Shadowhart: A brand new forced proximity fantasy romance from the Sunday Times bestseller for 2026

by Abbie Eaton

'A hell of a debut novel. Dragonhart is the kind of fantasy that had everything I need; enemies-to-lovers, a strong FMC seeking revenge, magic and DRAGONS’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

'This is genuinely the first book I’ve read where I can safely say that anyone who liked Fourth Wing will love it!’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

A brand new fantasy romance for fans of Rebecca Yarros and Carissa Broadbent. An ancient prophecy. An impossible choice. An inevitable war.

In the newly formed kingdom of Flambriar, Arla Reinhart is growing restless. Her body craves to train, like the assassin she once was. Thara, the dragon Arla is bonded with, fulfilling an ancient prophecy and making her a Dragonhart, urges her to follow her desires.

But Arla has made a promise to Hark Stappen, her priority is to protect the people of Flambriar and keep them safe from the King of Kastonia.

When Arla accepts an invitation to visit another kingdom, she sets in motion the prophecy she knows so little about. She must learn to trust herself and Thara, following a path she believes is right. But a darkness beyond Arla’s comprehension is stirring and she must make a decision that could shatter her heart. Will she betray the people she loves most?

What to expect from Shadowhart:

DragonsMagicFMC seeking revenge
Praise for Abbie Eaton‘Captivating… had me hooked. The combination of dragons, magic, and adventure created an exciting and immersive world that was hard to put down’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

‘A must-read for fantasy lovers’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

‘[A] character-driven fantasy with enemies-to-lovers romance, complex heroines seeking vengeance, and richly developed worlds where lost magic and political intrigue intertwine’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

'Fans of Fourth Wing and When the Moon Hatched, this fantasy debut is the perfect addition to your TBR’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

'I am OBSESSED with this book! It had so many things that I Dragons, Enemies (sort of) to Lovers, Reluctant Allies, (sort of) Slow Burn and an interesting and engaging plotline’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

'Our FMC is sassy and stabby and I love her. Our MMC Hark is mysterious and swoonworthy. The banter was on point’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

‘The world-building is rich, the plot twists are jaw-dropping, and did I mention the dragons? Fans of series like Throne of Glass and Fourth Wing will find themselves right at home in this exhilarating tale’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

‘Plenty of political intrigue, more than one found family, and a beautiful slow burn enemies to lovers romance’ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

Genres: Romance

421 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication April 17, 2026

Reviews

[Debs Taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I feel genuinely privileged to have received an ARC copy of Shadow Hart. Having thoroughly enjoyed Abbie’s first book in this series, I was incredibly excited to return to this world—and I never take for granted the opportunity to read and review a story before its release.

First and foremost, I have immense respect for any author who can build an entire fantasy world from the ground up. The imagination, structure, and emotional layering required to craft kingdoms, lore, prophecy, and complex character arcs is no small feat. Abbie continues to demonstrate her talent for immersive world-building and her commitment to exploring the emotional depths of her characters.

In Shadow Hart, the story feels deeply centered on Arla—particularly her evolving bond with Thara, her dragon. Their connection is tender, powerful, and symbolic of something far greater than either of them fully understands. Much of the narrative focuses on Arla trying to unravel the ancient truths behind why she has been “godsblessed” and what it truly means for her role in uniting kingdoms. Rather than delivering clear answers, the story carefully peels back layers of mystery—revealing fragments of truth while ultimately leaving us with even more questions.

For me personally, I did find Arla’s inner thoughts a little over-protracted at times. While they certainly add emotional depth and insight into her fears and doubts, I felt the pacing didn’t truly lift off until around the 65% mark. That said, once the story found its momentum, it truly held it.

The final ten chapters especially kept my full attention. The tension sharpened, the stakes felt higher, and I was completely drawn back into the urgency of the plot. By the end, I was left both satisfied and restless—in the best way—eager to see what happens next and how the unanswered questions will unfold.

Shadow Hart feels like a bridge—an emotional and narrative deepening of Arla’s journey rather than a neatly tied conclusion. And while it may leave readers searching for more clarity, it undoubtedly sets the stage for something significant to come.

I’m very keen to continue this series and see where Abbie takes us next.

[Chelsea Keighley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this arc in return for an unbiased review.

I’d say this one definitely has that “middle book” feel. It was lovely to see Arla’s character grow, especially as her connection with Thara deepened. Speaking of Thara, I absolutely loved her. Her protectiveness and strength really shine through.

It was great to follow Arla’s individual journey as well and to explore new places and meet new characters in this world. The story kept me engaged throughout, always making me want to know what would happen next.

This book really sets up the conclusion nicely, delving into the prophecy and hinting at what is to come. The pace picked up more towards the end, which made the ending feel more exciting.

Overall, I really enjoyed it. 3.5 stars from me. Looking forward to the next one.

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and Abbie Eaton for the opportunity to archive review this book.

I really enjoyed the second instalment, it was nice to see the character growth for Arla especially the connection with Thara deepen.

Big fan of dragons so this was an easy one to get stuck into.

I’m excited to see where this goes next

[Luna Gerrits · Rating 3 out of 5]

very enjoyable continuation of the series. I really like reading more about these characters, though i must admit im starting to dislike my bro hark. i also feel like this trilogy (?) could have fit in a duology. however, it was still very enjoyable. i really liked the new friendship too!

thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review

[Donna King · Rating 4 out of 5]

We return to the world of Arla and Stark and their love which has Arla questioning herself as she tries to navigate her change in circumstances - no longer the solitary King's Assassin - alongside a prophecy to fulfil. Arla's character grows and soften over the events of the story. We get to know her feisty dragon, Thara a little better and see that bond grow.

This was well written and the characters engaging, I look forward to seeing what happens next!

[KDRBCK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadowhart by Abbie Eaton published by Harper Collins UK / One More Chapter is a thrilling story.
This is not a stand alone. The story picks up where the previous book, Dragonhart was left off.
Arla's story continues. She's craving training while far away from home and everyone she loves. Thara, her dragon wants her to listen to her gut, and he says train. But she made a promise she's intend to keep. When things are about to enfold she has decisions to make.
I read the first book and it was ok. So why did I fall for this blurb again? I know, because dragons!! sign me up every time.
I enjoyed this second book in this series best, 4.5 stars.