In a world torn between the remnants of ancient magic and the rise of a brutal technological regime, a shadowy figure emerges from the depths of legend. Shadow Saviour, a being neither fully human nor entirely spirit, is bound by a singular to protect Princess Charlotte, the last hope of a dying kingdom.
As their world teeters on the brink of annihilation, Shadow must decide between fulfilling his duty and protecting the one he’s sworn to save. But with time running out, will their combined strength be enough to shatter Nero's plans, or will they both fall into the abyss?
Daniel Georgiev, also known as Blentkills, is a fantasy author who likes his stories a little difficult to predict.
His writing moves freely between epic fantasy, dark fantasy, mystery, adventure, and strange little tales that refuse to stay comfortably inside one genre. Whether he is building worlds shaped by magic and ancient powers or telling smaller, more intimate stories, Daniel is drawn to unusual ideas, flawed characters, unexpected twists, and the places where wonder and darkness meet.
He is the author of the Mathsmagica series, beginning with Tapestry of Shadows, as well as Sun Catchers and Mercy in Ruin. Sun Catchers was awarded Gold in Fiction – Dystopia in the Reader’s Favorite International Book Award Contest, recognizing Daniel’s work among an international field of authors and best sellers. His growing body of work also includes shorter stories and experiments born from one simple question: “What if?”
When he isn't writing, Daniel spends his time drawing, exploring new forms of storytelling, and building worlds—usually while finding increasingly creative ways to make his fictional characters' lives more complicated.
Born in Bulgaria and now living in Belgium, Daniel continues to write fantasy in all its forms, one strange idea at a time.
The story is very short. I read several other books from the author and he builds his worlds very methodically, and this one lacks that precision that he usually has. Fair to say, due to the length of it he couldn't focus on that or character development (not judging, just pointing out differences from his other works). Also I must say I'm comparing it to the standards he usually delivers, which are quite high in my opinion, and not to other short novels.
Now, if you like short stories or want to give a taste to a great author, this one is perfect to welcome you to the world of Daniel Georgiev!
Daniel skillfully creates a world that blends sci-fi, fantasy, and futuristic elements. The story is fast-paced and kept me engaged throughout. While there are unanswered questions, they only increase the desire for more.
Shadow has one mission that he remembers - Save Charlotte. But from what?
You will fall in love with this short story, it will have you turning pages faster than you can blink! It will leave you wanting the next one immediately!!
-This book was really short. And sometimes that’s great. But I found the plot line really interesting and felt like it could have been developed to be a short story but of 100 pages rather than 40. Everything felt a bit vague because of how short the book was but in a way, it added to the book’s charm. The mystery of it all made it quite interesting.
-Again, the characters felt a bit vague and like we didn’t really know them. But it kind of fit Shadow’s character. Charlotte did kind of feel like a side character and I do wish that we knew a bit more about both of them. Even if it’s without knowing everything and keeping many things under wraps.
-I really liked the ending. It kept me on my toes because even though the book was tiny, I was curious as to what was going to happen because I knew so little about anything. The ending still surprised me and I felt satisfied with the tiny book.
For a short story this was full of everything you need to enjoy a fantasy tale!
What I loved most was the approach to the character of Shadow. The way he was written was carefully crafted to provide enough intrigue and wonder to keep you wanting to know more.
Charlotte is an integral part of the tale, who has her own secrets which I didn't see coming.
The way the story ends made me wish the story was a little longer which I think is a credit to the tale. My only hope now, is Daniel will write more small tales within this world.
I enjoyed this short story and the fast paced narrative. I did feel as though it would have been better as a longer story, so that there could have been more detail and world building. However, the author did a decent job showing the turmoil going on in shadow between his duty and the conflict that made his job more difficult. The villain, Nero, was a smooth talking, and manipulative, leader who used Shadow’s loyalty for his benefit. Charlotte is the thread that ties the whole story together, and is the catalyst for action on both sides.
If you are looking for a quick and engaging read, this story is the one for us.
I loved this short story. There wasnt one moment i wasnt intrigued into the world Daniel Georgiev created. Although there are questions that remain unanswered, i find myself wanting more.
In addition, all three characters, Charlotte, Shadow and Nero all have characteristics that i really enjoyed. As well as the mysterious nature of all three of them. Love the work! Keep it coming!
I was lucky enough to find the author through his other works and knew I was in for something special. And special it was! Tbh I can only say one thing that came to my mind after finishing it (and having to have a glimpse into his mind a bit): möbius strip!
Shadow Saviour has one mission. Save Charlotte. With magic low and time running out, is his mission successful? This is a quick read that I could have read in one sitting. It was a page turner. I always wanted to see what came next. The story is well written. This was the first I've read from this author and it has made me want to read more.
The story was interesting but I was left confused. I still don’t really understand the world and want to know more about what Shadow actually is and how magic functions.
With that being said I did enjoy the story. I could see it becoming a full book to give some of the details I wanted.
A fun and fast paced short story that immediately draws you in with curiosity, giving just enough to feel like you get the gist of the fantasy world scape without going into pretty much any detail at all. Skillfully small amount of detail and description. Very cool perspective/view point of the narrator.
3.5⭐️ This was such an interesting short story. It was so unique. I really like the way that Georgiev can create a whole world and a plot within less than 50 pages, it shows his talent as an author. I liked the magic system in this book, it was quick to grasp but still complex and interesting. I definitely recommend this short story for anyone interested in fantasy and maybe sci-fi.
I knew it! I felt that I was not going to get all the answers. So disappointed... Just joking! 🤣 The story is great. I loved the intrigue and secrecy stretched through it. The story flew so fast that I didn’t realize that I actually read it (releasing the breath I didn't realize I was holding...😋)
It was too short. I wanted more. This futuristic fantasy world was great and keeps you enthralled through it all.
This is my 2nd read from this author. His writing is beautifully done. The storylines are well thought out. He's definitely an author to keep an eye out for.
I thought this was an interesting story. It was short story but a good read and unique as well. I found myself intrigued by the plot and I was curious to what would happen next kept me turning the pages.
The world is torn between what remains of an ancient magic and a new brutal technological regime. In these torturous times, there rises a figure who stays in the shadows, one who has only been whispered in legends.
The Shadow Saviour. A being who is not human, at least not fully, but they are not fully a spirit either. They have a single mission in their being: they are there to protect Princess Charlotte, she is the final hope, the only one who can save the dying kingdom.
The world is teetering on the edge of annihilation. The shadow has two choices, feeling torn. On one hand, he can fulfill his duty to protect Princess Charlotte, the one that he is sworn to protect and save.
Time though is running out, is their strength combined going to be enough to stop Nero's plan? Or, will they too lose it all and end up falling into the abyss?
I had the opportunity to read Mathmagica, and I really enjoyed it, so when I had the chance to read the follow-up to it, I knew that I had to get my hands on it. And I am not sorry that I took the time to read Shadow Saviour.
The only thing that I think I didn't like about this book is that it was so short. I wish it had been a little bit longer. There were times when I felt like things were a bit rushed and a bit vague. If it has been a bit longer, the plot could have been developed a little bit more as well.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and for the most part, it's great. I felt like the only drawbacks mentioned above kept it from being an amazing book.
I really liked the plot of this book, and I found that it was really interesting . For a short story, the plot and subplots were really well done. And I really rather enjoyed it. The mystery of the Shadow Saviour and his intrigue really was rather interesting.
The characters were really rather enjoyable, and they fit with the Shadow Saviour's character. I found the fit to be really well done, and it just worked. Even the side characters got the chance to work in the light and have their moment to act as though they were a main character. I didn't like that Charlotte felt more like a side character rather than a main character, but that could have been done intentionally. I really do wish we had gotten to know more about Charlotte and the Shadow Saviour a bit more, I think it would have helped us to understand their motivations more.
The ending was my favorite part, honestly. It kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat, which was surprising with how small the book was. And with how little we knew about anyone and what was really happening, I was really curious as to how this book was going to end. And the ending was surprising and yet satisfying at the same time.
I hope that we get more stories in this world and we get to learn more about the other character's we met along the way and the stories that they have to tell. I am sure the world is full of rich and inviting characters who would love to tell their stories.
I can confidently say—it’s one of the most gripping and emotionally charged fantasy reads I’ve picked up this year.
Set in a hauntingly beautiful world caught between crumbling magic and ruthless tech, this book dives deep into themes of sacrifice, identity, and the blurred lines between light and shadow. The titular character, Shadow, is everything I love in a protagonist: mysterious, morally torn, and unexpectedly vulnerable. His bond with Princess Charlotte is powerful, raw, and beautifully slow to unfold—more than just protector and royal, they become each other’s anchor as the world falls apart around them.
The tension builds like a storm, with Nero’s regime closing in and time running out. Every chapter kept me holding my breath, torn between hope and dread. And that ending? Brutal and brilliant.
Shadow Saviour is a masterful blend of high-stakes fantasy, heart-wrenching emotion, and deeply human characters. I’m already desperate for the sequel—and for everyone else to experience this incredible story.
Shadow Saviour is a super short story fantasy story that you can blow through. Shadow isn't human. He's not entirely sure what he is or who he is. All he knows is that he has one mission. And that's to protect Charlotte at all costs. I was getting the vibe that Shadow's connection to Charlotte was more than protector. But with the story being so short, we never really get any clarification on that. The story is gripping and filled with tension. You're sort of at the edge of your seat wondering if Charlotte and Shadow will be strong enough to stop Nero in time. It's well written and very interesting. If you're looking for a quick, little read, this is definitely one to check out.
Amazing short read. We get to experience this expansive world that is full of magic and betrayal. A great glimpse into a fantastical kingdom in the sky. Where they depend on a type of magic that is crucial to their survival. What will happen when the only source of their magic becomes a figure of darkness and deceit? Will the Shadow Saviour be able to save his princess and his world? Find out for yourself in this bitesize short fantasy.
I have mixed feelings. I would rate this more of a 3.5 as I wasn't sure about a 3 or 4 but rounded up to 4.
The plot seemed a bit rushed but still some how enjoyable. It left me with some open questions for the story that I wouldn't mind reading a sequel to this if the author chooses to further add on to this short story.
I didn't love it but I also didn't hate it. I do still recommend reading it and sharing opinions with others.
He has no name. No memories. One thing holds true, his purpose, he must save Charlotte. Daniel always finds a way to keep you intrigued and turning pages as fast as possible. I do wish it was longer as the story was kept vague. It'll absolutely have you wanting to know more as questions go unanswered. This was different from the extensive world building I've witnessed in other works but works as an intro to his writing.
I never read anything this short before, but I loved it. It’s amazing and something you don’t see. Do I wish it was longer? yes, but I actually like that it’s short, and to the point, no dragging on like some books do. I don’t want to spoil it for those who haven’t read it, but there’s magic, and action. I love the ending that Shadow is with Charlotte, and glad that Shadow destroyed Nero.
This was a fun read! I want to know more about Shadow and the worlds around him! The magic system we are introduced to is very intriguing, and the characters we are introduced to create a compelling story that feels like the opening to a vast series. Is there more on the menu?
Daniel has a true talent of writing magical storylines, if you are looking for a taste of what he's books are like, this is a great short story to start with! He truly has a way to captivate you and draw you in from beginning to end.
Such a quick story that leaves you wanting more, in the best way possible. Hopefully Daniel will give us another installment into Shadow and Charlotte's story!
This unfolds and develops so well for such a short story. It was very good! The way Shadow fulfils his role as a guardian is really satisfying and interesting to watch. With the theme of self-discovery being pushed to the background, it still lingers there. I liked it through-and-through!