A Blade of Blood and Shadow

The Ravaged Kingdom #1

by Willow Bishop

Lyra has three rules for staying Keep your blades sharp, don’t trust anyone, and never, ever bargain with the fae.

As a huntress living in the Blood Quarter among vampires, witches, and faeries, Lyra has learned to survive in a world of death and shadows. She dreams of one day escaping her life of brutality under a ruthless master, but when she’s ambushed by a horde of demons, her salvation comes from an unexpected source — a handsome dark fae whose allure is as deadly as his magic.

Kaden is powerful, cunning, and charming — everything Lyra has been bred to distrust. But with demons invading the mortal realm, Lyra is no longer certain that the monsters of her world are the biggest threat she faces.

As Kaden draws her into the shimmering, deceptive world of the fae and cracks the door to her past, Lyra begins to question the limits of her own powers and the motives of those who seek to harness them.

Can she trust the male who’s slipped into her heart, or will her desire be her undoing?

A Blade of Blood and Shadow is the first book in the enemies-to-lovers dark fantasy romance series The Ravaged Kingdom — perfect for fans of ACOTAR, Crowns of Nyaxia, Gods & Monsters, and The Broken Kingdoms series.

What readers are
Sharp blades, slow burns, and a shadow daddy I absolutely wasn’t ready for.

Lyra, a blade-wielding huntress, and Kaden, a winged dark fae, clash and combust in a story full of betrayal, tension, and nonstop action.

If you love deadly fae, fierce girls with blades and bite, and fantasy worlds that slap — this series is going to own you.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Fae, Audiobook

314 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 21, 2025

About the author

Willow Bishop has been dreaming up imaginary worlds since she was eight years old. She lives in the mountains of Colorado with her partner in crime, two dogs, two cats, and two wild boys. When she’s not writing or hoarding books, you’ll find her walking through the woods, plotting her next story.

To find out more, follow her @authorwillowbishop on Instagram, @willowbishopbooks on TikTok, or
visit www.WillowBishop.com.

Reviews

[micolreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 ⭐

[Myriame · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy through Booksprout and I’m so glad I did! hopefully you Will have the urges to read This !!! this book pulled me in right from the start and I absolutely loved it. Lyra is such a good heroine and Kaden… wow, talk about swoon-worthy! The world of fae, demons, witches, vampires, and hunters was so addictive and fast-paced I couldn’t put it down. Action, danger, romance—this story has it all. I can’t wait for book 2! please come soon

[Tiffany Sands · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book got me out of my fantasy slump!! 😍 This was such a fun read! 4.5 ⭐️’s from me! 🤩

Banter that made me chuckle out loud, a badass, strong willed and determined FMC, and a deliciously intriguing shadow daddy MMC that appears to have more depth to his character that leaves you wanting more… what more could I ask for? 🥰

First of let me just throw some appreciation out there for how BEAUTIFULLY this book was written and edited 🤩 My biggest pet peeve is when there are major grammar errors or when a book is written to where it doesn’t flow well and let me tell you, this book had NONE of that! 🙌🏼 The writing flowed wonderfully and the storyline was easy to understand and follow which I feel can be difficult with fantasy/romantasy at times.

I thought I wanted this to be longer than the 280 pages, but honestly I think it was the perfect length, especially since I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump I feel it was the absolute perfect length to get me back into my fantasy vibe 😌 That being said, I do wish there was a little more world building up front, but I feel there was at least enough to give you a solid idea of the world through the whole storyline.

If you’re looking for a quick read that you’ll absolutely devour and be left wanting more… definitely give this one a go! I NEED to know what happens next in Kaden & Lyra’s story! 😧.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Blade of Blood and Shadow

Loved it!! I easily got swept up in this exciting world of vampires, hunters, demons, fae, and magic!

The story was action-packed and kept me glued to the pages until the very end.

Lyra was a character who I had no problem rooting for. She was fierce and fun. I enjoyed seeing her discover who she really is and I can’t wait for more growth in her journey!

Kaden, oh wonderful and mysterious Kaden… I loved him! There’s not much more to say lol He was great. Broody, sarcastic, fun, protective and carrying loads of secrets!! I can’t wait to see more of him!

The story was full of delicious tropes like reluctant allies, fierce FMC, protective MMC, winged MMC, action-packed, quest, revenge plot, hidden bloodlines, unpredictable twists, they save each other, fae, bargains, great world building, dark romantasy, and so much more!

[Leesha.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

I ate this up! & it got me out of my reading slump 🙌🏽 It’s available September 1st! Thank you to the author for the gifted copy!

The whole book, start to finish, was intense and fast-paced. I really couldn’t put it down; it was that good! I was fully invested from the first chapter! Our FMC Lyra is the type to stab first and ask questions later. Which we love that for her. The MMC Kaden: tall, dark, and handsome with a secret past…. nothing else needs to be said there🤭

The information we got in the last few chapters had me SHOOK! It was the perfect way to set up book 2.

✨ Who did this to you?
✨ Stabby FMC
✨ Demons, Fae, Witches, Hunters, Vampires
✨ Heists


(I’ll add more to this review later!)

[Allison Lilly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review
A Blade of Blood and Shadow
By Willow Bishop
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️/5
I really enjoyed this!! I loved the mix of vampires, witches, demons, and fae, and the magic systems and world building were really unique! I’m really intrigued by Kaden’s character and I can’t wait to learn more about him and his situation! (No spoilers 😉) After I had already started the book I realized there’s a prequel novella so I’ll definitely be going back and reading that! I’m really looking forward to continuing the series, I think it would be prefect for fans of The Bargainer series, due to the modern/urban setting and the fantasy elements!
Huge thank you to the author for sending me a gifted physical copy!! 🫶🏻

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was fine.

The main characters interactions very much reminded me of Feyre and Rhysand but obviously like a pound land version of them.

It was short and the plot progressed quickly so it was easy to read but that meant it didn’t really allow for any room to become invested in the characters or what was at stake.

It’s on kindle unlimited, I was entertained enough so yeah, 3⭐️.

[Rayrayreadsxo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I took a chance on trying this audio cuz it sounded good, and I'm glad I did! Such a neat story, and that plot twist !!! Oooeeeeeeee well played !! The narrator did a great job too! Now, it's time to go see if there is a book 2 so I can start that asap !!

[Laura Wolff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t believe I have read anything by this author before but the description snagged my attention and I decided to give it go. And I am so glad I did.

If you like the world of Fae, Demons, Witches, hunters, and vampires then you’ll love this story.

I love a good female bada** and our girl Lyra is just that. She is a vampire hunter. Not a profession she chose but one she is currently stuck with. On the night she decided to try to leave she gets attacked by demons only to be saved by our favorite Fae male, Kaden. Anyone have a fan cuz this fae is so hot! I love a man with tattoos and swagger and this fae has it all. Yum-my!

Anyways they decide to work together to take down Lyra’s slimy boss but she has other reason than Kaden and they don’t communicate well. As fae do Kaden doesn’t always give all the information. Although he is more straight forward than the others Lyra runs into.

Turns out our girl is something special and Kaden can help discover what she really is.

This story is a trip and a half. And I loved every minute of it.

My least favorite part is that I didn’t realize that this was book 1 and she left us on a cliff hanger. Ugh I hate series when I don’t have them all. But I can’t wait to dive into book 2 and you should give it turn as well.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Theughost · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god. This book, I’m at a loss for words. It was such an amazing read and this will be added to one of my new favorite authors. Cause oh my god, the characters, the story. Loved it!

It’s the first book in a series and you get to follow Kaden and Lyra. You read the whole book in Lyra’s perspective but that doesn’t make it any less 𝒶𝓂𝒶𝓏𝒾𝓃ℊ. Lyra is a half huntress trying to figure how to escape her life in the Quarter when she stumbles open Kaden who claims he can help.

I gave this book 5/5⭐️
And I would say spice is 🌶️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
(But it’s according to the author supposed to increase with the next book.👀.)

