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Cast in Shadow
A powerful witch. An ancient demon. And a second chance drenched in darkness.
For over a century, I’ve hunted the monsters that lurk in the shadows, but nothing has ever terrified me more than Emerson Bradach.
Ancient. Ruthless. He’s the only man I’ve ever loved... and the demon I faked my death to escape.
Now, 130 years later, he’s found me—and this time, he's not letting go.
With a thought, he paralyzes me.
With a whisper, he shatters the walls I spent a lifetime building.
With a single look, he drags me back into a past I thought I'd buried.
But I’m not the same witch I was before.
I’ve honed my power.
Built an empire in the shadows.
And I refuse to fall under his spell again.
Even when a power-hungry witch threatens my city, and the only way to stop her is to work with the one man I swore I would never trust again.
The one who still owns me, body and soul.
Lose yourself in this dark, spellbinding second-chance romance where power, vengeance, and desire collide. Perfect for fans of steamy, angsty paranormal romance featuring an ancient demon, dangerous magic, and a heroine who refuses to break.
Fair Cast in Shadow is Book 1 of the Drenched in Darkness series and it ends on CLIFFHANGER.
Content This book contains mature themes, including violence, supernatural elements, and blurred consent. Reader discretion is advised. For a full list of content warnings, please see the author's website.
For over a century, I’ve hunted the monsters that lurk in the shadows, but nothing has ever terrified me more than Emerson Bradach.
Ancient. Ruthless. He’s the only man I’ve ever loved... and the demon I faked my death to escape.
Now, 130 years later, he’s found me—and this time, he's not letting go.
With a thought, he paralyzes me.
With a whisper, he shatters the walls I spent a lifetime building.
With a single look, he drags me back into a past I thought I'd buried.
But I’m not the same witch I was before.
I’ve honed my power.
Built an empire in the shadows.
And I refuse to fall under his spell again.
Even when a power-hungry witch threatens my city, and the only way to stop her is to work with the one man I swore I would never trust again.
The one who still owns me, body and soul.
Lose yourself in this dark, spellbinding second-chance romance where power, vengeance, and desire collide. Perfect for fans of steamy, angsty paranormal romance featuring an ancient demon, dangerous magic, and a heroine who refuses to break.
Fair Cast in Shadow is Book 1 of the Drenched in Darkness series and it ends on CLIFFHANGER.
Content This book contains mature themes, including violence, supernatural elements, and blurred consent. Reader discretion is advised. For a full list of content warnings, please see the author's website.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 14, 2025
6 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Myka Bound
8 books50 followersMyka loves writing romantic fantasy about tortured characters with big hearts buried under their damage. She’s also awkward AF in real life.
She lives in the Rocky Mountains with her lumberjack-looking husband and their rowdy rescue dogs, loves quoting movies from the 80s and 90s, and she’s a total sucker for the rough-around-the-edges type.
When she isn’t tormenting her characters or dreaming up gut-wrenching plot twists, you can usually find her doing just about anything that gives her a reason to ignore her phone.
Check out her website to sign up for her newsletter for New Release notifications, exclusive content, and sneak peeks of her current projects!
If you want to reach out to her directly, you can find her on Instagram.
She lives in the Rocky Mountains with her lumberjack-looking husband and their rowdy rescue dogs, loves quoting movies from the 80s and 90s, and she’s a total sucker for the rough-around-the-edges type.
When she isn’t tormenting her characters or dreaming up gut-wrenching plot twists, you can usually find her doing just about anything that gives her a reason to ignore her phone.
Check out her website to sign up for her newsletter for New Release notifications, exclusive content, and sneak peeks of her current projects!
If you want to reach out to her directly, you can find her on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 21, 2025
This was my first ARC and I've gotta say I am so thrilled it was!
Let me preface this by saying I'm not too sure what to write. Had I not had to sleep last night, I would have finished in one day. It grabbed me and didn't want to let me go.
Love me some good ole witches and demons storyline.
Hell, I loved everything about this! The details that weren't overly detail-ish, the way the story just flowed effortlessly, the banter between characters. Just... chef's kiss
Let me preface this by saying I'm not too sure what to write. Had I not had to sleep last night, I would have finished in one day. It grabbed me and didn't want to let me go.
Love me some good ole witches and demons storyline.
Hell, I loved everything about this! The details that weren't overly detail-ish, the way the story just flowed effortlessly, the banter between characters. Just... chef's kiss
March 13, 2025
I have finished reading my ARC copy of 'Cast in Shadow' written by Myka Bound. This is both a paranormal romance as a romantic fantasy and the first book in the 'Drenched in Darkness' series.
"Every human had a trickle of magic. Almost none believed it. Fewer still knew how to use it."
I love a good fantasy and what's better than one with witches, demons, shifters and a lot of magic. And it's not only that, it has a unusual and obsessive love story which will get you hooked and a background story thats just amazing and unique.
"What happend to you?"
"You. You happend to me."
This story is mainly about Senna. She is a witch, an old one, with a dangerous history. After a century she seems to have her life back in order, until her history is coming back to haunt her. Or maybe not?
This story is amazing and catchy, the story is written in a way that it reads really easy, which also will make you not want to stop reading. And that end... Well thats an amazing cliffhanger!! So.. I can't wait till the second part of the series.
"Your energy called out to me that night, like a beacon in the darkness of my never-ending life."
This story is about fear, about love and heartbreak, about insecurities and about friendship, loyalty and family. It's about getting in your own head and expecting the worst. It's about a fight between head and heart and the bravery to make the hard choices. It's about strength and about doing something good in a world that isn't always good in return.
I can't say anything other than that this is a amazing story and I have really enjoyed it. I give it five stars.
"Every human had a trickle of magic. Almost none believed it. Fewer still knew how to use it."
I love a good fantasy and what's better than one with witches, demons, shifters and a lot of magic. And it's not only that, it has a unusual and obsessive love story which will get you hooked and a background story thats just amazing and unique.
"What happend to you?"
"You. You happend to me."
This story is mainly about Senna. She is a witch, an old one, with a dangerous history. After a century she seems to have her life back in order, until her history is coming back to haunt her. Or maybe not?
This story is amazing and catchy, the story is written in a way that it reads really easy, which also will make you not want to stop reading. And that end... Well thats an amazing cliffhanger!! So.. I can't wait till the second part of the series.
"Your energy called out to me that night, like a beacon in the darkness of my never-ending life."
This story is about fear, about love and heartbreak, about insecurities and about friendship, loyalty and family. It's about getting in your own head and expecting the worst. It's about a fight between head and heart and the bravery to make the hard choices. It's about strength and about doing something good in a world that isn't always good in return.
I can't say anything other than that this is a amazing story and I have really enjoyed it. I give it five stars.
March 11, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and what a ride it was. Straight in with the action, no slow intro. I also really appreciated learning the backstory pretty early on - no spending half the book wondering how they got here… that really helped to understand the MFC from the off.
A really well written book that gripped me from the starr. This was easy to devour - and had some deliciously hot scenes, but without so many it detracted from the story.
I can’t wait for book 2!
A really well written book that gripped me from the starr. This was easy to devour - and had some deliciously hot scenes, but without so many it detracted from the story.
I can’t wait for book 2!
April 15, 2025
Lots of plot, a little rough sub/dom spice and characters you can't help but love!
"Fucking Emerson Bradach. I should have known I'd never truly escape him"
PLOT: Over a century ago 158-year-old 'mortal' witch, Senna, faked her death to escape her love and dangerous demon, Emerson Bradach. With nothing but the clothes on her back, and at great cost to herself and her heart, she ran like her life depended on it. Now though, all these years later, she has healed but she still yearns for him like it was yesterday. Scars left by love can never truly heal. So instead, she wears them like armour, drawing strength from them and using them to protect herself and her heart from any further hurt or harm. She has accomplished a lot over the many years that have passed. She now uses her power and experience for good. Working to protect her world and all who live in it against rogue paranormal and magical threats. Her latest mission poses a huge threat to her city, one that needs to be taken out swiftly and carefully. However, whilst Senna is out hunting the power-hungry witch causing the threat, she becomes the hunted herself. Emerson Bradach has found her again. And this time he’s not letting her go without a fight.
I enjoyed reading this book. I really liked the plot and even more so that there was lots of it. I loved Myka’s world building, attention to detail and the way she really brings her characters to life. You can’t help but love them and find yourself wanting to see them succeed in all they encounter. I liked the relationship between Senna and Emerson. The battle between her head and her heart was raw and full of feeling. Emerson is the possessive ‘you’re mine’ type MMC but I loved that Senna as the FMC had a strength of her own that made her fight back. The few moments of spice between them were consensual and rough with pain, pleasure and sub/dom roles being the main themes. I thought these scenes were really tastefully written and added to the story rather than taking over. My only negative…..the huge cliffhanger ending that has left me needing more!!
I would definitely recommend this book. If you love fantasy romance that has more plot than spice then this is one for you! I love anything with demon, witchy and magic vibes so I was really looking forward to reading this book and it didn’t disappoint. At only 288 pages it made for a quick, easy and enjoyable read!
I can’t wait to read more from this author and will be eagerly awaiting the next instalment of this series!
With thanks to Myka Bound for the digital ARC copy of this book to read and enjoy in exchange for an honest review.
"Fucking Emerson Bradach. I should have known I'd never truly escape him"
PLOT: Over a century ago 158-year-old 'mortal' witch, Senna, faked her death to escape her love and dangerous demon, Emerson Bradach. With nothing but the clothes on her back, and at great cost to herself and her heart, she ran like her life depended on it. Now though, all these years later, she has healed but she still yearns for him like it was yesterday. Scars left by love can never truly heal. So instead, she wears them like armour, drawing strength from them and using them to protect herself and her heart from any further hurt or harm. She has accomplished a lot over the many years that have passed. She now uses her power and experience for good. Working to protect her world and all who live in it against rogue paranormal and magical threats. Her latest mission poses a huge threat to her city, one that needs to be taken out swiftly and carefully. However, whilst Senna is out hunting the power-hungry witch causing the threat, she becomes the hunted herself. Emerson Bradach has found her again. And this time he’s not letting her go without a fight.
I enjoyed reading this book. I really liked the plot and even more so that there was lots of it. I loved Myka’s world building, attention to detail and the way she really brings her characters to life. You can’t help but love them and find yourself wanting to see them succeed in all they encounter. I liked the relationship between Senna and Emerson. The battle between her head and her heart was raw and full of feeling. Emerson is the possessive ‘you’re mine’ type MMC but I loved that Senna as the FMC had a strength of her own that made her fight back. The few moments of spice between them were consensual and rough with pain, pleasure and sub/dom roles being the main themes. I thought these scenes were really tastefully written and added to the story rather than taking over. My only negative…..the huge cliffhanger ending that has left me needing more!!
I would definitely recommend this book. If you love fantasy romance that has more plot than spice then this is one for you! I love anything with demon, witchy and magic vibes so I was really looking forward to reading this book and it didn’t disappoint. At only 288 pages it made for a quick, easy and enjoyable read!
I can’t wait to read more from this author and will be eagerly awaiting the next instalment of this series!
With thanks to Myka Bound for the digital ARC copy of this book to read and enjoy in exchange for an honest review.
May 13, 2025
I finished my ARC of this LATEEE last night because I honestly could not put it down. I read the entire book in one sitting because the plot points kind of roped me in. So here are my thoughts!!
It was incredibly fast paced and exciting! There was not a dull moment in the entire book. It was immersive and truly kept me on my toes with my brain whirling the entire time. The characters are flawed but in a positive way, making them more lovable and humanizing them in a way that helps the reader relate to their decisions. The spice was decent and did not overpower the storyline too much.
This book has a modern outlook on fantasy that is done in a cool and almost vague way which doesn’t take away from the storyline itself. The world building was benefited massively by this decision because any backstory and environment/storyline description was not confusing or overwhelming. It helped to further the plot and move the reader along in their understanding.
It was incredibly fast paced and exciting! There was not a dull moment in the entire book. It was immersive and truly kept me on my toes with my brain whirling the entire time. The characters are flawed but in a positive way, making them more lovable and humanizing them in a way that helps the reader relate to their decisions. The spice was decent and did not overpower the storyline too much.
This book has a modern outlook on fantasy that is done in a cool and almost vague way which doesn’t take away from the storyline itself. The world building was benefited massively by this decision because any backstory and environment/storyline description was not confusing or overwhelming. It helped to further the plot and move the reader along in their understanding.
March 14, 2025
Thank you first and foremost to the author for letting me be an ARC reader!
Overall rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶/5
Where to start? When I saw the chance to be an ARC reader for this book I was really excited because most of the other books I've read as ARC's have been young adult/teen so I was pumped to read a book where the characters were older! I wasn't necessarily expecting hundreds/thousands of years older, but hey I'll take it!
Things I loved:
- the quick pace of the book! The only 2 times I put it down were because I had to go to bed. Otherwise, this book was paced so well, and it made reading it a breeze.
- I felt that transitions between chapters was really smooth!
- while the book was fast paced, you were still given the right amount of information you'd need to read at such a quick pace. Which is great! Sometimes there's a disconnect in information given about the story/characters and the pace of the story, but honestly I felt like it was done really well here.
- there's nothing better than loving the main character. She was tough and strong and capable, she wasn't a damsel in distress type, she was a get things done and keep fighting type, which I LOVE.
- genuinely I'm looking forward to seeing her relationship with Emmerson develop? There's so much history and hurt between then and I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see what will become of them.
- speaking ot Emmerson, just as a general vibe, he had big Hades energy. Hades energy in the way that Hades lives Persephone and would do literally anything for her, and Emmerson just has that vibe, especially with how his story with Senna goes and how they reconnected.
- I loved the overall concept honestly, I'm a sucker for paranormal/magical organizations that work to keep the "mundanes" safe from the Shadows.
Things that weren't my fav:
- ⚠️ spoiler ⚠️ that one scene when Senna is knocked put from her magic but phantom Emmerson is doing things to her? She's conscious mentally, but she physically can't do anything or give the okay or fight it, and just to me personally it felt icky. Seeing how things developed later and how that happened, I was ultimately fine with movijg past it, but it felt uncomfy for a minute there.
- cliffhanger! Was I warned it ended om a cliffhanger? Yes obviously, but sheesh I didn't think it'd be that devastating to not immediate have the next book!! (This is in a joking tone, I love the anticipation clif hangers bring)
- Last thing, I know the focus was Megan, but I wish we got just a few more details about Phineas and what his deal is.
All in all, I really liked this book. I thought it was a fun read, and I look forward to reading the rest of these books and more of the story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶/5
Overall rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶/5
Where to start? When I saw the chance to be an ARC reader for this book I was really excited because most of the other books I've read as ARC's have been young adult/teen so I was pumped to read a book where the characters were older! I wasn't necessarily expecting hundreds/thousands of years older, but hey I'll take it!
Things I loved:
- the quick pace of the book! The only 2 times I put it down were because I had to go to bed. Otherwise, this book was paced so well, and it made reading it a breeze.
- I felt that transitions between chapters was really smooth!
- while the book was fast paced, you were still given the right amount of information you'd need to read at such a quick pace. Which is great! Sometimes there's a disconnect in information given about the story/characters and the pace of the story, but honestly I felt like it was done really well here.
- there's nothing better than loving the main character. She was tough and strong and capable, she wasn't a damsel in distress type, she was a get things done and keep fighting type, which I LOVE.
- genuinely I'm looking forward to seeing her relationship with Emmerson develop? There's so much history and hurt between then and I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see what will become of them.
- speaking ot Emmerson, just as a general vibe, he had big Hades energy. Hades energy in the way that Hades lives Persephone and would do literally anything for her, and Emmerson just has that vibe, especially with how his story with Senna goes and how they reconnected.
- I loved the overall concept honestly, I'm a sucker for paranormal/magical organizations that work to keep the "mundanes" safe from the Shadows.
Things that weren't my fav:
- ⚠️ spoiler ⚠️ that one scene when Senna is knocked put from her magic but phantom Emmerson is doing things to her? She's conscious mentally, but she physically can't do anything or give the okay or fight it, and just to me personally it felt icky. Seeing how things developed later and how that happened, I was ultimately fine with movijg past it, but it felt uncomfy for a minute there.
- cliffhanger! Was I warned it ended om a cliffhanger? Yes obviously, but sheesh I didn't think it'd be that devastating to not immediate have the next book!! (This is in a joking tone, I love the anticipation clif hangers bring)
- Last thing, I know the focus was Megan, but I wish we got just a few more details about Phineas and what his deal is.
All in all, I really liked this book. I thought it was a fun read, and I look forward to reading the rest of these books and more of the story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2025
Well well well, Myka Bound, you wicked woman. Are you KIDDING ME?! I loved this book. I didn’t have any expectations going into it, but I am STOKED that I got to be on Myka’s ARC team and get my greedy hands on this book before anyone else did 🙌🏻🙌🏻
Fair warning though, this book leaves us on a pretty good cliff hanger. Myka really knows how to make you dream about the next book in the series 😭🤣
Five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will absolutely re-read this baby before the next book comes out to relive this beauty of a story.
This was my first read from this author and wow, what a read it was. This book has some of the best tropes, and I am here 👏🏻 for 👏🏻 it 👏🏻
Bad ass witch MFC✔️
Sexy possessive demon MMC✔️
Second chance / enemies to lovers ✔️
Ancient magic ✔️
Found family ✔️
I’m gonna try to sum this up without giving away spoilers!
Senna is a very old witch who essentially gave up her old life to escape Emerson, one of the most powerful demons in existence. She created a new life for herself, and dedicated her new found freedom to saving her city. While out scouting for a dangerous mission, Emerson finds her again, and refuses to let her go. Senna and Emerson must work together to defeat the power-hungry which Senna is after. The only issue is, how can Senna work with the demon she promised herself never to trust again?
I’ve gotta say, Senna is a bad ass!!! 158 years old, and spent the last 130 years honing her skills and focusing her powers. She is TOUGH and takes crap from nobody. I love a strong MFC, so I just really love Senna!
Emerson, well, he’s definitely the newest addition to my Shadow Daddy Book Boyfriend list. Oof 🥵🥵🥵🥵 strong af, immortal, possessive, and all of the other fine things I obsess over 😈 Give me moreeeee, I’m such a ho for a possessive shadow daddy and he did not disappoint.
The plot in this book was so good!! I love a good unique story line, and honestly the witches and demons and shifters and all the other fun stuff this book had in it has me in a bit of a chokehold. Once I got started, I didn’t want to stop reading *cue me whining every time I had to stop reading when I was busy over the weekend*
The spice was also super yummy! It wasn’t overly spicy to the point where it ruined any of the plot; the spicy scenes were delicately woven in and made perfect sense where they were in the story line.
Some of my favorite quotes because I can’t help but share and entice everyone to read this 😈
“Careful, Senna. You know I like to play rough.” 🥵
“He tasted the same. Like over a century hadn’t passed since we’d shared a bed. Just like he’d tasted in every lucid dream I’d had about him since. Like home” 😭
“That was just a hello. Fu**ing you senseless will take days. Weeks.” 😮💨😮💨😮💨
“A tree doesn’t choose the shadows. It grows in darkness because it can do nothing else.” 🥹
“Forget being a demon. This man was the devil incarnate.” 😈
“Forgive me.” 🥺😩😭
Just do yourself a favor - if you love good plot, magic, yummy spice, a good dramatic ending, and all of the good things in a delicious Romantasy book - read this.
Fair warning though, this book leaves us on a pretty good cliff hanger. Myka really knows how to make you dream about the next book in the series 😭🤣
Five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Will absolutely re-read this baby before the next book comes out to relive this beauty of a story.
This was my first read from this author and wow, what a read it was. This book has some of the best tropes, and I am here 👏🏻 for 👏🏻 it 👏🏻
Bad ass witch MFC✔️
Sexy possessive demon MMC✔️
Second chance / enemies to lovers ✔️
Ancient magic ✔️
Found family ✔️
I’m gonna try to sum this up without giving away spoilers!
Senna is a very old witch who essentially gave up her old life to escape Emerson, one of the most powerful demons in existence. She created a new life for herself, and dedicated her new found freedom to saving her city. While out scouting for a dangerous mission, Emerson finds her again, and refuses to let her go. Senna and Emerson must work together to defeat the power-hungry which Senna is after. The only issue is, how can Senna work with the demon she promised herself never to trust again?
I’ve gotta say, Senna is a bad ass!!! 158 years old, and spent the last 130 years honing her skills and focusing her powers. She is TOUGH and takes crap from nobody. I love a strong MFC, so I just really love Senna!
Emerson, well, he’s definitely the newest addition to my Shadow Daddy Book Boyfriend list. Oof 🥵🥵🥵🥵 strong af, immortal, possessive, and all of the other fine things I obsess over 😈 Give me moreeeee, I’m such a ho for a possessive shadow daddy and he did not disappoint.
The plot in this book was so good!! I love a good unique story line, and honestly the witches and demons and shifters and all the other fun stuff this book had in it has me in a bit of a chokehold. Once I got started, I didn’t want to stop reading *cue me whining every time I had to stop reading when I was busy over the weekend*
The spice was also super yummy! It wasn’t overly spicy to the point where it ruined any of the plot; the spicy scenes were delicately woven in and made perfect sense where they were in the story line.
Some of my favorite quotes because I can’t help but share and entice everyone to read this 😈
“Careful, Senna. You know I like to play rough.” 🥵
“He tasted the same. Like over a century hadn’t passed since we’d shared a bed. Just like he’d tasted in every lucid dream I’d had about him since. Like home” 😭
“That was just a hello. Fu**ing you senseless will take days. Weeks.” 😮💨😮💨😮💨
“A tree doesn’t choose the shadows. It grows in darkness because it can do nothing else.” 🥹
“Forget being a demon. This man was the devil incarnate.” 😈
“Forgive me.” 🥺😩😭
Just do yourself a favor - if you love good plot, magic, yummy spice, a good dramatic ending, and all of the good things in a delicious Romantasy book - read this.
March 13, 2025
Myka Bound's 'Cast of Shadow' is a romance fantasy story that is masterfully written full of excitement, danger, spice and cliff hangers.
From chapter 1, this author hooks you in, in the centre of a hunt for a rouge and cruel mystical woman, the plot is mindfully paced, with a perfect balance of character development and scene setting.
Main character, Senna a strong willed, caring fierce witch is the CEO of a company ‘Lexa’ which essentially is a policing company on the hunt for unlawful, deadly supernatural kinds. On the hunt from this rouge witch who is killing coven’s Senna finds herself crossing paths of a similar company and the head of their game is an ex-lover Emerson.
Senna is caught in the spell of her ex-lover, Emerson, who you find is sexy, possessive and dangerous to Senna, someone she has escaped from for over a century but is now trapped by his aura again.
The author’s depth of the characters throughout is unmatched, Lexa’s team are more of a chosen family to Senna, long to find justice for the supernatural but at what cost?
I was honoured to have this opportunity as this author’s ARC read team. 4.5 stars.
From chapter 1, this author hooks you in, in the centre of a hunt for a rouge and cruel mystical woman, the plot is mindfully paced, with a perfect balance of character development and scene setting.
Main character, Senna a strong willed, caring fierce witch is the CEO of a company ‘Lexa’ which essentially is a policing company on the hunt for unlawful, deadly supernatural kinds. On the hunt from this rouge witch who is killing coven’s Senna finds herself crossing paths of a similar company and the head of their game is an ex-lover Emerson.
Senna is caught in the spell of her ex-lover, Emerson, who you find is sexy, possessive and dangerous to Senna, someone she has escaped from for over a century but is now trapped by his aura again.
The author’s depth of the characters throughout is unmatched, Lexa’s team are more of a chosen family to Senna, long to find justice for the supernatural but at what cost?
I was honoured to have this opportunity as this author’s ARC read team. 4.5 stars.
March 9, 2025
This is my first book from the author and I’m so happy I got the chance to read it as part of their arc team. The storytelling and the characters instantly capture your attention and the author had a way to guide you through the emotions they felt. You’ll fall in love with the characters and with the ending, you’ll want more of them and more of the story.
March 13, 2025
Omg! I absolutely loved this book! The emotional roller coaster it put me on i absolutely loved!!!! I’m already ready for book two!
March 10, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book but the opinions are 💯 my own. New author to me so went in with a blank slate having read only the brief synopsis of the tropes contained therein. Demons, witches, magical realms, found family, scorned lovers, secret agencies. It’s got a little bit of everything! ❤️🔥 Ladies, meet your new shadow daddy…. Emerson Bradach🖤 Definitely a series you’re going to want to add to your TBR ✅ – I know I will be waiting for the next with bated breath.
I laughed. I gasped. I put my hand over my gaping mouth. I rolled my eyes. I looked up from my book imagining the looks given between characters. I even audibly read some of the dialogue to make it real… and yeah the “awwwww” came out. Y'all, I was even brought to tears. Wow. This was definitely more than I’d expected and I was so pleasantly surprised.
⚠️POTENTIAL PLOT SPOILERS⚠️
We are introduced to Senna, a witch who had been running from her past for well over a century. A past wrapped up in a demon she fell in love with. Feeling broken, betrayed and lost, she escaped that life and rebuilt her world from scratch, honing her magic and recreating herself into a formidable enchantress with the mental fortitude to literally block out the past and focus solely on her work. Work that includes a chosen group of allies that are truly more than just her employees – they’re her found family. Oh, and there's one shifter who certainly is giving off some angsty, over-protective, jealous, hidden love vibes.
Senna has created this company called Lexa that functions as sort of an FBI of supernatural entities to keep things in check. They have some pretty gnarly missions with some tense situations. Personally, I would love to see some of these play out on a screen. It would be quite riveting especially with scenes like –open comms with a team in distress, shifters, the energy and aura of an alpha, capturing of the pure essence of magic… it’s all so…damn…good. Senna has a command presence but we are also made well aware of her humanity and fragility. She is such a strong FMC. I love her!
Anyway, the activity of Senna’s company has drawn the attention of another supernatural policing system called The Brethren (which Emerson happens to be a part of. Damn the luck – for her, not us, because he’s definitely the shadow daddy you want and need.) So now he’s thrust back into her orbit looking for answers of his own and let’s just say they definitely didn’t forget each other. 🌶️🌶️
With Emerson once again in the picture, Senna’s going to have to face her past and get answers to the unfinished chapter of her life. This also means allowing herself to be vulnerable to those who haven’t seen or known just how broken she had become. She’ll let her inner circle– and even Emerson– access behind the fortress she’d erected around her mind and her heart. She’ll have to trust them with her secrets including the source of her power and even her age as tackles this next mission – taking down a rogue witch who is dancing with the devil. I got some serious dementor vibes from her in one chapter. CREEPY!
It seems everything Senna’s been running from is actually everything she needs to tackle the current situation… trust, wit, magic, oh, and her sexy, possessive demon. The logistics for this pairing couldn’t be worse – she doesn’t want to need his help let alone to become ensnared into the web of his world yet again. Can she REALLY trust him? It doesn't matter does it because this mission requires every bit of skill, power and cooperation between the two organizations.
Yet, there’s some kind of bond she and Emerson share that neither can deny. I'm hoping that they are some kind of magical fated mates because they share an insatiable hunger that can’t be satisfied. An emptiness and longing that has transcended magical realms for more than a century. Being scared to trust yourself to take that leap knowing that falling again would unravel every bit of sanity she’s holding onto. She can't do it again. I mean, CAN you trust a demon?
This is a series so this book OBVIOUSLY ends on a cliffhanger⛰️. And therein lies my ONLY critique of the whole book --- I wanted the book to end when she made her choice and not where it did. I was GUTTED at that moment and knew that was the perfect place to cut the story. I was actually expecting the book to end. The additional chapter felt more like an epilogue. But wow... the ending still... intense!
When you read this you’ll see what I’m talking about… and read this… YOU MOST DEFINITELY SHOULD!
Intense, gritty, provocative, magical... I LOVED IT!
===========
What I loved:
💖 Dark, broody, dominant MMC that oozes sex appeal 💪🏼
💖 Touch her and die
💖 the chase scene
💖 Strong FMC
💖 protective mama bear nature
SPICE LEVEL: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
FAVORITE QUOTES:
🥰 I could feel it in my blood, a subtle shift in the air like the world was coming alive on a primal level.
🥰 “Forgive me,” he whispered, and my world went black.
🥰 He smelled just like he used to, like trouble and heartbreak wrapped up in a smokey musk that made me yearn for a past that was as dead as I was supposed to be.
🥰 He looked like exactly what he was – a demon riding the edge of control.
🥰 It was the most conflicted torture I’d ever experienced.
🥰 “You’re mine, Sai. And you always will be.”
🥰 “I’m not the same woman I was, but I’m still me,” I said quietly. “All I did was level the playing field a bit.”
🥰 No one ever got a happy ending. Not really. The people you cherished would leave you, or die on you, or betray you in some way that would break your heart. And even if you were lucky enough to leave this world before your loved ones, you would be the one doing the breaking. Happy endings didn’t exist.
🥰 “You always had a choice.” “Not with you.”
🥰 “You’re playing with fire, Sai.”
🥰 His love was scorched earth. He would never stop coming for me, and he would burn anyone or anything that got in his way.
🥰 Forget being a demon. This man was the devil incarnate.
I laughed. I gasped. I put my hand over my gaping mouth. I rolled my eyes. I looked up from my book imagining the looks given between characters. I even audibly read some of the dialogue to make it real… and yeah the “awwwww” came out. Y'all, I was even brought to tears. Wow. This was definitely more than I’d expected and I was so pleasantly surprised.
⚠️POTENTIAL PLOT SPOILERS⚠️
We are introduced to Senna, a witch who had been running from her past for well over a century. A past wrapped up in a demon she fell in love with. Feeling broken, betrayed and lost, she escaped that life and rebuilt her world from scratch, honing her magic and recreating herself into a formidable enchantress with the mental fortitude to literally block out the past and focus solely on her work. Work that includes a chosen group of allies that are truly more than just her employees – they’re her found family. Oh, and there's one shifter who certainly is giving off some angsty, over-protective, jealous, hidden love vibes.
Senna has created this company called Lexa that functions as sort of an FBI of supernatural entities to keep things in check. They have some pretty gnarly missions with some tense situations. Personally, I would love to see some of these play out on a screen. It would be quite riveting especially with scenes like –open comms with a team in distress, shifters, the energy and aura of an alpha, capturing of the pure essence of magic… it’s all so…damn…good. Senna has a command presence but we are also made well aware of her humanity and fragility. She is such a strong FMC. I love her!
Anyway, the activity of Senna’s company has drawn the attention of another supernatural policing system called The Brethren (which Emerson happens to be a part of. Damn the luck – for her, not us, because he’s definitely the shadow daddy you want and need.) So now he’s thrust back into her orbit looking for answers of his own and let’s just say they definitely didn’t forget each other. 🌶️🌶️
With Emerson once again in the picture, Senna’s going to have to face her past and get answers to the unfinished chapter of her life. This also means allowing herself to be vulnerable to those who haven’t seen or known just how broken she had become. She’ll let her inner circle– and even Emerson– access behind the fortress she’d erected around her mind and her heart. She’ll have to trust them with her secrets including the source of her power and even her age as tackles this next mission – taking down a rogue witch who is dancing with the devil. I got some serious dementor vibes from her in one chapter. CREEPY!
It seems everything Senna’s been running from is actually everything she needs to tackle the current situation… trust, wit, magic, oh, and her sexy, possessive demon. The logistics for this pairing couldn’t be worse – she doesn’t want to need his help let alone to become ensnared into the web of his world yet again. Can she REALLY trust him? It doesn't matter does it because this mission requires every bit of skill, power and cooperation between the two organizations.
Yet, there’s some kind of bond she and Emerson share that neither can deny. I'm hoping that they are some kind of magical fated mates because they share an insatiable hunger that can’t be satisfied. An emptiness and longing that has transcended magical realms for more than a century. Being scared to trust yourself to take that leap knowing that falling again would unravel every bit of sanity she’s holding onto. She can't do it again. I mean, CAN you trust a demon?
This is a series so this book OBVIOUSLY ends on a cliffhanger⛰️. And therein lies my ONLY critique of the whole book --- I wanted the book to end when she made her choice and not where it did. I was GUTTED at that moment and knew that was the perfect place to cut the story. I was actually expecting the book to end. The additional chapter felt more like an epilogue. But wow... the ending still... intense!
When you read this you’ll see what I’m talking about… and read this… YOU MOST DEFINITELY SHOULD!
Intense, gritty, provocative, magical... I LOVED IT!
===========
What I loved:
💖 Dark, broody, dominant MMC that oozes sex appeal 💪🏼
💖 Touch her and die
💖 the chase scene
💖 Strong FMC
💖 protective mama bear nature
SPICE LEVEL: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
FAVORITE QUOTES:
🥰 I could feel it in my blood, a subtle shift in the air like the world was coming alive on a primal level.
🥰 “Forgive me,” he whispered, and my world went black.
🥰 He smelled just like he used to, like trouble and heartbreak wrapped up in a smokey musk that made me yearn for a past that was as dead as I was supposed to be.
🥰 He looked like exactly what he was – a demon riding the edge of control.
🥰 It was the most conflicted torture I’d ever experienced.
🥰 “You’re mine, Sai. And you always will be.”
🥰 “I’m not the same woman I was, but I’m still me,” I said quietly. “All I did was level the playing field a bit.”
🥰 No one ever got a happy ending. Not really. The people you cherished would leave you, or die on you, or betray you in some way that would break your heart. And even if you were lucky enough to leave this world before your loved ones, you would be the one doing the breaking. Happy endings didn’t exist.
🥰 “You always had a choice.” “Not with you.”
🥰 “You’re playing with fire, Sai.”
🥰 His love was scorched earth. He would never stop coming for me, and he would burn anyone or anything that got in his way.
🥰 Forget being a demon. This man was the devil incarnate.
March 24, 2025
Myka Bound has a way of weaving a story together and bringing you right to the edge.
We are introduced to Senna who is on a mission. It is established that she is a witch and lead of a corporation called lexa which is a group of individuals who oversee the supernatural and ensure safety of the human world.
Likewise, it is established that her ex lover Emerson is a demon who likewise is part of an establishment that overseas the supernatural. Their worlds are brought together when a common interest peaks - a witch who has gone dark. This mission forces them to reminisce on their past, but also look towards their future. They must choose to work together in order to bring down this witch. There are a lot of emotions at play and decisions have to be made.
Reader, beware it ends in a cliffhanger … but it’s worth it.
We are introduced to Senna who is on a mission. It is established that she is a witch and lead of a corporation called lexa which is a group of individuals who oversee the supernatural and ensure safety of the human world.
Likewise, it is established that her ex lover Emerson is a demon who likewise is part of an establishment that overseas the supernatural. Their worlds are brought together when a common interest peaks - a witch who has gone dark. This mission forces them to reminisce on their past, but also look towards their future. They must choose to work together in order to bring down this witch. There are a lot of emotions at play and decisions have to be made.
Reader, beware it ends in a cliffhanger … but it’s worth it.
March 20, 2025
ARC Cast in Shadow by Myka Bound
“He was the worst kind of trouble. The kind that left me twisted up inside long after I’d fled from him.”
Quick Review:
⭐️4/5 stars– Because I’m obsessed with the push-and-pull between Senna and Emerson. The chemistry? Toxic in the best way. The world-building? Rich and dangerous. The mystery? Kept me flipping pages way past bedtime. I will be re-reading this one for sure!
🌶️ 3/5 Spice Rating – This book is more about tension than steam IMO and the tension? Through the freaking roof. Emerson has big alpha energy, and Senna is not having it (except when she totally is). The few heated moments are 🔥 but don’t expect full-blown smut on every page - this is more tease and torment than open-door page after page.
🖤3/5 Darkness Rating – Oh, this book is dark. We’ve got power imbalances, betrayal, demons who don’t play fair, and one scene where things get… questionable (readers who need clear consent might side-eye this). It’s not quite full grimdark, but it definitely flirts with the shadows. Check trigger warnings when reading any dark book- your mental health matters.
⸻
What I Loved:
I lived for the slow-burn torture. The tension? Absolutely lethal. Every stolen glance, every almost-touch, every I hate you but also maybe want to ruin you moment had me feral. Senna is a total queen—strong, independent, and fully done with Emerson’s bullsh*t… except, of course, she’s not. And Emerson? A walking red flag in the best way—tall, dark, powerful, and the kind of temptation that should be avoided but never is. The world-building had me hooked—magic, supernatural power plays, and a realm one bad decision away from chaos. And the drama? Flawless. Betrayal, unresolved feelings, and just the right amount of emotional damage to make me scream into my pillow.
⸻
The Story (No Spoilers!):
Senna rebuilt her life after Emerson shattered it. She’s powerful, independent, and living in peace (or as much peace as you can get when you’re hunting rogue witches). But then he shows up—Emerson, the man who broke her heart and left her for dead (literally). Now, they’re forced to work together, and between the lingering feelings, sizzling chemistry, and the whole “we might have to kill each other” thing, things get very complicated.
⸻
Final Thoughts:
This is absolutely for the dark paranormal romance lovers, with second-chance betrayal and enemies-to-lovers vibes. It’s intense, messy, and so freaking addictive. Just know—this book doesn’t wrap everything up neatly, and you’ll probably be screaming for book two when you hit the last page.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review. And now I need therapy.
“He was the worst kind of trouble. The kind that left me twisted up inside long after I’d fled from him.”
Quick Review:
⭐️4/5 stars– Because I’m obsessed with the push-and-pull between Senna and Emerson. The chemistry? Toxic in the best way. The world-building? Rich and dangerous. The mystery? Kept me flipping pages way past bedtime. I will be re-reading this one for sure!
🌶️ 3/5 Spice Rating – This book is more about tension than steam IMO and the tension? Through the freaking roof. Emerson has big alpha energy, and Senna is not having it (except when she totally is). The few heated moments are 🔥 but don’t expect full-blown smut on every page - this is more tease and torment than open-door page after page.
🖤3/5 Darkness Rating – Oh, this book is dark. We’ve got power imbalances, betrayal, demons who don’t play fair, and one scene where things get… questionable (readers who need clear consent might side-eye this). It’s not quite full grimdark, but it definitely flirts with the shadows. Check trigger warnings when reading any dark book- your mental health matters.
⸻
What I Loved:
I lived for the slow-burn torture. The tension? Absolutely lethal. Every stolen glance, every almost-touch, every I hate you but also maybe want to ruin you moment had me feral. Senna is a total queen—strong, independent, and fully done with Emerson’s bullsh*t… except, of course, she’s not. And Emerson? A walking red flag in the best way—tall, dark, powerful, and the kind of temptation that should be avoided but never is. The world-building had me hooked—magic, supernatural power plays, and a realm one bad decision away from chaos. And the drama? Flawless. Betrayal, unresolved feelings, and just the right amount of emotional damage to make me scream into my pillow.
⸻
The Story (No Spoilers!):
Senna rebuilt her life after Emerson shattered it. She’s powerful, independent, and living in peace (or as much peace as you can get when you’re hunting rogue witches). But then he shows up—Emerson, the man who broke her heart and left her for dead (literally). Now, they’re forced to work together, and between the lingering feelings, sizzling chemistry, and the whole “we might have to kill each other” thing, things get very complicated.
⸻
Final Thoughts:
This is absolutely for the dark paranormal romance lovers, with second-chance betrayal and enemies-to-lovers vibes. It’s intense, messy, and so freaking addictive. Just know—this book doesn’t wrap everything up neatly, and you’ll probably be screaming for book two when you hit the last page.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review. And now I need therapy.
Read
March 16, 2025⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Star Rating
Multi First Person POV (Senna & Emerson)
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Age Rating: 18+
🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 🖤
First of all, oh my god! As a first time read from the author, I absolutely devoured this book. She combined a lot of my favorite tropes in this paranormal, dark fantasy novel and I could not put it down once I started. The spice was 🔥🔥🔥 and perfectly placed throughout the book. The cliffhanger at the end pulls you into wanting the next book in the series immediately because this first book had me in a chokehold.
🖤 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽 🖤
Senna is a very old witch who has given up everything, even faked her death, to escape the wrath of Emerson, an extremely dangerous and powerful demon. She starts a new life with a new identity, finally find a sign of peace. But when he goes out on a deadly mission, he comes across her, wanting to make sure she never leaves his side again. The plot is so good. The spice was hot. The chemistry between Senna and Emerson was hot and I can’t wait to see what book two is going to have in store.
🖤 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 🖤
Senna is a badass witch! She spent a lot of her life perfecting her magic and skills. I love that she had that sassy attitude that she doesn’t take shit from no one. It gave her more character. Emerson is my newest addition to my list of shadow daddies because he was divine. Their banter and overall chemistry is what made the book one of my favorites for the year.
🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 🖤
🖤 second chance
🖤 shadow daddy
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 found family
🖤 demons/witches
🖤 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓬𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷 🖤
If you’re in the mood for a spicy fantasy romance with more plot than spice, I would highly recommend you check this one out. It’s got the demon and witchy vibes, combined with magic and spice that will draw you into its pages until the end. Then you get hit with the cliffhanger that has you anticipating for more!! I can’t wait for book two in the series!
Multi First Person POV (Senna & Emerson)
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
Age Rating: 18+
🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 🖤
First of all, oh my god! As a first time read from the author, I absolutely devoured this book. She combined a lot of my favorite tropes in this paranormal, dark fantasy novel and I could not put it down once I started. The spice was 🔥🔥🔥 and perfectly placed throughout the book. The cliffhanger at the end pulls you into wanting the next book in the series immediately because this first book had me in a chokehold.
🖤 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽 🖤
Senna is a very old witch who has given up everything, even faked her death, to escape the wrath of Emerson, an extremely dangerous and powerful demon. She starts a new life with a new identity, finally find a sign of peace. But when he goes out on a deadly mission, he comes across her, wanting to make sure she never leaves his side again. The plot is so good. The spice was hot. The chemistry between Senna and Emerson was hot and I can’t wait to see what book two is going to have in store.
🖤 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 🖤
Senna is a badass witch! She spent a lot of her life perfecting her magic and skills. I love that she had that sassy attitude that she doesn’t take shit from no one. It gave her more character. Emerson is my newest addition to my list of shadow daddies because he was divine. Their banter and overall chemistry is what made the book one of my favorites for the year.
🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 🖤
🖤 second chance
🖤 shadow daddy
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 found family
🖤 demons/witches
🖤 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓬𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷 🖤
If you’re in the mood for a spicy fantasy romance with more plot than spice, I would highly recommend you check this one out. It’s got the demon and witchy vibes, combined with magic and spice that will draw you into its pages until the end. Then you get hit with the cliffhanger that has you anticipating for more!! I can’t wait for book two in the series!
March 9, 2025
🥰🥰🥰🥰
🌶️🌶️🌶️
My Review
Cast in Shadow is the first book in the Drenched in Darkness series by Myka Bound. This was the first book I have read from this author, and it did not disappoint.
Senna is a 158 year old witch who has been running from the demon she loves for over 130 years. Emerson is a demon as old as time who thought he lost the only being he has loved only to find she had faked her death.
In their time apart, Senna has grown to be a witch powerful enough to rival Emerson and has built a tactical company that specializes in stopping witches, demons, and shifters who don’t follow the rules. However, Senna and her company have attracted the attention of a group known as the Bretheren, powerful demons on Earth meant to act as protectors. Senna and Emerson’s worlds are thrown back together in a story that has all the drama, suspense, and magic you are looking for.
