Crowned by the Shadow

Bound by the Veil #5

by Helen Scott

I never asked to be the Eclipse Child. But life doesn't always give us a choice, does it?

Now my best friend has been abducted by someone I thought was an ally. The Starforged Mirror has been stolen and there’s someone in my visions calling me daughter. Oh, and somewhere in liminal space waits the Void Dragon Empress, who grows stronger with every passing moment waiting for her chance to break me.

As realms crumble and ancient truths emerge, I face an impossible embrace my destiny and sacrifice my future with Thorn, or risk cosmic collapse by failing to defeat the Empress.

Legends say an Eclipse Child brings either salvation or destruction. But I refuse to accept that fate without a fight, especially when I discover who and what the Empress really is.

The final battle approaches. The artifacts call. And I must find the strength to rewrite a prophecy older than the realms themselves.

Genres: Fantasy, Fae

255 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 15, 2025

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Helen Scott spends her time alternating between fantasy and reality. She likes to think she’d be sorted into Hufflepuff and would have been a Physical Kid from Brakebills. Her days are fueled by tea and cuddles from her four-legged kids and amazing husband in their home in the Chicago suburbs.

When not reading or writing, Helen can be found baking, enjoying a walk in the woods, crafting, or playing video games. She’s a lover of sushi and K-Dramas and is convinced there is magic in the world if you know where to look.

Whether paranormal or contemporary, Helen loves writing sassy, kick-butt heroines and drool-worthy love interests. She's the author of the House of Wolves and Magic series, the Cerberus series, and the Of Demons and Dragons series.

Subscribe to Helen’s newsletter for a free book to get started on the adventure today! https://geni.us/HelenScottNewsletter

Reviews

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Senara did not ask for the fate to be hers but she has it now. Now her friend has been taken by the person she thought she could trust. She wants to save her friend and she needs to try to stop the empress. If she fails everything will end but she wants to survive and she will do anything to keep her future. See how she gets on

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

The finale is here, and the time has come to put a stop to the Void Dragon Empress. Expect the unexpected when it comes to this final book in the Bound by the Veil series. I recommend refreshing yourself on the storyline or have read the previous book before you dive into this book so that you’re not feeling disconnected from the storyline.
Crowned by the Shadows picks up shortly after where book four left off with Wyn having been taken. Why? Well, that’s something that will be revealed in due time. What is in store are surprise revelations that are waiting to be uncovered by accident. As Senara and company seek to free Wyn, they make an unexpected revelation connected to Senara. So, the group splits up.
The story focuses heavily on Senara. Thorn gets a few chapters, but this is mostly Senara’s story and the book reflects that. Beyond a handful of surprises this novel is pretty straightforward. If you’re looking for an “epic” battle between good and evil, light and dark, you’re going to be mildly disappointed. We say mildly because at the end of the day...it makes sense in how it plays out.
While the overall storyline and ending is underwhelming it is a satisfying enough ending. There is no HEA, but the characters are allowed a decent ending that I’m sure many readers will enjoy.

[Tara Syrnyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has been such an amazing journey. I’ve loved getting to know these characters and seeing their growth. I really enjoyed that in this final book there were twists and turns that I did not see coming, that totally took me by surprise! There were a few moments where I was holding my breath, anxious at what was happening! This series was an amazing adventure with phenomenal characters that I will miss! I thought that this book concluded Senara and Thorns story well and while I am sad to see it end, I am eager to dive into whatever adventure Helen Scott treats us with next!

[Veronica LaRoche · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited to finally read the conclusion to Senara’s story. It was really good ending to this series. I absolutely love Senara and Thorn. They will always face everything together. The truth that came out, I didn’t see that coming. Sad to see this series end. I really enjoyed the characters and their ending was perfect.


I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everything that has happened in the last four books have all led up to this conclusion. My word were the plot twists and turns so flaming good. More secrets were unearthed all leading up to a clash with the Void Dragon Empress. Which had be building towards from the start of this series. Not before a few tears too. A fab finale to a brilliant series and I loved reading it.

