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Seven Swords #1
Heart of Shadow
I'm not afraid of the shadow. He's the only thing keeping me alive.
I'm hiding in my father's closet, desperately picking the lock on a box containing an ancient evil when he emerges. He doesn't seem all that evil. But neither did my friends before they turned into monsters. I'd like to think that I don't need him. But I love books and he loves battles. I'm used to drinking tea and he's used to drinking the blood of his enemies. Or whatever his kind drink. In a world stricken by plague, all my friends have become terrifying monsters, and I have no other option but to trust him to keep me safe. He'll teach me to hunt those monsters and I'll try not to fall hopelessly in love with him.
Author's Note: This is a deep, dark romp (not steamy) with an unrelenting pace and cliffhangers. Read at your own risk.
I'm hiding in my father's closet, desperately picking the lock on a box containing an ancient evil when he emerges. He doesn't seem all that evil. But neither did my friends before they turned into monsters. I'd like to think that I don't need him. But I love books and he loves battles. I'm used to drinking tea and he's used to drinking the blood of his enemies. Or whatever his kind drink. In a world stricken by plague, all my friends have become terrifying monsters, and I have no other option but to trust him to keep me safe. He'll teach me to hunt those monsters and I'll try not to fall hopelessly in love with him.
Author's Note: This is a deep, dark romp (not steamy) with an unrelenting pace and cliffhangers. Read at your own risk.
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About the author
Sarah K.L. Wilson
159 books1,086 followersSarah K. L. Wilson is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes fantasy stories featuring practical heroes & heroines in the most impractical circumstances. She loves writing because it is the only way to make a living and give back to the world when your primary skill is an overactive imagination and a tendency toward violent daydreams.
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
November 29, 2021
Oh my goodness, this was amazing! I've never felt so deeply thrust into a story and its world before. If you enjoy fast-paced, high stakes, high action stories with characters and lore to die for, this is for you!
April 24, 2023
1,5 and I am feeling generous today.
A girl that is into an (old in years, young in body) shadow trapped in a sword plot idea was amazing but the book as a whole was a miss for me.
It was really painful to spend even a few minutes in the head of Ilsaletta, the heroine from this book. I couldn't read it in one sitting even though it has only about 200 pages.
Her thinking was...
A girl that is into an (old in years, young in body) shadow trapped in a sword plot idea was amazing but the book as a whole was a miss for me.
It was really painful to spend even a few minutes in the head of Ilsaletta, the heroine from this book. I couldn't read it in one sitting even though it has only about 200 pages.
Her thinking was...
March 14, 2024
Reading books like this make me SO HAPPY (but alas - it happens too rarely). I couldn't put it down. It's beautiful AND fast paced and YET the characters are still deep and realistic - Wilson's style of writing/storytelling is SO GOOD. I'm speechlessly in awe. Ilsaletta + Vaargard is gonna be one of my top ships of the year. I CAN'T WAIT for the next release (in April...? how will I LIVE? xD)
An intensely immersive and fun story with characters that WILL GRIP YOU and will NOT let go.
Sarah K. L. Wilson had my deepest respect as a reader ever since reading her STOLEN MAYFLY BRIDE novella, so when I noticed this delicious cover while on her website, I just HAD to preorder a copy. <3
Wilson's writing style is thoroughly quotable (my copy is filled with post-it notes), wonderfully unique, immersively gripping, filled with witty humor and deep reflections about life (and, ahem, death ;) at the same time. (And starting this story with Ilsaletta locked up in a closet while finding a sword that awakens a SHADOW WARRIOR/GUARD is simply the best beginning.)
I love the "they're stuck together" scenario and all the tension and twists involved. ^-^ The dynamics and banter between Ilsaletta & Vaargard is original and fun and very revealing of each. I especially admire how these moments build them up as unique, solid characters while also revealing how they complement one another as well as encourage growth.
The pacing is entirely en pointe, and I loved the surprises (didn't see the one with the Duke and the princess comin' to be honest. /thumbs up/) It's books like this that Define The Genre for me, people.
My review currently simply cannot express how amazing this story is. So I shall be rereading it for the release of BLADE OF SHADOW. :)
Content: PG-13 for action and violence. No language (that I recall, there are some swearing in congruent to the fantasy world). A kiss and no other sexual content. All in all a perfectly intense story while still keeping it clean - I APPRECIATE.
Original notes:
I read it because of (this means go read these things) 1) the chapter 1 preview on the author's site https://www.sarahklwilson.com/heart-o... and 2) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
An intensely immersive and fun story with characters that WILL GRIP YOU and will NOT let go.
Sarah K. L. Wilson had my deepest respect as a reader ever since reading her STOLEN MAYFLY BRIDE novella, so when I noticed this delicious cover while on her website, I just HAD to preorder a copy. <3
Wilson's writing style is thoroughly quotable (my copy is filled with post-it notes), wonderfully unique, immersively gripping, filled with witty humor and deep reflections about life (and, ahem, death ;) at the same time. (And starting this story with Ilsaletta locked up in a closet while finding a sword that awakens a SHADOW WARRIOR/GUARD is simply the best beginning.)
I love the "they're stuck together" scenario and all the tension and twists involved. ^-^ The dynamics and banter between Ilsaletta & Vaargard is original and fun and very revealing of each. I especially admire how these moments build them up as unique, solid characters while also revealing how they complement one another as well as encourage growth.
The pacing is entirely en pointe, and I loved the surprises (didn't see the one with the Duke and the princess comin' to be honest. /thumbs up/) It's books like this that Define The Genre for me, people.
My review currently simply cannot express how amazing this story is. So I shall be rereading it for the release of BLADE OF SHADOW. :)
Content: PG-13 for action and violence. No language (that I recall, there are some swearing in congruent to the fantasy world). A kiss and no other sexual content. All in all a perfectly intense story while still keeping it clean - I APPRECIATE.
Original notes:
I read it because of (this means go read these things) 1) the chapter 1 preview on the author's site https://www.sarahklwilson.com/heart-o... and 2) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
March 15, 2022
Unique & Thrilling!!! ♡
4.5 Stars 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌘
****and that cover!!!😍😍😍
I very much want to buy the hardcover.😶
4.5 Stars 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌘
****and that cover!!!😍😍😍
I very much want to buy the hardcover.😶
June 20, 2022
This book is AMAZING!!! This author always blows me away with her creativity!
Guy stuck in a magic sword? Um, yep, sign me up!
Girl who is believably bookish and not a warrior? But will be tough out of sheer desperation in a very believable way? Double check!
And the villain of this book...spot on!!!
Just, so good! Go read this series!
Not to mention, the audiobook is well done!
Guy stuck in a magic sword? Um, yep, sign me up!
Girl who is believably bookish and not a warrior? But will be tough out of sheer desperation in a very believable way? Double check!
And the villain of this book...spot on!!!
Just, so good! Go read this series!
Not to mention, the audiobook is well done!
June 29, 2022
This book was quite different than what I normally read (I tend to skew away from YA, romance, and 1st person), and so it took me a bit to get my bearings while reading it.
That said, the pace was a wildfire, never giving you a moment to breathe in peace. In some ways, it felt like a thriller, where there was no clear destination for much of the story, just a dark intensity that loomed over the protagonist like a storm cloud.
Most importantly, the end was wonderful. Surprisingly gritty and brutal for a YA book, and unsurprisingly kissy in the final pages, but wonderful.
If you like fast-paced YA with violence and romance, you'll probably love this.
That said, the pace was a wildfire, never giving you a moment to breathe in peace. In some ways, it felt like a thriller, where there was no clear destination for much of the story, just a dark intensity that loomed over the protagonist like a storm cloud.
Most importantly, the end was wonderful. Surprisingly gritty and brutal for a YA book, and unsurprisingly kissy in the final pages, but wonderful.
If you like fast-paced YA with violence and romance, you'll probably love this.
July 26, 2023
Heart of Shadow is a gripping upper-YA fantasy that delves into a small idyllic village suddenly plagued by monsters. When this deadly plague ravages the village, even close friends transform into terrifying monsters. The main character, determined and resourceful, finds herself as one of the only survivors of the illness and stumbles upon a magical sword and a ghostly warrior. The two strike a bargain and their unlikely alliance holds secrets waiting to be unraveled.
The story's dark elements and intriguing world-building immediately drew me in, and I found myself immersed in the tale of a courageous heroine and her mysterious shadow bodyguard. The dynamics between the characters are compelling, and the growing bond between the heroine and her bodyguard adds depth to the story. The romance has a sweetness that tugs at the heartstrings, leaving me eager to see how their relationship develops further. I also adored the Duke (reverse damsel) and the mental commentary of her warrior so, so much. Banter for days!
One aspect that stood out for me was the relentless pace of the narrative, keeping me on my toes with its non-stop action and well-placed cliffhangers. It's a real page-turner that keeps you engrossed in the adventure. While I enjoyed the story overall, there were moments when I felt slightly less invested than expected, which kept it from being a perfect read for me. Nevertheless, the strong character development and fascinating world-building make up for it, and I was thoroughly entertained.
I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this thrilling series.
The story's dark elements and intriguing world-building immediately drew me in, and I found myself immersed in the tale of a courageous heroine and her mysterious shadow bodyguard. The dynamics between the characters are compelling, and the growing bond between the heroine and her bodyguard adds depth to the story. The romance has a sweetness that tugs at the heartstrings, leaving me eager to see how their relationship develops further. I also adored the Duke (reverse damsel) and the mental commentary of her warrior so, so much. Banter for days!
One aspect that stood out for me was the relentless pace of the narrative, keeping me on my toes with its non-stop action and well-placed cliffhangers. It's a real page-turner that keeps you engrossed in the adventure. While I enjoyed the story overall, there were moments when I felt slightly less invested than expected, which kept it from being a perfect read for me. Nevertheless, the strong character development and fascinating world-building make up for it, and I was thoroughly entertained.
I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this thrilling series.
December 8, 2021
You thought she needed saving. He thought she needed his loyalty. Good people are easy to use and manipulate because they expect good in others. It’s a flaw.
I wish I could give this 10/10 stars. This book exceeded every one of my expectations!
Islaletta is a sweet naive noble girl who loves reading about fantasy adventures in books. But one day she is thrown into a world of chaos when she discovers (what might as well be) a plague of monsters is rapidly consuming her home world. Unfortunately she learns it no longer pays to be good or reasonable when everything she’s ever known is deteriorating under the reign of a new enemy. Her adventure is nothing like the adventures she’s read about in her stories.
Islaletta and Vargaard’s relationship reminds me of Addie and Luc’s (TILOAL), and of Vasya and Morozko’s from The Winternight Trilogy. If you’re looking for a fresh YA fantasy series this book is exactly what you need. I cannot wait for the next book!!
I wish I could give this 10/10 stars. This book exceeded every one of my expectations!
Islaletta is a sweet naive noble girl who loves reading about fantasy adventures in books. But one day she is thrown into a world of chaos when she discovers (what might as well be) a plague of monsters is rapidly consuming her home world. Unfortunately she learns it no longer pays to be good or reasonable when everything she’s ever known is deteriorating under the reign of a new enemy. Her adventure is nothing like the adventures she’s read about in her stories.
Islaletta and Vargaard’s relationship reminds me of Addie and Luc’s (TILOAL), and of Vasya and Morozko’s from The Winternight Trilogy. If you’re looking for a fresh YA fantasy series this book is exactly what you need. I cannot wait for the next book!!
December 1, 2021
This year I learned that I don’t enjoy YA anymore the way I used to, which means I’m usually judging them more harshly than I’m supposed to. But every now and then, I find treasures like Heart of Sword and I remember it’s not an inherently bad genre and I should still reach to these stories and see what they can offer.
This book was an unexpected wild ride and I loved every second of it!
Considering the blurbs don't say much about the actual plot, I was bracing for something else than what this book actually is. That gorgeous cover hints at it all but the strong Venom vibes were still unexpected. Or at least it reminded me a lot to Venom, which is never bad.
It's sweet (at least the relationship is), it has action and drama, and of course: sarcastic banter. It’s not exactly plot heavy, from start to finish only 2 days passes, but the pages are filled with drama. It is a story about loyalty and devotion, and also about setting your step on the road for the first time and learning to make your own choices.
The “romance” is silly but also so so so sweet and tender I couldn’t get enough and I’ll definitely dive into the next book the moment it’s out.
This book was an unexpected wild ride and I loved every second of it!
Considering the blurbs don't say much about the actual plot, I was bracing for something else than what this book actually is. That gorgeous cover hints at it all but the strong Venom vibes were still unexpected. Or at least it reminded me a lot to Venom, which is never bad.
It's sweet (at least the relationship is), it has action and drama, and of course: sarcastic banter. It’s not exactly plot heavy, from start to finish only 2 days passes, but the pages are filled with drama. It is a story about loyalty and devotion, and also about setting your step on the road for the first time and learning to make your own choices.
The “romance” is silly but also so so so sweet and tender I couldn’t get enough and I’ll definitely dive into the next book the moment it’s out.
May 29, 2025
Look, it was pitched to me as a Vespertine readalike, and, yeah, half the time readalike recs just end in disappointment . . . but this one? did not. Not everything hit perfectly, but on the whole, I loved this and I can't wait for the next book.
April 23, 2022
DNF 55% - I just can’t continue forward. The character dependency of the shadow to someone who is so immature and childish really got me on my nerves.
August 16, 2024
I loved All of it!
The Story was fast paced, I really was sucked into it from beginning und I couldn't put it down! Loved the charakters - and hated the hate worthy ones.
Can't wait to read book two!
Please remember Reading is subjective.
The Story was fast paced, I really was sucked into it from beginning und I couldn't put it down! Loved the charakters - and hated the hate worthy ones.
Can't wait to read book two!
Please remember Reading is subjective.
August 18, 2023
Loved this book!
I fell so hard for these two, when she relses him from the sorwd for the Frist time he looks at her and see a goddess 😍
Also love that he basically lives in her shadow as a bodyguard.
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌟
I fell so hard for these two, when she relses him from the sorwd for the Frist time he looks at her and see a goddess 😍
Also love that he basically lives in her shadow as a bodyguard.
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌟
July 28, 2025
Read this for Book Club and completed the full read.
I like my fantasy books usually, but I found myself not enjoying at all, I hate it when a book does not meet expectations. I felt glad when it was over.
It was a story about Islaletta who got possession of a magic sword with some warrior soul trapped in it and she has conversations with the voice in her head. They have to travel to escape the city after finding out the princess plot to unleash chaos and monsters. The soul trapped in the magic sword was an interesting concept.
Plot & Pacing:
I really enjoyed the gripping start, I love a bit of action in the beginning, it had potential.
However, I found that this was one of those books where a lot happened but not a lot added to storyline.
It then felt slow pacing and dragged out.
The story wasn’t really complete, this is a clear set up for a sequel but even still the original story just felt flat. It was very much lets escape, lets try save some people, oops lets not, and the cycle continues.
Characters:
No real character development, the FMC was annoying, who needed saving all the time, made bad and infuriating decisions.
The soul trapped in the sword, immediately intense and I do not trust him.
The duke was annoying too.
Even when like the man trapped in the sword disappeared it was like oh well lets move on, oh he’s back now.
There was no real standoff between enemies – but feel like this was a kind of worldbuilding lets give all the information for later books kind of book.
Writing Style & Structure:
Two first person perspectives, I don’t know if it worked.
I don’t like books where they give me the information, rather than slowly letting me figure it out. Romance was quite quick, underdeveloped really.
Themes & Tone:
Touch her and die, monsters, romance.
Personal Impact:
I’m not going to continue reading the series, despite loving fantasy, this just wasn’t for me.
I like my fantasy books usually, but I found myself not enjoying at all, I hate it when a book does not meet expectations. I felt glad when it was over.
It was a story about Islaletta who got possession of a magic sword with some warrior soul trapped in it and she has conversations with the voice in her head. They have to travel to escape the city after finding out the princess plot to unleash chaos and monsters. The soul trapped in the magic sword was an interesting concept.
Plot & Pacing:
I really enjoyed the gripping start, I love a bit of action in the beginning, it had potential.
However, I found that this was one of those books where a lot happened but not a lot added to storyline.
It then felt slow pacing and dragged out.
The story wasn’t really complete, this is a clear set up for a sequel but even still the original story just felt flat. It was very much lets escape, lets try save some people, oops lets not, and the cycle continues.
Characters:
No real character development, the FMC was annoying, who needed saving all the time, made bad and infuriating decisions.
The soul trapped in the sword, immediately intense and I do not trust him.
The duke was annoying too.
Even when like the man trapped in the sword disappeared it was like oh well lets move on, oh he’s back now.
There was no real standoff between enemies – but feel like this was a kind of worldbuilding lets give all the information for later books kind of book.
Writing Style & Structure:
Two first person perspectives, I don’t know if it worked.
I don’t like books where they give me the information, rather than slowly letting me figure it out. Romance was quite quick, underdeveloped really.
Themes & Tone:
Touch her and die, monsters, romance.
Personal Impact:
I’m not going to continue reading the series, despite loving fantasy, this just wasn’t for me.
October 30, 2023
While I love Sarah K. L. Wilson's writing style, this book didn't hit right for me. The Juxtaposition of death and demons to first love and infatuation just didn't meld together. The story line was an intriguing, fantasy adventure but I didn't feel much pull toward any of the characters. I was willing to stay with the main character due to her loyalty to others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2022
*Heart eyes* I'm In LOVE!!! Review to come soon! =D
July 27, 2025
DNF - 1hr of listening to the audiobook was enough, I tried my hardest
November 30, 2021
My heart was pounding by the first page! Thrilling, intense, SO ROMANTIC. Absolutely loved it.
January 7, 2024
I am Ilsaletta Redtide. My father is Admiral Redtide of the Kingdom of Cragspear. I will not die as a mouse in the darkness.
This book started off STRONG! In the beginning, I was hooked. It was also very quotable - I highlighted so many passages! But sadly, by the end I had very mixed feelings about it because it went downhill in the last half.
The main thing that I enjoyed about this book was the concept. It was AMAZING, and unlike anything I've ever read before! I loved the idea of the Nakuraki (guardian of empires, defender of queens), a soul trapped in the shadow of a sword for a thousand years. He could prevent physical blows but could touch nothing without violence. SO. COOL. However....Vargaard? I hated his stupid ass name so much *cries*
While I loved Vargaard, I couldn't stand Ilsaletta. She was whiny AF and cried a LOT. Okay, some situations tears were warranted, sure; but I felt like she was doing it CONSTANTLY and it grated on my nerves. She also made stupid decisions left and right, against Vargaard's advice - then would be like "I should have listened to him" after it went sideways. Yet continued not to listen to him?? She was extremely immature and brash, and tbh utterly useless. Vargaard was constantly doing all the work and saving her stupid ass because she was a moron.
I felt like the relationship between Ilsa and Vargaard moved too fast. I was torn between loving his wild declarations and thinking them dramatic because he'd just met her. He was making grand declarations about how he would die for her pretty early on. At times I was torn between loving it and finding them over dramatic because he'd just met her. It would probably have made my heart melt if it would have moved slower, because I did like their bond and relationship even though it moved extremely fast.
I will hold onto you, Ilsaletta. I won't let you face it alone. I will walk with you and though I may not touch you, my arms will shield you, and though I cannot carry you, I will carry your burdens. Though I cannot feed you, I will not let you go hungry. Sick or well, dying or vibrant, destitute or rich, beautiful or withered, innocent or drenched in blood - I will cling to you and guard you, I will honor you and lift you up.
The princess seemed like a cartoon villain to me. I like that she was subverting a trope, but she was too over-the-top cartoony - like seriously she monologued.
But speaking of subverting tropes - Stekkan the wimpy duke was annoying at times, but was actually kinda cool in the end (albeit a bit dumb). I kinda felt bad that Ilsaletta kept talking down to him, when he was basically akin to a kicked puppy.
Like I said, this started off really strong and the concept is where this book shines. Unfortunately, it feels very YA especially in the last half.
This review was originally posted on Novel Heartbeat. To see a breakdown of my assessment, please visit the full review here.
January 17, 2024
4 ⭐ CW: violence, blood, death/murder
Heart of Shadow by Sarah K. L. Wilson is book one in the Seven Swords series. I went into this book not knowing anything about it since it came in a Faecrate box. It's not something I probably would have picked up on my own since it is described as fantasy romance, but honestly it was light on the romance. It's more of a prelude to a romance, but I did enjoy the story.
We follow Ilsaletta, a bookish girl of a noble, who is trying to escape an apparent attack on her home, and is desperately trying to pick a lock on a weapon that might save her. Little does she know the sword in the box isn't just a sword, but a sentient spirit with great powers. Though Ilsaletta has no knowledge of fighting, the sword, Vargaard, helps her and keeps her safe, eventually binding itself to her shadow.
Vargaard is an ancient being that was hidden away, and is now reborn now that he is bound to Ilsaletta's shadow. He worships her, calling her his Star of the Morning, and vows to be with her always and to protect her. Ilsaletta engages in a lot of self-doubt and has little confidence in her abilities, since she sees herself as only a soft girl with no practical skills (can relate 😆), but on her journey she is finding she has more grit than she thought. She becomes close with Vargaard, longing for his presence and assurance, even though he is an insubstantial shadow. We also get a few interludes from Vargaard's point of view.