Myka Bound creates a world of both light and dark that captivates you right from the start. Senna and Emerson are two powerful characters that have to battle those around them, each other, and themselves. The cast of characters that make up Senna’s found family are loyal to Senna and would do anything to protect her. Senna’s love for her found family is a key element that gives this story its depth.
Cast in Shadows combines my love for magic, suspense, detective novels, enemies to lovers spice, and entertaining characters. I enjoyed reading this story and can’t wait to read book 2 (since cliff hangers are a real thing).
“I will hunt you to the end of this world and into the next.”
💜 Emerson 🔥 Happy Reading! 💜
🌶️🌶️🌶️
My Review
Cast in Shadow is the first book in the Drenched in Darkness series by Myka Bound. This was the first book I have read from this author, and it did not disappoint.
Senna is a 158 year old witch who has been running from the demon she loves for over 130 years. Emerson is a demon as old as time who thought he lost the only being he has loved only to find she had faked her death.
In their time apart, Senna has grown to be a witch powerful enough to rival Emerson and has built a tactical company that specializes in stopping witches, demons, and shifters who don’t follow the rules. However, Senna and her company have attracted the attention of a group known as the Bretheren, powerful demons on Earth meant to act as protectors. Senna and Emerson’s worlds are thrown back together in a story that has all the drama, suspense, and magic you are looking for.
Myka Bound creates a world of both light and dark that captivates you right from the start. Senna and Emerson are two powerful characters that have to battle those around them, each other, and themselves. The cast of characters that make up Senna’s found family are loyal to Senna and would do anything to protect her. Senna’s love for her found family is a key element that gives this story its depth.
Cast in Shadows combines my love for magic, suspense, detective novels, enemies to lovers spice, and entertaining characters. I enjoyed reading this story and can’t wait to read book 2 (since cliff hangers are a real thing).
“I will hunt you to the end of this world and into the next.”
💜 Emerson 🔥 Happy Reading! 💜
March 14, 2025
Once again I find myself itching to dock a star just out of sheer principle. How can authors sleep at night knowing they are leaving their loyal, supportive fans with a huge cliffhanger and no sequel release date in sight? 👀
Aside from the complete betrayal I’m feeling right now- I tore through this book. It felt so fresh and unique, especially amongst all the romantasies I have been reading lately. Once you read a solid 3,000 they all start to feel similar to each other.
Cast in Shadow has a very original magic system. I often found myself rereading parts to better understand. It’s a world full of all the creatures living amongst humans. Our MFC runs an underground organization that focuses on saving innocent humans and creatures, overall keeping the world safe. Our MMC seems to do the same but with a different organization who just so happens to be hunting said MFC and her people.
Then there is the romance. As a sucker for asshole males with control issues- y’all it had me swooning. If your man doesn’t search for you for 150 years then kidnap you once he finally finds you… girl, you deserve better. I really loved Senna and Emerson’s relationship and the way they were navigating their future together. The chemistry was there, the spice was definitely spicing and I have a feeling things may get even spicier in the next one 👀
Maybe Myka will make up for her completely uncalled for ending by gifting Emerson with a lot of new… tricks…. in his new life in book 2. #monsterpeen? 🤔🍆😉
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance 💖💖
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Darkness ☠️☠️
Thank you so much Myka Bound for this ARC in exchange for my honest review 💜🩷💜🩷
Aside from the complete betrayal I’m feeling right now- I tore through this book. It felt so fresh and unique, especially amongst all the romantasies I have been reading lately. Once you read a solid 3,000 they all start to feel similar to each other.
Cast in Shadow has a very original magic system. I often found myself rereading parts to better understand. It’s a world full of all the creatures living amongst humans. Our MFC runs an underground organization that focuses on saving innocent humans and creatures, overall keeping the world safe. Our MMC seems to do the same but with a different organization who just so happens to be hunting said MFC and her people.
Then there is the romance. As a sucker for asshole males with control issues- y’all it had me swooning. If your man doesn’t search for you for 150 years then kidnap you once he finally finds you… girl, you deserve better. I really loved Senna and Emerson’s relationship and the way they were navigating their future together. The chemistry was there, the spice was definitely spicing and I have a feeling things may get even spicier in the next one 👀
Maybe Myka will make up for her completely uncalled for ending by gifting Emerson with a lot of new… tricks…. in his new life in book 2. #monsterpeen? 🤔🍆😉
Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Romance 💖💖
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Darkness ☠️☠️
Thank you so much Myka Bound for this ARC in exchange for my honest review 💜🩷💜🩷
March 11, 2025
ARC BOOK REVIEW ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶4/5
With thanks to the author for access to this eARC.
Witches, shifters and demons live alongside humans in the modern world. Senna is a powerful witch heading up the Lexa organisation, taking on cases where magical creatures need help or are getting out of control. Emerson is a primordial demon, part of the Brethren, protectors of the earth realm. Senna and Emerson have a complicated history, but the Brethren have a grudge against Senna and believe she is working against them. The two organisations collide when a witch goes astray. Can they work together to bring down a joint enemy?
This was a new author for me, so I had no idea what to expect from this series, but it really grabbed me with it's laid back style, despite the fair amount of drama occurring. With all the banter, the high-tech equipment, the fantasy creatures, and the different organisations, it really reminded me of a grown-up up version of the Artemis Fowl books, which I loved as a kid! I loved that the shifters weren't just werewolves but other animals, and I would have liked to see more of the relationship between Senna and Nguyen the bear shifter. But by the end, I was rooting for Emerson, and that cliffhanger ending has me awaiting the sequel! The spice wasn't too heavy in this, but I did up it a level on the spiceometer because of the kink 😉
Themes
✨️Magic 🫂Found family 🧙Strong FMC
❤️🩹Second Chance Romance
🧑Dark Possessive MMC
With thanks to the author for access to this eARC.
Witches, shifters and demons live alongside humans in the modern world. Senna is a powerful witch heading up the Lexa organisation, taking on cases where magical creatures need help or are getting out of control. Emerson is a primordial demon, part of the Brethren, protectors of the earth realm. Senna and Emerson have a complicated history, but the Brethren have a grudge against Senna and believe she is working against them. The two organisations collide when a witch goes astray. Can they work together to bring down a joint enemy?
This was a new author for me, so I had no idea what to expect from this series, but it really grabbed me with it's laid back style, despite the fair amount of drama occurring. With all the banter, the high-tech equipment, the fantasy creatures, and the different organisations, it really reminded me of a grown-up up version of the Artemis Fowl books, which I loved as a kid! I loved that the shifters weren't just werewolves but other animals, and I would have liked to see more of the relationship between Senna and Nguyen the bear shifter. But by the end, I was rooting for Emerson, and that cliffhanger ending has me awaiting the sequel! The spice wasn't too heavy in this, but I did up it a level on the spiceometer because of the kink 😉
Themes
✨️Magic 🫂Found family 🧙Strong FMC
❤️🩹Second Chance Romance
🧑Dark Possessive MMC
March 15, 2025
Take my heart and send me to where Emerson is located! Please! 🙏
Starting Cast in Shadow, I wasn't 100% sure what I was going to come up against, but the beautifully crafted story that I got to be drawn into and experienced, it was an amazing adventure.
The characters, each with their distinctive personalities and the connections that they have, I love found family and heart deep feelings that follow. The literal emotional rollercoaster you experience throughout this story is something you won't soon forget!
I found myself with butterflies in my stomach, heart constricting, and blood pressure rising, taking a deep dive off a cliff with the dangerous, delicious tention between characters, especially Senna and Emerson, they keep your head and heart on the edge, waiting for that thing you want to happen.
I would also like to point out that I cried!! The portraial of the emotions between characters and the mental imagery that is crafted is magic.
Longing looks, desperate need to touch and feel, heart racing and possessive demon lovers, shout out to the paranormal romance, second-chance angsty, magical worlds and creatures within human land with demons who lurk amounst you, take a deep dive in and buckle up for the ride 😉
I was lucky enough to receive a free copy of this book to ARC read and am so thankful for the chance. I look forward to seeing where this will go, on the edge of my seat, and seeing how much more my poor heart can take! 💚
Starting Cast in Shadow, I wasn't 100% sure what I was going to come up against, but the beautifully crafted story that I got to be drawn into and experienced, it was an amazing adventure.
The characters, each with their distinctive personalities and the connections that they have, I love found family and heart deep feelings that follow. The literal emotional rollercoaster you experience throughout this story is something you won't soon forget!
I found myself with butterflies in my stomach, heart constricting, and blood pressure rising, taking a deep dive off a cliff with the dangerous, delicious tention between characters, especially Senna and Emerson, they keep your head and heart on the edge, waiting for that thing you want to happen.
I would also like to point out that I cried!! The portraial of the emotions between characters and the mental imagery that is crafted is magic.
Longing looks, desperate need to touch and feel, heart racing and possessive demon lovers, shout out to the paranormal romance, second-chance angsty, magical worlds and creatures within human land with demons who lurk amounst you, take a deep dive in and buckle up for the ride 😉
I was lucky enough to receive a free copy of this book to ARC read and am so thankful for the chance. I look forward to seeing where this will go, on the edge of my seat, and seeing how much more my poor heart can take! 💚
March 15, 2025
I loved how the book was straight into the action, not a preamble in sight! But rather cleverly you get Senna’s back story very early on which helped us understand her world and where she was coming from, especially regarding a certain sexy demon.
Senna’s is a strong FMC and her backstory is really interesting and I hope it is explored in further detail in the next book - I want more! 😉. It was great to see a more matured FMC, although how she wasn’t constantly muttering about the way her child continually ignored her, I’ll never know!
All the characters were likeable and I was rooting for them.
Really loved the LEXA set up - Supernaturals-esque hunting naughty supernaturals and giving them what for.
I always love a found family, and this was no exception. the story is told from Senna’s point of view, and because Senna is keeping people at arms length during this book, you don’t get to know the LEXA crew very well, so hoping these friendships develop more in book 2!
Emerson was suitable mysterious and sexy! The spice in the book is leaning towards the dom/sub trope and gets going almost right from the start! Really looking forward to seeing how their relationship plays out in the future.
I absolutely LOVED the fact that the very bad baddie was a woman! Nothing morally grey about this one!
All that’s left to say is that I read it in under 48hours! It was a page turner to end, and I’ll definitely be waiting with bated breath for the next book!
Senna’s is a strong FMC and her backstory is really interesting and I hope it is explored in further detail in the next book - I want more! 😉. It was great to see a more matured FMC, although how she wasn’t constantly muttering about the way her child continually ignored her, I’ll never know!
All the characters were likeable and I was rooting for them.
Really loved the LEXA set up - Supernaturals-esque hunting naughty supernaturals and giving them what for.
I always love a found family, and this was no exception. the story is told from Senna’s point of view, and because Senna is keeping people at arms length during this book, you don’t get to know the LEXA crew very well, so hoping these friendships develop more in book 2!
Emerson was suitable mysterious and sexy! The spice in the book is leaning towards the dom/sub trope and gets going almost right from the start! Really looking forward to seeing how their relationship plays out in the future.
I absolutely LOVED the fact that the very bad baddie was a woman! Nothing morally grey about this one!
All that’s left to say is that I read it in under 48hours! It was a page turner to end, and I’ll definitely be waiting with bated breath for the next book!
March 15, 2025
Rating: 4 / 5 ⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
Even when the world is reduced to stone and ash, my black heart will still belong to you.
I absolutely devoured this book.
I love Senna. It was incredibly refreshing to have a fmc who is strong, maternal and a full-fledged adult. Of course there is an intriguing morally gray mmc, Emerson. Broody, confident and determined to win her over – immediate yes. Their dynamic was incredibly steamy with a depth you don’t always see in this genre.
The worldbuilding was very well done. The magic system could have been explained more in depth or clearly but overall made sense. The way it was embedded into the modern world felt very natural as did the integration of technology.
I was immediately sucked into the book and figuring out was Senna was up to. Learning about the organization she’s involved in was really interesting and I enjoyed the subplots within it. The villain had an interesting backstory but I didn’t particularly dislike her. She was kind of “meh” to me and not someone hateable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read the next one when it comes out. Honestly, no matter what brand of fantasy romance you prefer, I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Myka Bound for this free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️
Even when the world is reduced to stone and ash, my black heart will still belong to you.
I absolutely devoured this book.
I love Senna. It was incredibly refreshing to have a fmc who is strong, maternal and a full-fledged adult. Of course there is an intriguing morally gray mmc, Emerson. Broody, confident and determined to win her over – immediate yes. Their dynamic was incredibly steamy with a depth you don’t always see in this genre.
The worldbuilding was very well done. The magic system could have been explained more in depth or clearly but overall made sense. The way it was embedded into the modern world felt very natural as did the integration of technology.
I was immediately sucked into the book and figuring out was Senna was up to. Learning about the organization she’s involved in was really interesting and I enjoyed the subplots within it. The villain had an interesting backstory but I didn’t particularly dislike her. She was kind of “meh” to me and not someone hateable.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read the next one when it comes out. Honestly, no matter what brand of fantasy romance you prefer, I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Myka Bound for this free ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 29, 2025
Please see below my honest review for Cast in Shadow by Myka Bound. I never get anything for these reviews other than the chance to read a good book!
Well this book was right up my alley! My two favourite genres are romantasy and thriller and this supernatural hot pocket was PERFECT! There was a lot going on that needed to be explained and the explanations were worth the wait!
Very brief summary: Senna, a powerful witch, runs an organization of supernatural agents and regular folk (think Criminal Minds meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer). She’s strong and in charge and sometimes her authority is questioned but as a leader, she makes the calls. Emerson, very powerful demon from her past, pops up during a mission, but I can tell you, it is not a level of heat you are prepared for when they meet.
Secrets are revealed, there is grudging respect, and teamwork. But the end. Not prepared…
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started Cast in Shadow, but this probably the fastest I have ever devoured a book. There are some physical/sexual triggers, and the reader should be aware of them. This a book that better be a long series, or I am going to be very sad and bored!! I definitely recommend this book if you like supernatural, romantasy, thriller, and rated R spice!
Well this book was right up my alley! My two favourite genres are romantasy and thriller and this supernatural hot pocket was PERFECT! There was a lot going on that needed to be explained and the explanations were worth the wait!
Very brief summary: Senna, a powerful witch, runs an organization of supernatural agents and regular folk (think Criminal Minds meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer). She’s strong and in charge and sometimes her authority is questioned but as a leader, she makes the calls. Emerson, very powerful demon from her past, pops up during a mission, but I can tell you, it is not a level of heat you are prepared for when they meet.
Secrets are revealed, there is grudging respect, and teamwork. But the end. Not prepared…
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started Cast in Shadow, but this probably the fastest I have ever devoured a book. There are some physical/sexual triggers, and the reader should be aware of them. This a book that better be a long series, or I am going to be very sad and bored!! I definitely recommend this book if you like supernatural, romantasy, thriller, and rated R spice!
March 17, 2025
Cast in Shadow is fast-paced urban fantasy with witches, demons, shifters, magic, found family, and supernatural-hunting task force. The setting of this book had Crescent City vibes. This book dives into the action from the beginning, and it doesn't really let up. It is short, fast-paced, and addicting!
The FMC, Senna, is such a great and well rounded character. She has some badassery, but she also has some humanity in her motherly relationship with her daughter-figure. She has experienced love, betrayal, near death, trauma, survival, and she came out of all of this so strong! I do love that she is not perfect and her flaws and trust issues are a big part of her character, but they are not all consuming. She is just awesome.
After being betrayed by her demon lover, Emerson, 130 years in the past, Senna faked her death and hid from him. Now, he has found her and they must work together to fight a witch who is growing too powerful and dangerous.
This book was so well written, and was a great blend of action, magic, and spice. The descriptions were not overdone while also making this book so easy so get immersed in. It does end on a cliffhanger, and I need the next book!
The FMC, Senna, is such a great and well rounded character. She has some badassery, but she also has some humanity in her motherly relationship with her daughter-figure. She has experienced love, betrayal, near death, trauma, survival, and she came out of all of this so strong! I do love that she is not perfect and her flaws and trust issues are a big part of her character, but they are not all consuming. She is just awesome.
After being betrayed by her demon lover, Emerson, 130 years in the past, Senna faked her death and hid from him. Now, he has found her and they must work together to fight a witch who is growing too powerful and dangerous.
This book was so well written, and was a great blend of action, magic, and spice. The descriptions were not overdone while also making this book so easy so get immersed in. It does end on a cliffhanger, and I need the next book!
March 14, 2025
loved this book!
I read this book in just a few hours. From start to finish I was hooked. Be warned this book does end on a cliffhanger but it’s so worth the read anyways!
Emerson is now one of my favorite demon MMCs, little (well big) po$$e$$ive shadow daddy vibes and I’m here for it!
And Senna, she is one of the most kickbottoms MFCs I’ve read in a while. A second chance da.rk romance, this story is for sure one because Emerson finally got her back and he is not letting her go.
I loved every second of this book. The world it takes place in is fantastically written; magic (both dark and ancient), demons, shifters, witches, secrets, and found family. Senna won’t let the power hungry witch take her city or hurt her people, she’s going to do everything she can to stop her, even if that means taking Emerson’s help.
I highly highly recommend this book! You will not regret reading this at all!
I read this book in just a few hours. From start to finish I was hooked. Be warned this book does end on a cliffhanger but it’s so worth the read anyways!
Emerson is now one of my favorite demon MMCs, little (well big) po$$e$$ive shadow daddy vibes and I’m here for it!
And Senna, she is one of the most kickbottoms MFCs I’ve read in a while. A second chance da.rk romance, this story is for sure one because Emerson finally got her back and he is not letting her go.
I loved every second of this book. The world it takes place in is fantastically written; magic (both dark and ancient), demons, shifters, witches, secrets, and found family. Senna won’t let the power hungry witch take her city or hurt her people, she’s going to do everything she can to stop her, even if that means taking Emerson’s help.
I highly highly recommend this book! You will not regret reading this at all!
March 15, 2025
What a cliffhanger!!😮
My first ARC read and it was a goodie!
I loved the modern technology, agent vibe mixed with witches and demons! I haven't read anything that blends this so well before for me personally!
I loved the relationship between Senna and Shay. They share a bond like no other and it was just lovely to read!
Usually the morally grey characters can do no wrong in my eyes but I wasn't entirely sold on Emerson in the beginning (the car scene where he pushes Senna to reveal secrets she didn't want to, not ok Emmerson!) But he redeemed himself big time and the ending had me cheering Senna on, go get your man gurl! It would seem, second chance romance is a new favourite trope of mine after reading this!
There is a little bit of spice and the book ends on a fast paced cliffhanger which I really enjoyed. I'm just sad I don't know why happens next! I'll defo be waiting patiently for book 2!
My first ARC read and it was a goodie!
I loved the modern technology, agent vibe mixed with witches and demons! I haven't read anything that blends this so well before for me personally!
I loved the relationship between Senna and Shay. They share a bond like no other and it was just lovely to read!
Usually the morally grey characters can do no wrong in my eyes but I wasn't entirely sold on Emerson in the beginning (the car scene where he pushes Senna to reveal secrets she didn't want to, not ok Emmerson!) But he redeemed himself big time and the ending had me cheering Senna on, go get your man gurl! It would seem, second chance romance is a new favourite trope of mine after reading this!
There is a little bit of spice and the book ends on a fast paced cliffhanger which I really enjoyed. I'm just sad I don't know why happens next! I'll defo be waiting patiently for book 2!
March 27, 2025
This book pulled me in from the very first chapter at full speed and did not let up! When I tell you I ate this book up, I’m not kidding! I read it in 1 sitting! Even though the book was fast paced you were given all the necessary information & backstory without being left in a lurch or questioning what was happening & why! I absolutely loved the characters! Nguyen has a place in my heart… I love his grumpy overprotective vibe! And Emerson…. He is definitely shadow daddy material! The book was spicy in all the right places & it wasn’t overbearing to the story at all! THAT CLIFFHANGER THOUGH! I need book 2 like yesterday!
Favorite Quotes:
- “I have been starving for you for over a century. Carrying a need that has consumed me ten-thousand times over. One taste of you will never be enough to quell that hunger.”
- “A tree doesn’t choose the shadows. It grows in darkness because it can do nothing else.”
Favorite Quotes:
- “I have been starving for you for over a century. Carrying a need that has consumed me ten-thousand times over. One taste of you will never be enough to quell that hunger.”
- “A tree doesn’t choose the shadows. It grows in darkness because it can do nothing else.”
April 11, 2025
I enjoyed this book. The premise was quite interesting, with FMC Senna hunting monsters using her witch magic and tie to the "ribbon" along with her fighting skills and her elite tactical team. While hunting a rogue witch, Senna is captured by someone from her past - the enigmatic and dangerous Primordial demon Emerson.
The chemistry between Senna and Emerson is intense, with a century of hurtful history between them. But of course, underlying all the mistrust and anger is an unquenching attraction and need. I enjoyed Emerson's possessiveness, attentiveness and their psychic connection that allows them to communicate mind-to-mind. There's an intimacy about it that helps build the connection between them.
The side characters within Senna's company, Lexa, are interesting as well. The dynamic between her and bear shifter Nguyen is interesting, as is her relationship with "adopted" daughter Shay.
There's definitely a bit of spice in this book, some choking/breath play, hunting, and restraint so be aware of the trigger warnings.
The chemistry between Senna and Emerson is intense, with a century of hurtful history between them. But of course, underlying all the mistrust and anger is an unquenching attraction and need. I enjoyed Emerson's possessiveness, attentiveness and their psychic connection that allows them to communicate mind-to-mind. There's an intimacy about it that helps build the connection between them.
The side characters within Senna's company, Lexa, are interesting as well. The dynamic between her and bear shifter Nguyen is interesting, as is her relationship with "adopted" daughter Shay.
There's definitely a bit of spice in this book, some choking/breath play, hunting, and restraint so be aware of the trigger warnings.
March 12, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first time I’ve read anything by this author and I actually really liked it! I’m really new to the fantasy/romantasy game as well so this was definitely an interesting read.
I really enjoyed the whole secret agency mashed with supernatural beings. It’s not something I would normally pick up but I reeeeaaally liked the idea that the FMC Senna heads a team of what’s equivalent to FBI agents and they’re around to police the supernatural world.
I loooooved the romance in this as well! I’ve added Emerson Bradach to my list of shadow daddies 😍 His possessiveness was so hot 🥵
I’m upset at the ending though. Like wtf kind of cliffhanger was that?! And I mean that in the nicest way possible 🤣 Guess I’ll have to keep reading this series 🖤
This is my first time I’ve read anything by this author and I actually really liked it! I’m really new to the fantasy/romantasy game as well so this was definitely an interesting read.
I really enjoyed the whole secret agency mashed with supernatural beings. It’s not something I would normally pick up but I reeeeaaally liked the idea that the FMC Senna heads a team of what’s equivalent to FBI agents and they’re around to police the supernatural world.
I loooooved the romance in this as well! I’ve added Emerson Bradach to my list of shadow daddies 😍 His possessiveness was so hot 🥵
I’m upset at the ending though. Like wtf kind of cliffhanger was that?! And I mean that in the nicest way possible 🤣 Guess I’ll have to keep reading this series 🖤
March 14, 2025
This damn book just left me WANTING. What a cliffhanger! I cannot wait to see how our main girl, Senna, evolves in the next book in the series. I want to know more about this world she's in. I loved the heat between her and Emerson throughout this book, and I'm very much looking forward to learning more about him in the future as well. Who can resist a hunky demon, anyway? The bond between Senna and Shay is so sweet, and I'm quietly loving Dennis. But Nguyen? That mans needs happiness, and he better get it at some point or I'll cry. I think my favorite tiny detail was Emerson calling him "Bear" instead of his name. The slight animosity and disrespect tickled me. I felt like I had great connections with every player in the game, which is huge for me, and I'll just be impatiently waiting to be Drenched in Darkness again.
March 23, 2025
This is the first book I have read by this author. I will have to say this Paranormal Romantasy was exceptionally written and I ate it up.
The dialogue and plot had me entranced as it was sufficiently descriptive, seamlessly flowed, and at the perfect pace. From demons to witches, shifters, magical realms, supernatural power play, this book will take hold of you. And let’s not forget the MMC Emerson, he had me on edge and the steam between him and Senna was undeniably hot 🥵
The thrilling dynamic of predator and prey kept my pulse racing and the spice had my hot flashes on overdrive. This read was exciting, action packed and the twists had me clenching my pearls. I can’t say enough … then to my dismay left with a cliffhanger… 😫 I am going to need book 2 … like NOW
❤️🔥“I will hunt you to the end of this world and into the next.”
4.5/5
The dialogue and plot had me entranced as it was sufficiently descriptive, seamlessly flowed, and at the perfect pace. From demons to witches, shifters, magical realms, supernatural power play, this book will take hold of you. And let’s not forget the MMC Emerson, he had me on edge and the steam between him and Senna was undeniably hot 🥵
The thrilling dynamic of predator and prey kept my pulse racing and the spice had my hot flashes on overdrive. This read was exciting, action packed and the twists had me clenching my pearls. I can’t say enough … then to my dismay left with a cliffhanger… 😫 I am going to need book 2 … like NOW
❤️🔥“I will hunt you to the end of this world and into the next.”
4.5/5
March 11, 2025
This was a fantastic read. It was action-packed, fast-paced, and just the right amount of steam. The action kept the story moving, and the emotional moments stayed with me. I really truly enjoyed the story, and I loved the main characters so much and how well the writing showcased their struggles. Emerson is broody and sexy, and I wanted his POV so badly. Senna is smart, mature, protective, fierce, and in charge. I want to know more about the side characters and the clandestine organizations. And the ending! It’s a cliffhanger, but it’s a good one, and I can’t wait for the next book.
If you enjoy Criminal Minds, paranormal romance, enemies-to-lovers vibes, and breath play, I think you’ll love this book.
If you enjoy Criminal Minds, paranormal romance, enemies-to-lovers vibes, and breath play, I think you’ll love this book.
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