Do you love a good romantasy with a strong female lead? Then make sure not to miss this one! Thank you Willow for letting me read this as an ARC on Booksprout! Now I’m going to crawl back into my hole and read book 2. ✨

[Miranda Burgess · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Blade of Blood and Shadow has a lot of potential with its dark, gritty premise and intense action, but it left me wanting more in a few key areas. The story dives right into the plot, which keeps things fast-paced, but I felt the world-building was a bit thin. I would have loved more backstory to flesh out the setting and characters, as it sometimes felt like I was missing context for the stakes and motivations. The world has intriguing elements, but they’re not explored deeply enough to fully immerse me.
Additionally, the relationship between the two main characters escalated very quickly, which felt rushed and a little unearned. Their dynamic is compelling, but I wish the author had taken more time to develop their connection to make it feel authentic. That said, the action scenes are gripping, and the writing style is engaging, keeping me hooked despite my issues. It’s a solid read for fans of dark fantasy, but it could’ve been elevated with more depth in the world and slower relationship pacing.

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Absolute Rollercoaster of Emotion and Intrigue: A Must-Read for Trope Lovers!

If you're like me and live for a narrative that hooks you from the first page and refuses to let go, then prepare to be utterly consumed by this story. From start to finish, this book was so good – an exhilarating, intense, and utterly unputdownable experience that left me breathless.

One of the absolute highlights, and a definite draw for fans of certain beloved tropes, is the spectacular character dynamic. The protagonist is a masterclass in resilience – a strong FMC in every sense of the word. Her journey begins with a desperate bid to escape a lifetime of hurt, and you feel every ounce of her trauma and her fierce determination to break free. She's not just strong physically; her emotional fortitude and unwavering spirit shine through, making her incredibly easy to root for, even as she stumbles into one precarious situation after another.

And then there's the male lead. Oh, this possessive MMC is everything I could ever want and more. He embodies that deliciously dark, intense, and utterly magnetic presence that loyal readers of this trope adore. His protectiveness isn't just a trait; it's a force of nature that both challenges and ultimately complements our heroine's journey. The push-and-pull between them creates an electric tension that crackles off the pages, making their evolving relationship a deeply compelling thread in the narrative.

What truly sets this story apart, however, is its relentless pacing and ingenious plot. Seriously, put aside your schedule because the story just keeps you there around every twist and turn. Just when you think our heroine might find a moment of peace, the narrative expertly plunges her into a "whole new world of trouble." The stakes are constantly escalating, the dangers are real and palpable, and the revelations hit you like a punch to the gut. Each chapter ends on a note that demands you keep reading, eager to uncover the next layer of mystery, deceit, and unexpected alliances.

Beyond the thrilling plot, the story masterfully explores themes of survival, trust, and the complex nature of protection. It's a journey not just through external threats, but through personal demons and the unexpected discovery of strength in vulnerability.

In summary, if you are always there for:

A strong, compelling FMC who fights tooth and nail for her freedom and future.
A deeply possessive, magnetic MMC whose protective instincts are both dangerous and undeniably alluring.
A plot brimming with twists, turns, and high stakes that will keep you guessing until the very last page.

...then stop what you're doing and pick this up immediately. This book delivers on its promise of an engrossing, emotionally charged, and utterly unforgettable reading experience. You won't regret getting lost in its pages!

[Lilith's_Library_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨Arc Review✨

Thank you to the author Willow Bishop And @booksprout for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

-All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Dark, Addictive Fantasy That Cuts Deep

Willow Bishop enters the romantasy scene with a debut that’s equal parts brutal and beautiful. A Blade of Blood and Shadow sinks its teeth into you from the first page and refuses to let go. With richly drawn characters, razor-sharp tension, and a world teetering on the brink of war, this is the kind of book you devour in a weekend and think about for weeks.

The Premise

Lyra is a survivor. Her life is guided by three rules: don’t trust anyone, keep your blades sharp, and never bargain with the fae.

But when a demon invasion threatens to tear her world apart, her path crosses with Kaden—a dangerously alluring fae who seems to know more about her than he should. What begins as uneasy alliance quickly twists into something far more complicated, as secrets emerge and Lyra’s own powers begin to awaken.

The question is no longer whether she can trust Kaden. It’s whether she can trust herself.

What Makes This Book Stand Out

Enemies-to-Lovers Done Right
The tension between Lyra and Kaden isn’t just romantic—it’s volatile. Their dynamic is full of sharp words, stolen glances, and unspoken longing. There’s no insta-love here. Every emotional beat feels earned.

