Shadowfall: Veil of Fire Book 2

by C.K. Franziska

His shadows stretch across the land—Shadowfall draws near.
And this time, it’s not a dream.

When Titania finds herself in captivity once more, she realizes the torture isn't over—it's only the beginning. But this time, she’s not just a captive—she’s a sacrifice to the one being she has spent her entire life hiding the Master of Nightmares.

Meanwhile, Balor faces a battle of his own. Heirwar, the war for Heliosia’s throne, is supposed to pit him against his five siblings. As blood is about to be spilled, fate strikes a crueler blow.

Titania’s fate is sealed as she is taken to the depths of darkness. The Master of Nightmares is rising.

Balor must defy destiny itself to stop Shadowfall from consuming everything he loves. But how do you fight the most powerful being that even Nightmares fear? And how do you keep your soul intact doing so?

335 pages, Hardcover

Published May 23, 2025

About the author

C.K. Franziska is the author of the finished A Speck of Darkness Series, The Crymzon Chronicles, Wish for it Duet, and the Veil of Fire Series. She is the wife of a traveler, as well as the mother of two mini versions of herself and way too many pets. In her spare time, she is also a photographer, traveler, full-time entertainer, and animal lover. She does her best writing at night, at the beach listening to the waves, or while camping. C.K. loves to play make-believe, transporting readers to a place where heroes must step out of the seemingly endless cycle of family curses, where magic is as beautiful and untamable as we think, and where every person deserves to be celebrated.

Reviews

[Scarlett Kouyou · Rating 5 out of 5]

5🌟 2🌶️
Second book in a slow burn dark Romantasy.
🖤Unique Magic System
🖤Black Cat-Golden Retriever
🖤 “WHO DID THIS TO YOU”
🖤 I don’t wanna spoil this book so that’s all you get, read my review on book one for more details 😆

I am UNWELL. I went through a BROAD ARRAY of emotions while reading this. And the plot twist was… incredible. I CANNOT WAIT FOR BOOK 3. The way that I nearly threw my kindle after finishing this. Please give me book 3, I beg. 😆

Thank you to C.K. Franziska for the ARC, I am obsessed with you and your writing. 🖤

[Katie Gordert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received the ARC for this, I couldn’t wait to read the second book, so despite the fact I only read physical books, I read the digital ARC… and it didn’t disappoint. A little bit of spice, a lot of plot, twists and turns that are perfect. I can’t wait for the next book and this one isn’t even technically published yet. lol

[Louise McPadden · Rating 5 out of 5]

NO SPOILERS


Very lucky to receive an ARC of this book, Thank You.


Fantastically written, great follow on from Dreamcursed.

I definitely wasn’t expecting the ending in this book OMG.

The plot twists after plot twists kept me engaged with the story and turning the pages to find out what would happen next. Shocked at some.

I still have lots of unanswered questions from the ending!!! Need another book!!!!

Again lucky to receive ARC before release date.

[Kamilla Utne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do not read this if you don’t want spoilers.

I definitely did not expect this book to end how it did. While reading it, it makes you question if what you really read was what you read, but then some of it gets confirmed later on. It’s eventful for sure and had me on the edge of my sofa several times. I finished it yesterday and had to take a day to just work through my thoughts before reviewing. I can easily say that my thoughts are still kinda all over the place. As you can see from my review 😅😂

I was sad with what happened to milow, I truly hope that there is a possibility for the people living in dreamworld to come back at the end.

I’m also still confused abt the master of nightmare and him using balor as a host. First I thought he appeared as balor for titania bc balor is portrayed as a weakness of hers, but as the story progressed I realised that the master of nightmares and titania are connected on a different level through the fallen star. But Balor still has a place in my heart and I hope they are endgame.. it did not make sense to me that balor was a host for the nightmare bc when nova used della she was always in novas form. But two times at least the master of nightmares presented himself for titania in balors form🤔🤔

There is also the fact that Silas had no pain or discomfort from his sickness in the dreamworld, this is interesting and what does it truly mean? And who is the queen? Is it dades mother? Or milows mother(this is my guess), but whilst reading it i also thought maybe she could be titanias mother 🤔

It was definitely a really good read and I’m definitely going to spend some time thinking/wondering abt it bc this for sure made the wheels turning!

I’m again truly thankful for the opportunity to get to read the book before it’s released 🥰

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ive finished reading my ARC copy of Shadowfall written by C. K. Franziska. This is a dark fantasy and the second book in the Veil of Fire series.

"You don't have to fight. But you can't give up."

This book continues where the first book has ended and I have to say that te beginning made me gasp, it shocked me and whats better than a book starting that way? And thats not it.. the ending also shocked me and well it promises that the third book will be the most dangerous one yet, and I cant wait.

"I'm nothing more than her weapon, her blade. And blades have no choice but to cut."

This story is also about Titania and Balor. Titania seems to be a captive over and over again and her goal seems to get lost along the way. Balor's fate seems to be sealed early on, but what seems a miracle gets him and his brothers and sister to safety, or maybe it only seems that way.

"Courage is a luxury for the living."

This second book was just as an amazing read as the first one. This story is full of adventure, danger and tension. I love how the author also can keep the balance between giving details and keeping the mystery like in the first book. This makes that you want no keep reading to know more, but also know enough to want keep reading. Themes like grief, loss, love, heartbreak, betrayel and loyalty are woven through the book, what makes it an even more interesting read.

"You're finally where I want you. No more running. No more hiding.'

I cant say anything other than that I really loved this book and I think this series is great. I give this book five stars.

[Janneke RS · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so grateful to be again an arc reader for C.k.Franziska. Her books are so good every time. This one included. We learn more about the nightmares, and a few new characters are coming into the story.
It is so original and I just wanted to keep reading. I just need more!

[Sam’s Sagas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, ok, so I liked book 2 more than book 1. It’s still a good bit of jumping with POV. But it’s honestly not too hard to follow, and mostly continues down the same time line, just different person. There’s more to this one action wise and more descriptions on the Nightmares too. And finally more on the Master of Nightmares!!! I was hoping for more on him and we definitely got it 😍 I’m a bit late on reviewing this ARC, but I’m glad I got to continue the story!!

[Dominique (The Diary of a Reader)]

I don't know how I feel about it...review coming soon.

EDIT: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💥 (4.5 stars)

Sometimes, books aren’t what you expect. Sometimes… they’re worse. Sometimes, they’re better. And sometimes—they catch you off guard, soft as smoke, then burn everything clean.

Shadowfall by C.K. Franziska didn’t ask for permission. It slipped into my TBR like a secret and left like a storm.

This isn’t just a review. It’s a reckoning.

A dark fantasy drenched in longing, power, and grief, Shadowfall doesn’t just build a world—it breaks one. It’s a brutal beauty of a novel, a sequel that scorches everything laid out in Dreamcursed and dares you to blink. Franziska’s prose isn’t written—it’s conjured. Velvet-lined and blade-sharp. Soft where you expect steel. Cruel where you hope for kindness.

I went in expecting to be impressed. I read Dreamcursed. I’d already fallen hard for Franziska’s tangled characters and razor-slick storytelling. But Shadowfall doesn’t play fair. It starts where the last book left us—on the edge of betrayal and unraveling magic. At first, it lulls you. Comforts you. And then… it doesn’t.

The narrative starts to split at the seams. Every chapter peels back another layer. Every moment asks questions you don’t yet have the answers to. This isn’t a book that holds your hand—it lets you walk into the fire and figure it out alone.

And gods, the prose. It's dangerously gorgeous. Each phrase curls like smoke, wrapping around your ribs, lulling you just long enough to forget how much it’s going to hurt. Because it does hurt. Not in the way of cheap twists or shock value. No—this pain is earned. It’s slow. Intentional. Necessary.

Shadowfall is grief as landscape. Sacrifice as currency. It’s about what happens when power demands a price, and your hands are the ones holding the match.

And yet—there’s one burn I couldn’t ignore: Balor. After everything, he still falters. Still trembles when the story begs him to rise. In a world that bleeds, he stays soft, and not in a good way. While everything else evolves—stakes, characters, truths—Balor stagnates. It’s frustrating. The potential is there, aching and unresolved. Maybe in the next book… maybe.

But even with that one shadow, Shadowfall is breathtaking.

If Dreamcursed was the spark, Shadowfall is the wildfire. It doesn’t just raise the stakes—it redefines the game. The tone shifts. The truths twist. And suddenly, what you thought was a rebellion story becomes something far more dangerous, more human.

This is for the readers who want to be wrecked. For those who crave soft horrors, lyrical knives, and stories that whisper before they scream. If you’re looking for clean lines and safe endings? Turn back.

But if you want to feel everything—this book will light the match and leave you watching the flames.

Check out my full review on my blog The Diary of a Reader

[fantasybookquet · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Okay, I’m still struggling to process everything that just happened because Shadowfall was an absolute whirlwind. Franziska is not just writing books—she’s straight-up reshaping realities. I read this in one sitting because I physically could NOT pull myself away. If this is what it means to be “cursed,” then I’ll gladly stay cursed forever. Thank you. 😭💀🔥

If you love books that make you question reality and leave you screaming at the ceiling, Shadowfall is an absolute must-read. I’m begging you, PLEASE pick this up. You will NOT be the same. 😭🔥

⚠️SPOILERS⚠️
⚠️SPOILERS⚠️
⚠️SPOILERS⚠️

Where do I even begin?? The mirror world revelation?? The way the map was mirrored all along, and I only fully grasped it when Titania and the others ended up in this twisted reflection of their reality?? The nightmares lurking everywhere, the relentless tension of Shadowfall closing in—it was CHAOS in the best way possible. My brain was BUZZING.

Okay, Balor. BALOR. This man—he’s everything. The way he struggles with his feelings for Titania, that internal conflict just boiling beneath the surface, and then that scene where he finally kissed her?? 😭💖 I’ve been waiting for that, and it did not disappoint. And then, right after—nightmares, chaos, running for their lives. Balor carrying Titania because her ankle is broken, and I’m here screaming. But that moment at the portal?? When Balor has to leave Titania behind with The Master of Nightmares(TMON)?? MY SOUL. I was actually gutted. Watching him try to process the loss—no words.😭

And the Master of Nightmares… WHAT. His dynamic with Titania is so complicated. One second, he’s this intimidating, manipulative force; the next, he’s telling her his backstory and treating her wounds. Why did I almost feel bad for him?? Like, WHY. I should not be feeling sympathy for this nightmare lord, and yet here we are. That scene where he did the “deed” (you know what I mean) had me so conflicted because his power over the dreamworld blurs every boundary of control. The way he could control her emotions?? CREEPY but also brilliant writing. My brain is fried.🤯💀

ALSO, Lucia confessing her feelings?? I was NOT ready. The mirror world war, the nightmares swarming, the Master of Nightmares playing this twisted game—and then we get Balor’s supposed return, but it’s NOT Balor, and it’s TMON, and he’s like, “I told you to run”??? What am I supposed to do with that??? 😱😭

And Balor being Nightborn instead of Sunborn?? Everything I thought I knew was a LIE. The foreshadowing, the lies, the sheer brilliance of it all—I feel so stupid for not catching it sooner, but it makes the reveal hit SO HARD. And TMON being just a weapon for some mysterious “queen”? The stakes have gone from high to cosmic. I am unwell.😮‍💨

This book shattered me. It’s intricate, mind-bending, and so darkly captivating that I’ll be thinking about it for a LONG time. I need book three like I need AIR.🙏❤️‍🩹

Special Note to C.K. Franziska:
I don’t even know what to say other than thank you for destroying me. I am emotionally wrecked, but in the best way possible. The way you write these complex, conflicted characters is actual magic. I don’t know if I should hug you or throw my (metaphorical) book at you, but I am obsessed. THANK YOU for the eARC and for absolutely wrecking my heart. 😭💖

