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Frostbound Court #2
Bound to the Shadow Queen
She left to protect him. He’ll tear apart the realm to bring her back.
The sweeping enemies-to-lovers romantasy series continues with Book Two of the Frostbound Court Trilogy.
The sweeping enemies-to-lovers romantasy series continues with Book Two of the Frostbound Court Trilogy.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2025
458 people are currently reading
244 people want to read
About the author
Robin D. Mahle
39 books1,214 followersRobin D. Mahle started out as a pen name I shared with my husband for The World Apart Series, but since then, I've absconded with it to delve into the wonderful world of fairy tale retellings and fantasy romances with my partner in crime, Elle Madison.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
November 17, 2025
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 1/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger: 7/10
Noteworthy: Book 2 of an incomplete series. Dual first-person POV. Dark themes. Available on KU.
So far this series could be a case study on self sabotage and counterproductive contempt. The series does not graduate from this until the last 30 pages of book 2. Never have I wanted to shake two characters more. I've heard stories of parents putting two quarreling children into one big shirt and making them walk around stuck together until they can understand each other better and get along. No couple has ever needed one more.
For as frustrating as these two can be at times, the story itself is cool (pun intended). I love a good monster mash but add in hidden powers, plus a chosen one and you get the fantasy trifecta. This book dives deeper into the morality of prejudices and the cycle of war and revenge which always hits for me. The overarching plot is very slow. We are 600 pages in and we still have the same problems we had at the start of book 1 with a few more sprinkled on top. Thank goodness by the last chapter there is light at the end of the tunnel. Book 3 looks to be a great climax to this trilogy.
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 1/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger: 7/10
Noteworthy: Book 2 of an incomplete series. Dual first-person POV. Dark themes. Available on KU.
So far this series could be a case study on self sabotage and counterproductive contempt. The series does not graduate from this until the last 30 pages of book 2. Never have I wanted to shake two characters more. I've heard stories of parents putting two quarreling children into one big shirt and making them walk around stuck together until they can understand each other better and get along. No couple has ever needed one more.
For as frustrating as these two can be at times, the story itself is cool (pun intended). I love a good monster mash but add in hidden powers, plus a chosen one and you get the fantasy trifecta. This book dives deeper into the morality of prejudices and the cycle of war and revenge which always hits for me. The overarching plot is very slow. We are 600 pages in and we still have the same problems we had at the start of book 1 with a few more sprinkled on top. Thank goodness by the last chapter there is light at the end of the tunnel. Book 3 looks to be a great climax to this trilogy.
October 23, 2025
You can find this review of Bound to the Shadow Queen on my blog, Heart's Content!
A big shout out and thank you to LunaBloomsPR and the authors for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
What has always been my favourite aspect of Mahle and Madison’s writing is their ability to create ever-lasting and heart-warming connections between characters who are, typically otherwise, unlikely to develop them. They throw enemies at one another and have them find, and create with each other, the closest ties of love and respect. Alternatively, they also pit people who should love one another—and sometimes do—together and portray what happens when that love is not done right and how it can twist into something dark and dangerous.
To me, this element of their stories, will always stand out. What makes the genre of fantasy so addictive is, sure, yes, the magic, the power, the plot twists; but it’s these little instances and connections that make it (ironically) real and everlasting in our minds. We are social beings, we yearn for connections, even while being wary and cautious at every turn, whether there are drifting clouds above us or dragons. Mahle and Madison do a great job showcasing that.
My guess is that perhaps this is a slightly shorter series than is usual to their style? I’m not sure, but I personally felt that while the platonic relationships had fantastic arcs, from start to their current forms; the romantic relationship began with a strong sense of tension, caution and underlying interest, before it became a littttle muddled in the middle and transformed a bit abruptly into its final form. I’m used to their emotional graphs being a lot more drawn out and well concluded that perhaps this came off, to me, that way in comparison.
I will say that perhaps that was my struggle with the world building too. Usually, in Mahle and Madison‘s books the threads are all evenly spread out and well connected. Everything has time, space and are perfectly positioned to evolve and establish themselves well. I did feel that I was a little lost on some of the deeper concepts of the world—like why or how certain things exist/look. But perhaps the next book will offer further clarity on that. However, I will say the book works despite that, for the most part, and you can still breeze through it. But again, it is more enjoyable as a reader if the world fits in our minds as clearly as the characters do.
The plot in this series, I believe, is slower to reveal itself to the reader. For the most part, the readers know what the larger, more evident storyline is the book is. But I suspect deeper, more complex threads will begin to reveal themselves soon and I’m truly curious to see where the authors take us!
The pace, as is with all the books written by Mahle and Madison, is swift, even and consumable in a single large bite. It is perfectly sized and is very comfortable to glide through. It can even be the perfect book to give yourself a break and get lost into, between two more intense, thicker books.
Humour has always been a very intrinsic part of everything Mahle and Madison work. It’s another one of the more addictive elements they weave into their stories. That being said, I do think this book deals with some heavier themes (that the authors were kind enough to mention in their list of trigger warnings) which thus leaves lesser room to include humour in. While I missed it, I understood and respected the reason for its more scattered presence.
Three and a half stars. Please please check trigger warnings as always! There are themes in this book that can be very difficult for some. This book and the first book in the series are available for free for all KU subscribers! Happy reading!
A big shout out and thank you to LunaBloomsPR and the authors for providing me with a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review!
What has always been my favourite aspect of Mahle and Madison’s writing is their ability to create ever-lasting and heart-warming connections between characters who are, typically otherwise, unlikely to develop them. They throw enemies at one another and have them find, and create with each other, the closest ties of love and respect. Alternatively, they also pit people who should love one another—and sometimes do—together and portray what happens when that love is not done right and how it can twist into something dark and dangerous.
To me, this element of their stories, will always stand out. What makes the genre of fantasy so addictive is, sure, yes, the magic, the power, the plot twists; but it’s these little instances and connections that make it (ironically) real and everlasting in our minds. We are social beings, we yearn for connections, even while being wary and cautious at every turn, whether there are drifting clouds above us or dragons. Mahle and Madison do a great job showcasing that.
My guess is that perhaps this is a slightly shorter series than is usual to their style? I’m not sure, but I personally felt that while the platonic relationships had fantastic arcs, from start to their current forms; the romantic relationship began with a strong sense of tension, caution and underlying interest, before it became a littttle muddled in the middle and transformed a bit abruptly into its final form. I’m used to their emotional graphs being a lot more drawn out and well concluded that perhaps this came off, to me, that way in comparison.
I will say that perhaps that was my struggle with the world building too. Usually, in Mahle and Madison‘s books the threads are all evenly spread out and well connected. Everything has time, space and are perfectly positioned to evolve and establish themselves well. I did feel that I was a little lost on some of the deeper concepts of the world—like why or how certain things exist/look. But perhaps the next book will offer further clarity on that. However, I will say the book works despite that, for the most part, and you can still breeze through it. But again, it is more enjoyable as a reader if the world fits in our minds as clearly as the characters do.
The plot in this series, I believe, is slower to reveal itself to the reader. For the most part, the readers know what the larger, more evident storyline is the book is. But I suspect deeper, more complex threads will begin to reveal themselves soon and I’m truly curious to see where the authors take us!
The pace, as is with all the books written by Mahle and Madison, is swift, even and consumable in a single large bite. It is perfectly sized and is very comfortable to glide through. It can even be the perfect book to give yourself a break and get lost into, between two more intense, thicker books.
Humour has always been a very intrinsic part of everything Mahle and Madison work. It’s another one of the more addictive elements they weave into their stories. That being said, I do think this book deals with some heavier themes (that the authors were kind enough to mention in their list of trigger warnings) which thus leaves lesser room to include humour in. While I missed it, I understood and respected the reason for its more scattered presence.
Three and a half stars. Please please check trigger warnings as always! There are themes in this book that can be very difficult for some. This book and the first book in the series are available for free for all KU subscribers! Happy reading!
September 25, 2025
The ending of this book has me reeling and I need the next book in this series like asap because I cannot get off the edge of my seat until I find out what happens next!! This book picked up right where the last left off with Draven and Everly separated after she was kidnapped back to her own family in the unseelie court! Their dual POV showed them each struggling with being apart and also the other challenged they faced in each of their own courts. I honestly could not believe the reveal at the end of the last book at first but seeing Everly in this unseelie world interacting with her family and those who harmed her in the past helped me understand some of her cautiousness in the previous book. I also loved the descriptions of her wings and flying!
In order to reunite and also help unlock Everlys powers to hopefully defend against the forces working to take down both the seelie and unseelie courts, they must look more into her past and the dragon history of her kind. I enjoyed the continued exploration of the bond of marriage between them and their tension waiting to snap between them. I also loved the returning side characters and found family Everly was building along with her real sister in the winter kingdom. There was twists and battles at every turn and I couldn’t put this book down once I started! Overall my rating is 4.7/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted ARC of this book, all opinions given are my own!
In order to reunite and also help unlock Everlys powers to hopefully defend against the forces working to take down both the seelie and unseelie courts, they must look more into her past and the dragon history of her kind. I enjoyed the continued exploration of the bond of marriage between them and their tension waiting to snap between them. I also loved the returning side characters and found family Everly was building along with her real sister in the winter kingdom. There was twists and battles at every turn and I couldn’t put this book down once I started! Overall my rating is 4.7/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted ARC of this book, all opinions given are my own!
September 25, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via the authors)
This one hit the ground running where book two left off. The icy winter magic was described so well and I could just picture it whenever Draven was doing Draven things. Some moments were more serious while other parts had me giggling like:
I wasn’t even sure Draven knew how to open a door by its handle since he always just blasted them open with mana, but I was positive he didn’t know how to knock.
Me while reading: The enemies are enemying again... but wait, ~something is happening~
This is probably the truest enemies to lovers series I've ever read. The slow burn was sooooo good.
The end though?? 👀 I guess I'm supposed to just exist knowing [redacted for spoilers] is ready to kick ass and take names??? Can't wait for the next one!
Favorite quotes:
“I don’t give a single forsaken damn about the risk to Winter,” he snapped. “There is a risk to you.”
“If I had known, I never would have let them take you,” he said, gently dragging his fingers down my skin to the pulse point on my neck. “And I sure as all forsaken hells never would have let them hurt you.”
“But do not take your freedom just to walk to your death, Morta Mea, because I would find a way to follow you into that grave just to drag you back again.”
This one hit the ground running where book two left off. The icy winter magic was described so well and I could just picture it whenever Draven was doing Draven things. Some moments were more serious while other parts had me giggling like:
I wasn’t even sure Draven knew how to open a door by its handle since he always just blasted them open with mana, but I was positive he didn’t know how to knock.
Me while reading: The enemies are enemying again... but wait, ~something is happening~
This is probably the truest enemies to lovers series I've ever read. The slow burn was sooooo good.
The end though?? 👀 I guess I'm supposed to just exist knowing [redacted for spoilers] is ready to kick ass and take names??? Can't wait for the next one!
Favorite quotes:
“I don’t give a single forsaken damn about the risk to Winter,” he snapped. “There is a risk to you.”
“If I had known, I never would have let them take you,” he said, gently dragging his fingers down my skin to the pulse point on my neck. “And I sure as all forsaken hells never would have let them hurt you.”
“But do not take your freedom just to walk to your death, Morta Mea, because I would find a way to follow you into that grave just to drag you back again.”
November 10, 2025
It felt like a whole lot of nothing happened in this book.. and yet, I loved it? I don’t know why. The story is so whimsical, Draven is sooo swoon and the tension between him and everly is amazing. I wish there was more of a plot but man, I did enjoy. Will definitely read the next when it comes out. 3.5 stars.
“She was everything I accused her of being, a liar and traitor, the ruination of the Court I had sworn my life to.
But she was mine. A curse worse than the monsters that plagued my kingdom, more destructive and entirely impossible to escape. My wife. My death.”
“She was everything I accused her of being, a liar and traitor, the ruination of the Court I had sworn my life to.
But she was mine. A curse worse than the monsters that plagued my kingdom, more destructive and entirely impossible to escape. My wife. My death.”
September 24, 2025
Bound to the Shadow Queen is a fade-to-gray enemies to lovers romantasy and book two in the Frostbound Court trilogy—a series filled with addictive storytelling, forced marriage and blood vows, fae court political intrigue and the kind of slow burning tension that unravels you.
I was immediately drawn into this layered world of morally gray fae, dangerous secrets, fate and icy winter magic. Some parts gave me chills, some parts had me kicking my feet and laughing out loud, and some parts left me absolutely swooning. I love that we got a deeper sense of the characters in this next installment, especially our sarcastic heroine and broody ice king who would tear down kingdoms for her. I also love that we got to see more of my favorite iconic little white bat! If you are looking for your next enemies to lovers fae romantasy with the perfect amount of slow burning tension and chemistry, this is it!
Thank you Robin D. Mahle & Elle Madison for a copy of this ARC. I loved it so much and can’t wait to see how the Frostbound Court trilogy concludes!
I was immediately drawn into this layered world of morally gray fae, dangerous secrets, fate and icy winter magic. Some parts gave me chills, some parts had me kicking my feet and laughing out loud, and some parts left me absolutely swooning. I love that we got a deeper sense of the characters in this next installment, especially our sarcastic heroine and broody ice king who would tear down kingdoms for her. I also love that we got to see more of my favorite iconic little white bat! If you are looking for your next enemies to lovers fae romantasy with the perfect amount of slow burning tension and chemistry, this is it!
Thank you Robin D. Mahle & Elle Madison for a copy of this ARC. I loved it so much and can’t wait to see how the Frostbound Court trilogy concludes!
October 1, 2025
This was fantastic and I didn't even remember that I had trouble getting into book 1 because this immediately submerged me into the world and refused to let me up for air. There is just so much growth and learning throughout for both of the characters, and then the queens of the cliffhanger once again do what they do best and ripped my heart from my chest immediately before the end of the book. I need the next ASAP.
September 26, 2025
Epic
Ohhh the cliff fall hurt. I love Everly and Draven a match to be sure!!! Their banter is what dreams are made of. This story and all its characters will keep you on your toes. Truely amazing world that flows perfectly... I love it cant wait for book 3.
Ohhh the cliff fall hurt. I love Everly and Draven a match to be sure!!! Their banter is what dreams are made of. This story and all its characters will keep you on your toes. Truely amazing world that flows perfectly... I love it cant wait for book 3.
September 27, 2025
Nooooo!! That ending was so rude. I need the next book immediately. I LOVE this series. Devoured this in a day. Great character development, exciting plot, amazing group of supporting characters. ♾️ 🌟
December 22, 2025
Amazing book and SO well written. I certainly enjoyed this one more than the first as it doesn't suffer from the same weirdness of the Dual POV (in this book it actually adds to the story). Can't wait for the final book!!!
October 11, 2025
I loved this one more than the first book. Need book 3 now please.
October 21, 2025
Loved seeing Everly coming into her own strength and form so much and getting more chapters from Draven’s POV!
Also, I’m already so excited for spin offs with the side characters💕
Also, I’m already so excited for spin offs with the side characters💕
December 22, 2025
4 stars!
*This review has spoilers for book one but not for book two* I was given the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Oh my god! That last line was epic! I live for hopeful exciting cliffhangers!
This book was a beautiful ride. It picks up right where book one left off and revealed many important aspects of the unseelie which were needed in this worldbuilding. Both Everly and Draven get alot of character development. Draven fully slots into a morally grey MMC but a lot of his actions are more understandable as we get to read and experience his viewpoint/past and he works a lot on fixing his mistakes in this book, which is greatly appreciated. Everly gets more of her past and her unseelie side revealed which also let you know where she is coming from and seeing her take back control of herself and her future in this book was very empowering.
The plot of this book is mostly centered around more background lore, the continuation of the wards and frostbeast issues, and the angst and communication issues between our two MCs. It’s just the right amount of frustrating that you would expect from a true enemies to lovers and the steamy moments in this book were VERY SATISFYING. The plot regarding the unseelie was useful information but I still feel a bit confused as to the overall dynamic and how important all this information will be for the final book in the series but I am hoping it will all tie together in the end.
As always, Mahle and Maddison know how to balance the light and the darkness in their books. The side characters add that depth and that happiness. Seeing Everly with her sister and Draven with Nevara were beautiful depictions of sibling love and support. And Soren is still good comic relief. Nevara continues to be my favorite character with Everly as a close second. My least favorite character is still Draven, but I love his protectiveness of Everly and his people. I was missing a bit of the creatures as standouts like they were in book one, but they were still present and adorable.
Overall, this was the perfect continuation of this series and leaves me wanting the next book in the best way. The enemies to lovers are slowly working it out and Mahle and Maddison left some clues to how I think the next book will go, while still having me wondering how it will all play out. It did drag a little this book with the back and forth between our MCs but the action is still present and that ending is a perfect cliffhanger (much better than book one’s cliffhanger in my opinion 🤣). I would definitely recommend this book/series!
*This review has spoilers for book one but not for book two* I was given the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Oh my god! That last line was epic! I live for hopeful exciting cliffhangers!
This book was a beautiful ride. It picks up right where book one left off and revealed many important aspects of the unseelie which were needed in this worldbuilding. Both Everly and Draven get alot of character development. Draven fully slots into a morally grey MMC but a lot of his actions are more understandable as we get to read and experience his viewpoint/past and he works a lot on fixing his mistakes in this book, which is greatly appreciated. Everly gets more of her past and her unseelie side revealed which also let you know where she is coming from and seeing her take back control of herself and her future in this book was very empowering.
The plot of this book is mostly centered around more background lore, the continuation of the wards and frostbeast issues, and the angst and communication issues between our two MCs. It’s just the right amount of frustrating that you would expect from a true enemies to lovers and the steamy moments in this book were VERY SATISFYING. The plot regarding the unseelie was useful information but I still feel a bit confused as to the overall dynamic and how important all this information will be for the final book in the series but I am hoping it will all tie together in the end.
As always, Mahle and Maddison know how to balance the light and the darkness in their books. The side characters add that depth and that happiness. Seeing Everly with her sister and Draven with Nevara were beautiful depictions of sibling love and support. And Soren is still good comic relief. Nevara continues to be my favorite character with Everly as a close second. My least favorite character is still Draven, but I love his protectiveness of Everly and his people. I was missing a bit of the creatures as standouts like they were in book one, but they were still present and adorable.
Overall, this was the perfect continuation of this series and leaves me wanting the next book in the best way. The enemies to lovers are slowly working it out and Mahle and Maddison left some clues to how I think the next book will go, while still having me wondering how it will all play out. It did drag a little this book with the back and forth between our MCs but the action is still present and that ending is a perfect cliffhanger (much better than book one’s cliffhanger in my opinion 🤣). I would definitely recommend this book/series!
September 29, 2025
I enjoy this series, but here’s my big problem with it - why is it taking so long to move any part of the story along? It draaaaaaaaaags on and on. I’m not even talking a slow burn romance, I’m talking about trying to move the plot along, answer any questions for the reader, and not make the ending overly complicated. I was following along right up until I’m trying to understand her family tree. Uh, what? Did her mom lie (again)?
We get a little more out of Draven but he’s still pretty bland. There’s a million more times chemistry between Soren and the Visionary than there is between Draven and Everly. Can we please admit that the ‘miscommunication’ trope is one of the worst ones? Did we learn nothing from the Fourth Wing series? No one wants to read multiple books where the main characters argue for the entire series.
Also, does Draven even really KNOW Everly? He’s possessive of her; but even towards the end of this book he’s barely understanding where she comes from emotionally and with her trauma. We haven’t even gotten into his trauma, which has been hinted at but never delved into when it comes to the UnSeelie. We are no closer to understanding who held the blade on the battlefield that kicked off the war. We know it wasn’t him, but something happened and I guess it’s all going to be in the next book.
Book 3 has some heavy lifting ahead to start wrapping up the plot, solving some big mysteries, and giving Draven his big romantic storyline. Otherwise, I’m going to be betting on the other UnSeelie Thane - one she had chemistry with - to be end game.
We get a little more out of Draven but he’s still pretty bland. There’s a million more times chemistry between Soren and the Visionary than there is between Draven and Everly. Can we please admit that the ‘miscommunication’ trope is one of the worst ones? Did we learn nothing from the Fourth Wing series? No one wants to read multiple books where the main characters argue for the entire series.
Also, does Draven even really KNOW Everly? He’s possessive of her; but even towards the end of this book he’s barely understanding where she comes from emotionally and with her trauma. We haven’t even gotten into his trauma, which has been hinted at but never delved into when it comes to the UnSeelie. We are no closer to understanding who held the blade on the battlefield that kicked off the war. We know it wasn’t him, but something happened and I guess it’s all going to be in the next book.
Book 3 has some heavy lifting ahead to start wrapping up the plot, solving some big mysteries, and giving Draven his big romantic storyline. Otherwise, I’m going to be betting on the other UnSeelie Thane - one she had chemistry with - to be end game.
October 14, 2025
3 stars.
The vibes:
- Ice powers
- Very frosty Winter Court
- Book 2 in trilogy
- open door
My thoughts:
I can’t say much since this is book 2 in a trilogy, so I’ll keep it vague to avoid spoilers. This had a bit of a slow start, and I oftentimes felt like I was getting to know Everly all over again.
I did enjoy the moments we got between Draven and Everly, but still want to see more emotional connection there. The attraction/bond they have isn’t enough for me at this point, so I’m hoping we can get more in the next book. Another thing I enjoyed in this book was seeing more of Everly’s sister.
Overall, this book felt a little bit like what I expect a middle book in a trilogy to feel like. Not a whole lot happens, and it’s a bit of a filler. But Everly is finally accepting who she is, and I’m excited for what’s next.
Note- open door (brief; 1 scene)
The vibes:
- Ice powers
- Very frosty Winter Court
- Book 2 in trilogy
- open door
My thoughts:
I can’t say much since this is book 2 in a trilogy, so I’ll keep it vague to avoid spoilers. This had a bit of a slow start, and I oftentimes felt like I was getting to know Everly all over again.
I did enjoy the moments we got between Draven and Everly, but still want to see more emotional connection there. The attraction/bond they have isn’t enough for me at this point, so I’m hoping we can get more in the next book. Another thing I enjoyed in this book was seeing more of Everly’s sister.
Overall, this book felt a little bit like what I expect a middle book in a trilogy to feel like. Not a whole lot happens, and it’s a bit of a filler. But Everly is finally accepting who she is, and I’m excited for what’s next.
Note- open door (brief; 1 scene)
September 29, 2025
Same issues that I had with the first book in that it felt like it was written by two different people. It was missing some cohesion. Transitions were clunky.
Biggest issue was that Draven and Everly haven't spent nearly enough time together. Yes it's a slow burn, but it was missing the tension that you need with slow burns. Everly spends most of her time away from him or with her sister. When they were together, the tension felt forced, unnatural, and too quick.
The story is engaging enough that I'm looking forward to book 3.
Biggest issue was that Draven and Everly haven't spent nearly enough time together. Yes it's a slow burn, but it was missing the tension that you need with slow burns. Everly spends most of her time away from him or with her sister. When they were together, the tension felt forced, unnatural, and too quick.
The story is engaging enough that I'm looking forward to book 3.
October 4, 2025
These are must read authors for me and I am enjoying the overall plot. However, this is the slowest story they’ve written. I like a slow burn but this and book 1 both dragged for me. I just want more time with Draven and Everly together on the page. The flip to them acknowledging feelings felt like it came abruptly because they just didn’t spend time together. These cliffhangers keep you coming back for more though.
Content Notes: Vague open door romance
Content Notes: Vague open door romance
October 1, 2025
filler
This book did not move the story forward . It felt as if each word was extending a story that should have been wrap up in this book to a third . The characters did not develop they just had more of the same back and forth and all questions are still, unanswered and to end a cliff hanger when the whole book felt like that was disappointing
This book did not move the story forward . It felt as if each word was extending a story that should have been wrap up in this book to a third . The characters did not develop they just had more of the same back and forth and all questions are still, unanswered and to end a cliff hanger when the whole book felt like that was disappointing
October 4, 2025
If you thought Fated to the Frost King left you emotionally raw, just wait until you dive into Bound to the Shadow Queen.
This second instalment picks up right where the first book left off and immediately throws you back into the chaos, heartbreak, and intensity that this series does so well.
Everly and Draven are separated, both reeling from truths they didn’t ask for, and both trying to survive. The emotional stakes are high, the tension is relentless, and the fallout from the previous book is still echoing through every chapter.
This is a much darker, more intense story than the first and so I want to highlight the trigger warnings for torture and emotional trauma here. The emotional toll on Madison and Mahle’s characters is real, and it shows.
What really stood out to me here was the shift in focus. While the first book had a strong emphasis on world-building, this one leans into action and character development. Similarly to FTTFK, we get dual POV, journeying with Draven just as much as Everly. He’s not the stoic frost king we met at the start of the series, now we see a man wrestling with loyalty, guilt, and a bond he doesn’t fully understand.
Everly, meanwhile, is caught in an impossible position. We finally meet her family, and with that comes a whole new layer of conflict. She’s split between two sides of herself, forced to choose between loyalty and identity with either path risking turning her into a traitor. Watching her try to protect everyone, while barely holding herself together, is genuinely heartbreaking.
The tension between Everly and Draven is still burning, still ice cold, still everything! Their dynamic is so complicated and painful and addictive, one minute I wanted to scream at them both, and the next I was fully rooting for them again. The slow burn here is so slow... but it’s worth every bit of the wait.
Oh, and the ending? Let’s just say I’m still not okay.
Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle have a real gift for creating characters and stories that make you feel everything : the anger, the grief, the hope, the fear. Bound to the Shadow Queen is brutal, beautiful, and absolutely impossible to put down.
Thank you to the authors for the chance to read an advanced copy.
This second instalment picks up right where the first book left off and immediately throws you back into the chaos, heartbreak, and intensity that this series does so well.
Everly and Draven are separated, both reeling from truths they didn’t ask for, and both trying to survive. The emotional stakes are high, the tension is relentless, and the fallout from the previous book is still echoing through every chapter.
This is a much darker, more intense story than the first and so I want to highlight the trigger warnings for torture and emotional trauma here. The emotional toll on Madison and Mahle’s characters is real, and it shows.
What really stood out to me here was the shift in focus. While the first book had a strong emphasis on world-building, this one leans into action and character development. Similarly to FTTFK, we get dual POV, journeying with Draven just as much as Everly. He’s not the stoic frost king we met at the start of the series, now we see a man wrestling with loyalty, guilt, and a bond he doesn’t fully understand.
Everly, meanwhile, is caught in an impossible position. We finally meet her family, and with that comes a whole new layer of conflict. She’s split between two sides of herself, forced to choose between loyalty and identity with either path risking turning her into a traitor. Watching her try to protect everyone, while barely holding herself together, is genuinely heartbreaking.
The tension between Everly and Draven is still burning, still ice cold, still everything! Their dynamic is so complicated and painful and addictive, one minute I wanted to scream at them both, and the next I was fully rooting for them again. The slow burn here is so slow... but it’s worth every bit of the wait.
Oh, and the ending? Let’s just say I’m still not okay.
Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle have a real gift for creating characters and stories that make you feel everything : the anger, the grief, the hope, the fear. Bound to the Shadow Queen is brutal, beautiful, and absolutely impossible to put down.
Thank you to the authors for the chance to read an advanced copy.
October 7, 2025
Bound to the Shadow Queen is the second book in the Frostbound Court series. I would highly recommend reading the first book before diving into this second one. Bound to the Shadow Queen picks up right where the first book left off and we begin to see the other side of the world that Mahle and Madison have built in this series -- the Unseelie clans.
I am a long-time fan of Mahle and Madison. I love how they develop their characters especially, and this book is no exception. Bound to the Shadow Queen shows growth between and within Everly and Draven as they fight their way back to each other. Even when reunited and in the same room, the power of their bond and their entwined fates put them in dangerous positions:
"Because I already knew how this ended. Where we always ended--balancing on the edge of a knife, teetering somewhere between want and ruin."
This story is one of the darker that I've read by these authors. Everly and Draven encounter ghastly encounters with monsters at every turn while trying to navigate hatred and war between the Seelie and UnSeelie. It's a complex world the authors have built, and I was delighted with the introduction of dragon magic and lore. (I can't wait until that is fleshed out more in the third book!) Readers should be warned of some scenes of torture and death, however.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book for those who love a slow-burn, true-enemies-to-lovers, bonded mates romance that unfolds much like the building of the world around them. Even though it is dark, I see hope in Everly and Draven's story. I look forward to seeing how it ends.
I am a long-time fan of Mahle and Madison. I love how they develop their characters especially, and this book is no exception. Bound to the Shadow Queen shows growth between and within Everly and Draven as they fight their way back to each other. Even when reunited and in the same room, the power of their bond and their entwined fates put them in dangerous positions:
"Because I already knew how this ended. Where we always ended--balancing on the edge of a knife, teetering somewhere between want and ruin."
This story is one of the darker that I've read by these authors. Everly and Draven encounter ghastly encounters with monsters at every turn while trying to navigate hatred and war between the Seelie and UnSeelie. It's a complex world the authors have built, and I was delighted with the introduction of dragon magic and lore. (I can't wait until that is fleshed out more in the third book!) Readers should be warned of some scenes of torture and death, however.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book for those who love a slow-burn, true-enemies-to-lovers, bonded mates romance that unfolds much like the building of the world around them. Even though it is dark, I see hope in Everly and Draven's story. I look forward to seeing how it ends.
September 29, 2025
Desperate for Book 3!
This author duo knows how to write a slow burn! The angst, longing, frustration, disdain, and desire poured from Draven and Everly in equal measure. Her - the liar and traitor. Him – the icy monster. After the cliffhanger of Book 1 {Fated to the Frost King}, this book picks up right where the story left off. Feeling betrayed by Everly, but also angry that what he “claimed” as his was taken, Draven leaves destruction and death in his path to find her. And Everly is dealing with what she uncovers and learns at her Unseelie home. There was plenty of miscommunication between these two, but their relationship still presses on. The characters evolve throughout the book, and we learn more about their pasts. We see them start to accept their current wants (and situation thanks to the shards-blasted marriage bond), and begin to consider what the future may bring, whether it's together or apart. Everly grew so much in the book in my opinion. From the beginning (of the book) it is hard to discern which direction she would go, which side she will choose, the Seelie or Unseelie. Seeing her struggle throughout the story with that decision, being at war with herself over both sides' hatred of the other, and how she's caught in the middle, I did not envy her at all.
While we received answers to some burning questions from book 1, now we have so many new questions! I was on edge much of this book, waiting for what would come next. And now I am absolutely looking forward to how this story will unfold, desperate for Book 3 after that cliffhanger! But I know it certainly will be worth the wait!
4.75☆
This author duo knows how to write a slow burn! The angst, longing, frustration, disdain, and desire poured from Draven and Everly in equal measure. Her - the liar and traitor. Him – the icy monster. After the cliffhanger of Book 1 {Fated to the Frost King}, this book picks up right where the story left off. Feeling betrayed by Everly, but also angry that what he “claimed” as his was taken, Draven leaves destruction and death in his path to find her. And Everly is dealing with what she uncovers and learns at her Unseelie home. There was plenty of miscommunication between these two, but their relationship still presses on. The characters evolve throughout the book, and we learn more about their pasts. We see them start to accept their current wants (and situation thanks to the shards-blasted marriage bond), and begin to consider what the future may bring, whether it's together or apart. Everly grew so much in the book in my opinion. From the beginning (of the book) it is hard to discern which direction she would go, which side she will choose, the Seelie or Unseelie. Seeing her struggle throughout the story with that decision, being at war with herself over both sides' hatred of the other, and how she's caught in the middle, I did not envy her at all.
While we received answers to some burning questions from book 1, now we have so many new questions! I was on edge much of this book, waiting for what would come next. And now I am absolutely looking forward to how this story will unfold, desperate for Book 3 after that cliffhanger! But I know it certainly will be worth the wait!
4.75☆
October 29, 2025
**SPOILERS FOR FATED TO THE FROST KING**
Bound to the Shadow Queen is book 2 in the trilogy and picks up right where book 1 left off (thank god because FTTFK ended with a big ole cliffhanger). We see Draven with Noerwyn on their journey to get Everly back from the Unseelie. I enjoyed getting to see Everly interact with the Unseelie. It definitely gave some insight into her behaviors and answered some questions about her background.
The dual POV was great for this book because it allowed us to see both of their journeys and we get to watch Draven make some morally questionable choices, definitely cementing him as morally gray. As the books progresses, we get to see Draven wrestle with his choices- and see his jealousy, guilt and feelings for Everly.
The are characters have some serious potential, but I wish they got more page time! I hope we get to see more of them next book because I love Noerwyn, Nevara and Soren.
This book is definitely a slooooww burn, true enemies to lovers. There have been so many lies and secrets between Draven and Everly and then, finally, at the end, we get to see them come together. The spice level was spicier than Mahle and Madison’s previous books, but it was not graphic/gratuitous and was very well done.
This book ends on another cliffhanger (rude!) and I cannot wait for book 3!
Bound to the Shadow Queen is book 2 in the trilogy and picks up right where book 1 left off (thank god because FTTFK ended with a big ole cliffhanger). We see Draven with Noerwyn on their journey to get Everly back from the Unseelie. I enjoyed getting to see Everly interact with the Unseelie. It definitely gave some insight into her behaviors and answered some questions about her background.
The dual POV was great for this book because it allowed us to see both of their journeys and we get to watch Draven make some morally questionable choices, definitely cementing him as morally gray. As the books progresses, we get to see Draven wrestle with his choices- and see his jealousy, guilt and feelings for Everly.
The are characters have some serious potential, but I wish they got more page time! I hope we get to see more of them next book because I love Noerwyn, Nevara and Soren.
This book is definitely a slooooww burn, true enemies to lovers. There have been so many lies and secrets between Draven and Everly and then, finally, at the end, we get to see them come together. The spice level was spicier than Mahle and Madison’s previous books, but it was not graphic/gratuitous and was very well done.
This book ends on another cliffhanger (rude!) and I cannot wait for book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
Thank you for the ARC! This review does not have spoilers.
Book one left us on the steepest of cliffs, with so many questions.
Book two is here to leave us on an even bigger cliff, with different questions, but it was very much worth it. Some of the twists from book one are fleshed out in a way that was satisfying. There were new elements to what is going on in this world that I thought I had figured out early on and was delighted to find out I was either wrong or off on those- let's just say things are getting bigger.
Here we see the aftermath of the ending of book 1 and the characters trying to find ways to move forward. The way that betrayals and lies are addressed in this book, along with how the authors still kept true to each character, was some stellar storytelling. The found family vibes are going strong and animal companions are as sweet as ever.
There's even some steam in this one, which is a deviation from their standard fade to black. It was written beautifully and in a way that I think average spice readers would be satisfied but those who largely avoid spice altogether won't feel scandalized. Art, not smut.
Overall, if you enjoyed the first book you're going to devour this one.
Book one left us on the steepest of cliffs, with so many questions.
Book two is here to leave us on an even bigger cliff, with different questions, but it was very much worth it. Some of the twists from book one are fleshed out in a way that was satisfying. There were new elements to what is going on in this world that I thought I had figured out early on and was delighted to find out I was either wrong or off on those- let's just say things are getting bigger.
Here we see the aftermath of the ending of book 1 and the characters trying to find ways to move forward. The way that betrayals and lies are addressed in this book, along with how the authors still kept true to each character, was some stellar storytelling. The found family vibes are going strong and animal companions are as sweet as ever.
There's even some steam in this one, which is a deviation from their standard fade to black. It was written beautifully and in a way that I think average spice readers would be satisfied but those who largely avoid spice altogether won't feel scandalized. Art, not smut.
Overall, if you enjoyed the first book you're going to devour this one.
October 1, 2025
The drama, the tension, the slow-burn, it’s all back with this latest installment to the Frostbound Court Trilogy. Everly, ended book one being taken from her husband and her sister. Draven? Left seriously wounded by one of her people. The truth as to who and what Everly is, finally revealed in a jaw-dropping conclusion. Now, the story progresses forward with revelations, and hard decisions.
Everly has exchanged one cage for another with her return to her clan. Apparently, her uncle, the Thane has his own plans for her, and she’s not really going to have a choice in the matter. Surprise, surprise, right? But there is a surprise waiting to be revealed.
You can expect that Draven is not going to let the abduction of his wife go without a response, and boy what a response! He has no chill and we are here for it! The slow-burn romance intensifies in the most delicious way.
Prepare for a mild cliffhanger this time. Draven is locked in a vicious battle with something ancient, and Everly is on the cusp of unlocking who she truly is. But it’s the revelation itself that will have the hair on the back of your neck standing up, and see you eagerly bouncing in your chair for more. We can’t wait to find out what happens next.
Everly has exchanged one cage for another with her return to her clan. Apparently, her uncle, the Thane has his own plans for her, and she’s not really going to have a choice in the matter. Surprise, surprise, right? But there is a surprise waiting to be revealed.
You can expect that Draven is not going to let the abduction of his wife go without a response, and boy what a response! He has no chill and we are here for it! The slow-burn romance intensifies in the most delicious way.
Prepare for a mild cliffhanger this time. Draven is locked in a vicious battle with something ancient, and Everly is on the cusp of unlocking who she truly is. But it’s the revelation itself that will have the hair on the back of your neck standing up, and see you eagerly bouncing in your chair for more. We can’t wait to find out what happens next.
September 25, 2025
“If I had to do whatever I had to in order to find my shards-damned wife. She might have been a traitor, but she was my traitor. My death. Morta Mea. I would tear kingdoms apart to bring her back before I let the Unseelie filth keep what belonged to me.”
This line perfectly captures the heart of “Bound to the Shadow Queen” —book two in this dark, addictive trilogy. Where the first installment laid the groundwork for betrayal, power, and the slow-burn fire of enemies-to-lovers tension, this sequel drags us deeper into the shadows of both characters’ pasts. We see them stripped bare, their loyalty and rage tested in ways that blur the line between devotion and destruction.
It’s spicier, sharper, and darker than what we’ve seen from this author before—an intoxicating mix of high-stakes romance and ruthless fantasy. The chemistry is combustible, but what makes it so compelling is the depth of pain and history they carry. Every revelation feels like a wound and a vow all at once.
By the final page, you’re left breathless, aching for the storm that book three promises to unleash. If you love enemies-to-lovers with teeth, this series is one you’ll want to devour.
This line perfectly captures the heart of “Bound to the Shadow Queen” —book two in this dark, addictive trilogy. Where the first installment laid the groundwork for betrayal, power, and the slow-burn fire of enemies-to-lovers tension, this sequel drags us deeper into the shadows of both characters’ pasts. We see them stripped bare, their loyalty and rage tested in ways that blur the line between devotion and destruction.
It’s spicier, sharper, and darker than what we’ve seen from this author before—an intoxicating mix of high-stakes romance and ruthless fantasy. The chemistry is combustible, but what makes it so compelling is the depth of pain and history they carry. Every revelation feels like a wound and a vow all at once.
By the final page, you’re left breathless, aching for the storm that book three promises to unleash. If you love enemies-to-lovers with teeth, this series is one you’ll want to devour.
December 1, 2025
I love this series. Literally cannot wait for book 3. This book and series just has everything you want: pining, angst, enemies to lovers, power dynamics, intrigue, mystery, a grumpy MMC who will stop at nothing to protect what is his. The perfect recipe.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the slow burn and all the tension between Everly and Draven. All the build up was worth it.
I also really liked how we got to understand the Shadow Clan and their dynamics and all the Skaldwings, very interesting.
This book is fast paced and action packed, and will give you a bit of whiplash. I devoured it whenever I got the chance to pick it up. Really bingeable.
Just Alaric, whew, that death was quite heartbreaking and wished it didn’t happen. I also wanted Everly to grieve a bit more or maybe be a little more angrier for longer regarding his death. It did take me a bit out of the story, but from the story as a whole I understand why that needed to happen. Even though I wanted to throw my Kindle across the room.
Phenomenal story though, I really love this world and the magic, the characters and just everything. Beautifully written and I can’t wait for the final book!
4 stars!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the slow burn and all the tension between Everly and Draven. All the build up was worth it.
I also really liked how we got to understand the Shadow Clan and their dynamics and all the Skaldwings, very interesting.
This book is fast paced and action packed, and will give you a bit of whiplash. I devoured it whenever I got the chance to pick it up. Really bingeable.
Just Alaric, whew, that death was quite heartbreaking and wished it didn’t happen. I also wanted Everly to grieve a bit more or maybe be a little more angrier for longer regarding his death. It did take me a bit out of the story, but from the story as a whole I understand why that needed to happen. Even though I wanted to throw my Kindle across the room.
Phenomenal story though, I really love this world and the magic, the characters and just everything. Beautifully written and I can’t wait for the final book!
4 stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
This book is a masterclass in slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romantasy.
From the very first page, I was hooked. Everly's journey is full of tension, true push-and-pull moments, and powerful growth as she learns to embrace every part of herself. What stood out most to me was the depth of the character building and not just for her, but for the side characters as well. We start to get more of a peak into their choices, their pasts, and the bonds that tie them together, weaving in a strong sense of found family that I can never resist.
The genuine laugh-out-loud moments gave balance to the angst. And then there’s the romance: the slow burn may or may not finally combust! 🔥 The tension between the leads was perfectly drawn out, making the payoff absolutely worth it.
And that ending… THAT ENDING. We LOVE a BAD*SS FMC MOMENT!!
Mahle & Madison must put crack in their books (can not confirm or deny), because once again, I couldn’t put this down. If you love romantasy with depth, tension, and characters you can’t stop thinking about, this series is a must.
From the very first page, I was hooked. Everly's journey is full of tension, true push-and-pull moments, and powerful growth as she learns to embrace every part of herself. What stood out most to me was the depth of the character building and not just for her, but for the side characters as well. We start to get more of a peak into their choices, their pasts, and the bonds that tie them together, weaving in a strong sense of found family that I can never resist.
The genuine laugh-out-loud moments gave balance to the angst. And then there’s the romance: the slow burn may or may not finally combust! 🔥 The tension between the leads was perfectly drawn out, making the payoff absolutely worth it.
And that ending… THAT ENDING. We LOVE a BAD*SS FMC MOMENT!!
Mahle & Madison must put crack in their books (can not confirm or deny), because once again, I couldn’t put this down. If you love romantasy with depth, tension, and characters you can’t stop thinking about, this series is a must.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2025
Holy cliffhanger, Batman!
Bound to the Shadow Queen is everything I’ve come to expect from Mahle and Madison! Fast paced, lots of action, amazing side characters, and swoon-worthy MCs, I absolutely adored this book!!
I could definitely tell the story was building up to something big throughout, very clearly the middle of the overarching story as we generally know the characters, they have some growing pains to work through, and something seems to be brewing in the atmosphere. I have a feeling in the final book, there will be some betrayal from unexpected places and an absolutely epic conclusion
I would love to see more of the side characters in the next book, if not in their own spin-offs. I desperately want more of Soren, I want Navarra to get a happily ever after, and Wynnie to have a grand adventure. I also hope we get more of Batty and even Mirelda.
I absolutely tore through this book and am so pumped to get to the final book - I thought I knew where the cliffhanger was going and it stopped just short of that so I’m waiting with bated breath!
Bound to the Shadow Queen is everything I’ve come to expect from Mahle and Madison! Fast paced, lots of action, amazing side characters, and swoon-worthy MCs, I absolutely adored this book!!
I could definitely tell the story was building up to something big throughout, very clearly the middle of the overarching story as we generally know the characters, they have some growing pains to work through, and something seems to be brewing in the atmosphere. I have a feeling in the final book, there will be some betrayal from unexpected places and an absolutely epic conclusion
I would love to see more of the side characters in the next book, if not in their own spin-offs. I desperately want more of Soren, I want Navarra to get a happily ever after, and Wynnie to have a grand adventure. I also hope we get more of Batty and even Mirelda.
I absolutely tore through this book and am so pumped to get to the final book - I thought I knew where the cliffhanger was going and it stopped just short of that so I’m waiting with bated breath!
October 8, 2025
If you’ve read my first review of this series, you know just how much I love and adore Elle & Robin and their stories/series. They never cease to amaze me with how they pull you into every single thing that they write and I fall in love with the characters every single time.
This series has everything I love. A true Enemies to lovers, fated mates, one bed, touch her and die, animal friends/companions, crazy plot twists and the best side characters, to just name a few. Add in the witty banter and one liners that Robin and Elle excel at and you have an amazing book series already and it’s not even done yet.
Book number two had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Of course I’m dying at the latest cliffhanger, definitely their specialty, and cannot wait to get my hands on the next one in the series asap.
If you haven’t read this series yet or anything else they have written. Run, don’t walk. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
* I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review. *
This series has everything I love. A true Enemies to lovers, fated mates, one bed, touch her and die, animal friends/companions, crazy plot twists and the best side characters, to just name a few. Add in the witty banter and one liners that Robin and Elle excel at and you have an amazing book series already and it’s not even done yet.
Book number two had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Of course I’m dying at the latest cliffhanger, definitely their specialty, and cannot wait to get my hands on the next one in the series asap.
If you haven’t read this series yet or anything else they have written. Run, don’t walk. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
* I received an ARC from the authors in exchange for an honest review. *
October 9, 2025
Oh my - I can. Not. Wait for the next book. The ending left me wanting more and wanting it now! The Winter Court seems to be literally falling apart: the frostbeasts are getting stronger and increasing in numbers. Draven is torn between finding Everly and protecting his kingdom and feeling like he's not doing a good job on either front. This story takes you on a whirlwind of emotions, the tension rises and falls, ratcheting up higher and higher to the end. If I hadn't been reading this on my Kindle, I'd have thrown the book across the room when I hit that ending! I love everything these authors write, and this series is no exception. If you like high fantasy, with an unusual setting, a terrific, fast-paced, tension-filled story and unique main characters with a good supporting cast; look no further than this book and series. If you haven't already, start with 'Fated to the Frost King', find a place where no one will bother you, and prepare to immerse yourself in these wonderful and engrossing stories!
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