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Between the Veil

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One ancient prophecy. Two wicked kingdoms. Three lives woven together by fate.

Night after night, Auden is tormented by creatures that haunt her nightmares and leave physical scars in the waking world. Day after day, she trains with determination, driven to avenge the loss of her parents to these malevolent beings.

When the kingdom is besieged by an ancient evil, Auden loses the only solace she has ever known. Grief ignites an unknown power within her, a force that teeters between good and evil. In this moment of anguish, truths long concealed are laid bare–the immortal rulers have sinister intentions to exploit Auden's abilities and expand their realm.

Caught in the maelstrom of the immortals' schemes and the emergence of her own uncontrollable powers, Auden must confront the realization that she may be the greatest threat of all.

Will she accept the destiny laid out for her, risking everything to fulfill a prophecy, or will she defy the spirits’ will and choose a life of freedom at the cost of unimaginable chaos? As darkness stirs and evil prevails, Auden decides the path that will shape the very fabric of fate.

365 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2025

7 people are currently reading
335 people want to read

About the author

Zoe Zeman

2 books16 followers

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Jennifer Miner (black_rosereads)🖤.
186 reviews81 followers
October 31, 2025
This was a well written romantasy! I was captivated as hell! From start to finish this story and the characters brought forth so many emotions! It had me gasping, talking out loud to these characters as if they could hear me. I was utterly invested! Immortals and humans. Creatures unlike any I have ever read about before. I actually really liked the love triangle happening as well. Only to be left uncertain where my heart lies by the end! I could keep going on and on about how personal these emotions hit, but I won’t. You will just HAVE to read this! And I can’t wait for book 2!
Profile Image for Lou (fairytales.and.fantasy).
47 reviews2 followers
July 24, 2025
Between The Veil was a hauntingly atmospheric and beautifully written slowburn romantasy which piqued my interest from the first chapter. The world building was gorgeous - there was some really lovely writing which created such vivid imagery in my mind - from cold castles and dungeons to creepy forests filled with unnerving creatures, the atmosphere was on point throughout (think Shepherd King duology atmosphere/vibes). I really liked the way the author described the visuals - a lot of it was incredibly pretty and I’m kicking myself for not highlighting some of my favourite descriptions so that i could post them in this review!

I found the FMC easy to read about and i admired her perseverance in the face of adversity, i felt like one of the main focuses of the story was her finding strength in herself that she never knew she had. I enjoyed getting to see her grow as a person and I’m excited to see where her journey is headed in the rest of this series.

Now onto the MMCs (there are 2 of them, a dark, mysterious and brooding type and a sunny, kind, golden retriever type (i actually surprised myself by slightly preferring the golden retriever the most out of the pair which was unexpected as usually i love the mean or broody ones best!).

This is a romantasy with a love triangle and as with any good love triangle, i flip flopped between loving one and hating the other and then i hated that one and then loved the other (etc etc) and by the end of the book i ended up loving them both but i was getting emotional whiplash with the directions my feelings were getting pulled throughout 😅 - I’m very interested to see where our FMCs heart will end up at the end of this series as at current i could see her loving both/either of them 👀

Overall this was an excellent debut which kept me interested throughout, featuring beautifully done world building and interesting heroes and villains. There was also a one horse scene and i absolutely love the one horse trope!

Would i read this again? Yes, i imagine i would do a re-read before the next book comes out.
Profile Image for Ashleigh (edwardanddamon).
306 reviews
August 25, 2025
*I received an e-arc from the author for review. Thank you for the opportunity! All thoughts are my own*

Solid fantasy debut for Zoe Zeman! I was hooked from the beginning of this spellbinding story, which compelled me to keep turning the page and wanting to know more. The world and characters are vividly imagined, and there are lot of twists and turns along the way. If you like immortals, the chosen one, ancient prophesies, court intrigue, battle scenes, love triangles, forced proximity, and a good slow burn, I think you will enjoy this one!

Every night, Auden is tormented by creatures in her nightmares that leave physical scars on her when she wakes. She spends her days training hard to someday avenge her parents who were killed by these horrible creatures.

When her kingdom is besieged by an ancient evil, Auden loses the only solace she has ever known. Grief ignites an unknown power within her, that is a fine balance between good and evil. In this moment of anguish, truths come to light that have been kept hidden. The immortal rulers of the kingdom plan to use Auden and her powers to expand their realm and influence.

Auden finds herself trapped between the immortals plans for her and her own uncontrollable powers. She must come to terms with the fact that she herself may be the greatest threat of them all.

Will Auden accept the path laid out before her, risking all to fulfil an ancient prophecy? Or will Auden defy the will of the spirits and choose a life of freedom which could cause complete chaos? As darkness stirs and evil triumphs, Auden chooses the path that could shape the very fabric of fate.

I really enjoyed the main character, Auden and I felt as though I could feel all the feelings she had. She is a character that has gone through unimaginable grief and loss, all while dealing with anxiety and depression. I really appreciated how the author touched on those subjects in the story and made her and other characters so relatable. As someone that has anxiety, I always appreciate positive representation in books. Auden is so much braver than she gives herself credit for, and she grows so much throughout the story. She also has a good sense of humor which brought some lighthearted feeling to the story. I also enjoyed reading from the POVs of the two MMC, Everett and Azrael. I love the banter between them all! There’s a love triangle and I feel as though it could go either way at this point, and I’m really interested to see what happens in the next book. I know who my favorite is, I tend to go for the morally grey bad boys. 😉

I definitely recommend and I look forward to book two!
Profile Image for Kayte.
229 reviews
September 23, 2025
Giving this a 2.5⭐️. It was very hard for me to get into. There was little to no world building. It was very YA in the romance department for the 22 year old, with only heavy kissing a couple times in the book. And there was just very little explained, until the very end of the book. I get a slow burn, and slow development and leading up to more books in the series. I just wanted more and it was very hard for me to stay interested.
Profile Image for Aleshka.
17 reviews16 followers
October 18, 2025
Zoe writes absolutely gorgeous prose, and her character work is so full of depth and emotion. If you love romantasy with amazing worldbuilding and a high action plot, you’ll love this one!
Profile Image for Erin Finlen.
151 reviews
October 2, 2025
I loved this book. It is very rare in most genres to find a likeable female main character and I adored Auden all the way through. Also, obviously Team Az, no question.
Profile Image for Hannah.
737 reviews75 followers
October 14, 2025
3 Stars.

The vibes:
- love triangle
- Blood sucking immortals
- Book 1 in trilogy
- Fantasy
- Closed door

“Grief is a beautiful thing. It’s what separates us from those monsters. Without it, we would never be able to feel hope. Without our brokenness, we would never understand what it means to feel complete.”

My thoughts:
I really liked the set up and the bones of this book. The vibes were definitely there. While reading, I found myself asking a lot of questions about the characters and the situations. I mostly feel like this was purposeful- that we’re given information later on in the story and that it’s being held back purposely for the sake of intrigue, which I totally understand. With that said, there were some moments that could have benefited from a bit more world building or character background.

While I was so excited for the introduction to a love triangle, sometimes Everette and Azrael felt like the same personality. The overly flirty type who never quite turns it off. But then mid way, I felt like Everette’s entire personality shifted- so I’m not sure what to think of him in general. I’m not sure if this was intentional or not.

There were some moments that felt forced or maybe could have flowed better. The bonding conversations between characters often times occurred off page or was breezed over, and I really wish I could have seen these conversations between Audin and the two main male characters on page.

Overall- the vibes of this book were fun! I was so intrigued and immediately invested. I feel like the author is likely still finding her writing style, as this is her debut novel. But I thought it was a good start for the series, and I’m curious where the plot is heading next.

Note- closed door
Profile Image for Cassie Cassioppi.
4 reviews
August 31, 2025
It usually takes me a while to get into some books, but this one? Right out of the gate it had me in a chokehold. Blitzed through it in two days 😮‍💨

For the story: I’m a sucker for grim and gory scenes and loved how descriptive those scenes were. I also appreciated the action, mental health aspects, and a STRONG plot that kept me guessing. Just when I thought I knew what would happen, I was doing double takes with my jaw dropped. Also really liked how the worldbuilding was scattered throughout— not all at once in boring chunks of paragraphs. I found the main characters relatable, and despite the FMC being younger, I didn’t find her annoying or dumb at all. Her personality was sound, and actually, all their personalities and motives were consistent and believable.

Writing: The writing is pretty! There’s just enough prose to be descriptive in the best way, but not too much to where you question what was being said between flowery lines. It was easy to follow, and there really wasn’t anything in it that made me go “?????”.

The only thing is that this first book feels more like an actual fantasy with a romance subplot versus just a romantasy, but that’s up to debate since there’s more to come. Either way, I’m gonna need book two by tomorrow. K? thanks! 🤪

And finally…. TEAM AZ ALL THE WAY. That’s my man now 😤🤭🤠
Profile Image for Iria Cardoso.
Author 20 books33 followers
August 21, 2025
Pretty good start for this new Fantasy author!

Auden is a special young woman, that lost her family and was brought into the immortal royal family that rule her kingdom. Alongside her, there's Everett that's more than meets the eye. Joining them there's Azrael, both interesting stories, similar vibes, but different ways of interacting with the FMC.

This is a world ruled by immortals with powers, some cruel, others that can become friends as we follows Auden's path into her life and what she finds out about her training and her supposed abilities.

I really enjoyed the simple way the author describes this world and the characters, the way the romance and slowburn builds without actually coming to a close, there was such vivid scenes and sceneries.

It is very easy to get into the world, to fall into it and just get to know the characters, their interactions and the different moments that transform into a twist, alongside why certain things are important. Besides, it is easy to pinpoint when Everett is hiding something, or who is the villain and why the sawv are the enemies - which, I have to say, mixing the lore of the vampire with something more that I've only seen in Sherrilyn Kenyon's series, "The Dark-Hunters". And I find it very cool!
Profile Image for A - slambooks.
272 reviews4 followers
November 22, 2025
You know when you find your new favorite coffee or drink but it's one that no one else knows about and you just sit at the coffee shop drinking your drink and just have this happiness? Your legs are swinging and you are just so content to have this little piece of peace and perfection? Hi hey, I just described my feelings about this book.

This was a ride one that I had no idea what was going to happen and where the story was going to take me. I just kind of went along for the ride and I loved it! This was definitely a low spice book and it was honestly refreshing. I loved how the emotions and the desire was not missing and it was so nice for an author to find that balance without there being a ton of spice!

The actual story line dealt with a lot of different topics and there were a couple different tropes. We had found family, I would say a dash of betrayal, the one horse made an appearance, and the training ring also popped up!

I am so excited for the rest of this story and to see where it goes! I was left wanting answers and wanting the next book in my hands. Right. now. But I will survive and be preordering book two the moment I can!
Profile Image for Jo Leonard.
157 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2025
4.5 ⭐️

I was lucky to get a copy of this book prior to the release date. So firstly, thank you Zoe!
Between the Veil hooked me from the first chapter. The writing is beautiful and it was so easy to get lost in the world with how enchantingly the author describes everything the characters see. Most of the time, I felt like I was looking through the characters’ eyes. From the beginning, my heart broke for the FMC, Auden, but she’s braver than she knows and she goes on quite the journey in this book. It was really easy to root for her as she discovered more about herself and faced some tough challenges. The author did an amazing job writing characters that experience mental health struggles that many people deal with day-to-day. Also I loved reading from the point of view of the two MMCs. This story has a wonderful love triangle and while I’m leaning one way on who I think Auden should choose, it could go anyway at this point in the series. Along with great characters, Beyond the Veil has an awesome plot. I will anxiously be waiting for the next books to come out!

If you love prophecies, the chosen one, love triangles, banter, terrifying monsters, beautiful visuals, easy-to-hate villains, and one tent/one horse then you should ABSOLUTELY read Between the Veil!!!
Profile Image for thriftlibreads.
107 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2025
“Grief is a beautiful thing. It’s what separates us from those…those monsters. Without it, we would never be able to feel hope. Without our brokenness, we would never understand what it means to feel compete.”

Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity. Between the Veil is a romantasy involving a love triangle between Auden(FMC), Everett(MMC) and Azrael(MMC). Auden and Everett grew up together and everyone expects they’ll eventually be a couple. However, the story takes a turn when their kingdom is attacked by monsters. This attack results in deaths, the grief experienced by Auden from this leads to her abilities being further exposed. From here our characters journey into another kingdom seeking to fulfill an ancient prophecy. Everett has secretly known about this plan from the start and Auden feels betrayed, leaning into Azrael for answers and support. The story overall is a slow burn, but it did well showcasing the love triangle. It was hard not to root for either of the MMCs. Auden is a badass all on her own and rescues him when it matters most. I loved how empowering her journey was when it came to discovering who she really is. The story had a good unexpected reveal and cliffhanger! Don’t forget to get a copy on September 9th!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Tiffany Lindsay.
166 reviews5 followers
July 28, 2025
Perfect book for a new author. Bound to captivate many.

This books is full of twists and turns. You never really know who is good and who is bad. There are lots of unique characters and plenty of world building! This book has soulless monsters (literally and not), people with powers, and so much more.

Going on this journey with Auden has been very interesting and I can’t wait for the rest of the story. The cliffhanger was very subtle. I didn’t even realize the book had ended. 😆

Here’s a couple quotes I liked!

“I am here. I am with you. I will never leave you.”

““I know what you’re thinking, and this is my choice, love. I choose you.” My heart filled with wary hope as he shifted me so that my back was against his chest and his arm draped heavily across my waist. “You don't have to carry it all alone,” he murmured, pulling me closer, and I believed him.”
Profile Image for Noluthando Mthethwa.
8 reviews1 follower
September 8, 2025
What a journey

I definitely will be recommending this book.

The book had a slow start but once you got into it, it sucks you right in.
The writing was beautiful and the plot had me hooked. Auden is a solid FMC and I actually enjoyed reading about her and I loved her fiery energy. I was rooting for her and Az.
Ev on the other hand I still don't know how to feel about him. I personally applaud Auden for putting up with that man.

My heart still cries for Azrael and I fear I won't be okay for a while. Can't wait for book two.

Side note: The overall atmosphere of the book reminded me a lot of Shadow and Bone.
Profile Image for mrnuina.
174 reviews9 followers
September 10, 2025
Wau, this has a lot of action!
I don’t know if i am team azrael, don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with him! I just, something about Everette just, i don’t know. I really like him and i really wanted Auden to be with him.
Yes he did lie and all that, but something about him just pulled me in.
Azrael is amazing too, truly loyal and loving and flirty and kinda hot. But Everette is the one for me.
Auden, well she doesn’t have it easy, does she! That poor girl. There were times when she really was annoying for me, but she is pretty cool fmc
This world is amazing! the creatures are a bit scary!
Well written, and easy to read! Would have read this faster but life
The ending, oh, how i did need more! But now i have to wait and hope that i will get to know what happens next!
1 review
September 9, 2025
Between the Veil is a beautifully written, slow-burn fantasy romance with all the emotional tension I love. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is so well done—angsty, raw, and not rushed. The world feels dark and magical, and the main character’s journey through grief and power had me hooked. It’s low spice, but the vibes? Immaculate. The opening chapter grabbed me instantly and had me wanting to dive into the world. The debut author already confirmed work on book 2, so we won't be left waiting for long. I can’t wait for book two!
Profile Image for Crystal .
284 reviews15 followers
August 5, 2025
I loved this book! It was written beautifully. The story itself was emotional and raw. The FMC is stronger than she knows, the grief was heavy and I could relate to it. It was a slow burn, low spice romantasy, enimies to lovers, love triangle with one bed, actually one tent, one horse. I can't wait for book 2. Also, that cover is stunning and I most definitely need a book trophy for
this one.
Profile Image for Quotes Between Pages.
8 reviews
September 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! The world-building and imagery are absolutely phenomenal—Zeman paints such a vivid, immersive setting that it’s easy to get lost in the story.

And then we have not one but two MMCs to choose from. Spoiled much? The tension is delicious, and I honestly can’t decide who I want her to end up with. Part of me is secretly rooting for her to keep both (a girl can hope, right?).

The story itself is well told, engaging, and has me hooked. I’m genuinely excited to see where this journey goes in book two.

Thank you!!
Profile Image for Bones99.
134 reviews
October 17, 2025
I really liked the story but the writing was a bit choppy. I almost gave up a few times but I'm glad I didn't. The world she builds is really good and you'll have to decide if you are team Everette or team Azreal. Personally I still don't fully trust Azreal but maybe that is my "if it is too good to be true..." philosophy. It ends abruptly so I assume there is going to be a follow up book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Holly Vargas.
1 review1 follower
October 11, 2025
I loved this book! The author does a great job of unraveling the storyline while still keeping you guessing what will happen next. I also loved that it’s advertised as slightly spicy and it delivers! Knowing that there are more to come in this series makes me so excited to see the romances and storylines play out.
80 reviews
August 23, 2025
ARC review, all thoughts are my own. I enjoyed this book, good storyline that left me wanting more! Likeable characters. It just took me some time to feel the chemistry between the couple(s) but I got there in the end
8 reviews1 follower
December 14, 2025
This book had me raging. Not in a bad way just that I was wrapped up in the story of this poor girl who can not catch a break. I want better for her. The love triangle has me waffling back and forth on who I want to be the one. I can't wait to read the next one.
1 review
January 24, 2026
Between the Veil is a story about a girl trying to find and understand her place and purpose in the world amidst loss, loneliness, and nightmares in both her dreams and her real life. Auden is a strong female main character who makes you fall in love with her tenacious spirit. She stands up for herself as she finds and learns to value her worth. The plot is driven by Auden’s journey as she discovers more about fate, prophecy, and her place in it all.

This book is beautifully written and creative, seamlessly blending fantastical and romantic elements to make it a fun read for lovers of romance and fantasy. The vivid descriptions and intricate details painted by the author allow the reader to feel immersed in the worlds of the characters as they move through time and space. This is a strong debut novel that captured my attention and kept it throughout. It was a page-turner that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I can’t wait to see what Zoe Zeman writes next!
Profile Image for Garrett Baker.
1 review
September 8, 2025
I think this is great start for Zoe as a new author. She's got a wonderful world imagined up with some colorful characters and interesting magic going on.

I wanted to strangle some of the characters (but in the good way) because I was leaning into the book so hard. Particularly when the boat scene was taking place haha. Overall, I think the way the story unfolds is very satisfying.

If you like a story with a conflicted main character choosing between love interests that makes you want to try and talk to the main character yourself, this is a good book for you.
Profile Image for Ashley.
52 reviews
September 18, 2025
A great debut novel by Zoe Zeman, it set up an epic story in an interesting fantasy world. I enjoyed both MMCs, Everette gave me Dorian Havilliard vibes, while Azrael felt like a Caleb Altair. I enjoyed learning the world alongside Auden, and look forward to seeing where the story goes moving forward.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews

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