[Nicole Groom · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 Star - Overall I found the premise of The Veil of Fire books so far to be an intriguing & unique concept in the world of fantasy stories that so often mirror one another. Shadowfall has a somewhat sci-fi/dystopian feel to it with the addition of the "Dreamworld" which was only eluded in the first book, "Dreamcursed". I enjoyed the progression of the storyline, the introduction of the new characters, the dark feel of Dreamworld and all its creatures. The dark MMC, "The Master of Nightmares", has an actual presence in this book as we learn a little more about him including his real name, where he came from, and at least part of what his true intentions are towards our FMC "Titania". There's somewhat of a love triangle playing here that will likely come to fruition with the next book as Titania develops feelings for a human in the real world and a somewhat unexpected attraction to the Master of Nightmares in Shadowfall. I found the playout of that scenario a bit to be expected however the details are still somewhat a mystery (without giving too many details away). I really like the dark feel of Dreamworld and some of the revelations and questions left at the end of this book. I enjoy dark stories, dark characters and mystery so those all kept me into this book.

As far as the overall writing, I did feel in both books thus far that the writing was somewhat all over the place and often times lacked cohesion. For instance, many, many times throughout both books the 2 main characters, Titania and Balor, would say one thing and a few lines later say the opposite. They're behavior was often at odds with the writing and themselves. One minute the story was building them as a strong, independent, confident fighter, the next they were weak, lacked intelligence & skill and seemingly falling apart. I found the writing to be hard to digest as it was either rushed, contradicting itself, or giving you too much unnecessary information while leaving too many things unanswered that really needed to be explained to allow the story to make sense. I felt that Titania and Balor were written in a way that made them seem awfully immature and naive even though they are supposed to be the main characters and leading the story and other characters through their strength and wisdom. I felt there were many unanswered questions that seem vital to truly understanding the entire picture, and not in a "lets not give the plot away" sense but rather a lack of solid writing. There were no real major plot twists however, Shadowfall did offer a couple of plot surprises towards the end which I assume will be explained further and played out in the next book.

Bottom line, the idea behind the story, Dreamworld, and its real world counter parts I find to be a refreshing new concept and had high hopes the story would really captivate my attention. However, the writing competency & skill left me wanting and often frustrated. I enjoyed the progression of the overall storyline in Shadowfall to be more entertaining as well as the introduction of all that Dreamworld encompasses. The book ends with I'd say more of a question than a cliff hanger but enough that it will leave you wanting to know how the story will end for everyone and the two worlds involved. I will likely sign up to be an ARC reader for the next book as well so I can find out what happens next and hopefully feel more connected and enthralled with both the characters and the worlds.

[Jessica Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this book about a month ago, and I still am thinking about it. My heart was put through a shredder, and I mean that in the best possible way. Franziska has taken the foundations laid in Dreamcursed and built a towering, gothic cathedral of angst, betrayal, and spice that will leave you breathless.

.Picking up in the suffocating darkness of the dungeon, the stakes are immediately higher, the world darker, and the characters more desperate. Titania's journey is a brutal, soul-baring exploration of resilience, while Balor's evolution from a reluctant royal to a man forced to confront impossible choices is nothing short of heartbreaking. The tension between them is a slow-burn that finally ignites, and the payoff is everything I could have hoped for and more.

Honestly, it's the expansion of the world and its lore that truly shines. The Dreamworld is a terrifying, mesmerizing, and wholly original creation. The introduction of the Master of Nightmares adds a layer of complex villainy that is both terrifying and tragically compelling. His dynamic with Titania is a twisted, fascinating dance that will have you questioning everything.

Be warned: this book will hurt. The content warnings are there for a reason. There are moments of profound darkness and shocking violence, but they are never gratuitous. Every painful twist serves to deepen the emotional core of the story, making the moments of light, hope, and love shine all the brighter. Shadowfall is a stunning, emotionally resonant, and unforgettable reading experience. I'm already counting down the days until the next installment.

[Brieanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short Summary:

🩶 When Titania finds herself as a sacrifice to the Master of Nightmares, Balor knows he has to rescue her. But the world of Nightmares is not as it seems and there is so much more to uncover than any of them could have known.

Best Parts:

🌘 Family loyalty
🌘 The Master of Nightmares

Worst Parts:

🌘 Della
🌘 Balor

This was so good. Better than the first one, in my opinion. The plot continued well and kept a better pace. The tension between Titania and the Master is wild. There were some aspects (monster sex with a jackal???) I was not even close to anticipating. I ended with more questions than I started with and I cannot wait for the next one. Balor's need to "save" Titania are getting on my nerves though. Like, dude, you're harming people in this process. Get over it.

**Special thank you to CK Franziska for an advanced copy of this novel!**

[Lisa Franz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honoured to be part of the ARC team and boy, what a vibe this was!

The journey and character development, possible redemption arcs, plot twists and revelations that left you holding on for the next chapter were brilliantly written.

The fast paced and epic fantasy feel made this such an enjoyable read.
I did have to re read a couple of parts to check what I had read, as my mind was racing ahead with excitement, but the revelations begin to fall into place with this second instalment.

I can't wait for the next book, to see where this world goes!

Thank you for having me as part of your ARC team, I have loved this incredible journey.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy crap on a cracker!

I was eagerly anticipating reading this book as it’s the second in this series. The premise is so clever.

We follow the FMC Titania as she navigates life in the world, alone. In the first book, the MMC Balor comes into her life, and in this book they work to find each other after becoming separated. In this book, nightmares are real, and they can hurt you.

Titania is trying to save the world, and Balor is trying to save his family.

The twist at the end? Chef’s kiss to the author, because I never saw it coming. I am now frothing at the mouth for the next book in this series!

[Brianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadowfall is the second book in the veil of fire trilogy.

Titania and her crew race to close the gate that cause Shadowfall, a event that purge the word into darkness and cause creatures known as Nightmares cause havoc across the lands.

Balor and his slibings try to right the wrong of their father as well as try to save titania from her prison. The favorite, dade, gets somewhat of a redemption arc in this after being an asshole in the first book.

There is also some delicious tension between our FMC and the villain as well!!

Fans of One dark window and two twisted crowns will like this one!

I was given this arc exchanged for an honest review!

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadowfall is part two in the Dreamcursed series. Everyone finds their way into the dreamworld unintentionally and must find their way out. Except Titania, who stays behind to uncover a shocking truth between her and the Master of Nightmares. HUGE plot twist here. I was shook. Shadowfall is upon them, and they must find a way to stop it, as unlikely as it seems that they’d succeed.
I loved this book. It was a captivating page turner. The spice was good, although a little upsetting considering who it was with (iykyk.) I cannot wait for the next book. This author does great with suspenseful ending that make you NEED to read the next book

[DarkDigital Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG I cannot spoil anything in this chaos but you need to follow Titania and her journey through the dimensions.

All of Heir-war has been interrupted by A huge event. Brothers vs Brothers and Titania is both a bride and a sacrifice??? Destroying the portals should have worked but instead they find themselves in a mirror realm!?

The master of nightmares rules this realm and he has his claws in Titania and won’t let go, so what will become of Balor and the rest??? Are diamonds truly a girls best … defense?

That is all I will say here as this is the second book in the trilogy and there is SO much happening it takes some absorption.

[Georgee · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible follow up to Dreamcursed! Lots of twists and turns I didn’t see coming, the ending has me waiting impatiently for book 3 so I’m so excited for how quickly it is being released after this one!
Spice scale probably 🌶️🌶️ (I’ve seen some things so take that with a grain of salt lol)

Some things I’m still questioning but I think a re-read will fix that and hopefully book 3 as well 🤩

I love the authors writing style and the world she has built! 100% recommend this series to everyone who loves Romantasy 🖤

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so lucky to receive this book as an ARC reader!