[Lory · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. Crowned by the Shadow delivers the jaw dropping, soul stirring conclusion that the Bound by the Veil series deserves. Helen Scott truly saves the best for last and trust me, it’s so worth the wait.

Even as the final book, there are still twists I never saw coming. The battle against the Void Dragon Empress had me in absolute knots my heart racing, my fingers flying across the pages, desperate to see how it would all unfold. This isn’t just a conclusion; it’s a full-throttle adventure, filled with quests, betrayals, impossible choices, and breathtaking magic.

Senara and Thorn’s mission to recover the three legendary Artifacts the Pendant, the Crown, and the Mirror keeps the tension high and the stakes even higher. With the convergence looming and allies in danger, Senara’s unique duality might be the only hope for their world’s survival. And with Wyn’s life hanging in the balance, the urgency is palpable.

I want to scream about all the revelations, but I won’t spoil a thing just know there are plenty left to uncover, even in this final installment. The character growth, the emotional weight, the magic system it all comes to a head in the most satisfying way.

If you’ve followed this series from the beginning, prepare to be blown away. If you haven’t started it yet what are you waiting for? This is fantasy romance at its boldest and most brilliant.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this!

OMG what a way to end this fantastic series! Book 5 of Bound by the Veil series was a fantastic way to close out this special story.

Senara and Thorn are still trying to fight off the void and the Void Dragon Empress AND get her best friend Wyn back from Eldric who took her in the last book. Senara is torn between what to do next – does she immediately go save Wyn from Eldric or get the Starforged mirror back. Working with Van and Volker, they split up to take care of both things. While retrieving the mirror, Senara is reunited with her father, who she believed to be dead, but when the Corrupted corner them, he sacrifices himself to save Senara and Thorn.

The story continues with their fight to save Wyn and fight off Eldric, which was crazy, but when they do save her, she has been changed by the void and has new powers because of it. But thankfully those powers can help their team fight against the Void Dragon Empress.

Without telling you the whole story, I will just say that I was ridiculously surprised at who the Void Dragon Empress ended up actually being - I did not see THAT coming! It was amazing but surprising – I really enjoyed how this book and series ended. Definitely a must-read!!

[Samantha Silensky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series truly showed the full definition of soul mates/ bonded. Senara and Thorns bond has proven time and again how important it is. This book, and its finale especially, proves that. The war may have been ultimately lost if it wasn’t for the bond they have, and how strong it really is. That they can and have pulled each other back from the darkest places, and continue to seek each other out even when they’re fighting internal battles, proves how deep their bond is. I loved seeing just how much they could depend on each other and trust each other. And how intricately they’ve tied themselves to each others lives.
There is also the other bond Senara has, and that’s with Wyn. And with Wyn AND the Mirror taken, Senara struggles with her loyalty to Wyn, and going to save her, vs her determination to save everyone, by getting the mirror back to fight the Void Dragon Empress.
There are so many twists and turns, along with MANY surprises, that it’s difficult to not give spoilers. But I highly recommend this book and series. I loved the rollercoaster it was, and am a little sad it’s over.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crowned by the Shadow by Helen Scott is book five in the Bound by the Veil Series. Needless to say you must read these books in order as they’re not standalones. That being said I was interested to see how this series came to a close. (Don’t worry, no spoilers!) This book completely took me by surprise as I wasn’t expecting some of the twists that happened; I was caught off guard. I will say I really enjoyed reading Senara and Thorn’s relationship development through the entire series… the ups, downs and everything in between. Even this book continues to throw situations at them. Senara continues to show strength as well. The battle had me anxious and on the edge of my seat, it was very well done. (I want to say more but don’t want to spoil anything) What I enjoyed the most was that the emphasis was not only love but friendship also has equal importance, which was definitely a highlight. This book was written well with an intriguing story and great character development. Overall I had a good reading experience and would recommend checking out this series.

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this is the end of Senara and Thorn’s story, and it really felt like everything has been building to this. The danger with the Void Dragon Empress made this book darker and more intense than the others, and I found myself holding my breath through a lot of the Obsidian Keep scenes. Whew! The artifacts, the corruption, and the looming convergence kept the tension high all the way through. Such a wild ride.

Senara’s growth stood out the most for me. She is still stubborn and fierce, but here she’s carrying all of her scars and vulnerabilities too. Thorn stayed broody and protective, but this time their bond felt solid in a way it never has before. After all the push and pull, it was satisfying to see how much trust finally exists between them.

The pacing worked better for me than in some of the earlier books, even if a few dreamlike passages dragged. What I liked most was how everything finally came together. The artifacts. The fae. The Wyn’s fate. It felt like a true conclusion to their journey.

It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to this series, but the finale gave me both closure and plenty of emotion. Definitely worth the ride.

[Melanie Nelson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Crowned by the Shadow by Helen Scott ultimately landed much the same for me as the rest of the series. As a conclusion, it didn’t elevate the story or change my overall feelings. The plot unfolded in a very linear way, with answers and solutions conveniently appearing right when the characters needed them, which removed much of the tension and sense of discovery.

Senara remained a frustrating protagonist for me. Her bossy, “my way is the only way” attitude dominates the narrative, leaving little room for growth or meaningful collaboration. Meanwhile, Thorne felt sidelined for most of the book, more present in name than in impact. Because of that imbalance, I still don’t fully buy into their relationship or the supposed depth of their mate bond—it never quite felt earned or convincing.

While the world and premise had potential, this finale didn’t deliver the emotional payoff or complexity I was hoping for. Fans of straightforward storytelling may enjoy it, but for me, the ending wrapped things up too neatly without addressing the deeper issues that lingered throughout the series.

[Del Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an absolutely epic conclusion to the series! Heart stopping action, deep emotion, and a truly satisfying ending! Expect plenty of twists and turns as well!
This book starts you right in the middle of an emotional whirlwind, and it really keeps the pedal to the metal. Senara, Thorn, and their friends are up against impossible odds!
I really appreciate how her relationship with Wyn is equally as integral as her relationship with Thorn. It’s refreshing when both love AND friendship matter! It makes the characters feel more well rounded and real.
This is one that really keeps you riveted from the very beginning. Every book in the series has been stellar, and to have it finish well is the icing on the cake. I do think I might have enjoyed a little bit more spice—but I understand not every series is going to have graphic spice.
This is the first series I’ve read from this author, but I greatly look forward to checking out more from her!

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The final book of Senara's journey follows her and Thorn through many challenges and difficult decisions. Freeing Wyn and witnessing her transformation is the first hint how things can be and what is the true purpose of the Eclipse child. Senara discovers secrets long buried, battles against Eldric, learns the truth about the Void Dragon Empress, and does not shy away from the sacrifice needed to restore the balance and defeat the evil.
Love conquers all, and the importance of balance are the key themes in this book. Nothing is as it seemed, and plans have to change under time pressure. The bond between Senara and Thorn is stronger than ever, Wyn remains the same person despite her transformation, and the fae courts seem to never learn :) I liked the conclusion, the solution they found, and seeing the world being restored. Well deserved HEA!

[Missy Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I needed this amazing read, and finale. This series has really touched me with its main characters of Senara and her guys bonds and journey. They could not accomplish all that they did if their bond was not as strong as it was. How they played off of each other, was each others strength. It was not a easy ride, but man was it a good one.

So I would recommend reading the series in order, to get the full story. Crowned by Shadows is book five and the final. So we pick up where four left off with Wyn taken. So Senara is looking to free him. They discover why he was taken, with an unexpected connection that has them split up.

Senara, as is fitting being the last book, is the focus of this one.

If you are looking for a good epic read that breaks it down to good and evil, this is a great series for you. I know I enjoyed it very much.

[Ines · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 *

Even though “Crowned by the shadow” is the final book in the Bound by the Veil series, there are still plenty of revelations left to enjoy. The quest is still going, resulting in an action-filled finale with plenty of twists and turns, and the way it all ends comes with its own unexpected reveals.

Bound by the Veil is one of those series where a lot happens between start to finish. The story, the characters’ struggles, it has all changed so many times. But most of all, these characters have evolved and grown tremendously. It’s hard to pick favorites, even between side and main characters, because they all had an important role to play. This series is definitely written for those who prefer a story with depth and lots of developments.

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back with Thorn and Senara as we journey with them on their final part of their story. Their journey so far has been long and difficult at times. Other times it is filled with love and happiness. We see so much growth and understanding in this story. There are shocking revelations made that will have you glued to the story. I absolutely couldn’t put the story down. I absolutely love Helen Scott’s writing and the worlds that she creates. This one was no different as we journeyed between hate and acceptance. The story is extremely well written and developed. It will have you on the edge of your seat at times. The ending is beautiful and shocking all at the same time. It is absolutely a must read and the story/series does not disappoint.

[R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following straight on from the twists and shifting loyalties of book four, Crowned by the Shadows takes Senara and Thorn’s journey into even darker and more dangerous territory. The trials they face here push both their abilities and their relationship to the limit, and I enjoyed seeing how far they’ve grown since the start of the series. Familiar faces return, some proving to be true allies and others keeping their motives hidden until the last moment, and the political tensions in the fae world add an extra layer of intrigue.

The pacing slows a little in places compared to earlier books, but the final chapters deliver plenty of action and emotional punch, setting the stage for what I hope will be an epic conclusion. A gripping continuation and a worthy addition to the series.

[Julorie Siefert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Senara, Thorn and their friends Wyn, Ronan, Van and Volker, as they struggle but with determination to find their path, to be able to stop the convergence. This story is very enlightening as I can see a parallel with the current world, always trying to control or stamp out something different because we don’t understand it or it is different from us. This story has a very complex story line that show life is about balance. To succeed Senara, Thorn and the rest will have to change their thought process about good and bad and learn about balance just as Wyn learned with what happened to her, what oh no you will have to read to find out what happened. The concept of sometimes it is just basic communication. A very interesting conclusion to the story it did not disappoint.

[Ivonne Santiago-Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a bitter sweet end to a long journey. I loved this series from book 1 and being able to see such character growth, plot development and how every piece added to the picture as a whole was great. I loved seeing everything come to fruition , the roles they chose weren’t the easy ones but the selfless ones .

This final book came with dramatic twist and turns that I don’t think any of us saw coming . The excitement all the way to the end kept me drawn in and while I am sad the story has come to an end I absolutely loved the way she wrapped the story up . If you love fantasy reads , fae drama that reach beyond their own realm , drama , angst , and emotional roller coasters . This is a great series to pick up .

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book really wrapped up the series nicely. I thought the story we finally come to learn about the Void Dragon Empress honestly makes a ton of sense. The way Senara chose to battle in this book was so wise and built up from the very first pages of Book 1. We have seen her growth and maturity, and the way she is able to heal those around her is what truly makes the story special. My favorite part of the entire story is the special character that Senara rescues and meets for only a short while. It is heartbreaking and love incarnate. And that's Senara's whole story isn't it? I can't believe the journey is at an end. What a ride we've been on!

[Helen Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

With Wyn being taken, the mirror stolen and the final hour approaching where they will have to finally stand against the Void Dragon Empress things look very bleak for Senara. But with Thorn, her anchor by her side, they might just make it through.

"There may be nothing I can do to stop the corruption, but I can help you carry the weight. I can be your anchor when the darkness pulls at you. I can remind you who you are when the whispers try to make you forget."

