots of angst, action and amazing, engaging characters with a wonderful story thrown in. I loved it and I can't wait for the last book in this series! I read an advanced copy of this book and this is my unbiased review!

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read!

[Emily Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been eager to read about Junjie's mysterious stray cat since the last Kings of Chaos book ended, and I was blown away by the reveals, action sequences, and emotional moments that took place throughout their story. This book may have started out with Leo as an unattached, trickster cat shifter looking for a way to con the Zhangs into adopting an adorable little boy, but he demonstrated tremendous character growth as he got to know and love Junjie and the rest of his clan.

I really enjoyed all of the tender family bonding that Junjie got to share with Erik at the start of this book--it was a welcome relief from the stress of watching the Zhangs try to prepare for the combined threat of Jiang Chong and the fae army. The more time Leo spent slinking around the Zhang clan, the more he realized that having attachments to others wasn't so bad after all. It was too cute to see him try to play off his true feelings and act like he wasn't warming up to the idea of being a part of something bigger than himself, but the way he worried after Junjie and fussed over him after coming back late from a mission made it clear how much he truly cared. I absolutely loved the way Junjie and Leo's romance unfolded--the pacing was just right, Leo's playful seduction kept things light and fun in an otherwise tense storyline, and both men were so sweet with each other during their private moments. It was easy for me to fall in love with their relationship, and the more they let down their guards with each other the more certain I was that they were the real deal. I haven't even talked about how insanely good their chemistry was--the two of them didn't get many moments of calm to explore each other but they made every second count.

The main thing hanging over Junjie, Leo, and the entire Zhang clan's heads was the ever-present danger that Trin, Jiang Chong, and the fae presented to their world. Most of this book's storyline was spent building up to the final confrontation of all three parties, and I got deeply invested in the outcome of every scouting mission, strategy session, and skirmish. The Zhangs connected with some new allies in this book, reinforced their partnership with the Variks, and put all of their powers to the test in an effort to get a leg up on their enemies. I particularly enjoyed learning about Leo's cat shifter abilities and the unique advantages they gave him, and every time I thought I'd uncovered all his secrets he surprised me with one more. Jiang Chong was the most insidious of the enemies they were up against, and he kept the Zhangs constantly on their toes even before they were able to set their plans in motion for the final battle. At one point I was sure that I'd reached the climax of this book and that Junjie would have to wait for the next book to get justice for all the suffering Jiang Chong had inflicted (Jocelynn you know exactly which scene I'm referring to), but the Zhangs regrouped, rallied their allies, and continued their pursuit until every last enemy had been vanquished. My head is still reeling from everything that happened in that final battle--surprise power-ups, epic takedowns, and the Zhangs using every bit of their training and craftiness to best their enemies--but it's such a relief to know that their family is finally safe. Now all that's left is to figure out what the heck is going on with Xiao Dan and Huli, and I should have known that Jocelynn Drake wouldn't let us off the hook and give them a conflict-free romance. That last sentence cliffhanger is going to haunt me until February, but I have no doubt that the wait will be worth it.

**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

mesmerizing storytelling

Rating: 5🌈

We’re at the penultimate book in Jocelynn Drake’s fantastic epic paranormal series of ancient Chinese vampires, terrifying Fae dynastic plots, realm invasions, dragons, fated mates , witches and paranormal beings of all sorts of magical mythology.

What a mesmerizing wild explosive fantasy romantic ride this series is. And with Two Thousand Shadows we get both answers to a series long puzzle and an agonizing cliffhanger to angst over until the finale is released.

Two Thousand Shadows has a lot of storylines and elements to it, particularly with Drake having to concentrate on pulling together the entire series dramatic plots and characters for huge battles and storyline climaxes that will resolve the majority of the series main crucial issues.

Does Drake pull it off? Absolutely!

With the addition of new characters, cat shifters with magical abilities that are slowly revealed throughout the narrative, and a new couple who are (already formed in the reader’s imagination) a more substantial force in both personalities and character growth.