The villain is a princess Ilsaletta's age, and has gained access to a powerful jewel with the power to infect others and turn them into husks to be possessed by evil. It's all a rather elaborate coup, and I'm interested to learn her motivations. Ilsaletta is also saddled with a charming, but useless duke more skilled in finery and healing than fighting and scheming. I can tell I'm going to like him even if he is a bit simpering and annoying.
I thought the ending was a little abrupt with the cliffhanger, but I'm definitely interested in the next book!
Heart of Shadow by Sarah K. L. Wilson is book one in the Seven Swords series. I went into this book not knowing anything about it since it came in a Faecrate box. It's not something I probably would have picked up on my own since it is described as fantasy romance, but honestly it was light on the romance. It's more of a prelude to a romance, but I did enjoy the story.
We follow Ilsaletta, a bookish girl of a noble, who is trying to escape an apparent attack on her home, and is desperately trying to pick a lock on a weapon that might save her. Little does she know the sword in the box isn't just a sword, but a sentient spirit with great powers. Though Ilsaletta has no knowledge of fighting, the sword, Vargaard, helps her and keeps her safe, eventually binding itself to her shadow.
Vargaard is an ancient being that was hidden away, and is now reborn now that he is bound to Ilsaletta's shadow. He worships her, calling her his Star of the Morning, and vows to be with her always and to protect her. Ilsaletta engages in a lot of self-doubt and has little confidence in her abilities, since she sees herself as only a soft girl with no practical skills (can relate 😆), but on her journey she is finding she has more grit than she thought. She becomes close with Vargaard, longing for his presence and assurance, even though he is an insubstantial shadow. We also get a few interludes from Vargaard's point of view.
The villain is a princess Ilsaletta's age, and has gained access to a powerful jewel with the power to infect others and turn them into husks to be possessed by evil. It's all a rather elaborate coup, and I'm interested to learn her motivations. Ilsaletta is also saddled with a charming, but useless duke more skilled in finery and healing than fighting and scheming. I can tell I'm going to like him even if he is a bit simpering and annoying.
I thought the ending was a little abrupt with the cliffhanger, but I'm definitely interested in the next book!
July 30, 2024
I got a beautiful edition of this book. Unfortunately, I didnt love the story the way I love the cover. The pacing is quick, which is a positive, but the romance developed way too quickly and I wasn't a fan of Ilsaletta. She had me rolling my eyes throughout most of her inner monologue. Plus she grew way too quickly to make sense. The story had so much potential but the book was too short for it to work. Such a shame with how gorgeous this book is. 2 stars just because of how pretty the book is.
August 17, 2022
There was one moment I had to put this book down as I knew what she was doing was stupid and I just couldn't read any further. But overall I loved this book, a novel idea with the hero tied to her shadow and great twists and side characters. I was really rooting for the two of them at the end. And that ending!!
February 14, 2022
Heart of Shadow is the first book in the Seven Swords series. The danger starts from page one. Isaletta is hiding from something or someone trying to kill her. She's desperate and has a strong will to survive, so she makes a pact with a shadow guardian inside a sword. He calls himself a Nakuraki. Will Isaletta survive the monsters that hunt her?
Isaletta has never practiced swordplay or any fighting technique. She's a bookworm, and that's about it. The Nakuraki is there to guide and protect her. There is strong chemistry between them. He has sweet nicknames for her, although I wasn't sure if she earned them. It's the first book in a series, so we'll hopefully still find out how they can be together.
Isaletta's POV is narrow, and she doesn't seem to have any friends. I was hoping we could connect with other people through her POV, but everyone is horrible, even her father. It was hard to root for people or to care.
The story is filled with action scenes, and there are several quotable lines that I highlighted. The book is for young adults and up, but be aware that it has lots of violence. The Nakuraki is an exciting aspect of the story. It looks like we'll get to meet more Nakuraki in future books as the series is called the Seven Swords.
Isaletta has never practiced swordplay or any fighting technique. She's a bookworm, and that's about it. The Nakuraki is there to guide and protect her. There is strong chemistry between them. He has sweet nicknames for her, although I wasn't sure if she earned them. It's the first book in a series, so we'll hopefully still find out how they can be together.
Isaletta's POV is narrow, and she doesn't seem to have any friends. I was hoping we could connect with other people through her POV, but everyone is horrible, even her father. It was hard to root for people or to care.
The story is filled with action scenes, and there are several quotable lines that I highlighted. The book is for young adults and up, but be aware that it has lots of violence. The Nakuraki is an exciting aspect of the story. It looks like we'll get to meet more Nakuraki in future books as the series is called the Seven Swords.
October 20, 2022
if i had a nickel for every time i started a Sarah K.L. Wilson series without realizing the final book wasn't out yet, i'd have two nickels. which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice
July 15, 2024
Cute, innocent, and a bit ... I don't even know.... frustrating?
April 19, 2022
How I have not written a review for this!?!? I found Sarah K L Wilson with “Fly with the Arrow” and after I finished “Dance with the Sword” I was devasted by the cliffhanger and searched everywhere for the 3rd Bluebeard book and found Sarah’s Patreon page and Instagram page. Was relieved and excited haha!!
Anyway, in an instagram post she mentioned how Heart of Shadow starts in a closet of all places, and I had to read it. (I was definitely going to make my next book one of hers after the amazingness that was Bluebeards Secret, but she has so many books I didn’t know where to continue).
So the “closet” comment sealed it and oh my goodness, even after reading more than 100 fantasy romance books so far this year, the Heart of Shadow series, along with Mercedes’ Prince of the Doomed City, have been my most favorite!! I love HoS so much. There are so many wonderful moments between Vargaard and ilsaletta. I can’t wait to read this again and add all the highlights, I was too eager to read it all the first time through. The ending is perfect!! Blade of Shadow continued the greatness that is this read (Patreon) So glad there is more coming for this series!
In the meantime, I highly recommend Wilson’s other works. Since finding her books, I’ve read 25 in the last month and they are all wonderfully unique. Incredible world building, character development, and hearts full of love! Epic Fantasies!
Anyway, in an instagram post she mentioned how Heart of Shadow starts in a closet of all places, and I had to read it. (I was definitely going to make my next book one of hers after the amazingness that was Bluebeards Secret, but she has so many books I didn’t know where to continue).
So the “closet” comment sealed it and oh my goodness, even after reading more than 100 fantasy romance books so far this year, the Heart of Shadow series, along with Mercedes’ Prince of the Doomed City, have been my most favorite!! I love HoS so much. There are so many wonderful moments between Vargaard and ilsaletta. I can’t wait to read this again and add all the highlights, I was too eager to read it all the first time through. The ending is perfect!! Blade of Shadow continued the greatness that is this read (Patreon) So glad there is more coming for this series!
In the meantime, I highly recommend Wilson’s other works. Since finding her books, I’ve read 25 in the last month and they are all wonderfully unique. Incredible world building, character development, and hearts full of love! Epic Fantasies!
February 7, 2022
Sarah K.L. Wilson has done it again, and lured me in with another heart-wrenching story. First Fae Hunter and now this. I'm doomed, because Ilsaletta and Vargaard have stolen my heart. And to cover everything else I loved, I need a list.
1. The writing style. Oh my word, it sings on the page. This is what funny, tense, beautiful writing looks like. This style needs to be taught to students, because it is top-tier.
2. The honesty. There is a lot of death in this book (and gore, so be warned), and the author doesn't shy away from it. You feel the horror as surely as Ilsaletta does, and it's a far cry from many other books that don't capture how horrible death is. The torture part isn't as great, but you feel everything pretty keenly still.
3. The morality. Tying into the honesty bit, this book shows that while being a hero can be stupid, it is the right thing to do. Watching Ilsaletta try and save people again and again is terrifying, but I love her conviction, and even though it doesn't turn out as she hopes, there is a sense of righteous justice to it. She knows that she can't watch someone die on her watch if she could help it, and it honestly inspires me to be a better person. She's a good influence on Vargaard, and speaking of...
4. VARGAARD. I love him. He's dangerous and selfish, but we also see him be so kind. For selfish reasons, perhaps, but his motives are (mostly) pure. Watching him look after Ilsaletta even when she runs into foolish situations is touching and heartbreaking, and so even though this book spans only two days, the romance is believable because of him. (And it's a clean romance, yay!)
5. Ilsaletta. She never shies away from admitting she's pampered and noble (and very useless in a fight), but I also love her honesty. She admits her faults, feels shame over things (like not being a warrior, which is highkey relatable) and she's definitely distracted by handsome men. Or Nakuraki. Or both. She's kind, funny, determined, and is a true definition of a "strong" heroine even though she can't fight. Again, English professors, take notes.
The plot was also fantastic and startlingly fitting to today's pandemic. A major part of the book is showing the evilness of mankind, which is was a big factor in the Fae Hunter series, so I'm not necessarily surprised to see it again. It ties into the honesty of the author's writing, and while it's hard to stomach sometimes, it's a serious reminder. And that's why there are heroes and heroines who are willing to fight for what is good and never stop working towards justice and a brighter future.
Overall, I loved every second of this, gore and all, and I am so freaking glad for all the moments between Vargaard and Ilsaletta.
1. The writing style. Oh my word, it sings on the page. This is what funny, tense, beautiful writing looks like. This style needs to be taught to students, because it is top-tier.
2. The honesty. There is a lot of death in this book (and gore, so be warned), and the author doesn't shy away from it. You feel the horror as surely as Ilsaletta does, and it's a far cry from many other books that don't capture how horrible death is. The torture part isn't as great, but you feel everything pretty keenly still.
3. The morality. Tying into the honesty bit, this book shows that while being a hero can be stupid, it is the right thing to do. Watching Ilsaletta try and save people again and again is terrifying, but I love her conviction, and even though it doesn't turn out as she hopes, there is a sense of righteous justice to it. She knows that she can't watch someone die on her watch if she could help it, and it honestly inspires me to be a better person. She's a good influence on Vargaard, and speaking of...
4. VARGAARD. I love him. He's dangerous and selfish, but we also see him be so kind. For selfish reasons, perhaps, but his motives are (mostly) pure. Watching him look after Ilsaletta even when she runs into foolish situations is touching and heartbreaking, and so even though this book spans only two days, the romance is believable because of him. (And it's a clean romance, yay!)
5. Ilsaletta. She never shies away from admitting she's pampered and noble (and very useless in a fight), but I also love her honesty. She admits her faults, feels shame over things (like not being a warrior, which is highkey relatable) and she's definitely distracted by handsome men. Or Nakuraki. Or both. She's kind, funny, determined, and is a true definition of a "strong" heroine even though she can't fight. Again, English professors, take notes.
The plot was also fantastic and startlingly fitting to today's pandemic. A major part of the book is showing the evilness of mankind, which is was a big factor in the Fae Hunter series, so I'm not necessarily surprised to see it again. It ties into the honesty of the author's writing, and while it's hard to stomach sometimes, it's a serious reminder. And that's why there are heroes and heroines who are willing to fight for what is good and never stop working towards justice and a brighter future.
Overall, I loved every second of this, gore and all, and I am so freaking glad for all the moments between Vargaard and Ilsaletta.
August 20, 2024
3.5 stars
December 3, 2021
Good
This book was OK 4Y a. There was a lot of banter back-and-forth between the main character and her shadow which sounds kind of weird but it’s not in the story. Her shadow had a lot of interesting mushy names that he used to call her but he did protect her. There was a lot of action in this book but it was stuff between the banter and the silliness. I’m not sure whether I’m going to read the second book or not. I know sometimes you have to read the first book to get an idea of the characters.
This book was OK 4Y a. There was a lot of banter back-and-forth between the main character and her shadow which sounds kind of weird but it’s not in the story. Her shadow had a lot of interesting mushy names that he used to call her but he did protect her. There was a lot of action in this book but it was stuff between the banter and the silliness. I’m not sure whether I’m going to read the second book or not. I know sometimes you have to read the first book to get an idea of the characters.
December 25, 2025
I love this so much!
"'But I cannot become corporeal without violence.'
“Then love me violently.”
'That, my sweet mortal girl, I will never do. For you are my treasure and it is my solemn purpose to keep you safe and treasured.'"
I loved this so much and can't wait for part two! Great characters, great emotions, great action! Love it!
"'But I cannot become corporeal without violence.'
“Then love me violently.”
'That, my sweet mortal girl, I will never do. For you are my treasure and it is my solemn purpose to keep you safe and treasured.'"
I loved this so much and can't wait for part two! Great characters, great emotions, great action! Love it!
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