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Blade of Shadows #0.5
Rise of the Shadow Lords
The highly anticipated Prequel to the Blade of Shadows series...
They will rise together. They will fall together. And they will die together.
Bound by fate and fractured by betrayal, Salvatore and Lazarus are thrust into the Shadow Lord Trials—a brutal gauntlet that promises freedom and unimaginable power but demands sacrifice at every turn. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, they must confront the horrors around them and the shadows within.
Before the darkness consumed the world, it consumed them.
In a world where betrayal cuts deeper than steel and truth is as deadly as any blade, their bond will be forged in fire and broken in blood.
This is where legends are born. This is where the darkness begins. This is Rise of the Shadow Lords.
They will rise together. They will fall together. And they will die together.
Bound by fate and fractured by betrayal, Salvatore and Lazarus are thrust into the Shadow Lord Trials—a brutal gauntlet that promises freedom and unimaginable power but demands sacrifice at every turn. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, they must confront the horrors around them and the shadows within.
Before the darkness consumed the world, it consumed them.
In a world where betrayal cuts deeper than steel and truth is as deadly as any blade, their bond will be forged in fire and broken in blood.
This is where legends are born. This is where the darkness begins. This is Rise of the Shadow Lords.
534 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 25, 2026
Okay!
I needed to give myself a day to wrap my head around this one!
I was delighted to receive an ARC copy to jump into world before I continue the series!
The story is a prequel and does a really job of jumping into the plot, the action, and from there on out there isn’t a missing piece of action. I wanted these characters to get like more than one minute of peace before the next life altering challenge. 😉
Fast paced, a hard story line to continue wanting to root for both characters but Sara did it so well I really wanted to see redemption for Salvatore, Amara, and Lazarus.
I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series to see how these characters are reflected within the universe and how the backstory can be appreciated even more!
I needed to give myself a day to wrap my head around this one!
I was delighted to receive an ARC copy to jump into world before I continue the series!
The story is a prequel and does a really job of jumping into the plot, the action, and from there on out there isn’t a missing piece of action. I wanted these characters to get like more than one minute of peace before the next life altering challenge. 😉
Fast paced, a hard story line to continue wanting to root for both characters but Sara did it so well I really wanted to see redemption for Salvatore, Amara, and Lazarus.
I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series to see how these characters are reflected within the universe and how the backstory can be appreciated even more!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Short review:
Well written, exciting universe, great characters and overall entertaining and exciting. It's easy to follow the story and understand the characters. It's impossible to put this book down!
Longer review here:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 - Highly recommended for all adult readers - especially dark fantasy lovers!! 🔥⭐
I was lucky to be an ARC reader on this book and what an experience it was! This is most
definitely one of my absolute favourite books ever! I’m reading this again soon! ✨🔥
In a world of shadow and darkness, two friends are fated to set out on a dark and dangerous
journey. They are put through things no one should ever endure. It’s a test of friendship as
much as a battle against their own dark sides. They must face fears that are greater than it’s
possible to imagine – unless of course you’re Sara Samuels who wrote this book 😉
Nothing is what it seems, and different pieces of the puzzle are revealed throughout each
book in this series; Blade of Shadows so I HIGHLY recommend continuing with the rest of the
series after reading this wonderful book 😉
Be prepared to smile, gasp in shock and surprise, cry your heart out and cheer heroes on.
This book is IMPOSSIBLE to put down and the characters will live rent free in your head long after finishing it!
I loved every second of this book – from how the characters are described to the world
building and the way the magic works. And most of all – I love that the villains are written in a way that makes you understand them – they are not evil just because. For some of them it needs a little reading on in the series though before this is revealed and this works so very well! 😉
And the cover! It’s soooo beautiful! Just like the writing! 🥺♥️
Well written, exciting universe, great characters and overall entertaining and exciting. It's easy to follow the story and understand the characters. It's impossible to put this book down!
Longer review here:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 - Highly recommended for all adult readers - especially dark fantasy lovers!! 🔥⭐
I was lucky to be an ARC reader on this book and what an experience it was! This is most
definitely one of my absolute favourite books ever! I’m reading this again soon! ✨🔥
In a world of shadow and darkness, two friends are fated to set out on a dark and dangerous
journey. They are put through things no one should ever endure. It’s a test of friendship as
much as a battle against their own dark sides. They must face fears that are greater than it’s
possible to imagine – unless of course you’re Sara Samuels who wrote this book 😉
Nothing is what it seems, and different pieces of the puzzle are revealed throughout each
book in this series; Blade of Shadows so I HIGHLY recommend continuing with the rest of the
series after reading this wonderful book 😉
Be prepared to smile, gasp in shock and surprise, cry your heart out and cheer heroes on.
This book is IMPOSSIBLE to put down and the characters will live rent free in your head long after finishing it!
I loved every second of this book – from how the characters are described to the world
building and the way the magic works. And most of all – I love that the villains are written in a way that makes you understand them – they are not evil just because. For some of them it needs a little reading on in the series though before this is revealed and this works so very well! 😉
And the cover! It’s soooo beautiful! Just like the writing! 🥺♥️
February 3, 2026
I could not put this down! I loved the amount of detail that went into every aspect of this book. I cannot wait to dive into the rest of this series!
February 10, 2026
I was very fortunate to receive this ARC. The writing was very strong and I definitely saw improvement from the first book. At times, it did feel a little repetitive but overall it was very good. I'm giving 3 stars only because I don't think the story was for me. I enjoy reading about strong FMCs so maybe if I had read the rest of the series I would have been more invested in the male characters.
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Once again Sara Samuels delivers an amazing origin story that ties in wonderfully with the already written books, while still providing a new and fresh storyline, new insights to characters, and new, vivid world building that expands on the incredible universe she has already created. While the 7th book written in the Blade of Shadows series, it is a prequel taking place from the very beginning. If you haven’t read this series yet, I am not sure I would say start with this or read in publication order. I don’t think either will make the storyline any better, but I loved getting to see this different side of things when I was so deep into this series already.
Salvatore and Lazarus are on opposite sides of a coin. One born into privilege, the other a life full of responsibilities, they still cultivate a friendship that is deep rooted, loyal, and shared life goals. When a chance arises for them to earn what they want most out of life, they are met with both failure and victory. The situation brings out something in each of them, but whether it is good or bad, you will have to read the book to find out.
When wrongly accused of a crime, they are taken away to a prison that starts them on the journey to become what they are known for later on. Having to gain control of their shadows is their way to survive, but it opens up a new world for them. Full of power, betrayal, and emotion, their journey is not an easy one to read, but brings clarification and understanding to the other books.
The intensity that Sara is able to provide in her books is outstanding. Where I didn’t think I could be surprised, I was. Sara took characters that you have seen one way and completely turned the tables on how you view them. Watching how their choices crept into the small spaces, changing them from the inside out. A wonderful and needed addition to this series, bringing new depths and complexities to characters you should dislike, but aren’t sure you can anymore. I am excited to see where the series goes from here.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
💀Best Friend to Enemies
✨Underground Prison
💀Dark Prophecy
✨Dark Fantasy
💀Trials of Ascension
✨Fate Twisted Bond
Once again Sara Samuels delivers an amazing origin story that ties in wonderfully with the already written books, while still providing a new and fresh storyline, new insights to characters, and new, vivid world building that expands on the incredible universe she has already created. While the 7th book written in the Blade of Shadows series, it is a prequel taking place from the very beginning. If you haven’t read this series yet, I am not sure I would say start with this or read in publication order. I don’t think either will make the storyline any better, but I loved getting to see this different side of things when I was so deep into this series already.
Salvatore and Lazarus are on opposite sides of a coin. One born into privilege, the other a life full of responsibilities, they still cultivate a friendship that is deep rooted, loyal, and shared life goals. When a chance arises for them to earn what they want most out of life, they are met with both failure and victory. The situation brings out something in each of them, but whether it is good or bad, you will have to read the book to find out.
When wrongly accused of a crime, they are taken away to a prison that starts them on the journey to become what they are known for later on. Having to gain control of their shadows is their way to survive, but it opens up a new world for them. Full of power, betrayal, and emotion, their journey is not an easy one to read, but brings clarification and understanding to the other books.
The intensity that Sara is able to provide in her books is outstanding. Where I didn’t think I could be surprised, I was. Sara took characters that you have seen one way and completely turned the tables on how you view them. Watching how their choices crept into the small spaces, changing them from the inside out. A wonderful and needed addition to this series, bringing new depths and complexities to characters you should dislike, but aren’t sure you can anymore. I am excited to see where the series goes from here.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
💀Best Friend to Enemies
✨Underground Prison
💀Dark Prophecy
✨Dark Fantasy
💀Trials of Ascension
✨Fate Twisted Bond
Review of advance copy received from Author
IF you have not started reading the Blade of Shadows series yet, DON'T WAIT ANOTHER MINUTE!! This romantasy series will take you on a wild ride with more twists and turns than any roller coaster you have ever ridden, and leave you asking for more!
"Why were these blades created?" you may ask yourself.
Rise of the Shadow Lords takes you to the very beginning of this series. Shadows are everywhere, and within those shadows lie powers that shape future outcomes. Those who can control the shadows are found within the pages of this book. It follows two friends that endure the unthinkable to ascend to the title of Shadow Lord.
Nearly 1200 years BCE, Salvatore and Lazarus grew up with different backgrounds; one filled with privileges and the other with responsibilities. The different backgrounds did not stop them from becoming friends dedicated to each other. Salvatore's father had high hopes for him, but he could never quite match up. Lazarus never knew who his father was, outside of the stories his mother would tell him. Both were given a chance to make a name for themself, and earn quite a bit of coin in doing so. Salvatore was supposed to be the hero, finally winning his father's respect, but his ego and pride got in the way. Lazarus ultimately completed the mission through tactful decision-making and his ruthless skills, disposing of the leader of an opposing army.
The victory is short-lived as unfortunate events find both of them charged for crimes they did not commit. Salvatore and Lazarus are taken to the most feared prison with an equally fearsome name: the Dreadhold - "a place where desolation and despair didn't just exist, they thrived."
Once inside, they were given a way out. But to win that way out, they had to complete a set of trials that would culminate in their ability to control the shadows. But at what cost?
To find out, you will just need to pick up this book to find out. The Rise of the Shadow Lords will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what comes next. It will have you rooting for Salvatore and Lazarus, and yelling at them in the next breath.
"Why were these blades created?" you may ask yourself.
Rise of the Shadow Lords takes you to the very beginning of this series. Shadows are everywhere, and within those shadows lie powers that shape future outcomes. Those who can control the shadows are found within the pages of this book. It follows two friends that endure the unthinkable to ascend to the title of Shadow Lord.
Nearly 1200 years BCE, Salvatore and Lazarus grew up with different backgrounds; one filled with privileges and the other with responsibilities. The different backgrounds did not stop them from becoming friends dedicated to each other. Salvatore's father had high hopes for him, but he could never quite match up. Lazarus never knew who his father was, outside of the stories his mother would tell him. Both were given a chance to make a name for themself, and earn quite a bit of coin in doing so. Salvatore was supposed to be the hero, finally winning his father's respect, but his ego and pride got in the way. Lazarus ultimately completed the mission through tactful decision-making and his ruthless skills, disposing of the leader of an opposing army.
The victory is short-lived as unfortunate events find both of them charged for crimes they did not commit. Salvatore and Lazarus are taken to the most feared prison with an equally fearsome name: the Dreadhold - "a place where desolation and despair didn't just exist, they thrived."
Once inside, they were given a way out. But to win that way out, they had to complete a set of trials that would culminate in their ability to control the shadows. But at what cost?
To find out, you will just need to pick up this book to find out. The Rise of the Shadow Lords will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what comes next. It will have you rooting for Salvatore and Lazarus, and yelling at them in the next breath.
February 10, 2026
I had been putting off starting the Blade of Shadows series, mainly because it's such a large series to dig into, but I jumped on the chance to receive an eARC copy of Rise of the Shadow Lords thinking the origin novel would be a great jumping off point. I had previously read a series summary, but other than that I really didn't know a lot about the series. When I say I had no idea what to expect going into this book—I really had no idea what to expect going into this book. This was no easy peasy, sit down and breeze through it, fun and relaxing, beach read kind of book. This was a grab hold of me and don't let go, deeply intense, heart wrenchingly dark fantasy kind of book. And I loved every minute of it.
The world building is incredible. Exquisite even. Want to get lost in another place? Another time? Another world? Sara Samuels knows how to take you there. This may sound silly, but I'm going to say it anyway—one time I started reading, and then started laughing as I imagined one of those movies where the narrator is talking and fades out as the movie action fades in and takes over and realized that's how it always seemed every time I was reading the book. Like everything around me just fades away and I am transported into that world because the descriptions are that powerful.
I don't want to give any spoilers, but will say that this book is an incredible starting point for anyone who hasn't started the series. The origin story of Salvatore and Lazarus—two men who are chosen family, closer than brothers. It's an emotional story of jealousy, bitterness, friendship, love, anger, suffering, hope, survival, and betrayal. It's got it all. And I can't wait to keep reading to find out what happens next...
The world building is incredible. Exquisite even. Want to get lost in another place? Another time? Another world? Sara Samuels knows how to take you there. This may sound silly, but I'm going to say it anyway—one time I started reading, and then started laughing as I imagined one of those movies where the narrator is talking and fades out as the movie action fades in and takes over and realized that's how it always seemed every time I was reading the book. Like everything around me just fades away and I am transported into that world because the descriptions are that powerful.
I don't want to give any spoilers, but will say that this book is an incredible starting point for anyone who hasn't started the series. The origin story of Salvatore and Lazarus—two men who are chosen family, closer than brothers. It's an emotional story of jealousy, bitterness, friendship, love, anger, suffering, hope, survival, and betrayal. It's got it all. And I can't wait to keep reading to find out what happens next...
May 16, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 - Highly recommended for all adult readers - especially dark fantasy lovers!! 🔥⭐
This is most definitely one of my absolute favourite books ever! ✨🔥
In a world of shadow and darkness, two friends are fated to set out on a dark and dangerous
journey. They are put through things no one should ever endure. It’s a test of friendship as
much as a battle against their own dark sides. They must face fears that are greater than it’s
possible to imagine – unless of course you’re Sara Samuels who wrote this book 😉
Nothing is what it seems, and different pieces of the puzzle are revealed throughout each
book in this series; Blade of Shadows so I HIGHLY recommend continuing with the rest of the
series after reading this wonderful book 😉
Be prepared to smile, gasp in shock and surprise, cry your heart out and cheer heroes on.
This book is IMPOSSIBLE to put down and the characters will live rent free in your head long after finishing it!
I loved every second of this book – from how the characters are described to the world
building and the way the magic works. And most of all – I love that the villains are written in a way that makes you understand them – they are not evil just because. For some of them it needs a little reading on in the series though before this is revealed and this works so very well! 😉
And the cover! It’s soooo beautiful! Just like the writing! 🥺♥️
Thank you Sara for creating this beautiful, entertaining, well written book! 😍
This is most definitely one of my absolute favourite books ever! ✨🔥
In a world of shadow and darkness, two friends are fated to set out on a dark and dangerous
journey. They are put through things no one should ever endure. It’s a test of friendship as
much as a battle against their own dark sides. They must face fears that are greater than it’s
possible to imagine – unless of course you’re Sara Samuels who wrote this book 😉
Nothing is what it seems, and different pieces of the puzzle are revealed throughout each
book in this series; Blade of Shadows so I HIGHLY recommend continuing with the rest of the
series after reading this wonderful book 😉
Be prepared to smile, gasp in shock and surprise, cry your heart out and cheer heroes on.
