The Shadow of Mortalis

by Cynthia A. Scarlett

On a continent divided into four powerful houses, each with its own unique magic: Blood, Life, Death, and Light - Princess Nyseria's path is anything but clear.

Nyseria is thrust into an unwanted betrothal with Varian Deauxlegar, the dangerous and seductive vampyr prince of The House of Blood. With his brutal savagery and insatiable appetites, Varian is the epitome of everything she despises. But as the royal wedding approaches, Nyseria's world begins to unravel.

On her twenty-eighth birthday, Nyseria receives a mysterious gift from her late father, an object of unknown power that seems to be the key to unlocking the truth. The dead have always visited her, but their recent messages have been laced with ominous warnings, more urgent than ever before.

Unlikely friendships, political alliances, and stirring rebellion converge in a perilous game of power. Nyseria must navigate the treacherous waters of her betrothal, uncover the mysteries of the past, and embrace her destiny to save her world from descending into darkness.

Welcome to Mortalis.

The dead whisper secrets.
The living wage wars.
A young heiress must find her place amidst the chaos.

Genres: Romantasy

Paperback

Published May 4, 2025

Reviews

[Lindy Magallanes · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this amazing book, and this is my honest review: I could not put this book down! The world was well built, with characters full of depth and growth. The story was dark, captivating and unique. My only regret is having been left on such a cliffhanger and knowing I won’t be able to read the next book right away!

[Kandyce Lykins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Em Gee. It’s been a while since I read a book that I couldn’t put down. I’m talking reading while you’re brushing your teeth or packing your kids’ lunch type of can’t put it down. The book stayed interesting the entire time. The ending wrecked me and I’m in desperate need of book two but this was so good. I love a book that keeps me on my toes and that’s exactly what this book did. As soon as I thought I knew how something was going to go, it was flipped. I read a lot and feel like it’s hard to surprise me and this book surprised me in more ways than one. The FMC is incredible. I cannot wait to see how her story unfolds. The romance was not at all how I expected but I loved every minute of it. There are so many elements of this story that I want more of. Very excited for this series.
Thank you for including me in the ARC read.

[Jayla McGowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

First and foremost thank you for the arc copy of this book!! Secondly…………The ending!!!!!!!! Ahhh I am not well!!!!!!😭 I need the next book. Anyway despite being emotionally distraught I truly enjoyed the book. I really love Nyseria she is not your typical princess. She is badass but she is also has a soft and gentle side to. I really appreciate that as well because nowadays the fmc is either extremely strong but lacks the softer gentle side or too soft and gentle and not enough toughness. And I feel like Nyseria was a great balance. And varian….🥵🥵🥵 yea I love him. I just wish we got a little more of his thoughts. King Andras oof I hate him. That man frustrated me to no end. And I really really REALLY wanted varian to get him. I still have so many questions😩 like why did he want to push their union so bad. I know it was to protect the kingdom from the rebels by using krovs armies but I’m sure there is more to that. And what about Nyseria powers? And what of elara? The plot twist at the end!!!!?!?!?!? I knew there was a reason I didn’t trust him!! I can’t say I saw it coming but something in my gut wouldn’t allow me to like him. And now…..ughhhhhh whyyyyyy!!! Anyway like I said I still really enjoyed the book. The story was amazing. The only con I have is I just wish we got more sweet moments with Varian and Nyseria. Because I love their love story and the banter. Ugh I need the second book like yesterday 😭😭such a captivating story once I started I could not put its down.

[Katie Sprietsma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want MORE! That ending though! FML!
This book is so well balanced throughout in terms of pacing, plot, and character development which is so refreshing! Especially in a first book. Usually when entering a series I go into it knowing that the first book will be slower while everything builds up, but this had me devouring the whole thing and aching for more.
We have vampires, clash of kingdoms, a little bit of hand maids tale vibes, arranged marriage, monsters, enemies to lovers, tension that is so palpable, mysteries, tested loyalties, temptation, and more! Loved it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️

I received this book as an arc read and am voluntarily leaving my fully honest review

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely swept me away! From the very first page, I was hooked. The banter was sharp and addictive, the enemies-to-lovers tension was *chef’s kiss*, and the spice? Absolutely perfection. The character development was so well done—I felt every emotion alongside them—and just when I thought I knew where the story was going, the plot twists left me reeling in the best way. Please I need more!

[Sara Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Arc**
A gripping enemies-to-lovers romance, filled with clever banter and a compelling storyline that concludes with a tantalizing cliffhanger, setting the stage for a thrilling continuation......

[Madison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m genuinely at a loss for words… OH MY GOODNESS

I haven’t read a good book like this in so long and I truly could not put this book down AT ALL! What a beautiful story that I CANT wait to keep reading when book 2 comes out (HOPEFULLY SOON)

Oh my goodness my heart

[Jaelyn Cooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book deserves all 5 stars!! 🤩 I received an ARC for this and I didn’t think it could get any better but the final copy did NOT disappoint. I am usually very good at guessing plot twists and endings of books but this one kept me on my toes throughout and definitely left me wanting more. There is the perfect amount of plot and character development mixed with spice and dark desires. It is also a tad spooky which I absolutely loved. This has topped some of my favorite vampy fantasy books for sure. I hope the next book is in the works ASAP!

[Christopher H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the privilege of being a beta reader for this wonderful book and I had such a great time that I reread it right away upon release! The characters are memorable, the worldbuilding is intriguing and that third act — WOW!! The final act of this story is a suspenseful page-turner that you absolutely can’t put down, featuring some amazing twists and turns. I’m not typically a romantasy reader but you certainly do not have to be to enjoy this gripping dark fantasy (though it certainly helps if you enjoy sexy vampires and bodice-ripping spice!!) I am eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series. And speaking of sexy vampires can we bring back Vysela for the sequel? C’mon… an unhinged jealous childhood friend out for revenge? It’s gold! It practically writes itself! Anyway y’all, do not sleep on this new author’s debut. Cynthia A. Scarlett is an incredible talent!

[Isabella Storgaard · Rating 4 out of 5]

What in the plot twist was THAT? The ending alone is what makes this book a 4 star read.

I’m curious for more, but I honestly don’t know if I will be continuing the series as the style of writing isn’t my favorite. I also felt the characters were very superficial and stereotypical.

[Katie McJunkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC, and let me tell you…I AM UNWELL!! That ending might have actually ruined me!!

I’m not sure I can even find the words. The back and forth banter was so good! The characters had me laughing and definitely kept me in my toes.

The will they won’t they between Nyseria and Varian was absolute perfection! Every time you thought this was it, nope they kept you hanging on a little longer!

Varian is 🥵. Yes please! Give me more. PLEASE!! He was brutal but also kind. And you knew the exact minute it shifted into touch her and die territory and I was all for it!!

Now let’s get to the nitty gritty. This bookkkkkkkkkk!!! Half the time I wasn’t sure what direction we were going next and I mean that in the best way possible! The twists and turns were great. The revelation at the end I literally gasped loudly! The last 15% hurt my soul. I woke my husband up screaming at my kindle! The cliffhanger it leaves you on…well let’s just say I’ll be thinking about it until book 2 is released! Which please please please let it be soon!!! I might need therapy after that!

I LOVED IT!!

[Haley A · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to win an ARC of this book, and put the wrong release date in my calendar so I am a little late to review.
I loved this book! Nyseria is relatable and a great FMC. Varian is everything you would ever want from a hunky brutish vampire. The story was well thought out, maybe a little slow paced but the ending was great! I am looking forward to the next book and learning more about this world.

[Sara Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

That ending should be considered a crime. Literally threw my Kindle (onto the bed, but still). I neeeeeeed the second book immediately. 😩

I sped through this book! The world and magic systems are so unique I was immediately drawn in. One element in the story gives Handmaid’s Tale vibes, but the majority of the story was refreshingly new.

Nyseria is intelligent and highly capable of protecting herself, but she is also such a kind soul. She will do anything to save those she loves. The banter and tension between her and Varian was just so good! I wanted to hate Varian, but it was just impossible. He is down bad for Nyseria, even though he acts like he couldn’t care less. Their enemies to lovers story was so satisfying to read.

The plot was definitely plotting the entire time. Some of the twists I saw coming, but there were some that definitely surprised me (hello last 15% of the book). I absolutely will be not so patiently waiting for book 2.

[Sian Atherton · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mysterious romantasy that refused to even let me think I had any incling how this story was going to play out. Princess Nyseria is trapped under the thumb of her cruel father, who sees her as political gain with the aim of isolating and diminishing her spirit. Rebellion arises, and Nyseria is bound to wed the egotistical and brutal vampire, Prince Varian, in exchange for protection. But hidden in the shadows ghostly whispers speak of a threat that lurks close alongside a prophecy.

At first, I just enjoyed the story, thinking it was a nice romantasy read. Nope! The book taunts: you may think you know how this tale will play out, but really, you have no idea. It's so cleverly manipulated using so many recognisable features of the genre, but Cynthia spins everything on its head brilliantly. I was so addicted to this novel needing to know what was going to happen next, especially after that ending.

I have never wanted to jump into a book so much just to give a character a hug. Nyseria, although she has an annoyingly stubborn streak, is such a lovable female lead. She really treasures those who she lets into her inner circle. But through all the surprising twists and turns, she is doomed to be a tragic heroine.

It's an emotivelly beautiful read, and there are so many little pieces of a ginormous puzzle that makes it so easy to be lost in this world. There were just a few moments that I felt were not fully explained, and I would have liked more information. They niggled at my mind not to the point where it majorly influenced the plot. I'm just really pernickety.

As any good start to a series, this first installment has definitely left me wanting more.
________________
Favourite Quotes:

As the Princess of Death and heir to Mortalis - the darkest land in all of Olestra - she ironically harboured a deep loathing for the shadows that engulfed her every night. The darkness gnawed at her, and she hated it with every fibre of her being.

She truly saw me.

This wasn’t about survival. It was about reclaiming her dignity, proving that she was no longer the defenceless girl they could treat however they pleased. She was older now. Stronger. “Never stop fighting.” Her father’s mantra echoed in her mind.

“What creatures in these woods could possibly be more monstrous than the one before me?” she retorted sharply, deflecting. Varian smiled at her remark, a rare and unsettling sight. “Believe it or not, Little Shadow, there are creatures far more frightening than I am."

Even after her mortal body crossed the veil and left this realm, she would be his. And as she walked closer toward him, he knew that he would do anything, be anything, for her.
________________
🌶🌶.5/5

Thank you so so much, Cynthia A. Scarlett for the ARC.

[Nadine Milad · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t usually read fantasy — I’m more of a nonfiction and history person. I like to stay politically and socially informed, but lately, with the state of the world, I needed a break. I told myself I’d take a detour into escapism, and The Shadow of Mortalis was recommended to me. Honestly, I couldn’t have picked a better book. It’s not just the best fantasy I’ve read — it’s one of the best fiction books I’ve ever read.

Published on May 4th (my birthday — I knew I had a good feeling about it!), this book took me on a wild, cinematic journey through a world that felt as textured and alive as any historical saga I’ve studied. Cynthia Scarlett has built a continent divided by four magical houses — Blood, Life, Death, and Light — and somehow makes each feel like its own living, breathing civilization.

The story follows Princess Nyseria, whose unwanted betrothal to Varian Deauxlegar, the dangerous vampyr prince of the House of Blood, sets off a chain of political intrigue, rebellion, and dark prophecy. What begins as a reluctant union quickly turns into a labyrinth of moral complexity — love and revulsion, duty and rebellion, life and death — all tangled together in haunting, beautiful prose.

Nyseria is one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve encountered in years. She’s powerful yet uncertain, spiritual yet pragmatic. Her connection to the dead — who whisper warnings as the living wage war — adds a gothic layer that elevates the story beyond traditional fantasy tropes. And Varian… let’s just say he’s written with the kind of nuance that keeps you constantly questioning whether you should fear him, hate him, or secretly root for him.

What impressed me most was how Scarlett balances political world-building with emotional storytelling. The alliances, betrayals, and philosophical undertones feel almost Shakespearean. It’s fantasy with a conscience — lush, romantic, but grounded in the kind of ethical and existential tension that sticks with you long after you close the book.

By the time I finished, I wasn’t just entertained; I was transformed. I went in wanting an escape and came out realizing that fantasy might actually be my new favorite genre.

Verdict: If you’re looking for a story that fuses mythic world-building, political intrigue, dark romance, and spiritual depth — The Shadow of Mortalis isn’t just a great fantasy book. It’s a masterpiece.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Cynthia Scarlett & her team for an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review!

To start, YES I AM SO MAD YOU ENDED THE BOOK THAT WAY. But also, mad in the best way, because I can’t WAAAAAIIIITTTTT for the next book!

Vampyres, magical realms, revels, oh my! This book focuses on a mating between Mortalis, the land of death, and Kroc, the land of blood. Our FMC and MMC, Nyseria & Varian, are the heirs to their realms, forced into a matehood, with a bloody history of rebellion from another faction in their world. They hope to make change as they rule, but there is more unknowns between not only themselves, but the truth of Mortalis and Krov in general. Mauldron, presumed a destroyed country, has rebels lifting up left and right. Hidden messages left by Nyseria’s father regarding the depth of her magic, and a friend turned revel, but is it for the right reasons?

I love the banter between Varian and Nyseria. The spice was deliciously placed in the book, and I found myself swooning over a vampyr. Step aside Damon, Stefan, Edward, and others, Varian is here and OH MY he is 100% allowed to stay. Also, I audibly laughed the entire scene where Varian met sir Donovan, bc the alpha male-ness was hysterical.

The twists at the end had me audibly gasping, and while I knew something was going to happen once Nyseria realized her ash dagger was missing, I did NOT call who would deal the blow.

I hope we find out what happened with Elara, if she ever found Tristan. I hope we find out what the aftermath is in Mortalis, especially with all the Krovian’s that were killed. I NEED VARIAN PLEASE. I can’t wait to learn the prophecy’s true meaning, and why any serial amulet gives her such power.

GIVE ME MORE ASAP.

[Carroll Middelthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 STARS. TAKE MY BLOOD.

This book is massive and mythic and alive in a way that doesn’t just feel impressive, it feels inevitable.

From page one, the atmosphere is thick. The world of Mortalis unfurls with that rare kind of confidence that makes you trust it immediately because you know you’re in good hands. The stakes feel earned, the grief feels lived-in, and the danger feels beautiful.

And Nyseria? Nyseria is one of the most complex female leads I’ve read in a long time. She’s not just some trope-filled “chosen one”, she’s a woman navigating trauma, duty, and identity with a quiet, relentless strength that got under my skin and stayed there. Her journey feels earned, not handed to her, and every choice she makes adds another layer to the emotional architecture of the story.

I could go on about the visual language (which is GORGEOUS), the pacing, or the sheer scope of the world, but what stays with you is the emotional intelligence of the writing. It’s not trying to be edgy. It is edgy, because it’s honest.

This is the kind of debut that makes you a little mad, because how?? How does someone pull off something this big, this layered, this finished on their first go? Have fun with the 🌶️🌶️🌶️, good luck with that ending, you will not be okay.

[Riley Hodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not usually a romantasy guy, I’m more of a “give me a good thriller and a mystery I can solve” kind of reader — but The Shadow of Mortalis pulled me in from page one. The thriller and mystery elements are just as strong as the romance, and the story keeps you guessing the whole way through.
Nyseria is such a compelling character, and watching her navigate the line between power and fear made every chapter feel high stakes. The world building is rich without being overwhelming, and the magic system clicked for me right away (no hundred-page rulebook needed).
And wow, the relationships… I can’t say much without spoiling things, but I’m genuinely hooked. The tension, the secrets, the betrayals...I need to know what happens next!!! That ending had me staring at the book like, “There’s no way you’re leaving me here.”
Whether you love romance, mystery, thrillers or fantasy, or all genres. this is a story worth diving into. Bring on Book 2!!!!

[Amara Surth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Utterly breathtaking.

The Shadow of Mortalis is one of those rare books that completely takes over your life while you’re reading it. I couldn’t put it down - every page pulled me deeper into its dark, enchanting world. The writing is stunning, the atmosphere rich and immersive, and the emotions so raw they linger long after you’re done.

What truly makes this book unforgettable is the character work. Nyseria’s growth is powerful and beautifully written -she’s strong, flawed, and endlessly compelling. And Varian… the perfect mix of danger and vulnerability. The tension between them is unreal - that slow-burn, soul-deep kind of connection that leaves you holding your breath.

I loved every moment - the quiet ones, the aching ones, the ones that made my heart race. This isn’t just a fantasy romance; it’s an emotional experience. The Shadow of Mortalis is dark, passionate, and completely addictive. I’m already desperate for the next one!

[Heidi Allgair · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was fortunate to receive an ARC of Shadow of Mortalis. While this wasn’t my favorite read of the year, it’s a solid start to a series, and I’ll definitely be picking up the next installment.

The overall story is engaging, with small hints that reminded me of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Serpent & the Wings of Night.

I believe Ms. Scarlett’s editor/publisher did her wrong and should have paid more attention to the naming of the country/land. Olestra is a fat substitute from the late 90s that often had horrific consequences on people’s digestive system—it’s a hard association to overlook. Maybe this means I’m not the target age group?

I also felt that N’s relationships with both E and V were rushed, and more background on N’s training with H and on the broader “war” would have added needed depth. These pieces could have made the emotional stakes stronger.

While part of the ending was predictable, I enjoyed one surprise twist that caught me off guard. The art work for the notes and font for chapter numbers were also difficult to read on Kindle, though Ms. Scarlett mentioned formatting is being worked on.

Overall, this book lays a nice foundation for the series. I’d happily read the next book—and would even love to see an earlier version of this story.

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need more! That’s seriously the only thing I can say after reading this book - the characters, world building and magic system was intriguing and so well written🤌🏻✨this was such an easy read and kept me interested the whole time, I finished it within 2 days!

First off, Varian and Nyserias banter and tension had me giggling 🤭 I wanted to dislike him in the beginning, but I just couldn’t with the way he became possessive and protective of her. King Andras…😒I just can’t stand him to be quite honest.

Would I recommend it? Yes! Do I need a physical copy to add to my trophy collection of books? Yes! Will I be impatiently waiting for book 2? Yes!

I received this book as an Arc in exchange for a honest review.✨

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am very appreciative of Cynthia A. Scarlett and their team for the opportunity to read an e-ARC of Shadow of Mortalis!

This is one of the best romantasies I’ve read recently!! Varian’s claim and care for Nyseria, savage as some of his acts were, was so powerful and heartwarming (in that touch her and die kind of way).

I also loved the few glimpses from Varian’s POV. I really loved seeing Nyseria and Varian’s relationship and care for each other develop over time.

It was so fun to learn about the different magic systems of the four houses and the vampyrs. I enjoyed the clue/riddle aspect of the story from King Kier. And the ending?!?! I need to read the second book ASAP!!

[Rachel Neary · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-Enemies to lovers
-Arranged marriage
-Vampire & Human who sees spirits
-Found family
-Badass FMC

I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

A great first book!! I’m not sure how many there will be, but I’ll definitely read them! It was so fun reading about the growing relationship between our FMC and MMC- there were also a few chapter where I was unsure of who was going to be our MMC! Was really not expecting that ending, and I can’t wait to get more answers!!

[Stinkin’Good Good Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to sit on this to review. I was so shocked by the ending. Princess Nyseria is able to see the dead and starts off meek and on the weaker side. She finds out a prophecy told from her late father and grows into a stronger woman with the help of her loyal guard and soon to be husband Varian. Varian is a Vampyr prince with a liking to his wondering teeth. But falls for her 😍 and is super possessive (someone loses finger 🤭) The banter is great the world building was just right. Lots of twist and mystery! That ending, well I have a bone to pick 🤣😭 I can not wait for the next!!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars 💫

Let me first say that the ending completely wrecked me! I'm still reeling from it, and I finished it two days ago. WHY Cynthia...WHY?????

This is hands down my favorite vampire book this year. The character development, the plot, the banter, and the SPICE! I was rooting for the FMC from the start. She is strong, intelligent, and kind. Let's not forget the MMC. I really wanted to hate him, but I couldn't help myself. He's sexy, possessive, and brutal. Need I say more!

Must read! Loved it! Need book #2 NOW!

[Talina Hajar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely captivating. I am not a big reader, but when I was recommended this one by my best friend I figured it couldnt hurt. Best decision I ever made. The characters, the layers, the plot twists, the word choice and imagery was unlike other books I’ve tried. Just the right amount of storyline and steaminess that romantasy books NEEEEED. And dont even get me started on the ending… i am in shambles. Pt 2 ASAP PLEASEEE😍

[Sher · Rating 4 out of 5]

OH MY GOSH!!!
the ending? you’re kidding! I had suspicions but none of them THAT!!! I think I need the next book stat!! Loved being introduced to these characters and this world and looking forward to see how this all unravels OMFG

love vampires, love romantasy, love diversity, love a cliffhanger ?!?!?? - so grateful to have had early access to this book (NOW OUT!)

Please, Cynthia, I’m begging for the next one!!! also, where can I get a glass of ebonvael wine????

[Jaclyn Juarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down. Cynthia Scarlett has such a beautiful way of writing — the world feels vivid and alive, and the characters are so layered and real. It’s dark, emotional, and full of those quiet moments that really stay with you. By the end, I felt like I’d lived a whole other life alongside the characters. Absolutely loved it.

[Laeloni Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I think of romantasy, this book is the perfect example. From the moment I started reading this book, I could not put it down. I loved this book so much! The world building, banter, and cliffhanger ending were *chef's kiss* There's vampires, ghosts, monsters, arranged marriage, enemies-to-lovers, and spice!

Thank you @cynthiaascarlett for letting me part of your ARC team!

[Giselle Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something rare about a story that feels both ethereal and deeply human. The Shadow of Mortales weaves ghosts, kingdoms, and forbidden love into a tale that aches with emotion. The gothic setting is lush, the characters wounded yet brave, and the slow burn romance is pure electricity. It’s a book that leaves you a little haunted, in the best way.