Mayhem and the Mortal

by Shanora Williams

One mission. One curse. No escape.

Zaira doesn’t want a hero. She needs a weapon.

To save her sister from a soul-devouring curse, she has to cross The Shallows—a nightmare landscape of ruined magic, shifting paths, and vicious creatures that eat people alive.

Her guide? Thane sorcerer, assassin, walking red flag. His name clears rooms. His magic kills quietly. And whatever he’s really after, it’s not salvation.

He promises to help. He might even mean it.

But Zaira knows better than to trust a liar with a blade and ice in his veins.

She just doesn’t have a choice.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Adult, Science Fiction Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Adult Fiction

495 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication March 17, 2026

About the author

Shanora Williams is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author known for her versatile voice, diverse characters, and high-stakes stories. Whether grounded in reality, set in a world of magic, or immersed in suspense, her books explore connection, chaos, and emotions that linger long after the last page.

As a self-proclaimed “mood writer”, Shanora has never believed in boxing herself in. Her desire has always been to take risks and challenge herself. If a plot is relentlessly on her mind, she will try her hand at it.

When she isn’t writing, she’s deep in family life, binge-watching shows and movies, working out, gaming, or getting cozy with a book. She lives near Charlotte, North Carolina with her husband and three sons.

Visit her at shanorawilliams.com or interact with her on Instagram @reallyshanora.

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Reviews

[Esta]

Sunshine FMC saving her sister from a soul devouring curse + unsmiling grumpy shadow daddy assassin = I think I'm gonna devour this.

[amarachireads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book will leave you eager to know what happens next by the end. This book is an adventure/traveling book. It starts off either the fmc journeying to find and save her sister. Along the way she meets the mmc who is very rebellious and mysterious and each on their own reasons team up for this mission. I liked ghe world I think it was creative and involved a variety of creatures, magic systems and interesting world building. I really liked the journey plot/sequence and how the MCs met more characters on the way that later became found family. This book has intrigue, adventure, danger, betrayal, curses and so on. The romance was full of tension and even though the mmc had to grow on me due to his overly grumpy vibes I was rooting for them to get together. There are a few steamy scenes with lots of chemistry and some spice. The last like 20 percent of the book had a lot of movement in the sister plot which set up the next book quite well. I definitely recommend this book for my romantasy lovers, thanks to Red Tower and this author for the arc!

[Marisha (MarishaReadsALot) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Red Tower Books for the gifted ARC!

I am a BIG Shanora Williams thriller fan, and now that I've started getting into romantasy, I was so excited to hear she had a debut book in the genre. It was even MORE exciting to receive a fun PR box for this book.

Unsurprisingly, Williams delivered another banger. I loved the world she built, and all the characters were very well-developed. I grew particularly attached to Algar and Zephra (IYKYK).

The tension between our two main characters was *chefs kiss*, and the spicy scenes were spicingggg. I loved everything about Zaira and Thane.

The CLIFFHANGER though!!! I am so excited that it indicates there will likely be another book in this series, but that was a BRUTAL way to end the book!

If you are a fan of the romantasy genre, I HIGHLY recommend Mayhem and the Mortal. Pub date: March 17.

[Angelbelle Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Entangled and Shanora for the gifted copy.

✨Dangerous journey
🗡️Strangers to lovers
✨Hidden agenda
🗡️Dark magic

Shanora Shanora Shanora…Why did you leave us with that ending!! 😭😭 That’s ok I have faith in my shadow daddy and spectacle wearing girly pop 😌

Honestly, this is why I love fantasy and why especially I love Shanora’s fantasy. This world she built and the descriptions of the beastials was everything. On top of that the tension between Zaira and Thane did its thing and although the two do get down this isn’t the spiciest so keep that in mind

With the way I was able to picture everything and feel what each character was going through this was an easy 5 star for me

If you’re looking for an immersive romantasy with adventure and flawed but lovable characters then add this to your tbr. I love this ragtag group and can’t wait to see more

Kelrean tho 👀 I need more I just know I can be it for him 😂

Also pleeeeease tell me we get more character art! I’m dying to see everyone but especially Zephra

****edit to add****

That one handed swoop and grab Thane did on the horse 🥵🥵🥵🥵 sign. me. up

[Monique B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an adventure! 😅 Mayhem and the Mortal definitely has its moments of chaos! If you are a reader of Shanora Williams, her humor is there even in this romantasy!

I wasn't sure what the outcome of Zaira picking Thane, who's a dark assassin, as her travel partner would be. While I was rooting for the crew to make it to their final destination, there were some moments I was like, "Oh no! Here's the end!" Each stop on their journey offers something different & unexpected. That alone kept me invested!

The world building of Thelanor & the magic system are easy to understand. The amounts of romance and fantasy were balanced where one doesn't overshadow the other. The pacing overall was great!

Let's talk about Thane 🩷.. my new shadow daddy! I love a multi layered, mysterious man who isn't afraid to fight for what he wants! I enjoyed trying to figure him out!

Even minor characters stood out & had reason for "being". (Zephra, I'm looking at you! 🤭) There was something to love with everyone involved.

The ending?! Is there going to be more? It's possible to continue this on - I'm here for it, if so!

Thank you to Shanora Williams and Entangled/Red Tower Books for the gifted ARC! 🩷

[Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank the author and Entangled Publishing for the ARC and PR box for this book! It’s my first novel by Shanora Williams and I can’t wait for more.

This book drew me in on page one. The world building, character development, action pack scenes, and some of the greatest plot twists you don’t see coming keep you invested in Zaira’s mission to save her cursed sister from death. There were so many moments where I was like “are you kidding me” and keep turning the pages.

I hope to learn more about the side characters because they bought so much to the story: Humor, complicated backstories, joy, and frustration.

Zaira and Thane bring this energy that has you rooting for them to overcome the circumstances that brought them together. The push and pull with the will they or won’t they angst… undeniable chemistry that leaves you questioning if someone showing up and holding space with you is enough to change your guarded heart.

You’ll want to grab this on 3/17!

[Marissa]

Say no more fam

[MJLovestoRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shanora Williams has yet again stretched her glorious writing wings and given us one wonderful romantasy. The story dives right into the dilemma that Zaira Quinlocke is presented as her sister is being held captive by an evil sorcerer. Seferin has given Analla 30 days to give him a rare prosperity stone in order to gain her freedom from his dungeon. Zaira as the always loyal sibling then embarks on a mission to find someone to help her get to the dreaded Shallows where danger and death are always present with each step taken. When she practically begs the mysterious mask-covered Thane Valkor to help her, thus starts a journey that will ultimately change them both.

When I heard this talented author was going to give the popular romantasy genre a go, I knew she’d give her all and she definitely does! This book held my interest right from the start with Williams making it beyond easy to understand every moment of Zaira’s quest, never making the story too complicated with unfamiliar words and passages. My old brain was able to follow along and once I got going, it was really hard to put this book down.

Zaira and Thane are clearly not each other’s favorite but they find a peculiar rhythm as they pick up a few more members of what is now an interesting crew, each helping in their own way in order to reach The Shallows. The tension between Zaira and Thane, however, is what drives this story. Each finding the other frustrating as can be yet at the same time, wildly addictive. You know the very best kind of love-hate romance!

Even with many times of doubt, Zaira forges on with Thane as their days are filled with hesitation, despair and more than enough roadblocks to make anyone want to end this voyage. But there is a certain spark between them that eventually leads to desire and a passion neither could have ever imagined.

Although Thane is still guarding some heavy secrets, I loved how he started to come clean with Zaira, allowing her to see another side of this sorcerer-assassin. That they found in each other something they both craved but didn’t realize they needed. The steam level is white-hot and I really enjoyed just how well they fit together, both figuratively and literally.

Memorable secondary characters like Rynthea, Algar with his faithful companion Zephra and Prince Kelrean, give this story bursts of color when everything seems so bleak. There is a true sense of camaraderie and sincere friendship as they venture to The Shallows with Zaira and Thane and what develops is a level of trust that becomes the true savior for all of them.

There are plenty of dangerous moments, hair-raising scenes that are beautifully juxtaposed against true times of love, laughter and real companionship. I held my breath more than once as evil continues to plague Zaira, Thane and their wonderful crew, never knowing if their quest to The Shallows would prove to be all for naught.

With a wild cliffhanger that is bound to set the stage for more difficult interactions between our oft-times warring couple, I’ll be here when that next book arrives, knowing that Williams will be once again offering up another dramatic and incredible ride.

The Mortal and the Mayhem is a must-read and will definitely satisfy any romantasy fan. I couldn’t be happier for Shanora Williams and what I know will prove to be yet another fabulous notch in her storied writing career.

5++ huge stars!

[Stina Bradley · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I tell you I devoured this book, I mean I absolutely DEVOURED it. There were no crumbs left behind. None. I inhaled it.

I have been counting down the days since the author announced this release, and let me just say, it did not disappoint for a single second. From the very first page, we dive in with our FMC, Zaira, searching for her sister. And if there’s one thing about me? I would burn the world down for my sisters. That immediate connection to her determination and desperation had me hooked instantly.

The adventure in this story is relentless in the best way possible. The world-building? Absolutely stunning. If you’ve read any of my reviews, you already know I am OBSESSED with unique worlds and imaginative creatures born straight from an author’s mind. Fantasy is such an ambitious genre, it demands so much creativity, and that’s exactly why I adore it. Shanora crafted a world so vivid, so dangerous, and so alive that I wouldn’t mind stepping into it myself. Yes, it’s terrifying. Yes, it’s brutal. But Thane is there… and if he exists there? That’s exactly where I want to be.

Now let’s talk about the characters because WOW. Every single one of them stands out. Not one feels flat or forgettable. Each character carries a powerful backstory that makes you desperate to know more. The main crew is crafted so beautifully it will leave you in awe.

There’s Algar, the sharp-witted thief who’s been down on his luck but still manages to charm you effortlessly, especially alongside Zephra, his rare baby dragon companion (and yes, I would protect that baby dragon with my life). Then there’s Rynthea, a fierce female minotaur fighting not only for her ill brother, the last male minotaur, but for the survival of her entire people. Her strength and heart had me fully invested.

And then… there’s Thane. Listen. I might be biased because I am completely, hopelessly, head-over-heels in love with him, but he stole every scene he was in. Others might disagree, but give me a morally gray man teetering on morally black and I am DONE FOR. The tension in his character? That razor-thin line he walks? I was absolutely smitten.

Shanora’s writing is intricate, lush, and completely immersive. Her prose blooms across the page, pulling you deeper into a world that lingers long after you close the book. The emotional depth she weaves into every interaction is breathtaking. There were moments when I was convinced the story would take a certain turn because the characters felt like they would choose that path, and then it went somewhere entirely unexpected. I gasped more than once.

This is going to be the next big romantasy to hit the shelves. I’m not exaggerating. If you think I am, open it and see for yourself. There is nothing I love more than a fantasy bursting with rich plot and swoon-worthy romance woven seamlessly together. This book kept me on edge, constantly guessing, heart racing, desperate to see what waited around the next corner. And I loved every single second of it.

[Aleksandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much Entangled Publishing for sending me this ARC!

Mayhem and the Mortal is the first book in a Romantic Fantasy series and after loving Shanora's previous romantasy series I had really big hopes for this book and omg it was even better than I expected, I loved this story and Zaira and Thane so much!

When Zaira’s sister is cursed and thrown into a dungeon, Zaira has a month to try to break the curse or her sister dies. Her only hope is a magical crystal only found in The Shallows and hardly anyone survives the journey. To help her chances, Zaira hires Thane to help her get there, but the handsome, grumpy and deadly sorcerer has his own agendas and even with more people joining them on the way, the survival isn’t guaranteed with sorcerers and magical creatures trying to kill them.

I knew I was going to love this book but wow, Shanora really outdid herself with this one and I had so much fun reading it. The world building, magic system, humor, murders, banter, quest, plot twists, romance, I loved it all so much and the amazing characters made it all so much better. The plot was really interesting and perfectly paced, I literally couldn’t put this book down and finished it in one sitting, I loved exploring this fascinating world. Zaira was an incredible FMC, she might have seem a bit naive in the beginning, but she grew a lot in this book and I loved how she never gave up and never lost her optimism even with everything they were all going through, she was the heart of this book. Thane was the morally grey, grumpy, mysterious assassin with tragic backstory that I always love in romantasy books and he was written perfectly, I loved learning about him and seeing him slowly start trusting and caring about others. Both he and Zaira were really stubborn and it definitely wasn’t a love at first sight for them, I loved their slow burn dislike to lovers relationship, I could feel the tension and angst between them and loved their banter and when they finally gave in to their attraction they made me swoon and blush a few times, they might have been polar opposites but were perfect for each other. And of course I also loved Rynthea, Algar and Zephra, these three and Zaira and Thane made such a beautiful found family and I loved reading about them and their dynamics, I already can’t wait to see them all again.

Mayhem and the Mortal is an incredible romantasy book, I absolutely loved it and recommend it to everyone. I already can’t wait for book 2!

[Willie Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨𝔸ℝℂ ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨✨

𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙈𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙖𝙡
More like “Mayhem and the Monsters”

🤩 This was so much fun!!

💫 I heard this described as ‘Dungeons & Dragons meets The Wizard of Oz’ and that couldn’t be more accurate.

🖤 This was a motley crew cast of characters that won’t soon be forgotten.

The journey starts with one girl looking to hire some muscle to protect her on her quest to the very dangerous and very deadly Shallows to find an object to save her sister who is cursed and being held captive by a powerful sorcerer.
Along the way they embark on side quests while adding numbers to their party. Each character comes with their own baggage and sordid history, not fully trusting one another, but they manage to find common ground because they share the same goal. They all need something from this place that no one else seems to be able to return from.

⚔️ This adventure is full of beasties and battles. Blood and betrayal.

We’ve got magic, a badass minotaur with a temper, a territorial shadow (daddy) assassin (swoon), some serious tension, the most adorable mini, pink, fuzzy dragon companion, lots of action, (yes, that kind of action, too🌶️) and several deadly creatures.

True to the Romance part of this Romantasy, we end on a HEA🥰.
But… This is still a Fantasy, so after the end comes the Epilogue which, of course, leaves it wide open for more mayhem and adventure. 🤘

With the short chapters, easy readability, entertaining characters, and heart-pounding action scenes you are sure to get swept away and lost in the pages.

🙌 HUGE thanks to Red Tower Books and Entangled Publishing for an ARC copy! 🙏

[Shabby -BookBistroBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a mythical, dangerous world of magic and mayhem that Shanora creates, holding the readers spellbound. It’s just not sorcerers and damsels, she explores sisterly bonds with passion and loyalty. One that sends you in the most perilous journey across “The Shallows” Zaira wants to burn down the world to find her missing sibling and only an abyss of creatures and spells lays between them
She has no choice but to accept the help of an assassin, Thane Valkor.
On the way they meet Algar and his baby dragon Zephra. A fierce Minotaur - Rynthea who is also fighting for her brother.
The world comes alive under Shanora’s skillful pen, and ends with an open heart so we probably could see some more
“ 4.5 stars for epilogue twist”
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[Vi · Rating 3 out of 5]

The novel was, at best, mediocre. Its characters were markedly underdeveloped, rendering their emotional arcs superficial and lacking in psychological depth. Rather than unfolding through a compelling narrative progression, the story adopted a loosely structured, slice-of-life approach that diminished any real sense of momentum. The dialogue, particularly the banter among the ensemble, was notably absent, depriving the relationships of vitality and texture.

At its core, the premise relied heavily on a conventional, almost antiquated fantasy trope: an ostensibly ineffectual heroine assembling a band of companions to retrieve a mystical stone, break a curse, and save her sister. While such a framework can succeed when invigorated with nuance or subversion, here it felt derivative. The protagonist’s primary redeeming quality—her kindness—appeared to be the sole basis for her appeal to the formidable Thane. Beyond this, she frequently depended on her companions, rarely demonstrating the agency or growth one might expect from a central figure.

The fantasy elements themselves were serviceable but unremarkable, lacking the imaginative scope or richness necessary to elevate the narrative. Ultimately, the conclusion proved predictable, offering little in the way of surprise or thematic resonance.

[buzy_reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

Zaira’s sister has a curse placed upon her by a powerful sorcerer. Zaira hopes finding a stone located in The Shallows will save her sister from dying. The journey is dangerous, but she finds Thane a man known for his magical powers.
…
Thelanor is a place where Mortals, sorcerers, and beastials reside.
…
Mayhem and the Mortal is about Zaira navigating a dangerous magical world with a skilled outlawed sorcerer assassin. Thane guides Zaira across terrain with ruined magic, shifting paths, and vicious creatures.
…
I’m not in the habit of reading romantasy books, but Shanora Williams had me curious about this recent release and it’s why I requested a copy. Williams is a fantastic storyteller. Illustrative speaking she’s nailed it. The writing is top notch. I could envision every dangerous encounter.
…
Shanora Williams had me reminiscing about Shrek and his quest. Although not the same type of quest it still gave my mind something to latch on to. This quest introduces many creatures along the way. With each new creature comes a dangerous obstacle. Zaira has a limited amount of time to find this stone, yet I felt this quest with its side journeys made this task almost impossible to complete. At times I felt with these creatures and there special talents that the task might not be necessary. I kept waiting for them to meet someone who had the stone or could conjure the stone.

[Kiki · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC REVIEW✨

5 ⭐️’s
4 🌶️’s

Thank you to Shanora Williams and Entangled Publishing for an early arc of Mayhem and the Mortal!!!! I really enjoyed this book and had such a great time reading it, it absolutely earned its five stars from me.


Starting with Zaira Quinlocke! I loved her she was such a strong FMC, while throughout this book she had moments of being a little naive and trusting but that trait worked out for her in the end in my opinion. I loved that she was willing to risk any and everything to help out her sister and to break the curse that was placed on her! Though she was as little to trusting she was such a badass when the time called for it, she helped the gang in so many ways with just being a mortal.

Now Thane, he praised me of so much but I could understand his motives and more than made it for when the time called for it. What I loved was how hard he tried to keep his distance from Zaira and to not let feeling develop but he couldn’t help it. Learning more of his story you could see why he was so closed off to a relationship! But his growth was great, and I’m interested to see how much more it develops in the next book!

With the way it ended there will be a second book and I need it in my hands like now because that cliffhanger omg, I was not ready for that!!!

But this book releases on March 17th so be sure to get your copy when it hits bookstores near you!!!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

One mission. One curse. No escape.

Now, that's how you start a trilogy! Mayhem and the Mortal had it all. From an intriguing plot with excellent world-building and pacing to fantastical creatures you can't help but want to know more about.

Zaira and Thaine's story had me hooked from page one. I admired Zaira's devotion and strength. She was a lot tougher than she looked, and I was impressed that she was such a risk-taker. On the outside, Thaine appeared to bad news, unapproachable. But, there was more to him than meets the eye, and I couldn't wait to see where things would go.

Mayhem and the Mortal was filled with action, adventure, and a whole lot of steam. And if that's not enough for you, the betrayal and twists will keep you on the edge of your seat. This story took my breath away in the best possible way, and I loved every second of it.

Zaira and Thaine's story exceeded my expectations, and the doozy of an ending definitely has me desperate for more. If you're a fan of slow-burning, strangers-to-lovers, romantasies, you definitely need to add this one to the top of your to-read pile.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher in exchange for an honest review *

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mayhem and the Mortal was engrossing, exciting and entertaining. When i wasn't reading this story, i was thinking about it, desperate to pick it back up again.