Junjie, who’s a seer and warrior, has his own painful past revisited here through memories and conversations with his clan. The cat shifter is revealed to be Leo, the stray cat Junjie has been feeding a surprise that came at the end of the previous story.

Leo’s character and shifter background is rolled out as Leo decides what he wants to do with the clan and his affinity for Junjie. It’s interesting how Drake again is able to write Leo feelings and thoughts as a paranormal character with a different nature than a human being. Leo’s story feels very different from anything else that has come from before, that includes the dragon, who also acts as it should.

What or who is delightfully written is an orphan cat shifter who acts as a bridge between Leo and the clan, especially Junjie, pulling Leo into the found family in a relatable manner.

When it comes to the all important details and climatic moments, Drake has the power of the many magical beings and surprisingly great twists to make them so satisfying. Did I want more? Sure. But this is so complicated, so many elements and elaborate layers of storylines leading up the result that I probably wouldn’t be happy unless there was a couple more books.

These are fabulous characters and it’s hard to believe that with all their potential for growth and more importantly additional content, this is leading up to the end. Hopefully with a break, Drake will think about new stories.

There’s another story coming because as I said this ends on a cliffhanger. A unexpected twist.

Until that book drops, grab up this fantastic series. Read them in the order they were written and enjoy the journey into an incredible universe and amazing characters.


Love the covers, the concept. Fantastic.

The Kings of Chaos :
- [x] Two Thousand Dreams #1
- [x] Two Thousand Tears #2
- [x] Two Thousand Blades #3
- [x] Two Thousand Shadows #4
- [ ] Two Thousand Promises #5 - Feb 21,2025 - finale I think.

[Mirjam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an intriguing read with a unique premise, blending elements of mystery, urban fantasy, and character-driven storytelling. The novel's strengths lie in its richly detailed settings and creates a compelling atmosphere that keeps the reader invested.







However, the pacing occasionally falters, with some sections dragging while others rushed past key moments.The narrative sometimes gets bogged down in exposition, leaving little room for the natural evolution of relationships or deeper emotional engagement. Additionally, certain plot points felt predictable, which lessened the tension in crucial moments.


Overall, Two Thousand Shadows is an enjoyable read for fans of the genre, but it may not leave a lasting impression.
While it might not fully satisfy those seeking a perfectly polished tale, it certainly offers enough substance and originality to keep it's readers turning the pages.





Part of the Kings of Chaos Series, which is a spin-off from the Lords of Discord Series and linked to the Princes of Mayhem Series.

[ivanareadsalot · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

Awww this was some soft danmei-esque romance, with a bit of heat, a massive cast of endearing characters and an Ott villain we love to hate. JD's narrative was light and filled with affection and sentimental sweetness, and Leo and Junjie's love story really benefitted from this style of storytelling.

I loved that this installment was crammed to the gills with the Zhang Clan and their mates! And with the Variks and witches making a few cameos, this story at times just felt like the grandest family meeting/get together/need-your-advice-cuz moments that showed just how much the love and support between the clans (discord-chaos-mayhem series) had developed over time. And that unity and closeness made me smile quite a bit through this book.

i gasped a few times when the violence and the emotions got intense, and as lovely as the romance between Leo and Junjie was, the whole circus of plot and cast really added a lot of dynamic energy to this installment which i really appreciated. because overall i really enjoyed that level of drama and excitement, as it highlighted the gentle-yet-spicy relationship like a beacon in the midst of the plotty storms. and i found myself gravitating to Leo and Junjie's energy because of how strangely calming i thought they were.

There's just something comforting about reading Jocelynn Drake, and during this very wild holiday I really enjoyed -and needed- Two Thousand Shadows! and my gawd way to grip a heart at the end there JD because i'm srsly freaking out with that ending! I want Huli and Xiao Dan's story soooo bad right NOW! So lots to look forward to in Two Thousand Promises (Kings of Chaos Book 5) and I absolutely can't wait to see how their love story will close out this unique and entertaining series! Fingers crossed it'll be a stunner!

[Siobhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two Thousand Shadows is the fourth book in Jocelynn Drake’s Kings of Chaos series, and it is a story that needs to be read after the prior books in the series. There are ongoing storylines throughout the series, and this book brings some of the elements to a close. Thus, to get the full impact, you need to be aware of what has happened in the prior books.

I will be honest and say I had somewhat mixed feelings going into this book. The first two books in the Kings of Chaos series hooked me hard, yet the third book felt a bit too much like a filler book to me. This disappointed me because dragon books are usually my favourite, which left me somewhat nervous about what this fourth book would give. While I enjoyed this more than the third, it was not quite to the level of the first two books. In many ways, this was a three-point-five-star rating that I rounded up. I had fun with it, yet it still did not hit me quite the way I had expected. I think this is because the insta-love was even heavier in this one (which is saying something with this series), and it made it difficult for me to buy into the story due to just how quickly everything kept changing between the characters. Add in the fact that the events came together far too quickly for my liking toward the end of this book, and it all felt a little too easy. Yes, I enjoyed it. Yes, I devoured it in no time because I was eager to see how everything came together. However, it was missing that extra little bit to make it shine in the way the first two books did.

All in all, this is well worth the read if you have enjoyed the series thus far. I am certainly eager to see how the next book brings everything together. (I am also hoping that the female characters will get their story told at some point, yet a part of me fears they will forever remain in the background. Here is to crossed fingers, though!)

[E. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

“Two Thousand Shadows” by Jocelynn Drake is Book 4 in the ‘Kings of Chaos’ series and features the “cat”, Leo, that vampire Junjie has been caring for over the past few months. The addition to the household of a very young cat shifter changes the relationship between Leo and Junjie, and may require a price higher than Leo is ready to pay, especially since Junjie is already embroiled in a world-changing conflict.

This adult paranormal romance provides an intriguing twist on the premise of vampires and shifters and their powers, even as it features multiple elements of Chinese culture, plus intrigue that may result in the end of the world as they know it. I was a bit lost because I haven’t read the previous stories in the series, and the sprinkling of Chinese words into the story was a fun twist even though it slowed my reading a bit. I loved watching the semi-feral Leo establish a connection both because of his attraction to Junjie and his sense of obligation to the new addition to the household. My confusion from trying to understand the two different levels of conflict made it difficult for me to completely appreciate this story, and I am one of those who isn’t patient with cliffhangers, so that also frustrated me. It is also very helpful that there is not only a contribution from Leo, but also a description of the clans and coven plus biographies of the main characters, which would have been more appreciated at the beginning so that I could look up the alternate names when I got lost. I think this series will be best appreciated by getting a grounding in this universe, and, fortuitously, the first book in the series is available for free at the time of writing this review, so I look forward to reading that one.

A copy of this title was provided for review

[Ami · Rating 4 out of 5]

I need to get this through because XIAO DAN AND HULI'S BOOK IS NOT UNTIL FEBRUARY 2025!!!

But this book still gives the good stuffs. All of the problems that the brothers of Sword of the Heavenly Garden Sect are facing - from the fae (Rei finally killed his half brother) and their evil teacher (Junjie also killed him with Leo's help) are no longer. I think the climax of Junjie facing Jiang Chong is a bit "anti-climactic" though - it feels like it ends really quick.

Junjie's relationship with cat shifter Leo St. George is sweet!! Probably because there's also a little "kitten" involved. Not real kitten (as of now) - it's a little boy whom Leo found and gave to the brothers because cat shifters are solitary by nature and Leo didn't think that he would be the best choice to take care of an orphan. I love that each of the brothers' relationships feel different.

Junjie's a little bit tentative with Leo at first - probably because he doesn't know that Leo is NOT a real house-cat at first. And Leo doesn't really do relationship before - solitary cat shifter, remember? It makes the progress of the relationship feels not as instant as Chen/Moon or explosive as Xiang/Kai (despite the timeline is only for several weeks).

I adored Erik, the boy too! I feel that this is going to be a GREAT family.

