The Shadow Prince's Ruin

Dark Companions #2

by K.A. Merikan

“Give me your shadow, and my body is yours.”

An elven prince shouldn’t be working at Best Burgers Bonanza. Yet here I am, banished to the human realm for a lifetime of toil and misery. I guess that’s what I get for being a traitor and the shortest elf at the Nocturne Court, with a shadow no darker than a tea stain.



I’m stuck with no scheme up my sleeve when destiny brings me face to face with the answer to all my troubles.



Hawk. A dangerous human on the run from prison, so tall my neck hurts when I meet his gaze. His shadow is dark as death and it will be mine if only I can force him to marry me.



What I don’t expect though is the price for his exquisite power.



He wants my body.



I’ve never been an object of anyone’s desire, but I will do whatever it takes to make him my Dark Companion.



When our illicit deal shatters the ice around my heart, keeping Hawk at arm's length becomes impossible.



Our bond is supposed to be one of convenience. He’s crude, violent, reckless, and wants to devour me in the filthiest ways. He’s everything I shouldn’t want.



I chose him to be my salvation, but he might just prove to be my downfall.



◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆◆



“The Shadow Prince’s Ruin” is a standalone, scorching hot, dark M/M fantasy romance filled with dark humor, but also violence, peril, jealousy, and angst.

The book is a darkly romantic escape into the shadows where love and destiny collide. Find out if the beast of a human can melt the ice prince’s heart.



ugly duckling, marriage of convenience, illicit pact, size difference, dark humor, obsessive hero, isekai, fantasy world, elven prince, family trauma, shadow magic, monsters and fantastical creatures, fish-out-of-water, secrets, portal fantasy, forced proximity, road trip

~130,000 words (Standalone)

This story contains scenes of violence, offensive language and morally gray characters unafraid to burn the world down for their beloved.

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Romance, Paranormal, Magic, Dark, LGBT

359 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 17, 2025

About the author

(Goodreads profile run by Kat)

K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.

K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.

e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com

More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan

Reviews

[Astra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Sylvan!! I was so happy when this book came out because I wanted to see him get a happy ending. Despite him being the villain in the last book I honestly don’t blame him. His family was poisonous and he did what he thought would finally earn him a place. I think the best way to describe Sylvan would be sweet, small, but deadly and really smart. I loved his and Hawk’s dynamic!! And all the small moments they shared together, full of loving words and kisses. Hawk and Sylvan have a lot in common and they understand each other which made them fit like two puzzle pieces. The first half of this book was so sappy (in a good way) it felt like my heart was melting!!! Then towards the end you just get stabbed in the chest, I was not expecting so much bad to happen all at once. I kept looking to see how many pages were left to make sure there was still enough time for everything to turn out alright in the end. Thankfully that’s exactly what happened. I like this book better than the first. Was it amazing? Does it really deserve five stars? Maybe not but I have a soft spot for Sylvan 😂. I think his character is intricate and I enjoyed watching him face his past head on and really figure out what kind of life he wants to lead.

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️ 4.5 stars ⭐️

☾𝚂𝙾𝙽𝙶 𝙼𝙰𝚃𝙲𝙷 - 𝙸𝙽𝙵𝙸𝙽𝙸𝚃𝚈 𝙱𝚈 𝙹𝙰𝙼𝙴𝚂 𝚈𝙾𝚄𝙽𝙶𖤓
// 'Cause you're the reason I believe in fate, you're my paradise
And I'll do anything to be your love
or be your sacrifice //

“Are you… someone’s Dark Companion?” He blinks but steps back to the window. “Ooh, is that some new slang I missed? I could definitely be your companion tonight. And we could do dark, dark things”

Great being back in this magical dark fantasy world KA Merikan created. I absolutely loved big & bad Hawk falling for the pretty elven prince Sylvan. The chemistry between these two was sizzling, the manhandling, the passion, the ‘I would burn the world down for you’ vibe. I always fall for the big scary wolves that melt for their partner.
But there was also lots of love and protecting and devotion. Lots of ‘I would kill for you, and I’d also die for you’ moments, so I’m very happy these two found their sweet HEA.

“I am a prince of the Nocturne Court.”
Oooh, role play! I can go with that!

Hawk not believing Sylvan was actually a prince from a magical land but still going along with it was so funny. And also shows how fucking gone he was for his little princeling.

My boy might be a bit crazy, or a tad too invested in Dungeons and Dragons, but I feel protective of him.

The action and drama of the third act lost me a bit, but I’m gonna blame my overstimulated brain because this was an awesome read, a kind of sweet and a lot spicy romance, fun world-building.

Everything I’ve experienced since meeting Sylvan is like a lucid dream and I hope I’ll never wake up.
— “You are my forever.” —

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

CW and tropes (spoilers):
- Elven prince vs human
- Dark fantasy
- Morally grey MCs
- MC w/ tattoos
- Violence
- Marriage of convenience
- Size difference
- Opposites attract
- Family trauma
- Forced proximity
- Road trip
- Never been kissed
- Virgin MC
- Rimming
- Intercrural
- Strict top/bottom
- Manhandling
- Hand necklace

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sylvan, a villain-adjacent character from Dark Companions #1 is banished to spend 50 years working at a fast food restaurant in the human realm. He's completely miserable of course, and spends his time plotting his return home. When he meets an escaped convict named Hawk with the most deliciously dark shadow he's ever seen, Sylvan knows he's found the key to going back. With Hawk as his Dark Companion, he'll wield all the power in Hawk's shadow and prove his worth to all those who doubted him. Hawk is all in, mesmerized by the pint-size weirdo who talks about shadows and thinks he's a prince. The two have a great deal in common- they are both on the run after making questionable choices, and have experienced betrayal from those closest to them. But can true love really develop in a week?

"Is it kinda woo-woo? Yes. But does it make me feel all gooey inside to be chosen by this absolute stunner? Also yes. And, besides, I’ve seen and heard stranger things than this."

There are so many great and humorous moments in this book that made me laugh out loud. But my favourite moments were related to character development: when Sylvan realizes that love might trump power, and when Hawk realizes that he has value outside of being a protector. The Shadow Prince's Ruin is a great read about self discovery and learning what truly matters in life (oftentimes the hard way lol). I am looking forward to book 3 in this realm and I hope we get Tristan's story... with a vampire MC!

With my size, and the violence I so easily mete out, I never thought anyone would consider wanting to be my protector. I always thought that I would always be the one to give while my partner takes. Yet here Sylvan is, promising to bleed for me. I’m so touched I don’t know what to do with myself."

Rating: 4 stars
Angst: 3.5/5
Steam: 3.5/5

I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Mx. T *Chaotic Reader* · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW✨

Another cozy dark romantasy, but this one gets more action than the first. Hawk and Sylvan are used to being rejects in their own world, one an escaped convict and the other and exiled prince. What starts as a relation of convenience soon turns into feelings and love, but they are put to the test time and time again, both by forces outside of their relationship and by their own choices and feelings. We get magical Elven artifacts, murderous creatures, a lot of very tense moments, heartbreak and some Kyran and Luke content. And ofc a HEA that's well deserved after all these two go through

[martina (the life of a chaotic reader) · Rating 4 out of 5]

everyone knows that i have some issues with this duo, however this series keeps being a win and nothing makes me happier.

i genuinely enjoyed this so much, because what’s not to love about a snarky twink and a soft hearted murderous giant?
honestly the first part was one of the funniest thing i’ve ever read. i really had a blast.
but honestly i would’ve cut more in the middle and developed the last part a bit more.

i really hope they’ll keep writing about this world!!

i read an arc and this is my honest opinion.

[NitaBee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 of the dark companions series - go back and read book 1 if you haven’t. Off you go.

Starting strong from the first chapter. There’s Action . Carnage. And an escaped felon named Hawk.

Hawk finds himself at Best Burgers Bonanza, where we left Sylvan from book 1 at.

Sylvan is the banished elven prince from the nightmare realm.

They have a cute-meet, there’s attraction but also a clashing of err cultures 🤣

“Many shadow-wielders say meeting one’s Dark Companion can feel like a strike of destiny, but when I look at this massive human whose name I don’t even know, I don’t feel that at all. This isn’t happening to me. I’m taking destiny into my own hands.”

Hawk is mesmerised.

“Talking to him is like encountering a fairy tale illustration in real life.”

Sylvan tries to explain who he is to Hawk but Hawk thinks it’s all role-play.

“That’s… elaborate for a sexual fantasy, but whatever gets this beauty off.”

Omg it’s too cute and funny, Sylvan is just been himself but since he’s from another realm Hawk is trying is best to make this work in his human mind.

“If that’s his fantasy, I can lean into it. Kinda hot to be the brute who ravishes this snow-white princeling.”

The sexy times are very sexy .

There’s a road trip full of misunderstandings and miscommunications.

“Why are you like this? I’m not trying to cheat you. In fact, I asked this question because I feel you're too deep into the whole elf thing, and I’m worried!” “Because my whole life I’ve not been taken seriously, and here you are, my promised, doing the same!”

Hawk finally realises Sylvan is not crazy in the worst possible situation.

“Can someone tell me what the fuck is going on here? I’m all for weird kinks, but this is me using my safe word. I feel like I’m in the Twilight Zone!”

“You’re a real life psycho twink,” Hawk mumbles, watching me, as if he isn’t sure if approaching me is the wisest of decisions. I pull a wooden stool close and stand on it so we are face to face as I kiss him. I stare right into his eyes, and slide my hands to his stubbly cheeks. “No one is taking you away from me. Not him, and not even the Lord of the Nocturne Court.”

Omg I love these two. They can’t get enough of each other but it’s not just all hot sex. There’s sweetness, protectiveness and intimacy.

Hawk is excited for a new chance in a new world with his new lover. Sylvan is excited to be with Hawk, he cherishes Hawk but is also intoxicated by the thought of having Hawks powerful shadow.

“I reimagine my dainty prince as the sea witch from The Little Mermaid, and saying, “It won’t cost much, just your shadow.”

Hawk starts to doubt if Sylvan actually loves him or his shadow. He realises Sylvan does love him in a dangerous situation but it costs them both dearly.

From beginning to the end of this well written book, it’s a enthralling journey, filled with lines that made me laugh out loud, hot and passionate love scenes and the beautiful bond and love forged between Sylvan and Hawk.

“Give me a few more moments with you in silence. We have all the time in the world.” Hawk nuzzles my ear with a shivery sigh. “You are my forever.”

[NitaBee · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

[Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝙸 𝚌𝚑𝚘𝚜𝚎 𝚑𝚒𝚖 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚑𝚊𝚍𝚘𝚠, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚛𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚗𝚘𝚠 𝙸'𝚍 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚐𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚗 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚝𝚘 𝚑𝚒𝚖 𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚗 𝚒𝚏 𝚑𝚎 𝚍𝚒𝚍𝚗'𝚝 𝚌𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚕𝚕."

Wow! This was so different from book 1 and did not turn out like I'd expect! It starts off with poor Sylvan serving his sentence in the human world. As you might expect, living with Luke's mother and working Luke's old dead-end job has left Sylvan miserable and utterly alone. When a man named Hawk shows up at Sylvan's work with a shadow unlike any he's ever seen before, Sylvan jumps at the chance to make it his.

"𝙼𝚢 𝚋𝚘𝚢 𝚖𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝 𝚋𝚎 𝚊 𝚋𝚒𝚝 𝚌𝚛𝚊𝚣𝚢, 𝚘𝚛 𝚊 𝚝𝚊𝚍 𝚝𝚘𝚘 𝚒𝚗𝚟𝚎𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝙳𝚞𝚗𝚐𝚎𝚘𝚗𝚜 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙳𝚛𝚊𝚐𝚘𝚗𝚜, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝙸 𝚏𝚎𝚎𝚕 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚟𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚑𝚒𝚖."

I found it absolutely hilarious that Hawk spent so much of the book humoring Sylvan when he discussed how he was an Elven Prince making a deal for Hawk's shadow. Hawk just readily agrees and plays into the delusion he is certain Sylvan is living in. I couldn't wait until it came to a point where it was right in Hawk's face that Sylvan was telling the truth all along. It didn't disappoint.

"𝙼𝚢 𝚑𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚒𝚕𝚜 𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚏𝚊𝚌𝚎, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚎𝚛 𝚗𝚎𝚌𝚔. 𝙸𝚝'𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚍 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑 𝚜𝚙𝚎𝚌𝚔𝚜 𝚘𝚏 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚖𝚒𝚝𝚑'𝚜 𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚘𝚍. 𝙼𝚢 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝚕𝚒𝚝𝚝𝚕𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚗𝚜𝚝𝚎𝚛."

I felt like this one was more focused on the romance than book 1. Hawk is completely obsessed with Sylvan from the start and Sylvan is not unaffected himself. These two genuinely cared for one another and it wasn't long before being with Hawk was more important to Sylvan than having Hawk's shadow. Their love was put to the test more than once and I was pleasantly surprised by how fiercely Sylvan protected his man. Though the priorities and wants of the MCs changed as the story progressed, I think the way things turned out in the end were exactly what the two needed for their HEA.

[Caia · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5
adventurous dark emotional funny fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes

The Shadow Prince's Ruin was such a great dark romantasy filled with the dark humor I love and all the hot action that I craved (sex, I mean the sex) but also all the whirlwind love I was up for!

I’m still a bit overwhelmed, because all of Hawk is overwhelming. From his size, to his confidence. No one has ever treated me the way he does, and I’m not sure what to make of it, because the mix of compliments and disrespect is disconcertingly arousing. He dove in for a kiss as if it was his birthright to fondle a prince.

This was a binger, I opened the book and stopped reading after I finished the Bonus Story 🤗
Sylvan and Hawk got me hooked and I can already see myself revisiting them!


A personal side note:

Two months into my banishment and I’m already on the verge of killing someone when asked for extra ketchup.

Oh Sylvan, I feel you!

[haletostilinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐︎ 4.25 stars rounded down! ⭐︎

First read of the year down the hatch.

It took me longer than I would have liked, but to be fair I had stuff going on, so I didn't read as much of this each day as I would have otherwise. Without other stuff going on, I think I would have finished this much faster, although still perhaps longer than I would have liked. Although to be fair, this is over 400 pages.

Overall, I enjoyed this a lot. I was excited to get Sylvan's story and it didn't disappoint.

I adored his love interest, Hawk. He's a bit rough around the edges, having been in jail the past 5 years before a car crash in the prison transport van he's in earns him his freedom. But underneath it all is a softie at heart, who just wants to love and be loved.

Hawk starts out on the run, and he and Sylvan run into each other Best Burger's Bananza, where Sylvan has been working the past two months. Hawk himself is a very tall, big man, and Sylvan a very short, slight elf, and are both massively each other's type.

Also, Hawk's shadow is big and dark and powerful. Just what Sylvan needs to end his banishment early and return to the Nocturn Court with something to offer to he won't be immediately killed or banished for longer upon returning.

Hawk is just wanting to experience freedom for the first time in years, and a good fuck with the small man is just what Hawk wants.

This starts them on a journey of redemption and changing for the better on the road to a HEA.

The first half or so of this book takes place in the human world, and Hawk doesn't believe Sylvan about the Nightmare Realm and him being an elf or anything of the sort until he sees it for himself (even though he wonders if he's dreaming or something). To be fair, who would believe that? Even with Sylvan's pointed ears staring you in the face.

I really liked these two and their chemistry. This was largely enjoyable throughout.

Why the .75 stars off, then? Well, this was actually...a bit more on the tame side for these two ladies, smut wise. What we got was hot and sexy, of course, but it just takes its time getting us to the sexy bits (except once in the beginning of them knowing each other) and there just isn't a ton of smut in this overall, given the length of the story. I was surprised by that.

Also, these two move so fast. Which, understandable in a way since Hawk is on the run in the human world and Sylvan needs to get the collar off of neck to have Hawk become his Dark Companion, and once they're in the Nightmare Realm, they have to make it official or wait another month for another full moon.

Like the bulk of this story takes place over one week or so. These two go through a lot, to be sure, but they are declaring love basically on day three and it's a bit like woah...that's fast.

There's also this storyline thread with something called the Sun Crown and ultimately I get why it was used the way it was, and it ultimately kind of saved these two and gave them the HEA they wanted, I just...kinda wanted Hawk to stay fully human. Or be able to transform back to his full human self between the two or something. Like I get that he could still be mostly human except for some changes - like his eyes, which really bummed me out - but idk, something about it annoyed me.

But I get why it went the way it went, and that it had to go that way to ultimately get them their HEA, I just wasn't overly fond of that. But since I understood its purpose, it didn't factor too heavily into my .75 stars off.

This was almost like two books. First half in the human realm and second half in the nightmare realm, with different casts of characters and differing motivations throughout. But I did love where Sylvan and Hawk ended up, and that they could get their HEA. I just ultimately didn't quite love this as much as the first, but it's still up there for me.

Overall, a strong series and I can't wait for the next one in this series. Perhaps it could be about Tristan? I think it should be. Can't wait though, either way. This is such an interesting world these two ladies have created.

Onto the next!😘

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

My Ratings for the Dark Companions Series:

✨ Taken by the Lord of the Nocturne Court: 5 stars (my review)
✨ The Shadow Prince's Ruin: 4.25 stars

[Jane aka Coughy019 (Safety info included) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes: size difference, marriage of convenience, forced proximity
Feels: 3.75/5
Steam*: 3/5
Kinks: n/a
Angst: low/medium
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content warnings: murder, violence, past near death experiences including overdose, city parents, death of family members
Cheating between MCs: No
Any cheating: No
Other person drama: neither have any thought of being with anyone else in this book.

4 stars

Hawk is 30. He has had a tough life, and he's escaped death many times. He is gay, and he's been manipulated and led astray by a pretty face more than once. His ex landed him in prison for 5 years, because he killed some family members of his ex's because the ex said they were abusing him. He only escaped prison after 5 years because he was being transported and the van crashed, killing the guards and giving him the chance to escape. There's two things he's looking to do after getting some distance from the crash site, find some food and get laid. He meets Sylvan at the fast food restaurant drive-thru and thinks he's in luck for both.

Sylvan is 25 and he is an Elf Prince from a paranormal realm. He reluctantly conspired to attempt to kill the king, and got banished to the human realm for 50 years. He's a tiny thing, a runt, with very little Shadow magic which is important to the realm they are from. He's an ugly duckling to his people, but he's the cutest and hottest twink to Hawk. Sylvan is naive and ignorant of human customs. So he has some funny and awkward misunderstandings. Hawk has a massive shadow because of his near death experiences, and Sylvan wants to bond with Hawk and take control of his shadow. In exchange he will give Hawk his body, since Hawk desires him. But first Sylvan needs to remove the band around his neck suppressing his power. So they take a road trip together on the run to someone that can take it off. They make it to the realm Sylvan's from but they face a lot of danger there. Along the way they fall in love and their relationship with each other because more important than other agendas that they had.

This was a great book. The characters were vibrant. They were dark and flawed, but also endearing, vulnerable, and they fell in love and ended up choosing the other person over many things, putting them first. You rooted for them. There was a lot of depth to the plot, it wasn't completely easy for them, they had to struggle. I liked the early humor that came from Sylvan being so awkward and Hawk not believing that he was an actual elf Prince. Though I do wish that Hawk had started believing Sylvan a little earlier, because I felt like real feelings couldn't start until he got to know Sylvan for who he was.


Some notable moments:

Relatable for anyone who's worked in retail / fast food / customer service! "Am I really supposed to live like this for fifty years? Two months into my banishment and I’m already on the verge of killing someone when asked for extra ketchup."

I love this level of obsessed affection! "I kiss the back of his head like he’s my kitten. Kiss the pointy ears, cuddle him to my chest, overwhelmed by how much I’ve missed someone so sweet in my embrace. I can make a little detour to Boston. Why not? And then take him with me to Canada. After all, he doesn’t seem to have a lot going for him here. An evening shift at Best Burgers Bonanza, no car, and a room he claims to rent even though I think he’s just hiding that he lives with his mom. I know what my family would say, but it’s not kidnapping if he agrees to go."

"Sylvan clears his throat and I’m already dreading how my dad will react to anything he might say. “We already share a bond that will soon be deeper than any blood relation can be.” He looks like a diamond in mud on the beat-up leather sofa. He radiates beauty, and if only I manage to keep him, I will get to bask in that glow. Fox sits at the table with one foot on another chair and raises his eyebrows. “Oh, so he’s crazy. Now it all makes sense.”"


*FYI about steam: I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.

**Note about spoilers: I like to comment on the plot of a book in reviews, so I almost always mark my reviews as containing spoilers. But I try to avoid spoiling the big dramatic moments! As a reader, I personally like to know what I'm getting into before I read a book so I know more about the content and if it's to my taste/mood, so I try to give that information in my reviews for myself when I'm considering rereading and also for other readers.

[warhawke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: MM Fantasy Romance
Type: Standalone Book 2 of Dark Companions
POV: First Person- Dual
Rating:




It had been two months since his banishment to the human realm, and elven prince Sylvan Goldweed was still struggling to adjust. The moment he saw Hawk Coleman, he knew the beastly fugitive could be his ticket back to the Nocturne Court. But neither of them realized a simple exchange could permanently change their lives.



I was intrigued by Sylvan in the previous book, and I'm glad with how the author did his story justice. I loved the dynamics between him and Hawk with how they were similar but in different ways. The sexual chemistry between them sizzled, but most importantly the love between them was palpable despite their fast-moving relationship.

I want to be his rock, the one he turns to when the world crumbles around him. And I want to make sure he remains safe when he’s under my protection.

The storyline was exciting and enjoyable with the author's signature humor while also delivering emotional moments that added depth to the characters.

The Shadow Prince's Ruin is a story of sacrifice and self-reflection. It would appeal to readers who enjoy sexy MM fantasy romance.



Books in the series:




⚜️👑⚜️. . . (F)BR with Twinsie CC . . . ⚜️👑⚜️



For more reviews/interviews/book talk/promo visit:



For graphics, trailers & author services visit Warhawke Design Studio.

[Axalia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sylvan et Hawk avec un Culomètre à 🥵

Ben écoutez, c'est du vrai K.A Merikan comme on a l'habitude de lire, si vous voulez du smut, un opposite attract, du BDSM et du fantastique, vous êtes au bon endroit !

Sylvan travaille dans un fast-food humain après avoir été banni de la Cour Nocturne, mais il a un plan pour rentrer dans les bonnes grâces du Prince et il a trouvé la personne parfaite : Hawk, un homme qu'il vient de rencontrer et qui a une ombre parfaite pour lui donner des pouvoirs. Sauf que Hawk, qui vient de s'échapper de prison, a d'autres idées en tête...

Les deux protagonistes sont vraiment des stéréotypes de genre, pour notre plus grand plaisir ~
Sylvan est le mignon petit elfe, banni certes, mais qui a de grands projets et de l'innocence à revendre. Hawk est le grand, sombre et tatoué, qui va jouer son jeu de magie et de palais des ombres même s'il n'y croit pas trop, voulant juste un billet pour un endroit où personne pourra le reconnaitre et s'il peut profiter de ce petit minet un peu loufoque au passage, il ne dira pas non.

Je vous préviens : la première partie n'est que du cul, du beau, d'ailleurs, les autrices n'ayant pas l'habitude de faire dans le soft, elles nous offrent de grands moments alliant BDSM, souplesse et orgasmes menant à l'évanouissement.

La deuxième partie est plus soft, se concentrant sur le retour de Sylvan à la Cour Nocturne et à une partie plus tournée vers l'action et les rebondissements. C'est tout aussi sympa, mais c'est complètement différent, on a vraiment une bascule dans la romantasy comme on la connait. Et ça fonctionne plutôt bien, il y a un vrai travail sur les personnages, avec une partie sur leurs faiblesses qui va devenir leur force et sur des vérités qui permettent d'avancer dans la romance.

Bref, j'ai pas mal aimé cette petite duologie, bien que ça ne soit pas du tout ma zone de confort.

[Andi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book as much as I love the first one. I can't wait to read what the authors have in store for us next!

[Ana]

DNF at 50%

Maybe I'll come back to it, but for right now it's a no.

[CC · Rating 4 out of 5]

4★



On the run, Hawk Coleman can’t believe his luck when he sets eyes on the cute twink who goes by the name of Prince Sylvan Goldweed. Though Hawk has limited options, Sylvan is drawn to his shadow and suddenly an entirely different realm is open to them.

“If that’s his fantasy, I can lean into it. Kinda hot to be the brute who ravishes this snow-white princeling.”

Narrated in dual POV, Sylvan is determined to earn the respect of his family and his place in the Nocturne Court. With Hawk, Sylvan can reach new heights with his shadowcraft but their path is twisted and not without sacrifice. Sylvan had me laughing many times with his naivete regarding non-realm culture or vocabulary. Hawk is actually quite sweet and totally devoted to Sylvan. Together they are a balanced pair with come combustible and also funny scenes.

This fantasy world continues to intrigue me. Though I wanted the culmination to last a little longer, I enjoyed the journey taken by Hawk and Sylvan. I look forward to reading more books in the Dark Companions series.


*This was a (F)BR with Twinsie Hawkey*


For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hawk found his way out of prison towards his freedom in a bloody way. He can’t believe his luck. He ends up at Best Burgers Bonanza.
Guess what, yes!

Sylvan is an elven prince banished from his Nightmare Realm and doomed to work at Best Burgers Bonanza.

When they meet, they have different interests without being aware of it. Sylvan wants Hawk’s dark shadow, Hawk wants Sylvan’s body. It’s a bit confusing for them but it’s a hell lot of fun.
Ever the future was imagined differently. Sylvan needs to marry him to make him his Dark Companion.
So he can take back his position at the Nocturne Court. Hawk is completely mesmerized by this tiny, needy, hot… how did he call himself Prince? Lovely cosplayer! Ha, if he only knew!

Did I mention our little twink Prince is just as mesmerized by Hawk?
After Hawk understands Sylvan isn’t as delusional as he thought, and understands what it’s mostly about. The game is on!

“Do you think you could love me?”

Traveling to Sylvan’s realm they have to face a lot! The shadow is powerful!
Oh boy, so many events are rolled out before us. Fasten your seat belts, because it is a rollercoaster ride!! All is widely written. The world created here and the magic flowing around was marvelous to watch and be part of.
The story was fun, on the dark side, super sexy, anxious, and dangerous, they have to fight hard to be and stay together.
Sylvan and Hawk together are hot, protective, and possessive.
Overall it was a super entertaining and enjoyable story!

Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews

[mich ⚘ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I definitely enjoyed this book a whole lot more than the first one. It was action packed, lots of angst and emotions in general, the tension between them was on another level BUT there was a lot that i just didn't care for? despite there being tension between them it still felt like half the time why was i rooting for them to have a happy ending and quite a few times the angst could have been avoided with more logical thinking and communication. i saw people saying too that its said to be a standalone but i think you should read the books in order to get the best experience and understanding!

[Kelsey Rhodes · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75/5 stars! This is the second book in the Dark Companions series and I love how much humor was integrated into this story. It works as a standalone but I think I enjoyed it more having read book 1. There is so much chemistry between Hawk and Sylvan that I'm surprised the pages didn't start on fire. I loved the premise of an exiled elven prince working at a burger joint of all places.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just like with the first book, the beginning was slow, but after the 50% mark I couldn't put it down. It feels like a lot for it to get good, but once it does, it Really does.

[leisce ᓚᘏᗢ · Rating 2 out of 5]

The thing with dark romances is that you have to keep an open mind going into them. Every author has a different definition of what "dark fantasy romance" looks like.

L word is suggestively dropped in mc's inner dialogue at the 42% mark, or after less than 2 days of knowing each other. As someone who primarily reads fantasy romance with the fated mates trope, I shouldn't have found this to be so shocking. HOWEVER, there was no love or even any foundations of a romantic relationship leading up to that point - the story was literally built and centered around their mutual instalust. If I were to play a drinking game with the number of times either mc said they were excusing each other's red flags or smooth brains because they found each other extremely attractive, I'd be in the ER being treated for alcohol poisoning.

Usually when there's a book with instalust, the whole point is seeing how their relationship develops over time and they grow to value each other as more than objects of pleasure. This book is the exception to that rule. Hawk literally only valued Sylvan for his potential in bed. He didn't see him as smart, independent, capable - none of that. Sylvan was infantilized and seen as someone Hawk needed to take care of, and not as someone would look out for a partner. I myself like the occasional himbo character, but when "himbo" isn't the only adjective used to describe them. It just felt like they decided to carry out their bonding agreement so they could have sex for eternity, and so Hawk could evade the police. Which, that's fine, but where's the mf romance I signed up for. They weren't equals inside or outside of the bedroom, imo.

Also, I was so interested in the plot that I got annoyed when it was interrupted by sex scenes. I so desperately wanted this book to be good.





ANOTHER THING. The "innocent" and naive way Sylvan is portrayed in the first half of the book didn't sit right with me at all. Despite Sylvan being a consenting adult, it felt like Hawk was taking advantage of someone he KNEW and CONTINUOUSLY STATED he believed to be mentally unwell and often "not all there." I get that this is a dark romance novel, but Hawk's whole mentality of going along with whatever Sylvan despite thinking he was batshit - just becuase he wanted to get laid - gave "hole is hole 💁🏻‍♂️".

I liked the writing and was so invested in the world/plot, but I couldn't stand this couple. Would definitely read another Merikan book about a different couple in the same world. Ily Merikan, just not Sylvan and Hawk🫶🏽

Rating 2 stars instead of 1 because Merikan writes really good novels. (But this couple pissed me right tf off).

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.25 stars

The Shadow Prince’s Ruin is the second book in K.A. Merikan’s Dark Companion series. This is a high-heat fantasy with a little bit of a darker edge, with Hawk a convicted murderer on the run. The story softens him by explaining how he was manipulated into his crimes, but he is still a morally gray guy and both he and Sylvan have darker moments. They are also both likable characters and I enjoyed them together.

The blurb for this book states that it is a standalone, which is why I picked it up having not read the first. After reading this second book, do I think it is a standalone story? No, I don’t. But do I think it worked well enough to still enjoy it? Yes.

Overall, I found this one fun and engaging. I liked the dynamic between Sylvan and Hawk and their odd-couple pairing carries a lot of the weight of the story, as the two very different men find themselves surprisingly compatible.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lost impetus for me.

[Arwen Reads Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh this one was angsty alright

This book has been my oxygen for the past few days as I write this review. This is truly, for many reasons, one of my favorite books I've ever read. It made me feel things throughout the whole thing: it got me laughing like a maniac (because gosh, dark humor is the best) and then ugly crying in my bed, wondering how the hell they were going to pull off an HEA.

Hawk and Sylvan have so much depth to them, as individuals as well as a couple. I honestly fell in love with Hawk's complexity as I was reading because gosh: he keeps saying he's no poet but I beg to differ. Sylvan learns to unlearn the toxicity he was born in and it's just as beautiful to see (again, I cried really hard).

The story was beautiful and yet painful but trust me when I say that it is worth every single page. I honestly screamed a big loud "no!" when I saw the word "epilogue" on my screen— please, please, please, I will pay to see more of them! Just a crumb- ?

I knew my suffering would eventually lead me somewhere good. Even in my darkest moments, I’ve never lost hope and it’s why I crawled out of that river in what I thought was a dream. I could have given in to despair and let the current take me, but deep in my gut, I knew there was more for me.

I recieved a free copy of this book and this is my honest review

[Libros y Citas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to read Sylvan’ story, I liked him in book one. And I was enjoying the book, liking the way he talks and their relationship was about of building trust–and fighting insecurities–and no complete distrust like the previous story. But then I got worried because the stupid (sorry I cannot find a better word) actions began and I don’t believe them, they make no sense, hence the use of the word stupid.
I don’t understand why they stayed at the shop after buying the food. First, it was closing; second, there was no need; third, it was risky. And pulling down the mask again and risking being recognised again? Here the story started becoming like the fist book with all those unnecessary mistakes and I didn’t like it. Why? It could have been made in a different way with same results but more sense, for example, arguing near the car.
I don’t understand either when Sylvan cries in pain at the beginning of the scene but Hawk didn’t come to his rescue until the end. I don’t believe it for a second, Hawk should have barrel in to the room few seconds after the cry. It’s still stupid but at least makes sense with the character’s personality. I get the process should be finished, but why don’t make Sylvan scream at the end of it?
Or they stopping to have sex when they didn’t have time to waste. And they weren’t even quick about it either. Sorry, but I care more about the plot that the heat, and when something don’t add up, and it’s really dumb… Maybe I get it know, angst mean stupid decisions, that I don’t like nor believe, ant it certainly makes me angsty, or rather angry.
Fortunately the don’t continue through the book, the rest are normal mistakes helping them grow and connect.
There’s one other sore point though, I don’t like it either when it’s said that what they do in bed is shameful (“this is shameful for someone in my position”) or low (“how low have I stopped”) for someone in Sylvan’s position, and using first person makes it worse. It’s a very negative wording in my opinion, not expected would have been better, what one likes shouldn’t be shameful expectations and others opinions be dammed.
All in all I’ve enjoyed it more than the previous book, the worldbuilding is amazing and the way the characters develop and heal was great, they’re a good match, adorable even, and deserve all the love and happiness in the world.
Maybe it’s a me thing and not the book, I don’t know.

«Okay, I’ll just be frank. I can’t take my eyes off you, and I want to talk to you a bit more. Do you want that cookie?»

[Shyandmoodreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally want to scream over how much I loved this book. What an absolute masterpiece! I love me a good redemption arc and the authors did not disappoint on this one 🤩.

It's hard to say, because I loved the first book so much but I may love this one more 🤫... It's very close though. Sylvan and Hawk are absolute perfection even with their imperfections. I was rooting for them every step of the way 🥹 I mean they both had so much working against them, and so much hurt from their pasts, I just wanted to wrap them both up in a protective bubble and let them live their HEA there.

Thankfully K.A. Merikan took care of that part for us, even if the ride there was filled with SO MANY TWISTS AND TURNS👀🫣. I'm not one to cry over many books, but man this one had me bawling so many times😭 😅.

I won't give much more away, but trust me when I say this book is one amazing, fantastical ride, and I LOVED👏 EVERY 👏 MINUTE 👏💯.

The romance was so amazing, I loved the possession, loved the cheesy sap, loved the dirty talking 😈. And the spicy scenes between these two was superb 🫠🔥🥵.

I seriously hope there's more books in this world because I am NOT ready to say goodbye yet, I need more. I need more Kyran and Luke and Flap. I need more Sylvan and Hawk. Just give me it all 😈🥰. The world building in this is just another cherry on top of this beauty, and I can't wait to see more of this world and it's mysteries 💥😍💗.

Definitely a top read of 2025 for me, for sure! I'm so glad I finally got the chance to sit down and read this.

[Cynthia M Brow · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shadow Prince's Ruin is the second book in the Dark Companions series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Prince Sylvan an elf who was banished to the human world and Hawk a human who is on the run from prison. I loved being back in the Nocturne Court verse. I loved the characters and world building in the series. I loved the dark humor and action in the story. My favorite thing about this book was watching these two figure out what truly matters. I would definitely recommend this book and series.

[Thurman · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5
I didn't love Sylvan in the first book but I understand him more in this book. Hawk was great. It took him a while to even believe Sylvan was from somewhere different but in the end they made a cute couple.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Leilani Noack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the second book. So many twists and turns. Love seeing the Lord & Luke in this book. Sylvan deserved so much better from his family that I’m happy he found a new family in Hawk. Love this series.

[Precious · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exceptional story.

It has been a minute since I last read a book this long and remain invested in every aspect of it.

There is something about the way each character was portrayed that stuck with me. The author's writing was just as flawless.

Hawk is a literal giant teddy bear who hasn't had the best experiences in his life. Regardless of this he still has hope that things will be better, that he will find someone who will be just for him. And for that, Hawk has my heart. He is easily pleased and such a sucker for twinks. Despite his large intimidating build, he is gentle and soft with a fierce loyalty to a boy who may seen a bit crazy at first.

Sylvan is a cutie patootie. He is tiny but packs a punch. He's sole purpose is to prove that there is more to his tiny form than what people believe, but along the way that changes to protecting Hawk even willing to face death for his love. Sylvan is full of heart and, because of his upbringing, seeing this adds to how satisfying his character development is.

I love the playful nature between these two. Although they pretty much spent the whole time running from either law enforcements or the result of difficult choices made, their story is admirable in nature.

//ARC Review//