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Soul Magic #1
Shaedes of Power
How many pieces of your soul can you give away… before you break?
In a faerie hierarchy built upon one’s ability to produce specific, color-driven magic, Opal is an outcast, and on the cusp of giving up on her future at court.
While visiting the human realm, she witnesses a dark magic shadow beast attack a human—a beast which should have been forever imprisoned in the Shadowlands. Upon her return home to the faerie realm, she finds the Shaede Palace in chaos, the vampiric Dark Princes ready to start a war over old wounds and court prejudices, and a revolving door of impossible choices.
Join Opal on her path to self-discovery and a quest to save her realm, all while she navigates a passionate romance with the charming human she manages to save from the shadow beast, and the seductive Dark Prince who captures her and wants to show her a whole new world in the shadows.
It will take everything Opal has to find her way through the darkness, but with the help of her friends and the histories of her people, she might just discover spells that can change the world.
Shaedes of Power is the first in a new Romantasy series written for dark romance lovers who enjoy sexy, complicated characters, epic world-building, and a unique magic system. Fans who enjoyed A Court of Thorns and Roses, The Ever King, and Fourth Wing will not be disappointed!
In a faerie hierarchy built upon one’s ability to produce specific, color-driven magic, Opal is an outcast, and on the cusp of giving up on her future at court.
While visiting the human realm, she witnesses a dark magic shadow beast attack a human—a beast which should have been forever imprisoned in the Shadowlands. Upon her return home to the faerie realm, she finds the Shaede Palace in chaos, the vampiric Dark Princes ready to start a war over old wounds and court prejudices, and a revolving door of impossible choices.
Join Opal on her path to self-discovery and a quest to save her realm, all while she navigates a passionate romance with the charming human she manages to save from the shadow beast, and the seductive Dark Prince who captures her and wants to show her a whole new world in the shadows.
It will take everything Opal has to find her way through the darkness, but with the help of her friends and the histories of her people, she might just discover spells that can change the world.
Shaedes of Power is the first in a new Romantasy series written for dark romance lovers who enjoy sexy, complicated characters, epic world-building, and a unique magic system. Fans who enjoyed A Court of Thorns and Roses, The Ever King, and Fourth Wing will not be disappointed!
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2025
236 people are currently reading
5958 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Grimes
4 books219 followersJenny Grimes writes fantasy romance novels that focus on the blurred lines between worlds, the darkness you’ll find in all of them, and the love that resides there too. She creates her characters and spins her stories from her home in the human realm, where she raises her three little book dragons with her husband, and spends a healthy amount of time reading, travelling, and creating art.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 783 reviews
March 11, 2025
Update: This book releases today book besties! Go get your copy! It's available on KU and the audiobook was narrated by the one and only Laura Horowitz!
This book...it came so close to knocking the Belladonna series off my roman empire spot for the year.
Mid-way thru the book I DMed the author on Instagram to tell them how much I was loving the story. I am the perfect target audience for this book.
I have always been obsessed with Tinkerbell and this story is like the New Adult coming of age Tinkerbell story. The blurb put out on this book explains everything perfectly. No book summary by me would do any more justice to what you need to know.
The only tiny thing I would have liked more is I wish the spice was a tiny smidge spicier. But it didn't take away from anything the way it was.
I will 100% re-read this and am so sad that this is the ARC and I have to wait 6+months for the next book.
This book...it came so close to knocking the Belladonna series off my roman empire spot for the year.
Mid-way thru the book I DMed the author on Instagram to tell them how much I was loving the story. I am the perfect target audience for this book.
I have always been obsessed with Tinkerbell and this story is like the New Adult coming of age Tinkerbell story. The blurb put out on this book explains everything perfectly. No book summary by me would do any more justice to what you need to know.
The only tiny thing I would have liked more is I wish the spice was a tiny smidge spicier. But it didn't take away from anything the way it was.
I will 100% re-read this and am so sad that this is the ARC and I have to wait 6+months for the next book.
January 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. All the characters were awesome, very well written and each character felt unique enough that it was easy to keep every one clear which is something I struggle with usually in fantasy's.
The plot was sooo good! Whenever I wasn't reading I was thinking about the book. I loved the way the world and magic system was written / executed, it was easy to follow and understand.
Its a short book but its absolutely jammed packed with action, fairies, vampires, and a spicy little love triangle 👀.
I ADORED the love interests and absolutely cannot wait to see where the series will go from here! The spice and love triangle was very well done! There were about 4-5 spicy scenes but it didn’t over power the plot which I always appreciate!
Literally so excited to re-read when book 2 comes out!
Huge thank you to Jenny grimes for letting me be apart of your ARC team for this book! I really appreciate you helping me enter my Fantasy era <3
**all opinions are my own!!!**
The plot was sooo good! Whenever I wasn't reading I was thinking about the book. I loved the way the world and magic system was written / executed, it was easy to follow and understand.
Its a short book but its absolutely jammed packed with action, fairies, vampires, and a spicy little love triangle 👀.
I ADORED the love interests and absolutely cannot wait to see where the series will go from here! The spice and love triangle was very well done! There were about 4-5 spicy scenes but it didn’t over power the plot which I always appreciate!
Literally so excited to re-read when book 2 comes out!
Huge thank you to Jenny grimes for letting me be apart of your ARC team for this book! I really appreciate you helping me enter my Fantasy era <3
**all opinions are my own!!!**
June 14, 2025
Huge thanks to the NerdFam for the gifted ARC of Shaedes of Power by Jenny Grimes. This why-choose dark fantasy romance takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, high-stakes adventure, and passionate love.
The story follows Opal as she fights to save her realm while navigating a tangled web of romance. There’s the charming human she rescues from a shadow beast and the seductive Dark Prince who captures her, tempting her to explore the dark and mysterious world of the shadows.
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its rich and immersive world-building. The descriptions are lush and vivid, pulling me right into the atmosphere of the story. The unique magic system, featuring fairies and dark fairies (who are essentially vampires), added a fresh twist to classic fantasy elements.
However, I did find the character development lacking. The motivations of the characters often felt unclear, and the romances, while intriguing, came off as rushed and underdeveloped. I think a longer page count or perhaps multiple POVs could have helped flesh out the relationships and make the love interests feel more compelling.
Despite these issues, I still really enjoyed the book. The world-building alone made it worth the read, and Opal was a likable protagonist. If you love dark fantasy romance and the why-choose trope, this is definitely a book to check out. I had a good time reading it and would love to see more from this fascinating world!
The story follows Opal as she fights to save her realm while navigating a tangled web of romance. There’s the charming human she rescues from a shadow beast and the seductive Dark Prince who captures her, tempting her to explore the dark and mysterious world of the shadows.
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its rich and immersive world-building. The descriptions are lush and vivid, pulling me right into the atmosphere of the story. The unique magic system, featuring fairies and dark fairies (who are essentially vampires), added a fresh twist to classic fantasy elements.
However, I did find the character development lacking. The motivations of the characters often felt unclear, and the romances, while intriguing, came off as rushed and underdeveloped. I think a longer page count or perhaps multiple POVs could have helped flesh out the relationships and make the love interests feel more compelling.
Despite these issues, I still really enjoyed the book. The world-building alone made it worth the read, and Opal was a likable protagonist. If you love dark fantasy romance and the why-choose trope, this is definitely a book to check out. I had a good time reading it and would love to see more from this fascinating world!
March 14, 2025
The world building in this book is amazing! And something I really appreciated was that the book just starts right in the middle of these main characters lives. Instead of having to read years of backstory, we get to jump right into the story.
The story starts on earth, where the Shaede faeries are on their conversance (where they spend a couple of years on Earth to better understand humans, whom they protect). Without giving away too much, the faeries encounter a shadow beast, attacking a human, and after a bloody fight, are immediately portaled back to their realm, where they discover the dark faerie princes have sent shadow beasts out to multiple realms. They brought the human with them, who happened to be someone who visited the coffee shop where they work on a daily basis, so he could be healed. From there, the friends are unexpectedly chosen to take on the higher task of dealing with the dark faerie threat.
The FMC Opal is a Shaede faerie whose color has yet to come in, and with high expectations of becoming a shaede, she is starting to think she won't ever have a purpose. This all changes in an unexpected turn of events, where Opal is in a forced proximity situation with one of the dark princes, Edmyn. Opal and Edmyn are able to learn more about each other, and find a closeness neither of them expected. Opal also discovers what her power truly is, and in so doing, shares a piece of herself with Edmyn, which in turn breaks a centuries long curse on him.
Opal also still has feelings for the human, Farris, and you have to read how that all goes!
The description in this story is so well written, I truly felt I was in the different realms and areas that were being described. The author gives a lot of description, without it being over the top. I love how Opal is somewhat of a rebel, doing things that faeries are not supposed to, and of course, falling for the dark prince. The second Edmyn came into the stroy, I just knew what was going to happen, well I really hoped what would happen between them. I didn't expect the love triangle though, so that was interesting. It must be so so hard for Opal to have to pick the light or the dark as her main home because that also inevitably separates her from one of her loves. It’s a little tragic.
There are just so many things about this story that are so good, but to avoid spoilers I cannot describe them all, so I highly recommend you read this book!!
Thank you so much to the author for a review copy of this book.
The story starts on earth, where the Shaede faeries are on their conversance (where they spend a couple of years on Earth to better understand humans, whom they protect). Without giving away too much, the faeries encounter a shadow beast, attacking a human, and after a bloody fight, are immediately portaled back to their realm, where they discover the dark faerie princes have sent shadow beasts out to multiple realms. They brought the human with them, who happened to be someone who visited the coffee shop where they work on a daily basis, so he could be healed. From there, the friends are unexpectedly chosen to take on the higher task of dealing with the dark faerie threat.
The FMC Opal is a Shaede faerie whose color has yet to come in, and with high expectations of becoming a shaede, she is starting to think she won't ever have a purpose. This all changes in an unexpected turn of events, where Opal is in a forced proximity situation with one of the dark princes, Edmyn. Opal and Edmyn are able to learn more about each other, and find a closeness neither of them expected. Opal also discovers what her power truly is, and in so doing, shares a piece of herself with Edmyn, which in turn breaks a centuries long curse on him.
Opal also still has feelings for the human, Farris, and you have to read how that all goes!
The description in this story is so well written, I truly felt I was in the different realms and areas that were being described. The author gives a lot of description, without it being over the top. I love how Opal is somewhat of a rebel, doing things that faeries are not supposed to, and of course, falling for the dark prince. The second Edmyn came into the stroy, I just knew what was going to happen, well I really hoped what would happen between them. I didn't expect the love triangle though, so that was interesting. It must be so so hard for Opal to have to pick the light or the dark as her main home because that also inevitably separates her from one of her loves. It’s a little tragic.
There are just so many things about this story that are so good, but to avoid spoilers I cannot describe them all, so I highly recommend you read this book!!
Thank you so much to the author for a review copy of this book.
November 27, 2024
I was lucky to have been given an ARC copy of this book. Opal (the MFC) grew on me throughout the book. The dynamic of relationships in this book aren’t one that I am used to so this was a little different for me (in a good way!). This book is incredibly fast paced, there was no unnecessary pieces added to the book. But at the same time, some moments were so fast you almost wished they lasted longer. All of the main characters had strong and unique personalities. I feel like this was the perfect balance between light and dark & I honestly hope this becomes a series! For a debut novel for Jenny Grimes, I am impressed and will be following her for more releases.
October 31, 2024
This was a fun read. I look forward to following this author as she adds more to this world!
It blends human, faerie and vampire lore with a touch of spice.
Some of the transitions feel rushed, but overall for a debut novel, I was impressed.
It blends human, faerie and vampire lore with a touch of spice.
Some of the transitions feel rushed, but overall for a debut novel, I was impressed.
February 24, 2025
⭐️2.5-3/5
Shaedes of Power is a why-choose fantasy romance following the journey of Opal through self-discovery, (multiple) romances, and saving the future of her realm.
I felt this book had a lot of potential. It had a very fun and unique magic system of fae that develop “Shaedes” that decide their powers. Opal hasn’t really developed a shaede, and is instead an opalescent hodgepodge of multiple colors, making her feel like she doesn’t belong.
The world depicted was beautifully described and such an interesting concept with the faeries at war with the shadow/vampire like creatures in the Shadowlands. We only explore a tiny amount of this world which leaves a lot open for the subsequent books!
However, a few things fell short for me in the book for me to rate it higher.
The dialogue was often clunky and disjointed, with long winded info dumps.
The characters lacked depth, and the side characters just felt like names and stereotypes.
The characters often made choices that didn’t exactly align with their character but it was obvious they did it to further the plot only.
There’s also a love triangle/why choose between Opal, the golden retriever human, and the broody shadowland prince. Love triangles aren’t my favorite but I am curious to see what ends up happening between the three of them.
The sequel promises dragons so I’ll probably read it to see where the story goes, if the characters become more developed, and of course…dragons!
Thank you to the author, Jenny Grimes, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review 😊
Shaedes of Power is a why-choose fantasy romance following the journey of Opal through self-discovery, (multiple) romances, and saving the future of her realm.
I felt this book had a lot of potential. It had a very fun and unique magic system of fae that develop “Shaedes” that decide their powers. Opal hasn’t really developed a shaede, and is instead an opalescent hodgepodge of multiple colors, making her feel like she doesn’t belong.
The world depicted was beautifully described and such an interesting concept with the faeries at war with the shadow/vampire like creatures in the Shadowlands. We only explore a tiny amount of this world which leaves a lot open for the subsequent books!
However, a few things fell short for me in the book for me to rate it higher.
The dialogue was often clunky and disjointed, with long winded info dumps.
The characters lacked depth, and the side characters just felt like names and stereotypes.
The characters often made choices that didn’t exactly align with their character but it was obvious they did it to further the plot only.
There’s also a love triangle/why choose between Opal, the golden retriever human, and the broody shadowland prince. Love triangles aren’t my favorite but I am curious to see what ends up happening between the three of them.
The sequel promises dragons so I’ll probably read it to see where the story goes, if the characters become more developed, and of course…dragons!
Thank you to the author, Jenny Grimes, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review 😊
February 27, 2025
I’ll I just say…. This is probably one of the best indie author ARCs I have read! I actually very rarely give an ARC a 5 star, but this one deserves it. The magic system was super unique with a “why choose” trope and some steamyyy romance. And an actually UNIQUE pet name. I think the only real feedback was that the climax fight was just a tad quick, but otherwise I thought the character development, romance and tension build up was great. I’m so excited for the next novel that Jenny Grimes writes!
July 26, 2025
A Faerie High Court, light & dark magic, dragons, fae vamps, love, power and a dark fae set on revenge. If this sounds like something you'd enjoy - you won't want to miss this series!
Ok, this world was amazing. It took a minute to understand the magic system but once I got it, I was all in. I loved the light versus dark theme both with magic, the parts of the faerie land and the siblings.
The romance sucked me in & never let go- I love a good love triangle and this one was so good! Opal, Ferris & Edmyn are HOT!
The action was great - tense filled and emotional battle scenes kept me furiously turning pages.
Overall, this was a great start to the Soul Magic series and I can't wait to read book two, Shaedes of Fire. Bring on the dragons!
Ok, this world was amazing. It took a minute to understand the magic system but once I got it, I was all in. I loved the light versus dark theme both with magic, the parts of the faerie land and the siblings.
The romance sucked me in & never let go- I love a good love triangle and this one was so good! Opal, Ferris & Edmyn are HOT!
The action was great - tense filled and emotional battle scenes kept me furiously turning pages.
Overall, this was a great start to the Soul Magic series and I can't wait to read book two, Shaedes of Fire. Bring on the dragons!
January 13, 2025
I finished up Shaedes of Power last night and feel a little wrecked that I don't know when the next installment comes out!
Book One on the Soul Magic series is the beginning of Opal's adventure. A fae living in our world for education, she is very suddenly sucked back into her magical realm when an attack from a monstrous creature gets her and a few friends involved in the rescue of a human.
Opal is now faced with some realities: Will a darkness settle over her fae world? What can she do about it?
I loved Opal right from the start. This book is not just about her magic and love interests, it's a coming of age story for sure. With the story written from her POV, we see a lot of growth and development from her.
"Reverse Harem" since there are two love interests, and I adore both. The nerdy human and the shadow daddy fae. Not since Edward and Jacob have I been so torn and I do the idea that many books are now written as "why choose", so this will keep you on your toes. A little more insta- love than I am used to, but I understand that the author can't write a 800 page book so I can enjoy a slow burn (but if she did, I would read the heck out of this)
The world building was told through dialogue with her new human love interest and did the job, but did move really quickly and I would have been absolutely fine with 200 more pages to learn about this fae world and the "color" magic of the Shaedes. The magical component is done really well and I love the way these fae actually acquire their magic rather than just born into it.
The ending "face off, final fight" was really rushed and I had a little trouble following and needed to re-read a bit, but I REALLY look forward to a next installment!
Thank you to Jenny Grimes for the opportunity to read, I cannot wait to add this to my library- the cover is BEAUTIFUL!
Book One on the Soul Magic series is the beginning of Opal's adventure. A fae living in our world for education, she is very suddenly sucked back into her magical realm when an attack from a monstrous creature gets her and a few friends involved in the rescue of a human.
Opal is now faced with some realities: Will a darkness settle over her fae world? What can she do about it?
I loved Opal right from the start. This book is not just about her magic and love interests, it's a coming of age story for sure. With the story written from her POV, we see a lot of growth and development from her.
"Reverse Harem" since there are two love interests, and I adore both. The nerdy human and the shadow daddy fae. Not since Edward and Jacob have I been so torn and I do the idea that many books are now written as "why choose", so this will keep you on your toes. A little more insta- love than I am used to, but I understand that the author can't write a 800 page book so I can enjoy a slow burn (but if she did, I would read the heck out of this)
The world building was told through dialogue with her new human love interest and did the job, but did move really quickly and I would have been absolutely fine with 200 more pages to learn about this fae world and the "color" magic of the Shaedes. The magical component is done really well and I love the way these fae actually acquire their magic rather than just born into it.
The ending "face off, final fight" was really rushed and I had a little trouble following and needed to re-read a bit, but I REALLY look forward to a next installment!
Thank you to Jenny Grimes for the opportunity to read, I cannot wait to add this to my library- the cover is BEAUTIFUL!
February 24, 2025
A solid 3.75⭐️ 2🌶.
A debut Dark Romantasy with Fae and Vampires. And Dragons. With the world-building, politics, and magic system intricately interwoven, it is easy to follow along.
With the main characters moving between the human realm and the fae realm, there is a lot to follow. I felt that some of the storyline got left behind. I'm hoping that it was intentionally done, and we'll get to hear their parts in the next book.
Opal, Ferris and Edmyn. Poor Opal has a conundrum on her hands. I know who I'm going for. I'm looking forward to seeing where the author takes this. The magic system and the Shaedes are very intriguing. I hope we get a little bit more of the magic system as well.
A debut Dark Romantasy with Fae and Vampires. And Dragons. With the world-building, politics, and magic system intricately interwoven, it is easy to follow along.
With the main characters moving between the human realm and the fae realm, there is a lot to follow. I felt that some of the storyline got left behind. I'm hoping that it was intentionally done, and we'll get to hear their parts in the next book.
Opal, Ferris and Edmyn. Poor Opal has a conundrum on her hands. I know who I'm going for. I'm looking forward to seeing where the author takes this. The magic system and the Shaedes are very intriguing. I hope we get a little bit more of the magic system as well.
February 18, 2025
Honestly, I’m a bit confused on how I feel about this book. Firstly, shoutout to @The Nerd Fam for the eARC! While I enjoyed the concept and the plot wasn’t bad either, I just kinda wanted more ya know? It definitely was refreshing to have roles reversed, where the male human gets taken to the fae world by a female fae. My favorite parts were of their time in the Shadowlands, but it’s mainly because of Edmyn lol. I wanted more from Opal’s relationships, they fell a bit short in my opinion. The ending also felt a bit rushed? Like hey our world is about to end but like boom! Here’s a solution and done 🤷🏽♀️. Despite these mixed feelings, I still would read another if there going to be a 2nd book!
May 1, 2025
I am obsessed with Shaedes of Power & I cannot wait until Shaedes of Fire comes out❤️🔥❤️🔥
SOP will pull you in from page one with its beautiful world-building and unique color-driven magic system. Opal is our heroine you can’t help but root for— she’s an outcast fighting for her place in a faerie society that sees her as less than because she hasn’t come into her Shaede. But then shadow beasts return, threatening both the human and fae realms, she’s thrown into a world of darkness, forbidden magic, and has two love interests.
The romance? Soooo electric⚡️⚡️
Between Faris, the charming human and the dangerously seductive Dark Prince, Opal’s love life is the definitely of Why-Choose.
The magic is beautiful and the politics between the two courts is done so well!! You can feel the tension between them.
I highly recommend you read Shaedes of Power if you’re a romantasy lover!!
SOP will pull you in from page one with its beautiful world-building and unique color-driven magic system. Opal is our heroine you can’t help but root for— she’s an outcast fighting for her place in a faerie society that sees her as less than because she hasn’t come into her Shaede. But then shadow beasts return, threatening both the human and fae realms, she’s thrown into a world of darkness, forbidden magic, and has two love interests.
The romance? Soooo electric⚡️⚡️
Between Faris, the charming human and the dangerously seductive Dark Prince, Opal’s love life is the definitely of Why-Choose.
The magic is beautiful and the politics between the two courts is done so well!! You can feel the tension between them.
I highly recommend you read Shaedes of Power if you’re a romantasy lover!!
March 11, 2025
I really enjoyed the characters in this book! It’s definitely not your typical fae fantasy read, and I love the world Jenny has created. There were so many twists that started early on and made this such a great read. Jenny’s writing style is fantastic and made it easy to picture the characters and their emotions, as well as stay engaged in the story.
March 1, 2025
I loved the unique magic system in this book. Every color of fae or shade rather was a different type of magic.
Opal and a few of her fae friends were living in the human world observing the culture of humans. One human named Farris was attached by a dark beast that should not have been in the human world. They take him back to the shade court to heal. Then all hell breaks lose when the dark fae step into court, kills all the high fae; and now Opal and her group of friends are in charge and have to figure out how to stop the dark fae.
Opal and a few of her fae friends were living in the human world observing the culture of humans. One human named Farris was attached by a dark beast that should not have been in the human world. They take him back to the shade court to heal. Then all hell breaks lose when the dark fae step into court, kills all the high fae; and now Opal and her group of friends are in charge and have to figure out how to stop the dark fae.
November 11, 2024
This was my first ARC read and I’m happy to say that I chose right for my first one! I genuinely enjoyed this book from beginning to end, I was never bored.
Shaedes of Power is a dark romantasy where the FMC, Opal who is Fae goes through a journey of self discovery, love, loss, and protecting her realm in a world full of monsters, magic, and danger.
The characters in this book were very like-able. Opal has a lot of growing to go through and I’m excited to see her character development throughout this series. Here, she is discovering who she is and where she belongs. Now, Edmyn had me intrigued from the moment he was introduced. He is Opal’s enemy, the vampire dark prince who is quiet, perceiving, and likes getting dirty. Then there’s Farris, the human who has been pining over Opal for 2 years who is loyal, a sweetheart, a fighter and suspicious.
I really enjoyed how the world building wasn’t thrown at me all at once, it was refreshing. It was dropped throughout the book where it wasn’t information overload.
Even though this is advertised as enemies to lovers, I wouldn’t say it’s heavy on the enemies part. So, I wouldn’t call it a true enemies to lovers, but in a way it is.
This book is more focused on the plot and world-building, so there’s minimal spice but I was so into the plot that the little spice didn’t matter much to me. This will be a 4 book series, so I’m sure the spice will be spicing in the next books.
Overall, I gave this book 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!!! I really enjoyed it, I had some jaw dropping moments where I also had to sit up and glue my eyes closer to my kindle.
Shaedes of Power is a dark romantasy where the FMC, Opal who is Fae goes through a journey of self discovery, love, loss, and protecting her realm in a world full of monsters, magic, and danger.
The characters in this book were very like-able. Opal has a lot of growing to go through and I’m excited to see her character development throughout this series. Here, she is discovering who she is and where she belongs. Now, Edmyn had me intrigued from the moment he was introduced. He is Opal’s enemy, the vampire dark prince who is quiet, perceiving, and likes getting dirty. Then there’s Farris, the human who has been pining over Opal for 2 years who is loyal, a sweetheart, a fighter and suspicious.
I really enjoyed how the world building wasn’t thrown at me all at once, it was refreshing. It was dropped throughout the book where it wasn’t information overload.
Even though this is advertised as enemies to lovers, I wouldn’t say it’s heavy on the enemies part. So, I wouldn’t call it a true enemies to lovers, but in a way it is.
This book is more focused on the plot and world-building, so there’s minimal spice but I was so into the plot that the little spice didn’t matter much to me. This will be a 4 book series, so I’m sure the spice will be spicing in the next books.
Overall, I gave this book 4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!!! I really enjoyed it, I had some jaw dropping moments where I also had to sit up and glue my eyes closer to my kindle.
March 25, 2025
Was ok
December 15, 2024
Tbh I started this book without any expectations. I often thinks that is fantacy is really my genre?? But after I dive into the few chapters I was already in love with this book. This book is so much magic and whimsical. I loved the paranormal things like there is vampires, werewolves, faeries, dark shadow monsters and even Zombies. And I love the magic portals. It gives me sometype of enthusiasm to read more🔮
I didn't expect the love triangle there..it got me completely off guard but in a good way. Author did justice to that love triangle and I loved each and every character described in this. Every one holds a main space and that's what I loved💗
This turns out to be one of my fav fantacy reads. Guys go for it.
I would rate it 4.25⭐️
This is an ARC Review. Thanks to the author🫶🏻
I didn't expect the love triangle there..it got me completely off guard but in a good way. Author did justice to that love triangle and I loved each and every character described in this. Every one holds a main space and that's what I loved💗
This turns out to be one of my fav fantacy reads. Guys go for it.
I would rate it 4.25⭐️
This is an ARC Review. Thanks to the author🫶🏻
November 15, 2024
Did I read this in 1 sitting, yes I did! Did I love every second of it, absolutely!
I loved Opal’s story of coming into her complex power, this story has a captivating magic system and sets us up for a larger world with more adventures.
The writing is easy to follow and pulls you in immediately. I dare say it has one of my favorite minor characters Leyanna of course, absolutely feisty, funny and loyal.
All I am going to say is I am team Edmyn forever…. You’ll just have to pick this book up to find out what I mean.
I was provided an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I loved Opal’s story of coming into her complex power, this story has a captivating magic system and sets us up for a larger world with more adventures.
The writing is easy to follow and pulls you in immediately. I dare say it has one of my favorite minor characters Leyanna of course, absolutely feisty, funny and loyal.
All I am going to say is I am team Edmyn forever…. You’ll just have to pick this book up to find out what I mean.
I was provided an ARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 22, 2024
In the beginning it felt a little rough for me, like I could tell some of the scenes were used solely to info dump so some parts in the beginning didn't feel super natural and the relationship with Opal and her two mmc's did feel a little rushed, like I wouldn't have minded a little longer read to amp up those scenes that build that romantic tension between them. But outside of those things I had a blast!