Arc review
Okay! Umm what!? I need book 3 like now!! So many questions! I really liked this book it has everything and more!

This book started off right where book one ended I loved that!
The plot twist and turns and just everything had me turning the page to find out more I couldn’t put it down. Some chapters had me like WHAT!!
Everyone needs to read this book!

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore this book series! It’s filled with so many twists and turns that keep me on the edge of my seat. The writing is simply breathtaking; the details are so vivid that I can almost picture everything in my mind. The characters are written so flawlessly that they feel real and relatable. I received this as an Arc and I usually only read print but I HAD to read it as soon as possible! This is the second book so if you haven’t read that then you need to ASAP!

[Amber Kuykendoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gripping sequel in the veil of fire series seamlessly picks up from Dreamcursed pulling me into a world where magic burns and betrayal lingers! With the prose writing and slow building tension this book is a mesmerizing read that leaves a lasting impression! She masterfully unravels expectations, revealing villains with softer faces and dangers lurking in unexpected places which will have you on edge! Definitely a book to be added to your TBR! Absolutely loved it

[Kayla Jayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey. Hi. Hello!
So I have been a horrid ARC reader this last month as life has been lifeing MAJORLY! But I have finally finished Shadowfall!!!!
Loved this book as much as the first!
Did I fully love the cliffhanger ending ? Not really but ABSOLUTELY at the same time 🤣 Honestly can’t wait for the next book! This is going to be one hell of a series!!!!

Oh and the slow burn…….. SO WORTH THE WAIT!!!!
All I can say is - good GODS I love the master of nightmares now!!!!

[Isabelle Houseknecht · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

This is the second book in the series. After I read book one I was excited to see what book two had in store and it did not disappoint!! The story line was amazing and the twists and turns of the plot were exactly what the book needed! And the ending!!! That was completely unexpected but soooo good!! I am excited to see what’s in store for book three and I am even more excited to add this one to my trophy shelf with shadow fall!

[Victoria Floyd · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of Titania and Balor continues with multiple twists and turns. The Master of Darkness finally appears and he’s not quite what you think he is. Then there’s all of Balor’s siblings, some of who provide comic relief.

This book was full of twists and turns. The world building is unbelievable and C. K. Franziska has a unique way of describing everything. Can’t wait for the final book to see how this story plays out!

[Elin Storm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will not put ang spoilers here but omg! This was everything and more, the first book was good but this was so so good! The wrighting is really good, the world/worlds. I cannonly say that i recomend this vettu mutch and i will put on a new review ones the book is avalible to all 🥳🥳 intill the , just go get book 1 and read it 😎

[Kimberly Cowley · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW 🤯 What did I just consume?

Shadowfall has EVERYTHING!!!!! Action packed, twists and turns, all the truths being told, tailored made dresses from the most interesting of textiles.

I finished this in one day simply because I could not put this book down. I’m now sitting here trying to process everything and needing book 3 ASAP.

[Raven Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

it was fantastic read to the second book in the series... there where a few things I didn't predict and it is a lot of information to take in but a very unique and well plotted and thorought out fantasy world

[Unsavory Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was what I needed.

It’s amazing it’s fabulous. The ending was a surprise.

This book is one that held me at the edge of my seat. The dreamworld is a delightfully complex and beautiful story. I loved this book.

[Carlene Trujillo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4 ⭐️

Thank you C.K. Franziska for allowing me to be on your arc team!
Shadowfall is book 2 in the veil of fire series picking up right where dreamcursed ended. The twists, the little bit of spice, and the ending 🤯 I did enjoy the multi pov of different characters to learn more about them. Also Milow 😭😭 can’t wait for book 3!

[Andrea Torres · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book did not disappoint. So much action and kept me wanting more and more!!! Slow burn was worth it!!! I need to know what happens next! Definitely one of my favorite reads for 2025! Thank you for this opportunity and can’t wait for more 🖤