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To Dwell in Shadows: A Shadows of Aurelia Novel
Samael and Selene’s journey continues into the sinister depths of the Underworld, where Sam’s search for redemption becomes a battle between duty and desire.
When Selene left her dull life in the human world to be with her demon mate, she was determined to thrive on her own terms. As a recovering people-pleaser, Selene was ready to build a life with Samael in the realm of Aurelia, free from the expectations of others. Yet, she soon realizes that being the fated mate of a demon comes with more than passion, as a trip to the Underworld forces her to question everything she knows about herself… and her abilities.
After decades of loneliness, Samael is ready to heal from his traumatic past. With Selene at his side, he is certain that a reunion with his parents in the Underworld will bring only joy and closure. Although his birthright as prince carries responsibilities, he’s not interested in the web of dark politics that permeate his father’s royal court. But untangling himself from the ambitions of his parents proves more difficult than he thought, especially when they want to strip him of all that he gained in Aurelia—including Selene.
Sam and Selene defied the odds to be together, but can they stay true to themselves in a realm of chaos? Bridging the gap between what was and what’s to come, this story races toward a breathtaking cliffhanger that will change everything.
Content This book contains explicit sexual content, violence, mentions of sexual assault (not on page, not main characters), implied animal neglect, and a cliffhanger ending.
When Selene left her dull life in the human world to be with her demon mate, she was determined to thrive on her own terms. As a recovering people-pleaser, Selene was ready to build a life with Samael in the realm of Aurelia, free from the expectations of others. Yet, she soon realizes that being the fated mate of a demon comes with more than passion, as a trip to the Underworld forces her to question everything she knows about herself… and her abilities.
After decades of loneliness, Samael is ready to heal from his traumatic past. With Selene at his side, he is certain that a reunion with his parents in the Underworld will bring only joy and closure. Although his birthright as prince carries responsibilities, he’s not interested in the web of dark politics that permeate his father’s royal court. But untangling himself from the ambitions of his parents proves more difficult than he thought, especially when they want to strip him of all that he gained in Aurelia—including Selene.
Sam and Selene defied the odds to be together, but can they stay true to themselves in a realm of chaos? Bridging the gap between what was and what’s to come, this story races toward a breathtaking cliffhanger that will change everything.
Content This book contains explicit sexual content, violence, mentions of sexual assault (not on page, not main characters), implied animal neglect, and a cliffhanger ending.
Audible Audio
Published October 22, 2025
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About the author
Avalon Griffin
6 books74 followersAvalon Griffin is an indie author who writes fantasy romance with unique characters, far-away settings, and a healthy dose of heat. She is the author of the novel Unbound by Shadows, and the short story, The Vampire's Library, which was published in Once Upon a Book Club's 2024 Book-Club-Mas anthology. When not writing, she can be found traveling the globe in search of kitschy roadside attractions, off-beat museums, and cryptozoology legends. She lives in Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband and a crew of formerly feral cats.
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
November 10, 2025
Rating: 5/5
I received the audio for my honest opinion
Once again, Aileen Bishop absolutely nails the narration for this book. I loved her performance in book one, and I was thrilled to hear she would be narrating this installment as well. Aileen has an incredible ability to bring characters to life with just the right emotions and pitch, and listening to Sam and Selene’s story really made the underworld vivid in my mind. Now, if we could just get book three… that cliffhanger was brutal!
This is book two of Samael and Selene’s story, and it’s just as amazing—if not better—than the first. In this installment, the couple journeys to the underworld to meet Sam’s parents, but, of course, the underworld has other plans. Without spoiling, readers will encounter both new and familiar characters—some immediately likable, others suspicious, and all wrapped up in the politics, scheming, and betrayals of the underworld. Sam’s parents assume he’ll rule the kingdom simply because he’s their son, but all he wants is a life with Selene. Selene is compassionate, nurturing, and fierce, showing that she’s every bit Sam’s equal when it comes to family and love.
The story continues to explore childhood trauma, grief, pain, and the struggle to let go of what cannot be controlled. Griffin allows us to see Sam and Selene individually, deepening our understanding of their emotions and growth while still highlighting their unbreakable bond. The character development in this book is phenomenal, and I particularly adored the hellhounds—they were such a fun addition!
The pacing is perfect for a book two: fast enough to keep you turning pages, but with slower moments that allow the story to breathe. Griffin’s attention to detail—from the smallest moments to major plot points—is impeccable, and her talent for creating characters you love to hate (and then root for) is unmatched. I cannot wait for the audio release, which I’m confident will be spectacular.
I want to thank Avalon Griffin for letting me be part of her ARC team and for the opportunity to review this book & audio
I received the audio for my honest opinion
Once again, Aileen Bishop absolutely nails the narration for this book. I loved her performance in book one, and I was thrilled to hear she would be narrating this installment as well. Aileen has an incredible ability to bring characters to life with just the right emotions and pitch, and listening to Sam and Selene’s story really made the underworld vivid in my mind. Now, if we could just get book three… that cliffhanger was brutal!
This is book two of Samael and Selene’s story, and it’s just as amazing—if not better—than the first. In this installment, the couple journeys to the underworld to meet Sam’s parents, but, of course, the underworld has other plans. Without spoiling, readers will encounter both new and familiar characters—some immediately likable, others suspicious, and all wrapped up in the politics, scheming, and betrayals of the underworld. Sam’s parents assume he’ll rule the kingdom simply because he’s their son, but all he wants is a life with Selene. Selene is compassionate, nurturing, and fierce, showing that she’s every bit Sam’s equal when it comes to family and love.
The story continues to explore childhood trauma, grief, pain, and the struggle to let go of what cannot be controlled. Griffin allows us to see Sam and Selene individually, deepening our understanding of their emotions and growth while still highlighting their unbreakable bond. The character development in this book is phenomenal, and I particularly adored the hellhounds—they were such a fun addition!
The pacing is perfect for a book two: fast enough to keep you turning pages, but with slower moments that allow the story to breathe. Griffin’s attention to detail—from the smallest moments to major plot points—is impeccable, and her talent for creating characters you love to hate (and then root for) is unmatched. I cannot wait for the audio release, which I’m confident will be spectacular.
I want to thank Avalon Griffin for letting me be part of her ARC team and for the opportunity to review this book & audio
November 1, 2025
I had the privilege of an advanced listener copy listener copy of this story! I had already read To Dwell in Shadows but listening brought it to life even more! Aileen Bishop does an amazing job with her inflection and changing tone for certain characters. I loved being able to listen to Sam and Selene’s journey to the underworld! I neeeeeed the next installment already though!!!
October 29, 2025
I got an ARC for the audiobook, and since I have already read the book, I wanted to focus on listening to the narrator. I loved the delivery, the soundtrack was barely noticeable, which was perfect. amazing audiobook!
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews