What do you think?
Rate this book
The Dark Ascendant #2
Shattered Veil
I was thrown into a world of deadly dangers, but it’s betrayal that might destroy me.
The Council’s grip tightens, enemies close in, and my fated mates are the only ones I can turn to—except when I can’t. One of them hates me, and another, with his dark secrets, is impossible to trust. Yet I can’t deny the pull I feel toward both of them.
As I uncover forbidden truths about the Morrigan’s prophecy and the Council’s plans for me, I’m thrust into deadly trials designed to break me. The Harrowing looms—a test of magic, strength, and survival—and some are determined to see me fail. But it’s the betrayal of someone I once trusted that cuts the deepest, shattering my trust and leaving me vulnerable.
The greatest threat, however, isn’t the trials or even the Council—it’s what’s inside me. The darkness is rising, and if I lose control, I could destroy everyone I care about, including the five men I’m starting to love.
When betrayal strikes and the prophecy takes hold, I’ll have to make a fight for who I am or surrender to the destiny trying to claim me. But will it be enough to face what’s coming next?
Shattered Veil is the second book in the Dark Ascendent trilogy, a spicy Paranormal Reverse Harem Academy Romance with why choose, shadow magic, and dominant MMCs. No mm. Book one, Shadowed Fate, should be read first.
The Council’s grip tightens, enemies close in, and my fated mates are the only ones I can turn to—except when I can’t. One of them hates me, and another, with his dark secrets, is impossible to trust. Yet I can’t deny the pull I feel toward both of them.
As I uncover forbidden truths about the Morrigan’s prophecy and the Council’s plans for me, I’m thrust into deadly trials designed to break me. The Harrowing looms—a test of magic, strength, and survival—and some are determined to see me fail. But it’s the betrayal of someone I once trusted that cuts the deepest, shattering my trust and leaving me vulnerable.
The greatest threat, however, isn’t the trials or even the Council—it’s what’s inside me. The darkness is rising, and if I lose control, I could destroy everyone I care about, including the five men I’m starting to love.
When betrayal strikes and the prophecy takes hold, I’ll have to make a fight for who I am or surrender to the destiny trying to claim me. But will it be enough to face what’s coming next?
Shattered Veil is the second book in the Dark Ascendent trilogy, a spicy Paranormal Reverse Harem Academy Romance with why choose, shadow magic, and dominant MMCs. No mm. Book one, Shadowed Fate, should be read first.
- GenresFantasyParanormal
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2025
499 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
Rowan Shane
8 books25 followersRowan Shane is an author of steamy romance. When she's not writing about protective guys and the women who have their hearts, you can find her curled up with a good book, experimenting with new recipes, or planning her next adventure.
Rowan loves connecting with her readers and sharing her passion for all things romance. If you crave dominant heroes, real heroines who can hold their own, and scorching hot scenes, then her books are for you.
Prepare for possessive alphas, undeniable attraction, a few cliffhangers, and a whole lot of happily ever afters.
Rowan loves connecting with her readers and sharing her passion for all things romance. If you crave dominant heroes, real heroines who can hold their own, and scorching hot scenes, then her books are for you.
Prepare for possessive alphas, undeniable attraction, a few cliffhangers, and a whole lot of happily ever afters.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
August 14, 2025
3.5 ☆
i liked this one more, it just felt like things were actually happening. i don’t feel super connected to any of the characters but we committed :)
i liked this one more, it just felt like things were actually happening. i don’t feel super connected to any of the characters but we committed :)
March 21, 2025
maybe 2.5
I thought the first book was way better. I felt Brigid to turned into a terribly weak, annoying character, and her relations with Marius in the beginning made me livid. The relationships felt a bit more realistic in the first book, whereas in this one they felt ridiculous.
Every spice scene was weird and placed awkwardly in the story, I ended up skipping them because they took away from the story instead of adding to it which was disappointing because I don’t normally read books without spice and having to avoid it to make the story work better for agitated me.
The mean girl adds nothing to the story, and is done in an obvious cheap manner.
I’m not sure if it’s this book or the one before where Lochan is written as Logan.
Brigid is a character that says a lot but does nothing. I felt more regression than growth.
I thought the first book was way better. I felt Brigid to turned into a terribly weak, annoying character, and her relations with Marius in the beginning made me livid. The relationships felt a bit more realistic in the first book, whereas in this one they felt ridiculous.
Every spice scene was weird and placed awkwardly in the story, I ended up skipping them because they took away from the story instead of adding to it which was disappointing because I don’t normally read books without spice and having to avoid it to make the story work better for agitated me.
The mean girl adds nothing to the story, and is done in an obvious cheap manner.
I’m not sure if it’s this book or the one before where Lochan is written as Logan.
Brigid is a character that says a lot but does nothing. I felt more regression than growth.
January 28, 2025
Book 2 is so fast-paced and unravels so many secrets. We face the Harrowing, 3 trials meant to test each student.
More secrets are revealed about Grimstone Academy, however, we are left with some new burning questions like, will we get Brigid back? What will Marius do now that he admitted his feelings to himself? Will the boys get along and work things out to bring her back? Or will they fail?
More secrets, more half-truths, some backstabbing from those you least expect. This book has everything you need and Rowan added more SPICE 🌶🌶🌶🌶 with this tasty second installment of the Trilogy.
Welcome to Grimstone Academy...
More secrets are revealed about Grimstone Academy, however, we are left with some new burning questions like, will we get Brigid back? What will Marius do now that he admitted his feelings to himself? Will the boys get along and work things out to bring her back? Or will they fail?
More secrets, more half-truths, some backstabbing from those you least expect. This book has everything you need and Rowan added more SPICE 🌶🌶🌶🌶 with this tasty second installment of the Trilogy.
Welcome to Grimstone Academy...
January 30, 2025
so intense!
Book two in the Dark Ascendant series was just as incredible as book one, but with a whole lot more spice! It was intriguing to watch the plot play out, the characters secrets revealing pieces of the puzzle as it progressed. I’m excited to see what happens next between Brigid and her men! They deserve a chance at a happily ever after!
Book two in the Dark Ascendant series was just as incredible as book one, but with a whole lot more spice! It was intriguing to watch the plot play out, the characters secrets revealing pieces of the puzzle as it progressed. I’m excited to see what happens next between Brigid and her men! They deserve a chance at a happily ever after!
February 2, 2025
Book2 in The Dark Ascendent Trilogy was just as good as book1 Great plot/spice
Bridgid is learning who she is and what she can do. Of course having 5 mates helps with your survival.
🔥Paranormal Academy
🔥Why Choose
🔥Shadow Magic
Bridgid is learning who she is and what she can do. Of course having 5 mates helps with your survival.
🔥Paranormal Academy
🔥Why Choose
🔥Shadow Magic
February 5, 2025
OMG! This book was amazing! I was worried that I wouldn't enjoy this one as much as the first, but I think it was even better! The mystery, challenges, and the spice 🌶🌶🌶 kept me on the edge of my seat! I am counting down the days until the next book releases!
I received a copy of the book and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
I received a copy of the book and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
February 1, 2025
Who to trust and who to not trust? That is the question. And the twist of who not to trust - OMG! I need book 3 now!
June 3, 2025
Sigh
I had such high hopes for this series. But, I've been left disappointed. I'm disappointed in Brigid. She's just so weak minded and SLOW! Take for instance the arguments with Laria. Brigid just lets that girl call her names and demean her in front of other people. Then, she starts second guessing herself before actually opening her mouth to defend herself. It's like, how many times are you just going to let that chick talk to you like that before you stop the conversation before it starts? Then Brigid goes to sulk and self reflect on what that loser told her. It's like she's constantly concerned with what others think of her. Her desperation stinks and is getting old. I wanted to see her character grow, but she's barely shown any growth. She has worked on getting stronger physically and a little with her magic. Overall though, her personality and character haven't changed at all. The scene at the end with the Morgana's proved how weak Brigid is. She's all, "Yeah, I'm so tired. It would be so easy to give in." Yep, she's got no reason to want to live or have her own destiny. Obviously the guys have not done their jobs in convincing her that they are her mates and think highly of her. 🙄 I'm just tired if her being a sniveling, weak character.
Lets move on to the guys. The only guy worth anything is Rory. The rest of them are morons. Supposedly they are these magically strong guys, but I'm not seeing that magical strength any time that actually requires it. Sure they show power when they're sneaking around. But never when in self defense. So what's the point of being powerful if it's not enough?
I'll read the last book because I want to see what happens, but I certainly hope something positive happens because this sucks!
I had such high hopes for this series. But, I've been left disappointed. I'm disappointed in Brigid. She's just so weak minded and SLOW! Take for instance the arguments with Laria. Brigid just lets that girl call her names and demean her in front of other people. Then, she starts second guessing herself before actually opening her mouth to defend herself. It's like, how many times are you just going to let that chick talk to you like that before you stop the conversation before it starts? Then Brigid goes to sulk and self reflect on what that loser told her. It's like she's constantly concerned with what others think of her. Her desperation stinks and is getting old. I wanted to see her character grow, but she's barely shown any growth. She has worked on getting stronger physically and a little with her magic. Overall though, her personality and character haven't changed at all. The scene at the end with the Morgana's proved how weak Brigid is. She's all, "Yeah, I'm so tired. It would be so easy to give in." Yep, she's got no reason to want to live or have her own destiny. Obviously the guys have not done their jobs in convincing her that they are her mates and think highly of her. 🙄 I'm just tired if her being a sniveling, weak character.
Lets move on to the guys. The only guy worth anything is Rory. The rest of them are morons. Supposedly they are these magically strong guys, but I'm not seeing that magical strength any time that actually requires it. Sure they show power when they're sneaking around. But never when in self defense. So what's the point of being powerful if it's not enough?
I'll read the last book because I want to see what happens, but I certainly hope something positive happens because this sucks!
June 22, 2025
3 stars feels generous
But I will read the last book to see if this was just a case of the book 2 curse.
Perhaps if this was set up as high school aged students running into the issues we see here this would read better for me but the lack of critical thinking by ANY of the main characters is astonishing…
This is a why choose where I personally felt there was NO building relationships happening. It was just the ole ‘fated mates’ made us undeniably attracted to one another. The pull is so strong I CANNOT RESIST HER…but she is about as interesting as a piece of unbuttered wet toast. 🥴
I also don’t see why she trusted her friend who she barely spoke with..ever..with her biggest most important secret……….but sure.
The ending was disappointing and unsurprising. As I write this review I realize I may not move onto book 3 since I have soooo many books to read. If I wait to read it when I need a short book or am perhaps more receptive to finding out the ending for the trilogy - I will likely forget all about the details (or lack there of) and won’t be able to get into it. Sometimes, I hate a book so much though that I remember in explicit detail why I hated it. Time will tell.
But I will read the last book to see if this was just a case of the book 2 curse.
Perhaps if this was set up as high school aged students running into the issues we see here this would read better for me but the lack of critical thinking by ANY of the main characters is astonishing…
This is a why choose where I personally felt there was NO building relationships happening. It was just the ole ‘fated mates’ made us undeniably attracted to one another. The pull is so strong I CANNOT RESIST HER…but she is about as interesting as a piece of unbuttered wet toast. 🥴
I also don’t see why she trusted her friend who she barely spoke with..ever..with her biggest most important secret……….but sure.
The ending was disappointing and unsurprising. As I write this review I realize I may not move onto book 3 since I have soooo many books to read. If I wait to read it when I need a short book or am perhaps more receptive to finding out the ending for the trilogy - I will likely forget all about the details (or lack there of) and won’t be able to get into it. Sometimes, I hate a book so much though that I remember in explicit detail why I hated it. Time will tell.
