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The Dark Queens #1
Shadows and Roses
Seduce a queen, save a nation. Nothing a courtesan can’t handle.
Called the Prince of the Night, Castien hasn’t met an aristocrat he can’t bend to his will. His next target — Her Cruel Majesty, the Queen Anais — will be no exception.
But he’s not just after a night of pleasure. The sadistic Queen and her court are everything that is wrong with the world. In this deadly game of seduction, he must slip into her heart and steal her secrets. Only then will the rebellion gain the edge they need to destroy the throne.
Dance with her.
End her.
Cut off the head of the snake.
And lose his heart in the process.
For Castien finds not pain in her bedroom, but a hand reaching out:
Give me a chance. Trust me.
*This book is intended for mature audiences. Content warnings include: SA, violence, death, trauma, suggestion of cheating.*
Called the Prince of the Night, Castien hasn’t met an aristocrat he can’t bend to his will. His next target — Her Cruel Majesty, the Queen Anais — will be no exception.
But he’s not just after a night of pleasure. The sadistic Queen and her court are everything that is wrong with the world. In this deadly game of seduction, he must slip into her heart and steal her secrets. Only then will the rebellion gain the edge they need to destroy the throne.
Dance with her.
End her.
Cut off the head of the snake.
And lose his heart in the process.
For Castien finds not pain in her bedroom, but a hand reaching out:
Give me a chance. Trust me.
*This book is intended for mature audiences. Content warnings include: SA, violence, death, trauma, suggestion of cheating.*
- GenresFantasy
429 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2025
3 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 7, 2025
This book took me by surprise - in a good way. It initially seemed a bit darker than I have previously read when it first started but it kept me gripped and I really enjoyed it. It was a well paced story and had lots of interesting twists and turns. I was fascinated by the idea of woman with actual claws and how this portrayed/ though of within the societies in the book.
I found it intriguing in terms of the content - it’s very much a matriarchal society - and found it refreshing that the MMC wasn’t your usual muscle bound warrior type. Although I was a little confused by the blurb with the way it described Castien’s role in the book, as I didn’t feel he was portrayed as a spy in quite the way it was written.
That being said it didn’t detract from my interest in the story. I loved Anais and her Escorts as characters.
I felt this was very much a character driven story rather than world building. While this didn’t put me off at all, I do think it would have been good to have known more about the different lands/ houses/ kingdoms and how the hierarchy worked within this world. I found myself wanting to know more about why certain things were happening between the rulers, as well as being invested in the characters in Anais’ court.
Overall I found it really enjoyable and will definitely be reading book 2!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and all comments and opinions are my own and given voluntarily.
I found it intriguing in terms of the content - it’s very much a matriarchal society - and found it refreshing that the MMC wasn’t your usual muscle bound warrior type. Although I was a little confused by the blurb with the way it described Castien’s role in the book, as I didn’t feel he was portrayed as a spy in quite the way it was written.
That being said it didn’t detract from my interest in the story. I loved Anais and her Escorts as characters.
I felt this was very much a character driven story rather than world building. While this didn’t put me off at all, I do think it would have been good to have known more about the different lands/ houses/ kingdoms and how the hierarchy worked within this world. I found myself wanting to know more about why certain things were happening between the rulers, as well as being invested in the characters in Anais’ court.
Overall I found it really enjoyable and will definitely be reading book 2!
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and all comments and opinions are my own and given voluntarily.
February 28, 2025
I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
TL;DR: it was fun, intriguing, and fast-paced and I would recommend! Be sure to check your triggers.
Full review:
In Shadows & Roses, our MMC Castien FitzUmbra—a member of the Night Court’s High House of Shadows—arrives at the royal court of Drantar to serve as a courtesan for a contracted period. Castien is extremely handsome and charming and an experienced and highly sought-after courtesan.
Castien grew up with common folk who despise the nobility and envision a future without the nobles in charge, but despite Castien’s lifelong friendship with these folks and his years of service in the Night Court, he is not fully prepared him for the viciousness and depravity of the royal court’s nobles (the female members of which literally have claws), nor for the extreme cruelty of Drantar’s sadistic Queen, Anais (our FMC). He quickly is forced to learn how to play the games necessary to survive at court, especially as he comes to know and understand Anais and her Inner Circle’s workings and motivations.
As Drantar teeters on the edge of war, and the politics and alliances are constantly shifting and changing, Castien’s and Anais’s trust—in themselves, each other, and everyone around them—is pushed to the limits.
This was a solid, shining 4 stars for me! Things I enjoyed:
-a matriarchal society where many people have never heard of a “king” and people aren’t weird about sex and sexuality 👸🙌
-a cunning, strategic, tough FMC who is a true survivor, fighter, and leader
-morally questionable characters who you care about and root for anyway
-court intrigue/politicking/secrets—how can you ever know who to trust?!
-angst/conflicted emotions/pining
-pacing—there were zero parts that dragged for me; this book was hard to put down and definitely kept me up later than I intended wanting just “one more chapter” 😅
-third person narration, alternating between Castien’s and Anais’s POV. This worked really well.
-cliffhanger ending shrouded in mystery—I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Things I struggled a bit with:
-I didn’t fully understand what initially led Anais to open up to or trust Castien; it seemed to happen quickly without him really being tested and I wish I could have read a little more about Cas’s first month at court and interactions with Anais to see this develop.
-Similar to the previous point: without wanting to spoil anything, I’ll just say there were other instances where I did not understand the decision to trust certain individuals and it just felt a bit dissonant with Anais’s character…like she is so much smarter and more calculating than that.
-This isn’t a complaint but more of an observation—the blurb for this book on Goodreads seems to suggest that Castien is a mole of some sort who has been sent to seduce the Queen and infiltrate her court. If that was the plot then I totally missed it 😬
Overall would recommend!
TL;DR: it was fun, intriguing, and fast-paced and I would recommend! Be sure to check your triggers.
Full review:
In Shadows & Roses, our MMC Castien FitzUmbra—a member of the Night Court’s High House of Shadows—arrives at the royal court of Drantar to serve as a courtesan for a contracted period. Castien is extremely handsome and charming and an experienced and highly sought-after courtesan.
Castien grew up with common folk who despise the nobility and envision a future without the nobles in charge, but despite Castien’s lifelong friendship with these folks and his years of service in the Night Court, he is not fully prepared him for the viciousness and depravity of the royal court’s nobles (the female members of which literally have claws), nor for the extreme cruelty of Drantar’s sadistic Queen, Anais (our FMC). He quickly is forced to learn how to play the games necessary to survive at court, especially as he comes to know and understand Anais and her Inner Circle’s workings and motivations.
As Drantar teeters on the edge of war, and the politics and alliances are constantly shifting and changing, Castien’s and Anais’s trust—in themselves, each other, and everyone around them—is pushed to the limits.
This was a solid, shining 4 stars for me! Things I enjoyed:
-a matriarchal society where many people have never heard of a “king” and people aren’t weird about sex and sexuality 👸🙌
-a cunning, strategic, tough FMC who is a true survivor, fighter, and leader
-morally questionable characters who you care about and root for anyway
-court intrigue/politicking/secrets—how can you ever know who to trust?!
-angst/conflicted emotions/pining
-pacing—there were zero parts that dragged for me; this book was hard to put down and definitely kept me up later than I intended wanting just “one more chapter” 😅
-third person narration, alternating between Castien’s and Anais’s POV. This worked really well.
-cliffhanger ending shrouded in mystery—I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Things I struggled a bit with:
-I didn’t fully understand what initially led Anais to open up to or trust Castien; it seemed to happen quickly without him really being tested and I wish I could have read a little more about Cas’s first month at court and interactions with Anais to see this develop.
-Similar to the previous point: without wanting to spoil anything, I’ll just say there were other instances where I did not understand the decision to trust certain individuals and it just felt a bit dissonant with Anais’s character…like she is so much smarter and more calculating than that.
-This isn’t a complaint but more of an observation—the blurb for this book on Goodreads seems to suggest that Castien is a mole of some sort who has been sent to seduce the Queen and infiltrate her court. If that was the plot then I totally missed it 😬
Overall would recommend!
April 7, 2025
⭐️4.5
This was a ride from start to finish, Anais was a real dark horse and I would love to know what really happened to her mother. Castien is my favourite character by far! I need a word about that cliffhanger though 👀 that was evil! Need book 2 asap
This was a ride from start to finish, Anais was a real dark horse and I would love to know what really happened to her mother. Castien is my favourite character by far! I need a word about that cliffhanger though 👀 that was evil! Need book 2 asap
March 2, 2025
Sastri Sylvester’s Shadows and Roses is a gripping tale of intrigue, seduction, and revolution, set against the opulent yet corrupt backdrop of a royal court. The novel centers around Castien, known as the Prince of the Night, a master of manipulation whose latest mission involves the enigmatic and ruthless Queen Anais. Sylvester weaves a complex narrative that explores themes of power, betrayal, and the unexpected transformations of the heart.
Castien’s character is brilliantly crafted, embodying the dual nature of a spy and a seducer. His assignment to infiltrate the queen’s inner sanctum and uncover her secrets to aid the rebellion is fraught with danger and moral ambiguity. Sylvester excels in portraying Castien’s internal conflict as he navigates the treacherous waters of court politics and his growing feelings for Anais, which complicate his original intentions.
Queen Anais is an equally compelling character. Portrayed initially as a sadistic ruler, the layers of her personality are slowly peeled back to reveal a more complex and vulnerable figure. This gradual unveiling is one of the novel’s strengths, challenging the reader’s perceptions and sympathies as the story progresses.
The dynamic between Castien and Anais is the heart of the narrative, charged with tension and an intense, evolving connection. Their dance of seduction and deception is masterfully depicted, blending elements of danger with a poignant exploration of trust and redemption. Sylvester’s prose is lush and evocative, capturing the decadence of the court and the palpable emotions of the characters.
The plot of Shadows and Roses is tightly woven, with each twist and revelation driving the story forward compellingly. The stakes are high, and the pacing is skillfully managed to keep the tension consistently elevated. The political intrigue and the strategies of rebellion are well-developed, providing a strong backdrop for the personal drama between Castien and Anais.
However, the novel occasionally struggles with balancing its ambitious plot elements, particularly in the latter half where the romance begins to overshadow the political maneuverings. Some aspects of the rebellion could have been explored further to give more depth to the revolutionary cause and its impact on the wider world.
Despite these minor pacing issues, Shadows and Roses remains a highly engaging read. It is a story rich in drama and layered characterizations, offering a fresh take on the fantasy romance genre. Sylvester delivers a compelling mix of passion, danger, and intrigue that ensures readers are hooked from the first page to the last. This book is a solid four-star achievement, recommended for fans of complex romantic narratives set within a richly imagined political landscape.
Castien’s character is brilliantly crafted, embodying the dual nature of a spy and a seducer. His assignment to infiltrate the queen’s inner sanctum and uncover her secrets to aid the rebellion is fraught with danger and moral ambiguity. Sylvester excels in portraying Castien’s internal conflict as he navigates the treacherous waters of court politics and his growing feelings for Anais, which complicate his original intentions.
Queen Anais is an equally compelling character. Portrayed initially as a sadistic ruler, the layers of her personality are slowly peeled back to reveal a more complex and vulnerable figure. This gradual unveiling is one of the novel’s strengths, challenging the reader’s perceptions and sympathies as the story progresses.
The dynamic between Castien and Anais is the heart of the narrative, charged with tension and an intense, evolving connection. Their dance of seduction and deception is masterfully depicted, blending elements of danger with a poignant exploration of trust and redemption. Sylvester’s prose is lush and evocative, capturing the decadence of the court and the palpable emotions of the characters.
The plot of Shadows and Roses is tightly woven, with each twist and revelation driving the story forward compellingly. The stakes are high, and the pacing is skillfully managed to keep the tension consistently elevated. The political intrigue and the strategies of rebellion are well-developed, providing a strong backdrop for the personal drama between Castien and Anais.
However, the novel occasionally struggles with balancing its ambitious plot elements, particularly in the latter half where the romance begins to overshadow the political maneuverings. Some aspects of the rebellion could have been explored further to give more depth to the revolutionary cause and its impact on the wider world.
Despite these minor pacing issues, Shadows and Roses remains a highly engaging read. It is a story rich in drama and layered characterizations, offering a fresh take on the fantasy romance genre. Sylvester delivers a compelling mix of passion, danger, and intrigue that ensures readers are hooked from the first page to the last. This book is a solid four-star achievement, recommended for fans of complex romantic narratives set within a richly imagined political landscape.
March 24, 2025
I had totally different expectations for this book based on the blurb, and it ultimately fell short. The promise of “this game of seduction” was misleading; there is very little seduction to be found. In fact, only two scenes are mildly spicy, which was disappointing given that the protagonist is a courtesan. Instead of showcasing his experiences, the narrative focuses heavily on his healing journey after the t0rture he faced.
The blurb mentions that “he must slip into her heart and steal her secrets.” But what secrets are we talking about? Is it that she isn’t as cruel as she appears? Furthermore, the claim that “only then will the rebellion gain the edge they need to destroy the throne” feels unsubstantiated. The protagonist never reports back to anyone about these supposed secrets, and his involvement in the rebellion is virtually nonexistent.
The line “Dance with her. End her.” suggests a thrilling dynamic, yet while he does dance with her, he makes no real attempts to end her. He repeatedly emphasizes that he is a courtesan, not an assassin.
I anticipated a calculated, strong man who would seduce the Queen (those scenes laid out in detail) and extract secrets from her, but instead, he appears weak and unsure in her presence, relying on a guard for protection. Their love story lacks believability; they spend minimal time together and barely interact, yet somehow fall in love.
When I first encountered the mention of claws, I was confused. Were they real animal claws or metallic finger covers? There was no explanation until halfway through the book, which was less than satisfactory. Additionally, the world-building is lacking. While there’s ample discussion about manoeuvring within a royal court, it fails to delve into the specifics of the politics involved.
Anais’s reasoning for her cruelty didn’t resonate with me, and the epilogue felt like an attempt to set up a sequel when the story could have stood alone.
Interestingly, the book might have been more compelling if Damion had been the main male character. He has a clear agenda, stands in opposition to the Queen’s views, and has something to fight for.
Despite my criticisms, I read the book to the end. I believe I would have enjoyed it more if it had been marketed as a tale set in a cruel world where women dominate men, focusing on a t0rtured courtesan’s journey to rediscover love with an exceptional woman.
The blurb mentions that “he must slip into her heart and steal her secrets.” But what secrets are we talking about? Is it that she isn’t as cruel as she appears? Furthermore, the claim that “only then will the rebellion gain the edge they need to destroy the throne” feels unsubstantiated. The protagonist never reports back to anyone about these supposed secrets, and his involvement in the rebellion is virtually nonexistent.
The line “Dance with her. End her.” suggests a thrilling dynamic, yet while he does dance with her, he makes no real attempts to end her. He repeatedly emphasizes that he is a courtesan, not an assassin.
I anticipated a calculated, strong man who would seduce the Queen (those scenes laid out in detail) and extract secrets from her, but instead, he appears weak and unsure in her presence, relying on a guard for protection. Their love story lacks believability; they spend minimal time together and barely interact, yet somehow fall in love.
When I first encountered the mention of claws, I was confused. Were they real animal claws or metallic finger covers? There was no explanation until halfway through the book, which was less than satisfactory. Additionally, the world-building is lacking. While there’s ample discussion about manoeuvring within a royal court, it fails to delve into the specifics of the politics involved.
Anais’s reasoning for her cruelty didn’t resonate with me, and the epilogue felt like an attempt to set up a sequel when the story could have stood alone.
Interestingly, the book might have been more compelling if Damion had been the main male character. He has a clear agenda, stands in opposition to the Queen’s views, and has something to fight for.
Despite my criticisms, I read the book to the end. I believe I would have enjoyed it more if it had been marketed as a tale set in a cruel world where women dominate men, focusing on a t0rtured courtesan’s journey to rediscover love with an exceptional woman.
February 27, 2025
You know that feeling when you finish an amazing book, and you’re just so angry at the ending because it’s such a magnificent place to leave it, but it also happens to be a relatively big cliffhanger? That’s how Shadows and Roses by Sastri Sylvester made me feel.
I received an ARC of this novel, and as always, I am leaving my honest review of my own choice.
Now, jumping back to the beginning of the novel: The prologue had a very nice transition into chapter one, which is something I really appreciate, as I’ve read many prologues that didn’t seem to fit right timing-wise. From the start, this novel piqued my interest—I wanted to know what was going to happen, why certain things happened, what they were leading to, where the novel would end up by the end of the story, and others relating to those. And I was definitely not let down by the answer to each one.
The tension build-up between the main characters was wonderful. It was drawn out to an extent, but not overdrawn to the point it annoyed me. Everything seemed to fall into place as the novel went along. Character personalities were built properly, and each one had their own depth. The twists and turns had me gaping, and the writing quality was simply the cherry on top of this beautiful novel, landing itself at 4 1/2 stars. However, because most sites don’t allow a half star, I’ll be placing this read at 4 stars.
This novel easily gave me From Blood and Ash vibes, which made reading this that much better. I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read this novel, and I look forward to reading the following novels—which there has to be, because that ending enticed several questions and left me craving more. To anyone who happens to see my review: I recommend reading this!
I received an ARC of this novel, and as always, I am leaving my honest review of my own choice.
Now, jumping back to the beginning of the novel: The prologue had a very nice transition into chapter one, which is something I really appreciate, as I’ve read many prologues that didn’t seem to fit right timing-wise. From the start, this novel piqued my interest—I wanted to know what was going to happen, why certain things happened, what they were leading to, where the novel would end up by the end of the story, and others relating to those. And I was definitely not let down by the answer to each one.
The tension build-up between the main characters was wonderful. It was drawn out to an extent, but not overdrawn to the point it annoyed me. Everything seemed to fall into place as the novel went along. Character personalities were built properly, and each one had their own depth. The twists and turns had me gaping, and the writing quality was simply the cherry on top of this beautiful novel, landing itself at 4 1/2 stars. However, because most sites don’t allow a half star, I’ll be placing this read at 4 stars.
This novel easily gave me From Blood and Ash vibes, which made reading this that much better. I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read this novel, and I look forward to reading the following novels—which there has to be, because that ending enticed several questions and left me craving more. To anyone who happens to see my review: I recommend reading this!
February 6, 2025
“you belong to me and a dark queen does not relinquish that which is hers”
I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have received an E-ARC of Shadows and Roses from Sastri Sylvester. Shadows and Roses is a harrowing tale of a Cruel Queen, a vicious court and a courtesan who wants so badly to hate her. This book had so many plot twists I was left guessing all the way to the last page.
Sylvester nailed it with the exploration of power dynamics. The courtesan, who is at the mercy of those around him, uses his position to play the long game. His intelligence and emotional resilience add depth to his character, making him more than just a pawn in the queen’s web. Yet, as he becomes entangled in the queen's desires, it becomes clear that the lines between manipulation and genuine affection are perilously thin.
I felt like the world building was lacking which took away from the story for me a little. The court’s dark atmosphere and the oppressive weight of political intrigue could have had much greater emotional impact if the setting itself felt more alive. Instead, it often comes across to me as an abstract setting where the stakes, while high didn’t always feel grounded in a tangible world.
I was left with more questions than answers in the best possible way that makes me anticipate a sequel (please!) If you're a fan of morally complex characters, political intrigue, and dark romance, Shadows and Roses will captivate you with its twists and turns. Though it may not be for the faint of heart, the book is a compelling exploration of power, attraction, and survival in a world where trust is a rare commodity.
I am so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have received an E-ARC of Shadows and Roses from Sastri Sylvester. Shadows and Roses is a harrowing tale of a Cruel Queen, a vicious court and a courtesan who wants so badly to hate her. This book had so many plot twists I was left guessing all the way to the last page.
Sylvester nailed it with the exploration of power dynamics. The courtesan, who is at the mercy of those around him, uses his position to play the long game. His intelligence and emotional resilience add depth to his character, making him more than just a pawn in the queen’s web. Yet, as he becomes entangled in the queen's desires, it becomes clear that the lines between manipulation and genuine affection are perilously thin.
I felt like the world building was lacking which took away from the story for me a little. The court’s dark atmosphere and the oppressive weight of political intrigue could have had much greater emotional impact if the setting itself felt more alive. Instead, it often comes across to me as an abstract setting where the stakes, while high didn’t always feel grounded in a tangible world.
I was left with more questions than answers in the best possible way that makes me anticipate a sequel (please!) If you're a fan of morally complex characters, political intrigue, and dark romance, Shadows and Roses will captivate you with its twists and turns. Though it may not be for the faint of heart, the book is a compelling exploration of power, attraction, and survival in a world where trust is a rare commodity.
March 11, 2025
I really wanted to give this book 3 stars, but unfortunately it was just not for me. It was so confusing! So many things didn't make sense, and the world-building felt unfinished.
When I first read about the claws, I didn't know what to think. Were they real claws? Like animal claws? Were these people werewolves? Shapeshifters? Furries? Or were those claws like metal finger covers? There was zero explanation. I even went back to read the synopsis to see if I missed anything, and there was nothing. A very weak explanation was provided towards the end of the book, which felt less than satisfactory.
I couldn't bring myself to care about ANY of the characters. Castien was as developed as a tree in my backyard. Zero personality and likability. Same with Anais. Her reasoning for being cruel was not enough for me to believe any of it.
Their relationship? There was also very little development. How did they even fall in love if they barely even saw and interacted with each other??
The first part of the book completely went out of the window once he became an Escort. What was the point of introducing all these mad and cruel nobles if they didn't appear once in the next 2 parts?
The only time I cared for Castien was when the whole ordeal with Nadraken happened. I thought something crazy would come out of it...
I feel like the author really wanted it to be the next "Captive Prince" but unfortunately to me it just read too juvenile.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I first read about the claws, I didn't know what to think. Were they real claws? Like animal claws? Were these people werewolves? Shapeshifters? Furries? Or were those claws like metal finger covers? There was zero explanation. I even went back to read the synopsis to see if I missed anything, and there was nothing. A very weak explanation was provided towards the end of the book, which felt less than satisfactory.
I couldn't bring myself to care about ANY of the characters. Castien was as developed as a tree in my backyard. Zero personality and likability. Same with Anais. Her reasoning for being cruel was not enough for me to believe any of it.
Their relationship? There was also very little development. How did they even fall in love if they barely even saw and interacted with each other??
The first part of the book completely went out of the window once he became an Escort. What was the point of introducing all these mad and cruel nobles if they didn't appear once in the next 2 parts?
The only time I cared for Castien was when the whole ordeal with Nadraken happened. I thought something crazy would come out of it...
I feel like the author really wanted it to be the next "Captive Prince" but unfortunately to me it just read too juvenile.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2025
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
After finishing this book I fluctuated between giving it two or three stars. The book wasn’t necessarily bad, but it left a lot to be desired.
First of all, I loved Castien and Anias. But their love story felt rushed and underdeveloped. It was like I blinked and they were magically in love with each other. Give me tension, give me pining!
Also, the pacing of this book just wasn’t for me. I found myself not being immeshed in the story, putting the book down to scroll on my phone instead, and having difficulty picking the book up again.
And the epilogue just wasn’t for me I fear 🙂↔️ It was cheesy and seemed like a way to milk this for a second book when it could have been a stand alone.
The bones of this book were there for sure and it could have benefited from a good developmental edit.
After finishing this book I fluctuated between giving it two or three stars. The book wasn’t necessarily bad, but it left a lot to be desired.
First of all, I loved Castien and Anias. But their love story felt rushed and underdeveloped. It was like I blinked and they were magically in love with each other. Give me tension, give me pining!
Also, the pacing of this book just wasn’t for me. I found myself not being immeshed in the story, putting the book down to scroll on my phone instead, and having difficulty picking the book up again.
And the epilogue just wasn’t for me I fear 🙂↔️ It was cheesy and seemed like a way to milk this for a second book when it could have been a stand alone.
The bones of this book were there for sure and it could have benefited from a good developmental edit.
March 9, 2025
I just finished reading, and now I need the second book!!! That ending has me asking so many questions. I feel so bad for Cas he has just found his happiness again, and now what is going to happen to him. I love all the twists and turns in this book, but it is a dark romance, so check your triggers because there are a lot of dark themes that play out on page in this book.Okay huge spoiler alert here but i didnt see it beofe it happen but Vern in her father what!!! Loved that twist! And her great-aunt she had got to go there is something shady about her i can feel it. I like how it is the MMC that is broken in this book, and the FMC is the one to heal him that is a nice change. I would give this a 4/5🌶🔥🥵 on the spicy scale as well. All around, such a good book, and I will be looking for book 2! It's definitely worth the read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2025
I fell in love with Shadows and Roses immediately. The vocabulary alone was delicious (although Castien is pretty delicious, too). Getting to know Castien and Anais was a journey that took me everywhere, and I cannot wait for the next book to see where they take me next. (Actually, I'm terrified about what is going to happen next based on how this book ended. I'm impatient, though, and don't want to wait to find out!) I loved the "is this other shoe ever going to drop?!?" feeling I had with Damon, and I was heartbroken over what happened with Castien and Kevam. The way this story was woven together was beautiful. I'm mad it's over - for now.
January 25, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book captivated me from the first page! The story grabbed my attention effortlessly, making me root for the characters, get deeply invested in the plot, and gasp at the unexpected twists. The chemistry between Anais and Castian felt genuine, though their love seemed to develop a bit suddenly. I wish I could dive deeper without spoiling anything, but I adored all the characters, even the villains. Overall, I loved every aspect of this book and am eagerly awaiting book two!
This book captivated me from the first page! The story grabbed my attention effortlessly, making me root for the characters, get deeply invested in the plot, and gasp at the unexpected twists. The chemistry between Anais and Castian felt genuine, though their love seemed to develop a bit suddenly. I wish I could dive deeper without spoiling anything, but I adored all the characters, even the villains. Overall, I loved every aspect of this book and am eagerly awaiting book two!
March 9, 2025
Right from the first page you are hooked. I loved the opening scene so much. Nothing like a good death to get the story going. And a queen's death? Even better. The main characters' romance isn't rushed or instant love. There is thought put into it considering the complications of their lives. The pacing of the story is done well. The sharpness of the descriptions and dialogue complement each other. Highly recommend. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2025
Holy crap! This book was beyond amazing. I had previously received this as an advanced reader copy, and this is my absolute honest review. It had so many twists and turns, and as a long time reader I can usually see them coming. But wow, I could not put this book down. The dynamic between the characters was amazing. You don’t know whether to root for them or not. I have seriously never read a book like this. Easily one of my favorites I have ever read. It was dark, spicy, morally grey and all amazing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2025
Holy crap! I cannot believe how much I am in love with this story! It is one of the most unique and intriguing stories I have ever read! It is dark and twisted with a morally grey FMC, and I could not put this down! If you need to, review some of the trigger warnings first. But I personally did not have a problem with anything in this book. Again, it does get dark at times, but it is so so worth it!
February 23, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Overall I enjoyed the book and wanted to figure it out. There were moments where I was like what am I reading. Make sure to check your trigger warnings. I wasn’t triggered but I was like wtf?!
However I was sucked in and had to see how it played out. There were some areas that felt rushed others that felt drawn out. The ending though caught me off guard and I’m like ok going to need to read book 2.
Overall I enjoyed the book and wanted to figure it out. There were moments where I was like what am I reading. Make sure to check your trigger warnings. I wasn’t triggered but I was like wtf?!
However I was sucked in and had to see how it played out. There were some areas that felt rushed others that felt drawn out. The ending though caught me off guard and I’m like ok going to need to read book 2.
February 25, 2025
I genuinely adored this book! When I wasn’t reading, I was thinking about it!
I personally haven’t read something quite like this and it was so good in every aspect!
Trauma, pain, heartbreak, betrayal, love, slight spice, danger, loyalty! I could go on!
I absolutely love the way love and trust were intertwined in a world so cruel and bleak! And not just from the main characters! I can’t wait for book 2, and I hope to see more of Jerome and Madeline.
Also, the epilogue!! What!?!? Didn’t see that coming!
I personally haven’t read something quite like this and it was so good in every aspect!
Trauma, pain, heartbreak, betrayal, love, slight spice, danger, loyalty! I could go on!
I absolutely love the way love and trust were intertwined in a world so cruel and bleak! And not just from the main characters! I can’t wait for book 2, and I hope to see more of Jerome and Madeline.
Also, the epilogue!! What!?!? Didn’t see that coming!
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March 16, 2025Interesting concept, however I'm not a fan of the writing style.
Also, there was no introduction to the characters, heck I don't even know what the characters look like without a description.
It's like we were dropped into a political strife and we don't know which way's up or down.
Rather confusing, and several chapters in, we don't even see any romance or interaction between the MCs.
DROPPED.
Also, there was no introduction to the characters, heck I don't even know what the characters look like without a description.
It's like we were dropped into a political strife and we don't know which way's up or down.
Rather confusing, and several chapters in, we don't even see any romance or interaction between the MCs.
DROPPED.
March 20, 2025
I started out confused and although some of that cleared up as the book progressed some remained - like the fact that noblewomen are born with claws?!? Like what the heck is that? Why? Just why?
Other than this I appreciated the complex cast of characters and how the author was able to develop everyone. This made the story feel more real and deep than it would have otherwise.
In the end this was an enjoyable read - different but good.
Other than this I appreciated the complex cast of characters and how the author was able to develop everyone. This made the story feel more real and deep than it would have otherwise.
In the end this was an enjoyable read - different but good.
May 22, 2025
So, I didn’t hate it, but I’m not totally sure it was for me.
The first half felt pretty slow, and I struggled a bit with the MMC. He came off as super whiny for a good chunk of the book.
Some of the plot and wording felt really repetitive too. That said, the writing itself was beautiful. The imagery was vivid and made it really easy to picture both the characters and the world they lived in.
And I actually really liked how it ended…like super solid twist and cliffhanger.
The first half felt pretty slow, and I struggled a bit with the MMC. He came off as super whiny for a good chunk of the book.
Some of the plot and wording felt really repetitive too. That said, the writing itself was beautiful. The imagery was vivid and made it really easy to picture both the characters and the world they lived in.
And I actually really liked how it ended…like super solid twist and cliffhanger.
March 2, 2025
This book started off so confusing, for me. Some of the writing felt off to me (the style).
I still don’t understand the whole “claw” situation. How did the noble women get to be born with claws? Why only noble women?
There was a plot twist that kept my attention.
But I just felt that there wasn’t a whole lot going on. I didn’t feel any emotions such as anxiety, urgency, anger, as I do with other Romantasy books. Also, while there are some “explicit scenes” I felt like the spice level was low.
Also, make sure you read the content warnings beforehand.
I still don’t understand the whole “claw” situation. How did the noble women get to be born with claws? Why only noble women?
There was a plot twist that kept my attention.
But I just felt that there wasn’t a whole lot going on. I didn’t feel any emotions such as anxiety, urgency, anger, as I do with other Romantasy books. Also, while there are some “explicit scenes” I felt like the spice level was low.
Also, make sure you read the content warnings beforehand.
March 1, 2025
A gripping story full of intrigue, interesting characters and great world building. Anais became something different to what I was expecting from the beginning and Castien was likeable. Dark and twisted with pain, betrayal and danger.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2025
A gripping story by Sastri Sylvester that kept me glued to the book. I couldn't put it down. The story plot is full of twists, turns and surprises you don't see coming. The characters are all well developed and I found them all morally gray. Sastri's world building skills are extremely creative, immersive and brilliant. Beware this book has many trigger points, but still an absolute must read!
March 8, 2025
Just finished Shadows and Roses! Honestly I really enjoyed the story. It was much different than your usual romantic fantasy books. There were points while reading this that I had tears in my eyes. Really heart wrenching. I enjoyed the intrigue and build up for more in the series as well!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 30, 2025
I'm so conflicted about this book. I like how character driven it is and how dark the content is. However, I found myself skipping portions of it out of boredom and frustration. The parts I enjoyed were 5 star worthy. I think I'll come back and edit this review when I have more time to think over everything I just read.
March 31, 2025
I really enjoyed this as a dark fantasy element that I was looking for and enjoyed in this type of book. The characters were eveyrthing that I was hoping for and enjoyed getting into this world with them. It left me wanting to read more in this world and from Sastri Sylvester.
I received a free copy of this book for review and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received a free copy of this book for review and am voluntarily leaving a review
February 27, 2025
there was so much going on in this book! the story was so good though. from the way castien was trained to what he thought when he met the queen until the very last page...shew! but also the epilogue got me waiting for the 2nd book!
March 2, 2025
Trigger warning. Rough bdsm style, forced sexual acts, etc. At first, I struggled to get into this book, but I kept reading anyway. Then I started to really get into it once Castien was at the palace. The whole story thus far is intriguing, and I can't wait to find out what happens.
February 2, 2025
Absolutely could not put this book down! Dark and dirty with an amazing story line! You will not regret reading this!
February 22, 2025
i received a free arc of this book in exchange for a review, which will come shortly. i have many thoughts i need to organize so here's just the star rating for now.
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