A Ruthless, Relatable Heroine
Lyra is fierce without being cold, flawed without being weak. She’s not looking to be saved—and that’s what makes her journey so powerful. Her emotional armor slowly cracks as she faces her past, her power, and her growing feelings for a man she should hate.

Worldbuilding with Teeth
The setting is layered, lush, and filled with danger. From demon-ravaged landscapes to fae courts built on deception, the world feels immersive and lived-in. There’s a strong sense of history and magic, but it never overwhelms the characters or the stakes.

Kaden: The Mystery You Want to Unravel
Kaden is everything a dark fae love interest should be—charming, unreadable, and hiding a mountain of secrets. He’s the kind of character who frustrates and fascinates in equal measure, and watching his walls fall is one of the book’s most rewarding threads.

Writing & Tone

Willow Bishop’s prose is atmospheric and lyrical, but never slows the pace. She knows how to build tension, both romantic and narrative, and the emotional beats land with weight. There’s a rawness to the story that makes it feel real, even in its most magical moments.

[Bridie · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars - AUDIO BOOK REVIEW AS WELL

First, I want to mention that this is an independent author publishing their own book and finding their own narrators. Please support!!! I was really happy to find that out!

Like many other  'a ____ of ______ and _____' books, this was a pretty good book. Fits right into the themes/genres you would expect it to fit with that title. if you liked 'A Court of Thorn and Roses', you are in the right place reading this book.
This is a fantasy book in a modern dystopian setting (not heavily leaned in the story but there).The world includes fae, variant human-like races (vampires,hunters,witches), and demons. I enjoyed the different take on lore behind the races in this book and how some came to be. I also like the different relms in this book as well, it kinda gives greek mythology vibes mixed into the usual fairy lore in these types of books.
There is a good mix of plot building with slow burn romance moments---so if you like your romance as a side and not an entree, this is a book you'd like. Plot deals heavily with accomplishing revenge in personal interests, discovery of self and mysterous romantic interest, high-risk adventures, and heists. The interactions between the FL and ML were good. Both are sarcastic and guarded but also transparent to each other in heated moments. Had me giggling a few times. there were a lot of important info reveals that made me feel delighted to find out throughout the story.
Was overall a fun book, and I'm excited to read the next!

if the author was to read my review, let me say I laughed out loud at Kadens breakfast order compared to Lyra's (hers funny in itself too) he literally ordered a Thanksgiving feast amount of food and I think it made me laugh hard even though i dont think it was really meant to hahaha.

AUDIO REVIEW:
there is one female narrator, and I really liked her voice! She sounds like she's in her 20s - 30s and fits the main characters personality and tone pretty well. The narrator didn't exaggerate her guy voice too much either. Just added a little more gravelyness to her voice and, on occasion, accent for side characters, but she didn't change her pitch, which I really liked. Would recommend this books audio version for those interested

Personal book scale
1 star - not for me
2 star - meh
3 star - good book
4 star - really good book
5 star - loved it - adding to my favorites list

[Jacqueline George · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book and what follows is my honest review. Short and sweet: I loved this book and read it in two days. It was a dark, twisty, sexy, and all-around fun read. For readers who love the dark fantasy genre occupied by witches, fae, vampires, and other night creatures: this book is for you.

The world-building is evocative yet swift, occurring simultaneously with the action without feeling rushed. Overall, I wouldn’t call the book fast-paced, but it doesn’t claim to be through the storytelling. It’s a true slow burn that asks you to come on a journey, to put in the time. In fact, the first twisty revelation doesn’t come until nearly halfway through the book, but I believe the surprise is worth the reward.

The author’s attention to detail and descriptive language effortlessly conjure a plethora of colorful, fantastic landscapes and settings. The language pulls the reader through a stunning cacophony of otherworldly topography in an upside-down version of a vampiric French Quarter. A varied and motley cast of supernatural characters straight out of our childhood fairytales, all grown up and richly and vividly described, fill its pages. The burn and banter between the MMC and FMC left me with questions at first - mainly about motivations and believability - but it soon built into something equal parts charming and smoldering. And for readers with a shadow daddy itch to scratch, Kaden (MMC) more than satisfies.

The trail of breadcrumbs the main characters are following becomes hard to keep track of at times. Lyra (FMC) starts her journey looking for one thing, but finds herself throughout the narrative looking for at least three others. This didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the story, but I did have to keep reminding myself that we were looking for something, then asking more than once what it was and why. But I got my answer with a delicious full-circle twisty ending that made it worth the ride. And when I got to the last page, I was genuinely disappointed that the story had come to an end.

Lucky for me, there’s a second book right around the corner…

[Missy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new dark and gritty Romantic Fantasy full of magic, danger at every turn, and a dark winged shadow daddy that captures your heart. A BLADE OF BLOOD AND SHADOW is perfect for fans of Crowns of Nyaxia and the vast worldbuilding of Shield of Sparrows.

⭐️ 4.5/5

This book is for you if you enjoy >
🖤Who did this
🖤Morally grey characters
🖤Off the charts slow burn chemistry
🖤Enemies to something more
🖤Stabby FMC

"Lyra has three rules for staying alive: Keep your blades sharp, don’t trust anyone, and never, ever bargain with the fae."

In a world full of Vampires, Witches, Fae, Hunters, Humans, and Demons... who's the real enemy?

"If I were you, huntress, I'd think very carefully before invoking that name again."

"So you're an equal-opportunity flavor of paranoid?"

"He was poison in a pretty bottle..."

"...little huntress..."

The beginning was a little slow, but once Kaden came on page, I did NOT want to put this book down! I would have read it all in one (1) sitting if I had more time. I was up until 2 A.M. reading because I was so engrossed.

The worldbuilding is vast, with an array of dark creatures. The plot twists are luscious and properly foreshadowed. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to continuing Lyra and Kaden's story! (And, I have a theory on the bargain... can't wait to see how it all plays out!).

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laluna (is seeing BTS 04.25) ☽ · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book was phenomenal! From start to finish, I was completely hooked. I was so immersed that if there were flaws, I didn’t notice them—and honestly? I didn’t care. The only flaw worth mentioning? That cruel cliffhanger of an ending! How dare you, Willow Bishop!!! 😭

What I Loved:

✨ The worldbuilding: vampires, demons, fae, witches… sign me the hell up!

✨ A stubborn, strong-willed FMC fighting tooth and nail to survive, refusing to rely on anyone.

✨ A deliciously mysterious MMC with big Daddy energy. He’s the type of complex, shadowy character that makes you want to peel back every single layer to see what’s underneath. Annoying? Sometimes. Addictive? Absolutely.

✨ The action! The fight scenes were written so vividly that I could picture every single move like a movie playing in my head.

The pacing was chef’s kiss—never too fast, never draggy. Brutal, dark, and gritty, this story doesn’t sugarcoat a damn thing, and I loved every second of it. The romance is definitely a slow burn, but the tension? Off the charts. Enemies-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and I'm hoping book 2 is going to give us all the payoff.

Overall, this book was dark, thrilling, and just plain addictive. Highly recommend if you want an easy-to-dive-into paranormal read with sharp writing, gripping action, and characters that stick with you. I seriously cannot wait for book 2!

[MariaReadsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up this ARC on a whim while being on a bit of a book slump. What drew me in where the snippets from author’s insta and I’m sooo glad I picked up this book!!!

First of all, I love the FMC. She’s strong and witty but knows her boundaries which I found so refreshing. She knows how to stand her ground but is also smart to know how to keep herself alive.

The MMC is my favourite type so broody and mysterious but with a snarky side which creates a lot of fantastic banter between our main characters.

The slow burn was fantastic with tension that was dripping from the pages from their very first interaction.

The pacing was great and I was completely invested from the very beginning. I wish there was a little bit more worldbuilding as I was a bit confused about how the relations between different kinds inhabiting the world were established but honestly it was a minor issue and didn’t take any enjoyment with how fast paced and engrossing the storyline was!

I applied for an ARC of the second book about 30 pages into this one so I think that speaks for itself 😅

I highly recommend it!

Tropes:

✨ humans, witches, elfs and many more…
✨ slow burn
✨ strong FMC
✨ broody MMC
✨ reluctant allies to…
✨heist


I received an ARC and am leaving a review voluntarily.

[Justina Bascombe · Rating 5 out of 5]

really good!

Thank you to author Willow Bishop for all gifted copy of this ebook.

I love the start of this series! It is fast paced, has plenty of action, and there’s more to come.

I am a sucker for a strong bada$$ FMC who was made to feel weak and useless but they treated her like that to hide her true power from her. Watching her come into her power as a force to be reckoned with is *chefs kiss*!

This is a slow burn, enemies/reluctant allies to lovers. We get a hot shadow daddy MMC, a stabby FMC and multiple realms. The world building in this one is pretty good. I look forward to seeing more of the other realms. We also get multiple types of supernaturals. Fae, Hunters, Demons, Witches and Vampires.

There are a few potential triggers because of the treatment of the FMC (not by the MMC) that leads up to the main part of the story. So consider those when picking this up.

But overall, a 4.5/5 and spice is 1 🌶️. The author does mention that the spice will pick up in future books.

[Jenny Derochemont · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Thank you Willow Bishop for sending me an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review and for letting me be part of your street team. ****

4.5 stars for this debut novel. I'm very excited to read the next book. If you enjoy Hunters, Vampires, Fae, Witches, and Demons then add this book to your TBR!

This was a quick and easy read. Lyra and Kaden are reluctant allies and hope to take down Lyra's former boss and rescue her friend Imogen. I loved the slow burn romance between them. I figured Kaden was hiding something, but I was definitely not expecting that reveal at the end.

The world building was done well and each chapter left you wanting to read more. There is a lot of mystery and deceit within the pages. Each time you think Lyra will get a break she is thrust into even more danger. I love a good strong FMC and Lyra did not disappoint. She know's her worth and doesn't want to spend the rest of her life in servitude to her slimy boss. Kaden was everything you'd want in an MMC. Possessive, protective, and mysterious. The perfect shadow daddy.

[Julianne Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book has many fantasy elements mixed into it but in a well done manner. We have our main character who lives inside the Quarter (a place with Vampires, Witches, Fae, and more) as a hunter with the power to sense magic and kills vampires. She is seeking for a way out from being used when she runs into trouble with demons which then leads her into the arms of the magnificent Kaden which hides some secrets of his own (very important ones at that!).

They then work together and go on quit the journey. She is looking for freedom. He is looking to gain a few things as well (no spoilers 😉) They both actually need each other for their end game.

The secrets are heavy and when revealed, cause quite the commotion. The ending is bitter sweet. Leaves you knowing another book is on its way.

We were introduced to so many other creatures along the way as they committed heists, and journeyed to uncover her lost past. So many interesting elements rolled into one heck of a fun book!

Huge thank you to the author for gifting me a physical copy!

[Crissy · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Blade of Blood and Shadow was an interesting read, but I found the pace of the story to be slower than I expected. The main characters were good, and I enjoyed the attraction between Lyra and Kaden because it flowed smoothly and wasn't rushed. The mystery when it came to Kaden and who he truly is had me wanting more. I was truly surprised when it was revealed at the end who he is and who his father is. The story was good, and it was filled with action, enemies, allies, suspense, mystery, deaths, survival, friendship, betrayal, surprises, journeys, hunters, vampires, witches, fae, demons and more. My only complaint about the story really is the pace of it because it made the story drag and I felt that it took away from the incredible story that this could have been. This book ends with a cliffhanger, and I would give the next book in this series a try, I just hope that the pace in the next story is a bit faster.

[Kasandra Kurutz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lyra is fierce and independent. Saved from the streets near dying from a vampire, she has lived the past five years indebted as a prisoner, working for Silas. Silas is head of a hunter group who captures vampires and bleeds them dry to sell the blood for money, a very profitable business. Anyone who has tried to leave is hunted, themselves, and tortured to their death.
Lyra makes a plan to escape and places it in action one night. Her plan is an initial fail, but also reconnects her with a dear old friend, introduces her to a dark, enticing stranger, and reveals her true heritage.
This is an unstoppable binge read that pulls you in from page one with relatable characters, and detailed world building, that keeps you entranced until the end. Cannot wait to continue her story and see what Kaden, the dark, enticing stranger, needs her help with now.

[Amelia Seaman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really LOVED this book! It was a random find on hoopla, and my goodness. I have been in such a reading slump and been so annoyed with all the characters the female characters, their makers, so terrible and some of these popular books but this one I truly loved this one. I really loved the banter. Their chemistry was funny. She was kind of annoying at times, but wow yeah super stoked about this.

Kaden was such a sweet babe. The way his shoulders would fall and shit 🥹

It was also really cool to have a diff take on the various species. I thought it was cool that you could be half a half demon and her being half which half Hunterrrrr. The Hunterrrrr shit was really cool. In my opinion. It was just a really cool new vibe to this genre. That’s just getting overwhelmed with shitty fast writing in the same type of tropes.

[Meranie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love discovering new authors with a writing style so gripping I simply can’t put the book down.

The twists unfold quickly, and the shock of the final chapters perfectly sets the stage for book two… which I can’t wait to read!

It has everything: fast-paced action, shocking twists, enemy-to-lover trope, betrayal, hidden magic, ancient relics, multiple realms, a strong and independent FMC, a dark and mysterious MMC, jaw-dropping reveals… and of course, a killer cliffhanger.

I loved this book for all of that but what I loved the most was how Lyra, while strong and independent, slowly reveals her vulnerability and fear of being alone. And Kaden’s softness, despite his dark past, truly got me.

That cliffhanger had me screaming: @\$%@ I need to read the rest RIGHT NOW!!!

[Penny Thibodeaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a tough world that she lives in. The MFC seems to encounter dangerous situations every time she turns around. Thank goodness the MMC shows up relatively early in the book to help her out. This chick has had a hard life so I have to hand it to her for being so brave and surviving this far. The author does a great job of describing the world that Lyra lives in. Kaden is an absolute trip. How he is able to bring humor to Lyra’s serious nature is amazing. Loving them as a couple. Great book that kept me engaged! They have their own struggles to endure. I am so excited that Book 2 is available on Booksprout.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tabitha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! I was completely invested from the start. This book is a quick read that's full of twists and turns. The MFC Lyra, it seems, is constantly trying to get herself out of bad circumstances only to find herself in more. The mysteries behind who Lyra is will have you continuing to turn the page along with the slow burn between her and Kaden the MMF who should be Lyra's enemy but continues to save her life beyond reasons she understands. As you read, the dark secrets of Lyra and Kaden will unravel only for you to get to the end and have your jaw drop for more! This book will not disappoint! If you love Fantancy, mystery, vampires, fae, witches, demons, and romance, this is a book you will want to read!

[Megan Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Willow for including me in your Street Team and for the digital ARC!

I was hooked immediately! I love a badass female main character! Lyra is a huntress who works for a slimey guy and she hunts vampires.

When she runs into three demons, we get to meet Kaden, the drool worthy dark fae! 😍

We meet Lyra's closest friend, who is a witch. This story has it all - fae, vampires, witches, and monsters.

I enjoyed watching Lyra become even more of a badass and of course I started rooting for her and Kaden. But they both have secrets and a past they're holding back on sharing.

This ended on a huge cliffhanger! When I turned the page and it said it was over, I couldn't believe it! Where is the rest of the story?! Book 2 cannot come fast enough!

[Kristie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had an intriguing world set in the French Quarter, filled with vampires, hunters, witches, fairies, demons—truly all kinds of mythical creatures. The concept was solid, and the pacing made it a quick, easy read. However, it moved so fast that I never fully connected with the characters or their stories. One moment the FMC was fighting demons, and the next the book was practically over, capped with a heavy info dump.

The main characters had moments of banter, but it often felt forced or abrupt, which made their dynamic less engaging. And her ability to use magic almost instantly, with barely any training, felt a bit unbelievable.

Overall, it was an easy read, and I’m giving it 3.5⭐️. I may pick up book two to see if the story develops more deeply.

[The Page Ladies Book Club · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love dark fae fantasy romance, this one’s got everything: danger, secrets, and a swoony-but-suspicious love interest!

Lyra lives by three rules: keep your blades sharp, trust no one, and definitely don’t bargain with the fae! But when demons attack and a gorgeous dark fae named Kaden saves her, all those rules start flying out the window!

The world is gritty, the battles are high stakes, and the chemistry? Off the charts! Lyra’s fierce and vulnerable and Kaden is the perfect mix of charm and danger that keeps you guessing!

⚡️Thank you Willow Bishop for sharing this book with me!