March 2, 2025
The Dark Ascendant #2 is another thrilling installment in the Shattered Veil series, delivering all the spice and magic fans of paranormal reverse harem romance crave. This book has everything: shadow magic, dominant MMCs, a "good girl" heroine, and the why choose dynamic that keeps the tension high. The writing is sharp and immersive, making it impossible to put down once you’re hooked.
If you’ve read Shadowed Fate, you’ll definitely want to dive into this sequel, as it continues the story seamlessly, adding a huge twist that will leave you gasping—and of course, a cliffhanger that will have you counting down the days until the next book. The plot keeps you on your toes, with great characters that each bring something unique to the table. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the twists only make the story more addictive.
The Dark Ascendant #2 offers a fantastic continuation to a series filled with compelling characters, intricate world-building, and a plot that will keep you entertained and hooked from start to finish. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves paranormal reverse harem romance with a bit of darkness and plenty of heat!
If you’ve read Shadowed Fate, you’ll definitely want to dive into this sequel, as it continues the story seamlessly, adding a huge twist that will leave you gasping—and of course, a cliffhanger that will have you counting down the days until the next book. The plot keeps you on your toes, with great characters that each bring something unique to the table. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the twists only make the story more addictive.
The Dark Ascendant #2 offers a fantastic continuation to a series filled with compelling characters, intricate world-building, and a plot that will keep you entertained and hooked from start to finish. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves paranormal reverse harem romance with a bit of darkness and plenty of heat!
November 10, 2025
2 ⭐️
Again, I feel like this might be generous. There’s potential in this series. It’s a cool concept, really, but the execution is less than desirable. It reads as a smutty book but there’s a plot too…which normally is good. But the plot is developed so poorly. They’re at an academy, there’s a testing event…but she almost never goes to class? And even when she’s in class, it’s focused on a boy vs. actually learning. Other than a training session turned fuck session, this girl isn’t learning anything but somehow her powers are progressing.
There’s several plot holes that make literally no sense. Like Marius using his magic around students…but he’s in hiding of his powers. And they just don’t question it? Or intense discussions and then boom new chapter and it’s like what tf happened?
Lastly, this book needs an edit. There’s extra words mingled into so many sentences. It’s infuriating.
The only thing redeeming this is some groveling from one of the men + the ending. Otherwise, kinda hot garbage.
Again, I feel like this might be generous. There’s potential in this series. It’s a cool concept, really, but the execution is less than desirable. It reads as a smutty book but there’s a plot too…which normally is good. But the plot is developed so poorly. They’re at an academy, there’s a testing event…but she almost never goes to class? And even when she’s in class, it’s focused on a boy vs. actually learning. Other than a training session turned fuck session, this girl isn’t learning anything but somehow her powers are progressing.
There’s several plot holes that make literally no sense. Like Marius using his magic around students…but he’s in hiding of his powers. And they just don’t question it? Or intense discussions and then boom new chapter and it’s like what tf happened?
Lastly, this book needs an edit. There’s extra words mingled into so many sentences. It’s infuriating.
The only thing redeeming this is some groveling from one of the men + the ending. Otherwise, kinda hot garbage.
August 19, 2025
6 chapters in DNF
*Medium spoilers* If you don’t like:
MMCs making decisions about/for the FMC without consulting her
Then lying to her/not filling her in
MMCs pretend pursuing the FMCs enemy
FMC being unable to “resist” the bonds even when the MMC(s) piss her off
This is not the book for you. If you don’t mind all of them, then read on. Super disappointed, I thought at the end of book 1 the MMCs were starting to get their heads out of their asses. Nope.
*Medium spoilers* If you don’t like:
MMCs making decisions about/for the FMC without consulting her
Then lying to her/not filling her in
MMCs pretend pursuing the FMCs enemy
FMC being unable to “resist” the bonds even when the MMC(s) piss her off
This is not the book for you. If you don’t mind all of them, then read on. Super disappointed, I thought at the end of book 1 the MMCs were starting to get their heads out of their asses. Nope.
February 18, 2025
Good Read
Another book with a fantastic storyline and a huge twist at the end with a cliffhanger that has me hoping the end of the month comes sooner rather than later. The story was addictive and I really enjoyed reading it, although I had my suspicions on how things would go but not all the things I thought would happen did. I would recommend giving this book a read.
Another book with a fantastic storyline and a huge twist at the end with a cliffhanger that has me hoping the end of the month comes sooner rather than later. The story was addictive and I really enjoyed reading it, although I had my suspicions on how things would go but not all the things I thought would happen did. I would recommend giving this book a read.
March 17, 2025
This is Book 2 of the Dark Ascendant Series. I jumped back into the story and the character's lives right from the start and had a hard time putting the book down. Great characters, Great storyline. I can't wait to read more.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 10, 2025
Meh
Seemed like, at times, the relationships and plot were pushed along by skipping crucial conversations or events and later introducing them as givens. Two books into the 3 book series and I still feel no connection to the FMC or her harem. The characters are flat and lack the chemistry expected between love interests. Glad the books are free for kindleunlimited users.
Seemed like, at times, the relationships and plot were pushed along by skipping crucial conversations or events and later introducing them as givens. Two books into the 3 book series and I still feel no connection to the FMC or her harem. The characters are flat and lack the chemistry expected between love interests. Glad the books are free for kindleunlimited users.
January 31, 2025
Book 2 of the trilogy ups the ante on the steam, hidden secrets and twists, and you don't know which player is friend or foe any more. It ends on a huge cliffhanger and I can't wait for book 3 to see how it all ends.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2025
I love book two just as much as book 1. Book 2 has more spice and intensity and is so well written that you can easily jump back into the story. Trust is an issue, but you have to watch it play out!!
February 9, 2025
A riveting story that was captivating in its delivery. I loved the emotional turmoil. I loved the drama that had me glued to the pages of this book. I loved how the story evolved.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2025
😻
This book is very intriguing! I'm curious as to how they get her back! I really hope it's not to painful foe alk of them! The thing with Markus I MI CA saw coming. Just not in that regard!
This book is very intriguing! I'm curious as to how they get her back! I really hope it's not to painful foe alk of them! The thing with Markus I MI CA saw coming. Just not in that regard!
July 3, 2025
Good but missing something
It was good but I feel like I am missing something. It has action, betrayal, and some messed up crap. I don’t know how I feel about this story. It sort of went off into left field.
It was good but I feel like I am missing something. It has action, betrayal, and some messed up crap. I don’t know how I feel about this story. It sort of went off into left field.
March 5, 2025
Pretty good!
It picked up great from the first book. I'd rate a 4.5 something felt like it was missing not sure what. But pretty good.
It picked up great from the first book. I'd rate a 4.5 something felt like it was missing not sure what. But pretty good.
May 1, 2025
Power Unlimited
She's fighting for her life in a battle of magic. But the darkness is coming closer as the prophecy unfolds and the lines are drawn in the sand.
She's fighting for her life in a battle of magic. But the darkness is coming closer as the prophecy unfolds and the lines are drawn in the sand.
June 10, 2025
The Morrigan
Crazy crazy story this time around. Finding out more and more of what’s going on. I love the change of heart two of them had. But I’m afraid it’s too little too late.
Crazy crazy story this time around. Finding out more and more of what’s going on. I love the change of heart two of them had. But I’m afraid it’s too little too late.
June 22, 2025
I just lost interest, there were too many random spicy scenes
Read
August 22, 2025🟢 This is a reverse harem 🟢
November 9, 2025
This series just feels kind of…empty. I’m finishing it because I want to know how it ends but I wouldn’t say I’m thoroughly enjoying it. It’s just missing some essential spark.
December 8, 2025
Ok this book was much better than the first for me. Characters seem more established, and the story is moving along regarding Brigid and the prophecy. There are some revelations that blow the minds of the characters and ends on a cliffhanger. I do think some of the spicy scenes seem a little random to the story line but not so distracting I can't enjoy them or the story. I do plan on finishing the series at this point, which I wasn't sure of when I finished book 1.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews