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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
17 people are currently reading
479 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 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!
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.
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...
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 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.
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!
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
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.
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!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews