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Crown of Shadows
Mayu inherits a throne she never wanted, in a kingdom where loyalty is bought and sold and even love is a weapon. She must rely on Aaron, the king's enforcer, whose heart yearns for her, and Enzo, her protector, though he keeps deadly secrets. But more dangers are imminent: a power-hungry lord, Toby, and Valergrof, a soldier from the enemy kingdom, with his fearsome wolf and a shocking truth that could change everything.
To save their world from darkness, they must all uncover a hidden history, but betrayal lurks in every shadow, and their closest companions may be their deadliest enemies.
Enter the world of Crown of Shadows, where every secret has a price. They think they know their enemy-but do they? This is just the beginning.
To save their world from darkness, they must all uncover a hidden history, but betrayal lurks in every shadow, and their closest companions may be their deadliest enemies.
Enter the world of Crown of Shadows, where every secret has a price. They think they know their enemy-but do they? This is just the beginning.
- GenresFantasy
386 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2025
7 people are currently reading
5712 people want to read
About the author
Lexie Janson
2 books46 followersLexie Janson is a fantasy author born in Poland, where she spent her days getting lost in the forests and stories of old. She is currently living in Ireland, where the landscapes and folklore took her heart. Lexie is crafting intricate worlds and complex characters, often exploring themes of political intrigue and morally grey choices. Her stories are rooted in a childhood immersed in folklore and history. This upbringing fostered a love for ancient traditions and a fascination with the hidden depths of human nature, both of which find their way into her writing. When not lost in the realms of Logarain and Thurait, Lexie can be found delving into history, dabbling in witchcraft, or twirling across the dance floor at a fantasy ball.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 8, 2025
as a big fan of fantasy books, i was really excited to read crown of shadows. the main idea sounded great, and i hoped for a big adventure. this book definitely has some good things going for it.
the author clearly spent a lot of time creating the detailed magic rules, and the main story idea was very interesting. it felt like a big story. the world-building was okay, though i didn't feel completely lost in it myself. but if you like unique magic ideas, you'll probably find something cool here.
however, i wished the book showed more instead of just telling. for example, even though the magic systems were described as complex, i found it hard to really understand how they worked or how they were used, because the story didn't really show them in action. it often felt like i was being told about the world instead of getting to experience it myself, which sometimes broke my focus.
my other concern was about the romance. the relationship between mayu and aaron was said to be deep, but it felt like it happened too fast. i didn't really feel their connection or understand how they fell for each other so quickly, as i didn't see enough shared moments. also, the sudden tension between mayu and enzo came out of nowhere, and i didn't understand why. i personally like relationships in books to grow slowly and naturally, which wasn't the case here.
in the end, crown of shadows is full of big ideas and a good base for a fantasy adventure. while it didn't quite click with me because of how i like stories told and characters to grow, i can definitely see why others might like it. readers who love unique magic and big plot ideas, and who don't mind quick romances, might enjoy this book more than i did. it has many good parts, even if it wasn't exactly what i was looking for.
thank you netgalley and koehler books for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review!
the author clearly spent a lot of time creating the detailed magic rules, and the main story idea was very interesting. it felt like a big story. the world-building was okay, though i didn't feel completely lost in it myself. but if you like unique magic ideas, you'll probably find something cool here.
however, i wished the book showed more instead of just telling. for example, even though the magic systems were described as complex, i found it hard to really understand how they worked or how they were used, because the story didn't really show them in action. it often felt like i was being told about the world instead of getting to experience it myself, which sometimes broke my focus.
my other concern was about the romance. the relationship between mayu and aaron was said to be deep, but it felt like it happened too fast. i didn't really feel their connection or understand how they fell for each other so quickly, as i didn't see enough shared moments. also, the sudden tension between mayu and enzo came out of nowhere, and i didn't understand why. i personally like relationships in books to grow slowly and naturally, which wasn't the case here.
in the end, crown of shadows is full of big ideas and a good base for a fantasy adventure. while it didn't quite click with me because of how i like stories told and characters to grow, i can definitely see why others might like it. readers who love unique magic and big plot ideas, and who don't mind quick romances, might enjoy this book more than i did. it has many good parts, even if it wasn't exactly what i was looking for.
thank you netgalley and koehler books for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review!
August 26, 2025
This book had an intriguing storyline, dealing with magic and sorcery, saving the kingdom from darkness, a little bit of a love triangle, and a struggle for the throne. It started off slowly, and I found it a little difficult to understand what was happening at first, but within a few chapters things were cleared up and I was really drawn into the story. The one thing that was hard for me was that it was written from more than one point of view - there were chapters from Valergrof’s view, from Mayu’s, from Aaron’s, Enzo’s, and Toby’s views. At first it seemed a little chaotic, but it actually was useful as a tool to allow the reader to get into the mind of each character and understand their motives and feelings better.
The book ended in what felt a bit of a sudden manner, like it didn’t feel like it actually ended but, since this is Book One in a series called The White Raven Tales, I assume it was done to draw the reader to the next book. “Tune in next time to see what happens to our heroes…”
The “epilogue” actually took place before the rest of the story, which is something I’ve never seen before (but I’m sort of a “born again reader” and haven’t read that many books yet) so it seemed out of place at first. It was also written from the viewpoint of a character who died during the main story, but the epilogue did answer a few lingering questions that weren’t explained in the book so it worked.
Overall, I would definitely recommend Crown of Shadows to anyone who likes fantasy, magic, and mythology type of stories. I’d rate this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It wasn’t my favorite book ever, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and will probably continue reading the series to find out what happens.
The book ended in what felt a bit of a sudden manner, like it didn’t feel like it actually ended but, since this is Book One in a series called The White Raven Tales, I assume it was done to draw the reader to the next book. “Tune in next time to see what happens to our heroes…”
The “epilogue” actually took place before the rest of the story, which is something I’ve never seen before (but I’m sort of a “born again reader” and haven’t read that many books yet) so it seemed out of place at first. It was also written from the viewpoint of a character who died during the main story, but the epilogue did answer a few lingering questions that weren’t explained in the book so it worked.
Overall, I would definitely recommend Crown of Shadows to anyone who likes fantasy, magic, and mythology type of stories. I’d rate this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It wasn’t my favorite book ever, but I thoroughly enjoyed it and will probably continue reading the series to find out what happens.
August 30, 2025
Crown of Shadows is a dark fantasy read based in a world with magic and long forgotten history. I thought the premise of this book was really interesting and you can tell the author put a lot of thought and time into all the nuances of the story. I really like the flawed characters, no one here is a perfect hero and that gave the story a lot of depth. I do wish that the world building was more, I feel like that would have helped a considerable amount in keeping me really immersed in the story. It was a bit hard to picture where everyone was and the types of magic that was being used and more world building would have helped that out. That being said, the description of the creatures was really well done and it was easy to picture them as I was reading.
The characters are interesting and I enjoyed reading from the different POV’s. Enzo is my favourite, his witty snark was everything. The kind of, sort of love triangle that is building is a bit awkward, I feel like the original duo lost some traction along the way when his character came in, but I am looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
The epilogue at the end was super helpful, I feel like it filled in some gaps where I had questions so I am happy it was there and I would actually really like to know more of that part of the story. Over all I think this was a well done and intriguing book, I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
The characters are interesting and I enjoyed reading from the different POV’s. Enzo is my favourite, his witty snark was everything. The kind of, sort of love triangle that is building is a bit awkward, I feel like the original duo lost some traction along the way when his character came in, but I am looking forward to seeing how it plays out.
The epilogue at the end was super helpful, I feel like it filled in some gaps where I had questions so I am happy it was there and I would actually really like to know more of that part of the story. Over all I think this was a well done and intriguing book, I look forward to reading the next one in the series.
September 6, 2025
An excellent fantasy book with plenty of twists and turns, leaving you desperate for the next book!
I loved the character of Mayu, I loved that she was so strong and independent, and pretty morally grey, and I enjoyed the dynamic between her and the love interests! The world building was amazing, and the magic system is really fascinating and unique. I would definitely recommend this book!
Thank you to the author for the ARC of this novel, in exchange for my honest review; I really appreciate it!
I loved the character of Mayu, I loved that she was so strong and independent, and pretty morally grey, and I enjoyed the dynamic between her and the love interests! The world building was amazing, and the magic system is really fascinating and unique. I would definitely recommend this book!
Thank you to the author for the ARC of this novel, in exchange for my honest review; I really appreciate it!
September 2, 2025
Crown of Shadows pulled me in from the start. It’s a chilling and captivating story where politics, power, and heart collide in the best way. If you’re looking for a fantasy that balances intrigue with real emotional depth, this one absolutely delivers.
September 6, 2025
Wow this book!!!! I am absolutely addicted!!! I want to...NO I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!!! I am very invested in all the characters and the story line!!
August 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5 stars)
Crown of Shadows by Lexie Jansen is an emotionally charged, character-driven fantasy that pulled me in from the very first chapter. With influences from Slavic, Celtic, and Nordic folklore, a world built on rune magic and forbidden history, and a cast of flawed, complex characters, this book offers a rich, layered experience for fantasy readers who love moral ambiguity, high stakes, and hard-won victories.
One of the standout elements for me was the dynamic between the characters. Their relationships—tense, playful, or tender—felt authentic and full of emotional depth. Enzo, in particular, brought some much-needed levity to the heavier moments. His teasing and banter had me laughing out loud more than once, and his presence really balanced the darker undertones of the story.
Speaking of laugh-out-loud moments—one scene I loved (and kept thinking about) was the absolute chaos that was holding a strategy meeting under the castle in a dungeon, surrounded by literal gravestones. The sheer, deadpan absurdity of it, and the way the male characters reacted, was peak dark humour. It broke the tension in all the right ways and gave the book a sense of personality that sets it apart. Enzo also plays the part of psychotic guardian beautifully!
I deeply appreciated the portrayal of flawed characters. No one here is squeaky clean or all-knowing—and that’s what made their arcs so compelling. Everyone is doing their best in deeply complex circumstances, and watching them grow and stumble felt very real and human.
The story doesn’t hold back on action either—there are battles and dangerous encounters that raise the tension and deliver some satisfying grit. The fight for survival—both physical and emotional—is a key theme, and Jansen doesn't shy away from putting her characters through the wringer.
That said, I did find myself confused at times, particularly around the magic system and some of the lore. But as the story progressed, it became clear that this was intentional. The mystery surrounding the world's hidden truths mirrors the characters’ own journey of discovery. It’s a clever device, and it left me intrigued for the next instalment.
My biggest struggle was with the main romantic arc. I adored Aaron—his emotional vulnerability, his deep loyalty, and the sense of internal conflict he carried after being disinherited by his father. But his relationship with Mayu left me scratching my head more often than not. She’s strong and capable, yes, but she withholds critical information from him, often comes across as cold or indifferent, and her choices (like soul-binding to another character while claiming to love Aaron) felt contradictory and emotionally murky.
There were glimmers of genuine love—moments that made me think, yes, she really does care for him. When a demon attacks Aaron and Mayu steps in, fiercely declaring, “Don’t touch what is mine,” it hit like a lightning bolt—a rare moment of emotional clarity. Later, Enzo, clearly irritated, tells Aaron that although Enzo loves Mayu, she has chosen Aaron over and over again, and even that she intends to marry him. Those confirmations should have made the relationship feel secure, but the overall lack of transparency and her hot-and-cold behaviour (as well as exceptionally close and intimate behaviour with Enzo) kept me—and Aaron—off balance.
I’m still unclear about what truly happened between them in the past, why she keeps Aaron at arm’s length (only to pull him tightly back in), or what her connection to Enzo really is. The emotional push and pull created tension, but I sometimes wished for more clarity to ground their relationship. I'm hoping this will become more apparent in the next book and that this instalment was setting up the groundwork.
Still, the psychological themes of control, trauma, and identity add real depth to the story, and I think there’s more going on beneath the surface than we’ve seen yet. I’m hopeful that future books will explore those threads in more detail.
Final thoughts: If you’re into fantasy that blends emotional complexity, action-packed battles, folkloric monsters, mind-twisting magic, and characters that refuse to fit in neat boxes, then Crown of Shadows deserves a spot on your shelf. Lexie Jansen’s writing is atmospheric and layered, and I’ll absolutely be picking up the sequel—especially to get answers to all my burning questions.
Crown of Shadows by Lexie Jansen is an emotionally charged, character-driven fantasy that pulled me in from the very first chapter. With influences from Slavic, Celtic, and Nordic folklore, a world built on rune magic and forbidden history, and a cast of flawed, complex characters, this book offers a rich, layered experience for fantasy readers who love moral ambiguity, high stakes, and hard-won victories.
One of the standout elements for me was the dynamic between the characters. Their relationships—tense, playful, or tender—felt authentic and full of emotional depth. Enzo, in particular, brought some much-needed levity to the heavier moments. His teasing and banter had me laughing out loud more than once, and his presence really balanced the darker undertones of the story.
Speaking of laugh-out-loud moments—one scene I loved (and kept thinking about) was the absolute chaos that was holding a strategy meeting under the castle in a dungeon, surrounded by literal gravestones. The sheer, deadpan absurdity of it, and the way the male characters reacted, was peak dark humour. It broke the tension in all the right ways and gave the book a sense of personality that sets it apart. Enzo also plays the part of psychotic guardian beautifully!
I deeply appreciated the portrayal of flawed characters. No one here is squeaky clean or all-knowing—and that’s what made their arcs so compelling. Everyone is doing their best in deeply complex circumstances, and watching them grow and stumble felt very real and human.
The story doesn’t hold back on action either—there are battles and dangerous encounters that raise the tension and deliver some satisfying grit. The fight for survival—both physical and emotional—is a key theme, and Jansen doesn't shy away from putting her characters through the wringer.
That said, I did find myself confused at times, particularly around the magic system and some of the lore. But as the story progressed, it became clear that this was intentional. The mystery surrounding the world's hidden truths mirrors the characters’ own journey of discovery. It’s a clever device, and it left me intrigued for the next instalment.
My biggest struggle was with the main romantic arc. I adored Aaron—his emotional vulnerability, his deep loyalty, and the sense of internal conflict he carried after being disinherited by his father. But his relationship with Mayu left me scratching my head more often than not. She’s strong and capable, yes, but she withholds critical information from him, often comes across as cold or indifferent, and her choices (like soul-binding to another character while claiming to love Aaron) felt contradictory and emotionally murky.
There were glimmers of genuine love—moments that made me think, yes, she really does care for him. When a demon attacks Aaron and Mayu steps in, fiercely declaring, “Don’t touch what is mine,” it hit like a lightning bolt—a rare moment of emotional clarity. Later, Enzo, clearly irritated, tells Aaron that although Enzo loves Mayu, she has chosen Aaron over and over again, and even that she intends to marry him. Those confirmations should have made the relationship feel secure, but the overall lack of transparency and her hot-and-cold behaviour (as well as exceptionally close and intimate behaviour with Enzo) kept me—and Aaron—off balance.
I’m still unclear about what truly happened between them in the past, why she keeps Aaron at arm’s length (only to pull him tightly back in), or what her connection to Enzo really is. The emotional push and pull created tension, but I sometimes wished for more clarity to ground their relationship. I'm hoping this will become more apparent in the next book and that this instalment was setting up the groundwork.
Still, the psychological themes of control, trauma, and identity add real depth to the story, and I think there’s more going on beneath the surface than we’ve seen yet. I’m hopeful that future books will explore those threads in more detail.
Final thoughts: If you’re into fantasy that blends emotional complexity, action-packed battles, folkloric monsters, mind-twisting magic, and characters that refuse to fit in neat boxes, then Crown of Shadows deserves a spot on your shelf. Lexie Jansen’s writing is atmospheric and layered, and I’ll absolutely be picking up the sequel—especially to get answers to all my burning questions.
July 28, 2025
What an amazing book! I just could not get enough of it, the pages just fly by! The story was so well done, with an interesting world and relatable characters! I would recommend this book to everyone!
August 11, 2025
You need a certain dose of insanity to read this book because if you start it is hard to put it away. You just have to know what the twist behind the corner is.
I had the feeling that everything in this book was happening so fast... What is kind of understandable when you realise that all what happens through 3 months of characters life.
I loved that constant action and funny ripostes... Idea of the BLACK DINNER just got me shivering.... I wouldn't like the invitation, but on the other hand can someone invite me for such an event?
I loved how the whole story revealed from perspective of different characters. This perfectly presents normal human life...lack of communication and different perception of situations is creating the good storyline.
Beside all of that - SO many magic creatures in one book is just supernatural. There is no only one type of creatures, there is a lot... and a lot of it, is so scary... and so interesting...
It is so refreshing to read about love which is complicated without all those erotic parts what is so popular nowadays. Enzo Mayu and Aaron is a trio of the year for me. Complicated love, friendship, some magic compulsions and spells can make some emotional mess.
I liked it didn't omit parental realtions. It's not a lot but it's rising questions.
New world (we were only in Thuriat and nearby areas in this book and there is all Logarain) new religion and totally new military system to discover. I'm sure after reading about Enzo everyone in charge would like to have a sa-noir.
I want to know more about the course of Mayu and Enzo. I'm still not totally sure why Aron is so special. Why his mother had to die? I want to discover the Enzos collection... And what is he actually doing with his collectables? Where does he come from? Why is the mother afraid of her daughter? Is that white wolf magical?
There is a whole new world to discover and so many questions has to be answered. I can't wait for the next part!
I had the feeling that everything in this book was happening so fast... What is kind of understandable when you realise that all what happens through 3 months of characters life.
I loved that constant action and funny ripostes... Idea of the BLACK DINNER just got me shivering.... I wouldn't like the invitation, but on the other hand can someone invite me for such an event?
I loved how the whole story revealed from perspective of different characters. This perfectly presents normal human life...lack of communication and different perception of situations is creating the good storyline.
Beside all of that - SO many magic creatures in one book is just supernatural. There is no only one type of creatures, there is a lot... and a lot of it, is so scary... and so interesting...
It is so refreshing to read about love which is complicated without all those erotic parts what is so popular nowadays. Enzo Mayu and Aaron is a trio of the year for me. Complicated love, friendship, some magic compulsions and spells can make some emotional mess.
I liked it didn't omit parental realtions. It's not a lot but it's rising questions.
New world (we were only in Thuriat and nearby areas in this book and there is all Logarain) new religion and totally new military system to discover. I'm sure after reading about Enzo everyone in charge would like to have a sa-noir.
I want to know more about the course of Mayu and Enzo. I'm still not totally sure why Aron is so special. Why his mother had to die? I want to discover the Enzos collection... And what is he actually doing with his collectables? Where does he come from? Why is the mother afraid of her daughter? Is that white wolf magical?
There is a whole new world to discover and so many questions has to be answered. I can't wait for the next part!
September 15, 2025
Crown Of Shadows had me hooked from the opening scene. The world Lexie built is complex, unique, and full of secrets that keep the reader wanting more. I love the sass of some of the characters; the back and forth banter was fun. The book kept me guessing from page to page and I'm already looking forward to the next installment! Thanks for the ARC Lexie!
July 25, 2025
This is not a Romance, this is not a Fae-Fantasy… this is something special. Lexi Janson has written an incredible dark fantasy, something different to all the other books coming out at the moment, and it is fantastic.
An eerily beautifully written story, with layered characters and an intriguing storyline, this book has me desperate for the next in the series. An excellent introduction to some fantastic characters, an intriguing magic system, and a seriously unique a captivating political realm, this book had me gripping the pages (electronic at least) since the Pronunciation Guide. And don’t ask me about the Dark Dinner. I still don’t know if it was the most nerve-wracking, or one of my favourite parts of the book!
Lexi has shown herself to be an author to be watched, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
An eerily beautifully written story, with layered characters and an intriguing storyline, this book has me desperate for the next in the series. An excellent introduction to some fantastic characters, an intriguing magic system, and a seriously unique a captivating political realm, this book had me gripping the pages (electronic at least) since the Pronunciation Guide. And don’t ask me about the Dark Dinner. I still don’t know if it was the most nerve-wracking, or one of my favourite parts of the book!
Lexi has shown herself to be an author to be watched, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next!
October 27, 2025
From the beginning the book seemed quite difficult to understand, a lot was happening and if was confusing. Sometimes sentences didn't even make sense to me and I got stuck in a loop of re-reading it - just to still not understand. Later on chapters got a bit clearer. I loved the world building and the creatures ideas, it's a cool and original concept but it was quite difficult to imagine most of the fight scenes and sometimes it felt like it jumped around inconsistently.. It was quite a slow and difficult read for me because most things have been told to us instead of shown, there wasn't any good tension or chemistry between any characters. At least, personally, I didn't feel any.
I didn't really get attached to of the main characters. Mayu only had two chapters from her point of view in the entire book. From the POV of Aaron or Enzo I didn't really like her much because to me it seemed like she was playing them, especially Aaron. Leading him on, telling him she likes him, kissing him and then suddently nothing, no explanation just distance and separation. I do understand her but she never was clear to Aaron about anything so it felt like she was playing with his feelings, and I didn't really like that. She seemed to eventually end up in kind of a love triangle with Enzo and Aaron. At least that's what it looked like to me. I'm also a slow burn reader so Aaron and Mayu kissing in earliest chapters made me almost lose interest in the rest of the story but I'm glad I didn't put it down.
I didn't feel any romance in the book. So the book is definitely not a romance. Mayu's "romance" with Aaron was rushed and then faded like it never appeared which makes me wonder what was the point of them getting together if right after they're just friends again with no feelings explained once between them? It felt really strange especially since they kissed many times during the book but it felt detached.. The characters just don't communicate. There was a stressful tension between Mayu and Aaron because they never said what it might mean or how things between them suddently are. They simply let it fade to the background of the story.
I feel like I didn't get a chance to get emotionally attached to any character because there were fights happening constantly and there were only few moments between them that were mostly political. There were rare moments of the main characters talking which never lead to anywhere, because they still kept secrets from each other. It felt like the same conversation everytime they talked about how much they can't tell Aaron this or that or they discussed something political outside of their personal feelings. So their relationships didn't seem growing they just seemed to be happening. Between Mayu and Enzo especially while between Mayu and Aaron it did the opposite.
How I saw the characters:
Toby - fun character I actually enjoyed reading his chapters despite how much I disliked him. He was fun. He was interesting BECAUSE he was so annoying.
Aaron - I honestly don't know what to say, he has the most chapters, yet I feel like I don't know him, he probably doesn't know himself either. From the start I didn't like him because he really did keep putting everyone before Mayu despite telling her he loves her.. But overal I have no feelings. He was left out of almost everything and was in a constant state of anxiety and confusion. His strong feared enforcer persona died down pretty much as soon as Enzo showed up. Then he was just an anxious mess.
Mayu - sort of a numb character? It felt like she doesn't really "feel" things most of the time. Maybe because the times we were in her head felt close to none. She's a badass warrior and kind of a dark queen that cares deeply about Enzo and Aaron. So when she was soft and needed comfort once in a while it felt so unlike her, after the way I've built her in my eyes from POV of others but I liked the chapters the most because they made her seem the most human. Her being cold and badass and then going soft when it matters felt right and human. It almost made me change my mind about her being numb, though I do feel it could've been executed better because despite everything. I still see her as mostly numb in my eyes. Like she says she cares, shows it sometimes too but I just didn't *feel* it.
Valegrof and Alter - I couldn't care less about his chapters or story. He's a cool guy. Alter is definitely not just a wolf. That's all I can say.
Enzo - also have no feelings, kinda neutral.. He is quirky and funny and I do like that he cares a lot for Mayu and Aaron both. Though I feel like him being scary was written way too many times while showed only a few. People feared him simply when he existed near them which felt a bit much when he didn't even do anything to make them scared. I wish it was showed more how scary he is, not just told. Like how his aura might affect people or that there's something off about him that people feel. And explained better.
But in conclusion: I enjoyed the book and the story. It was different to what I usually read so that's why it might have been more of a me problem that I didn't get to feel for any of the characters. There's a lot of surprises and a lot of secrets and plot twists and hidden meanings and possibly spoilers hidden in plain sight? I enjoyed that. I'm only saddened that personally I didn't get attached to any of the characters cause it felt like I was reading about them more than reading, seeing and feeling THROUGH them. That's the one and only issue I had. I hope that changes in book two cause I'd love to know where their story is going to go. And will definitely read it. (sorry if I wrote too much, it's the first review I ever wrote. 😂)
I didn't really get attached to of the main characters. Mayu only had two chapters from her point of view in the entire book. From the POV of Aaron or Enzo I didn't really like her much because to me it seemed like she was playing them, especially Aaron. Leading him on, telling him she likes him, kissing him and then suddently nothing, no explanation just distance and separation. I do understand her but she never was clear to Aaron about anything so it felt like she was playing with his feelings, and I didn't really like that. She seemed to eventually end up in kind of a love triangle with Enzo and Aaron. At least that's what it looked like to me. I'm also a slow burn reader so Aaron and Mayu kissing in earliest chapters made me almost lose interest in the rest of the story but I'm glad I didn't put it down.
I didn't feel any romance in the book. So the book is definitely not a romance. Mayu's "romance" with Aaron was rushed and then faded like it never appeared which makes me wonder what was the point of them getting together if right after they're just friends again with no feelings explained once between them? It felt really strange especially since they kissed many times during the book but it felt detached.. The characters just don't communicate. There was a stressful tension between Mayu and Aaron because they never said what it might mean or how things between them suddently are. They simply let it fade to the background of the story.
I feel like I didn't get a chance to get emotionally attached to any character because there were fights happening constantly and there were only few moments between them that were mostly political. There were rare moments of the main characters talking which never lead to anywhere, because they still kept secrets from each other. It felt like the same conversation everytime they talked about how much they can't tell Aaron this or that or they discussed something political outside of their personal feelings. So their relationships didn't seem growing they just seemed to be happening. Between Mayu and Enzo especially while between Mayu and Aaron it did the opposite.
How I saw the characters:
Toby - fun character I actually enjoyed reading his chapters despite how much I disliked him. He was fun. He was interesting BECAUSE he was so annoying.
Aaron - I honestly don't know what to say, he has the most chapters, yet I feel like I don't know him, he probably doesn't know himself either. From the start I didn't like him because he really did keep putting everyone before Mayu despite telling her he loves her.. But overal I have no feelings. He was left out of almost everything and was in a constant state of anxiety and confusion. His strong feared enforcer persona died down pretty much as soon as Enzo showed up. Then he was just an anxious mess.
Mayu - sort of a numb character? It felt like she doesn't really "feel" things most of the time. Maybe because the times we were in her head felt close to none. She's a badass warrior and kind of a dark queen that cares deeply about Enzo and Aaron. So when she was soft and needed comfort once in a while it felt so unlike her, after the way I've built her in my eyes from POV of others but I liked the chapters the most because they made her seem the most human. Her being cold and badass and then going soft when it matters felt right and human. It almost made me change my mind about her being numb, though I do feel it could've been executed better because despite everything. I still see her as mostly numb in my eyes. Like she says she cares, shows it sometimes too but I just didn't *feel* it.
Valegrof and Alter - I couldn't care less about his chapters or story. He's a cool guy. Alter is definitely not just a wolf. That's all I can say.
Enzo - also have no feelings, kinda neutral.. He is quirky and funny and I do like that he cares a lot for Mayu and Aaron both. Though I feel like him being scary was written way too many times while showed only a few. People feared him simply when he existed near them which felt a bit much when he didn't even do anything to make them scared. I wish it was showed more how scary he is, not just told. Like how his aura might affect people or that there's something off about him that people feel. And explained better.
But in conclusion: I enjoyed the book and the story. It was different to what I usually read so that's why it might have been more of a me problem that I didn't get to feel for any of the characters. There's a lot of surprises and a lot of secrets and plot twists and hidden meanings and possibly spoilers hidden in plain sight? I enjoyed that. I'm only saddened that personally I didn't get attached to any of the characters cause it felt like I was reading about them more than reading, seeing and feeling THROUGH them. That's the one and only issue I had. I hope that changes in book two cause I'd love to know where their story is going to go. And will definitely read it. (sorry if I wrote too much, it's the first review I ever wrote. 😂)
November 5, 2025
I'm giving this book 4 starts instead of 5 because it left me with sooooo many questions!
I have to admit that I don't read many fantasy books anymore, but I really liked the story, because it doesn't focus on the romance but on the action, history, secrets and feelings of the main characters.
There are a few plot twists that you don't see coming and I loved that! I'm really looking forward to reading the next book.
I have to admit that I don't read many fantasy books anymore, but I really liked the story, because it doesn't focus on the romance but on the action, history, secrets and feelings of the main characters.
There are a few plot twists that you don't see coming and I loved that! I'm really looking forward to reading the next book.
August 1, 2025
Have you ever wondered what a YA fantasy book wearing big boy pants looks like? That’s what this book feels like.
The book follows the story of Mayu (royalty), Aaron (army general, also Mayu’s protector/childhood friend), and Enzo (assassin, also Mayu’s protector), as they must face the many dangers that come their way, political, physical, and magical.
Being the first book in a new fantasy series, the world building is a big focus here and it’s pretty solid, I found the multiple religions, cultures, and traditions that the people in the kingdoms of Logarain and Thurait to be interesting. The story itself is also interesting and engaging, with a good flow that made it easy to jump into and go along for the ride.
That being said, there were a couple of things that just weren’t for me – while there is magic in this world, nothing about it is explained, we’re just told when magic is being used, but have no idea on how it works. Being a huge fan of hard magic systems this was kind of off-putting, but since the book does a good job of not making such a big deal of magic users, I accepted it as part of the narrative.
Which brings me to my next point, there’s a lot of telling instead of showing, we have a lot of dialogue focusing on explaining to us what is going on through dialogue, it kind of felt like being in a classroom at times because of the amount of exposition going on.
I also believe the book has a hard time in having a consistent tone throughout. The world building is rich and makes you feel in your typical high fantasy™ setting we all know and love, only for the dialogue to be more modern in tone and style, which really took me out of my immersion more than once. There was also a lot of whispering, like, a lot, to the point where it felt a little unnecessary at times.
Finally, the romance. A lot is unexplained regarding the romance, characters constantly remind us how much they love each other, but we don’t know why, we just have to take their word for it right from the get-go, which makes connecting with this narrative hard, since there’s a lot of trust that the reader will just accept these intense emotions from the characters with no evidence or anything to show for it.
All that being said, I do see the potential this series has. For all the things I’ve been nit-picky about, the world-building was solid, the story entertaining without feeling clichéd, and the unanswered questions did leave me wanting to read the next book to find out more. With just some small tweaks to the dialogue and a little less exposition, this series would really catapult to the top for me.
Ultimately, I think the book was OK, maybe just not for me specifically at this point in my life, but if you’re looking for a darker narrative that acts as a bridge between YA and adult fantasy, I think you’ll have a great time with it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Koehler Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. If you enjoyed this review, you can find more on my blog - Forged by Luis
The book follows the story of Mayu (royalty), Aaron (army general, also Mayu’s protector/childhood friend), and Enzo (assassin, also Mayu’s protector), as they must face the many dangers that come their way, political, physical, and magical.
Being the first book in a new fantasy series, the world building is a big focus here and it’s pretty solid, I found the multiple religions, cultures, and traditions that the people in the kingdoms of Logarain and Thurait to be interesting. The story itself is also interesting and engaging, with a good flow that made it easy to jump into and go along for the ride.
That being said, there were a couple of things that just weren’t for me – while there is magic in this world, nothing about it is explained, we’re just told when magic is being used, but have no idea on how it works. Being a huge fan of hard magic systems this was kind of off-putting, but since the book does a good job of not making such a big deal of magic users, I accepted it as part of the narrative.
Which brings me to my next point, there’s a lot of telling instead of showing, we have a lot of dialogue focusing on explaining to us what is going on through dialogue, it kind of felt like being in a classroom at times because of the amount of exposition going on.
I also believe the book has a hard time in having a consistent tone throughout. The world building is rich and makes you feel in your typical high fantasy™ setting we all know and love, only for the dialogue to be more modern in tone and style, which really took me out of my immersion more than once. There was also a lot of whispering, like, a lot, to the point where it felt a little unnecessary at times.
Finally, the romance. A lot is unexplained regarding the romance, characters constantly remind us how much they love each other, but we don’t know why, we just have to take their word for it right from the get-go, which makes connecting with this narrative hard, since there’s a lot of trust that the reader will just accept these intense emotions from the characters with no evidence or anything to show for it.
All that being said, I do see the potential this series has. For all the things I’ve been nit-picky about, the world-building was solid, the story entertaining without feeling clichéd, and the unanswered questions did leave me wanting to read the next book to find out more. With just some small tweaks to the dialogue and a little less exposition, this series would really catapult to the top for me.
Ultimately, I think the book was OK, maybe just not for me specifically at this point in my life, but if you’re looking for a darker narrative that acts as a bridge between YA and adult fantasy, I think you’ll have a great time with it.
Thanks to NetGalley and Koehler Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. If you enjoyed this review, you can find more on my blog - Forged by Luis
August 28, 2025
“Everyone you see is scared of something, loves something, and lost something.”
In Crown of Shadows, Lexie Janson weaves a tapestry of political intrigue, forbidden magic, and complex relationships, set against a backdrop inspired by Slavic, Celtic, and Nordic folklore. This dark fantasy novel immerses readers in a world where loyalty is a weapon, betrayal a whispered promise, and every secret comes at a price.
The story follows Mayu, who unexpectedly inherits the throne of Thurait. Bound by duty yet torn by love, she must navigate a treacherous political landscape filled with power-hungry lords and enigmatic allies. Among them are Aaron, the late king's enforcer, whose heart yearns for her; Enzo, her protector with deadly secrets; and Toby, a power-hungry lord with eyes fixed on the crown. As Mayu gathers her allies, danger arrives from an unexpected source: Valergrof, a Logarain soldier with a fearsome, magically-charged white wolf and a secret that could destroy them all. Together, they must uncover a hidden history to save their world from looming darkness.
Janson's writing is emotionally charged and character-driven, drawing readers into a world steeped in rune magic, forbidden history, and atmospheric tension. The characters are deeply human—flawed, raw, and complex. Their relationships—tense, playful, or tender—feel authentic and emotionally grounded. Enzo, in particular, stands out as a scene-stealer. Equal parts chaos and charm, he brings much-needed levity to the darker moments, with his teasing, banter, and unhinged energy adding depth to the narrative.
The novel delves into themes of duty, ambition, and the complexities of loyalty in a world where magic and political intrigue collide. The pacing, while deliberate, allows for a rich exploration of character development and world-building. The multiple points of view provide insight into the motives and feelings of each character, enhancing the reader's understanding of their inner conflicts and desires.
However, the book is not without its challenges. The intricate world-building and complex character dynamics may be overwhelming for some readers, and the slow pacing in certain sections could detract from the overall momentum of the story. Nevertheless, these elements contribute to the depth and richness of the narrative, rewarding readers who appreciate a detailed and immersive experience.
In conclusion, Crown of Shadows is a captivating fantasy that blends emotion, humor, and mystery in all the right ways. It offers a richly layered world, morally complex characters, and a plot filled with twists and turns. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy dark fantasy with intricate political intrigue and deep character development will find much to appreciate in this novel.
In Crown of Shadows, Lexie Janson weaves a tapestry of political intrigue, forbidden magic, and complex relationships, set against a backdrop inspired by Slavic, Celtic, and Nordic folklore. This dark fantasy novel immerses readers in a world where loyalty is a weapon, betrayal a whispered promise, and every secret comes at a price.
The story follows Mayu, who unexpectedly inherits the throne of Thurait. Bound by duty yet torn by love, she must navigate a treacherous political landscape filled with power-hungry lords and enigmatic allies. Among them are Aaron, the late king's enforcer, whose heart yearns for her; Enzo, her protector with deadly secrets; and Toby, a power-hungry lord with eyes fixed on the crown. As Mayu gathers her allies, danger arrives from an unexpected source: Valergrof, a Logarain soldier with a fearsome, magically-charged white wolf and a secret that could destroy them all. Together, they must uncover a hidden history to save their world from looming darkness.
Janson's writing is emotionally charged and character-driven, drawing readers into a world steeped in rune magic, forbidden history, and atmospheric tension. The characters are deeply human—flawed, raw, and complex. Their relationships—tense, playful, or tender—feel authentic and emotionally grounded. Enzo, in particular, stands out as a scene-stealer. Equal parts chaos and charm, he brings much-needed levity to the darker moments, with his teasing, banter, and unhinged energy adding depth to the narrative.
The novel delves into themes of duty, ambition, and the complexities of loyalty in a world where magic and political intrigue collide. The pacing, while deliberate, allows for a rich exploration of character development and world-building. The multiple points of view provide insight into the motives and feelings of each character, enhancing the reader's understanding of their inner conflicts and desires.
However, the book is not without its challenges. The intricate world-building and complex character dynamics may be overwhelming for some readers, and the slow pacing in certain sections could detract from the overall momentum of the story. Nevertheless, these elements contribute to the depth and richness of the narrative, rewarding readers who appreciate a detailed and immersive experience.
In conclusion, Crown of Shadows is a captivating fantasy that blends emotion, humor, and mystery in all the right ways. It offers a richly layered world, morally complex characters, and a plot filled with twists and turns. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy dark fantasy with intricate political intrigue and deep character development will find much to appreciate in this novel.
August 25, 2025
A promising start to an intriguing world of dark fantasy
Crown of Shadows is the intriguing first entry in the White Raven Tales. It sets the series off to a good start by introducing unique characters engaged in a thrilling, suspenseful battle against otherworldly beings. Deception, lies, and magic blend together to leave the reader second guessing everything and begging for more, hoping for answers. And, of course, like all good multi-book storylines, Crown of Shadows leaves you with far more questions than answers. In the best way.
While the reader experiences only a silver of the world through the eyes of the POV characters, it feels real and vivid. The descriptions, while limited, provide just enough detail to allow the imagination to fill in the gaps. In a world filled with so much lore, it’s a nice way to ease into the setting.
The compelling plot keeps the reader coming back chapter after chapter. It lingers in the mind even when the book is closed, spawning theories about what might come next. Even with so much left unanswered, it strikes a fun balance between frustration and wanting more.
The characters in Crown of Shadows all have a unique voice, which comes in handy when there are so many points of view. There’s never a doubt about whose eyes the story is told through even when picking back up mid-chapter.
The immersion is also done very well in this book, with very few instances where the spell it casts is broken. Even so, those moments are short and the consistent overall tone keeps everything pulled together.
The book has only a few downfalls, the first being the almost empty feeling of the world. While rich and vivid, there’s a distinct lack of background characters.
In this sense, it’s more reminiscent of viewing a play, where the only people who exist are those on stage. It would be nice to experience the world through a wider lens-to see the characters notice and care about those beyond their immediate circle.
The other area in which Crown of Shadows struggles is the dialogue, relationships, and interactions between the characters. There are many instances where the reader is told that certain feelings or circumstances exist, but don’t get to see them. A character is scary and has an intimidating reputation? Show us. Let us see the the way others react to them. Two characters share a deep, intimate connection that now feels lost? Let us feel the heartache and the longing for what used to be.
Despite these few shortcomings, Crown of Shadows leaves a thirst for more and anticipation for the next entry in the series.
Crown of Shadows is the intriguing first entry in the White Raven Tales. It sets the series off to a good start by introducing unique characters engaged in a thrilling, suspenseful battle against otherworldly beings. Deception, lies, and magic blend together to leave the reader second guessing everything and begging for more, hoping for answers. And, of course, like all good multi-book storylines, Crown of Shadows leaves you with far more questions than answers. In the best way.
While the reader experiences only a silver of the world through the eyes of the POV characters, it feels real and vivid. The descriptions, while limited, provide just enough detail to allow the imagination to fill in the gaps. In a world filled with so much lore, it’s a nice way to ease into the setting.
The compelling plot keeps the reader coming back chapter after chapter. It lingers in the mind even when the book is closed, spawning theories about what might come next. Even with so much left unanswered, it strikes a fun balance between frustration and wanting more.
The characters in Crown of Shadows all have a unique voice, which comes in handy when there are so many points of view. There’s never a doubt about whose eyes the story is told through even when picking back up mid-chapter.
The immersion is also done very well in this book, with very few instances where the spell it casts is broken. Even so, those moments are short and the consistent overall tone keeps everything pulled together.
The book has only a few downfalls, the first being the almost empty feeling of the world. While rich and vivid, there’s a distinct lack of background characters.
In this sense, it’s more reminiscent of viewing a play, where the only people who exist are those on stage. It would be nice to experience the world through a wider lens-to see the characters notice and care about those beyond their immediate circle.
The other area in which Crown of Shadows struggles is the dialogue, relationships, and interactions between the characters. There are many instances where the reader is told that certain feelings or circumstances exist, but don’t get to see them. A character is scary and has an intimidating reputation? Show us. Let us see the the way others react to them. Two characters share a deep, intimate connection that now feels lost? Let us feel the heartache and the longing for what used to be.
Despite these few shortcomings, Crown of Shadows leaves a thirst for more and anticipation for the next entry in the series.
September 3, 2025
I really enjoyed the personalities of the main characters. Mayu, in particular, is a strong female character, and I would have liked to connect with her more and see her explored in greater depth.
Aaron, on the other hand, felt a bit flat. He doesn’t seem fully aware of what’s in front of him, nor does he ask the right questions, and it feels like he lacks passion, even in his love for Mayu. His profound respect for her position as a queen comes across as a little boring, and while there is a love scene at the beginning to establish their connection, that bond seems to fade as the story progresses.
Enzo is an intriguing character. I enjoyed his mix of sadistic traits and genuine affection for both Mayu and Aaron. I would have liked to know more about him as his backstory with Mayu is still somewhat unclear.
I appreciated the plot twists, but having so many at once left me feeling a bit confused and lost. I still didn't get the gods role in this. I think I might need to reread the book to clarify things. While not having got the story at the first attempt could be seen as a flaw, I also recognise the book has a lot of potential. Perhaps it tries to do too much in a single volume; I would have preferred more focus on discovering things with the character rather than being just explanations (given to Aaron because the poor guy is always left in the dark yet he keeps following them blindly).
I also struggled with the third-person writing style, which made it harder to feel connected to the characters. The story is largely seen from Aaron’s perspective, which I found less engaging, especially since he doesn’t understand much of what’s happening, also he is described as strong and scary but that is not shown much in the chapters other then when it's obviously pointed out with comments, but why should we be scared of him?!. Mayu’s point of view is scarce, which is disappointing given her strength and depth as a character (and all the knowledge she has). Furthermore, since most explanations are given externally rather than discovered through the characters, it was harder to feel truly involved in the story.
Overall, the book has a lot of promise, and I liked many elements, but I feel there were missed opportunities. Probably is one of those books that needs to be read all together to truly appreciate the plot. For sure a prequel would be useful to get into the story. Anyway hope the author gets to book two soon. I am a curious to unravel all the secrets either way.
Aaron, on the other hand, felt a bit flat. He doesn’t seem fully aware of what’s in front of him, nor does he ask the right questions, and it feels like he lacks passion, even in his love for Mayu. His profound respect for her position as a queen comes across as a little boring, and while there is a love scene at the beginning to establish their connection, that bond seems to fade as the story progresses.
Enzo is an intriguing character. I enjoyed his mix of sadistic traits and genuine affection for both Mayu and Aaron. I would have liked to know more about him as his backstory with Mayu is still somewhat unclear.
I appreciated the plot twists, but having so many at once left me feeling a bit confused and lost. I still didn't get the gods role in this. I think I might need to reread the book to clarify things. While not having got the story at the first attempt could be seen as a flaw, I also recognise the book has a lot of potential. Perhaps it tries to do too much in a single volume; I would have preferred more focus on discovering things with the character rather than being just explanations (given to Aaron because the poor guy is always left in the dark yet he keeps following them blindly).
I also struggled with the third-person writing style, which made it harder to feel connected to the characters. The story is largely seen from Aaron’s perspective, which I found less engaging, especially since he doesn’t understand much of what’s happening, also he is described as strong and scary but that is not shown much in the chapters other then when it's obviously pointed out with comments, but why should we be scared of him?!. Mayu’s point of view is scarce, which is disappointing given her strength and depth as a character (and all the knowledge she has). Furthermore, since most explanations are given externally rather than discovered through the characters, it was harder to feel truly involved in the story.
Overall, the book has a lot of promise, and I liked many elements, but I feel there were missed opportunities. Probably is one of those books that needs to be read all together to truly appreciate the plot. For sure a prequel would be useful to get into the story. Anyway hope the author gets to book two soon. I am a curious to unravel all the secrets either way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 27, 2025
“Crown of Shadows” by Lexie Janson feels like the start of a new age of epic fantasy — and I honestly didn’t expect to love it as much as I did. Epic fantasy has never really been my go-to genre, but this book grabbed me from the very first page and refused to let go. I was fully immersed in this magical world that felt so familiar and yet so different to many other universes us readers have come to love over the years.
What makes this book stand out is Lexie Janson’s incredible balance. She weaves together rich world-building, tense political intrigue, and deeply emotional character, driven storytelling without ever letting one overshadow the other. The setting is layered and alive, the lore fascinating without ever feeling heavy-handed, and the stakes feel real from the start. Whether you’re here for sweeping kingdoms, dark legends, or just the thrill of uncovering secrets, this book delivers. And the romance, while little to what I as a romantasy reader am use to, found it to be beautifully weaved into the story. It isn't a straight forwards romance, but I don't think that was the writers intention and so appreciate it for what it is because it really is something else.
And then there are the characters, hands down, my favourite part of the story. Every single one of them feels fleshed out and real. They all have their own motivations, flaws, and secrets, much like we all do. The relationships between them (whether it’s loyalty, rivalry, love, or betrayal) are messy in the best way and I hope anyone who reads this book gets to fall in love with them the way I did.
I have to give a special shoutout to Enzo, who completely stole my heart. His character development is phenomenal. He starts off guarded and sharp-edged, but as the story unfolds, you see layer after layer peel back. He’s messy, complicated, and endlessly compelling. He is one of those characters who lingers in your mind long after you close the book.
If you love fantasy that has a little bit of everything; immersive world-building, political scheming, high-stakes tension, slow-burn relationships, and characters you’ll obsess over, Crown of Shadows is an absolute must-read. It’s creative, addictive, and has reignited my love for a genre I normally struggle to indulge in.
Lexie Janson has crafted something truly special here, and I cannot wait to see where this series goes next.
What makes this book stand out is Lexie Janson’s incredible balance. She weaves together rich world-building, tense political intrigue, and deeply emotional character, driven storytelling without ever letting one overshadow the other. The setting is layered and alive, the lore fascinating without ever feeling heavy-handed, and the stakes feel real from the start. Whether you’re here for sweeping kingdoms, dark legends, or just the thrill of uncovering secrets, this book delivers. And the romance, while little to what I as a romantasy reader am use to, found it to be beautifully weaved into the story. It isn't a straight forwards romance, but I don't think that was the writers intention and so appreciate it for what it is because it really is something else.
And then there are the characters, hands down, my favourite part of the story. Every single one of them feels fleshed out and real. They all have their own motivations, flaws, and secrets, much like we all do. The relationships between them (whether it’s loyalty, rivalry, love, or betrayal) are messy in the best way and I hope anyone who reads this book gets to fall in love with them the way I did.
I have to give a special shoutout to Enzo, who completely stole my heart. His character development is phenomenal. He starts off guarded and sharp-edged, but as the story unfolds, you see layer after layer peel back. He’s messy, complicated, and endlessly compelling. He is one of those characters who lingers in your mind long after you close the book.
If you love fantasy that has a little bit of everything; immersive world-building, political scheming, high-stakes tension, slow-burn relationships, and characters you’ll obsess over, Crown of Shadows is an absolute must-read. It’s creative, addictive, and has reignited my love for a genre I normally struggle to indulge in.
Lexie Janson has crafted something truly special here, and I cannot wait to see where this series goes next.
August 19, 2025
4.5 stars!
If you're a fan of the intricate world-building of Tolkien, the political complexity of Game of Thrones, or the hidden magic of The Ashen Series, you'll love this book. The plot is far more complex than it seems at first glance. And let's be clear—while there is romance in this book, the plot is not defined by it. It's a fantasy, written by a woman, with romantic elements, but it is not a "romantasy" per se. In my opinion, it would be a mistake to put it in that box.
We are immediately plunged into a world rich with mysterious, forgotten magic and deep folklore that holds the key to everything. The main characters are incredibly complex and layered: Enzo is a witty scoundrel, poor Aaron needs to learn his priorities the hard way, Mayu is suffering and has to face a big challenge, Toby has his own schemes that clash with his inability to understand the big picture, and Valergrof finds himself intertwined in a fate bigger than he ever thought. The intricate relationships between them are what truly give them depth; they each have their own struggles and must face their feelings on top of everything else that's happening, which is a lot. The very meaning of "love" itself gets put into discussion.
The world-building is very imaginative and described so smoothly that it's easy to visualize everything happening. The pace is fast, and the book is full of unsolved mysteries and conspiracies just waiting to be unravelled. The folklore is also well described, giving real meaning to every creature you encounter. It's clear that the magic is awakening, and the power the characters wield is only going to evolve from here.
I want to know more!!!
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
If you're a fan of the intricate world-building of Tolkien, the political complexity of Game of Thrones, or the hidden magic of The Ashen Series, you'll love this book. The plot is far more complex than it seems at first glance. And let's be clear—while there is romance in this book, the plot is not defined by it. It's a fantasy, written by a woman, with romantic elements, but it is not a "romantasy" per se. In my opinion, it would be a mistake to put it in that box.
We are immediately plunged into a world rich with mysterious, forgotten magic and deep folklore that holds the key to everything. The main characters are incredibly complex and layered: Enzo is a witty scoundrel, poor Aaron needs to learn his priorities the hard way, Mayu is suffering and has to face a big challenge, Toby has his own schemes that clash with his inability to understand the big picture, and Valergrof finds himself intertwined in a fate bigger than he ever thought. The intricate relationships between them are what truly give them depth; they each have their own struggles and must face their feelings on top of everything else that's happening, which is a lot. The very meaning of "love" itself gets put into discussion.
The world-building is very imaginative and described so smoothly that it's easy to visualize everything happening. The pace is fast, and the book is full of unsolved mysteries and conspiracies just waiting to be unravelled. The folklore is also well described, giving real meaning to every creature you encounter. It's clear that the magic is awakening, and the power the characters wield is only going to evolve from here.
I want to know more!!!
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
July 24, 2025
I truly enjoyed reading Crown of Shadows! One of the standout elements for me was the dynamic between the characters. Their relationships—whether tense, playful, or heartfelt—felt genuine and brought a great deal of life to the story. I found myself LOL😂 more than once, especially whenever Enzo decided to poke fun at the others. His teasing was always perfectly timed and added a great layer of levity to some of the heavier moments.
What I also appreciated was how the author didn’t shy away from writing flawed characters. Not one character had all the answers, and that made them feel so much more real. Despite their missteps and uncertainties, each of them was trying to do their best in incredibly challenging circumstances, and that made their growth throughout the story even more rewarding to read.
I’ll admit, I was a bit confused at times when it came to the world’s magic system and the different creatures introduced. But as the story unfolded, it became clear that this confusion was intentional—mirroring the characters’ own realizations that much of the world’s truth had been hidden by the kingdom itself. That mystery added to the intrigue, and I’m looking forward to learning more in future books.
Overall, Crown of Shadows is a character-driven fantasy that blends emotion, humor, and mystery in all the right ways. I’m excited to see where the story goes next!
What I also appreciated was how the author didn’t shy away from writing flawed characters. Not one character had all the answers, and that made them feel so much more real. Despite their missteps and uncertainties, each of them was trying to do their best in incredibly challenging circumstances, and that made their growth throughout the story even more rewarding to read.
I’ll admit, I was a bit confused at times when it came to the world’s magic system and the different creatures introduced. But as the story unfolded, it became clear that this confusion was intentional—mirroring the characters’ own realizations that much of the world’s truth had been hidden by the kingdom itself. That mystery added to the intrigue, and I’m looking forward to learning more in future books.
Overall, Crown of Shadows is a character-driven fantasy that blends emotion, humor, and mystery in all the right ways. I’m excited to see where the story goes next!
September 29, 2025
I was very excited to read this book because the synopsis was so intriguing! I genuinely believe that Janson spent a lot of time crafting the storyline of this novel and tying it all together nicely. The concept of this book was excellent - the plot, the characters, and the nuances in their relationships. This novel feels more character-driven than plot-driven, a characteristic of the fantasy genre. Still, it was challenging to learn about the characters' environment due to the focus on the characters themselves. If this novel didn't have so many other elements mentioned in it, the character-driven plot would have been more effective.
I think there are a bit too many POVs personally, and it was tiresome to switch between each POV. I understand having our 3 main characters' POV, but the additional POVs took me out of the mood set by the main 3 POV's. The good thing about the multiple POVs, though, is knowing what each character is thinking and feeling. I would have disliked Mayu as a character if I hadn't known the reasoning behind her decisions, and the same goes for Enzo.
Another aspect that bugged me was the romance. Aaron and Mayu are childhood friends and have cared for each other deeply. I don't think their relationship was explored as thoroughly (perhaps due to the multiple POVs and all the different events unfolding). Also, later in the novel, it seems that Mayu continually questions their "deep" relationship. It becomes exhausting to read about how jealous Aaron becomes or how he struggles to understand a specific action of hers, and she evades his questions. It just didn't give off "we are committed to each other and we love each other" as someone would expect from a "childhood friends to lovers" situation.
Additionally, the ending felt abrupt to me, but I'm sure Janson is preparing it for the next book in the series. Overall, I enjoyed the experience, and I believe that Janson did create something amazing. I am not compelled to continue reading about this world because I'm not attached to any of the characters or the world they inhabit.
Thank you to NetGallery and Köehler Books for this e-ARC!
I think there are a bit too many POVs personally, and it was tiresome to switch between each POV. I understand having our 3 main characters' POV, but the additional POVs took me out of the mood set by the main 3 POV's. The good thing about the multiple POVs, though, is knowing what each character is thinking and feeling. I would have disliked Mayu as a character if I hadn't known the reasoning behind her decisions, and the same goes for Enzo.
Another aspect that bugged me was the romance. Aaron and Mayu are childhood friends and have cared for each other deeply. I don't think their relationship was explored as thoroughly (perhaps due to the multiple POVs and all the different events unfolding). Also, later in the novel, it seems that Mayu continually questions their "deep" relationship. It becomes exhausting to read about how jealous Aaron becomes or how he struggles to understand a specific action of hers, and she evades his questions. It just didn't give off "we are committed to each other and we love each other" as someone would expect from a "childhood friends to lovers" situation.
Additionally, the ending felt abrupt to me, but I'm sure Janson is preparing it for the next book in the series. Overall, I enjoyed the experience, and I believe that Janson did create something amazing. I am not compelled to continue reading about this world because I'm not attached to any of the characters or the world they inhabit.
Thank you to NetGallery and Köehler Books for this e-ARC!
July 16, 2025
I enjoyed the premise of this book and the idea of the different gods.
I spent most of the book completely confused however which meant that it wasn’t as enjoyable read as it could have been.
It was great to get different characters experiences / points of view - however you would start to feel like you understood one character / the storyline and then it would jump to another character and jump in time.
There were so many questions forming in my head that just didn’t get explained. Even the ending didn’t shed any light but opened up more questions leading to more frustration.
If another book is released will I read it? Ultimately yes as I want to know the answers.
What is Maui hiding? What is her connection / relationship to Enzo? What’s been done to arron and how does this relate to his relationship with Mayu.
Speaking of which - this was another area that I felt completely confused about. Does she like him romantically or is she just stringing him along? There were moments that led me to believe that she does love him ‘Don’t touch what is mine’ but most of book she comes across as being indifferent and the real interest is with Enzo.
Ultimately it’s a very confusing book to read
I spent most of the book completely confused however which meant that it wasn’t as enjoyable read as it could have been.
It was great to get different characters experiences / points of view - however you would start to feel like you understood one character / the storyline and then it would jump to another character and jump in time.
There were so many questions forming in my head that just didn’t get explained. Even the ending didn’t shed any light but opened up more questions leading to more frustration.
If another book is released will I read it? Ultimately yes as I want to know the answers.
What is Maui hiding? What is her connection / relationship to Enzo? What’s been done to arron and how does this relate to his relationship with Mayu.
Speaking of which - this was another area that I felt completely confused about. Does she like him romantically or is she just stringing him along? There were moments that led me to believe that she does love him ‘Don’t touch what is mine’ but most of book she comes across as being indifferent and the real interest is with Enzo.
Ultimately it’s a very confusing book to read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2025
There is a really rule focused magic system, but there was a lot of diving into the actual magic system to me. This book created more questions than any answers that were given. I will be honest I felt a bit lost at times and did not fully connect with the story as there was very little world building because we didn't get to see the magic system in action.
I was also a bit confused about who was the actual love interest for Mayu, was it Aaron her betrothed or Mayu who she seemed to have a tension filled relationship with that almost seemed intimate so I wasn't sure what was happening with all of that.
There is a lot of action with battles and action so that was interesting as well as the variety of magical creatures included. I also enjoyed having the POV's from different characters as it allowed you to get to know them a little better.
Overall it is a fantasy story, that I do hope gets better and more diving into the magic and world for the next book. Also, I hope we get some clarity on the true love interest or maybe there will be more than one love interest but I still hope we get more information.
Thank you NetGalley and Koehler Books for allowing me to read this early. All of my opinions are my own.
I was also a bit confused about who was the actual love interest for Mayu, was it Aaron her betrothed or Mayu who she seemed to have a tension filled relationship with that almost seemed intimate so I wasn't sure what was happening with all of that.
There is a lot of action with battles and action so that was interesting as well as the variety of magical creatures included. I also enjoyed having the POV's from different characters as it allowed you to get to know them a little better.
Overall it is a fantasy story, that I do hope gets better and more diving into the magic and world for the next book. Also, I hope we get some clarity on the true love interest or maybe there will be more than one love interest but I still hope we get more information.
Thank you NetGalley and Koehler Books for allowing me to read this early. All of my opinions are my own.
July 27, 2025
While the premise of Crown of Shadows sounded like something I'd typically enjoy, I had several issues with the writing style that prevented me from fully connecting with it.
The world building was decent overall, but key elements went unexplained. The characters clearly loved each other, but I never understood why. The magic system was barely touched upon—I only knew that some characters had magic, nothing more.
At the same time, the author over-described mundane details in a number of different scenes. We were told where people stood, how they moved, facial expressions, etc. This made the pacing drag when I wanted more substance about the world and relationships instead.
The random lines in first person were distracting. The book has third person and multiple POVs, but then includes italicized lines for internal dialogue. The tone used in those lines didn't match the rest of the story and it took me out of the story every single time.
Overall not for me, but had some good elements that could make it an interesting read for others!
Thank you to Netgalley and Koehler Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The world building was decent overall, but key elements went unexplained. The characters clearly loved each other, but I never understood why. The magic system was barely touched upon—I only knew that some characters had magic, nothing more.
At the same time, the author over-described mundane details in a number of different scenes. We were told where people stood, how they moved, facial expressions, etc. This made the pacing drag when I wanted more substance about the world and relationships instead.
The random lines in first person were distracting. The book has third person and multiple POVs, but then includes italicized lines for internal dialogue. The tone used in those lines didn't match the rest of the story and it took me out of the story every single time.
Overall not for me, but had some good elements that could make it an interesting read for others!
Thank you to Netgalley and Koehler Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 12, 2026
It felt like what would happen if "Keeping Up With The Kardashians" met "Game of Thrones." But somehow it worked, and I can't bring myself to give it less than 4 stars.
It definitely felt like it was written at a lower reading level and not necessarily as linguistically intelligent as I would have expected for how developed the fantasy world is.
I also had mixed feelings about Janson's world building, but I think that might just be an area where authors can't win with me. I feel like we got very little background or explanation of how the magic system of Logarain/Thurait works, and at times this made me feel like I had missed something or had to try to catch up somehow. While this was annoying, I also know I'd be annoyed if she sat there and explained every little detail or every little thing a la Tolkien.
I really did not feel much connection to Mayu, but I like both Aaron and Enzo. They kind of gave Peeta and Gale vibes- anyone else?
All in all, quick, fun, and readable, just not particularly deep or engaging.
Thank you to the author and Goodreads Giveaways for sending a copy for review.
It definitely felt like it was written at a lower reading level and not necessarily as linguistically intelligent as I would have expected for how developed the fantasy world is.
I also had mixed feelings about Janson's world building, but I think that might just be an area where authors can't win with me. I feel like we got very little background or explanation of how the magic system of Logarain/Thurait works, and at times this made me feel like I had missed something or had to try to catch up somehow. While this was annoying, I also know I'd be annoyed if she sat there and explained every little detail or every little thing a la Tolkien.
I really did not feel much connection to Mayu, but I like both Aaron and Enzo. They kind of gave Peeta and Gale vibes- anyone else?
All in all, quick, fun, and readable, just not particularly deep or engaging.
Thank you to the author and Goodreads Giveaways for sending a copy for review.
September 17, 2025
Lexie Janson's debut book is a stunning achievement. Her writing is masterful, with a well-structured narrative that's both logical and engaging.
Not gonna lie, I was initially hesitant about the multiple POVs, but they were justified, and added incredible depth to the story, and the author handled them with finesse.
The character dynamics are fantastic, making it easy to become invested in their relationships and care about their journeys. Each character is multidimensional and realistic, feeling like real people rather than fictional constructs full of cliches.
This book is a thrill ride, with court intrigue, battle scenes, and conspiracies that keep the tension high and emotions raw.
The romantic arc is beautifully woven in. It's organic and believable.
Overall, this debut is a testament to Lexie Janson's skill as a storyteller. Well-done!
Not gonna lie, I was initially hesitant about the multiple POVs, but they were justified, and added incredible depth to the story, and the author handled them with finesse.
The character dynamics are fantastic, making it easy to become invested in their relationships and care about their journeys. Each character is multidimensional and realistic, feeling like real people rather than fictional constructs full of cliches.
This book is a thrill ride, with court intrigue, battle scenes, and conspiracies that keep the tension high and emotions raw.
The romantic arc is beautifully woven in. It's organic and believable.
Overall, this debut is a testament to Lexie Janson's skill as a storyteller. Well-done!
November 7, 2025
I'm a huge fan of dark fantasy, and wasn't sure what to expect of this first book in the White Raven Tales series from a new author, but I absolutely loved it. It's very quirky - demonstrating some fairly serious flaws in all the protagonists, and with sections written from each one's point of view it was a bit confusing at first - but it helps build the overall picture well, while also hinting at the various motivations each character has under the surface.
With those flaws, and some political machinations at every turn, I wasn't sure who my favourite character was - it changes throughout, and I expect I'll probably change my opinion when I get into the next book (can't wait for it to come out!)
The amount of influence from Gaelic and Norse myths helps set the background environment well - giving Lexie a solid grounding for the story arcs.
Go buy it!
With those flaws, and some political machinations at every turn, I wasn't sure who my favourite character was - it changes throughout, and I expect I'll probably change my opinion when I get into the next book (can't wait for it to come out!)
The amount of influence from Gaelic and Norse myths helps set the background environment well - giving Lexie a solid grounding for the story arcs.
Go buy it!
September 30, 2025
I really wanted to love this book and I’m sure there is a place for it but unfortunately it just didn’t hit for me. I was definitely pulled in by the cover and the description but the book itself is a little all over the place. There is so much expository dialogue that it tends to drag a bit but then I’m also left confused over other key points of the story like the magic system and romance. It reads like it’s wanting to be a high fantasy so badly but is just stuck in YA due to the dialogue tone and flimsy plot. I do feel like this author could go far because she does have some really solid ideas and I would discount any future books just yet
A free copy was provided by Koehler Books through NetGalley. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
A free copy was provided by Koehler Books through NetGalley. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
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September 9, 2025I had high hopes for this book but honestly I don't know how I feel. The story read like a YA novel that was masquerading as a new adult/adult romance and I do think that it could be done as a sort of "bridge" between the two, I don't think this book was it but looking beyond that, I did enjoy the overall concept of the story and can see the potential and where future books could go. I can see myself picking up this book again with the right formatting after it is published (the eARC was definitely formatted funky but that is to the fault of technology, not the author!) and I would pick up any future books.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for a review!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for a review!
August 23, 2025
This opening book was way too slow. The idea of the story makes sense and it has a lot of potential but the writing drags too much. I had a hard time figuring out who was who and what they were doing. Especially Toby, i just didnt care about him at all. That being said I think Enzo was my favorite character. He was just chill… until he wasn’t! It was great!!!
It did finally pick up once King Nep died. Sorry Nep. But seeing Aaron and Toby get their justice was cool. I just wish it had been chapter 5 and not the chapter it was - actually halfway through the book.
It did finally pick up once King Nep died. Sorry Nep. But seeing Aaron and Toby get their justice was cool. I just wish it had been chapter 5 and not the chapter it was - actually halfway through the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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