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Shadewitch: War of the Old Gods, Book 2
The deeper she digs into the past, the more dangerous the present becomes.
Two weeks after completing her contract with High Priestess, Keres Von Kesting has finally secured her citizenship and returned to a life of peace and quiet. But there’s still one thing dragging her back into the the journal from Mama Reyes.
After Petra uncovers Keres’ name written in the journal—dated over six thousand years ago—it sets Keres on a spiraling path through buried history that offers more questions than answers. Determined to understand how her name ended up in a relic written long before her birth, she throws herself into research, chasing fragments of lost knowledge and ancient power.
Meanwhile, the rebellion to the south, led by Nemesis, continues to grow, and soon its leader, Alastor, and the High Priestess of Cristata both return to Keres’s life, each vying for her alliance with promises of something she never dreamed she’d answers to who, and what, she truly is.
As ancient magic stirs and war settles on the horizon, Keres must decide where her loyalty lies—before someone decides for her.
Shadewitch is the second installment in the War of the Old Gods series, where trust must be earned, history is a weapon, and secrets won’t stay buried.
Two weeks after completing her contract with High Priestess, Keres Von Kesting has finally secured her citizenship and returned to a life of peace and quiet. But there’s still one thing dragging her back into the the journal from Mama Reyes.
After Petra uncovers Keres’ name written in the journal—dated over six thousand years ago—it sets Keres on a spiraling path through buried history that offers more questions than answers. Determined to understand how her name ended up in a relic written long before her birth, she throws herself into research, chasing fragments of lost knowledge and ancient power.
Meanwhile, the rebellion to the south, led by Nemesis, continues to grow, and soon its leader, Alastor, and the High Priestess of Cristata both return to Keres’s life, each vying for her alliance with promises of something she never dreamed she’d answers to who, and what, she truly is.
As ancient magic stirs and war settles on the horizon, Keres must decide where her loyalty lies—before someone decides for her.
Shadewitch is the second installment in the War of the Old Gods series, where trust must be earned, history is a weapon, and secrets won’t stay buried.
598 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2025
4 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 21, 2025
I love how this book picks up right after Lady Nightmare ends. There are a lot of questions from Lady Nightmare that are addressed in Shadewitch. I liked how we got a little more out of this book. We saw more of the world, politics, dove deeper into known characters, saw multiple POVs which provides a different perspective. There is even an added romance, although that will keep you thinking as well. Is he on her side? The ending is quite devastating but leave me excited to see what’s going to happen in book 3!
October 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½
Shadewitch is the kind of sequel that I was really hoping would follow up Lady Nightmare, which I loved. I was not disappointed !!!
The worldbuilding, characters, and tense, intriguing plot continue pick up where Lady Nightmare left off, and go into more detail about the world Keres lives in and her relationship with those within it as they live with the threat of an increasingly violent guard as well as threats from beyond the city.
Keres grows in Shadewitch, but I'm a way that is measured and feels real. She doesn't suddenly become an extroverted social butterfly but starts trusting Hez more, and even opens herself up just a tad for people like Petra, letting them behind some of her shields. It's honestly a joy to read.
Romance is more of an element than in book 1, but it's still not the focus, more of a sub plot. Yet it fits in nicely, rather than trying to shoehorn something in, and the whole plot flowed beautifully. It is pretty damn hot with the tension of whether or not he is actually on her side.
I loved that we saw POV from other characters than Keres, and reading how Eshe sees the world is so interesting, as she is still learning about it all. It's all so confusing to her, and so different to her life with the demons, that my heart really went out to her, even though she's a half demon who is (on a quiet day) murderously violent.
I was absolutely drawn in from the first page to the last, with perfect pacing and plot twists that are genuinely thrilling.
I promise no spoilers, so I won't speak much about the ending, but it. Hits. Hard.
Book 3 is an auto pre order, no doubt about it, and this was a superb read that I very much recommend!
If you loved the first book, this sequel deepens the story, the stakes, and the characters in a way that will keep you hooked until the last page.
I’ve been looking forward to this one ever since finishing the first book, and it absolutely lived up to my dreams. It picks up with Keres again as she searches for her friend’s murderer, but what really stands out is how much deeper we go into the world this time. The city’s political struggles, the tension of a rebellion bubbling nearby, and that constant feeling of danger creeping in all combine to create a gripping atmosphere that kept me completely hooked.
I loved seeing more of the familiar faces like Hez, Andrus, and the High Priestess, and learning more about who they are beneath the surface. Hez especially feels more layered here, supporting Keres as much as she’ll let him. We also get Esher’s POV, which I really enjoyed. She’s such an interesting character, trying to learn how to act human, and her perspective adds a lot of depth.
Keres herself grows quietly but noticeably. She starts opening up more to Hez and the people around her, even though she’s still guarded. The romance subplot isn’t the main focus, but it adds so much tension. You know it’s probably a bad idea, everyone warns her, even she’s unsure, but the attraction is too strong to ignore. It’s that kind of dangerous connection that adds a real spark without ever taking over the story.
The pacing is spot on. It’s beautifully steady, never rushed or dragging, and I found myself falling straight back into the world. The writing is superb as always: rich, vivid, and full of atmosphere. It really does feel like a fantasy thriller at its core, uncovering corruption, greed, and the price of resistance in a city on edge.
And the ending... I can’t say much without spoilers, but it completely wrecked me. A real gut punch that left me stunned and already desperate for book three.
If you loved the first book, this one takes everything that made it great and digs deeper. The world, the characters, the emotion, and the danger all hit even harder this time. Gripping, emotional, and utterly compelling from start to finish.
Shadewitch is the kind of sequel that I was really hoping would follow up Lady Nightmare, which I loved. I was not disappointed !!!
The worldbuilding, characters, and tense, intriguing plot continue pick up where Lady Nightmare left off, and go into more detail about the world Keres lives in and her relationship with those within it as they live with the threat of an increasingly violent guard as well as threats from beyond the city.
Keres grows in Shadewitch, but I'm a way that is measured and feels real. She doesn't suddenly become an extroverted social butterfly but starts trusting Hez more, and even opens herself up just a tad for people like Petra, letting them behind some of her shields. It's honestly a joy to read.
Romance is more of an element than in book 1, but it's still not the focus, more of a sub plot. Yet it fits in nicely, rather than trying to shoehorn something in, and the whole plot flowed beautifully. It is pretty damn hot with the tension of whether or not he is actually on her side.
I loved that we saw POV from other characters than Keres, and reading how Eshe sees the world is so interesting, as she is still learning about it all. It's all so confusing to her, and so different to her life with the demons, that my heart really went out to her, even though she's a half demon who is (on a quiet day) murderously violent.
I was absolutely drawn in from the first page to the last, with perfect pacing and plot twists that are genuinely thrilling.
I promise no spoilers, so I won't speak much about the ending, but it. Hits. Hard.
Book 3 is an auto pre order, no doubt about it, and this was a superb read that I very much recommend!
If you loved the first book, this sequel deepens the story, the stakes, and the characters in a way that will keep you hooked until the last page.
I’ve been looking forward to this one ever since finishing the first book, and it absolutely lived up to my dreams. It picks up with Keres again as she searches for her friend’s murderer, but what really stands out is how much deeper we go into the world this time. The city’s political struggles, the tension of a rebellion bubbling nearby, and that constant feeling of danger creeping in all combine to create a gripping atmosphere that kept me completely hooked.
I loved seeing more of the familiar faces like Hez, Andrus, and the High Priestess, and learning more about who they are beneath the surface. Hez especially feels more layered here, supporting Keres as much as she’ll let him. We also get Esher’s POV, which I really enjoyed. She’s such an interesting character, trying to learn how to act human, and her perspective adds a lot of depth.
Keres herself grows quietly but noticeably. She starts opening up more to Hez and the people around her, even though she’s still guarded. The romance subplot isn’t the main focus, but it adds so much tension. You know it’s probably a bad idea, everyone warns her, even she’s unsure, but the attraction is too strong to ignore. It’s that kind of dangerous connection that adds a real spark without ever taking over the story.
The pacing is spot on. It’s beautifully steady, never rushed or dragging, and I found myself falling straight back into the world. The writing is superb as always: rich, vivid, and full of atmosphere. It really does feel like a fantasy thriller at its core, uncovering corruption, greed, and the price of resistance in a city on edge.
And the ending... I can’t say much without spoilers, but it completely wrecked me. A real gut punch that left me stunned and already desperate for book three.
If you loved the first book, this one takes everything that made it great and digs deeper. The world, the characters, the emotion, and the danger all hit even harder this time. Gripping, emotional, and utterly compelling from start to finish.
September 10, 2025
After some much needed time to digest @RachelMYodi’s second book in her War of the Old Gods series, Shadewitch, I have am finally able to give a fair and unbiased review. First and foremost, I want to clarify that I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review which will be included below.
First, I want to prepare readers (and fans) of the first novel, Lady Nightmare, that there will be tears. Lots of them. Upon ending the second book, I had to sit outside in silence in order to digest what I had read and attempt to somehow reason that it may have been one of the most heart wrenching endings I've read in some time. What Rachel is able to do with my emotions is nothing short of remarkable, with only two other authors rendering me speecheless after finishing a novel, those of course would be Jennifer Armentrout's From Blood and Ash series and V.E Schwab's The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue.
Once again, we explore Keres' story and how she is dealing with the aftermath of the first novel, Lady Nightmare. What can be appreciated is a deeper dive into her past, offering several answers to questions I had after the first book and somehow gave me more questions in return, which I can only assume will be linked into the next book as well. We also see the return of several influential characters such as Geoff the blue demon and much needed touch of humor to a story that has many moments of darkness. The little demon girl and Petra as the ever diligent examiner of far dead languages and purveyor of exquisite lemon bars from the local bakery.
What I want to characterize and no doubt instill in those getting into this series, that Rachel has such a way with words that you are almost transported into her world and investing in the characters from within. Be prepared that some secrets are still there, some are unearthed, and the truth is not at all what you imagine it to be.
As someone who often times has difficulty in showing emotions, Rachel was able to have me pulling from the well within (and finishing this book in less than eight hours) and allow me to connect with Keres and her story in a way many authors fail to do so. With that said, I applaud her in her writing journey and will painstakingly await the next novel to drip from her fingertips.
And with that, I will end this review with one of my favorite quotes from Shadewitch:
"You have dark energy hovering over you like a storm cloud"
"A little rain never hurt anyone"
#waroftheoldgods #rachelyodi #ladynightmare
First, I want to prepare readers (and fans) of the first novel, Lady Nightmare, that there will be tears. Lots of them. Upon ending the second book, I had to sit outside in silence in order to digest what I had read and attempt to somehow reason that it may have been one of the most heart wrenching endings I've read in some time. What Rachel is able to do with my emotions is nothing short of remarkable, with only two other authors rendering me speecheless after finishing a novel, those of course would be Jennifer Armentrout's From Blood and Ash series and V.E Schwab's The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue.
Once again, we explore Keres' story and how she is dealing with the aftermath of the first novel, Lady Nightmare. What can be appreciated is a deeper dive into her past, offering several answers to questions I had after the first book and somehow gave me more questions in return, which I can only assume will be linked into the next book as well. We also see the return of several influential characters such as Geoff the blue demon and much needed touch of humor to a story that has many moments of darkness. The little demon girl and Petra as the ever diligent examiner of far dead languages and purveyor of exquisite lemon bars from the local bakery.
What I want to characterize and no doubt instill in those getting into this series, that Rachel has such a way with words that you are almost transported into her world and investing in the characters from within. Be prepared that some secrets are still there, some are unearthed, and the truth is not at all what you imagine it to be.
As someone who often times has difficulty in showing emotions, Rachel was able to have me pulling from the well within (and finishing this book in less than eight hours) and allow me to connect with Keres and her story in a way many authors fail to do so. With that said, I applaud her in her writing journey and will painstakingly await the next novel to drip from her fingertips.
And with that, I will end this review with one of my favorite quotes from Shadewitch:
"You have dark energy hovering over you like a storm cloud"
"A little rain never hurt anyone"
#waroftheoldgods #rachelyodi #ladynightmare
October 30, 2025
I have no words. Shadewitch is the second book in Rachel Yoldi’s the War of The Old Gods series. It picks right up where book one, Lady Nightmare, finishes off.
There is so much to unpack in this book. I loved the multiple POVs we got especially for Eshe. We got to learn more about each character, not just our FMC Keres. Geoff is still my absolute BFF and I feel like as a reader, I’m partaking in parenting and watching him grow up, in a sense LOL.
We get a TON of background history on Keres in this book. I still have so many questions but I feel like I am really starting to understand her so much more. Why she does what she does. Why she acts a certain way. I can’t wait until we get down to her true origin story.
Shadewitch was much slower but packed with information and plot twists. We feel like we aren’t getting anywhere within the story but TRUST, we most definitely are. I can say with 100% certainty there were 2 out of 3 plot twists I didn’t see coming. And Rachel, how dare you make me cry the way I did. Totally uncalled for, I’m not sure I can emotionally recover from that devastation. I’ve literally had to sit with this ending for a week before I could write my review. I still lysm and will literally read anything you write while ugly crying. 🫶🏼
In regard to spice/romance. The tension is thick. There is one spicy scene that was freaking delicious. Keres’s shadows are still hilarious and mischievous. I gobbled it up. I love that Rachel continues to keep this series heavily plot driven and sprinkles in the tension and spice as like a scrumptious treat.
Overall, I can’t wait to reread this series once it’s finished. I am now going to anxiously await book 3. And while I wait, I’m going to cry some more. 😭
4.5 out of 5⭐️ and 1 out of 5 🌶️
——————————————————————————————
I received a ebook copy of Shadewitch by Rachel Yoldi in exchange for an honest ARC review. The review above is completely my own. Thank you so very much to author Rachel Yoldi for the opportunity. 🖤
There is so much to unpack in this book. I loved the multiple POVs we got especially for Eshe. We got to learn more about each character, not just our FMC Keres. Geoff is still my absolute BFF and I feel like as a reader, I’m partaking in parenting and watching him grow up, in a sense LOL.
We get a TON of background history on Keres in this book. I still have so many questions but I feel like I am really starting to understand her so much more. Why she does what she does. Why she acts a certain way. I can’t wait until we get down to her true origin story.
Shadewitch was much slower but packed with information and plot twists. We feel like we aren’t getting anywhere within the story but TRUST, we most definitely are. I can say with 100% certainty there were 2 out of 3 plot twists I didn’t see coming. And Rachel, how dare you make me cry the way I did. Totally uncalled for, I’m not sure I can emotionally recover from that devastation. I’ve literally had to sit with this ending for a week before I could write my review. I still lysm and will literally read anything you write while ugly crying. 🫶🏼
In regard to spice/romance. The tension is thick. There is one spicy scene that was freaking delicious. Keres’s shadows are still hilarious and mischievous. I gobbled it up. I love that Rachel continues to keep this series heavily plot driven and sprinkles in the tension and spice as like a scrumptious treat.
Overall, I can’t wait to reread this series once it’s finished. I am now going to anxiously await book 3. And while I wait, I’m going to cry some more. 😭
4.5 out of 5⭐️ and 1 out of 5 🌶️
——————————————————————————————
I received a ebook copy of Shadewitch by Rachel Yoldi in exchange for an honest ARC review. The review above is completely my own. Thank you so very much to author Rachel Yoldi for the opportunity. 🖤
October 18, 2025
Secrets, betrayal, mystery, tension, and so much more. The book picks up right where the last book’s cliff hanger left us, with Keres searching for answers, and transports us readers back to the incredible world Yoldi has created, a world full of magic and danger. This is yet another wonderfully crafted story from Rachel M. Yoldi!
We get to learn even more about the characters, which I really enjoyed. I wasn’t sure how I felt about Eshe in the last book but I really grew to love her and the complexity of her character in this book. Geoff is such a cute character and it was fun to see more of him and his character development. I enjoyed getting to learn more about Keres’s past as well, and I loved that we got flashback scenes. And of course Hez is still my favorite character!
The first book left us with many questions and this book does a wonderful job at answering them and tying up any loose ends. I enjoyed the alternating POVs, anyone who knows me knows I love a good alternating POV, and Yoldi executed it perfectly!
I could not put this book down, it held my attention and had me needing to know what happened next, I truly finished this book in less than three days. This book was an emotional roller coaster and the ending left me absolutely shocked and heartbroken!
This was such a great read and I can’t wait to see what comes next! Seriously, I need the next book asap!
Huge thank you to @rachelmyoldi for letting me be on her street team and for sending me a copy of the e-ARC!
We get to learn even more about the characters, which I really enjoyed. I wasn’t sure how I felt about Eshe in the last book but I really grew to love her and the complexity of her character in this book. Geoff is such a cute character and it was fun to see more of him and his character development. I enjoyed getting to learn more about Keres’s past as well, and I loved that we got flashback scenes. And of course Hez is still my favorite character!
The first book left us with many questions and this book does a wonderful job at answering them and tying up any loose ends. I enjoyed the alternating POVs, anyone who knows me knows I love a good alternating POV, and Yoldi executed it perfectly!
I could not put this book down, it held my attention and had me needing to know what happened next, I truly finished this book in less than three days. This book was an emotional roller coaster and the ending left me absolutely shocked and heartbroken!
This was such a great read and I can’t wait to see what comes next! Seriously, I need the next book asap!
Huge thank you to @rachelmyoldi for letting me be on her street team and for sending me a copy of the e-ARC!
October 1, 2025
I just finished the book… and honestly, I’m not okay.
How am I ever supposed to be okay after that ending?
The story picks up right where the cliffhanger from Lady Nightmare left us, and it never slows down. Every new piece of information only adds to the chaos, twisting the mystery tighter until my head was spinning. I kept trying to put the pieces together, but every time I thought I had an answer, the book threw me in a completely different direction.
The investigative side of the story is brilliant, detailed, sharp, and impossible to put down. And I have to say, I was not ready for the plot twists. Not one of them. They hit hard, and they were so perfectly done that I’m still reeling.
Keres remains a character I can’t look away from. She doesn’t trust anyone, and honestly, I don’t blame her. This world is built on lies, and even when someone seems worth trusting, there’s always that shadow of doubt. Watching her navigate that is addictive. And speaking of shadows, they make this book something else entirely. I’m obsessed.
I wish I could say more, but it would all be spoilers. What I can say is this: if you haven’t read Lady Nightmare yet, do it now. You’ll need it as preparation for Shadewitch.
And one last thing… where is book three? Because after that ending, I’m wrecked, confused, and desperate for answers... And revenge!
How am I ever supposed to be okay after that ending?
The story picks up right where the cliffhanger from Lady Nightmare left us, and it never slows down. Every new piece of information only adds to the chaos, twisting the mystery tighter until my head was spinning. I kept trying to put the pieces together, but every time I thought I had an answer, the book threw me in a completely different direction.
The investigative side of the story is brilliant, detailed, sharp, and impossible to put down. And I have to say, I was not ready for the plot twists. Not one of them. They hit hard, and they were so perfectly done that I’m still reeling.
Keres remains a character I can’t look away from. She doesn’t trust anyone, and honestly, I don’t blame her. This world is built on lies, and even when someone seems worth trusting, there’s always that shadow of doubt. Watching her navigate that is addictive. And speaking of shadows, they make this book something else entirely. I’m obsessed.
I wish I could say more, but it would all be spoilers. What I can say is this: if you haven’t read Lady Nightmare yet, do it now. You’ll need it as preparation for Shadewitch.
And one last thing… where is book three? Because after that ending, I’m wrecked, confused, and desperate for answers... And revenge!
October 17, 2025
Thank you to the author for a copy of this E-ARC.
I’m incredibly lucky to be on the authors street team and I’ve already read the first book Lady Nightmare. I was super excited to pick up exactly where I left off with Shadewitch.
What an emotional, gut wrenching rollercoaster of a ride this second Installment was! I’m not ok 💔
This book is great if you are a fan of: Love, Loss, Deception, Shadow mummy, threat of war, strong FMC, Witches & Demons, Forgotten past.
What I loved about Shadewitch:
* how it effortlessly flows from the events/ending of Lady Nightmare
* I loveloved the different POVS In this book and seeing another perspective of Keres through different characters eyes. My favourite chapters were Eshe (I was intrigued by her character in the first book and her demon background & it was exceptionally fascinating to be in her mind and see how she is dealing with everything)
* The web of lies built in the first book takes more twists & turns in the second book. The danger and the political tensions/threat of rebellion is an exceptionally gripping backdrop to the storyline.
* Geoff the cute little demon: still my best little guy. Learning more about him & his importance in Keres life was EVERYTHING. #protectGeoffatallcosts
* How I feel completely lost for words at the end of the book. I am SHOOK. When is book 3 out?! 😅👀
I’m incredibly lucky to be on the authors street team and I’ve already read the first book Lady Nightmare. I was super excited to pick up exactly where I left off with Shadewitch.
What an emotional, gut wrenching rollercoaster of a ride this second Installment was! I’m not ok 💔
This book is great if you are a fan of: Love, Loss, Deception, Shadow mummy, threat of war, strong FMC, Witches & Demons, Forgotten past.
What I loved about Shadewitch:
* how it effortlessly flows from the events/ending of Lady Nightmare
* I loveloved the different POVS In this book and seeing another perspective of Keres through different characters eyes. My favourite chapters were Eshe (I was intrigued by her character in the first book and her demon background & it was exceptionally fascinating to be in her mind and see how she is dealing with everything)
* The web of lies built in the first book takes more twists & turns in the second book. The danger and the political tensions/threat of rebellion is an exceptionally gripping backdrop to the storyline.
* Geoff the cute little demon: still my best little guy. Learning more about him & his importance in Keres life was EVERYTHING. #protectGeoffatallcosts
* How I feel completely lost for words at the end of the book. I am SHOOK. When is book 3 out?! 😅👀
September 29, 2025
Thank you for the ARC book! Here is my unbiased review.
Rachel M. Yoldi has written another amazing dark fantasy! Shadewitch picks up immediately and continues Keres story from Lady Nightmare. Keres fulfilled her agreement and has her citizenship. Now, with the help of Petra she can focus on the book Mama Reyes gave her and why her name was in it. Keres is pulled deeper into the High Priestesses circle, all the while the shadows warn her of the danger. Alastor keeps inserting himself into Keres life and the shadows can’t get enough of him. But, who can be trusted?
First, be forewarned the ending is devastating. I’m still trying to get over that! But, a lot of the questions that Lady Nightmare left are now answered and there are glimpses of Keres past. Many of the same characters from Lady Nightmare are in Shadewitch and there is a better glimpse into who they are. While Keres has trouble trusting others, Hez and the half demon, Eshe and the demon Goeff are an important part of Keres life, and their relationship seemed to deepen throughout the story. Alastor is an intriguing love interest and leaves you wondering if he can truly be trusted. Overall, another great book and I can’t wait to read book 3. Highly recommend!
Rachel M. Yoldi has written another amazing dark fantasy! Shadewitch picks up immediately and continues Keres story from Lady Nightmare. Keres fulfilled her agreement and has her citizenship. Now, with the help of Petra she can focus on the book Mama Reyes gave her and why her name was in it. Keres is pulled deeper into the High Priestesses circle, all the while the shadows warn her of the danger. Alastor keeps inserting himself into Keres life and the shadows can’t get enough of him. But, who can be trusted?
First, be forewarned the ending is devastating. I’m still trying to get over that! But, a lot of the questions that Lady Nightmare left are now answered and there are glimpses of Keres past. Many of the same characters from Lady Nightmare are in Shadewitch and there is a better glimpse into who they are. While Keres has trouble trusting others, Hez and the half demon, Eshe and the demon Goeff are an important part of Keres life, and their relationship seemed to deepen throughout the story. Alastor is an intriguing love interest and leaves you wondering if he can truly be trusted. Overall, another great book and I can’t wait to read book 3. Highly recommend!
October 29, 2025
In part 2 of Lady Nightmare, we get to see more of the dynamics of Hezekiah, Geoff, and Eshe in Shadewitch. We see the expansion of this unique world with the introduction of multiple POV’s, new characters including a stalker, and more about the mystery of the unassuming book from Madame Reyes. Webs of mystery and deceit pull taut, friendships and trust are tested, betrayals are inevitable, Rachel Yoldi successfully gives us more insight of the intricacies of what is Keres. She seems to have affinities to witches as well as a connection to a higher being given her constant shadow companions, and those Keres interact with are trying to take advantage of her abilities. All are coming to a head when all that she value is suddenly taken from her in just the last chapter. How she reacts in the next book will be interesting as we will most likely see a major shift in the dynamics of forced alliances and true friendships in the battle for justice and truth of what is Keres. I have a feeling Keres is about to discover whatever she knows, who she thinks she is, and what she is capable of is going to monumentally change in the next installment, and I am here for it. Thank you Rachel Yoldi for giving the PNR world a book of this caliber. Shadewitch will be in my top 5 reads for 2025.
October 15, 2025
📚Book Review📚
🤫Spoiler Free🤫
⭐️4.3 Stars⭐️
💝Gifted eARC💝
Thank you so much to the incredible @rachelmyoldi for letting me read ShadeWitch early!
First off I love Geoff so much! He adds so much to the story with his silly presence!
The first book Lady Nightmare had me asking myself so many questions that were finally answered for me in book two! I loved seeing Keres continue to grow and still manage to piss off everyone in the process!
I loved getting to see things from Eshe’s point of view and my love for her character grew throughout this book! There is still so much mystery about Keres past that I’m excited to discover more about and the ending has me needing book three immediately, how dare you @rachelmyoldi for doing that to me!!🤣🫶🏻
Thank you again Rachel for gifting me an early copy of ShadeWitch!
TROPES:
-Strong FMC💪🏻
-Shadow Mommy🪄
-Witches✨
-Forgotten Past🌄
-Spicy🌶️
-Demons😈
🤫Spoiler Free🤫
⭐️4.3 Stars⭐️
💝Gifted eARC💝
Thank you so much to the incredible @rachelmyoldi for letting me read ShadeWitch early!
First off I love Geoff so much! He adds so much to the story with his silly presence!
The first book Lady Nightmare had me asking myself so many questions that were finally answered for me in book two! I loved seeing Keres continue to grow and still manage to piss off everyone in the process!
I loved getting to see things from Eshe’s point of view and my love for her character grew throughout this book! There is still so much mystery about Keres past that I’m excited to discover more about and the ending has me needing book three immediately, how dare you @rachelmyoldi for doing that to me!!🤣🫶🏻
Thank you again Rachel for gifting me an early copy of ShadeWitch!
TROPES:
-Strong FMC💪🏻
-Shadow Mommy🪄
-Witches✨
-Forgotten Past🌄
-Spicy🌶️
-Demons😈
October 19, 2025
This sequel took everything that worked in Lady Nightmare and turned the tension all the way up. Keres has earned her fragile peace, but it never lasts for long. The story opens with a false sense of calm before it dives headfirst into something darker and more dangerous.
The world expands beautifully in this book. What used to feel small and secret suddenly feels vast and alive. The politics, the mythology, and the gods hiding behind mortal walls all collide in ways that raise the stakes without losing the personal heart of the story. Keres’ choices carry real emotional weight, and every chapter adds new consequences to what she thought she understood.
What I appreciated most was how emotional this story felt. The power struggles and curses are intense, but the heart of it is still about identity, loyalty, and what you’re willing to sacrifice for freedom. Rachel Yoldi’s writing has a cinematic quality that makes every scene feel vivid and dangerous.
The world expands beautifully in this book. What used to feel small and secret suddenly feels vast and alive. The politics, the mythology, and the gods hiding behind mortal walls all collide in ways that raise the stakes without losing the personal heart of the story. Keres’ choices carry real emotional weight, and every chapter adds new consequences to what she thought she understood.
What I appreciated most was how emotional this story felt. The power struggles and curses are intense, but the heart of it is still about identity, loyalty, and what you’re willing to sacrifice for freedom. Rachel Yoldi’s writing has a cinematic quality that makes every scene feel vivid and dangerous.
October 29, 2025
Man. This series is so amazing. It starts right where Lady Nightmare ended. Which I loved. The ending of this has me screaming in to the void. WHAT ON EARTH WAS WHAT?!? Now I gotta wait until the 3rd book comes out to get more information
This book is thick like Lady Nightmare. She is full of information, secrets, mysteries. You really don’t get a break from the chaos unless you put the book down. Every time I thought I knew what was gonna happen, I was wrong. Horribly wrong.
Every part of this story was amazing. The way it’s written will make it so you can’t put the book down. Learning more about Keres was so magical. She has so many layers and watching some of getting pulled back was amazing.
I really enjoyed every second. UNTIL THE ENDING. Omgggg talk about cliffhanger. I’m slightly traumatized by it.
This book is thick like Lady Nightmare. She is full of information, secrets, mysteries. You really don’t get a break from the chaos unless you put the book down. Every time I thought I knew what was gonna happen, I was wrong. Horribly wrong.
Every part of this story was amazing. The way it’s written will make it so you can’t put the book down. Learning more about Keres was so magical. She has so many layers and watching some of getting pulled back was amazing.
I really enjoyed every second. UNTIL THE ENDING. Omgggg talk about cliffhanger. I’m slightly traumatized by it.
September 27, 2025
I was provided an ARC copy by the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Book two picks up where book one left off; Keres is attempting to piece together the large and intricate puzzle regarding the necklace given to the High Priestess at end of book 1, Kahlil’s murder, a potential rebellion and war, and how Keres is important to it all. While attempting to figure out the puzzle, Keres is also figuring out who can be trusted, while getting some interesting offers from some unexpected characters. We also get more of Keres’ backstory, and multiple chapters from Eshe’s point of view.
Overall, I am enjoying this series. Book 2 definitely delves deeper into the story, for what I believe is going to be a big reveal and how everything connects together.
Book two picks up where book one left off; Keres is attempting to piece together the large and intricate puzzle regarding the necklace given to the High Priestess at end of book 1, Kahlil’s murder, a potential rebellion and war, and how Keres is important to it all. While attempting to figure out the puzzle, Keres is also figuring out who can be trusted, while getting some interesting offers from some unexpected characters. We also get more of Keres’ backstory, and multiple chapters from Eshe’s point of view.
Overall, I am enjoying this series. Book 2 definitely delves deeper into the story, for what I believe is going to be a big reveal and how everything connects together.
October 20, 2025
Two words. Buckle. Up.
This is the second book in Rachel Yoldi's War of the Old Gods series. Book one, Lady Nightmare, is absolutely amazing.. but Shadewitch steals the show and will leave you begging for more.
Keres, our beautifully broken FMC, continues on her journey of healing while still desperately trying to escape her past.
So many questions from book one are answered and truths are revealed... only for you to formulate so many more questions and theories as this story continues to unfold.
The slow-burn romance is.. just wow. Perfect. (No spoilers here.)
The emotional damage... is actually emotional devastation. Prepare now.
The superb world building continues and the magic system, political scheming, and secrets will have you saying "one more chapter" again and again.
I can not wait to see Keres' story continue!
If this isn't already on your tbr, on your shelf, or in your kindle.. then it needs to be now!!
This is the second book in Rachel Yoldi's War of the Old Gods series. Book one, Lady Nightmare, is absolutely amazing.. but Shadewitch steals the show and will leave you begging for more.
Keres, our beautifully broken FMC, continues on her journey of healing while still desperately trying to escape her past.
So many questions from book one are answered and truths are revealed... only for you to formulate so many more questions and theories as this story continues to unfold.
The slow-burn romance is.. just wow. Perfect. (No spoilers here.)
The emotional damage... is actually emotional devastation. Prepare now.
The superb world building continues and the magic system, political scheming, and secrets will have you saying "one more chapter" again and again.
I can not wait to see Keres' story continue!
If this isn't already on your tbr, on your shelf, or in your kindle.. then it needs to be now!!
October 18, 2025
What. A. Story.
Shadow Mommy ✔️
Badass FMC ✔️
Witches ✔️
Romantasy ✔️
Incredible World Building ✔️
I feel like I have been saying this a lot but “Shadewitch” is an ARC I feel so lucky to have received. I am not okay. This is one of those series that need to find traction in the book community because it is just that good. It is one of those stories that breaks you apart but you’re somehow happy about it. It’s love and it’s loss and it’s gut-wrenching and it’s friendship. I already know this is a book I wish I could read again for the first time. Rachel M. Yoldi. Thank you for making this world come alive.
But seriously, I’m not sure how I’ve gotten so lucky with some of the ARC’s I’ve received but dang, am I grateful!
Shadow Mommy ✔️
Badass FMC ✔️
Witches ✔️
Romantasy ✔️
Incredible World Building ✔️
I feel like I have been saying this a lot but “Shadewitch” is an ARC I feel so lucky to have received. I am not okay. This is one of those series that need to find traction in the book community because it is just that good. It is one of those stories that breaks you apart but you’re somehow happy about it. It’s love and it’s loss and it’s gut-wrenching and it’s friendship. I already know this is a book I wish I could read again for the first time. Rachel M. Yoldi. Thank you for making this world come alive.
But seriously, I’m not sure how I’ve gotten so lucky with some of the ARC’s I’ve received but dang, am I grateful!
September 22, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Rachel, girl, this was such a gut wrenching, emotional rollercoaster of a book. I loved book 1, Lady Nightmare, but this left me loss of words. I felt that this book built on so much more into Keres’ story. Discovering more about her past just made so much more sense, and I really felt how emotional she was. The continued world building kept me hooked, and immersed me into Keres’ world, not wanting it to end.
I don’t think I have been so anxious waiting for the next book to be released, Rachel. You poured your heart and soul onto every page, and I applaud you for that 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Rachel, girl, this was such a gut wrenching, emotional rollercoaster of a book. I loved book 1, Lady Nightmare, but this left me loss of words. I felt that this book built on so much more into Keres’ story. Discovering more about her past just made so much more sense, and I really felt how emotional she was. The continued world building kept me hooked, and immersed me into Keres’ world, not wanting it to end.
I don’t think I have been so anxious waiting for the next book to be released, Rachel. You poured your heart and soul onto every page, and I applaud you for that 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
October 20, 2025
Non spoiler review:
Received an ARC for an honest review.
Rachel has done it again!
The War of the Old Gods has quickly become one of my fave series.
Shadewitch was such a great follow up to Lady Nightmare and picked up where it left off. I was on the edge of my seat.
I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again, I absolutely love the FMC. She is extremely badass and the plot of Shadewitch is so tantalizing & fresh. The ending was !!!!!!!!!! I definitely am looking forward to a re read in my future. Definitely add this to your October TBR and give it some love on release day! 10.28.2025 🖤 happy reading witches!
Received an ARC for an honest review.
Rachel has done it again!
The War of the Old Gods has quickly become one of my fave series.
Shadewitch was such a great follow up to Lady Nightmare and picked up where it left off. I was on the edge of my seat.
I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again, I absolutely love the FMC. She is extremely badass and the plot of Shadewitch is so tantalizing & fresh. The ending was !!!!!!!!!! I definitely am looking forward to a re read in my future. Definitely add this to your October TBR and give it some love on release day! 10.28.2025 🖤 happy reading witches!
October 26, 2025
I love how much Keres has grown, and opening up a little bit to people she trusts. The dual pov was amazing to learn about all the different characters and how they view the world.
the first book left us with a massive cliffhanger, but this book picks up right where it was left. But be prepared for the tissues at the ending 🥲 I cannot wait to read book 3 Thank you for the arc read❤️
if you need something new to read definitely pick up war of the old gods series, you will not be disappointed
🖤Multiple pov
🔥Shadow mummy
🖤Awakening power
🔥Stalker trope
🖤Pining
🔥Myths and legends
🖤Secrets revealed
the first book left us with a massive cliffhanger, but this book picks up right where it was left. But be prepared for the tissues at the ending 🥲 I cannot wait to read book 3 Thank you for the arc read❤️
if you need something new to read definitely pick up war of the old gods series, you will not be disappointed
🖤Multiple pov
🔥Shadow mummy
🖤Awakening power
🔥Stalker trope
🖤Pining
🔥Myths and legends
🖤Secrets revealed
September 22, 2025
Shadewitch was such an exciting ride! It took me through so many emotions from false sense of security, found family, understanding emotions and power, to truly knowing who is your ally. While the author does not center the story around spice, the spice enhances the storyline and allows you to understand Keres’ mindset. Keres definitely finds herself split between duty, family, love, and friendship.. this dynamic kept me on edge!! I loved the departure from the initial world building to the unveiling of new characters and more history. I can’t wait for book 3!!
October 14, 2025
This book picks up right where it left off in the last book. A powered FMC that is a badass with a very trouble past. With the help of her friends Geoff, Hez, and Eshe, they are trying to help keres find out more of her past. She has trouble trusting others. And when it comes to alaster and his high priestess, even I wander I’d be can be trusted. The way this book ended had me wanting to be curled up into a ball. I hope there are answers with book three.
October 17, 2025
Arc review! This was a crazy ride of a read. I went through every emotion possible and was HOOKED. I read the entire book in a week because I needed to know what would happen next. The cliff hanger at the end is brutallll so I'm desperately waiting for the next book in the series. The entire cast of characters was so fun but I did get confused on who was who at times. I am so invested in the FMC. I loveee her vibe. I also am soooo obsessed with little Geoff 🥹
October 11, 2025
Disclaimer: I was gifted this ARC for review
Continuation from Lady Nightmare. This is not a standalone.
It jumps right in the storyline and I did not expect this to be just as consuming as book 1.
I am honored to read these as an ARC.
If you love kingdoms and magic and complex characters this is for you
Continuation from Lady Nightmare. This is not a standalone.
It jumps right in the storyline and I did not expect this to be just as consuming as book 1.
I am honored to read these as an ARC.
If you love kingdoms and magic and complex characters this is for you
October 17, 2025
I enjoyed this book way more than the first! I was use to the writing and world building that seemed to take me awhile to grasp in the first book so reading the second was easier to follow along. And what an ending?! Great read for the romantasy lovers.
I received an ARC free copy for an honest review.
I received an ARC free copy for an honest review.
November 6, 2025
What a story!! The book continues right where Lady Nightmare ends. I really enjoyed how the story unfolded and we got to learn more about the characters we got to know in the first book. There were some plot twists that left you on the edge of your seat. I am anxiously awaiting book 3 to see how this story continues.
September 18, 2025
The second book in the series maintains the emotional resonance of the first, probing deeper into her past and furnishing answers to lingering queries. I am at a loss to articulate the impressive writing quality and character development exhibited in these books.
November 1, 2025
Lies.
Deception.
Friendship.
Love.
Loss.
The second instalment of the War of the Old Gods packs a hell of a punch.
Rachel really laid the groundwork of Lady Nightmare for Shadewitch. There are multiple POVs and a door to Keres’s past, where we find how she earns the infamous name of Noćni Mora.
The Lore, the Magick, and compelling characters really had me wanting more and more.
This author took me on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster, I am scarred....deeply...and I'm not sure how I am going to come back from it.
...enjoy the emotional damage, guys!👌
Deception.
Friendship.
Love.
Loss.
The second instalment of the War of the Old Gods packs a hell of a punch.
Rachel really laid the groundwork of Lady Nightmare for Shadewitch. There are multiple POVs and a door to Keres’s past, where we find how she earns the infamous name of Noćni Mora.
The Lore, the Magick, and compelling characters really had me wanting more and more.
This author took me on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster, I am scarred....deeply...and I'm not sure how I am going to come back from it.
...enjoy the emotional damage, guys!👌
November 4, 2025
Thank you to Rachel M. Yoldi for gracing me with an eARC of Shadewitch. These opinions are my own.
Holy. Gods.
Why?!???! What?!??? Ughhh?!??
Girl, you’re killing me.
Ok man this is the second book in the War of the Old Gods series.
I’m sobbing. I’m done.
What is happening???
There’s so much happening!! Secrets. Betrayals. Politics. Witches. Demons. Others.
Things have come to light and we don’t know how to deal, things are darker than we even knew! We. Trust. No. One.
There’s some spice but plot forward! It’s dark so check your triggers!
Guys. Please read this and then let’s chat cuz I need to decipher all of what just happened!!!
#waroftheoldgods #shadewitch #shadows #witches #others
Holy. Gods.
Why?!???! What?!??? Ughhh?!??
Girl, you’re killing me.
Ok man this is the second book in the War of the Old Gods series.
I’m sobbing. I’m done.
What is happening???
There’s so much happening!! Secrets. Betrayals. Politics. Witches. Demons. Others.
Things have come to light and we don’t know how to deal, things are darker than we even knew! We. Trust. No. One.
There’s some spice but plot forward! It’s dark so check your triggers!
Guys. Please read this and then let’s chat cuz I need to decipher all of what just happened!!!
#waroftheoldgods #shadewitch #shadows #witches #others
November 5, 2025
🖤 Shadow Mommy
🤫 Secrets Revealed
🔫 War Is Coming
😭 Devastation Awaits
📚 Street Team Member
“Now, is this a coffee conversation, a whiskey conversation, or a ‘tell me their full name and I’ll hex their ass and put them in a freezer’ conversation?”
“Her power pulsed beneath her skin, contained within this flesh she still had not quite gotten used to. A pretty little prison made of skin and bones.”
“There was something holy in her heartbreak, something pure and real in a world that had lied to both of them again and again.”
I love being devastated by books, but damn it Rachel! I can’t even - I feel like she literally punched me right in the heart. Just sobbing over here. No big deal. Ugh…
I don’t want to give away too much of what is to come, but war is rearing its ugly head. No one is safe and it’s time to choose where your loyalties lie. Rachel literally dropped an atom bomb at the end, so now I don’t know! I just don’t know!
Do I want some malicious and cold-blooded revenge?! YES I DO! I want to see a certain character absolutely unhinged! My predictions are that this is only going to get bloodier and uglier as we go, so if we’re going to war… LET’S GO!!!
🤫 Secrets Revealed
🔫 War Is Coming
😭 Devastation Awaits
📚 Street Team Member
“Now, is this a coffee conversation, a whiskey conversation, or a ‘tell me their full name and I’ll hex their ass and put them in a freezer’ conversation?”
“Her power pulsed beneath her skin, contained within this flesh she still had not quite gotten used to. A pretty little prison made of skin and bones.”
“There was something holy in her heartbreak, something pure and real in a world that had lied to both of them again and again.”
I love being devastated by books, but damn it Rachel! I can’t even - I feel like she literally punched me right in the heart. Just sobbing over here. No big deal. Ugh…
I don’t want to give away too much of what is to come, but war is rearing its ugly head. No one is safe and it’s time to choose where your loyalties lie. Rachel literally dropped an atom bomb at the end, so now I don’t know! I just don’t know!
Do I want some malicious and cold-blooded revenge?! YES I DO! I want to see a certain character absolutely unhinged! My predictions are that this is only going to get bloodier and uglier as we go, so if we’re going to war… LET’S GO!!!
November 11, 2025
I take back what I said about the beauty of being on an ARC team. Like I mentioned in Lady Nightmare, the real tragedy is finishing Shadwitch and realizing I have to wait even longer for what’s next 🥲
Book two delivers everything I hoped for and more. It fills in the spaces that Lady Nightmare left open while expanding on the heavy, intricate world in all the right ways. The payoff for all that world building in book one is so satisfying. The tension, the magic, the shadows; they all come alive here.
Getting to peel back more layers of Keres’s past was easily my favorite part. Her pain, her choices, and the way her magic mirrors the chaos within her hit even harder this time. You will not get every answer, but that mystery is what makes this series so addictive. It keeps you chasing the truth in the dark.
It is rare for a story to reach in and stay with me long after I have closed the book. This one did. I did not just read Keres’s emotions, I felt them. The heartbreak, the anger, the quiet strength that lives in her shadows.
Thank you, Rachel Yoldi, for crafting a story that is as haunting as it is beautiful and for the emotional baggage I will be unpacking until book three.
Book two delivers everything I hoped for and more. It fills in the spaces that Lady Nightmare left open while expanding on the heavy, intricate world in all the right ways. The payoff for all that world building in book one is so satisfying. The tension, the magic, the shadows; they all come alive here.
Getting to peel back more layers of Keres’s past was easily my favorite part. Her pain, her choices, and the way her magic mirrors the chaos within her hit even harder this time. You will not get every answer, but that mystery is what makes this series so addictive. It keeps you chasing the truth in the dark.
It is rare for a story to reach in and stay with me long after I have closed the book. This one did. I did not just read Keres’s emotions, I felt them. The heartbreak, the anger, the quiet strength that lives in her shadows.
Thank you, Rachel Yoldi, for crafting a story that is as haunting as it is beautiful and for the emotional baggage I will be unpacking until book three.
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