This book is IMPOSSIBLE to put down and the characters will live rent free in your head long after finishing it!
I loved every second of this book – from how the characters are described to the world
building and the way the magic works. And most of all – I love that the villains are written in a way that makes you understand them – they are not evil just because. For some of them it needs a little reading on in the series though before this is revealed and this works so very well! 😉
And the cover! It’s soooo beautiful! Just like the writing! 🥺♥️
Thank you Sara for creating this beautiful, entertaining, well written book! 😍
February 15, 2026
★★★★☆ (4.5 stars)
Rise of the Shadow Lords by Sara Samuels is an intense, fast-paced prequel that wastes no time pulling you straight into the action.
From the very beginning, the story dives headfirst into the plot, and it truly doesn’t let up. Every chapter feels packed with high stakes and life-altering challenges, to the point where you almost wish the characters could catch their breath — even for a minute. The constant momentum makes it incredibly hard to put down.
What really stood out was how invested I became in Salvatore, Amara, and Lazarus. Despite the chaos and relentless action, their emotional arcs shine through. You find yourself rooting for them, hoping for redemption and understanding how their past shapes who they become within the larger universe of the series.
As a prequel, it does exactly what it’s meant to do — it deepens the backstory and adds weight to what’s still to come. It enhances the overall world and leaves you eager to continue the journey.
The only reason it’s not a full five stars is that the pacing is so relentless it can feel overwhelming at times — but honestly, that intensity is also part of its charm.
A gripping, action-driven addition to the series that makes you appreciate the universe even more.
Rise of the Shadow Lords by Sara Samuels is an intense, fast-paced prequel that wastes no time pulling you straight into the action.
From the very beginning, the story dives headfirst into the plot, and it truly doesn’t let up. Every chapter feels packed with high stakes and life-altering challenges, to the point where you almost wish the characters could catch their breath — even for a minute. The constant momentum makes it incredibly hard to put down.
What really stood out was how invested I became in Salvatore, Amara, and Lazarus. Despite the chaos and relentless action, their emotional arcs shine through. You find yourself rooting for them, hoping for redemption and understanding how their past shapes who they become within the larger universe of the series.
As a prequel, it does exactly what it’s meant to do — it deepens the backstory and adds weight to what’s still to come. It enhances the overall world and leaves you eager to continue the journey.
The only reason it’s not a full five stars is that the pacing is so relentless it can feel overwhelming at times — but honestly, that intensity is also part of its charm.
A gripping, action-driven addition to the series that makes you appreciate the universe even more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 4/5 ⭐️
𝓢𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮 3/5🌶️
Rise of the Shadow Lords by Sara Samuels
Blade of Shadows #0.5
AHHH! I have been meaning to dive into this series forever now and when I saw a prequel novel was coming up for arc requests I jumped on that!! I am so glad I was able to start with this prequel because I feel like now I am going to go into book one with a lot of those questions answered.
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this book!
This was dark and dangerous. High-stakes fantasy with betrayal, trials, and sacrifice. Our two main characters are really put through it. Having to confront each other, themselves, and outside forces all while trying to survive in a world torn by war and where brutality wins.
I definitely would say this is a dark fantasy. There is horror, gore, and murder. There was a lot of despair and a lot of emotion. The betrayal cuts deep and your heart hurts.
I cannot wait to dive into book one of this series now and see how these two characters play into the rest of the series!
𝓢𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮 3/5🌶️
Rise of the Shadow Lords by Sara Samuels
Blade of Shadows #0.5
AHHH! I have been meaning to dive into this series forever now and when I saw a prequel novel was coming up for arc requests I jumped on that!! I am so glad I was able to start with this prequel because I feel like now I am going to go into book one with a lot of those questions answered.
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this book!
This was dark and dangerous. High-stakes fantasy with betrayal, trials, and sacrifice. Our two main characters are really put through it. Having to confront each other, themselves, and outside forces all while trying to survive in a world torn by war and where brutality wins.
I definitely would say this is a dark fantasy. There is horror, gore, and murder. There was a lot of despair and a lot of emotion. The betrayal cuts deep and your heart hurts.
I cannot wait to dive into book one of this series now and see how these two characters play into the rest of the series!
January 26, 2026
This is my first ARC that I’ve been fortunate enough to be chosen to read and review. I must say, this novel did not disappoint. This book is simply riveting. The vivid imagery and meticulous attention to detail immerse you in the world that started it all. You delve into the pain, betrayal, and love that molded Lazarus and Salvatore, revealing the complexities of manipulating such emotions. I thoroughly enjoy the portrayal of Salvatore You can empathize with him and comprehend how pain and betrayal have shaped his character. You’ll experience a range of emotions while reading this book. You learn to perceive how life and its tribulations hardened Lazarus. You witness how his brotherhood and friendship with Salvatore were truly tested. As a prequel to the Blade of Shadow series, it answers all my questions, leaving me eager for more. Sara Samuels’ writing is unparalleled, a true genius.
February 4, 2026
In a world where Dark Fantasy is often either simply torture porn or purposeless chaos masquerading as clever complexity, Rise of the Shadow Lords stands apart. Where most dark fantasy intensity stems from pure shock value, Sara Samuels delivers intensity through emotional, physical, and existential depth. The employed tropes and archetypes are at once familiar and strikingly new through a lens of history, fantasy, and fairy tale elements.
This book is dark and intense -- really dark and intense -- but purposefully and intentionally dark and intense. It is easily in my opinion, the best Dark Fantasy novel of the last 20 to 30 years and you should read it if only to experience a masterclass of dark fantasy writing and storytelling.
If you're interested in a longer format review you can do so here:
Youtube: https://youtu.be/Uc6ssA-Cj9U?si=LYq1j...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0UMU...
This book is dark and intense -- really dark and intense -- but purposefully and intentionally dark and intense. It is easily in my opinion, the best Dark Fantasy novel of the last 20 to 30 years and you should read it if only to experience a masterclass of dark fantasy writing and storytelling.
If you're interested in a longer format review you can do so here:
Youtube: https://youtu.be/Uc6ssA-Cj9U?si=LYq1j...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0UMU...
February 8, 2026
Dark fantasy. Brutal trials. Morally gray characters.
This book had me hooked from page one. This is my first book I have read in the series and it did not disappoint.
Rise of the Shadow Lords is the kind of prequel that actually adds depth instead of just filling gaps. The Shadow Lord Trials were intense, ruthless, and impossible to look away from — every challenge pushing the characters to their absolute limits, physically and emotionally.
What I loved most was how character-driven this story is. The bonds, betrayals, and impossible choices made everything feel raw and earned. You can really feel how these moments shape who the characters become later on, and it made the stakes hit so much harder.
The worldbuilding is dark and immersive without being overwhelming, and the tension never lets up. If you’re into fantasy that doesn’t pull punches and isn’t afraid to explore power, sacrifice, and the cost of survival, this one delivers.
Rise of the Shadow Lords is the kind of prequel that actually adds depth instead of just filling gaps. The Shadow Lord Trials were intense, ruthless, and impossible to look away from — every challenge pushing the characters to their absolute limits, physically and emotionally.
What I loved most was how character-driven this story is. The bonds, betrayals, and impossible choices made everything feel raw and earned. You can really feel how these moments shape who the characters become later on, and it made the stakes hit so much harder.
The worldbuilding is dark and immersive without being overwhelming, and the tension never lets up. If you’re into fantasy that doesn’t pull punches and isn’t afraid to explore power, sacrifice, and the cost of survival, this one delivers.
January 23, 2026
This is the first ARC I have been lucky enough to be chosen to read & review…. It did not disappoint! If I didn’t have to work, I would have finished this a lot sooner, I LOVED it!
The storyline of the 2 main characters is beautiful, heartbreaking, frustrating and addictive. How 2 best friends grow up as close as brothers and yet how time, emotions & upbringing can tear that apart (with external elements in play corrupting their bond) had me not wanting to put the story down!
Thank you Sara Samuels for giving me the opportunity to dive in to the world of Timeborne and your Blade & Shadow series, you have a new fan!
The storyline of the 2 main characters is beautiful, heartbreaking, frustrating and addictive. How 2 best friends grow up as close as brothers and yet how time, emotions & upbringing can tear that apart (with external elements in play corrupting their bond) had me not wanting to put the story down!
Thank you Sara Samuels for giving me the opportunity to dive in to the world of Timeborne and your Blade & Shadow series, you have a new fan!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Prequel that will have you at the edge of your seat. Every chapter has a new twist, has something new happening. This one tells you the original of the villain of this series, and man oh man did they do through it. Its a real roller-coaster, up down up down and then what is this? 🫣😶🫥 had to reread the last chapter becuase i just couldn't. Didn't want to read it to fast, but man now I get why these two are hie theh are, now we sew what they went through. Sara sure knows how to write a good book to keep wanting more. 4 stars becuase this one a bit dark for me but other wise the series is a 6⭐️ for sure
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was super lucky to get given an ARC by the author.
I am totally new to this whole world so it was nice to get a little prequel before diving into the series.
It took me a moment to really think about this book - boy oh boy does so much happen.
It is dark, so definitely read the triggers first!
I want to hate all the characters as they all had points where I was rooting for the others but it shows you what hurt, heart break and lack of love can do to people.
Excited to know what happens now!
I am totally new to this whole world so it was nice to get a little prequel before diving into the series.
It took me a moment to really think about this book - boy oh boy does so much happen.
It is dark, so definitely read the triggers first!
I want to hate all the characters as they all had points where I was rooting for the others but it shows you what hurt, heart break and lack of love can do to people.
Excited to know what happens now!
February 19, 2026
For readers new to Blade of Shadows, this origin story is the perfect place to begin. Dark, emotional, and utterly immersive, it explores brotherhood, betrayal, and the cost of impossible choices.
Salvatore and Lazarus — brothers by choice — are pushed through brutal trials that strip their bond to its core, testing whether love and loyalty can survive the pull of rising evil. I was hooked from page one and couldn’t look away from the unraveling of their relationship.
Not required before the main series, but absolutely the place to start if you want the deepest emotional impact.
Salvatore and Lazarus — brothers by choice — are pushed through brutal trials that strip their bond to its core, testing whether love and loyalty can survive the pull of rising evil. I was hooked from page one and couldn’t look away from the unraveling of their relationship.
Not required before the main series, but absolutely the place to start if you want the deepest emotional impact.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely loved this book.
The book had me gripped from the first page. I loved the way the book showed us the MMC s relationship from when it started and the hardships that made their bond strong.
The emotions Jump off the page, making every betrayal hit that little harder !!
The story is full of twist and turns that kept me guessing and sometimes gasping !!
One of the best ARCS I have had this month
The book had me gripped from the first page. I loved the way the book showed us the MMC s relationship from when it started and the hardships that made their bond strong.
The emotions Jump off the page, making every betrayal hit that little harder !!
The story is full of twist and turns that kept me guessing and sometimes gasping !!
One of the best ARCS I have had this month
February 13, 2026
How do I begin to talk about how great of a book this has been? I got to both beta read and ARC read this book and both times without fail I loved everything about it.
I don’t know how it’s possible, but Sara Samuels perfectly aligned every single plotline so there are no gaps and holes in what we read. No matter when you read this book, everything makes perfect sense.
This series now forever will have a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait for more stories in this world
I don’t know how it’s possible, but Sara Samuels perfectly aligned every single plotline so there are no gaps and holes in what we read. No matter when you read this book, everything makes perfect sense.
This series now forever will have a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait for more stories in this world
January 29, 2026
AMAZING!!! This book answered a ton of questions!!! So much detail and emotion in this story! This might be my favorite one of the series…I cannot wait until book 7 comes out! I may need to read everything again before it does!!! Thank you Sara for capturing my attention from the first page!!! That’s how it’s done!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I’m brand new to Sara Samuels and this was WHOA. I held my breath on many parts; there were times I felt ill; there were times I was so devastated I wanted to quit…but you absolutely cannot. Love and power are truly dangerous things. A rollercoaster of emotions. Deliciously dark. I can’t wait to move onto the book 1!
February 4, 2026
1st time being an arc reader and really enjoyed this book thank you for leaving me read it in advance.
This story had me from the beginning the world building, the brotherhood of the main characters and what drives them . How their relationship is tested.
This is a prequel and I can't wait to read more of their story.
This story had me from the beginning the world building, the brotherhood of the main characters and what drives them . How their relationship is tested.
This is a prequel and I can't wait to read more of their story.
February 10, 2026
I really wanted to give it 2.5 stars.. honestly the extremely LONG chapters killed the book for me. It made the book feel like it was dragging on. I liked the storyline and it does answer questions, but it took everything in me not to DNF this because of the chapters. 🫣😅
February 16, 2026
The origins of the Timeborne. A story steeped in horror. In love. In betrayal. In redemption.
The story of Salvatore amd Lazarus, before they become the people we know them as.
An awesome, fun read, with deep insight into who they were, and why they are the way they are.
The story of Salvatore amd Lazarus, before they become the people we know them as.
An awesome, fun read, with deep insight into who they were, and why they are the way they are.
March 9, 2026
Another amazing book. My gosh this author is amazing
For me the book took about 80 pages to get going if you will and from there I was hooked. Author never disappoints and leaves us on a cliff hanger. I can't wait to read the last book. Kudos to Sara on another amazing read!!!
For me the book took about 80 pages to get going if you will and from there I was hooked. Author never disappoints and leaves us on a cliff hanger. I can't wait to read the last book. Kudos to Sara on another amazing read!!!
February 10, 2026
Without spoiling anything, Sara Samuels does an incredible job immersing her readers in a complex, memorable, and compelling world. She ties up questions from previous novels in a way that is satisfying, and exciting. Her characters are nuanced, grey, and fascinating.
December 22, 2025
It’s a refreshing new kind of magic! Loved the detail to setting and scene building. Really made me feel like I was there! I haven’t read the rest of the series yet but now I HAVE to see where the world takes me!
February 6, 2026
Holy jeebus was this not probably the wildest ride of brotherhood, envy, and betrayal in the series! I am so glad I gave this series a chance! I did get this as an ARC and oh my wow! I love it! Keep up the good work Sara!
February 4, 2026
Rise of the Shadow Lords was a great read! It was my introduction to the series and I felt like I was really able to dive in and immerse myself in the world. I won't mention any spoilers, but I am really keen to sit down and read the rest of the series now!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I binged and devoured "Rise of the Shadow Lords" in a few days. Sara Samuel's writing is so beautiful and addictive. It conjures all 5 senses while you read; you can see, hear, smell, feel, and taste everything on the page. I have read all of the released books in this series so far. This book is a prequel novel, which is the origin story of where it all began. I adore this book because the storyline and characters are sublime and like no others I have ever read. This is one of my all-time favorite series, and "Rise of the Shadow Lords" is a crowning jewel.
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