I love a good romantasy, the whole getting lost in a fantasy world with mythical creatures, lots of action, dangerous missions and intriguing characters just appeals to me, it's my ultimate escapisim.

The attention to detail was spot on i almost felt like i was along for the ride with the characters. The author did a fantastic job setting the scenes and describing everything, she really let her imagination run wild and created a unique fantasy world.

Zaria and Thane are strangers on a mission, a mission that's fraught with danger, a life and death situation so they need to trust each other to survive.

GAH! These two kept me on edge, all the tension between them, the chemistry just simmering away growing stronger with each day. Loved Loved Loved them.

The side characters were fantastic too, I'm really hoping to get more from Rynthea and her brother.

Please let there be more books 🤞

[Tiffany Segal · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review for Shanora Williams

Shanora is a real unicorn to me. The woman can write great books in every category: Mystery/Thriller, Romance, and now Fantasy Romance (this was my first of hers).

Mayhem and Mortal was so enticing from the first page. The FMC, Zaira, is the most beautiful blend of being empathetic, kind-hearted, but also a bit of a bad-ass. Nothing will stop her from saving her sister. Her journey to get there is fraught with danger and emotional roller coasters.

The MMC, Thane, is quite mysterious and a bit of a jerk. He is very unlikeable in the beginning but slowly begins to grow on you. There are so many secrets surrounding him.

The cast of characters collected on the journey through this book is absolutely epic. Angar and Ryntheia are so entertaining. Funny and strong, so committed to finishing the journey. Also, so protective of Zaira.

Absolutely loved! Can't wait for book 2. I am really looking forward to the audio for this one.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*

Shanora Williams has written another great story of adventure, high stakes, magic and romance. The story of Zaira wanting to rescue her sister from a curse and hiring the mysterious and grumpy Thane to be her protection. The dynamic between the two of them is well written and had me invested from the first page. The cast of characters that are introduced are funny, brave and you will grow to care for each of them. The world building was put together very well and easy to follow. I throughly enjoyed this story because it balances action, humor and romance and I cannot wait to see where the story goes. Thank you to Red Tower, Entangle Publishing and Shanora Williams for this ARC. Be sure to check this story out when it releases on March 17.

[Azriana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anything Shanora writes, I’m going to read. For this to be a 5⭐️ read and fantasy is not in my top 3 favorite genres, that’s saying a lot!
This story was beautifully written! I enjoyed the chemistry, tension, and slow burn between Zaira and Thane. Zaira is a brave FMC who’s willing to do ANYTHING to save her sister.

The details were so descriptive, it felt like watching a tv series/movie. I could visual everything- including the beastials!

The way it ended had my jaw to the floor! Wow, wow, wow!

Thank you Entangled for the arc!

[Tee Mason · Rating 4 out of 5]

It honestly took me waaaay too long to finish this but I locked in and got it done. Ms Williams, you need to FOREVER write these romantasys! You have a gift! You’re making me laugh, cry, feel these characters! I feel like I know Zaria, Thane, Algar, and Rynthea. I want more, I neeeed more. My favorite had to be Zephra, im an animal lover through and through! No matter the type. Thank you for allowing me to read this amazing book early!

[Chandler Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Shanora for the opportunity to read this before it’s released on March 17th! I enjoyed following Zaira on her quest to save her sister. If you like action packed plots, this one may be for you! The world building is super easy to follow, so this is a great option for someone wanting to dip their toes into the romantasy universe! It was also refreshing to read about a diverse cast of characters. Definitely recommend this read!

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️

[Sandra Bruxvoort]

👀

[Jessica]

"Dungeons & Dragons meets The Wizard of Oz"

[Ashley - The Tattered Page]

Tropes:
Black Romantasy
Dislike to Lovers
Morally Grey Hero
Grumpy x Sunshine
Only One Bed
Quest

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is there anything Shanora can’t write? I absolutely loved this book. Wonderful world building. I loved the characters in the book and really felt like I knew them. What an ending! I can’t wait for book 2!!!!