The magic system was cool, they talked about Opal being different but didn't give us much detail on why or what she is if she's a different type of Sheade, unless shes just the same as sandrell and i missed the clarification on that lol. (Which is very likely lol)
The love triangle i knew was in this but I didn't see her tying herself to both of them, I loved this. I can't wait to see how they interact with this new situation going forward, I'm sure it's gonna lead to some fun and wild spicy scenes 😂
Last thing, I wish there was higher stakes left at the end. They mentioned how they had to figure out how they would lead but I didn't feel like there was a big bad looming that made me want to run into the next book, now don't get me wrong I WILL be reading the next one still because even with the things I mentioned it was still a good read and i still want to learn about these characters and world!
This story has amazing potential and I can not wait to see what Jenny has in store for us going forward!
The magic system was cool, they talked about Opal being different but didn't give us much detail on why or what she is if she's a different type of Sheade, unless shes just the same as sandrell and i missed the clarification on that lol. (Which is very likely lol)
The love triangle i knew was in this but I didn't see her tying herself to both of them, I loved this. I can't wait to see how they interact with this new situation going forward, I'm sure it's gonna lead to some fun and wild spicy scenes 😂
Last thing, I wish there was higher stakes left at the end. They mentioned how they had to figure out how they would lead but I didn't feel like there was a big bad looming that made me want to run into the next book, now don't get me wrong I WILL be reading the next one still because even with the things I mentioned it was still a good read and i still want to learn about these characters and world!
This story has amazing potential and I can not wait to see what Jenny has in store for us going forward!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2025
This was a relatively short read that introduces you into this new fantasy world. The world building was easy to understand and I feel we’re gonna learn a lot more about the world in the next book as well which I can’t wait for.
This books does a good job of balancing the spice with the plot. The characters are wonderful and I love how different they all are and how they’ve formed their own little family after all the loss they have to endure and being thrust into sudden power. It was refreshing that the characters who were thrust into power were overwhelmed and unsure of what to do, many books the new person in power always seems to have the answer and know what to do so it was refreshing to see these characters learn how to do that and not just ‘automatically know.’ The character development was great and you get to see it with your main characters and side characters.
The romance features one of favorite tropes; a love triangle / why choose. Edmyn and Farris are Opal’s love interests and I’m curious to see how it plays out in the next book. I’m rooting for Edmyn. I originally did really like Farris but by the end I was getting bad vibes.
It is a dark romantasy so there are some dark topics brought up so be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Thank you so much Jenny Grimes for allowing me to ARC read this!
This books does a good job of balancing the spice with the plot. The characters are wonderful and I love how different they all are and how they’ve formed their own little family after all the loss they have to endure and being thrust into sudden power. It was refreshing that the characters who were thrust into power were overwhelmed and unsure of what to do, many books the new person in power always seems to have the answer and know what to do so it was refreshing to see these characters learn how to do that and not just ‘automatically know.’ The character development was great and you get to see it with your main characters and side characters.
The romance features one of favorite tropes; a love triangle / why choose. Edmyn and Farris are Opal’s love interests and I’m curious to see how it plays out in the next book. I’m rooting for Edmyn. I originally did really like Farris but by the end I was getting bad vibes.
It is a dark romantasy so there are some dark topics brought up so be sure to check the trigger warnings before diving in.
Thank you so much Jenny Grimes for allowing me to ARC read this!
March 8, 2025
I am so thankful to have gotten an arc for this! The magic system and the world building was so unique! I loved the idea of each fae having a shaede so like red, blue, green, etc and it each shaede is a different court. And then there is the naturals that don’t have a shaede but are still fae. It was giving divergent which I loved.
I honestly really did enjoy the whole plot line of the book and the conflict with the night court and the night court king Ciaran. I enjoyed seeing Opal on her path to self-discovery and a how she would do anything in her power to save her realm even though she has some insecurities deep rooted in herself because she doesn’t have a shaede. I enjoyed seeing her character development and how she eventually sees her true potential and how powerful she can be with her magic.
Going into that I probably should’ve read the blurb but I like to go in blind so I didn’t and I didn’t realize this was reverse harem. That is not typically my thing so that was a new avenue for me to cross. I personally don’t think it is my thing still. I found myself having a bit more of a connection the dark curly haired, fae prince from the night court then I did the blond long haired human. I found myself wanting to see more moments between her and Edmyn the night court prince. But I honestly still liked both the way they love her and worship her was chefs freaking kiss🤭
So it being reverse harem would be my only flaw but that is me personally. Besides that I really vibed with it so if that is your thing I’m sure you will absolutely love this book.
3.5-3.75⭐️
I honestly really did enjoy the whole plot line of the book and the conflict with the night court and the night court king Ciaran. I enjoyed seeing Opal on her path to self-discovery and a how she would do anything in her power to save her realm even though she has some insecurities deep rooted in herself because she doesn’t have a shaede. I enjoyed seeing her character development and how she eventually sees her true potential and how powerful she can be with her magic.
Going into that I probably should’ve read the blurb but I like to go in blind so I didn’t and I didn’t realize this was reverse harem. That is not typically my thing so that was a new avenue for me to cross. I personally don’t think it is my thing still. I found myself having a bit more of a connection the dark curly haired, fae prince from the night court then I did the blond long haired human. I found myself wanting to see more moments between her and Edmyn the night court prince. But I honestly still liked both the way they love her and worship her was chefs freaking kiss🤭
So it being reverse harem would be my only flaw but that is me personally. Besides that I really vibed with it so if that is your thing I’m sure you will absolutely love this book.
3.5-3.75⭐️
March 5, 2025
"How many pieces of your soul can you give away… before you break?" That question haunted me as I devoured Shaedes of Power, a book that delivers a unique blend of dark fantasy, court intrigue, and deliciously tangled romance.
From the start, Opal’s journey pulled me in—she’s an underdog in a fae society where magic defines status, but she refuses to be defined by her limitations. The world-building is immersive, with a hierarchy of color-based magic that feels fresh and intriguing. And let’s talk about the romance—Opal is caught between two very different but equally compelling love interests: a human she risks everything to save and a dangerously seductive Dark Prince who tempts her with the shadows. The tension, the chemistry, the angst—it’s all here, and it’s good.
The pacing had moments that dragged a bit, especially with the sheer amount of world-building packed into the first half, but once the stakes were set, the story took off. The dark magic, court politics, and looming war kept me hooked, even when I wished Opal made some different choices. That said, I loved the morally gray characters and the way the lines between good and evil blurred—no one is entirely innocent, and that made the story even richer.
From the start, Opal’s journey pulled me in—she’s an underdog in a fae society where magic defines status, but she refuses to be defined by her limitations. The world-building is immersive, with a hierarchy of color-based magic that feels fresh and intriguing. And let’s talk about the romance—Opal is caught between two very different but equally compelling love interests: a human she risks everything to save and a dangerously seductive Dark Prince who tempts her with the shadows. The tension, the chemistry, the angst—it’s all here, and it’s good.
The pacing had moments that dragged a bit, especially with the sheer amount of world-building packed into the first half, but once the stakes were set, the story took off. The dark magic, court politics, and looming war kept me hooked, even when I wished Opal made some different choices. That said, I loved the morally gray characters and the way the lines between good and evil blurred—no one is entirely innocent, and that made the story even richer.
February 23, 2025
I was provided an ARC copy of Shaedes of Power by the author, all opinions and observations are my own.
Well firstly, I love the cast of characters that Jenny has created in this world of hers. Dru, Leyanna, Glory, and Lennyx were fun to get to know and I look forward to learning more about them as the series progresses.
Now onto our dynamic trio, some will ask if I’m team Edmyn or team Farris…nope. I’m team both and you will not sway me. Edmyn is morally grey but I would argue even more so a cinnamon roll who just wants to do bright for himself and the realm. Farris is a golden retriever if ever there was one, with an underlying stoic demeanour that you come to respect about him. Opal, she is conflicted and questions her capability but quickly comes round to realizing her full potential…thus going into each choice with a resolute surety.
I really enjoyed this first instalment in the Soul Magic series, at times I did find it to be a bit rapid as the story went on and wish it could have been expanded on a bit to really flush out the story.
However overall a really strong debut, and I look forward to reading the next one.
Well firstly, I love the cast of characters that Jenny has created in this world of hers. Dru, Leyanna, Glory, and Lennyx were fun to get to know and I look forward to learning more about them as the series progresses.
Now onto our dynamic trio, some will ask if I’m team Edmyn or team Farris…nope. I’m team both and you will not sway me. Edmyn is morally grey but I would argue even more so a cinnamon roll who just wants to do bright for himself and the realm. Farris is a golden retriever if ever there was one, with an underlying stoic demeanour that you come to respect about him. Opal, she is conflicted and questions her capability but quickly comes round to realizing her full potential…thus going into each choice with a resolute surety.
I really enjoyed this first instalment in the Soul Magic series, at times I did find it to be a bit rapid as the story went on and wish it could have been expanded on a bit to really flush out the story.
However overall a really strong debut, and I look forward to reading the next one.
February 21, 2025
Shaedes of Power is a dark fae romantasy that follows outcast Opal. She lives in the human realm but has to return to the faerie reall after an attack from a beast that is supossed to be in the Shadowlands. There she finds that the faerie realm is in chaos and the Dark Princes are ready to start a war. In an attempt to save her realm, she travels to the Shadowlands. In a journey of self discovery she has to find a balance between her love for a human and a Dark Prince.
I was immediately sucked into the world Jenny created and stayed intruiged throughout the whole story. Opal is an interesting charachter to follow though I was not a fan of the love triangle. This did play a big part in the book, and I still rated it 4 stars because I genuinely liked the idea of the story. The pacing of the book was well done, and there was never a dull moment. It also wasn´t overly complicated, which I appreciated. The other characters, like her friends and the Dark Princes were interesting and fun as well so all in all, this was a great read!
I am excited to see what more Jenny will come up with for Opal and her friends.
Thank you The Nerd Fam for an eARC of this book!
I was immediately sucked into the world Jenny created and stayed intruiged throughout the whole story. Opal is an interesting charachter to follow though I was not a fan of the love triangle. This did play a big part in the book, and I still rated it 4 stars because I genuinely liked the idea of the story. The pacing of the book was well done, and there was never a dull moment. It also wasn´t overly complicated, which I appreciated. The other characters, like her friends and the Dark Princes were interesting and fun as well so all in all, this was a great read!
I am excited to see what more Jenny will come up with for Opal and her friends.
Thank you The Nerd Fam for an eARC of this book!
March 15, 2025
really enjoyed the premise of this plot and the lore surrounding this unique magic system! i loved both farris and edmyn for different reasons, but edmyn was definitely my favorite. i admire opal for her strength and enjoyed reading about her growing into her magical powers, while also discovering there is power in both light and dark 🖤
for romantasy fans who enjoy why choose, enemies to lovers, and forced proximity, with fae, humans and vampire lore. give this a shot! unfortunately the ending did feel a bit rushed and easy to me personally. i also wish the majority of the world building didn’t come in the form of opal info dumping with her friends. some of the romance felt surface level and rushed as well, but maybe that was the intention and there will be more in book two! i will definitely be picking up the second book! excited to find out what is in store next for all of them 🖤🖤
thank you to the nerd fam for a copy of this digital arc 🫶🏼
for romantasy fans who enjoy why choose, enemies to lovers, and forced proximity, with fae, humans and vampire lore. give this a shot! unfortunately the ending did feel a bit rushed and easy to me personally. i also wish the majority of the world building didn’t come in the form of opal info dumping with her friends. some of the romance felt surface level and rushed as well, but maybe that was the intention and there will be more in book two! i will definitely be picking up the second book! excited to find out what is in store next for all of them 🖤🖤
thank you to the nerd fam for a copy of this digital arc 🫶🏼
February 28, 2025
4⭐️
3🌶️
Debut author what?! Jenny's coming out the jump with an absolute gem!
I'm obsessed. Period. The end.
There is not one character I do not like. The color magic system is so unique. Fae AND Vampires! A love triangle (possibly more why choose situation) that honestly has more maturity than I have seen, thus far. This is such a quick and immersive read too, I would have read this in one sitting if I could have. Morally Grey and Cinnamon Roll MMCs that are wonderful in so many ways.
Opal and her friends are all so relatable. The love and care they have for each other is so refreshing. Watching their journeys into figuring out themselves/power was really enjoyable.
There were a few scenes that moved a bit faster than I would of liked, but all in all I wasn't ready for this to be over! Highly recommend and I cannot wait for the rest of this series. Thank you so much Jenny for this ARC for a honest review.
-- Quotes --
"Not everything that is dark is meant to be menacing. Sometimes something that is dark is just different, and different can be beautiful."
"If kissing him was the spark that started everything in motion, our hands were what kindled the flame."
"Little Prism, You, whom I have already silently pledged a thousand of my lifetimes to protect."
"He's harder to kill this way .... I approve"
3🌶️
Debut author what?! Jenny's coming out the jump with an absolute gem!
I'm obsessed. Period. The end.
There is not one character I do not like. The color magic system is so unique. Fae AND Vampires! A love triangle (possibly more why choose situation) that honestly has more maturity than I have seen, thus far. This is such a quick and immersive read too, I would have read this in one sitting if I could have. Morally Grey and Cinnamon Roll MMCs that are wonderful in so many ways.
Opal and her friends are all so relatable. The love and care they have for each other is so refreshing. Watching their journeys into figuring out themselves/power was really enjoyable.
There were a few scenes that moved a bit faster than I would of liked, but all in all I wasn't ready for this to be over! Highly recommend and I cannot wait for the rest of this series. Thank you so much Jenny for this ARC for a honest review.
-- Quotes --
"Not everything that is dark is meant to be menacing. Sometimes something that is dark is just different, and different can be beautiful."
"If kissing him was the spark that started everything in motion, our hands were what kindled the flame."
"Little Prism, You, whom I have already silently pledged a thousand of my lifetimes to protect."
"He's harder to kill this way .... I approve"
March 4, 2025
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for my eARC of this book!
3.5 ⭐️
Overall he sorry was good and I enjoyed it. The main characters were nice and the plot was good but everything felt a tiny bit rushed in terms of the romance and the story line. Also I was say that this was marketed to me as a dark fantasy romance but honestly it wasn’t that dark (which isn’t bad but it’s a bit annoying that it’s marketed wrong). This is important to note because when reading it 1) there isn’t a lot of dark elements and 2) the writing will seem a bit juvenile if you’re looking for a dark romantasy, if you go in knowing it’s more of just a plain romantasy then the writing is quite enjoyable. Overall I would recommend this if you’re looking for a quick good romantasy book
3.5 ⭐️
Overall he sorry was good and I enjoyed it. The main characters were nice and the plot was good but everything felt a tiny bit rushed in terms of the romance and the story line. Also I was say that this was marketed to me as a dark fantasy romance but honestly it wasn’t that dark (which isn’t bad but it’s a bit annoying that it’s marketed wrong). This is important to note because when reading it 1) there isn’t a lot of dark elements and 2) the writing will seem a bit juvenile if you’re looking for a dark romantasy, if you go in knowing it’s more of just a plain romantasy then the writing is quite enjoyable. Overall I would recommend this if you’re looking for a quick good romantasy book
February 25, 2025
Reading this book felt like handing the keys to a bunch of children and telling them "good luck," in the best possible way😂 The sense of adventure is palpable, with characters embarking on journeys that are as unpredictable as they are thrilling. This whimsical approach adds charm and humor to the story, making it a delightful read for anyone who enjoys a good escapade! It's a refreshing reminder that sometimes the best adventures come from unexpected and unplanned beginnings.
And when I tell you I absolutely love why-choose romance!😍
The magic system is so unique and it makes me want to be a Shaede! (Probably purple💜)
I can't wait for the next book to continue this adventure!
And when I tell you I absolutely love why-choose romance!😍
The magic system is so unique and it makes me want to be a Shaede! (Probably purple💜)
I can't wait for the next book to continue this adventure!
December 24, 2024
I was fortunate enough to read an ARC of Shaedes of Power, and let me tell you, this new adult dark fantasy romance is going to be ✨popular✨when it releases in March 2025!
Think of it as a darker, more adult version of Tinkerbell, with a cast of unique faeries surrounding our fierce FMC, Opal.
The magic system was hands down one of my favorite elements! Something I hadn’t read before!
This book is perfect for fans of:
* Plot & spicy romance
* High stakes and unpredictable twists
* Faeries and vamps
* A love triangle featuring two polar-opposite MMCs
* Magic, curses, and deep secrets
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