This had everything a conclusion should have- excitement, intrigue and more than a few surprises! If you have followed this story from the beginning you will not be disappointed by this ending

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Senara and Thorn lead the charge in the fifth and final book of the Bound by the Veil series! Everything has been leading up to this moment, and while our two heroes have been put through the wringer, they have kept up with what they need to do to save those they love. That doesn't mean the situation they find themselves are not nail biting, and this book will definitely keep readers on the edge of their seat. We get reunited moments, saving friends, defeating evil and a revelation that will have your jaw drop! All in all, this series was wonderful from start to finish, and I look forward to read more from this author.

[Lexi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m sad to say goodbye to this world along with these amazing characters! It’s been a wild ride which this last book ramps up even more. Senara and Thorne have so much they need to accomplish along with their friends. They need to rewrite a prophecy and prevent a terrible fate from befalling everyone. There’s so much action that kept me needing to know what would happen next. There’s a good amount of twists to enjoy. And then there’s the romance along with the friendship which both have equal importance in the story. I love the way it all ends. Definitely an amazing series that’s well worth the read.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been an epic series that has sucked me into this incredible world since book one, and this final book gives us a worthy conclusion. It’s been one hell of a journey and Serena and Thorn have been through and suffered so much but this final addition brings everyone and everything together. Kick ass action, heart pounding adventure and brimming with danger, drama, twists and turns and all of the emotions, this had me glued to the pages right up until the very end as the author gives an epic ending that you thought you could see coming but ended in a totally different way. So, so good, I have enjoyed every minute of this series.

[Penny · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are at the last book in this series, and it goes out with a bang. Poor Senara and Thorn have been through so much, and this book doesn’t let up on them. They must rescue Wyn, but there is so much standing in their way. I can’t say too much, really, since this is the fifth book, and I don’t want to inadvertently spoil anything. This is a very intense, well-written, action-filled, and completely satisfying ending to an entertaining series. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crowned by the Shadow delivers the jaw dropping, soul stirring conclusion. The battle against the Void Dragon Empress had my heart racing, Senara and Thorn’s mission to recover the three legendary Artifacts the Pendant, the Crown, and the Mirror keeps the tension high and the stakes even higher. We see so much growth and understanding in this story, Once you start you will not be able to stop, I loved this book from beginning to end, and even though, it's sad to see it come to an end it was totally worth it.

[Joy Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helen gives us a fantastic conclusion to the Bound by the Veil series! The story of Senara, Thorn and company comes to an epic conclusion in this book. All of the loose threads are tied together in a very satisfying HEA for everyone. Dive into this wonderfully written story with complex characters and plot twists that keep you off balance and turning pages throughout to find out what happens next. I loved reading this story and highly recommend the series! I'm looking forward to seeing what this author does next! Don't miss out on this book!!

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the final book of the series and takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions that ends in a satisfying conclusion.

The changes and development in the characters since we first met them are amazing, I've loved watching Senara, Thorn and Wyn grow and evolve to the people they are at the end of the tale.

The final battle and the reveals were both unexpected in the moment, but made a satisfying sense once you considered the story as a whole. Everything feels like you've come full circle.

I've enjoyed this series, heavier on the fantasy, than on the steam, but still a good read.

[Kristin Lindes · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolutely epic finale to a phenomenal series. Senara and Thorn's story is gripping. It's deeply emotional and it is the true definition of love and bonds - soul mates. It's rounded out well, with emphasis on friendship and soul bonds. These characters are everything.

The book was exciting, from start to finish with twists that I did NOT see coming. I was truly surprised at who the Void Queen actually was. You are not ready for this ride! It is epic but in the BEST possible way. This was a fantastic series with an ending that did it justice. Just read it, you won't regret it.

[Blue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jaw dropping!!!

This conclusion was the best thing for this series!!! There was so many twists and turns I was bewildered! This had my heart in my throat and me quickly turning pages I almost couldn't keep up with my own self lol. This was full of adventure, heart break, betrayals and so much more! I loved all the tension and danger from the characters and side characters to the character growth and how the magic system was set up! I highly recommend this series if you haven't started it yet!