The epilogue, though? Gah, evil author!! It have to wait for two more months!! 😭​

[Jeanette Waters · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Kings of Chaos series is almost complete, one more book to go. A lot of loose ends were tied up and enemies defeated. At Shadows' start the tension and angst while waiting for Jiang Chong to make his next move has the whole clan on edge. Finding out that the cat Junjie was feeding and loving on was actually a cat shifter didn't help. It's the worst time to become custodian of a cat shifter toddler and falling in love. But when Leo, Junjie's former cat, leads the clan to Erik, they all fall for the child. With Junjie falling the hardest. And though both MCs try resisting the pull, Junjie and Leo fall for each other.
Junjie is a marshmallow for anyone in need of protection. Leo is a snarky loner, finding a home with the Zhangs. And the clan/ family was as nosy and loving as ever. Small wonder why Xiao Dan kept shaking his head.
The dynamic between Junjie and Leo was full of humor and snark. With a generous side of smexy sizzle. But it was the tender times with Erik that really had me loving the pair. Erik was absolutely adorable. He had alllll the vamps wrapped around his tiny fingers.
A very enjoyable read. Lots of heightened tension and nail biting action.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Junjie is quite surprised to find out the stray cat he has been feeding and cuddling is actually a rare cat shifter. Leo reveals himself because he needs Junjie’s help. There is a small orphaned kitten/boy that needs a home. The only problem is that even after Junjie takes the young boy/kitten, Leo cannot stop returning. Now with the battle heating up on two fronts, Leo also wants to help protect Junjie as well as the rest of the clan.

As a rare cat shifter, Leo had many secrets. Some of them he will need to reveal to help little Eric as well as the clan in their coming battle. These vampires and their growing family of others are so loving and protective of each other. They truly define the meaning of family. Junjie and Leo were a pleasure to watch. It seemed many others knew what they meant to each other before they did. The battle and the lead up to it provided some excellent reading. The ending did leave us on a bit of a cliff hanger. But no problem, the other book will be here soon. Jocelynn Drake is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. She can be yours as well. Start with this series- book one is where to begin.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exciting fourth book in the series

The Zhang clan faces a two fronted enemy needing to deal with Trin and the fae army as well as their old master Jiang Chong. They cannot be free until both those battles are fought and won. This is what this book focuses on. It is also the love story between Juinje and the cat shifter Leo who Juinje thinks is just stray cat he’s been feeding and giving belly rubs. Imagine his surprise and anger when he finds out he’s been deceived. And why does he find out? Because Leo needs the Zhang clan to take in a toddler who is a kitten/cat shifter whose parents have been killed by the fae. He has to reveal himself in order to explain this.

So the book is the story of the romance trajectory between Juinje and Leo as well as the battle planning and run ins with their enemies culminating in the final battle. The writing is crisp and the action is exciting. The story arc moves well with lots of humor and lots of surprises. There’s a bit of emotional rollercoaster as well as moments of breath taking suspense. In other words, a little bit of everything that makes an entertaining and compelling book. I look forward to the last book, especially after the last few sentences of this one.

[Book Hoarder · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the once-every-hundred-years portal between the human world and the Fae opened, the King and Queen of the Fae came on a rampage to take over the human world using magic and hundreds of elves. With their clan members safely in their protected estate, and the addition of several of the clan’s fated mates, the Chinese vampires were all shocked when a small orange housecat that had shown up periodically turned out to be a rare cat shifter. A cat shifter would never show themselves to other but Leo needs the help of the clan, especially Junjie. Knowing he could never take care of a child, he leads them to a deserted farmhouse and an abandoned cat shifter toddler. The clan takes in the child with love and affection and Leo cannot stay away from Erik (the toddler) or Junjie who he grows feelings for. And once he learns of the deadly peril they are in from their maker, Jiang Chong, he commits to helping them.
Shadows is the fourth book in the Kings of Chaos series. Written in Drake's endearing style the story is full of love, found family, lots of secrets, surprises, chaos, and all the snark you are accustomed to with a Jocelyn Drake release

[Manon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is quite a road with twists and turns towards the defeat the fae with a kitty or two thrown in. It is not my favourite of the series as I felt the story is split too much into two different parts and not a lot is happening at first.

The romance between Leo and Junjie is definitely here the second story. Leo is quite the loner, the typical image of the lazy cat who comes and goes as he pleases with no responsiblity, definitely a world apart from the tight-knitted clan of the Zhang.

I like how Leo is torn between his instincts and what he thinks is right and the growing feelings towards Jinjie and also Eric.
Jinjie also has to learn a bit, his horror about the reality of his beloved cat being a shifter and then the responsibility of Eric in the middle of trying to figure out how to defeat the fae. For being 2000 years old, he comes over quite immature like a toddler throwing a toy out of the pram.

There are as usual lots of humour between the vampire-mates, breakfast anyone? and I love the addition of the Variks.

Lots of development how to defeat the fae, but that would mean spoilers and the book is too good to tell about it.

[Alias11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series, especially when the vamps (and mates) from The Lords of Discord join the Zhang clan in the fight against the Fae. This time we get the 'tail' (sorry for the pun) of Junjie and his companion cat...who turns out to be much more than a cat...SURPRISE...awkward. And the family...I love the banter of these guys, and the gossiping. They can be as bad as old women sometimes, but it's always fun, and you know they love and would give their lives for one another. I won't delve into the plot and risk spoiling any of the twists and surprises, but I will say the battle and conflict scenes are compelling and exciting. The ending gave me a happy feeling... but then there is a final twist that leads us to the next book. (Mean author;) I will be impatiently waiting for the story of Xiao Dan and the trickster fox spirit, Huli.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shifters, vampires, Fae and a kitten

I don’t know why I didn’t clue in when I picked this book up that it was book four in the series, but I must say that I had no trouble figuring things out and following along. I am also definitely going to go back and read the first three books and will be eagerly awaiting the next book in this story. I must admit that especially as I age I have more trouble following more complex stories especially when they have uncommon names (at least uncommon to my English ass! Lol).
Jocelynn Drake upended this feeling for me because she writes so well that even I had no trouble with this long, complex story with a lot of non English names.
And it’s terrific! Such a fun and heartwarming story between Leo and Junjie and kitten shifter Eric. Leo is exactly what I would expect a house cat shifter to be and I laughed so much at his behavior and comments. Now sorry, but I am off to book one!

[Anna Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

Junjie and Leo are perfect for each other. Leo is the cat who has been coming to the Zhang clan's house for months now, staying with Junjie, being taken care by Junjie.

When Junjie learned that Leo is a cat shifter, and that he is a very attractive young man, he started to feel other emotions towards him. And when Leo asked him to take in a young kitten whose parents got killed by the fae, Junjie asked him to come and visit more often so that Junjie can learn more about cat shifters.

These two are attracted to each other but alongside those feelings, they also have to face Jiang Chong, the vampire who made them, and getting rid of the fae once and for all.

A story full of family, snark, and so much love, you should definitely pick up this series and start reading them now. Congratulations Ms. Jocelynn Drake!

[Demetra Roussakis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am loving this series. This is book 4 and they must be read in order for the overlaying arc. This book starts off as book 3 finishes. Leo revealed himself to Junjie that he is actually a cat shifter and not just a cat. There is a reason for this as he needs him to take in a shifter kitten whose parents were killed by the fae. Erik is so sweet and clings to Junjie as they leave the house. This is the start of the story with how Leo cannot fight his feelings for Junjie and wants to stay. I loved how the story plot was concluded. This story contains action, suspense, heat and chemistry between them. I cannot wait for the final book; it is going to be epic. I highly recommend this series. You will not be disappointed.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Zhang give a new meaning to found family. The stray cat Junjie, has been feedding and loving on, turns out to be a rare cat shifter, Leo. He needs Junkie's help with a kitten orphaned by fae who killed his parents. So, Leo, responsibly has Junzie and his Zhang Clan take the kitten in. Hostilities are escalating and the war with the fae and unseen forces are escalating to the point where Leo, feels he may be more help sticking around and helping to defend the Zhang Clan. Leo, is dragging some serious baggage and is not the man he thinks he is. There are a few surprises and twists that keep everyone on their toes and bring Leo closer to our hearts. Fantastic group of characters, great flow nice challenges, well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.